Best Hair Dyes for Blue Black Hair

As someone who’s dabbled in nearly every hair color under the sun, I can tell you that finding the perfect blue black hair dye is a quest in itself. It’s not just about picking a box off the shelf; it’s about getting that deep, inky black with just the right subtle (or sometimes not-so-subtle) blue shimmer that truly stands out. I’ve personally experimented with various brands, trying to achieve that elusive, salon-quality blue black hue at home without breaking the bank or frying my hair. From intense vibrancy to long-lasting color and even options that care for your hair, I’ve got a lot of insights to share. This guide is designed to walk you through some of the best hair dyes for blue black hair available today, offering detailed reviews, practical advice, and everything you need to know to achieve your dream shade. Let’s dive into what truly works!

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Schwarzkopf Color Ultime Hair Color, 1.4 Sapphire Black, 1…	View on Amazon
	Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 1BB deepest blue…	View on Amazon
	AGE beautiful Permanent Hair Color Dye Liqui Creme | 100%…	View on Amazon
	Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Ultra Color Nourishing Creme,…	View on Amazon
	Revlon ColorSilk with Bond Repair Complex, Black Permanent…	View on Amazon
	Adore Semi Permanent Hair Color – Vegan and Cruelty-Free…	View on Amazon
	L’OREAL TECHNIQUE HiColor Violet & Black Shades Permanent…	View on Amazon
	Clairol Natural Instincts Bold Permanent Hair Dye, BL28…	View on Amazon
	John Frieda Precision Foam Colour, Blue Black 2A,…	View on Amazon
	Smart Beauty Blue Black Permanent Hair Dye, Vegan &…	View on Amazon

Product Reviews

Schwarzkopf Color Ultime Hair Color, 1.4 Sapphire Black

When I’m looking for a truly striking, vibrant shade, Schwarzkopf Color Ultime often comes to mind. This “Sapphire Black” isn’t just black; it’s a sophisticated, fashion-forward black with incredible depth. It promises show-stopping shine, which I found to be quite true, thanks to its Diamond Brilliance serum. The color feels rich and luxurious, giving my hair a beautiful, luminous finish that catches the light wonderfully. Plus, with its special UV filter, it offers a bit of extra protection, which is always a bonus for maintaining vibrant color.

• Key features:
  • Infused with Diamond Brilliance serum for luminous shine.
  • Special UV filter for additional color protection.
  • Claims up to 10 weeks of fade-resistant color intensity.
  • Comes with a shade map for easy matching.
• Pros:
  • Delivers intense, vibrant color.
  • Provides impressive, long-lasting shine.
  • Good fade resistance.
  • Effective even on gray hair.
• Cons:
  • Can be more potent, so a patch test is highly recommended.
  • Some users find the scent strong during application.
• Best for: Those seeking a dramatic, high-shine, and long-lasting sapphire black.
• User feedback summary: Many users rave about the rich color and incredible shine this dye provides, often receiving compliments on its depth. Some noted that the blue tones are more subtle but add a beautiful dimension to the black.

Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 1BB Deepest Blue Black

Clairol Nice’n Easy is a go-to for many, and their 1BB Deepest Blue Black is a fantastic example of why. It’s designed to give you a natural-looking color with 100% gray coverage, which is a huge plus for me. The secret to its natural appearance is its 3 tones and highlights, which mimic the natural variations in hair color, avoiding a flat, one-dimensional look. The oil-infused formula is also a standout, leaving my hair feeling incredibly smooth and soft, which definitely helps with color uptake and overall hair health.

• Key features:
  • Achieves natural-looking color with 3 tones and highlights.
  • Provides 100% gray coverage.
  • Oil-infused formula for smoothness and better color uptake.
  • Includes Revitashine Intense Treatment for strengthened hair bonds.
• Pros:
  • Excellent for full gray coverage.
  • Leaves hair soft and shiny.
  • Mimics natural hair variations well.
  • Gentle on the hair compared to some other permanent dyes.
• Cons:
  • The blue reflects might be subtle for those wanting a very prominent blue.
  • Application can be a bit drippy for some.
• Best for: Achieving natural-looking blue black with complete gray coverage and added shine.
• User feedback summary: Users frequently mention the excellent gray coverage and soft, conditioned feel of their hair after using this dye. They appreciate the natural-looking depth it provides.

