9 Best Hair Colors for Thin Hair that Made My Locks Look Thicker

Written by Alvira Dsouza, Hair Expert
Updated on Feb 22, 2024
Best Hair Color for Thin Hair
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Hair colors for thin hair have become a sensation, and for good reason. It's not just about adding a pop of color; it's a strategic move to amplify volume and redefine thin hair strands. I dived into the hair color rabbit hole because, let's be real, thin-haired folks often feel left out in the hair color game. It's about finding shades that not only look fabulous but also work with the delicate nature of thin hair.

Curating the best hair colors for thin hair involved a deep dive into product reviews, expert opinions, and understanding the science behind hair health. I looked at everything from ingredients to application techniques, ensuring that the colors wouldn't just sit on the surface but would contribute to the overall well-being of those fine locks.

It isn't just about picking a color; it's a holistic approach. I recommend opting for shades that align with your undertones, providing a natural and harmonious look. Low-maintenance options, like balayage or ombre, offer a trendy appearance without constant touch-ups, while sulfate-free products maintain color vibrancy and hair health. It's not just about changing colors; it's about embracing a vibrant, low-maintenance routine that lets thin hair shine in all its glory.

9 Best Hair Colors for Thin Hair

This high-quality, cruelty-free dye offers a bold and long-lasting purple hue that stands out, making a statement without compromising on ethical values. The Arctic Fox formula is gentle on hair and free from harmful chemicals like peroxide and ammonia, ensuring a conditioning and nourishing experience. 

Whether you're aiming for a full head of radiant purple or experimenting with highlights, this semi-permanent dye provides versatile and customizable results. Suitable for all hair types, Arctic Fox Purple AF allows you to embrace creativity and self-expression while promoting a compassionate approach to beauty.

Pros
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Eye-catching
  • Ammonia-free
Cons
  • Lacks intensity
  • Best Non-drying Color

    Garnier Hair Color New Nutrisse Ultra Creme, 11 Blackest Black (Peppercorn)

    Garnier Hair Color New Nutrisse Ultra Creme, 11 Blackest Black (Peppercorn)
  • This intense black shade, reminiscent of peppercorns, ensures a deep, dramatic transformation that covers grays effectively. The Nutrisse formula is enriched with nourishing oils like avocado, olive, and shea, providing a conditioning and moisturizing effect during the coloring process. The result is not only vibrant and consistent color but also healthier, shinier hair. The easy-to-use creme application makes home coloring a breeze, and the non-drip formula ensures a mess-free experience.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • 100% grey coverage
    • No dryness
    • Long-lasting
    Cons
    • A bit lumpy
  • Best Budget-friendly Product

    Clairol Nice'n Easy, 4 Dark Brown Hair Color

    Clairol Nice'n Easy, 4 Dark Brown Hair Color
  • This permanent hair dye is formulated to provide a rich, dark brown shade that seamlessly blends with your original hair color, ensuring a harmonious and authentic appearance. The Color Blend technology in Clairol Nice'n Easy helps create tones and highlights that mimic the variations found in natural hair, preventing a flat or monotone look. Additionally, the formula is gentle on hair, offering 100% gray coverage while providing a conditioning effect. The easy application process and long-lasting results make it a convenient solution for at-home hair coloring.

    Pros
    • Decent coverage
    • Affordable
    • Shiny
    • Very rich texture
    Cons
    • Not long-lasting
  • Best for Roots

    L'Oreal Paris Excellence Creme Permanent Hair Color, 4 Dark Brown

    L'Oreal Paris Excellence Creme Permanent Hair Color, 4 Dark Brown
  • This high-quality hair dye combines fashion-forward color with advanced care, offering a rich and deep dark brown shade that looks both natural and luxurious. The Excellence Creme formula is enriched with pro-keratin and collagen, ensuring not only vibrant color but also enhanced strength and resilience for your hair. The result is a seamless blend of dark brown tones that effectively conceals grays, leaving your hair looking revitalized and youthful. The precision applicator makes the at-home coloring process user-friendly, while the fade-resistant formula ensures long-lasting color brilliance.

    Pros
    • Long-lasting
    • Non-drip
    • Ideal for roots
    • Easy to apply
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
  • Best for Sensitive Heads

    Schwarzkopf Keratin Color 6.0 Delicate Praline

    Schwarzkopf Keratin Color 6.0 Delicate Praline
  • This shade provides a subtle highlight, adding warmth and sophistication to your look. The Keratin Color formula is enriched with liquid keratin to strengthen and nourish your hair during the coloring process, ensuring both vibrant color and improved hair texture. The advanced anti-breakage technology helps protect against damage, promoting healthier and more resilient hair. 

    With easy application and 100% grey coverage, this cream makes home coloring convenient and effective. The Delicate Praline shade is versatile and complements various skin tones, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a natural appearance and elegant hair color transformation.

