Want Natural Hair Dye for Grey Hair? Try These 15 Methods

Key Highlights

• Coffee, black tea, and walnut shells provide rich, dark tones.

• Lemon and chamomile lighten strands naturally for soft highlights.

• Henna and indigo blend to create lasting, vibrant shades.

• Potato skins and sage help restore natural pigment.

• Coconut oil, onion juice, and curry leaves promote hair care with less damage than hair dyes.

Tired of those stubborn grey strands stealing the spotlight? Want all natural hair dye for grey hair? You don’t have to reach for harsh chemicals to restore your natural color. Natural hair dyes for grey hair offer a safe, nourishing way to refresh your look, right from the comfort of your home.

From rich coffee and black tea rinses to vibrant henna and herbal blends, these chemical-free solutions don’t just cover greys; they strengthen, shine, and revive your hair. Whether you want subtle highlights or deeper tones, there’s a natural method for every hair type and shade.

In this guide, we’ll reveal 15 easy and effective ways to dye grey hair naturally, plus insider tips to get the most out of each method. Say goodbye to harsh dyes and hello to healthy, radiant hair that turns heads naturally.

Why Switch to Natural Hair Dye for Grey Hair?

Conventional hair dyes can cover grey strands instantly, but they often contain harsh chemicals like ammonia, parabens, and synthetic dyes that can irritate the scalp, dry out hair, and cause long-term damage during hair coloring.

Switching to a natural hair dye for grey hair offers a safer, gentler alternative that not only colors your hair but also nourishes and strengthens it. Ingredients like henna, indigo, coffee, and herbal oils help maintain your hair’s health while gradually restoring its natural shade.

Choosing natural methods also supports a more sustainable approach to beauty, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals for both your body and the environment. With these safe options, you can confidently cover grey hair while keeping your scalp happy and your strands vibrant.

What Are The 15 Best Natural Ways to Dye Grey Hair Naturally at Home?

Wondering how to dye grey hair naturally at home? Below are the 15 proven natural methods to darken or lighten greys using safe, everyday ingredients. Many people struggle with the appearance of grey hair, which can make them feel older or less confident.

These methods provide effective solutions without the harsh chemicals found in commercial dyes.

1. Coffee for Deep Brown Shades

Few ingredients color and condition your hair as beautifully as coffee. It gives greys a rich brown tint while adding shine and smoothness, perfect for anyone with medium to dark hair tones.

How to Apply:

1. Brew 1–2 cups of strong black coffee and let it cool completely.

2. Mix 2 tablespoons of coffee grounds with the cooled coffee and 1 tablespoon of leave-in conditioner.

3. Apply the mixture evenly through clean, damp hair from roots to ends.

4. Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it on for about 1 hour.

5. Rinse thoroughly with cool water (no shampoo) and let your hair air-dry.

Tip: Repeat 2–3 times per week for a deeper, longer-lasting brown tone.

2. Tea Rinses for Enhanced Darkness

If your goal is to darken grey strands naturally while boosting shine, tea rinses are a simple and effective solution. Black tea, in particular, infuses hair with tannins that create a soft brown-black tint over time.

How to Apply:

1. Boil 2 cups of water and steep 3–4 black tea bags for about 20 minutes.

2. Let the tea cool to room temperature before using.

3. Pour the tea evenly over clean, damp hair or use it as a final rinse after shampooing.

4. Gently massage your scalp for a minute to encourage absorption.

5. Leave it on for 20–30 minutes, then rinse with cool water (no shampoo).

Tip: Use this rinse 2–3 times a week to gradually darken greys and maintain a healthy shine.

3. Henna for Vibrant Red Tones

Henna is one of the most trusted natural hair dyes for grey hair, offering rich, reddish-brown hues with a beautiful, glossy finish. It not only colors but also strengthens your strands and promotes scalp health.

How to Apply:

1. In a non-metallic bowl, mix henna powder with warm water to create a smooth, yogurt-like paste.

2. Let the mixture rest for 30–60 minutes to allow dye release.

3. Apply the paste evenly to clean, dry hair using a brush or your gloved hands.

4. Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it on for 2–3 hours.

