Gray hairs popping up? It happens to the best of us. Instead of reaching for harsh chemical dyes, some folks are turning to hair darkening shampoo bars. These bars promise to gradually darken your hair while you wash it. It’s like a subtle color boost with your regular shampoo routine. I decided to check some out, and here’s what I found.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Best Overall: Dexe Black Hair Shampoo Bar
- Best for Sensitive Scalps: BSY Noni Black Hair Magic Shampoo
- Best for Oily Hair: YUDA Pilatory Hair Darkening Shampoo Bar
- Best for Travel: MOKERU Shampoo Bar
- Best Budget Option: iBeaLee Hair Darkening Shampoo Bar
Top 5 Best Hair Darkening Shampoo Bar Reviews
1. Dexe Black Hair Shampoo Bar
The Dexe Black Hair Shampoo Bar is probably the most well-known option. It claims to darken hair in just a few washes, using natural ingredients. It’s easy to use and lathers up nicely, leaving your hair feeling clean and soft. I noticed a subtle difference after a few uses.
Pros:
- ✅ Noticeable darkening effect after a few uses.
- ✅ Leaves hair feeling clean and soft.
- ✅ Easy to use and lathers well.
Cons:
- ❌ The darkening effect can be uneven.
- ❌ Some users report a slight medicinal scent.
- ❌ Might stain your hands if you don’t wear gloves (though it washes off).
Verdict: If you’re looking for a relatively quick and noticeable darkening effect, the Dexe bar is a solid choice. Just be patient and don’t expect overnight miracles.
2. BSY Noni Black Hair Magic Shampoo
BSY Noni Black Hair Magic Shampoo is formulated with Noni extract, which is known for its hair-darkening properties. It’s designed to be gentle on the scalp, making it a good option if you have sensitive skin. I found it to be less drying than some other bars.
Pros:
- ✅ Gentle on sensitive scalps.
- ✅ Contains natural Noni extract.
- ✅ Doesn’t dry out hair as much as some other bars.
Cons:
- ❌ The darkening effect is very gradual.
- ❌ The scent can be a bit strong for some.
- ❌ Some users report it can leave a slight residue.
Verdict: If you have a sensitive scalp and are looking for a very gradual, gentle darkening effect, BSY Noni is a good option. Don’t expect dramatic results quickly, though.
3. YUDA Pilatory Hair Darkening Shampoo Bar
The YUDA Pilatory Hair Darkening Shampoo Bar is designed to control oil and prevent dandruff while darkening your hair. If you struggle with oily hair, this bar could be a good choice. I appreciated how clean my hair felt after using it.
Pros:
- ✅ Good for oily hair.
- ✅ Helps control dandruff.
- ✅ Leaves hair feeling very clean.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be drying for some hair types.
- ❌ The scent is quite strong.
- ❌ Darkening effect may take longer to appear.
Verdict: If you have oily hair and are looking for a bar that can help control oil and dandruff while gradually darkening your hair, the YUDA bar is worth a try. Just be sure to use a good conditioner.
4. MOKERU Shampoo Bar
The MOKERU Shampoo Bar comes in a convenient bar form, making it great for travel. It claims to darken hair while cleansing and conditioning. I like that it’s easy to pack and doesn’t take up much space.
Pros:
- ✅ Convenient for travel.
- ✅ Cleanses and conditions hair.
- ✅ Easy to use and store.
Cons:
- ❌ Darkening effect may not be as pronounced as other bars.
- ❌ Some users report a slight residue.
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to other options.
Verdict: If you travel frequently and want a convenient way to darken your hair while you wash it, the MOKERU bar is a good choice. It’s compact and easy to use on the go.
5. iBeaLee Hair Darkening Shampoo Bar
The iBeaLee Hair Darkening Shampoo Bar is one of the more affordable options on the market. It aims to darken hair gradually while cleansing and nourishing it. For the price, it’s a decent option to test out the hair darkening shampoo bar waters.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable option.
- ✅ Cleanses and nourishes hair.
- ✅ Decent lather.
Cons:
- ❌ Darkening effect is very subtle.
- ❌ The scent may not be for everyone.
- ❌ Some users report it can be drying.
Verdict: If you’re on a budget and want to try a hair darkening shampoo bar without spending a lot of money, the iBeaLee bar is a decent starting point. Just don’t expect dramatic results.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right hair darkening shampoo bar can feel overwhelming, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Ingredients: Look for natural ingredients like Noni extract, Polygonum multiflorum (He Shou Wu), and herbal extracts. Avoid bars with harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens, which can dry out your hair.
- Hair Type: Consider your hair type. If you have oily hair, choose a bar that helps control oil. If you have dry hair, look for a moisturizing bar.
- Sensitivity: If you have a sensitive scalp, choose a bar that’s specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Look for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free options.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other users to get an idea of how well the bar works and whether it’s a good fit for your needs.
- Expectations: Remember that hair darkening shampoo bars typically provide a gradual darkening effect. Don’t expect overnight miracles. It may take several weeks or even months to see noticeable results.
- Patch Test: Before using any new hair product, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for any allergic reactions.
FAQs
Q: How often should I use a hair darkening shampoo bar?
A: It depends on the specific product and your hair type. Start by using it 2-3 times per week and adjust as needed. If your hair feels dry, reduce the frequency.
Q: Will these bars completely cover my gray hair?
A: Hair darkening shampoo bars are designed to gradually darken hair, not completely cover gray hair like a traditional dye. They can help blend gray hairs and make them less noticeable.
Q: Are these bars safe to use on color-treated hair?
A: It’s best to check the product label or consult with a hairstylist before using a hair darkening shampoo bar on color-treated hair. Some bars may affect your existing hair color.
Q: Can men use these bars too?
A: Absolutely! Hair darkening shampoo bars are suitable for both men and women.
Q: Do I need to use a conditioner after using a hair darkening shampoo bar?
A: It depends on your hair type. If your hair feels dry after using the bar, use a conditioner to add moisture. If your hair is oily, you may not need a conditioner.
Conclusion
Hair darkening shampoo bars can be a gentle and convenient way to gradually darken your hair and blend away grays. While they won’t provide the same dramatic results as traditional hair dye, they can be a good option if you’re looking for a more natural and subtle approach. Remember to choose a bar that’s formulated for your hair type and be patient – it may take some time to see noticeable results.
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