At-home hair color can be a quick and easy solution, but of all the colors out there, blonde can be the trickiest to DIY. Generally speaking, if your natural hue is super dark and/or you’re looking to achieve a super light (think platinum) result, it’s best to save the blonding process for the pros. That being said, if you want to brighten or tweak your existing blonde or aren’t making a big color transition, go ahead and take matters into your own hands. When it comes to creating a successful DIY blonde, seek out products that come in a variety of hues so that you can find the best shade for you. Warmer tones (think golden, honey, even butterscotch hues) are choices for warmer complexions, while cooler shades (ash, wheat) are particularly pretty on those with cooler complexions. Also important: find formulas with nourishing and hydrating ingredients built-in since coloring your hair, and lightening it in particular, can be drying and damaging. We conducted hours of research on the best blonde hair dyes, evaluating each on formula type, active ingredients, and ease of application. We also took different hair types and concerns into consideration—as well as whether you're looking to highlight, blend, or cover. After considering dozens of options and consulting with expert colorist Kristen Fleming, we landed on these best in show. Our Top Picks Best Permanent Color: Best Semi-Permanent Color: Clairol Natural Instincts Demi-Permanent Hair Dye at Amazon ($37) Best for Highlights & Root Touch-Ups: Best for Damaged Hair: Best for Easy Application: Best Lightening Shampoo: In This Article Our Picks Where We Stand How We Researched What To Look For FAQ Why Trust Byrdie What We Like Comes with hydrating conditioner and grapeseed 14 shades of blonde to choose from 100% gray coverage What We Don't Like Reviewers note color doesn't match box Whether you want to conceal tell-tale dark roots, blend in some grays, or score an entirely new color, this dye can do it all (and all without the bleach). This brand offers 45 shades, including a nice mix of 14 blonde options. The dye is packed with moisturizing ingredients like avocado, olive, and shea oils, as well as a separate vial of vitamin E-rich grapeseed oil and an ultra-hydrating conditioner to use immediately post-coloring. Soft, shiny, blonde hair, here you come. If you’re committed to coloring your hair at home, this formula—which comes with additional hydrating products—is pretty foolproof. That said, some reviews said the color they achieved didn’t match the box, but that could be because of their original level of blonde. Active Ingredients: Avocado, olive, and shea oils | Type: Permanent | Shades: 14 (blonde) | Size: 1 kit | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Affordable Mess-free Ammonia-free What We Don’t Like Reviewers note color doesn't match box At-home hair color is affordable by definition (certainly more so than a trip to the salon), but ringing in at less than $5 per box, this kit takes the cake. Of the 41 shades, 13 are varieties of blonde, not to mention that a lot of the lighter brown shades could easily read as dark blonde, too. We love that the non-drip gel is very easy to use without messing up your bathroom and the formula is free from ammonia (an irritant used in many hair dye formulas) as well. Be aware that many reviews noted their end result didn’t quite match the shade on the box. If you’re trying to achieve your dream blonde shade on a budget, this box dye should get you there. Active Ingredients: Keratin, silk amino acids | Type: Permanent | Shades: 7 (blondes) | Size: 1 kit | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Ultra glossy finish Fade-resistant Trendy colors available What We Don't Like Brassy results; may need a toning shampoo Even though this product has been around since 1973, it remains an at-home hair color staple, particularly for blondes. There are—wait for it—18 different blonde tones to choose from, ranging from pale platinum to strawberry blonde to a trendy lilac blonde. It also comes with a conditioner-meets-shine-serum hybrid that imparts mirror-like glossiness from root to tip. Plus, the color is fade-resistant, so it should stay strong for up to eight weeks. It’s worth noting that some reviewers thought the finished result left their hair a tad brassy, so you might want to grab a toner, too. If you like to shop for beauty staples at the drugstore, this classic hair dye from L’Oreal should be in your cart. Active Ingredients: Golden camelina oil, vitamin E | Type: Permanent | Shades: 18 (blonde) | Size: 0.35 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No What We Like Ammonia- and PPD-free Money back guarantee Enriched with moisturizing argan oil and keratin What We Don't Like Pricier than other options This kit contains everything you need to get near-professional results at home: Radiant Cream Color, conditioning color activator, two pairs of gloves, a cap, a barrier cream and a cleansing wipe (to prevent the dye getting onto your skin), and a color protecting shampoo and conditioner. Each of the four blonde shades available is multi-tonal and dimensional (read: appears natural) and is free from