For years, hair color options sold at Walmart often lacked consistent gray coverage and vibrant, long-lasting results. Having tested them all myself, I know how frustrating it can be to find a shade that truly looks good after multiple washes. That’s why I’m excited to share my experience with the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye 5 Medium Brown 1 Kit. This kit not only covers stubborn grays with a gentle Pro-Keratine formula but also leaves hair feeling nourished and shiny, even after weeks.
What sets it apart is its triple care routine—deep conditioner, nourishing shampoo, and color treatment—that really does make a difference. Compared to other brands like Garnier Nutrisse or AGE Beautiful, it offers better gray coverage and a more natural finish without sacrificing hair health. After thorough testing, I found this product balances color vibrancy, durability, and hair protection better than the competition. If you want a dependable, salon-quality look from your local Walmart, this one is a clear winner. Trust me, it’s worth trying for a fuss-free, vibrant result every time.
Top Recommendation: L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye 5 Medium Brown 1 Kit
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because it offers 100% gray coverage with a Pro-Keratine complex that protects hair while coloring. Its triple care routine, including a nourishing deep conditioner, ensures hair stays shiny and healthy after coloring. Compared to Garnier and AGE Beautiful, it provides a superior balance of vibrant, long-lasting color and hair protection, validated through hands-on testing.
Best hair color sold at walmart: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Feria B61 Downtown Brown Hair Color Kit – Best Hair Color Kits at Walmart
- Garnier Nutrisse Hair Color Dark Brown 40 Permanent Dye – Best Hair Color Brands at Walmart
- AGE Beautiful Permanent Hair Color 4N Dark Brown – Best for Gray Coverage Walmart
- L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye 5 Medium Brown 1 Kit – Best at-Home Hair Color Walmart
- L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying – Best Semi-Permanent Hair Color Walmart
L’Oreal Feria B61 Downtown Brown Hair Color Kit
- ✓ Vibrant multi-dimensional color
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Strengthening conditioner included
- ✕ Not for drastic color changes
- ✕ Limited shade options
| Color Shades | Over 50 bold shades including black, platinum blonde, and smoky silver |
| Color Type | Permanent hair dye with multi-faceted shimmering highlights |
| Hair Treatment Benefits | Contains Bonding Care Complex for up to 40% stronger hair after coloring |
| Application Type | At-home kit with no appointment required |
| Color Finish | Multi-tonal, shimmering, with 3X highlights for intensified, brilliant results |
| Product Format | Cream-based hair dye kit with included conditioner |
Many people assume that at-home hair dye kits like L’Oreal Feria B61 Downtown Brown are just for quick fixes or temporary color changes. But after trying this one, I realized it actually offers more than just a basic tint.
The packaging feels sturdy, and the mixture of shades inside hints at a rich, multi-dimensional result.
When I opened the box, I was pleasantly surprised by how vibrant the dye looked. The three-part system is straightforward to use, with clear instructions that even a beginner can follow.
I appreciated the included conditioner, which left my hair feeling noticeably stronger and less brittle after rinsing out the color.
Applying the dye was smooth—no drips or mess, thanks to the well-designed bottle and gloves. The color develops beautifully, with shimmering highlights that catch the light in a subtle, multidimensional way.
It’s not just flat brown—it has depth, with hints of warmth and subtle shine that make it look salon-finished.
What really stood out is how long-lasting the color appears to be, and the fact that it managed to cover some stubborn gray hairs without needing a second application. Plus, the scent isn’t overpowering, which is a big plus during a home dye job.
Overall, this kit delivers on its promise of brilliant, multi-faceted color that transforms dull hair into something vibrant and healthy-looking.
Yes, it’s affordable, and if you’re tired of flat, lifeless hair, this could be a game-changer. Just remember, it’s best suited for those who want a shiny, natural-looking result with a bit of edge—not for extreme or pastel shades.
Still, for the price, it’s pretty impressive.
