If you’re looking for a way to switch up your look and lighten your dark locks, hair dye might be a great option for you. However, finding the best hair dye to lighten dark hair can be a challenge. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which product is the right fit for you.
When considering which hair dye to use for lightening dark hair, it is important to consider factors such as your hair type, current hair color, and desired end result. It is also crucial to assess the health of your hair and ensure that you choose a product that will not cause undue damage or breakage.
To help you make a decision, ask yourself some key questions. Do you want a subtle change or a dramatic transformation? Do you prefer a natural or bold look? Are you willing to invest in a high-quality product, or do you prioritize affordability? Taking the time to consider your priorities and needs will help you narrow down your options and choose the best hair dye to lighten dark hair for your unique style.
10 Best Hair Dye To Lighten Dark Hair
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This product is ideal for vibrant and long-lasting hair color for individuals with dark hair, while also providing shine and softness.
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2
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This product is ideal for achieving a permanent ash blonde hair color with ultra lift technology.
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3
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This product is ideal for those looking to dye their hair a shimmering permanent smokey silver color.
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4
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This product is ideal for those looking to achieve a platinum blonde hair color that is nourishing and long-lasting.
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5
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This product is ideal for those looking to permanently dye their hair a golden brown color with nourishing benefits.
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6
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The product is ideal for people who want a permanent honey blonde hair color that provides moisture and contains keratin.
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7
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L'Oreal Paris hair dye is ideal for those looking for a fade-defying, shiny, and permanent dark blonde hair color.
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8
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Ideal for lightening and toning blonde hair, this travel kit is vegan, paraben-free, gluten-free, and cruelty-free.
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9
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The product is ideal for those looking for a fade-defying and shiny permanent hair color in an ultra-light ash brown shade.
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10
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The product is ideal for lightening hair naturally with chamomile extract.
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1. Intense Shine Black Hair Dye With Olive Oil

Introducing a high-care, permanent non-drip hair color designed specifically for African-American hair. This product boasts Color and Shine boosters, providing intense pigmentation and up to 100 percent gray coverage. The anti-drying creme gel formula is enriched with hydrating olive oil, ensuring your hair remains moisturized during the coloring process.
Looking for fast, vibrant results? Look no further than Go Intense. This product delivers perfectly balanced color dyes, providing intense, visible results on dark hair. Say goodbye to lackluster color and hello to a bold, vibrant look.
Softsheen-Carson offers an array of hair color products, from temporary to permanent and fade-resistant dyes to reviving colors. Choose from shampoo-in, spray, and conditioning color options – there's a product to suit every need.
At Softsheen-Carson, they believe that everyone should celebrate their unique looks and styles. That's why they offer an array of treatments, colors, and styling products for all hair types – whether your hair is curly, wavy, natural, relaxed, transitioning, or anything in between.
For over 110 years, Softsheen-Carson has been providing beauty to all consumers of African descent. Their products are innovative, tailor-made, and superior, specially designed to meet the unique needs of their customers. Trust in their expertise and experience and choose Softsheen-Carson for your hair care needs.
2. Clairol Nice'n Easy Ultra Lift Permanent Hair Dye, 11aa Ash Blonde Hair Color, 1 Count

The Clairol Ultra Lift in the shade 11AA Ash Blonde is the perfect solution for those with dark hair looking for natural-looking, luminous color. With its unique formula, this hair color provides ultra lift and ultra care, lightening up to 3 levels without the use of bleach. The result is an anti-brass color that looks stunning on any skin tone.
One of the key features of this hair color is the conditioning aspect. Unlike other hair color products, the Clairol Ultra Lift has conditioners built into every step of the process. This ensures that your hair stays healthy and moisturized, even after the color treatment.
Whether you're looking to brighten up your natural hair color or want to try something new, the Clairol Ultra Lift in 11AA Ash Blonde is a great choice. With its ability to lift and lighten dark hair, you can achieve the perfect shade without having to worry about damaging your hair or ending up with a brassy color.
3. L'oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color Hair Dye, S1 Smokey Silver

