Best Dark Blue Hair Dyes for Dark Hair

As someone who loves experimenting with hair color, I know the struggle of finding that perfect vibrant shade, especially when you have naturally dark hair. It often feels like you need to bleach your hair to oblivion to get any color to show up, but what if you’re craving a rich, deep blue without all that fuss? I’ve spent countless hours researching, comparing, and yes, even testing some of the best dark blue hair dyes for dark hair to see what truly delivers. From subtle blue-blacks that shimmer in the light to bold sapphire hues that stand out, there are fantastic options out there that don’t always require a drastic lightening process. In this guide, I’m sharing my top picks, breaking down their pros and cons, and giving you the lowdown on what to expect, so you can achieve your blue hair dreams right from home.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	AGE beautiful Permanent Hair Color Dye Liqui Creme | 100%…	View on Amazon
	Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 1BB deepest blue…	View on Amazon
	Adore Semi Permanent Hair Color – Vegan and Cruelty-Free…	View on Amazon
	ARCTIC FOX Vegan and Cruelty-Free Semi-Permanent Hair Color…	View on Amazon
	Smart Beauty Blue Black Permanent Hair Dye, Vegan &…	View on Amazon
	Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Ultra Color Nourishing Creme,…	View on Amazon
	MOEHAIR Semi-Permanent Hair Color | Dark Blue Hair Dye 8…	View on Amazon

1. AGE beautiful Permanent Hair Color Dye Liqui Creme | 100%…

If you’re looking for a permanent dark blue hair dye that not only colors but also cares for your hair, the AGE beautiful Permanent Hair Color is a fantastic contender. This isn’t just a dye; it’s a fortifying treatment that’s designed to fight the signs of aging hair, making it a unique choice for those who want vibrant color without compromising hair health. I found that it truly helps achieve a rich, salon-worthy blue while also addressing concerns like thinning, dryness, and dullness, thanks to its special blend of Biotin, Melanin, Keratin Peptide & Silk Protein. It promises 100% gray coverage, which is a huge plus for many.

• Fights 5 signs of aging hair (thinning, wiry gray, turning gray, dryness, dullness)
• Contains Biotin, Melanin, Keratin Peptide & Silk Protein
• 100% gray coverage up to 8 weeks
• Gentle formulation
• Professional anti-aging hair color dye

Pros:
– Provides excellent gray coverage
– Improves hair’s condition and shine
– Formulated to make hair look fuller and silkier
– Resists fading effectively
– Professional-grade results at home

Cons:
– Permanent dye, so it’s a long-term commitment
– May require a separate developer (standard for permanent dyes)
– Color options for blue may lean more towards blue-black or deep indigo

Best for: Individuals seeking a permanent, deep dark blue or blue-black shade with comprehensive gray coverage and anti-aging hair benefits.

User feedback summary: Users consistently praise its ability to cover stubborn grays completely and leave hair feeling noticeably softer, shinier, and healthier. Many have found it to be a reliable choice for maintaining rich color and improving overall hair quality.

2. Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 1BB deepest blue…

Clairol Nice’n Easy has been a household name for decades, and for good reason. Their 1BB Deepest Blue Black shade is a popular choice for achieving a subtle yet striking dark blue hue on dark hair. What really stands out about this dye is its commitment to natural-looking color; it’s formulated with 3 tones and highlights to enhance your hair’s natural highs and lows, preventing that flat, one-dimensional look. The oil-infused formula is a nice touch, designed to smooth hair for better color uptake, and the included Revitashine Intense Treatment helps strengthen hair bonds for long-lasting color.

• 1BB Deepest Blue Black shade
• Permanent hair color with 100% gray coverage
• Features 3 tones and highlights for natural-looking results
• Oil-infused formula for better color uptake
• Includes Revitashine Intense Treatment for hair strength and color longevity

Pros:
– Reliable 100% gray coverage
– Achieves a beautiful, multi-tonal blue-black
– Easy to apply at home
– Conditioning treatment leaves hair soft and shiny
– Widely available and affordable

Cons:
– The blue might be very subtle, appearing mostly black with blue undertones in certain lighting
– Permanent dye, so there’s a commitment
– May not be vibrant enough for those seeking a bright blue

Best for: Anyone wanting a natural-looking, permanent blue-black shade with excellent gray coverage and added shine, especially if you prefer a subtle hint of blue.

