Are you feeling a little bored and want to use the best vegan hair dyes for brown hair? Are you ready to switch things up and transform your hair into a new fresh look? Whether you’re craving a subtle change or a bold new look, there are plenty of amazing vegan and cruelty-free hair dye options out there that are perfect for brown-haired beauties. Not only are these dyes kind to animals and the environment, but they also provide gorgeous, long-lasting color that will look like you just stepped out of a salon. Get ready for your new style with these amazing plant-based vegan hair dyes for brown hair, and feel good knowing that you are also supporting ethical beauty practices.
But wait, before you go running to the salon or breaking the bank, let’s talk about an affordable and ethical option – dyeing your hair at home with vegan and cruelty-free hair dyes! Not only are these products kinder to our animal friends and the world around us, but they’re also gentler on your hair and scalp.
So, let’s get started on your hair transformation! In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to dye your brown hair at home, including how to prep, choose the perfect shade, and properly apply the dye. Plus, we’ve got you covered with some of the best vegan and cruelty-free hair dyes on the market, so you can choose the perfect product for your hair. Get ready to turn heads with your new look!
The Best Vegan Hair Dyes For Brown Hair Made Easy
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through one of my links, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.
You might also like these hair color ideas HERE.
Prepping Your Hair To Dye
Alright, before we get to the fun part of slathering dye on our hair, let’s make sure we’re prepped and ready to go! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Gloves: To avoid getting hair dye on your skin, gloves are a must-have to keep your hands from turning blue, green, or any other funky color.
- Hair Dye: Obviously, you’ll need the star of the show – the hair dye! Make sure to choose a vegan and cruelty-free product that suits your needs and desired shade, which we’ll go over below.
- Mixing Bowl and Brush: If you’re going for an all-over color, you’ll need a bowl and brush to ensure even coverage. If you’re only dyeing certain parts of your hair, a brush may be enough.
- Old Shirt and Towel: Hair dye has a sneaky way of getting on everything, so it’s best to wear an old shirt and use a towel you don’t mind staining.
- Coconut Oil or Shea Butter: Applying coconut oil or shea butter along your hairline and ears will protect your skin from dye stains. And, either of these is a more natural and better for your skin alternative to petroleum jelly.
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to prep your hair! Before applying the dye, make sure your hair is clean and free of any styling products. If you have any tangles or knots, brush them out before you begin.
Remember, you’re about to transform your hair, so it’s best to work in a space that’s easy to clean up. Trust us, you don’t want to be scrubbing dye off your bathroom walls for hours!
Now that you’re prepped and ready, let’s move on to the exciting part – choosing the perfect shade!
Choosing the Right Shade
Now comes the exciting part – choosing the perfect shade for your brown hair! With so many options out there, it can be a little overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some tips to help you find the perfect match:
- Consider your skin tone: When it comes to choosing a hair color, your skin tone plays a big role. If you have warm undertones, look for shades with golden or copper hues. If you have cool undertones, opt for ash or cool-toned browns.
- Think about the season: Are you looking for a fresh spring look or a warm autumn vibe? Choose a shade that complements the season and your personal style.
- Look at your natural hair color: If you’re not looking to stray too far from your natural hair color, choose a shade that’s only a couple of shades lighter or darker than your current color.
- Take inspiration from your favorite celebs: Let’s face it, we’ve all gone down a celebrity hair color rabbit hole. Take inspiration from your favorite celebs and find a shade that you love.
Remember, at the end of the day, it’s all about what makes you feel confident and beautiful! If you’re feeling adventurous, go for a bold and bright shade. If you’re more into subtle changes, opt for a natural-looking color. The choice is yours!
Pre-Lightening Brown Hair
You may need to pre-lighten brown hair before applying certain hair dyes or to get certain hair colors, especially bright colors. Because brown hair naturally contains a lot of pigment, it can be a little harder for lighter hair colors to show up or for certain hair dyes to stick to your strands.
Pre-lightening brown hair involves removing some of the natural pigment from the hair shaft, which can make it lighter and allow certain hair dyes or hair colors to show up on brown hair. For example, if you want to put a vibrant pink or pastel hair color on brown hair, you may need to pre-lighten your hair to a lighter shade first.
