What Colours Can You Dye Black Hair Without Bleach?

If you have black hair or dark brown hair and dream of adding a splash of colour without the need for bleach, you'll be thrilled to know that there are plenty of options available to achieve beautiful, sultry hair colour.

If you’ve ever found yourself searching “what colours can you dye black hair without bleach”, “what color can you dye black hair without bleaching it”, “hair colour for black hair without bleach”, “hair colour without bleach for black hair” or “can you dye black hair without bleach?” – this guide is for you.

While bleach is commonly used for lightening dark hair, there are several hair dye options that can beautifully enhance your natural black hair without the hassle of bleaching.

Here are the best colours you can use on black hair without bleach:

1. Smoky Brunette

2. Berry Brunette

3. Black Onyx

1. Smoky Brunette

Smoky Brunette is a versatile colour that complements black hair beautifully. It adds depth and dimension, creating cool, ashy brunette tones that look expensive and modern.

You can achieve this shade at home using the Josh Wood Colour Smoky Brunette Gloss, a semi-permanent colour and treatment in one that helps to neutralise warmth and add shine.

It’s important to note that Smoky Brunette is designed for very dark brown or black hair only and is not suitable for those with lighter strands, balayage or highlighted pieces.

2. Berry Brunette

If you're on the black/dark brown border and want something richer and bolder, consider a berry plum shade for a dramatic look. Berry Brunette is ideal for adding deep burgundy-red tones to dark brunette hair while still feeling wearable.

Choose the Josh Wood Colour Berry Brunette Gloss to:

• Enhance and add depth to dark brown hair

• Create rich berry tones on lighter brown or balayage pieces

• Add gloss and condition alongside the colour

Again, this is designed for brunettes – not blonde or very light hair.

3. Black Onyx

For those seeking a more subtle tone transformation, Black Onyx is an excellent option. This intense black shade boosts the richness of your existing colour and creates a glossy, inky finish.

The Josh Wood Colour Black Onyx Gloss is a semi-permanent colour treatment mask that:

• Deepens black and dark brunette hair

• Adds a rich, mirror-like shine

• Is particularly gorgeous on curly and coily textures, helping curls look more defined and lustrous

It’s not designed to cover grey, but it will refresh and intensify existing dark tones.

How to Keep Your Colour Vibrant for Longer

To ensure that your new colour remains vibrant and long-lasting, it’s essential to look after your hair with the right care routine.

Use colour-protecting products that are specifically formulated for coloured hair, such as the Josh Wood Colour Miracle Shampoo for Coloured Hair and Miracle Conditioner. These help to lock in colour, reduce fading and maintain softness and shine.

For an extra boost of hydration and protection, use the Josh Wood Colour Miracle Mask at least once a week. This five-minute treatment helps prevent colour fade, improves condition and keeps your hair looking glossy and healthy between glosses or colour applications.

What Is the Lightest Hair Colour for Black Hair Without Bleach?

If you're hoping to go lighter without reaching for bleach, it's important to understand what’s realistically achievable on naturally black or very dark brown hair.

Semi-permanent glosses and permanent kits can enrich, deepen or subtly tone your existing shade, but they cannot dramatically lighten a very dark base on their own. For a noticeable lift (for example, going from black to light brown, caramel or blonde), a lightening process like bleach is normally required.

For any major colour transformation, or if you’re unsure what’s possible for your hair type and history, it’s always best to visit a professional salon for personalised advice and a safe, controlled lightening process.