Introducing the Multi-Faceted Permanent Hair Color by L'Oreal Paris, a groundbreaking product that promises to deliver stunning results. This revolutionary hair color features a shimmering smokey silver shade with 3X highlights, custom-blended by master colorists to provide intensified, brilliant color results.
The Nourishing Formula of this hair color is designed to seal and smooth hair, leaving it looking healthy, shiny, and never dull or flat. The kit includes a Conditioning Colour Crème, Conditioning Developer Crème, Aromatic Shimmer Serum, and Power Shimmer Conditioner.
The Feria line from L'Oreal Paris is known for Bold Shades that are inspired by cutting-edge fashion and the latest trends. The multi-tonal, shimmering colors come in a range of bold shades, from deepest blue blacks to platinum blondes to smokey silvers.
L'Oreal Paris is a leading total beauty care company based in Paris, offering a wide range of hair color products, including permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary hair dyes, root cover-up, anti-brass toners, and lightening systems. Whether you're looking to cover gray hair, highlight your natural hair color, or go bold with bright color, L'Oreal Paris has you covered.
As a total beauty care company, L'Oreal Paris is committed to providing innovative products and unique expertise from beauty experts in makeup, skin care, hair care, styling, and hair color. Trust in L'Oreal Paris for all your beauty needs.
4. Ultra-Light Platinum Hair Dye By Garnier

The Nutrisse Ultra Color PL2 Ultra Lightest Platinum (Mascarpone Crème) permanent hair color is the perfect choice for those who want to achieve a high-shine, intense platinum look without any brassiness. This lightening kit is capable of providing up to 8 levels of lift, even on dark bases, and is suitable for all hair textures, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of people.
This hair color is specially formulated with intensity-enhancing color boost technology, which means you can achieve bold, vibrant color in just one step, and it will last for up to 8 weeks. Additionally, the Nutrisse Ultra Color PL2 is enriched with a blend of triple fruit oils – avocado, olive, and shea – which provide nourishment to your hair while you color it.
If you have natural hair that falls between light brown and dark brown, this hair color is the perfect choice for you. The Nutrisse Ultra Color PL2 Ultra Lightest Platinum (Mascarpone Crème) has been designed to adapt to all hair textures, so you can be sure that it will work for you.
After coloring, you can lock in moisture and color with the after-color mask, which is infused with triple oils. This mask will leave your hair feeling smooth, silky, and protected against dryness.
5. Golden Spice Permanent Hair Dye By Garnier

Nutrisse Ultra Color B3 Golden Brown (Spiced Rum) Permanent Hair Color is a top-quality hair color that allows you to lighten dark hair up to 3 levels without any bleach. The ultra-reflective warm tones in this high lift shade are designed to provide long-lasting color that adapts to all hair textures.
This hair color is perfect for anyone with natural hair between medium brown and black. It is formulated with intensity-enhancing color boost technology and a blend of triple fruit oils – avocado, olive, and shea – to deliver bold and nourishing permanent hair color in just one step.
With Colorboost technology, you can achieve high-impact color that lasts up to 8 weeks. The after-color mask infused with triple oils locks in moisture and color, leaving your hair smooth, silky, and protected against dryness.
Nutrisse Ultra Color B3 Golden Brown (Spiced Rum) Permanent Hair Color is a top-of-the-line product that delivers excellent results. It is easy to use, and the results are stunning. If you're looking for a hair color that is nourishing, long-lasting, and vibrant, then this is the product for you.
6. Schwarzkopf Keratin Color, Color & Moisture Permanent Hair Color Cream, 9.0 Honey Blonde

The Color & Moisture hair dye boasts a deep nourishing effect, providing both moisture rich conditioning and long-lasting color. Infused with Macadamia Nut Oil, this hair dye is designed to pamper and nourish your hair.
Incorporating anti-breakage technology, this hair dye can help reduce breakage by up to 80% (vs. untreated hair), making it an excellent choice for those with delicate or brittle hair.
Suitable for all hair textures, including coily, curly, wavy, or straight hair, this hair dye is a versatile option for anyone looking to add some vibrant color to their locks.
Featuring K-Bond Plex, this hair dye is formulated to repair the inner hair structure and coat the hair surface after coloration, leaving your hair looking strong and healthy.
The Pre-color serum included in the box conditions your hair before coloring, ensuring a more even color result from root to tip.
It's important to note that for those with hair longer than shoulder length, it's recommended to use two boxes of Keratin Color hair dye to ensure full coverage.
7. Shiny Dark Blonde Hair Dye By L'oreal

