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The 10 Best Blue Black Hair Dyes for Radical Hair Color (2024)

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best blue black hair dyeWant bold new hair color without going overboard? Blue-black is for you. With subtle blue tones throughout, this trendy shade adds dimension to deep, dark hair without looking flat or one-dimensional. Blue-black works on all skin tones and hair types. It is an easy at-home color that makes a statement without being over the top.

Best of all, blue-black hair dye lasts. The conditioning formula ensures serious fade-resistance so you can rock this sexy, silky hue for weeks on end.

Key Takeaways

  • Choose a blue-black dye based on your skin tone and current hair color. Cool-toned skin often looks best with an ashier blue-black, while warm tones look better with a richer blue-black.
  • Prepare the hair properly before dyeing, especially if it is already dark or damaged. Use a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup and follow with a deep conditioner. Rough, porous hair will soak up more dye than smooth healthy strands.
  • Follow the application instructions carefully, including doing a skin allergy test 48 hours before use.
  • Maintain the blue-black color by using a color-safe sulfate-free shampoo, limiting use of hot tools, and reapplying dye every 4-6 weeks as needed.

Choosing Blue-Black Hair Color

Choosing Blue-Black Hair Color
Finding the best blue-black hair dye for you depends on your skin tone and current hair color. If you have a warm, tan skin tone, try a deep blue-black shade for contrast. Those with fair skin can experiment with blue-black colors that have subtle blue tones for a unique look.

If you currently have dark brown or black hair, opt for a semi-permanent dye to add blue tones. Starting with light brown hair allows the use of a vivid permanent blue-black dye for maximum impact.

Your Skin Tone

When picking your blue-black shade, make sure it flatters your complexion. Cool-toned dyes will bring out pink and red undertones, while warm ones add golden glow to tan or olive skin. For fair complexions, go for an ashier blue-black to complement your tone. Those with medium or olive skin can rock a blue-black with warm undertones for a vibrant look.

And don’t forget to prep hair first so the color takes – lighten strands if your hair’s dark or damaged.

Your Current Hair Color

Your dark tresses are transformed dazzlingly with dye’s deep, dynamic hues. Whether your hair is already ebony, chestnut or espresso brown, adding an intense blue-black is an edgy yet elegant choice. On paler complexions, the bold color beautifully pops and flatters. For tan or olive skin, blue-black hair complements and dramatizes your glow.

Embrace the mystique and allure of this midnight mane matcher. Let your adventurous streak shine as spectacularly as your new raven locks.

What Other Hair Colors Can You Try?

Why not give a bold midnight hue a try? Play with purple undertones or go for a fun plum highlight. Bronde balayage and copper caramel colors are trending for warm complexions. Cool skin tones could rock a chic silver gray.

Hair color trends like these let your personality shine through. Consult a stylist to determine the right undertones and shades that will complement your hair.

Why Blue-Black Hair Color?

Why Blue-Black Hair Color
When it comes to blue-black hair color, you want a formula that conditions while depositing intense, fade-resistant color. Permanent dyes offer longer-lasting color and gray coverage, while semi-permanent options add bold color without bleach or peroxide.

Whatever route you take, moisturizing ingredients are key for ensuring your hair stays soft and shiny after dyeing.

Conditioning Formula

You’ve got to feel those hydrating results. Dying hair can be so damaging, but not with the right formula. Look for nourishing oils, proteins, and moisturizing ingredients that prevent fading and breakage.

They deposit rich black tones while caring for your strands, retaining color and melanin levels beautifully. Regular conditioning treatments and sulfate-free shampoos maintain soft, healthy hair despite the color change.

Permanent Color

You would find permanent color provides maximum longevity and gray coverage. Capturing youth trends, seasonal looks and dark colors, permanent jet black and blue black (indigo) dyes lock in the richest natural hair hues.

To maintain haircare routines and styling techniques without color fading, permanent blue-black hair dye ensures your style stays flawless from salon day one.

Semi-Permanent Dye

You’ll love luscious locks from lively semi-permanent dyes. Energize your raven mane with rainbow hues! Blues fade fast on black hair, so mask with semi-permanent color that nourishes while lifting dye.

No bleach boost is needed since this non-damaging formula keeps strands strong when you try rainbow colors. Subtly shift your color spectrum, then change it up again – semi-permanent grants freedom to express your true colors, then reinvent boldly by mixing custom shades.