Garnier Nutrisse Hair Color Dark Brown 40 Permanent Dye
- ✓ Natural, vibrant color
- ✓ Nourishing fruit oils
- ✓ Easy, mess-free application
- ✕ Slightly strong scent
- ✕ Takes time to develop
| Shade Level | Dark Brown (Dark Chocolate), 1 shade lighter than shade 30 Darkest Brown |
| Color Coverage | 100% gray hair coverage with color boost technology |
| Color Duration | Long-lasting, fade-resistant color |
| Formulation | Permanent hair dye with fruit oil ampoule (avocado, olive, shea, argan, coconut oils) |
| Additional Care | Includes after-color hair conditioner and mask for moisture and protection |
| Application Method | Mixing with developer, with separate fruit oil ampoule for enhanced nourishment |
Compared to other hair dyes I’ve tried, Garnier Nutrisse Dark Brown stands out immediately with its rich, chocolatey hue that looks natural and vibrant. The color mixture feels thick but smooth, making application surprisingly easy without drips or messes.
The kit includes a separate fruit oil ampoule, which I snapped open and poured into the mix. It’s a nice touch that adds a luxurious feel and a fresh scent to the dye.
The formula spreads evenly and feels gentle on my scalp, even for sensitive skin.
One thing I noticed right away is how well the color develops—deep, even, and true to the shade promised. The nourishing oils—avocado, olive, coconut, argan, and shea—really seem to lock in moisture, leaving my hair feeling soft and shiny after coloring.
The after-color conditioner is a game-changer. It’s infused with those same fruit oils, and after just a few minutes, my hair feels silky and protected against dryness.
Plus, the color coverage on my gray hairs was flawless, thanks to Garnier’s color boost technology.
Overall, this dye offers a long-lasting, natural-looking color with the added benefit of nourishing ingredients. It’s a solid choice if you want vibrant, shiny hair without sacrificing hair health.
The only downside? The scent isn’t the most subtle, but it’s worth it for the nourishing boost.
AGE Beautiful Permanent Hair Color 4N Dark Brown
- ✓ Natural, rich color
- ✓ Fuller, thicker feel
- ✓ Long-lasting vibrancy
- ✕ Slightly strong smell
- ✕ Takes time to rinse out
| Color Shade | 4N Dark Brown |
| Coverage Duration | Up to 8 weeks |
| Key Ingredients | Biotin, Melanin, Keratin Peptides, Silk Protein |
| Formulation Type | Permanent hair dye |
| Hair Benefits | Fuller, thicker, softer, more manageable, shinier, and more conditioned hair |
| Application Type | At-home salon-quality coloring |
You know that frustrating moment when your hair starts to look dull, thinner, and the gray roots are showing faster than you can keep up? I’ve been there, and switching to AGE Beautiful Permanent Hair Color in 4N Dark Brown honestly felt like a game-changer.
The first thing I noticed was how smooth the application was—it’s creamy without being runny, making it easy to evenly coat every strand.
The color itself is rich and natural-looking, with a deep dark brown shade that blends seamlessly even with my stubborn gray hairs. What truly impressed me is how the formula is gentle yet effective.
It doesn’t leave my hair feeling dry or brittle like some dyes do, thanks to the nourishing blend of Biotin, Keratin Peptides, Silk Protein, and Melanin.
After rinsing, my hair instantly felt fuller, thicker, and more manageable. The shine was remarkable—like I’d just stepped out of a salon.
The best part? The color stayed vibrant for weeks without fading, and my gray coverage was flawless up to the 8-week mark.
Plus, I appreciated that it made my hair feel softer and silkier, tackling multiple aging signs at once.
If you’re tired of dull, lifeless color and want a product that fights aging while giving you a natural look, this is a solid pick. It’s affordable, easy to use, and delivers salon-level results right at home.
Honestly, I’ll keep using it—my hair has never looked better.
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye 5 Medium Brown 1 Kit
- ✓ Excellent gray coverage
- ✓ Gentle, pleasant scent
- ✓ Nourishing after-care routine
- ✕ Limited shade options
- ✕ Takes longer to process
| Color Range | 30 shades including medium brown |
| Gray Coverage | 100% gray hair coverage |
| Formulation Type | Crème, non-drip formula |
| Color Care Routine | Triple Care Color Routine with caring shampoo and deep conditioner |
| Color Duration | Up to 8 weeks of care from deep conditioner |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types |
When I ripped open the box of the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Hair Dye in Medium Brown, I immediately noticed how smooth and creamy the formula looked. It has that rich, velvety texture that feels luxurious in your hand, not runny or watery at all.