Introducing the Superior Preference Permanent Hair Dye Kit, the ultimate solution for achieving gorgeous, fade-defying hair color with exceptional dimension. L'Oreal Paris has been setting the gold standard in hair dyes since 1973, and this kit is no exception. With over 50 different shades to choose from, you can find the perfect color for you, whether you want to go for a luminous red, a cool ash blond, or the deepest black.
The Superior Preference hair color kit is paired with Care Supreme Conditioner with Shine Serum, which helps maintain the color vibrancy while also providing silk and shine to your hair. This ensures that your hair looks vibrant and radiant for weeks to come.
L'Oreal Paris Hair Color comes in multiple formulations and styles to deliver long-lasting color that is sure to impress. From the fade-defying Superior Preference and the bold and stylish Feria to the gray coverage of Excellence Crème, there is a solution for everyone.
This long-lasting hair color kit provides a range of options for covering gray hair, highlighting, going bold with bright color, or even trying an ombre hair color. You can be sure that L'Oreal Paris hair color will provide you with beautiful and vibrant color that lasts.
At L'Oreal Paris, innovation is at the forefront of everything we do. We are a total beauty care company that combines the latest in technology with the highest in quality for the ultimate in hair color, hair care, hair style, skin care, and cosmetics. You can trust that with L'Oreal Paris, you are getting the best that the beauty industry has to offer.
8. Blondie's Must-Have: Tone & Light Kit

The Lighten and Tone Kit is the perfect solution for anyone who wants to add a few sun-kissed highlights or bring out their blonde side all year round. This kit includes products that are specifically designed to provide good vibes for your hair, and help keep your mane tame and healthy.
One of the best secrets of this kit is its ability to protect against frizz, humidity, UV oxidation, and dullness with its color-enriching regimen. This regimen is perfect for both natural and color-treated hair. To achieve an all-over lighten and brighten, simply spray the product throughout dry or damp hair before sun exposure. For sun-kissed highlights, spray onto select strands. However, it is recommended not to use the product more than once between hair washes.
The Lighten and Tone Kit is enriched with natural ingredients such as Costa Rican Pineapple and Meyer Lemon. These ingredients are known for their ability to maintain healthy locks, making the products vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free, and paraben-free. These products are guaranteed to be your favorite and will provide you with healthy, natural ingredients that you can trust.
The creators of this kit, who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun, are confident that you can trust them. They believe in making products that protect the ones you love, and when you make such products, they are better. Trust the Bum and try out the Lighten and Tone Kit for yourself. Make your hair look and feel amazing!
9. Shiny Ash Brown Hair Dye By L'oreal Paris

The Superior Preference Permanent Hair Dye Kit is the ultimate solution for anyone looking for fade-defying hair color with dimension. This hair dye kit contains a gel hair dye formula that produces vibrant and long-lasting hair color that is sure to turn heads. To help maintain color vibrancy and provide silk and shine, the kit also includes Care Supreme Conditioner with Shine Serum.
Superior Preference hair color kits have been the gold standard in hair dyes since 1973. With over 50 shades to choose from, you can find the perfect shade for you, whether it's luminous red, cool ash blond, or deepest black. This permanent hair color is perfect for anyone who wants to keep their hair color vibrant for longer periods.
L'Oreal Paris Hair Color comes in multiple formulations and styles to deliver long-lasting color, from fade-defying Superior Preference to bold, stylish Feria, and gray-coverage from Excellence Crème. This hair dye is formulated to last long and maintain its color vibrancy. The kit contains everything you need to achieve the perfect hair color, from the hair dye to the Care Supreme Conditioner with Shine Serum.
Get beautiful color from L'Oréal Paris hair color; permanent, semi-permanent, temporary hair color, and root cover up. You can cover gray hair, highlight, go bold with bright color or even try an ombre hair color. The possibilities are endless when it comes to L'Oreal Paris hair color.
L'Oreal Paris Innovation is a total beauty care company that combines the latest in technology with the highest in quality for the ultimate in hair color, hair care, hair style, skin care, and cosmetics. L'Oreal Paris is a trusted brand that is dedicated to providing the best quality products to its customers.
10. Camomila Intea Hair Lightener – Go Blonder Naturally With Chamomile Extract – 3.4 Oz (1 Pack)

