Best Ammonia-Free Hair Dye of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 11, 2026

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Ammonia-free hair dye is a popular choice among those who want to color their hair without damaging it. Unlike traditional hair dyes that contain ammonia, these products are gentler on the hair and scalp. They are made with natural ingredients that are less harsh and have fewer side effects. Ammonia-free hair dyes come in a variety of shades and are suitable for all hair types. They are easy to use and provide long-lasting results that look natural. Whether you want to cover up gray hair or try a new color, ammonia-free hair dye is a great option for anyone who wants to keep their hair healthy and beautiful.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Garnier Olia 6.0 Light Brown Hair Dye Cover #TOP 1
Garnier Olia 6.0 Light Brown Hair Dye
ftb score rating icon 9.9
L’Oréal Paris Universal Nudes Hair Color Kit Cover #TOP 2
L’Oréal Paris Universal Nudes Hair Color Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color Cover #TOP 3
Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Ammonia-Free Hair Dye

#TOP 1

Garnier Olia 6.0 Light Brown Hair Dye

K1310000
6.0 Light Brown
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Garnier Olia 6.0 Light Brown Hair Dye Cover
Garnier Hair Color Olia Ammonia-Free Brilliant Color Oil-Rich Permanent Hair Dye, 6.0 Light Brown, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

The Garnier Olia Hair Color is a great choice if you want a natural-looking medium brown shade that lets your natural tones shine through. It covers gray hair fully, giving you a vibrant and long-lasting color suitable for all hair types. This hair dye is powered by 60% oils, including sunflower and camellia oils, which help the color penetrate deeply into your hair for lasting results without the harsh smell of ammonia. Plus, its vegan formula is free from ammonia, silicones, parabens, and phthalates, so it’s gentle on your hair while leaving it hydrated, silky, and up to three times shinier than untreated hair.

What We Like
100% gray coverage
Oil-powered formula
Ammonia-free
Vegan and cruelty-free
Hydrates and adds shine
#TOP 2

L’Oréal Paris Universal Nudes Hair Color Kit

0071249647240
1 Count (Pack of 1)
L’Oréal Paris Universal Nudes Hair Color Kit Cover
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Universal Nudes Permanent Hair Color, Ammonia Free Hair Dye for Gray Hair Coverage, 6N Natural Light Brown, 1 Hair Dye Kit

L’Oréal Universal Nudes Hair Dye is a gentle ammonia-free hair color that provides 100% gray coverage. The natural reflect in the dye enhances warm and cool tones, while the Pro-Keratin Complex protects and nourishes your hair during coloring. The kit includes a Caring Gentle Shampoo and Deep Conditioner with ceramides for scalp cleansing and hair nourishment. With L’Oréal Universal Nudes Hair Dye, you can cover grays, enhance your hair color, and enjoy a triple care color routine.

What We Like
Ammonia-free
100% gray coverage
Nourishing Pro-Keratin Complex
#TOP 3

Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color

JDFHFHD3717
1 Count
Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color Cover
Schwarzkopf Simply Color Permanent Hair Dye, 4.68 Chocolate Cherry, Long-Lasting with Nourishing Ingredients, No Ammonia or Silicone, All Hair Types

Schwarzkopf Simply Color is a gentle hair dye that provides vibrant colors without compromising the health of your hair. Its caring formula is dermatologist tested to be non-irritating to the skin, free from PPD, and PTD. The product's botanical oat milk, soy protein, and argan oil nourish your hair while providing up to 100% gray coverage with even color from root to tip. For those who want to extend their color, Schwarzkopf's Color Boost, an in-shower customizable color vibrancy booster, is also available.

What We Like
Gentle on scalp
Natural color results
Visibly healthy hair
Up 100% gray coverage
Color Boost available for extending color
#TOP 4

Garnier Hair Color Olia Ammonia-Free Permanent Hair Dye

653608
2.11 Platinum Black
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Garnier Hair Color Olia Ammonia-Free Permanent Hair Dye Cover
Garnier Hair Color Olia Ammonia-Free Brilliant Color Oil-Rich Permanent Hair Dye, 2.11 Platinum Black, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

Garnier Hair Color Olia Ammonia-Free Permanent Hair Dye is formulated with a unique combination of strong, ashy reflects for an intensely cool shade with platinum shine that provides 100% gray coverage. It is oil powered with no ammonia, made with a 60% oil blend with natural flower oils to help reverse roughness and dullness to deliver brilliant color and visibly healthier hair that's hydrated, silky, and up to 3x shinier. This hair dye is best for anyone with natural hair between medium brown and black. It is Ammonia Free, Paraben Free, Silicone Free and Phthalates Free, Leaping Bunny certified, Cruelty Free and Vegan.

