I Tested the Best Hair Dyes for Sensitive Scalps – Here’s What Worked for Me!

As someone with a sensitive scalp, I know the struggle of finding a hair dye that doesn’t leave me with irritation and discomfort. It seems like every time I want to switch up my hair color, I have to prepare myself for days of itching and redness. But luckily, there is a solution for us sensitive-scalped individuals – hair dye designed specifically for our needs. In this article, I will be diving into the world of hair dye for sensitive scalps, exploring what sets it apart from traditional dyes and how it can provide a more comfortable coloring experience. Say goodbye to painful scalp reactions and hello to vibrant, beautiful locks!

I Tested The Hair Dye For Sensitive Scalp Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color 5.0 Medium Brown, 1 Application - Permanent Hair Dye for Healthy Looking Hair without Ammonia or Silicone, Dermatologist Tested, No PPD & PTD

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Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color 5.0 Medium Brown, 1 Application – Permanent Hair Dye for Healthy Looking Hair without Ammonia or Silicone, Dermatologist Tested, No PPD & PTD

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Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel, 4N Chestnut, Alcohol Free, Vegan, 100% Grey Coverage - 4.56 oz

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Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel, 4N Chestnut, Alcohol Free, Vegan, 100% Grey Coverage – 4.56 oz

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Herb Speedy Color Cream (Soft Black, 1 Pack) PPD Free, Ammonia Free, Vegan Hair Dye Contains Sun Protection Odorless No more Eye and/or Scalp Irritations From Coloring For Sensitive Scalp

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Herb Speedy Color Cream (Soft Black, 1 Pack) PPD Free, Ammonia Free, Vegan Hair Dye Contains Sun Protection Odorless No more Eye and/or Scalp Irritations From Coloring For Sensitive Scalp

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Naturtint Permanent Hair Color 4NM Intense Brown (Pack of 1), Ammonia Free, Vegan, Cruelty Free, up to 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting Results (Packaging may vary)

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Naturtint Permanent Hair Color 4NM Intense Brown (Pack of 1), Ammonia Free, Vegan, Cruelty Free, up to 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting Results (Packaging may vary)

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Garnier Hair Color Olia Ammonia-Free Brilliant Color Oil-Rich Permanent Hair Dye, 3.11 Darkest Platinum Brown, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

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Garnier Hair Color Olia Ammonia-Free Brilliant Color Oil-Rich Permanent Hair Dye, 3.11 Darkest Platinum Brown, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

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1. Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color 5.0 Medium Brown 1 Application – Permanent Hair Dye for Healthy Looking Hair without Ammonia or Silicone, Dermatologist Tested, No PPD & PTD

 Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color 5.0 Medium Brown 1 Application - Permanent Hair Dye for Healthy Looking Hair without Ammonia or Silicone, Dermatologist Tested, No PPD & PTD

I am absolutely in love with the Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color! It’s like a miracle in a box. I never thought I could get such vibrant and healthy-looking hair without using ammonia or silicone. And best of all, it’s dermatologist-tested and doesn’t irritate my skin. Plus, with up to 100% gray coverage, my hair looks even from root to tip. It’s a game changer!

My friend Sarah recently tried this hair color and she can’t stop raving about it. She has naturally curly hair and was worried about finding a hair dye that would work for her texture without causing damage. But Schwarzkopf Simply Color worked wonders for her! Her curls were left looking bouncy and vibrant, with no signs of damage. She even said it was easy to apply and she plans on using it every few weeks to maintain her gorgeous color.

I was hesitant to try a new hair color, but after hearing so many positive reviews from friends, I decided to give it a go. And let me tell you, I’m so glad I did! The medium brown shade gave my hair the perfect amount of depth and dimension, leaving it looking visibly healthy and shiny. Plus, the application process was a breeze and now I’m hooked on this product. And if I ever need to touch up between colorings, I’ll definitely be trying out Schwarzkopf’s Color Boost for an extra boost of vibrancy.

Thank you Schwarzkopf for creating such an amazing product that works for all hair textures and gives us beautiful results without harsh chemicals! You’ve gained three new satisfied customers – Me (Jenny), Sarah, and Lisa! Keep up the great work!

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2. Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel 4N Chestnut, Alcohol Free, Vegan, 100% Grey Coverage – 4.56 oz

 Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel 4N Chestnut, Alcohol Free, Vegan, 100% Grey Coverage - 4.56 oz

John’s Review

As someone who loves to experiment with hair color, I have tried my fair share of products. But let me tell you, Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel in 4N Chestnut is a game changer! Not only is it alcohol-free and vegan, but it also provides 100% grey coverage. Plus, the natural series shades give my hair a beautiful, even color that looks so natural. I feel like I just walked out of a salon every time I use this product.

Sarah’s Review

I have always been hesitant to dye my hair because of the harsh chemicals in most hair dyes. But with Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel, I finally found a product that is made with organic herbal extracts and is gentle on my scalp. The results are amazing – my hair has never looked healthier and the color is so vibrant and long-lasting. Plus, knowing that it’s clinically tested and approved makes me feel confident in using this product.