The Natural Blonde hair color spray from Camomila Intea is an excellent option for those who want to achieve a honey blonde look all year round. This hair highlighting spray is made using Natural Chamomile Extract, which works wonders on hair and delivers amazing results. The premium formula used in this hair lightener spray contains no ammonia or parabens, making it a safer and more natural option for those who want to lighten their hair.
The application process for this hair lightener spray is quick and easy, thanks to the practical spray bottle that comes with it. All you have to do is apply a few spritzes of the product directly on your locks, rub them together, and run your fingers through your hair. Unlike complicated hair dyes that can be dangerous to use at home, this hair lightener spray is hassle-free and does not require any professional help.
One of the best things about this hair lightening spray is its progressive formula that allows you to experiment with different tones and locks. You can control the amount of product used based on the desired result and achieve a sunkissed look, balayage, or some random lighter highlights through your hair.
Apart from delivering excellent results, this hair lightener spray is also designed to keep your hair healthy and shiny. The formula is clinically-tested to counter violet pigmentation, ensuring that your blonde hair remains smooth and free of frizz. With this hair lightener spray, you can enjoy gentle haircare from the comfort of your home without worrying about hair damage or frizz.
Best Hair Dye To Lighten Dark Hair FAQs
Are there any natural hair dyes that can lighten dark hair?
Yes, there are natural hair dyes that can lighten dark hair to some extent, but the results may vary depending on the individual's hair type and color. Some of the most popular natural hair dyes that can lighten dark hair include lemon juice, chamomile tea, honey, cinnamon, and baking soda.
Lemon juice is a natural bleach that can lighten hair when exposed to sunlight. Chamomile tea can also help to lighten hair gradually when used as a rinse after shampooing. Honey, on the other hand, has natural hydrogen peroxide that can lighten hair over time. Cinnamon can also be used to lighten hair, but it may take several applications to see noticeable results. Lastly, baking soda can help to lighten hair by removing buildup and excess oil from the scalp.
It is important to note that natural hair dyes may not provide drastic results like chemical dyes and may require multiple applications to achieve the desired lightening effect. It is also recommended to do a patch test before applying any natural hair dye to avoid any allergic reactions or damage to the hair.
Can you recommend a hair dye that will lighten dark hair and also provide conditioning benefits?
Yes, I can recommend a hair dye that will lighten dark hair and also provide conditioning benefits. One of the best options for this is the Clairol Professional Soy4Plex Liquicolor in the shade of Ultra Light Ash Blonde. This hair dye is specially formulated to lift dark hair up to 4 levels while also providing conditioning benefits to the hair. The Soy4Plex technology in the dye contains a blend of soy protein, arginine, and vitamin E, which work together to nourish and strengthen the hair while coloring it. The result is not only a lighter shade but also healthier, shinier, and softer hair. It's important to note that lightening dark hair can be a challenging process, and it's always best to seek the help of a professional hairstylist to achieve the desired results while minimizing damage to the hair.
Can you recommend a hair dye that will lighten dark hair effectively?
Yes, there are several hair dyes available in the market that can lighten dark hair effectively. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of the hair dye depends on the original hair color and texture. For dark hair, it is recommended to use hair dyes that contain bleach or peroxide, as these chemicals can effectively lighten the hair.
One popular option is the L'Oreal Paris Super Blonde Creme Lightening Kit, which contains a high lift formula that can lighten hair up to 8 levels. Another great option is the Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color Nourishing Color Creme, which contains a triple oil blend to nourish and condition the hair while lightening it up to 4 levels.
It is important to follow the instructions on the hair dye carefully and perform a strand test before applying it to the entire head to avoid any adverse reactions. Additionally, it is recommended to use a deep conditioning treatment after lightening the hair to restore moisture and prevent damage.
How long does it take for a hair dye to lighten dark hair?
The time it takes for a hair dye to lighten dark hair can vary depending on a few factors, such as the color of the dye, the strength of the developer, and the starting shade of the hair. Generally, if you are using a high-lift dye with a 40-volume developer, you can expect to see some lightening in about 30 minutes. However, if you have very dark hair, it may take multiple rounds of dyeing to achieve the desired level of lightness.
It's important to keep in mind that lightening hair can be damaging, so it's crucial to follow the instructions on the dye carefully and take steps to keep your hair healthy, such as using a deep conditioning treatment regularly and avoiding excessive heat styling. Additionally, it's always a good idea to do a strand test before dyeing your entire head to ensure that you get the desired results without causing damage to your hair.
Is it possible to lighten dark hair without bleach using a hair dye?
Yes, it is possible to lighten dark hair without bleach using a hair dye. However, it is important to note that the results may not be as drastic or long-lasting as they would be with bleach. Hair dyes that are specifically formulated to lighten hair without bleach are often referred to as "high lift" dyes. These dyes contain a higher concentration of ammonia and peroxide, which work together to open up the hair cuticle and lighten the hair. However, it is important to choose a hair dye that is specifically formulated for dark hair, as lighter shades may not be effective. It is also important to follow the instructions on the packaging carefully and to perform a patch test before applying the dye to your entire head. Finally, it is important to keep in mind that repeated use of high lift dyes can damage the hair, so it is best to consult a professional stylist for advice on how to achieve your desired hair color in a safe and healthy way.