What We Like
Oil powered with no ammonia
100% gray coverage and intensely cool shade with platinum shine
Ammonia Free, Paraben Free, Silicone Free, Phthalates Free, Leaping Bunny certified, Cruelty Free and Vegan
#TOP 5

Garnier Olia Hair Color, 4.0 Dark Brown, 2 Count

603084554775
4.0 Dark Brown
1 Count (Pack of 2)
Garnier Olia Hair Color, 4.0 Dark Brown, 2 Count Cover
Garnier Hair Color Olia Ammonia-Free Brilliant Color Oil-Rich Permanent Hair Dye, 4.0 Dark Brown, 2 Count (Packaging May Vary)

Garnier Hair Color Olia Ammonia-Free is a high-quality hair dye that provides 100% gray coverage, with a natural, dark brown one shade lighter than the darkest brown. It is best for anyone with natural hair between light brown and black. This ammonia-free permanent hair color is made with a 60% oil blend with natural flower oils to help reverse roughness and dullness, delivering brilliant color and visibly healthier hair that's hydrated, silky, and up to 3x shinier than uncolored, unwashed hair. It is also paraben, silicone, and phthalates free, and is cruelty-free and vegan.

What We Like
100% gray coverage
Oil-powered for healthier, shinier hair
Ammonia-free, Paraben-free, Silicone-free, and Phthalates-free
#TOP 6

Naturtint Permanent Hair Color - Ammonia Free, Vegan, Cruelty Free

NAT5NX45
Naturtint Permanent Hair Color - Ammonia Free, Vegan, Cruelty Free Cover
Naturtint 5N Light Chestnut Brown Permanent Hair Color (Pack of 1), Ammonia Free, Vegan, Cruelty Free, up to 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting Results (Packaging may vary)

Naturtint Permanent Hair Color offers better ingredients for better color and better you. It is free from harsh chemicals and enriched with nourishing plant ingredients for added softness and shine. With up to 100% gray coverage and 32 mixable shades to choose from, this hair dye delivers long-lasting, natural-looking results. Plus, it is vegan and cruelty-free, making it an ethical choice for conscious consumers.

What We Like
Free from harsh chemicals like ammonia, parabens, and sulfates
Enriched with nourishing plant ingredients for added softness and shine
Offers up to 100% gray coverage with long-lasting, natural-looking results
Comes in 32 mixable shades to choose from
Vegan and cruelty-free for conscious consumers
#TOP 7

L’Oreal Paris Excellence Universal Nudes Hair Color

0071249647233
5N Natural Brown
1 Count (Pack of 1)
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Universal Nudes Hair Color Cover
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Universal Nudes Permanent Hair Color, Ammonia Free Hair Dye for Gray Hair Coverage, 5N Natural Brown, 1 Hair Dye Kit

The L’Oreal Excellence Universal Nudes is a gentle, ammonia-free hair dye that covers gray hair completely, giving you a natural, permanent color without harsh chemicals. It enhances your hair’s tone with a unique blend that balances warm and cool shades, so your color looks vibrant and multi-dimensional. Enriched with Pro-Keratin and caring ingredients, it helps protect your hair as you color, keeping it healthy. The kit also includes a gentle shampoo and deep conditioner with ceramides, which nourish your hair and scalp after coloring, making the whole process caring and convenient for you.

What We Like
Ammonia-free formula
100% gray coverage
Pro-Keratin protection
Includes shampoo and conditioner
Balanced warm and cool tones

Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel, 1N Black

ANT-001
1N Black
Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel, 1N Black Cover
Herbatint Permanent Hair Dye For Women - 1N Black - For Up To 100% Gray Coverage - Ammonia-Free, Alcohol-Free & Vegan - Salon Influenced Hair color 5.75 Fl Oz

Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel is an alcohol-free, vegan hair dye that provides 100% grey coverage. It colors white hair from the first application and protects hair structure while giving a deep natural gloss and vibrancy. The formula is specially made from herb extracts, including rosemary, cinchona, and walnut husk, to achieve a natural, subtle color that looks great and feels soft time after time.

What We Like
Healthy hair results
Low-toxicity ingredients
No strong odor
Covers grey effectively
Long-lasting color
#TOP 9

Revlon ColorSilk Black Permanent Hair Color

10 Black
Revlon ColorSilk Black Permanent Hair Color Cover
Revlon ColorSilk with Bond Repair Complex, Black Permanent Hair Color, 100% Gray Coverage, Ammonia Free Hair Dye, Vegan Keratin, 10 Black (Pack of 3)

The Revlon ColorSilk Hair Dye is designed to give you vibrant, lasting color while caring for your hair. It contains a Bond Repair Complex and Vegan Keratin Fillers that work together to strengthen your hair from within, helping to reduce damage. With this product, you can expect up to 98% less hair breakage, which means healthier strands that last longer. Your hair will also feel silkier and look shinier—up to 9 times more shine compared to untreated hair. Plus, it covers gray hair completely and stays vibrant for up to 8 weeks, giving you salon-quality results at home without the harsh smell of ammonia.