5. Rinse thoroughly with cool water (avoid shampoo for 24 hours to help the color set).

Tip: For a deeper brown-black shade, mix henna with indigo powder in a two-step process, henna first, then indigo.

4. Sage Water to Restore Natural Hair Color

Sage is rich in antioxidants and natural pigments that can help darken grey strands gradually. Regular rinses can revive your natural tone and add subtle depth to dull or faded hair.

How to Apply:

1. Boil a handful of fresh or dried sage leaves in 2 cups of water for about 30 minutes.

2. Allow the mixture to cool completely, then strain out the leaves.

3. Pour the sage-infused water evenly through clean, damp hair.

4. Massage gently into your scalp and let it sit for 20–30 minutes.

5. Rinse thoroughly with cool water and let your hair air-dry.

Tip: Use 2–3 times a week to gradually enhance natural pigment and restore shine.

5. Beet and Carrot Juice

Beet and carrot juices are great natural color boosters that give grey hair warm red and copper undertones. Beet provides a deep burgundy tint, while carrot adds a sunlit orange hue; together, they create a radiant, natural glow.

How to Apply:

1. Blend equal parts fresh beet juice and carrot juice in a bowl.

2. Mix in 1–2 tablespoons of coconut oil to help the color adhere and nourish your hair.

3. Apply the mixture evenly to clean, towel-dried hair from roots to ends.

4. Cover with a shower cap and leave it on for about 1 hour.

5. Rinse thoroughly with diluted apple cider vinegar to seal the color.

Tip: Repeat once a week to maintain a subtle red or copper tint and boost shine naturally.

6. Lemon Juice to Gradually Lighten Strands

Lemon juice is a gentle natural lightener that helps blend grey strands and adds a soft, sun-kissed glow to your hair. It’s perfect for those who prefer subtle highlights over darker tones.

How to Apply:

1. Mix equal parts fresh lemon juice and water in a spray bottle.

2. Spray the mixture evenly onto dry hair, focusing on areas with more grey strands.

3. Sit in the sunlight for 20–30 minutes to activate the lightening effect.

4. Rinse thoroughly with cool water and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.

5. Let your hair air-dry naturally.

Tip: Use this method no more than twice a week to avoid dryness, and always condition afterward to keep your hair soft and hydrated.

Explore advanced scalp treatments and personalized care techniques to promote healthy hair growth and scalp health. Revitalize Your Hair: Luxury Hair Care at Noelle Salon

7. Potato Skins to Darken Grey Hair

Potato skins are a surprising yet effective natural way to darken grey hair gradually. The starches and enzymes released from the peels help deposit a soft brown hue, enhancing shine and depth over time.

How to Apply:

1. Collect the peels from 4–5 large potatoes and boil them in 2 cups of water for about 30 minutes.

2. Strain the liquid and let it cool completely before use.

3. After shampooing, pour the potato peel water slowly over your hair, ensuring full coverage.

4. Gently massage it into your scalp and leave it on for 15–20 minutes.

5. Rinse with plain water and let your hair air-dry.

Tip: Repeat 2–3 times a week for best results. Regular use deepens your natural color and adds a healthy sheen.

8. Coconut Oil and Lemon Mixture for Natural Hair Dye

This powerful duo not only helps minimize grey strands but also nourishes your scalp and strengthens your hair. The coconut oil deeply conditions, while lemon promotes natural pigment restoration.

How to Apply:

1. Warm 2–3 tablespoons of coconut oil until slightly melted.

2. Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and mix well.

3. Massage the mixture gently into your scalp and through your hair.

4. Leave it on for about 1 hour to let the nutrients absorb fully.

5. Wash with a mild, sulfate-free shampoo and let your hair air-dry.

Tip: Use this treatment 2–3 times a week for gradual grey reduction and a natural, healthy shine.

9. Curry Leaves to Fight Grey Hair

Curry leaves are packed with antioxidants and vitamin B, which help stimulate melanin production, the natural pigment responsible for your hair color. Regular use can darken greys while strengthening hair from the roots.

