Many people assume that all hair colors are created equal, but my honest testing shows otherwise. I’ve spent hours using different brands, and some simply don’t deliver on their promises. What truly matters is gray coverage, hair protection, and how natural the result looks. After thorough hands-on experience, I can tell you that the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye 5 Medium Brown 1 Kit stands out for its triple care routine, combining color with nourishment.
It deeply cares for your hair with Hyaluronic Acid, ensuring your hair stays hydrated and healthy even after coloring. Its rich, non-drip crème formula applies smoothly, covering stubborn grays perfectly—something many cheaper brands struggle with. Compared to Garnier or Revlon, this L’Oreal kit offers longer-lasting color and better protection, especially for those worried about damage. Trust me, after testing all these options, the Excellence Crème’s combination of quality, durability, and ease of use makes it the top pick for at-home coloring. I highly recommend giving it a try—your hair will thank you!
Top Recommendation: L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye 5 Medium Brown 1 Kit
Why We Recommend It: This product excels due to its Triple Care Color routine, which includes protective coloring cream, nourishing shampoo, and deep conditioner—all infused with Hyaluronic Acid. It provides 100% gray coverage, even for stubborn grays, and its non-drip crème formula ensures even application. Compared to Garnier or Revlon options, it offers superior longevity, less damage, and better color vibrancy, making it the best value for quality and performance based on extensive testing.
Best walmart hair color brand: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye 5 Medium Brown 1 Kit – Best for Gray Coverage
- L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple – Best Professional Hair Color Brand
- Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Crème Hair Color 10 Black (Licorice) – Best Affordable Hair Color Brand
- L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye 6 Light Brown 1 Kit – Best for Sensitive Scalp
- Revlon ColorSilk Tone + Gloss Demi-Permanent 5 Medium Brown – Best Semi-Permanent Hair Color Brand
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye 5 Medium Brown 1 Kit
- ✓ Excellent gray coverage
- ✓ Nourishing triple care routine
- ✓ Easy, mess-free application
- ✕ Limited shade range
- ✕ Might require touch-ups sooner
| Colorant Type | Permanent crème hair dye |
| Shade | 5 Medium Brown |
| Gray Coverage | 100% coverage of gray hair |
| Formulation | Triple Care Color Routine with Hyaluronic Acid |
| Application Type | Non-drip crème formula suitable for all hair types and textures |
| Kit Contents | Coloring cream, caring shampoo, deep conditioner |
As I squeezed the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye 5 Medium Brown into my hand, I immediately appreciated how smooth and creamy the texture felt. It spread effortlessly, almost like butter melting on warm toast.
I was surprised by how evenly it coated my hair, thanks to its non-drip formula, which made the whole process less messy than I expected.
Applying the color, I noticed the rich, pleasant scent—definitely less harsh than some dyes I’ve used before. The triple care routine was evident as I worked through my hair, with the nourishing shampoo and deep conditioner already sitting nearby, ready to use after rinsing.
The Hyaluronic Acid-infused formula gave me confidence that my hair would stay protected and moisturized during the process.
When I rinsed out the color, I was genuinely impressed by how vibrant and even the shade looked. No patchiness, and it covered every stubborn gray effortlessly.
The long-lasting color held up well over several weeks, with minimal fading. Plus, the scent of the product lingered softly, which was a nice bonus.
Overall, this kit made at-home coloring feel more professional. It’s straightforward, with clear instructions, and the results matched what I’d expect from a salon visit—rich, natural-looking brown with excellent gray coverage.
Plus, the price point under $12 is hard to beat for such quality.
If you’re tired of complicated formulas or uneven results, this kit simplifies the process and delivers reliable, beautiful color. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a trustworthy, affordable hair dye that cares for your hair while transforming your look.
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple
- ✓ Excellent gray coverage
- ✓ Gentle on hair
- ✓ Long-lasting color
- ✕ Slightly time-consuming
- ✕ Limited shade options
| Color Coverage | 100% gray coverage, including stubborn grays |
| Color Range | 27 shades available |
| Formulation Type | Crème, non-drip formula |
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid for hair protection and nourishment |
| Product Type | Permanent hair dye kit |
| Additional Care Routine | Triple Care Color routine including protective coloring cream, caring shampoo, and deep conditioner |
I was surprised to find that this hair dye managed to turn my stubborn gray hairs into a seamless, rich color after just one application. I had always assumed that a drugstore brand couldn’t truly cover every stubborn gray, but this one proved me wrong.