User feedback summary: Users often highlight the ease of application and consistent gray coverage. Many appreciate how the blue-black shade adds depth and a unique shimmer to their dark hair without being too overpowering, making it a great everyday choice.

3. Adore Semi Permanent Hair Color – Vegan and Cruelty-Free…

For those who love to switch up their look without the long-term commitment, Adore Semi Permanent Hair Color in Sapphire Blue is an excellent option. What immediately drew me to Adore is its focus on being free from harsh chemicals like alcohol, peroxide, and ammonia, making it incredibly gentle on your hair and scalp. As a vegan and cruelty-free product, it’s a compassionate choice that doesn’t sacrifice vibrancy. You get a vivid, statement-making Sapphire Blue that applies smoothly and evenly for salon-quality results right in your bathroom. Plus, it’s proudly Made in the USA, ensuring high-quality standards.

• Vibrant Sapphire Blue shade
• Semi-permanent hair dye
• Free from harsh chemicals (alcohol, peroxide, ammonia, etc.)
• Vegan & Cruelty-Free formula
• Quick and easy to apply
• Made in the USA

Pros:
– Delivers truly vibrant blue color
– Gentle on hair, minimizes damage
– No need for a developer
– Temporary nature allows for frequent color changes
– Ethical and environmentally conscious choice

Cons:
– Color longevity varies depending on hair porosity and washing frequency
– May require pre-lightening for maximum vibrancy on very dark hair (though it can show up as a deep tint on unlightened dark hair)
– Can stain skin and porous surfaces if not careful

Best for: Individuals who want a vibrant, temporary dark blue hair dye that is gentle on their hair, vegan, and cruelty-free, perfect for experimenting.

User feedback summary: Many users rave about the brilliant, true-to-swatch blue color and how gentle the formula is. They often note that while it’s semi-permanent, it offers impressive longevity for its type and leaves hair feeling soft.

4. ARCTIC FOX Vegan and Cruelty-Free Semi-Permanent Hair Color…

Arctic Fox is a brand that has gained a cult following for its vibrant, ethical hair dyes, and their Poseidon shade is no exception for those seeking a deep blue. This vibrant, medium true blue is designed to make a serious statement. One of the best things about Arctic Fox is that it’s made from only vegan ingredients with no animal by-products and contains no harmful chemicals like peroxide, ammonia, or PPD. This means it’s gentle enough for frequent use and actually conditions your hair as it restores vibrancy. I appreciate that they even offer “AFProTips” like mixing it with Arctic Mist for pastel or Purple Rain to fight brassiness – that’s a sign of a brand that truly understands color.

• Poseidon – a vibrant, medium true blue
• Semi-permanent hair color
• Vegan and Cruelty-Free formula
• No harmful chemicals (peroxide, ammonia, PPD)
• Conditions hair as it colors
• Long-lasting color and sweet scent

Pros:
– Achieves a bold, beautiful true blue
– Acts as a conditioning treatment, leaving hair soft and healthy
– Ethical brand with a strong commitment to animal welfare
– Pleasant scent, unlike many chemical dyes
– Offers good longevity for a semi-permanent option

Cons:
– For the most vivid results, pre-lightening to a level 8 or lighter is recommended
– Semi-permanent, so it will fade over time
– Can be messy during application, like most vibrant dyes

Best for: Someone looking for a bold, true blue semi-permanent dye that also conditions their hair, and values vegan and cruelty-free products.

User feedback summary: Users are consistently impressed with the intense color payoff and how healthy and soft their hair feels after use. Many report that the color lasts well for a semi-permanent and absolutely love the pleasant, non-chemical scent.