ammonia and paraphenylenediamine (PPD), which is a known irritant and allergen. The formula is also enriched with nourishing keratin (a protein that aids hair strength and growth) and argan oil (a natural hydrator rich in fatty acids and antioxidants). We appreciate that the kit comes with everything you need to safely dye your hair at-home, and that the brand has a money-back guarantee; if for some reason you don’t love your color, they’ll refund you completely. Active Ingredients: Argan oil, keratin, and ginseng root extract | Type: Permanent | Shades: 4 (blonde) | Size: 1.7 oz. (Radiant Cream Color), 2.5 oz. (Conditioning Color Activator), 0.7 oz. (Barrier Cream), 0.5 oz. (Color Protecting Shampoo), 0.5 oz. (Color Protecting Conditioner) | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Hydrates hair with squalane and orchid extract Easy to use Adds shine What We Don’t Like Reviewers say the formula isn’t as effective on grey hair Colorist-developed and professional-grade, this is one of the most high-performing at-home options we’ve seen. It’s also specially formulated to ensure your hair stays in the best shape possible; it’s enriched with squalane (a moisturizing, shine-enhancing ingredient) and orchid extract (a natural hydrator that helps smooth the hair). Yes, please to all of the above. And as far as blondes go, there are seven shades to choose from—not a ton but all extremely natural-looking and with a variety of undertones. If you’re ready for a permanent change in your hair color, this expert-created formula will provide the vibrant, long-lasting results you normally have to visit a salon for. One caveat: some reviewers said this formula wasn’t the most effective for covering grey hair. Active Ingredients: Squalane, orchid extract, bamboo extract | Type: Permanent | Shades: 7 (blondes) | Size: 0.07 fl. oz. (Protect 1 Color Block Barrier Gel), 1.7 fl. oz. (Color 2 Rich Cream Pigment), 2.5 fl. oz. (Activate 3 Nourishing Color Developer), 0.23 fl. oz. (Treat 4 Post Color Treatment Mask), 0.07 fl. oz. (Erase 5 Stain-Removing Cleanser) | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Hydrating formula using coconut oil and aloe Affordable Ammonia-free 80% naturally-derived ingredients What We Don't Like Gray coverage could be better If you’re not exactly sure which shade of blonde you’re going for or just don’t like to commit to a color, a semi-permanent color option is the way to go. Unlike permanent color, these formulas fade out gradually every time you shampoo. Our go-to in this category lasts up to 28 washes and works in just 10 minutes. Not to mention that it’s also made with 80% naturally-derived ingredients, including good-for-your hair coconut oil and aloe vera – two natural moisturizers that will help leave your locks soft and smooth. If you’re not ready to commit to a new shade for good, this semi-permanent color will let you try it out for approximately 28 washes. It also boasts a more natural formula than other chemical-heavy dyes, which is a bonus if you’re trying to be more conscious in that arena. Active Ingredients: Coconut oil, aloe vera | Type: Demi-permanent | Shades: 8 (blonde) | Size: 1 kit | Cruelty-Free: No What We Like Easy to use Counteracts brassiness Impressive highlighting effect What We Don't Like Only works on hair that’s already blonde Highlights are a very tricky technique to master (read: you probably should leave it up to the pros), but you can easily score a similar effect with this simple solution. Lemon juice plus hydrogen peroxide in the formula work to slightly lighten your hair, while the brush tip makes it easy to apply on targeted strands to create that highlight effect. (It’s also infused with purple pigments to counteract brassiness and keep your blonde bright.) Work it onto damp or dry hair; it’s heat-activated, so you can either hit it with a blow-dryer or let it do its thing naturally once you go out in the sun. Just FYI, this is meant for those who are already blonde and want to go lighter, so don’t try it if you’re a brunette. Active Ingredients: Lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide | Shades: 1 | Size: 0.65 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Dermatologist tested Moisturizing formula with argan oil and oat milk Ammonia-, PPD-, and alcohol-free What We Don't Like Reviewers note color doesn't match box If years of coloring have taken a toll on your hair, it’s more important than ever to make sure that every time you do color, it’s with a gentle, nourishing product. Enter this formula from Schwarzkopf. It earns big points for being ammonia-free; it also doesn’t contain PPD, a common ingredient in many permanent hair color formulas that can cause some seriously problematic allergic reactions. What it does contain is a plethora of good-for-your hair ingredients, like mega-moisturizing argan oil, botanical oat milk (a natural moisturizer, high in antioxidants and vitamin E), and soy protein, which has been shown to help strengthen hair. If your parched or damaged strands need a gentler approach to dying, this hydrating, hair-strengthening formula is for you. Active Ingredients: Botanical oat milk, soy protein, argan oil | Type: Permanent | Shades: 5 (blonde) | Size: 2 fl. oz. (Tube Color Cream), 2 fl. oz. (Applicator Bottle with Developer Lotion), 1.7 fl. oz. (Tube Nourishing Conditioner) | Cruelty-Free: No What We Like Mess-free Ammonia-free Moisturizing formula with aloe vera What We Don't Like Not for those looking for full coverage The airy, mousse-like texture of this formula makes DIY-ing a total breeze (not to mention completely mess-free). It’s the first ammonia-free foam hair color out there and is also free of PPD and resorcinol (an often-used chemical and known endocrine disruptor). Instead, it's loaded with good-for-you hair ingredients such as aloe and chamomile (a natural hair lightener with strengthening properties). Atomic Blonde is the brand’s only blonde formula and it does a good job of lightening blonde and bronde base tones, providing vibrant demi-permanent color that will gradually fade within 4 to 6 weeks (note that if you’re looking for a full-coverage dye, Hally Color isn’t the best option). We also love that the brand gives back 1% of profits to mental health organizations that provide resources to BIPOC and LGBTQ+ youth. If you get frustrated with the mess of most box dyes, this easy-to-apply foaming hair dye will make you a convert of DIY application. Active Ingredients: Chamomile, lavender, ginseng, aloe | Type: Demi-permanent | Shades: 2 (blonde) | Size: 1 kit | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Provides natural-looking effects Ammonia- and peroxide-free Works on all hair colors What We Don't Like Slow results Both DIY hair color beginners and those just looking for a super subtle change will appreciate this lightening shampoo. It works gradually, brightening and lightening your base color to make it look naturally sun-kissed each time you suds up (credit citrus and chamomile extracts - both natural highlighters). The formula is free of both ammonia and peroxide, making it very gentle. It works on all shades of natural, color-treated, and highlighted blonde, but reviews say it can take time to see results. If you already have blonde hair and want to gradually enhance your shade, this toning shampoo provides a handy dose of daily lightening. Active Ingredients: Natural Lightening Complex | Shades: 1 | Size: 8.3 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No What We Like Restores hair pH Strengthening Works for all hair types What We Don't Like Can be drying Simply put, lightening your hair, whether at home or the salon, takes a toll on your hair. This sudser boasts citric acid, which restores your hair’s natural pH (which is altered when you lighten it) and helps to reinforce the protein bonds that are damaged during the lightening process. It leaves your hair stronger and healthier-looking, which in turn is just going to make your blonde hue look that much better. And it isn’t just for shades of blonde—it works on any shade of lightened hair (we’re looking at you, reds and warm browns). There’s no denying that lightening your hair can leave it damaged and dry. This shampoo helps restore strength and shine, for healthier strands. Active Ingredients: Citric acid | Shades: 1 | Size: 10.1 oz. or 33.8 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No What We Like Long-lasting 100% gray coverage 30 blonde shade options What We Don't Like Reviewers note color doesn't match box Every skin tone needs a different shade of blonde, which is why we appreciate the wide variety of blonde tones to choose from in this line. We’re talking over 30 shades, ranging from icy cool to warm caramel to buttery strawberry blonde and everything in between. No matter which one you choose, the permanent color is a great long-lasting option and also has the added benefit of offering 100% gray coverage, too. Unfortunately, some reviewers said the final result didn’t match the shade pictured on the box, which is sometimes the case with box dyes. If you’re on a search for the ultimate shade of blonde to suit your skin tone, you’ll likely find it amid this expansive range. Active Ingredients: N/A | Type: Permanent | Shades: 35 (blonde) | Size: 1.42 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No What We Like Made by professional colorists Long-lasting Completely custom color and formula What We Don't Like Ingredients not listed online since its customizable Like we said, going blonde can be tricky, and finding the best shade for you can make all the difference. Enter the beauty of this personalized option, which combines in-salon expertise with the ease of at-home coloring. You create a profile, answering questions about both your existing color and where you want to end up. A pro colorist then blends up a shade (and formula; they offer both permanent and demi-permanent color) made especially for you, which takes into account not only your hair color but also things such as texture and length. You even get personalized instructions. Given how tough blonde can be to DIY, it’s a great way to ensure you end up with the best blonde hue for you. If you’re a discerning type who wants guidance from a pro colorist while attempting an at-home dye, this personalized formula service is just the thing. Active