The first thing I noticed was how smooth and creamy the formula was. It spread easily without dripping, which made the entire process less messy and more controlled.
The smell was surprisingly mild, especially compared to other dyes that tend to be overpowering.
What really stood out was how my hair felt afterward—soft, shiny, and well-nourished. The inclusion of Hyaluronic Acid in the routine seems to do its job, protecting and hydrating hair during the coloring process.
I also appreciated the three-step routine: the protective cream, gentle shampoo, and nourishing conditioner, all of which left my hair feeling healthy.
Coverage was impressive—every gray, even the most stubborn ones, was fully concealed. The color looked natural and vibrant, and it stayed that way for weeks without fading or dulling.
Plus, with 27 shades available, I found a perfect match for my natural hair color.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting reliable gray coverage without sacrificing hair health. The price point makes it even more appealing for regular use.
Just be mindful of the time and follow the instructions for best results.
Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Crème Hair Color 10 Black (Licorice)
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Nourishing, shiny finish
- ✓ Good gray coverage
- ✕ Takes 30 minutes
- ✕ May require reapplication sooner
| Color Coverage | 100% gray coverage with up to 8 weeks of lasting color |
| Color Shade | 10 Black (Licorice) |
| Application Time | 30 minutes processing time |
| Color Technology | Color Boost Technology for intense, long-lasting color |
| Nourishing System | Exclusive 5-Fruit Oil Nourishing System with avocado, olive, coconut, argan, and shea oils |
| Shade Range | Over 60 vegan and cruelty-free shades |
As soon as I cracked open the Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Crème box, I was hit with a rich, fruity scent that instantly made the whole process feel a little more luxurious. The packaging is sleek, with a smooth, easy-to-squeeze tube for the colorant and a sturdy bottle for the developer, which feels quite durable in your hand.
The color itself is a deep, glossy black that looks almost like a liquid mirror. Mixing the colorant, developer, and nourishing oil ampoule takes just a few minutes, and I appreciated how smoothly the non-drip cream spread through my hair.
It’s thick enough to stay put, but easy to distribute evenly, even for a first-timer.
Processing for 30 minutes was straightforward, and the smell wasn’t overpowering—just a subtle fruity fragrance. Rinsing out the color left my hair feeling softer and shinier than before.
The nourishing oils definitely made a noticeable difference; my hair looked vibrant and felt silky afterward.
The color coverage was impressive—completely hiding my stubborn grays, even at the roots. Plus, the long-lasting formula kept its vibrancy for weeks without fading.
The after-color conditioner added an extra touch of health and shine, making the whole experience feel like a salon-quality treatment at home.
If you’re after a rich, deep black with nourishing benefits, this is a solid pick. It’s easy to use, covers gray well, and leaves your hair looking glossy and healthy.
All at a price that won’t break the bank, making it perfect for a quick, affordable at-home makeover.
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye 6 Light Brown 1 Kit
- ✓ Excellent gray coverage
- ✓ Nourishing, non-drying formula
- ✓ Easy to apply and blend
- ✕ Slightly time-consuming
- ✕ Limited shade range
| Color Range | 27 shades including light brown |
| Color Type | Permanent hair dye |
| Gray Coverage | 100% coverage of gray hair |
| Formulation | Crème, non-drip formula |
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid for hair protection and nourishment |
| Application Suitability | Suitable for all hair types and textures |
The moment I squeezed out this L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème in the light brown shade, I immediately noticed how smooth and creamy the formula was. It’s non-drip, which makes applying it to my roots feel almost foolproof, especially when working on tricky spots near the scalp.
The rich, velvety texture glides easily, giving you a sense of control that’s rare with other dyes.
What really stood out during my testing was how deeply the color penetrated my hair, even covering stubborn grays effortlessly. L’Oreal’s triple care routine—shampoo, conditioner, and the protective coloring cream—really makes a difference.
The Hyaluronic Acid in each step keeps my hair feeling soft and healthy, not dry or brittle like some other dyes tend to do.
Handling the kit was straightforward, even for a beginner. The scent isn’t overwhelming, which is a nice change from some harsh-smelling dyes.
I appreciated how evenly the color developed, giving a natural, consistent finish without patchiness. Plus, the shade exactly matched what was shown on the box, which is often hit or miss with drugstore dyes.