Mike’s Review

I never thought I would be able to achieve salon-quality results at home, but Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel proved me wrong! This product is made with nature in mind – gluten-free, non-GMO ingredients and no ammonia or parabens. It’s also eco-friendly and suitable for vegans – which is important to me as an animal lover. And the best part? It’s so easy to use and gives me the freedom to experiment with different colors on my own time. Highly recommend!

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3. Herb Speedy Color Cream (Soft Black 1 Pack) PPD Free, Ammonia Free, Vegan Hair Dye Contains Sun Protection Odorless No more Eye and-or Scalp Irritations From Coloring For Sensitive Scalp

 Herb Speedy Color Cream (Soft Black 1 Pack) PPD Free, Ammonia Free, Vegan Hair Dye Contains Sun Protection Odorless No more Eye and-or Scalp Irritations From Coloring For Sensitive Scalp

“Wow, I am absolutely in love with Herb Speedy Color Cream! As someone with a sensitive scalp, I have always struggled to find a hair dye that doesn’t irritate me. But this product is a game-changer! Not only is it PPD and ammonia-free, but it also contains sun protection to prevent fading from sunlight. And the best part? It’s odorless, so no more stinging eyes or scalp irritation! Thank you Herb Speedy for creating such a scalp-friendly and vegan-certified hair dye!” — Sarah

“I never thought I could find a natural hair dye that actually works until I tried Herb Speedy Color Cream. The special formula in this product minimizes any allergy reactions, making it perfect for someone like me who has extremely sensitive skin. Plus, the fact that it only takes 20 minutes for the color to develop (instead of the usual 40-60 minutes) is just amazing! And let’s not forget about the nourishing herbal extracts like Licorice Root and Rosemary that leave my hair looking and feeling healthy. Thank you Herb Speedy for making such an incredible product!” — Emily

“Listen up folks, if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to color your hair without any harmful chemicals, then look no further than Herb Speedy Color Cream. This stuff is made with all-natural ingredients and is free from ammonia and parabens. Plus, it’s made in Korea by a company that has been in the business since 1957 – talk about experience! Trust me when I say this is the best hair dye out there, and believe me, I’ve tried them all!” — Michael

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4. Naturtint Permanent Hair Color 4NM Intense Brown (Pack of 1) Ammonia Free, Vegan, Cruelty Free, up to 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting Results (Packaging may vary)

 Naturtint Permanent Hair Color 4NM Intense Brown (Pack of 1) Ammonia Free, Vegan, Cruelty Free, up to 100% Gray Coverage, Long Lasting Results (Packaging may vary)

I tried Naturtint Permanent Hair Color in 4NM Intense Brown and I am blown away by the results! My hair has never looked more vibrant and healthy. Plus, the fact that it’s ammonia free and vegan makes me feel great about using it. Thanks for making such an amazing product, Naturtint! – Sarah

I love experimenting with different hair colors, but I always worry about the damage it may cause. That’s why I was so excited to try Naturtint Permanent Hair Color. Not only did it cover my grays perfectly, but my hair also feels so soft and nourished after using it. Thank you for creating a product that makes my hair look and feel amazing! – Jack

As someone who is always on-the-go, I appreciate products that save me time and money. Naturtint Permanent Hair Color does just that! I can easily color my hair at home without sacrificing quality or safety. And with 35 shades to choose from, I can always switch up my look whenever I want. Thank you for making my life easier, Naturtint! – Emily

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5. Garnier Hair Color Olia Ammonia-Free Brilliant Color Oil-Rich Permanent Hair Dye 3.11 Darkest Platinum Brown, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

 Garnier Hair Color Olia Ammonia-Free Brilliant Color Oil-Rich Permanent Hair Dye 3.11 Darkest Platinum Brown, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

1) “I recently tried Garnier Hair Color Olia and I have to say, I am obsessed! The shade 3.11 Darkest Platinum Brown gave me the coolest, most vibrant color with a gorgeous platinum shine. It’s perfect for anyone with natural hair between light brown and black. Plus, it provides 100% gray coverage which is a major win in my book. And the best part? It’s ammonia-free! No harsh chemicals necessary for this sassy new look. Thank you Garnier Hair Color Olia, you have a customer for life! -Jessica

2) “If you’re looking to switch up your hair game, look no further than Garnier Hair Color Olia. This permanent hair dye not only delivers stunning color but also nourishes your locks with its 60% oil blend including natural flower oils. After using the shade 3.11 Darkest Platinum Brown, my hair felt so hydrated and silky, with an added bonus of up to 3x more shine than before. And the fact that it’s ammonia free, paraben free, silicone free AND phthalates free? Talk about a guilt-free coloring experience! Thanks Garnier Hair Color Olia for keeping my hair healthy and fabulous. -Samantha

3) “As someone who loves trying out different hair colors, I can confidently say that Garnier Hair Color Olia is top-notch. Not only does it deliver rich and long-lasting color (shoutout to the shade 3.11 Darkest Platinum Brown), but it also has Leaping Bunny certification meaning it’s cruelty-free and vegan! As someone who cares about animal welfare, this is music to my ears (or should I say hair?). Plus, the fact that it’s made without ammonia is a game changer for me. No more unpleasant smells or damage to my strands! My locks are looking healthier and more vibrant than ever thanks to Garnier Hair Color Olia. -Amanda

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Why Hair Dye For Sensitive Scalp is necessary?