5. Smart Beauty Blue Black Permanent Hair Dye, Vegan &…

Smart Beauty brings a permanent Blue Black hair dye designed specifically for dark hair, aiming to transform dark blonde-brown hair into a new, striking look. What sets this kit apart is the inclusion of a plex hair treatment, which works to protect, rebuild, and restore your hair’s structure during the coloring process. This is a huge benefit for anyone concerned about potential damage from permanent dyes. It’s a versatile option that promises full gray coverage and can be used for root touch-ups or balayage. Being vegan and cruelty-free, and produced by an independent British business committed to ethical practices, adds another layer of appeal. Plus, the mess-free application with a precision nozzle makes at-home coloring much simpler.

• Permanent Blue Black hair dye
• Includes plex hair treatment for protection and restoration
• Vegan, cruelty-free formulation
• Covers gray hair completely
• Mess-free application with precision nozzle
• Suitable for various coloring techniques

Pros:
– Permanent color with excellent longevity
– Plex treatment helps minimize damage and improve hair health
– Reliable gray coverage
– Ethical and sustainable brand values
– Easy and non-drip application process

Cons:
– The blue shade will be a deep blue-black, not a bright blue
– Permanent dye means a long-term commitment
– Less readily available in some regions compared to larger brands

Best for: Those who desire a permanent, deep blue-black shade with the added benefit of hair protection, and prefer vegan, cruelty-free, and ethically produced products.

User feedback summary: Users frequently mention how the included plex treatment makes a noticeable difference in hair feel post-dye. They appreciate the rich blue-black shade that shows up well on dark hair and the easy, non-drippy application process.

6. Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Ultra Color Nourishing Creme,…

Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color is specifically formulated with dark hair in mind, and their BL21 Blue Black (Blackberry Mojito) shade is a prime example. This permanent hair dye promises one of their deepest black shades with intense blue reflects, making it perfect for achieving that subtle yet vibrant blue shimmer. The Color Boost Technology is a key feature here, designed to help you achieve high-impact color in just one step, with up to 8 weeks of vibrancy. What truly sets Nutrisse apart is its nourishing formula, enriched with a blend of five fruit oils: Avocado, Olive, Coconut, Argan & Shea oils. These oils work to lock in moisture and color, leaving your hair smooth, silky, and protected against dryness. It’s also now available as a cruelty-free and vegan product.

• BL21 Blue Black (Blackberry Mojito) permanent hair dye
• Specifically designed for dark hair (light brown to black)
• Features Color Boost Technology for high-impact results
• Enriched with 5 fruit oils (Avocado, Olive, Coconut, Argan & Shea)
• Up to 8 weeks of vibrant color
• Cruelty-free and vegan formula

Pros:
– Excellent for dark hair, often without the need for pre-lightening
– Nourishing formula leaves hair soft and moisturized
– Provides intense blue reflects within a deep black base
– Long-lasting vibrancy for a permanent dye
– Affordable and widely accessible

Cons:
– The blue is more of a reflect or undertone rather than a standalone bright blue
– Permanent, requiring commitment
– Can be messy like many at-home dyes

Best for: Individuals with natural dark hair (light brown to black) who want a permanent, nourishing blue-black shade with intense blue reflects that lasts.

User feedback summary: Many users with dark hair are thrilled with how well this dye shows up without bleaching, praising its conditioning properties and the noticeable blue sheen in sunlight. They often mention the lovely scent and how soft their hair feels afterward.

7. MOEHAIR Semi-Permanent Hair Color | Dark Blue Hair Dye 8…

MOEHAIR Semi-Permanent Hair Color in Serenity Blue offers a truly experimental and gentle approach to achieving blue hair. This “hair paint” provides stunning shades of blue with hints of teal, azure, indigo, and cobalt, making it incredibly versatile for highlights, lowlights, or balayage. What really intrigued me is its claim of being intermixable with other shades to create custom hues – light, dark, intense, electric, neon, you name it! It’s a fantastic option for those who want to “unleash their vibrant side” without a long-term commitment, as it’s marketed as fading away in a couple of washes, perfect for a temporary pop of color. The formula is 100% cruelty-free and vegan, using natural plant extracts to enhance shine and prevent damage, being free of sulfate, paraben, and ammonia. Its non-drippy, creamy texture also makes DIY temporary hair color application at home incredibly easy.

