Tinting your mane with a semi-permanent dye is an excellent way to change up your look and keep life interesting. When that dye is vegan, even better. Vegan hair dye contains zero animal-derived ingredients and is produced without animal testing. Here’s how to get the shade you want.
Zero peroxide, ammonia, ethyl alcohol or PPD. When it fades, it’ll stay in the same color family, so it’ll still be pretty, just lighter. ARCTIC FOX
If you find a color you like but want a more pastel version of it, buy a dilluter or just mix in some white conditioner until you get to the shade you want. Make sure you’ve got the right supplies—e.g. rubber mixing bowls and brushes—if you plan to go that route.
Unlike a semi-permanent dye, this sulfate- and paraben-free in-shower treatment adds just the slightest hint of hue. Keracolor
Color-depositing conditioner is a great way to maintain already-dyed hair. If you’ve tinted your mane and don’t want it to fade, add a color conditioner to your rotation to keep it vibrant. Just note that using a color conditioner that’s lighter than your natural color won’t change your hue, but it’ll still moisturize!
Launched in NYC’s ’80s punk scene by sisters Tish and Snooky Bellomo, this PPD-free pick features an array of semi-permanent shades that last around six weeks. MANIC PANIC
Because semi-permanent color sits on top of the hair shaft (instead of penetrating it), to go lighter than your natural shade (e.g. you’re a dark brunette who wants lilac locks), you’ll first need to bleach your strands, which can be tricky. Make sure to do your research first and definitely have someone help you—it’s easy to damage your tresses with bleach and even easier to end up a brassy orange.