However, it’s important to note that pre-lightening can be damaging to the hair, and it’s important to use a high-quality product and follow the instructions carefully to minimize damage.
It’s also important to keep in mind that pre-lightening may not be necessary for all hair dye colors or techniques, and if you find yourself confused or unsure, then it may be best to talk it over with a professional stylist who can help determine the best approach for your specific hair type and the style that you want.
And, if your stylist doesn’t carry vegan hair dyes and you would rather that they do your hair, you can show them the color from the brand you want, and bring it into your stylist so they can pre-lighten your hair and color your hair with the vegan hair dye.
But, if you want to give pre-lightening a go at home, here are the steps you can follow.
How To Pre-Lighten Brown Hair At Home:
Choose a high-quality hair lightener
Using a lightener like the Good Dye Young Lightening Kit (a brand that’s made in Nashville, TN) is specifically designed to pre-lighten hair, making it a perfect option for brown hair that may be too dark for certain hair dye colors.
It’s also safe for your hair (no harsh chemicals such as ammonia), easy to use (formulated to work on a range of hair colors, including brown hair, and can lighten hair up to 7 levels), and of course vegan and cruelty-free.
Mix the lightener
Follow the instructions on the packaging to mix the hair lightener with the developer. You can use a bowl and brush or an applicator bottle to mix the product.
Section your hair
Divide your hair into small sections and clip them up to make it easier to apply the lightener evenly.
Apply the lightener
Starting at the ends of your hair, use a tinting brush or applicator bottle to apply the lightener to your hair. Work your way up to the roots, making sure to apply the product evenly and saturate each section completely.
Process the lightener
Leave the lightener on your hair for the recommended amount of time, checking your hair regularly to make sure it is not becoming too light or damaged.
Rinse and condition
Once the lightener has finished processing, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water to remove all of the product. Apply a deep conditioning treatment to help restore moisture to your hair.
Which Shades Work For Brown Hair?
You Might Also Like:
13+ Beautiful Stunning Autumn Highlights for Dark Brown Hair
7+ Prettiest Fall Hair Color Ideas for Brunettes
How To Make: Easy Spring Vegan Hair Perfume Recipes
Burgundy
Pre-lighten: Yes
This deep red color can add warmth and dimension to brown hair. Look for a vegan and cruelty-free hair dye in a shade like “Deep Burgundy” or “Cherry Red.”
Tips To Color Your Brown Hair Burgundy:
Choose a dye with warm undertones to avoid a muddy or dull result.
If your brown hair is dark or has cool undertones, you may need to pre-lighten your hair before applying a burgundy hair dye to get the true color of the dye.
Chocolate Brown
Pre-lighten: Yes, if you have dark brown hair. If you have a lighter shade of brown hair, you may not need pre-lightening, depending on the depth and tone of your brown hair.
If you want to enhance your natural brown hair, try a rich chocolate brown shade. Add warmth, dimension, and richness to your natural hair color. This is a great way to enhance your natural hair without making a drastic change, as it is still within the brown hair family.
Chocolate brown is also a versatile shade that complements a variety of skin tones, making it a popular choice for many people. Additionally, it’s a low-maintenance hair color that fades gracefully, allowing for easy upkeep.
Auburn
Pre-lighten: Yes, if you have dark brown hair. If you have a lighter shade of brown hair, you may not need pre-lightening, depending on the depth and tone of your brown hair.
This reddish-brown shade will add some warmth and vibrancy to your hairstyle. Auburn is a beautiful shade that falls somewhere between brown and red, and it can look stunning on a variety of skin tones and hair types.
Auburn hair color is also versatile. Its shades can range from light and subtle to bold and dark.
You’ll also stand out from the crowd. While brown and blonde hair are both beautiful, they’re also pretty common hair colors. By opting for a unique shade like auburn, you can make a statement and show off your individuality.
Plum
Pre-lighten: Yes
Plum is a bold shade that can really make a statement. This purple-red color can create a striking contrast against brown hair.
It can enhance the natural warm undertones in brown hair and add depth and dimension to your locks. It’s a great way to switch things up without going too drastic or damaging your hair. Plus, it’s a fun and exciting way to experiment with a new look and express yourself with your hair.