• Serenity Blue with hints of teal, azure, indigo, and cobalt
• Semi-permanent hair color (very temporary, fades in a couple of washes)
• Intermixable with other shades for custom colors
• Cruelty-free and vegan formula with natural plant extracts
• Free of sulfate, paraben, and ammonia
• Non-drippy, creamy texture for easy DIY application

Pros:
– Offers a wide range of blue tones (teal, azure, indigo, cobalt)
– Highly customizable through intermixing
– Extremely gentle formula, no damage to hair
– Perfect for temporary color experiments and low commitment
– Ethical and nourishing ingredients

Cons:
– Very temporary; fades quickly (in a couple of washes)
– Best results often achieved on pre-lightened hair for maximum vibrancy
– May not provide deep saturation on very dark, unlightened hair

Best for: Hair enthusiasts who love to experiment with various blue shades on a very temporary basis, or for those seeking a gentle, customizable, and ethical color option for pre-lightened strands or a subtle tint on dark hair.

User feedback summary: Users consistently highlight its fantastic customizability and ease of use for short-term color experiments. They appreciate how gentle it is on the hair, making it a favorite for playful, non-committal color changes, especially for bright, vivid results on pre-lightened areas.

Comparison Insights for Choosing Your Dark Blue Hair Dye

When navigating the world of dark blue hair dyes for dark hair, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Here’s what I’ve learned about distinguishing between these great options.

First, consider permanence. If you’re looking for a lasting change and especially if you need 100% gray coverage, go for a permanent dye. Options like AGE beautiful, Clairol Nice’n Easy, Smart Beauty, and Garnier Nutrisse will give you that long-term commitment. AGE beautiful also brings anti-aging benefits, making it a unique choice for mature hair. Smart Beauty stands out with its plex treatment for added hair protection during the permanent coloring process. Garnier Nutrisse is formulated specifically to show up well on dark, unlightened hair, often delivering strong blue-black results without bleach.

On the other hand, if you love to experiment often or want a low-commitment pop of color, semi-permanent dyes are your best bet. Adore, Arctic Fox, and MOEHAIR fall into this category. Arctic Fox is famous for its vibrant, true blues and its conditioning properties, making your hair feel great. Adore offers a beautiful Sapphire Blue that’s free from harsh chemicals, a fantastic choice if gentleness is your top priority. MOEHAIR takes “temporary” to the next level, fading in just a couple of washes, and is incredibly intermixable, giving you endless custom shade possibilities. Remember, while semi-permanents can tint dark hair, for maximum vibrancy with these, a little pre-lightening usually helps the true color shine through.

Another crucial factor is the type of blue. Are you after a subtle blue-black shimmer that catches the light (Clairol, Smart Beauty, Garnier) or a bold, distinct blue (Adore, Arctic Fox, MOEHAIR)? The blue-black permanent dyes tend to blend more seamlessly with dark hair, adding a mysterious depth. The semi-permanents offer more intense, standalone blue shades.

Finally, for the ethically conscious, many brands are now vegan and cruelty-free. Adore, Arctic Fox, Smart Beauty, Garnier Nutrisse, and MOEHAIR all offer this peace of mind, allowing you to achieve stunning blue hair without compromising your values.

Final Verdict: Finding Your Shade of Blue

After diving deep into these best dark blue hair dyes for dark hair, it’s clear there’s a fantastic option for almost every need and preference.

For the long-term, nourishing commitment: If you want a permanent blue-black with reliable gray coverage and added hair health benefits, AGE beautiful Permanent Hair Color Dye Liqui Creme is an outstanding choice, especially if you’re concerned about aging hair. Similarly, Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Ultra Color BL21 Blue Black is excellent for delivering rich blue-black reflects on dark hair while deeply nourishing it.

For a subtle, natural blue-black: Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 1BB deepest blue black will give you a multi-tonal, sophisticated blue-black that looks incredibly natural and covers grays flawlessly.

For damage-conscious permanent blue-black: Smart Beauty Blue Black Permanent Hair Dye stands out with its integrated plex treatment, ensuring your hair is protected and rebuilt during the coloring process, alongside being vegan and cruelty-free.