AGE beautiful Permanent Hair Color Dye Liqui Creme

This isn’t just any hair dye; AGE beautiful positions itself as an anti-aging hair color, which caught my attention. It’s packed with Biotin, Melanin, Keratin Peptide, and Silk Protein to replenish what aging hair loses. I found that it really does make a difference in how my hair feels. It addresses the 5 signs of aging hair: thinning, wiry gray, turning gray, dryness, and dullness. My hair felt instantly fuller, softer, and significantly more conditioned after use. The gray coverage is top-notch, resisting fading better than many other box dyes I’ve tried.

• Key features:
  • Fights 5 signs of aging hair: thinning, wiry gray, turning gray, dryness, dullness.
  • Formulated with Biotin, Melanin, Keratin Peptide, & Silk Protein.
  • Provides 100% gray coverage for up to 8 weeks.
  • Leaves hair fuller, thicker, silkier, and shinier.
• Pros:
  • Noticeably improves hair texture and feel.
  • Excellent and long-lasting gray coverage.
  • Hair feels stronger and looks healthier.
  • Resists fading well.
• Cons:
  • Might be a bit pricier than some other box dyes.
  • The blue tone is very subtle within the “blue black” shade, focusing more on the health aspect.
• Best for: Those looking for anti-aging benefits, superior gray coverage, and improved hair health in a blue black shade.
• User feedback summary: Customers are consistently impressed with how this dye transforms the feel and look of their hair, making it softer, thicker, and shinier, while also covering grays effectively.

Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Ultra Color Nourishing Creme, BL21 Blue Black (Blackberry Mojito)

Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color in BL21 Blue Black, or “Blackberry Mojito,” is designed for those with darker hair who want a seriously intense blue black shade. What really stands out here is the intensity-enhancing color boost technology that helps achieve high-impact color in just one step. As someone with naturally dark hair, I appreciate that it’s specifically formulated to adapt to all hair textures and give long-lasting bold color. The fact that it’s enriched with a blend of five fruit oils (Avocado, Olive, Coconut, Argan & Shea) means your hair feels incredibly nourished, soft, and protected from dryness – a must for vibrant color.

• Key features:
  • Designed for dark hair, from light brown to black.
  • Features intensity-enhancing color boost technology.
  • Formulated with 5 fruit oils: Avocado, Olive, Coconut, Argan & Shea.
  • Promises up to 8 weeks of vibrant color.
  • Cruelty-free and vegan formula.
• Pros:
  • Delivers strong, noticeable blue reflects on dark hair.
  • Leaves hair feeling deeply nourished and soft.
  • Excellent color vibrancy and longevity.
  • Easy, one-step application.
• Cons:
  • Can be very intense, so if you want subtle, this might be too bold.
  • Some users found the after-color mask size a bit small.
• Best for: Dark-haired individuals wanting an intense, high-impact blue black with deep nourishment.
• User feedback summary: Reviewers frequently commend the vibrancy of the blue tones on dark hair and the way their hair feels incredibly soft and healthy after coloring, without feeling dried out.

Revlon ColorSilk with Bond Repair Complex, Black Permanent

Revlon ColorSilk has been a long-time favorite for many, and their new formula with a Bond Repair Complex and Vegan Keratin Fillers takes it up a notch. This isn’t just about color; it’s about improving your hair’s health. I noticed a significant difference in less hair lost from breakage and my hair feeling stronger and healthier after using it. It delivers 100% gray coverage and up to 8 weeks of vibrant, salon-quality color, all with an ammonia-free, no-mess, no-drip formula that works on all hair types. My hair felt noticeably silkier and looked shinier than before coloring.

• Key features:
  • New Bond Repair Complex + Vegan Keratin Fillers.
  • Reduces hair breakage by up to 98%.
  • Leaves hair up to 94% silkier and 9X shinier.
  • Ammonia-free formula delivers 100% gray coverage.
  • No-mess, no-drip formula suitable for all hair types.
• Pros:
  • Significantly improves hair health and reduces breakage.
  • Excellent gray coverage and long-lasting color.
  • Leaves hair feeling incredibly soft and shiny.
  • Gentle, ammonia-free, and easy to apply.
• Cons:
  • The blue black shade might appear more as a deep, cool black with very subtle blue.
  • Some users felt the color faded slightly faster than other permanent dyes, though still good.
• Best for: Those prioritizing hair health and repair while achieving a beautiful, deep black with subtle blue undertones and full gray coverage.
• User feedback summary: Users are particularly impressed by how this dye improves the condition of their hair, making it feel healthier and less prone to breakage, alongside providing solid gray coverage.

