Q&A for How to Dye Dark Hair Without Bleach

You can achieve a rich red on naturally black hair in a single step if the hair is virgin. However, if your hair has been previously colored or if you want a vibrant red, you may have to use bleach and the recolor.

You can potentially lift your hair one or two levels with a box dye. This won't work if you've previously colored your hair or if the box dye isn't made for lightening.

If you are dying your hair darker than the color it currently is, you do not have to bleach it. You should only have to use bleach to lighten the hair.

If you are changing the tone but not lightening your hair, you should be able to dye it without using bleach. If you have never dyed it before. you can also go 1-2 levels lighter without bleach.

Unfortunately, nothing will lighten dark hair without pre-lightning it. I do not recommend trying this at home as it could break the bond of your hair severely.

If you don't use toner, your hair will turn orange. I suggest getting your hair done professionally first, then maintaining it by yourself.

This is probably because you used bleach. Without the bleach, your hair is a darker color and will not take in the blue dye as well. If you bleach blonde hair though, it is almost a white platinum color. The blue dye will attach to this color much better.

It really just depends how dark your hair is. The bleach could turn it completely blonde or just an ashy blonde, or even a reddish tint.

The purple would show up on the hair, but it would be very dark. If you're adamant about not bleaching it, then I would suggest putting the color on and using a hairdryer to dry the color in. Wait for the dye to be fully dried onto your hair, then let it sit for another 10 minutes before washing out. It will make the color brighter, but it will not be vibrant or neon without the bleach.

Different brands of coloring use different numbers and letters and numbers to describe their brand colors. I assume you currently have leftover color from the brand that makes the b61, so you do need to be careful when switching brands; if you go by the number, you may get a very unwanted color. To make your hair less "warm" and more ashy, you would want to use a color with the word "ash" or "cool". This counteracts the red tones so you will be less gold. Ash can sometimes be too much, though, giving you a greenish cast. Go to a local beauty supply such as Sally's and they can see your hair and point you in the right direction.

As long as you choose dark red, it should work. But red hair is a lot of maintenance, so be prepared.