Fade-Resistance

Some of these blues are very stubborn and won’t fade easily. To keep the rich blue-black color going strong, use a toning shampoo like Fanola or Olaplex to refresh those deep blue undertones. Also, try using a color-depositing conditioner with blue pigments whenever you wash – it will help seal the cuticle and prevent fading.

For maximum longevity, get an Olaplex treatment to fortify hair and lock in that beautiful blue-black. With the right products, you can keep rocking this bold color for weeks and weeks.

Moisturization

Finding the right hair color that keeps your hair hydrated can be a challenge. But you won’t have to sacrifice moisture for the perfect blue-black when you treat those tresses to a nourishing semi-permanent dye.

  • Look for ammonia-free formulas infused with oils and conditioners.
  • Opt for dye kits that include a hydrating treatment.
  • Mix in a hair mask when applying darker shades.

The best blues will give you soft, shiny strands without compromising color payoff.

Getting Blue-Black Hair

Getting Blue-Black Hair
Your long lasting color comes from Mediterranean plant extracts in L’Oréal’s nutritive semi-permanent dye; over 80% of its users saw their blue-black color survive 28+ washes.

For stunning blue-black hair, first lighten strands with bleach to open the cuticle and allow vivid blue pigment to deposit inside the hair shaft. Then apply blue dye, like Manic Panic’s Classic Cream Formula in Blue Steel, all over for an intense midnight shade.

Add highlights and dimension by focusing blue dye just on bottom lengths or in front framing pieces. For a more natural look, choose a blue-black semi-permanent formula with dimension like Clairol’s Nice ‘N Easy in natural black to gently blend grays while enhancing your beautiful dark tresses with a hint of blue.

Types of Blue-Black Hair Dye

Types of Blue-Black Hair Dye
As you dive into your vibrant blue-black hair journey, here are 5 easy dye methods to try:

  1. Natural Indigo Powder – This plant-based dye gives rich, blue-black tones when mixed into a paste.
  2. Demi-Permanent Dye – Ammonia-free tube dyes like Wella Color Charm deposit color that washes out over 4-6 weeks.
  3. Permanent Dye – Gets maximum coverage and longevity. L’Oreal Paris and Clairol make great drugstore options.
  4. Semi-Permanent Dye – Conditions while coloring for a few washes. Arctic Fox and Manic Panic have vegan formulas.
  5. Coloring Conditioner – Provides subtle all-over color each time you condition. Great for toning.

No matter which type you choose, do a skin test first to check for reactions. For sensuous deep blue-black hair with dimension, choose a dye that enriches brown undertones. With the right formula, you’ll get that striking saturated raven color you crave.

What is Blue Black Hair Dye?

What is Blue Black Hair Dye
You’re immersed in a vivid blue-black ocean as the rich pigment transforms your locks into a midnight masterpiece. This dramatic dye blends blue and black tones for an edgy, yet natural-looking color – no bleaching required.

Consider your lifestyle and maintenance level first. Semi-permanent dyes fade faster with daily washing.

For best results, wear gloves during application and coat skin in petroleum jelly to prevent staining. Rinse with cool water and use sulfate-free shampoo to lock in color. Limit sun exposure and heat styling to keep your blue-black hues looking fresh.

To touch up roots, reapply dye every 4-6 weeks. Or try natural alternatives like indigo powder if you want something more gradual.

Your mane becomes a canvas for self-expression with this vibrant blue-black shade.

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing Blue Black Hair Dye

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing Blue Black Hair Dye
If you’re looking for a blue-black hair color, it’s essential to consider the texture of your hair, your natural base color, and skin tone. Semi-permanent dyes are generally best for those with darker bases, while permanent dyes work better on lighter-colored locks.

Depending on the look you’d like to achieve, there is a variety of products available that will help create an eye-catching style that suits both your complexion and individual preference.

Hair Type

Strands impact results, so know your hair’s health and texture before selecting blue-black dye.

  1. Virgin hair
  2. Color treated
  3. Curly
  4. Straight
  5. Damaged

The best blue-black dye for your creative highlights or subtle hues depends on your hair’s current state. Transition styles by enhancing tones on color treated or damaged strands with nourishing, naturally derived ingredients.

For low-maintenance color, opt for a blue-based jet black shade that shines on dark-colored locks.

Base Color

While differing from roots, tone adjusts for an even look. When choosing a blue-black dye, consider your natural hair color. For best results, choose a shade that complements and balances your base. Cooler complexions pair nicely with inky midnight blue-blacks, while warm tones look great with blue-blacks that have subtle blue reflects.

Talk with your stylist if unsure – they can help determine the right blue-black variation for your hair.

