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With top picks from Revlon, Garnier, and Manic Panic.
Byrdie / Kevin Liang
That’sammoniaa colorless chemical commonly used in dyes.
It opens up the cuticle so pigment can be deposited and is particularly effective atlightening the hair.
The fumy substance can irritate your eyes, nose, skin, and throat.
PHOTO: Walmart
If that’s not bad enough, it can also fry your strands, making themdry and brittle.
But is Ammoniareallynecessary to achieve brilliant color?
Developed by salon experts, it offers more than stunning pigment and multidimensional color.
PHOTO: Amazon
Some reviewers noted that it made their scalp tingle a little though.
We love that its super easy to use, too.
All you have to do is mix the color with the activator in the included bottle and apply.
PHOTO: Amazon
Its Radiant Hair Color Kit comes in a whopping 37 shades.
We also love that its formulated with strengthening keratin, moisturizingargan oil, and growth-boosting ginseng root extract.
No bid deal, it also completely covers stubborn grays.
PHOTO: Amazon
With all these extras, expect to spend a bit longer than usual using this dye kit.
Not in love with your new vibrant hue?
No problemit’ll wash out in four to six weeks.
PHOTO: Ulta
As its name suggests, this Korean hair dye is thick and bouncy, not unlike pudding.
And this one isnt just for the blondesthe color shows up on darker strands, too.
The only thing users didnt like was the smell.
PHOTO: Amazon
Your best bet for an at-home color job is Schwarzkopf Simply Color.
(Credit the fact that its ammonia- and alcohol-free.)
Or, for permanent color, blend one part CHI Shine Shades Color with one part CHI Color Generator.
PHOTO: Amazon
What to Look for in Ammonia-Free Hair Dye
“Yes!
Ammonia-free hair dye is very effective,” says Reid.
“I believe the performance of ammonia-free is absolutely equivalent to products that contain ammonia.”
PHOTO: Amazon
Today’s ammonia-free products are available in permanent and temporary formulas and provide excellent pigment.
Reid confirms that ammonia-free hair dye won’t damage your hair.
Having said that, it’s best to check with your healthcare provider first.
PHOTO: Amazon
Pro-level dyes need to be mixed with developer at specific ratios to get the shade that you desire.
The options on this list allow for semi- or permanent color but take the guesswork out of the equation.
Lets leave professional dyes to the hair color pros.
PHOTO: Walmart
Check out more stories by Theresa on MyDomaine and The Spruce.
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