Color Hair with Fruits and Berries

Woman who is holding raspberries in her hands
Photo: AleksKo/Shutterstock
Q: Is it possible to color your hair without using dyes? Are there any natural or household product coloring methods that won't damage my hair?
 
A: Okay, there are "natural" coloring methods, but they are still considered "dyes", they just tend to use fewer manmade chemicals and are less prone to causing allergic reactions.
 
For adding specifically notable color to the hair, your best bet is the use of fruits and berries. Things like cranberries and blueberries can add a pop of color to dark hair. Blueberries and blackberries are especially great with black hair to add shine and a hint of color refraction.
 
Cranberries, cherries and raspberries are great for brown hair to give a richness to the color and create "pseudo-auburn" hues. When using fruit as a coloring agent, mash the berries with a small amount of water and some apple cider vinegar, and apply to damp hair, leaving on for 15-20 minutes.
 
The color results are not permanent and will last depending on the condition of your hair.
 
To enhance the natural color of the hair, try these formulas. Steep the listed ingredients in hot water to form a tea-like solution and add vinegar once the solution has begun to cool:
 
Chamomile and walnut shells (or dried leaves from a walnut tree): Use this for brown hair colors to enrich the tone of the brown.
 
Marigold flowers: Use the petals of these flowers in their yellow and golden varietals for blonde hair types to add an extra layer of golden tone to the blonde color.
 
Ginger root: Mix ground ginger root (fresh) into the hot water to make a tea that will help add vibrancy to red hair shades.
 
©Hairfinder.com
 
See also:
 
The different types of hair dyes
 
The influence of the sun on our hair
 
Lighten hair with lemon juice
 
Natural way to get highlights
Shop