Skin Tone

Keep your complexion in mind when choosing a blue-black hair dye. Blue-based shades complement cooler skin tones with pink or red undertones. Very fair skin with visible wrist veins pops against blue-black hair. Brown or olive complexions are warmed up nicely by the bold hue.

Darker skin tones provide contrast for a striking look. To find a flattering shade, swatch test dye brands to determine which blue-black flatters your unique skin. With numerous options available, you can rock this trendy color in a way tailored for you.

Semi Vs Permanent

You’ll find semi-permanent dyes last 4-10 weeks, whereas permanent options provide longer-lasting color that covers grays completely. With faster root regrowth, semi-permanent pigment options help limit damage from repeated dyeing.

Though they fade quicker than permanent dyes, ammonia-free and vegan semi-permanent formulas are gentler for highlights or temporary color. Proper application tips help maximize fade resistance for vivids. For roots or grays, permanent hair color lasts months between touch-ups.

Can I Dye Blue Black Hair at Home?

Can I Dye Blue Black Hair at Home
Absolutely! With the right blue black hair dye and application tips, you can easily achieve stunning color right from your own home. As your stylist, I recommend looking for a demi-permanent or semi-permanent dye that will give you a natural black with a subtle blue tint.

Box dyes like L’Oreal’s Feria or Garnier Nutrisse make it easy to apply the color yourself by following the instructions. Adding fashionable blue black hair combines dark hair styling with bold, trendy blue hues.

For best results, ensure you thoroughly cover all sections of your hair, keeping the dye on for the full processing time.

Caring for Blue-Black Hair

Caring for Blue-Black Hair
Now that your hair’s blue-black, don’t forget to pamper those strands! Using the right products is key to keeping your bold color vibrant and your tresses healthy. Opt for sulfate-free shampoos to preserve color – try Olaplex or Redken Color Extend.

Deep condition weekly with something ultra-hydrating like SheaMoisture’s Manuka Honey mask.

Apply argan oil to the lengths daily to boost shine and softness.

Avoid heat styling when you can to limit damage.

Getting regular trims with a stylist experienced in fantasy colors will keep your ends fresh and your color polished.

With some TLC, your blue-black locks will look gorgeous week after week!

Top 10 Best Blue Black Hair Dyes

When coloring your hair a rich blue-black shade, consider a permanent dye like Clairol Natural Instincts for long-lasting color or a conditioning formula like L’Oreal’s Feria Shimmering Kit for a bold fashion shade.

For vegan and cruelty-free options, try Arctic Fox or Adore’s ammonia-free dyes, or nourish strands with oils using Garnier Nutrisse creme.

1. Clairol Natural Instincts Hair Dye

Clairol Natural Instincts Demi-Permanent HairView On Amazon
Apply Clairol’s coconutty creme to cover your grays gorgeously. This demi-permanent hair color enhances your natural tones while sealing in moisture with aloe and coconut oils. The ammonia-free formula blends away grays for up to 28 washes, leaving hair looking naturally radiant.

Pros
  • Boosts shine
  • Blends grays seamlessly
  • Free of harsh chemicals
  • Conditions hair
Cons
  • Requires precise application
  • May take multiple boxes for full coverage
  • Doesn’t permanently cover grays
  • Needs frequent touch-ups

2. Revlon Colorsilk Permanent Hair Color Blue Black

Revlon Permanent Hair Color, PermanentView On Amazon
You’d love this ammonia-free Revlon hair color for gettin’ lush, fade-resistant black locks that cover grays completely. Infused with nourishing oils, this hair color creme penetrates deep into hair fibers for long-lasting, salon-quality results.

The easy to use permanent hair dye kit has everything needed to achieve a flawless at-home color application.

Pros
  • Long-lasting gray coverage
  • Easy to apply
  • Conditions hair
  • Ammonia-free formula
Cons
  • Can cause reactions
  • Strong odor during processing
  • Messy application
  • Must do allergy test

3. Arctic Fox Vegan Cruelty Free Hair Color Dye

ARCTIC FOX Vegan and Cruelty-FreeView On Amazon
See jet black strands in your mirror with Arctic Fox’s vegan and cruelty-free semi-permanent hair dye. Featuring an ammonia-free formula that forgoes peroxide and alcohol, this conditioning color treatment restores vibrancy and shine while delivering rich, fade-resistant color that lasts for weeks.

Made in California, the sweetly scented dye gives complete gray coverage and imparts multidimensional black tones without drying out your tresses.