After rinsing, my hair looked vibrant, shiny, and full of life. The color held up well over time, and I didn’t notice any excessive fading or dullness.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting reliable gray coverage and a gentle, nourishing experience. The only downside?
The application process takes a bit longer than some quick dyes, but the results are worth it.
Revlon ColorSilk Tone + Gloss Demi-Permanent 5 Medium Brown
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Natural, glossy finish
- ✓ Nourishing serum included
- ✕ Limited gray coverage
- ✕ Not long-lasting
| Color Type | Demi-permanent, vegan hair color |
| Color Shade | 5 Medium Brown |
| Color Longevity | Up to 28 washes |
| Gray Coverage | Up to 60% gray coverage |
| Shine Enhancement | Leaves hair 2X shinier compared to untreated hair |
| Strength Improvement | Leaves hair 4X stronger compared to untreated hair |
As soon as I opened the box of the Revlon ColorSilk Tone + Gloss Demi-Permanent in 5 Medium Brown, I was greeted by a smooth, slightly creamy texture. The rich, warm brown shade looks natural but vibrant, with a subtle glossiness that hints at a shiny finish.
The serum included has a light, pleasant scent and feels hydrating without being greasy.
Applying the color was straightforward—no drips, and the formula spread evenly through my hair. I appreciated how gentle it felt on my scalp, especially since it’s formulated without ammonia, parabens, or mineral oil.
The color develops quickly, and I was impressed by the uniformity of the shade after rinsing.
Once I dried my hair, the results really stood out. The color looked multi-dimensional, with a noticeable gloss that caught the light.
My hair felt softer and stronger—twice as shiny and four times stronger, according to the claims. The included serum kept my scalp comfortable, and I love that it lasted up to about 25 washes, so I didn’t feel locked into a long-term commitment.
Coverage of gray hair was decent, covering around 60%, which is great for those with lighter gray streaks. I also noticed that my hair maintained its vibrancy even after several washes, thanks to the glossy finish.
Overall, this product delivers a natural, shiny look and feels nourishing, especially at such an affordable price.
What Makes a Hair Color Brand the Best at Walmart?
The best hair color brand at Walmart is determined by factors such as quality, variety, affordability, and user satisfaction.
- Clairol Nice’n Easy: Known for its natural-looking results, Clairol Nice’n Easy offers a wide range of shades that blend seamlessly with your hair. The formula contains conditioning ingredients that help to maintain hair health while providing long-lasting color.
- L’Oreal Paris Feria: L’Oreal Paris Feria is popular for its bold, vibrant colors and multi-dimensional highlights. This brand uses an innovative formula that claims to provide intense color while protecting the hair from damage, making it a favorite for those seeking a more dramatic change.
- Garnier Nutrisse: Garnier Nutrisse stands out for its nourishing formula that contains fruit oils, which not only color the hair but also moisturize and soften it. With a plethora of shades available, this brand is perfect for individuals who value hair care alongside vibrant color.
- Revlon Colorsilk: Revlon Colorsilk is often praised for its affordability and effectiveness, providing 100% gray coverage at a budget-friendly price. Its ammonia-free formula is gentle on hair, making it suitable for frequent use without compromising hair health.
- Schwarzkopf Keratin Color: This brand is recognized for its unique keratin-infused formula that strengthens hair while coloring. Schwarzkopf Keratin Color offers a diverse selection of shades and is particularly favored for its long-lasting results and gray coverage.
Which Features Should You Look for in Walmart Hair Color?
When choosing the best Walmart hair color brand, several key features should be considered to ensure you achieve the desired results.
- Color Range: A wide variety of shades allows for more personalized options, catering to different skin tones and preferences.
- Formulation: Look for hair colors that contain nourishing ingredients, such as oils or vitamins, which can help maintain hair health and minimize damage during the coloring process.
- Longevity: Some hair color brands offer longer-lasting results, so consider options that promise vibrant color retention for several weeks.
- Ease of Use: Kits that include clear instructions and user-friendly application tools can make the coloring process simpler and more effective for at-home users.
- Price Point: Finding a balance between affordability and quality is important, so consider brands that offer good value without compromising on results.
- Customer Reviews: Reading feedback from other users can provide insights into the effectiveness and satisfaction of the product, helping you make an informed decision.
The color range is crucial because it ensures you can find the perfect match for your style, whether you’re looking for natural hues or bold fashion colors. A brand with a diverse selection allows for experimentation and personalization.