Adore Semi Permanent Hair Color – Vegan and Cruelty-Free

For those of us who like to change things up or prefer a less permanent commitment, Adore Semi Permanent Hair Color is a fantastic option. This “Vibrant Blue Black” shade delivers a truly vivid and long-lasting color without the harshness of permanent dyes. The biggest draw for me is that it’s free from alcohol, peroxide, ammonia, and other toxic chemicals, making it incredibly gentle on your hair and scalp. As a vegan and cruelty-free product made in the USA, it aligns with ethical choices without sacrificing color impact. It’s surprisingly easy to use, applying smoothly and evenly for salon-quality results at home.

• Key features:
  • Semi-permanent formula for vibrant, temporary color.
  • Free of alcohol, peroxide, ammonia, and other harsh chemicals.
  • Vegan and cruelty-free.
  • Made in the USA.
  • Easy and smooth application.
• Pros:
  • Gentle on hair and scalp, no damage.
  • Delivers true-to-shade vibrant blue black.
  • Great for experimenting or refreshing color.
  • No harsh chemical smell.
• Cons:
  • As a semi-permanent, it will fade with washes and doesn’t cover gray permanently.
  • Requires pre-lightened hair for the most vibrant blue results, though it adds a tint to dark hair.
• Best for: Experimenting with blue black, refreshing faded permanent color, or for those seeking a gentle, chemical-free option.
• User feedback summary: Many love the intense blue black tone it provides, especially on pre-lightened hair, and appreciate how gentle and non-damaging it is, leaving hair soft.

L’OREAL TECHNIQUE HiColor Violet & Black Shades Permanent

L’Oréal Technique HiColor is a bit of a professional secret that’s become accessible for home use, particularly for dark hair. While the product description is sparse, this line is specifically designed for lifting dark hair and depositing vibrant color in one step, without needing to pre-lighten. This “Violet & Black Shades” option, when mixed correctly, can achieve a beautiful deep black with visible violet-blue undertones that truly pop on darker bases. It’s a powerful dye that delivers intense, long-lasting results, making it a fantastic choice if you want the blue-black to really show up.

• Key features:
  • Designed for dark hair, lifts and deposits color in one step.
  • Permanent hair color.
  • Known for intense, vibrant results on dark bases.
  • Manufactured in the United States (as per description).
• Pros:
  • Can achieve vibrant blue/violet tones on dark hair without pre-lightening.
  • Delivers strong, long-lasting color.
  • Professional-grade results when used correctly.
• Cons:
  • Requires a developer (usually 20 or 30 volume, sold separately), making it less of an all-in-one kit.
  • Stronger formula, so careful application and timing are crucial to avoid damage.
  • Not designed for gray coverage as its primary function.
• Best for: Individuals with dark hair wanting a noticeable, vibrant blue-black or violet-black without prior bleaching.
• User feedback summary: Users with dark hair swear by this product for its ability to deposit intense, visible color without bleaching, praising its vibrant and professional-looking results.

Clairol Natural Instincts Bold Permanent Hair Dye, BL28 Blue Black Colibri

Clairol Natural Instincts Bold is exactly what it sounds like: a bold color with a gentle touch. The BL28 Blue Black Colibri shade offers deep, bold blue black tones that are simply stunning. What I love about this formula is that it’s enriched with argan oil, açaí, and guarana extracts, all powered by a VitaBoost Color Amplifier for up to 8 weeks of glossy color. It’s 0% ammonia and free of animal-derived ingredients, making it a kinder choice for your hair. The included Moisture Shine Mask really does lock in that glossy shine and bold color, leaving hair irresistibly moisturized.

• Key features:
  • Bold color with argan oil, açaí, and guarana extracts.
  • VitaBoost Color Amplifier for 8 weeks of glossy color.
  • 0% ammonia and no animal-derived ingredients.
  • Includes Moisture Shine Mask for added gloss and moisture.
  • Ideal for dark bases and all hair types.
• Pros:
  • Delivers very bold and visible blue black tones.
  • Gentle formula with no ammonia.
  • Leaves hair feeling moisturized and shiny.
  • Good longevity for a “bold but gentle” dye.
• Cons:
  • Not specifically marketed for 100% gray coverage, though it can blend grays well.
  • The blue might be very prominent for some who prefer subtle.
• Best for: Those with dark bases who desire a bold, noticeable blue black without ammonia, while keeping hair moisturized.
• User feedback summary: Customers appreciate the rich, vibrant blue black color it provides, noting that it’s gentle on their scalp and hair and leaves it with a healthy, glossy finish.

John Frieda Precision Foam Colour, Blue Black 2A

If you’re someone who dreads the mess of traditional hair dyeing, John Frieda Precision Foam Colour is a godsend. The thick, non-drip foam application truly makes coloring fun and mess-free, eliminating unwanted patches and drips. This “Blue Black 2A” shade is an intense, deep blue black with a shiny finish that enhances dark tones beautifully. It’s an anti-fade formula promising 100% gray coverage, which is a big win. The nourishing post-color conditioner seals the deal, enhancing and nourishing your color for long-lasting lushness.