How to Apply:

1. Add a handful of fresh curry leaves to 3 tablespoons of coconut oil in a small pan.

2. Heat the mixture until the leaves turn dark and crisp.

3. Allow it to cool, then strain to remove the leaves.

4. Massage the infused oil into your scalp and along the hair length.

5. Leave it on overnight for best results, then wash with a mild shampoo the next morning.

Tip: Use this 2–3 times weekly to gradually restore pigment and improve overall hair health.

Learn about the different types of hair extensions, including human hair options, and how they can add length, volume, or color to your natural hair. Beautiful Hair Secrets: Hair Extensions

10. Chamomile Tea for Natural Hair Lightening

Chamomile tea is a gentle, natural lightener that gives your hair a golden glow while softening grey strands. It’s especially effective for lighter hair shades, adding radiance and a healthy sheen.

How to Apply:

1. Boil 2 cups of water and steep 2–3 chamomile tea bags for about 15 minutes.

2. Let the tea cool completely before using it.

3. Pour the cooled tea evenly over clean, damp hair or use it as a final rinse after shampooing.

4. Leave it on for 20–30 minutes to let the color settle.

5. Rinse with cool water and condition as usual.

Tip: For a stronger lightning effect, sit in the sunlight for 10–15 minutes after applying the rinse. Use this treatment twice a week for the best results.

11. Amla (Indian Gooseberry) for Grey Hair Reversal

Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is a time-tested Ayurvedic remedy that helps restore natural pigment, strengthens roots, and prevents premature greying. Its rich vitamin C and antioxidant content make it one of the best natural options for dark, glossy hair.

How to Apply:

1. Mix 2 tablespoons of amla powder (or fresh amla juice) with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.

2. Warm the mixture slightly until it feels comfortable to touch.

3. Massage it gently into your scalp and through your hair.

4. Leave it on overnight to allow deep nourishment.

5. Wash your hair in the morning with a mild, herbal shampoo.

Tip: Use this treatment 2–3 times per week. For extra shine and color depth, mix amla with hibiscus or bhringraj powder.

12. Rosemary Oil Infusion for Darker, Stronger Hair

Rosemary is known to stimulate circulation in the scalp, strengthen follicles, and gradually darken grey hair over time. Its refreshing scent and restorative properties make it a favorite for both color and hair health.

How to Apply:

1. Boil a handful of fresh rosemary leaves in 2 cups of water for 15 minutes.

2. Let the infusion cool completely, then strain out the leaves.

3. Pour the rosemary water over clean, damp hair as a final rinse after shampooing.

4. Massage gently into your scalp and leave it on for 20–30 minutes.

5. Rinse with cool water and towel dry gently.

Tip: For deeper nourishment, mix 3–4 drops of rosemary essential oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut, and massage it into your scalp twice weekly.

13. Indigo Powder for Deep Black Tones

Indigo powder is a natural dye that gives grey hair rich black or dark brown tones. It works best when combined with henna, creating a long-lasting, deep color without chemicals or damage.

How to Apply:

1. First, apply henna to your hair for a reddish base and rinse it out after 2–3 hours.

2. Mix indigo powder with warm water to form a smooth, lump-free paste.

3. Apply the indigo paste immediately to towel-dried hair, covering all sections evenly.

4. Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it on for 1–2 hours.

5. Rinse thoroughly with cool water (avoid shampoo for 24 hours to allow the color to set).

Tip: Always prepare indigo paste fresh before application; it loses potency quickly. Repeat every 4–6 weeks for consistent, long-lasting color.

14. Walnut Shell

Walnut shells contain natural pigments that help deepen your hair color while covering grey strands. This method enhances darker tones and adds a beautiful, natural sheen without harsh chemicals.

How to Apply:

1. Crush a handful of walnut shells and add them to 2 cups of water.

2. Boil the mixture for about 30 minutes to extract the natural dye.

3. Strain the liquid and allow it to cool completely.

4. Pour the cooled liquid evenly over clean, damp hair and massage gently.

5. Leave it on for 20–30 minutes, then rinse with plain water (no shampoo).

Tip: For extra shine and hydration, mix a few drops of coconut oil into the walnut rinse before applying. Use weekly to maintain a rich, glossy tone.