For vibrant, conditioning semi-permanent blues: If you’re ready for a bolder, true blue that also leaves your hair feeling amazing, ARCTIC FOX Vegan and Cruelty-Free Semi-Permanent Hair Color in Poseidon is a fan favorite for good reason. For a gentler, no-harsh-chemicals option in a vivid sapphire, Adore Semi Permanent Hair Color is a winner.

For the ultimate short-term experimenter: If you want to try out different blue tones with minimal commitment and maximum customization, MOEHAIR Semi-Permanent Hair Color | Dark Blue Hair Dye is your go-to. Its quick fade and intermixable nature make it perfect for playful changes.

No matter which you choose, always remember to do a patch test first and follow the instructions carefully to ensure the best results for your unique dark hair!

Frequently Asked Questions about Dark Blue Hair Dye for Dark Hair

1. Do I need to bleach my dark hair to get blue hair?
Not always! While pre-lightening (bleaching) your hair will give you the most vibrant and true-to-swatch blue, many dark blue hair dyes for dark hair are formulated to deposit a rich, deep blue tint or blue-black shade without needing to bleach. Permanent blue-blacks like Garnier Nutrisse or Clairol Nice’n Easy often show up well on unlightened dark hair, creating a subtle blue sheen that’s visible in the light. Semi-permanent dyes will give more of a tint but generally require lighter hair for a really vibrant result.

2. How long does dark blue hair dye last on dark hair?
The longevity depends on whether you use a permanent or semi-permanent dye. Permanent dark blue hair dyes can last 6-8 weeks or longer, though the blue tones might gradually fade, leaving more of a black base. Semi-permanent dyes typically last anywhere from 2-8 weeks, with some very temporary options (like MOEHAIR) fading in just a couple of washes. Factors like how often you wash your hair, the type of shampoo you use, and sun exposure can also affect how quickly the color fades.

3. What’s the difference between “dark blue” and “blue-black” hair dye?
“Dark blue” hair dye aims for a distinctly blue shade that is deep and rich, often visible as blue even in ambient light. “Blue-black” hair dye, on the other hand, is primarily black hair with strong blue undertones or reflects. In most lighting, it looks black, but in sunlight or bright artificial light, you’ll see a beautiful, subtle blue shimmer. Many of the best dark blue hair dyes for dark hair that don’t require bleaching will lean towards a blue-black finish.

4. How can I make my dark blue hair dye last longer?
To help your dark blue hair dye last, use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for color-treated hair. Wash your hair with cool or lukewarm water, as hot water can strip color faster. Limit heat styling, and use heat protectants when you do. You can also use color-depositing conditioners between full dye jobs to refresh the blue tones. Protecting your hair from direct sunlight with hats or UV-protective sprays can also help prevent fading.

5. Are these dark blue hair dyes safe for my hair?
Most modern hair dyes, especially those listed as vegan and cruelty-free or gentle (like Adore, Arctic Fox, MOEHAIR), are formulated to be less damaging than older chemical dyes. However, any permanent dye uses chemicals to alter your hair’s structure, so there’s always a potential for some damage, especially with frequent use. Semi-permanent dyes are generally much gentler as they don’t penetrate the hair shaft as deeply. Always perform a patch test before applying the dye to your entire head to check for allergic reactions, and a strand test to see how the color will look and how your hair reacts.

6. Can I apply dark blue hair dye over previously colored hair?
Yes, you can, but the result might vary depending on your current hair color. If your hair is currently a dark shade, another dark blue dye should take. However, if your hair has a very different color (e.g., red or green), the blue might mix with the existing pigments, leading to an unexpected shade. It’s always a good idea to consult the dye’s instructions or a professional stylist for advice, especially if your hair is chemically treated or has layers of different colors. A strand test is crucial in this scenario.

7. Will dark blue hair dye stain my skin or bathroom?
Vibrant hair dyes, especially blues, can definitely stain! Take precautions:
– Apply petroleum jelly or a thick moisturizer along your hairline, ears, and neck.
– Wear gloves during application.
– Have old towels ready.
– Wipe up any spills on surfaces immediately with an all-purpose cleaner.
– For persistent skin stains, gentle rubbing alcohol or a specialized color remover can help, but test on a small area first.