Should I Dye My Hair Black? Pros, Cons and Things to Consider

Black hair is a dramatic, eye-catching look that many people find alluring. The deep, dark color can make your features stand out and give you a bold, sophisticated style.

But before taking the plunge into raven tresses, it’s smart to weigh the pros and cons. Dyeing your hair an inky black shade can be tricky to pull off and requires commitment.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll overview everything you need to know when deciding if you should dye your hair black.

The Pros of Black Hair

What are some of the benefits of dyeing your hair black? Here are some of the best reasons to go for the dramatic dark look:

Makes Eyes Pop

One of the biggest pros of black hair is it makes your eyes look brighter and more vibrant. The high contrast between black hair and lighter colored eyes makes them stand out. This works for any eye color from blue to brown to green.

Flatters Darker Skin Tones

Those with medium to dark skin tones can typically pull off a jet black shade beautifully. The deep color is flattering against darker complexions. People with very fair skin need to be more careful with black hair to avoid looking washed out.

Covers Up Grays

Black is the most effective color for covering stubborn grays. Even resistant “skunk streaks” blend seamlessly into black hair. You’ll likely only need occasional root touch-ups.

Looks Thicker and Shinier

The saturated color of black hair reflects light better, creating a glossy look. The dye molecules also “plump up” strands slightly for the appearance of thicker hair.

Good for Subculture Styles

Black hair works perfectly for alternative, goth, emo, or punk looks. It fits right in with those music and fashion subcultures.

Change of Pace

If you’ve had the same hair color forever, black is a fun way to dramatically switch up your style. It’s great for people who want an exciting, bold change.

The Cons of Black Hair

Of course, it’s not all positive points. There are also some downsides to consider before dyeing your hair black:

High Maintenance

With frequent root touch-ups needed, black hair is high maintenance. Plan to re-dye the roots every 4-6 weeks as regrowth happens quickly on dark hair. Proper hair care is also a must to keep color from fading.

Hard to Reverse

Going back to a lighter shade from black can be a lengthy, damaging process. It often requires multiple sessions and the help of a pro colorist to avoid a disaster.

Roots Are Obvious

If you have naturally lighter hair, regrowth at the roots will be extremely obvious. The contrast shows every bit of new growth.

Can Wash Out Complexions

People with very fair or ruddy skin need to be cautious with black, as it can make them appear washed out or accentuate redness. A dark brown is safer.

May Increase Cancer Risk

Some research links long-term use of permanent black hair dye to a slightly higher cancer risk. More studies are needed, but it’s something to be aware of.

Allergy Risk

Black dye contains higher levels of PPD, an ingredient more likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reaction than other shades. Always do a patch test before using.

Good Candidates for Black Hair

While black hair looks great on anyone, here are some characteristics that make you an ideal candidate:

• You have naturally dark brown or black hair already
• Your skin tone is medium, olive or darker
• Your eye color is light – blue, green, hazel, gray
• You don’t mind high maintenance upkeep
• You want an exciting, dramatic change
• You love alternative music and fashion styles

If you have these traits, black will be easy to pull off and you’re less likely to end up with regret over the bold color change.

How to Prepare for Black Hair

Doing some prep work helps ensure you’ll love your new black mane. Here are some tips:

Do a Strand Test

Before committing to dyeing all-over, do a test strand to see how black hair dye takes to your current color. This gives you a preview of the results.

Consult with a Stylist

Discuss your plans with an experienced stylist. They can assess your skin tone, color history, and advise if black hair will be flattering or not.

Buy a Temporary Dye

Try a temporary black hair color that washes out in a few shampoos. This allows you to test drive the look.

Prepare Your Brows

Fill in and tint your brows to complement black hair, or they may look washed out. See a brow professional for dyeing.

Adjust Your Makeup

Update your makeup colors and application to flatter your new raven hair vs. your old color. Bold lips or a cat eye work great.

Update Your Wardrobe

Purchase new hair accessories, jewelry and clothes in colors that pair well with black hair. Silver, gold and jewel tones look beautiful.

Dyeing Your Hair Black

Once you’ve decided to take the plunge, use these tips for the best black hair color results:

See a Pro Colorist

Have your hair dyed black professionally the first time. Experienced colorists know how to perfectly formulate and apply the shade.

Request a Shade Consult

Ask your stylist to recommend the most flattering black shade for your complexion. Blue-black, jet black, ash black, etc.

Expect Multiple Steps

To go from light hair to black requires lightening beforehand. This double process takes time but gives the best payoff.

Use Ammonia-Free Dye

Choose an ammonia-free, conditioning demi- or semi-permanent dye. Harsh chemicals damage hair and irritate skin.

Do a Patch Test

Always do an allergy patch test before dyeing, even if you’ve colored before. PPD in black dye can cause reactions.

Protect Your Skin and Clothes

Cover skin with petroleum jelly to avoid stains. Drape an old shirt around your shoulders. Work in a ventilated area.

Caring for Black Dyed Hair

Once your hair is black, maintain it with:

• Sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner
• Cool water rinses
• Limited washing to 2-3x per week
• Heat protectant spray before hot tools
• Humidity blocking products
• Occasional deep conditioning treatments
• Dry shampoo made for dark hair

Bottom Line

Dyeing your hair black can provide you with a striking, beautiful new look when done correctly. But the dramatic color change does require maintenance and isn’t the right choice for everyone.

Consider your own coloring, complexion, eye color and lifestyle to decide if you should join the black hair club. And enlist the help of a professional stylist to ensure you get perfect, fade-proof results.