Copper
Pre-lighten: Yes, if you have dark brown hair. If you have a lighter shade of brown hair, you may not need pre-lightening, depending on the depth and tone of your brown hair.
Copper is a warm reddish-brown shade that can really bring out the natural warmth in brown hair and give you a vibrant boost. You’ll add some dimension and texture to your locks without going too extreme.
Copper can go from warm and vibrant color to a deep, rich hue to a lighter, more golden tone. And, it’s complimentary to a wide range of skin tones, from fair to dark. And, there are a number of ways to style your hair and makeup looks that go with copper hair. Whether you’re going for an all-over copper, or you just want to add some highlights, it’s a fun and bold way to switch up your look.
Golden Blonde
Pre-lighten: Yes, if you have dark brown hair. If you have a lighter shade of brown hair, you may not need pre-lightening, depending on the depth and tone of the brown hair.
Golden blonde is a great choice for those with warm or neutral undertones, as it will bring out the natural warmth in your complexion. Lightening your hair can help to create a more youthful refreshing look.
Rose Gold
Pre-lighten: Yes
Rose gold is a unique and stunning hair color that will make you stand out from the crowd. It’s gives a soft, feminine look and is a trendy color with a blend of pink and gold tones that create a warm and romantic look.
Dark Blue
Pre-lighten: Yes
When it comes to using dark blue hair dye on brown hair, you’ll probably need to pre-lighten it. Brown hair typically has a lot of red and orange undertones, which can affect the final color of the dye.
Dark blue hair is a bold and edgy look, but with the right products and care, you can have a stunning and unique look that will make you stand out from the crowd.
Light Pink
Pre-lighten: Yes
Light pink is a fun and playful color that can add a touch of whimsy to your brown hair. It might seem a bit daring, but you’ll get a pop of color to your everyday style. Wearing a light pink hair color can be a lot of fun and a great way to express your creativity and individuality.
For brown hair, you’ll need to lighten your hair to a bleached-like shade before applying the pink dye.
Silver
Pre-lighten: Yes
If you’re ready to embrace your inner ice queen, try a silver shade.
This cool-toned shade can give off a futuristic and edgy vibe that is both chic and unique. It’s a bold look that can make a statement and turn heads.
Silver hair color is popular because it’s a versatile shade that can work for a variety of skin tones and personal styles. Whether it’s a subtle silver tint or a full-on metallic silver hue, there are several different shades and variations to choose from.
Many people think silver hair is just for those who are aging, but in recent years, more and more people of all ages have been embracing the silver hair trend. It’s a way to break free from societal beauty standards and celebrate the natural beauty of aging.
Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement or simply embrace your own natural aging process, silver hair color is a striking and versatile choice that can work for virtually anyone.
Dark Green
Pre-lighten: Yes
Dark green hair color is an earthy shade that can create a moody, mysterious look and is a bold choice that can work for many different skin tones and hair types, including brown hair.
For brown hair, you’ll want deep forest green or olive color to add depth and dimension. A dark green shade can create a beautiful contrast for natural brown heads, making you stand out with a more lively look.
Lavender
Pre-lighten: Yes
This soft purple shade can add a feminine touch of elegance to your brown hair.
If you have fair skin, you’ll want to opt for a lighter pastel lavender shade, while deeper complexions can choose a more saturated, deeper purple shade.
Black
Pre-lighten: Yes
Black is really a bold and striking look that can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to your appearance. For a classic and dramatic look, try a jet-black shade.
You’ll want to keep in mind that black hair dye can be tricky to apply, especially if you have colored your hair before. If so, you may need to strip the color from your hair before applying the black dye to get the right color to show up.
Also, if you have natural brown hair, you may find that the black dye fades quickly, especially if you have hair that easily absorbs the dye.
Mahogany
Pre-lighten: Yes, if you have dark brown hair. If you have a lighter shade of brown hair, you may not need pre-lightening, depending on the depth and tone of the brown hair.
Mahogany is a rich, reddish-brown color that can give your hair a vibrant and multidimensional look. It will also add some warmth and depth to your brown hair.
