I used light brown dye to tone my red hair, cover gray, and love the conditioner.

2026-01-18 Shampoo reviews Categroy：Men's Views：62

With the dual pump hair color, I toned my red hair and covered gray in 20 minutes. No scalp irritation occurred, and the conditioner is so good I ordered a large jar.

This is a review from Amazon.com about product:

Herbishh Hair Color Shampoo for Gray Hair – Magic Hair Dye Shampoo – Colors Hair in Minutes–Long Lasting–500 Ml–3-In-1 Hair Color–Ammonia-Free (Black)

My Light Brown Dye Success: Toning Red Hair & Covering Gray

My natural color is brown. It has Carmel highlights that I decided to dye auburn. It’s fading to a fiery red. I used light brown to see if it would tone it down some, and it did!! It’s still got a good bit of red, but it’s definitely better.

This is a dual pump bottle. One side has a white cream and the other side has the color. At first, I couldn’t get the white cream to come out, so I used the plug that comes in the pump, to block the color side. Finally, it worked. I put mine in a hair color bowl and mixed it well with a hair applicator brush. I used both, the brush and my hands, to apply. Left it on for 20 minutes. No irritation to my scalp. It didn’t completely cover the gray at my temples, but I was also trying to apply lightly so it wouldn’t stain my skin (it stained my skin anyway). It did cover the gray on top of my head. It did not stain my tile or my towel.

The conditioner that comes with it is amazing! I just ordered a big jar of it.

Shampoo Basics & Tips

How Hair Dye Works

Hair dye, like the light brown shade I used, contains chemicals such as ammonia and peroxide that open the hair cuticle to deposit color. Permanent dyes lift your natural pigment and replace it with new color, while semi-permanent options coat the hair shaft. In my case, the light brown dye helped neutralize the fiery red tones by adding cooler pigments, balancing out unwanted warmth. This process is based on color theory, where complementary colors cancel each other out—for example, green cancels red, but in this instance, light brown provided a subtle toning effect.

Using Dual Pump Bottles for Hair Color

The dual pump bottle I encountered dispenses two components: a white cream (often the developer) and the colorant. This design ensures accurate mixing for consistent results. If one side doesn't work initially, as I experienced, blocking the other pump with the included plug can help build pressure. Always mix thoroughly in a bowl with a brush to avoid patchiness. This method reduces waste and makes application easier, especially for at-home users.

Toning Unwanted Hair Colors

Toning involves using a dye to adjust or neutralize undesired shades, like my fiery red fade. Light brown dyes contain ashy or neutral undertones that can soften red hues without fully covering them. It's a common technique for maintaining color between full dye jobs. For best results, choose a tone opposite on the color wheel—here, light brown's coolness balanced the red's warmth.

Covering Gray Hair Effectively

Gray hair can be stubborn due to its lack of pigment, making it resistant to dye. In my review, the product covered gray on top but not at the temples, possibly because those areas have coarser hair or less product penetration. To improve coverage, apply dye directly to gray sections first and leave it on longer (check product instructions). Using a brush ensures even distribution, and formulas with higher developer volumes often work better for full gray coverage.

Ensuring Scalp Safety During Coloring

Scalp irritation is a common concern with hair dyes, but I had none, likely due to gentle ingredients like low ammonia or conditioning agents. Always perform a patch test 48 hours before use to check for allergies. Look for dyes labeled "hypoallergenic" or "scalp-friendly" to minimize risks. If irritation occurs, rinse immediately and consult a dermatologist.

Preventing Dye Stains on Skin and Surfaces

Despite my efforts, the dye stained my skin, which happens when pigments settle on porous surfaces. To prevent this, apply petroleum jelly around hairline before dyeing and wear gloves. For stains, use soap and water or makeup remover. As I noted, it didn't stain tiles or towels, suggesting the formula is less prone to transferring once dry—always do a spot test on fabrics first.

The Importance of Conditioner in Hair Care

The conditioner included with the dye, which I loved, helps restore moisture and seal the hair cuticle after coloring. It reduces frizz, enhances shine, and protects against damage from chemical processes. For colored hair, conditioners with UV filters or color-lock technology can extend vibrancy. I ordered a large jar because consistent use maintains softness and health.

Daily Shampoo Tips for Colored Hair

Since you mentioned shampoo products, it's key to use sulfate-free shampoos for colored hair to prevent fading. Wash less frequently (2-3 times a week) with cool water to preserve color. Look for shampoos with nourishing ingredients like argan oil or keratin, which support hair strength and hydration. Avoid clarifying shampoos daily, as they can strip color—reserve them for monthly deep cleanses.