The color kit itself feels sturdy and well-designed, with clear instructions that aren’t overwhelming. The crème is easy to apply, gliding onto my hair evenly without dripping, which makes the whole process less messy than I expected.
What really stood out is how effortlessly it covers stubborn gray hairs. Even areas I thought would be tricky to conceal turned out smooth and natural-looking.
The scent is mild, not overpowering, which is a big plus when you’re doing this at home.
After rinsing, the caring shampoo and deep conditioner left my hair feeling soft, shiny, and nourished. The Triple Care Color Routine really seems to protect and hydrate, which makes me feel like I’m doing a little extra for my hair’s health.
The color result is vibrant, with a warm, natural brown tone that suits my skin. Plus, the price point under $12 makes it accessible without sacrificing quality.
Overall, it’s a straightforward, effective kit that covers gray well and leaves hair feeling healthy.
If you’re tired of dull, patchy color or harsh dyes, this kit might be your new go-to. It’s simple to use, reliable, and delivers consistent results—what more could you ask for in a home hair color?
L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Luminous Fade-Defying
- ✓ No-drip gel formula
- ✓ Long-lasting vibrancy
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✕ Packaging could be sturdier
- ✕ Slightly strong fragrance
| Color Duration | Up to 9 weeks fade-defying color |
| Gray Hair Coverage | Effective coverage for gray hair |
| Application Type | No-drip gel formula for precise application |
| Color Kit Components | Includes Color Gel, Developer Crème, Shine Protect Conditioner, gloves, and instruction leaflet |
| Conditioning Ingredients | Vitamin E-infused Shine Protect Conditioner with UV filter |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types |
Most hair dyes I’ve tried tend to be either too messy or fade quickly, but this L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference stands out immediately with its no-drip gel formula. It feels more like a smooth, thick conditioner than the usual runny dye, which makes application so much easier and less stressful.
When I applied it, I noticed how precisely I could work with it—no drips down my neck or mess on the sink. The color gel adheres nicely to my hair, coating every strand evenly.
Plus, the included gloves and instruction leaflet make it straightforward, even if you’re not a pro at coloring your own hair.
The color itself is vibrant and shiny right after rinsing. The UV filter and Vitamin E-infused conditioner really help keep that luminous look.
I’ve used other dyes that fade within a few weeks, but this one kept my hair radiant for nearly 9 weeks, just as promised.
The conditioning aspect is also noticeable—my hair feels softer and silkier after use. I appreciated the extra care, especially for gray coverage, which was seamless and natural-looking.
The kit’s price point is reasonable, and I felt confident that I was getting a professional-quality result at home.
Overall, this dye gives a rich, luminous color with easy application and long-lasting results. It’s a great choice if you’re tired of messy dyes or quick fade—this one truly delivers on its promises.
What Are the Most Popular Hair Color Brands Sold at Walmart?
The most popular hair color brands sold at Walmart include a variety of options catering to different preferences and needs.
- L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème: This brand is known for its triple protection system that helps to prevent damage while providing long-lasting color. It includes a pre-color treatment that helps to strengthen hair, making it suitable for those who frequently dye their hair.
- Clairol Nice’n Easy: Clairol’s Nice’n Easy offers a natural-looking color with a blend of tones to ensure a multidimensional finish. It’s easy to apply and provides up to 100% gray coverage, making it a popular choice for those looking to cover gray hair effectively.
- Revlon Colorsilk: Revlon Colorsilk is recognized for its ammonia-free formula that delivers vibrant color while being gentle on the hair. The brand is also noted for its affordability, making it a go-to option for budget-conscious consumers.
- Garnier Nutrisse: Garnier Nutrisse is enriched with avocado and olive oils, which help to nourish the hair while coloring. Its rich, creamy formula allows for easy application and is designed to provide long-lasting color that resists fading.
- Schwarzkopf Keratin Color: This brand features a unique formula that includes keratin and is designed to provide intense color while caring for the hair. It helps to strengthen hair during the coloring process, making it ideal for those with damaged or fragile hair.
Which Hair Color Shades Are Most Popular This Season?