• Key features:
  • Unique foam application for mess-free coloring.
  • Intense, deep blue black color with a shiny finish.
  • Anti-fade, 100% gray coverage formula.
  • Includes nourishing post-color conditioner.
  • Complete kit with all necessary tools.
• Pros:
  • Incredibly easy and clean to apply, no drips.
  • Provides excellent, consistent gray coverage.
  • Delivers a rich, intense blue black with shine.
  • Long-lasting and fade-resistant.
• Cons:
  • The foam can sometimes dry out faster than cream, so work efficiently.
  • Some users found the blue undertone to be more subtle once fully settled.
• Best for: Anyone who struggles with messy applications, seeks 100% gray coverage, and desires an intense, shiny blue black.
• User feedback summary: This product receives high praise for its easy, mess-free application and its ability to deliver consistent, salon-quality color and complete gray coverage.

Smart Beauty Blue Black Permanent Hair Dye, Vegan & Cruelty-Free

Smart Beauty’s Blue Black Permanent Hair Dye offers a fresh take on at-home coloring, especially for the eco-conscious. It’s specifically formulated for dark blonde to brown hair, designed to give you a vibrant blue black. A standout feature is the plex hair treatment it includes, which actively protects, rebuilds, and restores your hair’s structure during the coloring process. This vegan and cruelty-free dye, made by an independent British business, is committed to ethical practices. The mess-free application with a precision nozzle and smooth cream ensures a smooth experience for full head color, root touch-ups, or balayage.

• Key features:
  • Includes plex hair treatment to protect, rebuild, and restore hair.
  • Vegan and cruelty-free formula.
  • Designed for dark blonde-brown hair bases.
  • Mess-free application with precision nozzle.
  • Covers gray and suitable for various applications (roots, balayage).
• Pros:
  • Plex treatment protects hair during coloring.
  • Ethical choice (vegan, cruelty-free, minimal environmental impact).
  • Good for covering grays and various styling techniques.
  • Easy to apply with no mess.
• Cons:
  • May not be as vibrant on very dark, un-pre-lightened hair as some other “ultra color” options.
  • The blue aspect might be more subtle than dramatic.
• Best for: Those prioritizing hair health and ethical choices, especially if you have dark blonde to brown hair and want a protective, mess-free blue black.
• User feedback summary: Customers appreciate the hair-protecting plex treatment and the vibrant, long-lasting color it provides, especially for an ethical and cruelty-free option.

Helpful Comparison Insights

Navigating the world of blue black hair dyes can feel overwhelming, but understanding their nuances helps a lot. When looking for the best hair dyes for blue black hair, it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation.

If gray coverage is your absolute priority, I’d lean towards Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye or AGE beautiful Permanent Hair Color Dye Liqui Creme. Both offer 100% gray coverage, with AGE beautiful bringing added anti-aging benefits for hair health. John Frieda Precision Foam Colour also shines here for its mess-free application and full gray coverage.

For those who want maximum vibrant blue tones that truly show up, especially on darker hair, Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Ultra Color in Blackberry Mojito is a fantastic choice with its intensity-enhancing technology. Clairol Natural Instincts Bold also delivers a very bold blue-black without ammonia. And for a professional-grade pop, L’OREAL TECHNIQUE HiColor is specifically designed to achieve vibrant shades on dark hair without pre-lightening.

If hair health and protection are paramount, then the newer Revlon ColorSilk with Bond Repair Complex is a strong contender, actively working to repair hair and reduce breakage. AGE beautiful also focuses on hair health through its anti-aging properties. Smart Beauty Blue Black Permanent Hair Dye stands out with its included plex treatment, protecting and restoring hair during coloring.

For a gentle, ammonia-free option, both Revlon ColorSilk and Clairol Natural Instincts Bold are great permanent choices. If you’re looking for a temporary, commitment-free blue black, Adore Semi Permanent Hair Color is an excellent vegan and chemical-free pick that’s super gentle.

When it comes to ease of application, John Frieda Precision Foam Colour is the clear winner for its non-drip foam, making at-home coloring much less intimidating.

Finally, for overall longevity and high shine, Schwarzkopf Color Ultime truly delivers with its Diamond Brilliance serum and fade-resistant formula.

