Dye Shampoo vs. Box Dye: What's the Difference?

If you want to cover grey hair at home, you have two main options: a traditional box dye or a dye shampoo. Both work, but they suit different people. Here is an honest look at the differences.

How they work

Box dye is a two-part system. You mix a colour cream with a developer, apply it, and wait 30 to 45 minutes. The colour is designed to be permanent until your hair grows out.

Dye shampoo is a single product you apply like a regular shampoo. There is nothing to mix. You leave it on for 5 to 30 minutes depending on the shade, then rinse.

Side by side

• Preparation: box dye needs mixing and sectioning. Dye shampoo is ready to use.
• Time: box dye usually takes 45 minutes or more in total. Dye shampoo takes 5 to 30 minutes.
• How long it lasts: box dye lasts until it grows out. Dye shampoo typically lasts 1 to 2 weeks, depending on how often you wash.
• Upkeep: box dye leaves a visible line at the roots as your hair grows. With dye shampoo you refresh regularly, so the grey never builds up.
• Beards: box dye is fiddly on facial hair. Dye shampoo is easy to massage into a beard.

When box dye makes more sense

If you want a dramatic colour change, want to go lighter than your natural shade, or only want to colour your hair a few times a year, box dye or a salon visit is the better choice. Dye shampoo cannot lighten hair.

When dye shampoo makes more sense

If your main goal is keeping greys out of sight with as little effort as possible, dye shampoo fits better. It suits people who want a quick routine they can repeat every week or two, men who want to cover grey in their hair or beard without a salon visit, and anyone who finds box dye messy or time-consuming.

What about safety?

Any product that colours hair can cause a reaction in some people, and that goes for dye shampoo too. Always do a patch test behind your ear 48 hours before first use, and stop if you notice redness or itching. Nova Hair Instant Dye Shampoo is free from ammonia, parabens and silicones, and contains ginseng, black sesame and fo-ti extracts.

The bottom line

Box dye is the better choice for big, long-lasting colour changes. Dye shampoo is the better choice for easy, regular grey coverage that fits into your normal routine.

Want to give it a try? Read how to use Nova Hair Dye Shampoo or find your shade.