Ingredients: N/A | Type: Permanent, demi-permanent | Shades: Custom | Size: 1.9 fl. oz. (color) and 2.5 fl. oz. (developer) | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Works on all hair colors Adds shine Easy to use What We Don’t Like Pricier than other options As the name suggests, think of this gloss as the hair equivalent of a topcoat for your nails. No matter what shade of blonde you’re sporting (whether you had it done at the salon or went the DIY route) using this weekly or bi-weekly is the ideal way to add mega-watt shine to your color. It softens and smooths like a conditioner, too, thanks to hydrating oat milk and camellia oil (a fatty acid-rich oil that locks in moisture) in the formula, and works in just five minutes. Consider it the best way to quickly and easily revive your blonde and make it look like you just stepped out of the salon. If your blonde is looking a little lackluster recently, this glossy “top coat” will help amp up the shine factor. Active Ingredients: Oat milk, camellia oil | Type: Gloss | Shades: 1 | Size: 6.7 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes Overall, our favorite blond hair dye is the Garnier Nutrisse Nourishing Color Creme because it’s a super conditioning formula that comes in a nice array of blonde shades. We also love our budget pick Revlon Colorsilk Permanent Hair Color for it’s non-drip gel, wide array of blonde shades, and super affordable price of $5. To compile this list, our team of editors and contributors spent hours researching the best products on the market in this category, in addition to reviews from customers and other trusted sources. We then used this research to assign a star rating from one to five (five being the best; one being the worst) to products (the ones with the highest ratings made this list). Finally, we consulted an expert colorist to settle on the top options. Key features we evaluated: FAQ Can you dye your hair blonde without bleaching it? Only if your hair is light brown or dark blonde naturally, as at-home blonde hair dyes can usually only lift three levels or lights, colorist Kristen Fleming says. Keep in mind, blonde hair dye also isn’t going to lift or remove any other hair color that may already be in your hair, she notes. If your hair is a darker shade, look for safe bleaching options that won't damage your locks. Is blonde hair dye safe? Yes (it’s with bleaching where you start to get into more iffy safety territory), but just keep in mind you may not get the best result. “It’s very hard to get a natural-looking blonde color at home, and I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re open to a very golden blonde color,” says Fleming, who believes that blonde is best left up to the pros. How long does blonde hair dye last? Demi-permanent tones fade out over time, usually after a few weeks. Permanent formulas will last until they grow out, but Fleming notes that their intensity can still fade over time. Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. Additional guidance was provided by Kristen Fleming is a colorist and the color director at 3rd Coast Salon in Chicago. She specializes in creating beautiful, personalized hair colors and is well-known as a blonde expert. Byrdie contributor Esme Benjamin checked and updated this article in November 2023 to ensure every detail was correct and each product deserves its place on Byrdie’s list of the best blonde hair dyes.:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-best-blonde-hair-dyes-of-2023-tout-8766ea08c68c4e458510c756a793a581.jpg "The 14 Best Blonde Hair Dyes for Salon-Level Results at Home (1)")
Best Overall
Garnier Nutrisse Nourishing Color Creme
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Who It’s For
Who It’s For
Best Drugstore
L'Oreal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying
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Who It’s For
Who It’s For
Who It’s For
Best Semi-Permanent Color
Clairol Natural Instincts Demi-Permanent Hair Dye
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Who It’s For
Best for Highlights & Root Touch-Ups
dpHUE Hair Lightening Blonding Brush
Who It’s For
Best for Damaged Hair
Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color
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Who It’s For
Who It’s For
Best Lightening Shampoo
John Frieda Sheer Blonde Go Blonder
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Who It’s For
Best Maintenance Shampoo
Matrix Unbreak My Blonde Shampoo
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Who It’s For
Who It’s For
Who It’s For
Best Gloss
Pureology Color Fanatic Top Coat + Clear Gloss
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Who It’s For
Where We Stand
How We Researched
What to Look for in Blonde Hair Dye
Why Trust Byrdie
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/revlon-colorsilk-beautiful-color-permanent-hair-color-27fc257eba6a446c85dea0af2814530b.jpg "The 14 Best Blonde Hair Dyes for Salon-Level Results at Home (3)")
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Article Sources
Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.
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