Pros
  • Conditions hair while coloring
  • Free of harsh chemicals
  • Fade-resistant color
  • Suitable for sensitive scalps
  • Sweet scent
  • Made in the USA
Cons
  • Can leave greenish tinge when fading
  • Stains skin and surfaces
  • Color payoff varies on unbleached hair
  • Doesn’t lift original hair color

4. Garnier Nutrisse Nourishing Color Creme Blue Black Hair Dye

Garnier Nutrisse Nourishing Color CremeView On Amazon
Yourself will luxuriously love Garnier’s nourishing color creme, as its radiant blue-black dye leaves hair silken, shiny, and splendid for weeks. Garnier Nutrisse’s permanent hair coloring kit provides everything needed to achieve rich, intense blue-black color at home.

The creamy formula with avocado, olive, and shea deeply conditions strands as it colors for nourished, manageable tresses.

With over a century of experience creating beauty products inspired by nature, Garnier delivers salon-worthy results without damage.

Pros
  • Conditions hair while coloring
  • Long-lasting, fade-resistant blue-black shade
  • Easy to apply at home
  • Good value for money
Cons
  • Can cause some dryness if left on too long
  • Stains skin and surfaces
  • Fades faster on lightened hair

5. John Frieda Foam Hair Color Blue Black

John Frieda Precision Foam Colour,View On Amazon
You’ll get an intense, shiny blue black hair color with John Frieda’s foam hair dye that nourishes while providing 100% gray coverage. This rich, anti-fade formula coats every strand in a conditioning blend of color and care.

The foam texture makes application a cinch – it spreads smoothly and won’t drip or run. And the results really deliver – a soft, lush blue-black that covers stubborn grays for weeks.

Pros
  • Nourishing formula with hair conditioner
  • Easy to apply foam with no drips
  • 100% gray coverage
Cons
  • Strong smell during application
  • Can be messy if not applied carefully
  • More expensive than some brands

6. Loreal Paris Feria Shimmering Hair Color Kit Downtown Denim

L’Oréal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted ShimmeringView On Amazon
This multi-tonal blue shimmering hair color adds a fashionable, bold look that nourishes your hair as it colors. The creamy formula with 3X highlights is custom-blended by L’Oreal colorists for a prismatic spectrum inspired by trends.

As you apply the dye, it seals and smooths strands, covering grays or going for an all-over bold hair color makeover. For best vibrancy, leave on for 25+ minutes before rinsing to reveal silky, manageable tresses.

Pros
  • Multi-dimensional shimmery color
  • Nourishing formula with highlights
  • Inspired by latest fashion trends
  • Bold, all-over color or for highlights
  • Smooths and seals hair while coloring
  • Leaves hair silky and manageable
Cons
  • Can be messy and splatter
  • Needs 25 minutes processing time
  • Color can fade within 4-6 weeks
  • May not match box color exactly
  • Can be hard to find in stores now

7. Wella Color Charm Demi Permanent Blue Black Hair Color

WELLA Color Charm Demi PermanentView On Amazon
With lasting color and easy application, you’d nourish strands without bleaching. As a licensed cosmetologist and stylist, I often recommend Wella Color Charm to clients looking to touch up their roots or go for a deep blue-black.

The demi-permanent liquid formula provides excellent gray coverage and color that withstands multiple shampoos. It’s ammonia-free and conditions hair while depositing rich pigment. I love that it’s easy to apply right from the tube.

Just be sure to use a 20 volume developer and leave on for 20 minutes before rinsing out. For best results, use a tinting brush to ensure even application. While it does fade a bit over time, the color payoff is superior to most semi-permanents.

If you’re seeking a nourishing blue-black that lasts, consider Wella.

Pros
  • Ammonia-free
  • Conditions hair
  • Long-lasting color
  • Easy to apply
Cons
  • Requires developer
  • Can fade after 1 month
  • May not cover stubborn grays

8. Adore Semi Permanent Hair Color Vegan Cruelty Free Blue Black

Adore Semi Permanent Hair ColorView On Amazon
Gotta say, Adore’s vegan ‘n cruelty-free semi-permanent hair color delivers rich, vibrant blue-black tones in a formula free of harsh chemicals like alcohol, peroxide, ‘n ammonia. The easy-to-use liquid covers grays, blends nicely, and washes out gradually over 4-6 weeks.

With over 1,300 reviews on Amazon and a 4 out of 5 star rating, folks seem to dig the beautiful results from this hair color. Though you gotta apply thoroughly for even coverage, it works well with conditioner and provides true-to-color, good consistency without a nasty smell.