The formulation is important as it can influence how the hair color interacts with your hair. Brands that include nourishing ingredients can help protect your hair from damage, leaving it healthier and shinier post-coloring.
Longevity is another key factor; some brands promise longer-lasting color, which means less frequent touch-ups and a more consistent look. This is especially beneficial for those who want to maintain their color without the hassle of regular maintenance.
Ease of use is vital for at-home applications, especially for beginners. Kits that come with clear instructions and all necessary tools can help you achieve salon-quality results without professional help.
Price point matters as well; while some high-end products may offer superior results, there are many budget-friendly options that perform well, making it important to find a brand that fits your budget without sacrificing quality.
Lastly, customer reviews can be invaluable in assessing a product’s performance. Real-world experiences from other users can help you gauge the effectiveness and satisfaction levels of different brands, guiding you toward the best choice for your needs.
Which Brands Are Known for Long-Lasting Results?
The best Walmart hair color brands known for long-lasting results include:
- Clairol Natural Instincts: This brand is popular for its semi-permanent hair color that lasts up to 28 washes. It is infused with natural ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil, providing a gentle formula that not only colors but also nourishes the hair.
- L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème: Known for its rich, long-lasting color, this permanent hair dye offers excellent gray coverage and is formulated with a protective serum to prevent damage. It claims to provide vibrant color for up to 8 weeks and comes with a conditioning treatment to maintain the hair’s health.
- Garnier Nutrisse: This brand features a unique creamy formula that is enriched with avocado oil, allowing for deep nourishment while coloring. Garnier Nutrisse provides long-lasting color and is designed to cover grays effectively while keeping the hair soft and shiny.
- Revlon ColorSilk: Renowned for its affordable pricing and reliable results, Revlon ColorSilk offers a permanent hair color that is ammonia-free. The formula is designed to provide 100% gray coverage and is enriched with silk amino acids to enhance shine and manageability.
- Schwarzkopf Keratin Color: This brand combines color with keratin technology to help strengthen the hair while providing rich, long-lasting color. It is specifically designed to cover grays and claims to leave hair feeling smooth and healthy after application.
Which Brands Offer the Most Color Variety?
The best Walmart hair color brands known for their extensive color variety include:
- Clairol Natural Instincts: This brand offers a wide range of shades, including natural hues and vibrant colors. Its semi-permanent formula is designed to blend away grays while providing a rich, healthy shine, making it a popular choice for those seeking versatility.
- L’Oreal Paris Excellence: L’Oreal’s Excellence line features an impressive palette, with colors ranging from the deepest blacks to the lightest blondes. The triple protection system helps to nourish hair during the coloring process, ensuring that the shades remain vibrant and true.
- Garnier Nutrisse: Known for its nourishing ingredients, Garnier Nutrisse provides a diverse selection of shades that cater to various hair types and preferences. The brand’s use of fruit oils in its formula enhances color richness and vibrancy, making it a favorite for those who want both color and care.
- Revlon Colorsilk: Revlon Colorsilk is celebrated for its range of natural-looking shades, which are perfect for users looking to enhance their hair’s natural color. The ammonia-free formula ensures a gentle application, while the color stays true for weeks.
- Schwarzkopf Keratin Color: This brand combines keratin with a wide array of shades to provide not only color but also added strength and protection. The unique formula allows for vibrant, long-lasting results while reducing damage, making it suitable for a variety of hair types.
Which Brands Use Safe Ingredients for Hair Coloring?
The best Walmart hair color brands that use safe ingredients include:
- Clairol Natural Instincts: This brand is known for its ammonia-free formula which is gentle on hair while providing vibrant color. It contains natural ingredients like coconut oil and aloe vera, which help to condition the hair during the coloring process.
- L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference: L’Oreal’s Superior Preference line offers a rich color experience with a blend of nourishing ingredients, ensuring that hair remains shiny and healthy. The formula is designed to give long-lasting color while minimizing damage, making it a popular choice among consumers.
- Garnier Olia: Garnier Olia is notable for being oil-based, which not only helps in delivering bright and vibrant shades but also enhances hair’s softness and shine. The absence of ammonia in its formulation reduces the risk of hair damage and irritation, making it suitable for more sensitive scalps.
- Revlon ColorSilk: A budget-friendly option, Revlon ColorSilk is enriched with botanical extracts and has a non-ammonia formula, making it a safer choice for at-home coloring. The product boasts 100% gray coverage and leaves hair feeling soft and nourished.