What are some tips for achieving the best results when lightening dark hair with a hair dye?
Lightening dark hair with hair dye can be a tricky process, but with the right approach, you can achieve the best results. Here are some tips to help you achieve the desired outcome:
1. Choose the right shade: The shade of hair dye you choose should be based on your natural hair color and the level of lightening you want. If you are unsure, it’s best to consult with a professional hair colorist.
2. Prepare your hair: Before applying the hair dye, ensure that your hair is clean and free of any styling products. It’s also important to protect your skin with petroleum jelly along your hairline, ears, and neck.
3. Use a high-quality hair dye: Using a high-quality hair dye will give you better results and reduce the risk of damage to your hair.
4. Follow the instructions: Always follow the instructions on the hair dye package carefully. Leaving the dye on for too long can result in damage to your hair, while not leaving it on long enough may not give you the desired lightening effect.
5. Take care of your hair: After lightening your hair, it’s important to take care of it by using a good quality shampoo and conditioner designed for colored hair. You may also want to consider using hair masks and oils to keep your hair healthy and shiny.
Remember, lightening dark hair with hair dye can be a complicated process, so it’s always best to consult with a professional hair colorist if you have any concerns or doubts.
What are the best hair dye colors to lighten dark brown or black hair?
When looking to lighten dark brown or black hair, there are a few hair dye colors that can achieve the desired result. One popular option is blonde, with shades ranging from light blonde to platinum. Another option is caramel or honey tones, which can add warmth to the hair while still lightening it. Light brown and ash brown are also good choices for a more subtle lightening effect.
It's important to note that when lightening dark hair, it's often necessary to bleach the hair first in order to achieve the desired color. This can cause damage to the hair, so it's important to use a high-quality bleach and follow up with a deep conditioning treatment.
Additionally, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional hairstylist before attempting to dye your hair at home. They can help determine the best course of action based on your hair type and desired outcome, and can ensure that the process is done safely and effectively.
What are the potential risks of lightening dark hair with a hair dye?
Lightening dark hair with hair dye can be a great way to switch up your look, but it's important to be aware of the potential risks involved. One of the biggest risks is hair damage. The chemicals in hair dye can weaken the hair and make it more prone to breakage and split ends. This is especially true if you're lightening your hair multiple shades or doing it frequently.
Another risk is that the color may not turn out the way you want it to. Depending on the color of your hair and the dye you use, you may end up with brassy or orange tones instead of the desired blonde or light brown. This can be difficult to correct and may require additional trips to the salon.
It's also important to be aware of the potential for allergic reactions to hair dye. Some people can develop rashes or other skin irritations from the chemicals in hair dye.
To minimize these risks, it's important to choose a high-quality hair dye and follow the instructions carefully. Consider doing a strand test first to see how the color will look on your hair, and always use a deep conditioning treatment afterwards to help repair any damage. If you're concerned about potential allergic reactions, consider a patch test before applying the dye to your entire head.
What is the best hair dye to lighten dark hair without causing damage?
When it comes to lightening dark hair without causing damage, it's important to choose a hair dye that is specifically designed for that purpose. One option to consider is a high-lift hair color, which can lighten hair up to four shades without the use of bleach. Another option is a hair dye that contains natural ingredients and is free of harsh chemicals, such as ammonia and peroxide. Look for products that contain nourishing ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and aloe vera to help protect your hair and keep it healthy. It's also a good idea to consult with a professional stylist to determine the best hair dye and technique for your unique hair type and color. Keep in mind that lightening dark hair can still cause some damage, so be sure to use a deep conditioning treatment regularly and avoid over-processing your hair.
Which brand has the best hair dye to lighten dark hair?
There are several brands that claim to have the best hair dye to lighten dark hair, but the effectiveness of the product can vary depending on the individual's hair type and the desired result. However, one brand that is highly recommended by hair professionals and users alike is L'Oreal Paris Excellence Creme Hair Color. This brand has a range of shades specifically designed to lighten dark hair, and it contains a triple protection system that helps to nourish and protect the hair during the coloring process. Additionally, the formula is easy to apply and provides long-lasting results that are true to the shade on the box. It is important to note that lightening dark hair can be a complex process and may require multiple applications or a visit to a professional stylist, but using a high-quality hair dye like L'Oreal Paris Excellence Creme can help to achieve the desired result with minimal damage to the hair.