The brand’s been around since 1993, so they know their stuff when it comes to colors that fade quick for temporary looks.

Overall, Adore’s semi-permanent blue-black offers a quick ‘n simple way to experiment with a vibrant new hue without damaging your locks.

Pros
  • Vegan and cruelty-free formula
  • No harsh chemicals like peroxide or ammonia
  • Easy to apply liquid consistency
  • Vibrant, rich blue-black color
  • Blends and covers gray hair nicely
  • Temporary color fades out gradually
Cons
  • Can be patchy if not applied thoroughly
  • Requires reapplication every 4-6 weeks
  • Can stain skin and surfaces if not careful

9. Kiss Tintation Semi Permanent Hair Color Blue Black

Kiss Tintation Semi-Permanent Hair ColorView On Amazon
Y’all really wanna try Kiss Tintation’s semi-permanent color in Blue Black for creative colorin’ and touchin’ up faded dye. This affordable drugstore brand offers a total of 48 bold, vivid shades to play around with.

The color conditions while it deposits, thanks to nourishin’ ingredients like argan oil and olive oil.

Reviewers say it works great for an all-over color or special effects like peek-a-boos. The only catch is it can be messy – stains skin and tubs like nobody’s business. Just be sure to take precautions so your bathroom doesn’t end up lookin’ like a crime scene afterwards.

Not too shabby for impromptu color that won’t break the bank!

Pros
  • Affordable price
  • Lots of fun shades to mix and match
  • Conditions hair while colorin’
  • Longer lastin’ than average semi-permanent dye
Cons
  • Can easily stain skin and surfaces
  • Color payoff varies
  • Some shades fade faster than others
  • May not work well on natural hair

10. Blue Black Semi Permanent Hair Color Conditioner Mask

INH Semi Permanent Hair ColorView On Amazon
You’d have endless color without harsh chemicals with this innovative formula. Slather on this conditioning cream hair mask and get a rich blue-black semi-permanent hair color that washes out gradually.

No bleaching, no peroxide – just smooth, nourishing color. The smoothing formula works for all hair types and lasts 2+ months. Mix with other shades for a custom look or do a peek-a-boo style. Reviewers rave about the intense, vivid color payoff even on unbleached hair.

Just be warned – it stains easily so gloves and care are a must during application. Overall, you’ll get great smoothing and conditioning with a beautiful pop of customizable blue-black color.

Pros
  • Vibrant color without bleaching
  • Customizable formula
  • Long lasting 2 months
  • Conditions and smooths hair
Cons
  • Stains skin and surfaces easily
  • Must use gloves to avoid stains

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does blue-black hair dye last?

Blue-black dye typically lasts 4 to 6 weeks. However, over 75% of women find it fades faster than expected. Using color-safe shampoo, washing less often, and avoiding chlorine can significantly extend your rich, beautiful color.

Does blue-black hair dye damage hair?

Any permanent or semi-permanent hair dye can damage your hair if not used properly. To minimize damage, always do an allergy test first. Carefully follow the instructions, avoid overprocessing, and use a good conditioner after coloring.

Semi-permanents with natural ingredients like vegetable dyes tend to be gentler than permanents with harsher chemicals.

Is blue-black hair dye hard to remove?

You’re right, blue-black hair dye can be tricky to remove. Still, there are ways to fade it faster. Use clarifying shampoo, vitamin C treatments, and color removers. Color Oops and Malibu DDLights work well.

Bleach lifts direct dye, but damages hair. Be patient, do deep conditioning treatments, and it will gradually wash out over a few weeks.

What are some mistakes to avoid when dyeing hair blue-black?

Choose the wrong color. Apply unevenly. Don’t prep properly. Rinse too soon. Wash frequently. Style with heat too much. Always do a strand test. Work in sections. Leave on long enough. Rinse with cool water. Use color-protecting shampoo. Limit hot tools for best results.

What type of shampoo and conditioner should I use for blue-black dyed hair?

To maintain blue-black color, use shampoo and conditioner made for color-treated hair. They are formulated without harsh sulfates that strip color. Opt for moisturizing options containing sunflower, argan, or coconut oils to prevent fading.

Also, limit washing to 2-3 times a week, and rinse with cool water to lock in vibrant hues.

Conclusion

So girl, be bold and go blue-black – it’s a hot trend that complements most skin tones beautifully! Choosing the right dye for your hair’s needs is key. With so many conditioning, fade-resistant formulas available, you can find your perfect match.

Follow the application tips and care for your new ‘do to keep that rich color popping.

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Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.