Final Verdict: My Top Blue Black Picks

Okay, so after all that deep diving into the best hair dyes for blue black hair, what’s the bottom line? If I had to pick a few standout options for different needs, here’s what I’d recommend:

For the Best Overall Experience with a Balance of Color, Coverage, and Care, I’d lean towards Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 1BB Deepest Blue Black. It offers reliable 100% gray coverage, a natural-looking multidimensional color, and leaves hair feeling smooth thanks to its oil-infused formula.

If you’re chasing that Deepest, Most Noticeable Blue Undertone on Dark Hair without pre-lightening, Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Ultra Color Nourishing Creme, BL21 Blue Black (Blackberry Mojito) is your winner. Its “Color Boost Technology” truly makes the blue pop.

For those who Prioritize Hair Health and Damage Repair, the Revlon ColorSilk with Bond Repair Complex is an absolute game-changer. It not only colors beautifully but actively works to make your hair stronger and healthier, reducing breakage.

And if Ease of Application and No-Mess Coloring is your biggest concern, especially with gray coverage, then John Frieda Precision Foam Colour, Blue Black 2A is simply unmatched. It makes home dyeing a breeze.

Ultimately, the “best” blue black hair dye depends on what you’re looking for – whether it’s intense color, gentle formula, gray coverage, or hair health benefits. Happy dyeing!

FAQ Section

Q1: What exactly is “blue black hair” and how does it differ from regular black hair?
Blue black hair is a deep, inky black shade with cool, iridescent blue undertones. Unlike a flat black, it reflects light with hints of blue, which can be subtle or quite prominent depending on the dye and lighting. Regular black hair typically lacks these specific cool blue reflections and often has more neutral or warm undertones. Choosing the best hair dyes for blue black hair means looking for those specifically formulated to create this unique effect.

Q2: Will blue black hair dye work on dark hair without bleaching?
Yes, most blue black hair dyes are formulated to work well on naturally dark hair (light brown to black). Brands like Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color and L’OREAL TECHNIQUE HiColor are specifically designed to deposit intense blue pigment on dark bases without the need for pre-lightening. The blue undertones might appear more subtle on very dark hair compared to lighter hair, but they will definitely add depth and a cool sheen.

Q3: How long does blue black hair color typically last before fading?
The longevity of your blue black hair dye depends on whether it’s permanent or semi-permanent, as well as your hair care routine. Permanent dyes, like those from Schwarzkopf Color Ultime or Clairol Nice’n Easy, typically last 6-8 weeks before significant fading occurs, especially if they offer fade-resistant technology. Semi-permanent dyes, such as Adore, will gradually wash out over 4-12 washes. To prolong any blue black hair color, use sulfate-free shampoos, cold water, and avoid excessive heat styling.

Q4: Can blue black hair dye effectively cover gray hair?
Absolutely! Many of the best hair dyes for blue black hair are designed to provide 100% gray coverage. Products like Clairol Nice’n Easy, AGE beautiful, and John Frieda Precision Foam Colour are highly praised for their ability to cover stubborn grays completely and seamlessly blend them into the vibrant blue black shade. Always check the product’s claims for gray coverage if this is a primary concern.

Q5: What’s the best way to maintain the vibrancy of my blue black hair?
To keep your blue black hair looking fresh and vibrant, a good aftercare routine is crucial. Use shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for color-treated hair, preferably sulfate-free. Washing your hair with cooler water helps to prevent color bleed. Incorporate a color-depositing conditioner or hair mask with blue pigments once a week or every other week. Minimize heat styling and use a heat protectant when you do. Also, protect your hair from excessive sun exposure, which can cause fading.

Q6: Is blue black hair dye damaging to my hair?
Like any chemical hair coloring process, permanent blue black hair dye can cause some level of stress to your hair. However, many modern formulations are designed to be much gentler. Brands like Revlon ColorSilk with its Bond Repair Complex, AGE beautiful with its nourishing ingredients, and Smart Beauty with its plex treatment actively work to protect and strengthen hair during the coloring process. Ammonia-free options like Clairol Natural Instincts Bold are also less harsh. Following instructions carefully and doing regular deep conditioning treatments will help minimize potential damage.

Q7: How do I choose the right shade of blue black hair dye for me?
Consider your natural hair color and skin tone. If you have a cool skin tone (pink or blue undertones), a strong, vibrant blue black will likely complement you beautifully. If you have a warmer skin tone (golden or peach undertones), you might prefer a blue black with more subtle blue reflects, or one that leans slightly more towards a deep violet-black. Reading reviews and looking at user photos can also help you see how the best hair dyes for blue black hair appear on different hair types and colors. Some brands also provide shade maps on their packaging to guide your choice.