Mahogany hair dye is a good choice for those with medium to dark brown hair, as it can help to brighten up the hair and give it a more lively appearance. The warm, reddish tones in the mahogany color can complement many skin tones, making it a versatile option for anyone who wants to switch up their look.
It can be a beautiful and flattering hair color for brown heads.
Now that you’ve chosen your perfect shade, it’s time to get dyeing! But before we do that, let’s talk about some of the best vegan and cruelty-free hair dyes on the market.
How To Apply Vegan Hair Color
Alright, it’s time to get your dye on! Follow these simple steps to achieve the hair of your dreams:
- Start by mixing the hair dye according to the instructions on the package. Some dyes require you to mix a developer with the color, while others come pre-mixed.
- Section your hair: To ensure even coverage, divide your hair into sections using clips or hair ties. This will also make the application process much easier!
- Apply coconut oil or shea butter around your hairline and ears to prevent staining or irritation on your skin.
- Put on your gloves and grab your mixing bowl and brush. Dip the brush into the dye mixture and apply it to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends.
- Once you’ve applied the dye to one section of hair, clip it back up and move onto the next section. Continue until all sections are covered.
- Follow the recommended processing time on the package. This can range from 20 minutes to an hour depending on the dye you’re using.
- After the processing time is up, rinse your hair with cool water until the water runs clear.
- Apply the conditioner that comes with the dye, or a separate vegan and cruelty-free conditioner, to help lock in the color and nourish your hair.
- Rinse the conditioner out and style your hair as desired!
Remember, the key to a successful dye job is taking your time and being thorough. Don’t rush the application process, and make sure to follow the instructions on the package.
Now that you know how to dye your hair like a pro, let’s talk about some of the best vegan and cruelty-free hair dyes on the market that will give you a vibrant and long-lasting color.
Rinse and Post-Dye Care
Congrats, you’ve successfully dyed your hair! Now it’s time to rinse and take care of those newly colored locks. Follow these tips for a flawless finish:
1. Rinsing
Rinse your hair with cool water until the water runs clear. This will help to remove any excess dye and prevent fading.
2. Wait To Shampoo
Avoid shampooing your hair for at least 24-48 hours after dyeing. This will give the color time to set and will prevent it from washing out too soon.
3. Shampoo
When you do shampoo, make sure to use a color-safe, vegan, and cruelty-free shampoo. Regular shampoos can strip the color and leave your hair looking dull.
4. Conditioner
Use a vegan and cruelty-free conditioner to keep your hair nourished and hydrated. Dyed hair can be more prone to dryness and damage, so it’s important to keep it moisturized.
5. Styling
Limit your use of heat styling tools. Frequent use of flat irons, curling wands, and hair dryers can damage your hair and cause the color to fade faster.
6. Color Care
Protect your hair from the sun. UV rays can cause hair color to fade, so make sure to wear a hat or use a vegan and cruelty-free hair sunscreen when spending time outdoors.
By following these tips, you can help your hair color last longer and stay vibrant.
Don’t Forget
Remember to schedule touch-ups every 4-6 weeks to keep your color looking fresh!
Now that you know how to care for your newly dyed hair, it’s time to show off your new look with confidence!
The Best Vegan Hair Dyes for Brown Hair
Now that you know how to dye your hair at home, let’s talk about some of the best vegan and cruelty-free hair dyes on the market that are perfect for brown hair! Here are some of our top picks:
Arctic Fox
Arctic Fox dyes and products are made with high-quality, natural ingredients and are free from harsh chemicals such as peroxide, ammonia, and PPD.
Their colors are also long-lasting and fade-resistant, so you can enjoy your new hair color for weeks without worrying about it fading or washing out.
You’ll find many different hair colors to choose from that include everything from bold and bright hues to more subtle pastels and earthy tones, so you’re sure to find a shade that suits your style.
Not only are Arctic Fox hair dyes kinder to animals and the environment, but they’re also a great choice for your hair. Their formulas contain nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil, argan oil, and avocado oil, which can help to hydrate and strengthen your hair, leaving it looking and feeling healthier.