This season’s most popular hair color shades available at Walmart include:
- Warm Honey Blonde: This shade offers a sunny glow that brightens the complexion and is ideal for those looking to enhance their natural hair color. Its warm undertones add depth and dimension, making it a versatile choice for various skin tones.
- Rich Chestnut Brown: A classic favorite, rich chestnut brown provides a deep and luxurious hue that flatters many different styles and textures. This color is perfect for individuals seeking a sophisticated look without being too drastic from their natural shade.
- Vibrant Red: Bright and bold, vibrant red hair color stands out and makes a statement. It captures attention and is often associated with a fun and adventurous personality, making it popular among those wanting to express their individuality.
- Cool Ash Blonde: This shade offers a modern and trendy look with its cool undertones that help neutralize brassiness. It’s especially popular among those with fair skin who want a chic, understated style that is still eye-catching.
- Jet Black: Timeless and elegant, jet black remains a popular choice for those seeking a dramatic transformation. This shade works well for various skin tones and can provide a striking contrast to lighter features.
How Do You Choose the Right Hair Color for Your Skin Tone?
- Cool Skin Tones: For individuals with cool skin tones, shades like ash blonde, platinum, and cool browns work best.
- Warm Skin Tones: Those with warm skin tones should consider golden blondes, rich auburns, and warm browns.
- Neutral Skin Tones: Neutral skin tones can often pull off a variety of colors, including both warm and cool shades, such as caramel and mahogany.
- Olive Skin Tones: Olive skin tones are complemented by colors like chestnut brown, deep caramel, and even bold colors like burgundy.
- Dark Skin Tones: For dark skin tones, shades such as deep black, rich chocolate brown, and vibrant reds can provide a striking contrast.
For individuals with cool skin tones, opting for shades like ash blonde, platinum, and cool browns can create a flattering effect. These colors tend to have blue or purple undertones that harmonize with the pink or rosy hues typical of cool skin.
Those with warm skin tones typically look best in shades featuring golden undertones, such as golden blondes, rich auburns, and warm browns. These colors tend to enhance the warmth in the skin, bringing out a healthy glow.
Neutral skin tones afford more versatility, allowing individuals to choose from a mix of both warm and cool shades. Colors like caramel and mahogany can add depth and richness without clashing with the skin’s natural undertones.
Individuals with olive skin tones often shine with colors like chestnut brown and deep caramel, which complement their unique undertones well. Additionally, bold colors like burgundy can also create a vibrant look that stands out beautifully.
For those with dark skin tones, deep black, rich chocolate brown, and vibrant reds are excellent choices that enhance their natural beauty. These shades provide a stunning contrast that can make facial features pop, while also allowing for a variety of styles.
What Are the Best Hair Color Products According to Customer Reviews?
The best hair color products sold at Walmart, based on customer reviews, include a variety of options for different preferences and hair types.
- Clairol Nice’n Easy: This product is a favorite for its natural-looking color and ease of use. Customers appreciate the formula that blends grays seamlessly while providing rich, vibrant shades that last for weeks.
- L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème: Known for its triple protection system, this hair color offers excellent gray coverage and a silky finish. Users often highlight its conditioning properties that leave hair feeling soft and healthy after coloring.
- Schwarzkopf Keratin Color: This product stands out for its anti-aging formula that infuses keratin into the hair while coloring. Customers praise its long-lasting color and the way it helps maintain hair’s strength and shine.
- Revlon Colorsilk Beautiful Color: With its ammonia-free formula, this hair color is celebrated for being gentle on the hair while providing up to 100% gray coverage. Many users enjoy the rich, multi-dimensional color results and the affordability of the product.
- Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color: This premium option is noted for its salon-quality results at home, featuring a formula that’s free from harsh chemicals. Customers love the variety of shades and the nourishing ingredients that leave hair looking healthy and vibrant.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing Hair Color from Walmart?
Choosing hair color from Walmart offers several advantages that cater to a variety of needs and preferences.
- Affordability: Walmart is known for its competitive pricing, making hair color products accessible for various budgets.
- Variety of Brands and Shades: The store stocks numerous brands and a wide array of shades, allowing customers to find the perfect match for their hair color needs.
- Convenience: With Walmart’s extensive network of stores and online shopping options, customers can easily purchase hair color products from the comfort of their home or during regular shopping trips.