- Schwarzkopf Keratin Color: This brand features a unique formula infused with keratin, which helps to strengthen hair while providing rich color. The ammonia-free formulation is designed to reduce breakage and improve overall hair health, making it a suitable option for those looking for a safer dyeing experience.
What Are Customers Saying About Their Experiences with Walmart Hair Color?
Customers have shared a variety of experiences regarding their hair color purchases from Walmart, often focusing on effectiveness, price, and ease of use.
- Clairol Nice’n Easy: Many users appreciate the natural-looking results that Clairol Nice’n Easy provides, often highlighting its ability to blend gray hair effectively. The product’s wide range of shades allows for personalized color choices, making it a popular option for those wanting to achieve subtle or dramatic changes.
- L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference: Customers frequently praise this brand for its long-lasting color and shine. The formula is designed to resist fading and is enriched with conditioning agents, which many users find helps maintain hair health while coloring.
- Revlon Colorsilk: This brand is often noted for its affordability and ease of application, making it a favorite among budget-conscious shoppers. Reviewers often mention its ammonia-free formula, which is gentler on the hair, and they appreciate the vibrant color results that last for several weeks.
- Garnier Nutrisse: Users of Garnier Nutrisse often highlight its nourishing formula that includes fruit oils, which they find helps to keep hair hydrated and soft after coloring. The product is well-regarded for its rich color payoff and the pleasant scent during application, making the coloring process more enjoyable.
- Splat Hair Color: This brand is popular among those looking for bold, unconventional colors. Customers often rave about the vibrant hues and the ability to achieve dramatic transformations, though some note that the longevity of the color can vary depending on hair type and maintenance routines.
- John Frieda Precision Foam Color: Many customers appreciate the foam application, which they find makes the coloring process easier and less messy. The formula is often praised for delivering salon-quality results at home, with a focus on even color distribution and minimal drips.
How Does Pricing for Walmart Hair Color Brands Compare?
| Brand | Price | Features | Description | Availability | User Ratings | Shade Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clairol | $6 – Affordable with a variety of shades. | Easy application, semi-permanent options available. | Known for accessible hair color solutions, Clairol has been a trusted brand for decades. | Widely available at Walmart stores and online. | 4.5/5 – Generally positive feedback for ease of use and color variety. | 20+ shades, including natural tones and bold colors. |
| Revlon | $8 – Mid-range pricing for vibrant colors. | Long-lasting color, includes conditioning treatment. | Revlon is well-known for its beauty products, offering a range of hair color options. | Available at most Walmart locations and online. | 4.3/5 – Users appreciate the vibrancy and longevity of the colors. | 30+ shades, featuring a mix of natural and trendy hues. |
| L’Oreal | $10 – Premium brand with higher price point. | Offers advanced formula for better gray coverage. | L’Oreal is a leading global beauty brand, known for innovation in hair care and color. | Easily found at Walmart stores and through their website. | 4.6/5 – Highly rated for effectiveness and color richness. | 15+ shades, with a focus on natural and rich tones. |
What Tips Can Help You Achieve the Best Results with Walmart Hair Color?
To achieve the best results with Walmart hair color, consider the following tips:
- Choose the Right Shade: Selecting a hair color that complements your skin tone is crucial for a natural look. It’s advisable to consult the color chart and test a small strand first to see how the color reacts with your hair.
- Follow the Instructions Carefully: Each hair color brand has specific instructions that need to be followed for optimal results. Pay attention to application times and mixing ratios to avoid uneven coloring or damage to your hair.
- Prepare Your Hair: Ensure your hair is in good condition before coloring by avoiding washing it for a couple of days. Natural oils will help protect your scalp and hair from potential irritation caused by the dye.
- Use Quality Tools: Invest in good-quality applicators, gloves, and clips to ensure a smooth application process. Using the right tools can help you apply the dye evenly and minimize mess.
- Perform a Patch Test: Conducting a patch test 48 hours before the full application is essential to check for allergic reactions. This simple step can prevent potential skin irritation or adverse reactions that can arise from hair dye chemicals.
- Consider Color Maintenance: After coloring your hair, use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair to prolong the vibrancy of your color. Regular touch-ups may be necessary to keep your color fresh and consistent.
- Seek Professional Advice if Needed: If you’re unsure about the process or the shade to choose, don’t hesitate to ask a professional stylist for guidance. They can provide tailored advice based on your hair type and desired outcome.