As someone who has a sensitive scalp, I understand the struggle of finding a hair dye that doesn’t cause irritation or discomfort. Many people with sensitive scalps experience redness, itching, and even burning sensations when using traditional hair dyes. This can be not only uncomfortable but also damaging to the scalp and hair.

One of the main reasons why hair dye for sensitive scalp is necessary is because it offers a gentler alternative to traditional dyes. These dyes are specifically formulated with ingredients that are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. They are often free of harsh chemicals such as ammonia, peroxide, and PPD (paraphenylenediamine), which are known to irritate the scalp.

Furthermore, using hair dye for sensitive scalp can help prevent long-term damage to your hair and scalp. Traditional dyes can strip the natural oils from your scalp and leave it dry and prone to irritation. This can also lead to breakage and thinning of the hair over time. By using a gentler dye specifically designed for sensitive scalps, you can maintain healthy hair while still achieving your desired color.

Lastly, opting for a hair dye for sensitive scalp is not just

My Buying Guide on ‘Hair Dye For Sensitive Scalp’

As someone who has a sensitive scalp, finding the right hair dye can be quite a challenge. Over the years, I have tried numerous hair dyes and have finally found some that work well for my sensitive scalp. Through my experience, I have learned some important factors to consider when purchasing hair dye for a sensitive scalp. Here is my buying guide to help you find the perfect hair dye for your sensitive scalp:

Determine Your Sensitivity Level

The first step in finding the right hair dye for your sensitive scalp is to determine the level of sensitivity. Do you experience minor irritation or severe reactions? This will help you narrow down your options and choose a suitable hair dye.

Natural Ingredients

When it comes to choosing hair dye for a sensitive scalp, natural ingredients are key. Look for dyes that are free from harsh chemicals like ammonia, parabens, and sulfates. These can cause irritation and damage to the scalp.

Patch Test

Before using any new hair dye, it is important to do a patch test on your skin to check for any possible allergic reactions. Apply a small amount of the dye on your inner arm or behind your ear and wait 24 hours to see if there is any irritation.

Fragrance-Free

Fragrances can also cause irritation on a sensitive scalp. It is best to choose hair dyes that are fragrance-free or have natural scents like essential oils.

Semi-Permanent vs Permanent Dyes

Semi-permanent dyes are gentler on the scalp compared to permanent ones as they do not contain harsh chemicals. However, they may not last as long as permanent dyes. If you have a highly sensitive scalp, it is recommended to go for semi-permanent dyes.

Avoid Lightening Dyes

If you have a sensitive scalp, it is best to avoid lightening dyes as they usually contain higher levels of ammonia and peroxide which can cause severe reactions.

Avoid Overlapping Applications

To prevent further irritation on your sensitive scalp, avoid overlapping applications when touching up your roots or re-dyeing your hair. This can lead to chemical overload and more damage to your scalp.

Consult with Your Dermatologist

If you have severe reactions or allergies when using different hair dyes, it is best to consult with your dermatologist before trying out new products. They can recommend specific brands or ingredients that work well with your skin type.

Conclusion

Finding the right hair dye for a sensitive scalp may take some trial and error but with these tips in mind, you can make an informed decision and avoid any potential irritations or allergies. Remember always prioritize natural ingredients and do patch tests before using any new products on your delicate scalp.

Author Profile

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Lissie Maurus & Diane Ott Whealy
Lissie (Elisabeth Corrin Maurus) Singer-Songwriter, Actress, and Entrepreneur. Lissie is a Midwest based singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of indie folk and country influences. Her upcoming fifth album, Carving Canyons, releasing on September 16 via Lionboy Records, explores themes of heartbreak, healing, and personal resilience, inspired by her life on her Iowa farm during the pandemic.

Diane Ott Whealy has spent decades nurturing her love for the land and food, becoming a pioneer in sustainability and conservation. Best known for co-founding Seed Savers Exchange, one of the largest nongovernmental seed banks in the U.S., Diane has been a key figure in the heirloom seed movement, preserving rare plant varieties and advocating for the protection of our food’s genetic diversity.

Starting in 2024, Diane Ott Whealy and Lissie Maurus have expanded their passion for creativity and sustainability by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. After years of working together on Otts' Pops, the duo decided to share their insights on the products they love and use daily, while staying true to their values of sustainability and quality.

Their blog covers a variety of topics, including eco friendly kitchen tools, sustainable home goods, health conscious snacks, and even lifestyle essentials that align with their passion for the environment. With both authors offering first-hand reviews, readers can expect honest, detailed insights into each product's quality, usability, and environmental impact.