    Pros
    • No brass
    • No brass
    • Nice shade
    • Great for sensitive heads
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • May fade quickly
  • Best Packaging

    Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel, 4N Chestnut

    Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel, 4N Chestnut
  • This gentle and effective formula is free from ammonia, parabens, and harsh chemicals, making it suitable for those seeking a more natural approach to hair coloring. The Chestnut shade, known as 4N, imparts a warm and timeless brown tone that complements various skin tones. 

    Herbatint's commitment to providing full grey coverage ensures a consistent and vibrant result. The easy-to-use gel application makes at-home coloring convenient and mess-free. With a botanical-based formula, Herbatint not only enhances your hair color but also nourishes and protects your hair strands.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • No alcohol
    • Excellent packaging
    • Dermatologically-tested
    Cons
    • No applicator
  • Best Color-safe Product

    Xmondo Hair Color Super Red

    Xmondo Hair Color Super Red
  • This vibrant red hue not only delivers striking results but also incorporates cutting-edge ingredients for hair healing. The inclusion of hyaluronic acid ensures optimal moisture retention, keeping your hair hydrated and healthy. Enriched with vegetable proteins, this formula revitalizes and strengthens your hair strands, promoting a luscious and vibrant appearance. Bond-boosting technology further safeguards the structural integrity of your hair, minimizing damage during the coloring process.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Color safe
    • No paraben
    • Easy to use
    Cons
    • Costly
  • Best Long-lasting Color

    Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color Kit, Darkest Brown

    Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color Kit, Darkest Brown
  • This permanent hair dye offers a deep, lustrous brown shade with 100% gray coverage, ensuring a vibrant and consistent result. The specifically formulated 3.5NNN shade, named Ravenna Brown, provides a rich and dark tone that complements a range of skin tones. Madison Reed's commitment to hair health is reflected in the formula's exclusion of ammonia, parabens, and other harmful chemicals, promoting a gentle and nourishing coloring experience. The easy-to-use kit includes detailed instructions for hassle-free application at home, giving you salon-quality results without the salon visit.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • No ammonia
    • Nice packaging
    • Long-lasting
    Cons
    • Too dark
  • Best Gentle Formula

    John Frieda Precision Foam Colour, Medium Natural Brown 5N

    John Frieda Precision Foam Colour, Medium Natural Brown 5N
  • This precision foam formula ensures even coverage, providing a salon-quality result without the mess. The Medium Natural Brown shade offers a versatile and timeless color, adding depth and dimension to your hair. The foam consistency allows for precise application, reaching every strand for consistent color from roots to ends. 

    Enriched with nourishing ingredients, this formula not only imparts a beautiful, natural-looking brown but also leaves hair feeling soft and conditioned. The non-drip foam makes the application process smooth, even for beginners. John Frieda's commitment to quality and innovation makes Precision Foam Colour a reliable choice for those seeking a seamless, salon-worthy hair color experience in the comfort of their homes.

    Pros
    • Nourishing
    • Long-lasting
    • Easy to use
    • Gentle formula
    Cons
    • Faulty pump

    Now that you have seen my product recommendations for the best hair colors for thin hair, glance through my buying guide to make an informed purchase.

    How to Choose the Best Hair Color for Thin Hair?

    Choosing the best hair color for thin hair involves considering various factors. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect hair color for thin hair:

    Understanding Your Skin Tone: Choosing the perfect hair color for thin hair begins with understanding your skin tone. Identify whether you have a warm, cool, or neutral undertone. This will influence the shades that complement your complexion and enhance the overall look of your thin hair.

    Embracing Natural Hues: Opt for hair colors that mimic your natural hair color to create a seamless and subtle appearance. Avoid drastic color changes, as they can draw attention to thinning areas. Consider shades that are close to your original color for a more natural and voluminous look.

    Lighter Shades for Depth And Dimension: Lighter hair colors can add depth and dimension to thin hair, creating an illusion of thickness. Highlighting or incorporating balayage techniques with lighter shades can give the appearance of fuller locks. Be cautious not to go too light, as extremely light colors can highlight scalp visibility.

    Darker Shades for Volume: Darker hair colors can create the illusion of thicker appearance by reducing the contrast between your hair and scalp. Rich browns, chocolates, and deep blacks can add volume and make your hair appear denser. However, avoid going too dark, as it may emphasize thinning.

    Low-maintenance Options: Opt for low-maintenance hair colors that blend well with your natural hair growth. This reduces the need for frequent touch-ups and minimizes potential damage. Balancing trendy colors with practicality ensures your hair remains healthy and vibrant.

    Texture-enhancing Products: Pairing your chosen hair color with texture-enhancing products can further improve the appearance of thin hair. Volumizing shampoos, conditioners, and styling products can add body and texture, making your hair look fuller and more voluminous.

    Remember that everyone's preferences and styles are different, so it's essential to choose a hair color that makes you feel confident and comfortable. If you're unsure, consulting with a professional stylist can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and features.

    How to Care for Thin Hair during Colouring?

    Choose a Gentle Hair Dye: Opt for a hair dye specifically formulated for thin or damaged hair. These formulations often contain fewer harsh chemicals that can strip the hair of its natural oils.