Shades For Brown Hair:
Lime Crime
Lime Crime is a colorful and creative brand that offers vegan and cruelty-free hair dye in a wide range of bold and bright hues. Their formulas are gentle on your hair and scalp, and contain nourishing ingredients like sunflower seed oil and keratin.
And, not only that but, their packaging is super cute and will make you want to dye your hair every color of the rainbow!
Shades For Brown Hair:
Manic Panic
Manic Panic has been a go-to for vegans and cruelty-free beauty enthusiasts for years. They offer a range of beautiful shades that work well on brown hair, and their dyes are gentle and conditioning.
They are a legendary brand in the world of hair color, known for their vibrant and bold shades. Their hair dyes are vegan and cruelty-free and are made with high-quality, natural ingredients like herbs and vegetable dyes. Plus, their packaging is edgy and cool, perfect for anyone looking to make a statement with their hair.
Shades For Brown Hair:
Good Dye Young
Good Dye Young is a colorful and playful brand that offers vegan and cruelty-free hair dye options in bright and bold hues. Their formulas are gentle on your hair and scalp, and contain nourishing ingredients like keratin and sunflower seed oil. Plus, their packaging is fun and whimsical, making dyeing your hair a fun and exciting experience.
This brand was co-founded by Hayley Williams of Paramore and offers a range of fun and bold colors, including some great options for brown hair. Their dyes are easy to use and provide great coverage.
Shades For Brown Hair:
Overtone
Overtone is a unique brand that offers vegan and cruelty-free hair color options that are designed to be used on already-dyed hair. Their formulas contain nourishing ingredients like avocado oil and shea butter and are available in a wide range of vibrant and pastel shades. They have color conditioners that are ideal for maintaining your hair color between dye jobs.
They have color-depositing conditioners and dyes that work great on brown hair. Their products are also formulated with nourishing ingredients to keep your hair looking and feeling healthy.
Shades For Brown Hair:
Splat
Splat is a colorful and edgy brand that offers vegan and cruelty-free hair dye options in bold and vibrant hues. Their formulas are made with natural ingredients like quinoa and baobab and are designed to be long-lasting and fade-resistant.
Their branding is bold and cool and aligns with anyone looking to make a statement with their hair.
Shades For Brown Hair:
Madison Reed
Madison Reed is a luxurious hair care brand that offers vegan and cruelty-free hair color options. Their products are free from harmful ingredients like ammonia and parabens and are instead made with nourishing ingredients like argan oil and keratin.
You can choose from color options that are natural-looking and versatile, and you’ll be able to find a shade that suits your style.
Shades For Brown Hair:
Keracolor
Keracolor is a brand that offers vegan and cruelty-free hair color options that are designed to be gentle on your hair and scalp. Their formulas contain nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and keratin and are available in a wide range of natural-looking shades.
You’ll love their color-depositing conditioners, which are perfect for maintaining your hair color and keeping it looking fresh between dye jobs.
Shades For Brown Hair:
Naturtint
Naturtint is a natural and gentle hair color brand that offers vegan and cruelty-free options. Their formulas are free from harsh chemicals like ammonia and resorcinol and are instead made with nourishing ingredients like argan oil and plant extracts.
Their natural-looking colors are long-lasting and spot-on for anyone looking for a gentle and effective hair color option.
Shades For Brown Hair:
Remember, when choosing a vegan and cruelty-free hair dye, always make sure to read the label and check the ingredients to ensure they are safe for you and the environment. With so many great options out there, you can rock a new hair color with confidence and without sacrificing your values.
To Wrap Things Up
And there you have it, folks! You now have all the tools and knowledge you need to dye your brown hair at home with confidence using the best vegan and cruelty-free hair dyes.
Remember to take your time and follow the steps carefully, from prepping your hair to choosing the right shade and applying the dye. And don’t forget about post-dye care to keep your newly colored locks looking vibrant and healthy.
With so many amazing vegan and cruelty-free hair dyes on the market, you can experiment with different colors and styles without compromising your values. Plus, you’ll feel great knowing that you’re making a positive impact on the environment and animals.
So go ahead and unleash your inner hair chameleon! Whether you’re going for a subtle change or a bold new look, you can rock any color with confidence and style. Happy dyeing!
