When it comes to hair color, the word natural can be misleading. Many products marketed as natural still contain chemicals, and when it comes to covering grey hair, finding a truly natural permanent hair dye that works is nearly impossible. Even the cleanest options require some level of chemical processing. So, what’s the safest option that actually works? Let’s break it down.

What’s the Cleanest Hair Color Option for Grey Coverage?

First, it’s important to clarify that natural doesn’t always mean safer. For example, arsenic and uranium are both natural, but you certainly wouldn’t want to apply either to your hair!

When choosing hair color, it’s all about finding the right balance between effectiveness and safety. The brand I trust and use most in my salon is Organic Colour Systems (OCS). It stands out from traditional hair dyes in several key ways, offering a low-toxin alternative without sacrificing performance.

What Makes Organic Colour Systems Different?

OCS is a permanent hair color line that blends performance with sustainability and transparency. Here’s why it’s my go-to:

 Certified B Corp – OCS is ethically run and focused on sustainability.

 Eco-Friendly Packaging – Uses post-consumer plastics, recyclable materials, and corn starch-based shipping materials.

 Locally Sourced Ingredients – 75% of the ingredients are sourced from local suppliers in the UK.

 Low-Toxin Formulation – 95% natural and 60% certified organic, with independent verification for transparency.

What About Chemicals?

No hair dye is completely chemical-free, and OCS is no exception. However, it does use the lowest possible levels of chemicals while ensuring effective grey coverage.

OCS contains PPD (paraphenylenediamine) and PTD (paratoluenediamine), but in reduced amounts to minimize allergic reactions. Many clients who are sensitive to traditional dyes find they can tolerate OCS. For those who can’t, there’s a completely PPD/PTD-free semi-permanent range available.

OCS Avoids These Harmful Chemicals:

 Ammonia – A neurotoxin and environmental pollutant.

 Resorcinol – A known carcinogen and endocrine disruptor.

 Parabens – Linked to fertility issues and cancer.

Transparency and Safety First

In my experience, OCS is the most transparent hair color company out there. They’re the only brand willing and able to provide me with detailed information about the ingredients in each shade. This is essential when working with clients who have had previous reactions to hair dye.

For example, darker shades of dye typically contain more PPD, while lighter shades contain less. OCS provides pharmaceutical-grade hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) to mix with its color—a big advantage since it’s free from industrial contaminants found in standard peroxide formulations. This makes it a cleaner, safer choice for both the hair and scalp.

The Bottom Line

No hair dye is completely non-toxic, but in my opinion, Organic Colour Systems is one of the safest and most sustainable options available today. It’s a healthier choice for your hair, scalp, and the planet. If you’ve had trouble with traditional hair dyes or are simply looking for a cleaner beauty option, OCS is worth considering.

If you’re curious about making the switch to a low-toxin hair color, feel free to reach out or book a consultation at the salon. Together, we’ll find the best option for you!