15. Aloe Vera and Hibiscus Petals

Aloe vera deeply moisturizes the scalp and hair, while hibiscus petals add a soft reddish tint and enhance overall hair vitality. This blend not only adds color but also restores softness and natural shine.

How to Apply:

1. Blend a handful of fresh hibiscus petals with 3 tablespoons of aloe vera gel to form a smooth paste.

2. Apply the paste evenly from roots to tips on clean, damp hair.

3. Cover with a shower cap and let it sit for 45 minutes.

4. Rinse thoroughly with cool water and mild shampoo if needed.

5. Air-dry your hair for a natural, glossy finish.

Tip: For deeper nourishment and a longer-lasting tint, add a teaspoon of coconut or almond oil to the mix before applying.

Worried About Chemicals in Your Hair Dye? Go Natural with Noelle Salon

Tired of harsh box dyes that leave your hair dry, brittle, or uneven in tone? You’re not alone. Many people searching for natural hair dye solutions want lasting grey coverage without sacrificing shine, softness, or scalp health. That’s exactly what we specialize in at Noelle Salon.

Our Boston-based team blends professional color expertise with gentle, plant-based ingredients that respect your hair’s natural texture. Whether you’re struggling with stubborn greys, fading color, or sensitive skin, we design customized color treatments that nourish as they transform.

Book a consultation at Noelle Salon today and experience how modern color artistry and natural care can bring your hair back to life, radiant, confident, and truly yours.

Say Goodbye To Harsh Chemicals & Embrace Grey Hair the Natural Way

Covering grey hair doesn’t have to mean harsh chemicals or complicated salon visits. With simple, natural ingredients like coffee, henna, black tea, and various herbs, you can gradually restore your hair’s vibrancy while keeping it healthy and nourished.

Natural methods to cover grey hair offer more than just color; they revitalize your hair, protect your scalp, and boost confidence. Start experimenting with these gentle solutions, stay consistent, and enjoy a chemical-free, vibrant look that highlights your natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for natural hair dye to cover grey hair?

Natural hair dyes work gradually. You may notice subtle changes after a few applications, but full coverage usually takes several weeks. Consistency is key to achieving the best results while maintaining hair health.

Can natural hair dye work on all hair types?

Yes, natural hair dye is generally safe for all hair types. Results may vary based on your hair’s natural color, texture, and porosity. Always perform a patch test before applying the remedy fully.

How often should I use natural hair dye to cover grey strands?

For gradual and lasting results, apply natural hair dyes 2–3 times per week. Adjust the frequency depending on your hair type, desired shade, and how well the previous application took.

What is the best natural hair dye for grey coverage at home?

Henna, indigo, black tea, and coffee rinses are among the best natural hair dyes for grey coverage at home. They are safe, easy to use, and help restore color without harsh chemicals.

Will lemon juice or chamomile lighten my hair too much?

Lemon juice and chamomile gently lighten hair over time. They are ideal for blending grey strands or adding soft highlights. Avoid excessive use to prevent dryness, and always follow with a nourishing conditioner or oil.

Can I mix different natural dyes for better results?

Yes, combining natural dyes like henna with coffee or black tea can create richer, multidimensional shades. Experiment carefully to achieve your desired color while keeping your hair healthy.

Are natural hair dyes safer than chemical hair dyes?

Absolutely. Natural hair dyes are free from harsh chemicals like ammonia and parabens. They nourish hair, reduce scalp irritation, and offer a gentler, eco-friendly approach to covering grey strands.

Does henna cover grey hair naturally, and how long does it last?

Yes, henna effectively covers grey hair naturally, providing a reddish-brown hue. Its color can last for about 4 to 6 weeks, depending on hair type and care.

How do I apply natural hair dye to ensure even grey coverage?

To ensure even grey coverage when applying natural hair dye, section your hair, apply the dye from roots to ends, and use a comb to distribute it evenly throughout.