What We Like
Hair repair complex
Reduced hair breakage
Smoother, shinier hair
100% gray coverage
Long-lasting vibrant color
#TOP 10

Revlon ColorSilk Bond Repair Brown Hair Color

33 Dark Soft Brown
Revlon ColorSilk Bond Repair Brown Hair Color Cover
Revlon ColorSilk with Bond Repair Complex, Brown Permanent Hair Color, 100% Gray Coverage, Ammonia Free Hair Dye, Vegan Keratin, 33 Dark Soft Brown (Pack of 3)

The Revlon ColorSilk Brown Dye is designed to give you vibrant, lasting color while caring for your hair. It helps strengthen your hair from within, reducing damage and breakage so your strands stay healthier. You’ll notice your hair feels smoother and looks shinier, making it easier to manage and style. Plus, this ammonia-free formula covers gray hair fully and keeps your color rich for up to eight weeks. With these benefits, you can enjoy salon-quality results at home without worrying about harsh chemicals or dull color.

What We Like
Hair repair complex
Reduces breakage
Smoother, shinier hair
Ammonia-free formula
100% gray coverage
Buying Guide Image

A Guide to Selecting the Best Ammonia-Free Hair Dye

Introduction

Coloring your hair can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it's important to choose the right hair dye for your needs. One type of hair dye that has gained popularity in recent years is ammonia-free hair dye. Ammonia-free hair dye is a gentler alternative to traditional hair dyes that contain ammonia, which can be harsh on the hair and scalp. In this article, we'll discuss what ammonia-free hair dye is and how to choose the right one for you.

What is Ammonia-Free Hair Dye?

Ammonia is a common ingredient in hair dyes because it helps the hair dye penetrate the hair shaft and deposit color. However, ammonia can be harsh and damaging to the hair, leading to dryness, breakage, and even hair loss. Ammonia-free hair dyes, on the other hand, use alternative ingredients to deposit color without the use of ammonia. These ingredients are typically gentler on the hair and can help to minimize damage and maintain the hair's natural moisture and shine.

How to Choose Ammonia-Free Hair Dye

When choosing an ammonia-free hair dye, there are a few key factors to consider. These include:

  1. The brand and ingredients: Not all ammonia-free hair dyes are created equal. Some brands may use gentler ingredients than others, so it's important to read the label and look for brands that use natural and organic ingredients. Avoid hair dyes that contain harsh chemicals, such as peroxide, which can still be damaging to the hair.

  2. The color: Ammonia-free hair dyes are available in a wide range of colors, from natural shades to bold, vibrant hues. When choosing a color, consider your natural hair color and skin tone, and choose a shade that complements your features.

  3. The type of hair dye: Ammonia-free hair dyes come in different forms, including permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary. Permanent hair dyes are the most long-lasting and will cover gray hairs, but they can also be the most damaging to the hair. Semi-permanent and temporary dyes are gentler on the hair and can be a good option for those with damaged or sensitive hair.

  4. Your hair condition: If you have damaged, dry, or sensitive hair, it's important to choose a hair dye that will be gentle on your hair and won't further damage it. Look for hair dyes that contain conditioning ingredients, such as nourishing oils and vitamins, to help repair and protect your hair.

Conclusion

Ammonia-free hair dyes are a great option for those looking to color their hair without damaging it. By considering the brand, color, type of hair dye, and your hair condition, you can find the right ammonia-free hair dye for your needs. With a little research and care, you can enjoy beautiful, vibrant hair without sacrificing the health of your locks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is ammonia-free hair dye better for your hair?

Ammonia-free hair dye may not necessarily be better for your hair. Scientific studies show that ammonia protects the hair structure better than the alternative ingredient, MEA, particularly for permanent color performance and gray coverage. While ammonia-free dyes may have their advantages, it's important to consider the specific needs and goals for your hair color before making a decision.

2. Is ammonia-free dye damaging?

Ammonia-free hair dyes, also known as semi-permanent hair dyes, do not open the cuticle for long-lasting results. Instead, they coat the outer layer of hair strands with color. In a study, ethanolamine was found to be more damaging compared to ammonia. It's important to be aware of the potential effects of different ingredients and choose a dye that aligns with your hair's health and needs.

3. What does ammonia-free hair dye do?

Ammonia-free hair dye does not contain ammonia but uses alternative ingredients to impart color to the hair. These dyes typically include coloring agents and emollient oils to prevent protein and moisture loss from the hair cuticles during the coloring process. They offer an alternative option for those who prefer to avoid ammonia in their hair dye.

4. Does ammonia-free dye cover gray?

Yes, certain ammonia-free hair dye formulas, such as demi-permanent hair gloss, can provide temporary color change and gray coverage. These formulas typically last for four to six weeks, allowing you to try a new hair color for gray hair without a long-term commitment.

5. What is the disadvantage of ammonia-free hair dye?

One disadvantage of ammonia-free hair dye is that the color coating it provides washes off relatively quickly compared to ammonia-based dyes. Since the hair does not absorb the color in the same way, it does not remain as long. However, ammonia-free products offer versatility and may be suitable for certain hair color needs or preferences.

Editor's Notes

During our ammonia-free hair dye research, we found 48 ammonia-free hair dye products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 465,197 customer reviews through our big data system to write the ammonia-free hair dye list. We found that most customers choose ammonia-free hair dye with an average price of $12.36.

The ammonia-free hair dye are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of ammonia-free hair dye, including Garnier, L'Oreal Paris, Schwarzkopf, Naturtint, Herbatint. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.