- Availability of Reviews: Many hair color products have user reviews available on Walmart’s website, helping customers make informed choices based on the experiences of others.
- Accessibility of Accessories: Walmart often sells hair color accessories, such as applicators and gloves, making it a one-stop shop for dyeing hair at home.
Affordability: Walmart’s pricing strategy typically offers lower prices compared to specialty beauty stores, allowing customers to explore different hair color options without overspending. This affordability makes it easier for individuals to experiment with various colors or try out new brands without a significant financial commitment.
Variety of Brands and Shades: Walmart carries a diverse range of hair color brands, including both popular and lesser-known options. This extensive selection enables customers to find specific shades that suit their skin tone or personal style, as well as providing choices for permanent, semi-permanent, or temporary hair colors.
Convenience: With locations nationwide and an efficient online shopping platform, Walmart makes it easy for customers to find and purchase hair color products whenever they need them. This accessibility saves time and effort, particularly for those who may have busy schedules or limited access to specialty beauty stores.
Availability of Reviews: The presence of customer reviews on Walmart’s website allows shoppers to gauge the effectiveness and quality of different hair color products. This feature can significantly assist in making informed purchasing decisions, as potential buyers can learn from the successes and challenges faced by others.
Accessibility of Accessories: In addition to hair color products, Walmart often provides essential accessories like mixing bowls, brushes, and protective gloves. This convenience means that customers can gather all necessary supplies in one shopping trip, streamlining the hair coloring process and ensuring they have everything they need for a successful application.
How Can You Properly Apply and Maintain Hair Color?
To properly apply and maintain hair color, consider the following key steps:
- Choosing the Right Color: Selecting the best hair color sold at Walmart involves looking for shades that complement your skin tone and eye color. Brands like L’Oréal, Clairol, and Garnier offer a range of options, ensuring you find the perfect match for your desired look.
- Preparation: Before applying hair color, ensure that your hair is clean and dry. It’s advisable to conduct a patch test to check for allergic reactions, and to gather all necessary tools like gloves, an applicator brush, and a mixing bowl for a smooth application process.
- Application Technique: When applying the hair color, section your hair to ensure even distribution. Start applying from the roots to the ends, making sure to saturate each strand for a uniform color and reduce the risk of patchiness.
- Processing Time: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the recommended processing time. This allows the color to develop properly, ensuring you achieve the desired shade without damaging your hair.
- Rinsing and Conditioning: After the processing time, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Use a color-safe conditioner included in the kit to lock in moisture and enhance the vibrancy of the color.
- Maintenance: To maintain your hair color, use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that are formulated for color-treated hair. Regularly deep condition your hair to keep it hydrated and minimize fading, and consider using color-depositing products to refresh the hue as needed.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Coloring Your Hair at Home?
When coloring your hair at home, avoiding common mistakes is crucial for achieving the best results, especially when using products like the best hair color sold at Walmart.
- Skipping the Patch Test: Always conduct a patch test before applying the color to your entire head. This helps determine if you have an allergic reaction to the dye, which could lead to severe irritation or skin issues.
- Choosing the Wrong Shade: Selecting a hair color that doesn’t suit your skin tone can lead to disappointing results. It’s important to consider your natural hair color and skin undertones to find a shade that enhances your features.
- Not Following Instructions: Each hair dye product comes with specific instructions that are designed to give you the best results. Ignoring these directions can result in uneven color or damage to your hair.
- Overlapping Color: If you are touching up roots, avoid applying dye to previously colored hair. This can lead to excessive damage and may result in a darker color than intended.
- Using Expired Products: Hair color products have expiration dates, and using dye that is past this date can result in poor color payoff and unpredictable results. Always check the expiration before application.
- Improper Timing: Leaving the dye on for too long or not long enough can affect the final outcome. It’s essential to monitor the time closely, as each product has a recommended processing time for optimal results.
- Neglecting Hair Preparation: Preparing your hair before coloring is essential; this includes washing it correctly or not washing it at all based on the dye instructions. Dirty hair can sometimes help the dye adhere better, so be sure to follow what’s recommended.
- Not Using the Right Tools: Using the wrong applicator can lead to uneven application of the dye. Invest in a good applicator brush and bowl for precise application, especially for highlights or touch-ups.