    Deep Condition Before Coloring: Deep condition your hair a week before coloring to ensure it's well-hydrated. This can help minimize damage and improve the hair's ability to absorb and retain color.

    Avoid Overlapping Color: When retouching color, try to avoid overlapping onto previously colored hair. Overlapping can lead to excessive damage, especially for thin hair.

    Limit the Frequency of Color Treatments: Give your hair enough time to recover between color treatments. Over-frequent coloring can weaken the hair shaft and contribute to thinning.

    Apply Color to Clean Hair: Color adheres better to clean hair, so make sure your hair is free of styling products and natural oils before applying color.

    Deep Condition After Coloring: After coloring, use a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture and nourishment to the hair. This can help counteract the drying effects of the coloring process.

    Protect Your Hair from the Sun: Colored hair, especially if it's thin, can be more susceptible to damage from UV rays. Protect your hair by wearing hats or using products with UV filters when spending time in the sun.

    Avoid Hot Water: When washing colored hair, use lukewarm or cool water. Hot water can strip the hair of its natural oils and contribute to dryness.

    Use Sulfate-free Shampoos: Choose sulfate-free shampoos, as sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils and moisture, making it more prone to breakage.

    Pro Tip: If you're using a permanent color, try to avoid frequent touch-ups to prevent color build-up, which can make hair look dull and lifeless. Instead, refresh the color as needed.

    Conclusion

    Discovering the best hair color for my thin hair such as Arctic FoxSemi-Permanent Hair Color Dye PURPLE AF and Garnier Hair Color New Nutrisse Ultra Creme, 11 Blackest Black (Peppercorn) has been a quest for both style and confidence. I've learned that subtler tones, closely aligned with my natural color, create an effortlessly elegant look while minimizing the focus on thinness. Embracing warm tones has added warmth to my complexion, providing a flattering balance. Choosing multi-dimensional colors, like soft highlights and lowlights, has given my hair a much-needed boost in volume and texture. The best hair color for thin hair is a fusion of personal style, maintenance considerations, and the expert touch of a stylist. It's about enhancing what you have, embracing subtlety, and finding a color that not only suits your skin tone but also makes you feel confidently beautiful every day.

    FAQ's

    Is it better to go lighter or darker for thin hair?
    Choosing a lighter hair color is often recommended for thin hair, as it can create an illusion of thickness and reflect more light. Lighter shades can add dimension, making hair appear fuller. However, personal preferences and skin tone should also be considered when deciding whether to go lighter or darker.
    How do I choose the right undertone for my hair color?
    Selecting the right undertone for your hair involves considering your skin's undertones. If you have warm undertones, opt for hair colors with golden or red hues. For cool undertones, choose shades with ashy or cool tones. Harmonizing your hair color with your skin undertones enhances overall balance and complements your natural features.
    Are there hair colors that require less maintenance for thin hair?
    Yes, opting for low-maintenance hair colors is beneficial for thin hair. Balayage or ombre techniques with a gradual color transition minimize visible regrowth. Additionally, choosing shades closer to your natural color reduces the need for frequent touch-ups, preserving the health of thin strands while still offering a stylish look.
    Can I still use vibrant colors on thin hair?
    Absolutely! Vibrant colors can be used on thin hair to add flair and individuality. Consider semi-permanent or demi-permanent options, as they cause less damage and fade gracefully. Vibrant shades can create the illusion of fuller hair, injecting personality without compromising the health of delicate strands.
    How can I protect my hair color and maintain volume?
    To protect hair color and maintain volume, use color-safe and sulfate-free products. Limit washing to prevent color fading, and opt for dry shampoo. Regular trims prevent split ends, preserving volume. Heat styling with care, using heat protectants, and incorporating volumizing products contribute to a vibrant and voluminous appearance.
    How long will the color last on thin hair?
    The longevity of color on thin hair varies based on factors like hair care, chosen products, and maintenance. Generally, vibrant colors may fade sooner. Using color-safe products, avoiding excessive washing, and protecting hair from environmental factors can extend color life, preserving your chosen shade on thin strands.
    Are there specific hairstyles that complement colored thin hair?
    Layered hairstyles are excellent for colored thin hair, adding dimension and the illusion of thickness. Beachy waves or curls provide texture, enhancing color depth. Updos and braids offer versatility, while pixie cuts and bobs with strategic layers create movement, contributing to a stylish and voluminous appearance.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    In her quest for vibrant and voluminous hair, Sayantani diligently researched and reviewed the best hair colors for thin hair. Recognizing the transformative power of the right hue, she delved into product specifications. By analyzing ingredients and their impact on hair health, she aimed to empower those with fine strands to make informed choices. The goal was not only to enhance aesthetic appeal but also to prioritize hair nourishment and resilience. Through her comprehensive review, she aspired to guide her readers towards shades that not only amplify their beauty but also contribute to the overall well-being of their delicate locks.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Alvira Dsouza
    Hair Expert

    With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More