The Science Behind Ammonia-Free Hair Colour: How Naturtint Works
Naturtint is one of the most searched “better choice” permanent hair dyes in Australia because it targets a very specific brief: reliable oxidative colour (including grey coverage), without the harsh ammonia smell and aggressive cuticle lift that can leave hair feeling rough. Instead of ammonia, Naturtint uses MEA (monoethanolamine / ethanolamine) as the alkaliser — a slower-diffusing molecule that can feel gentler during application and less fume-heavy in the bathroom. The real win, though, is consistency: predictable tone, practical shade selection, and aftercare habits that reduce fade and dryness. This guide explains how Naturtint works, what “ammonia-free” and “MEA-based” actually mean, how to choose the right shade level, and how to colour at home in a way that keeps the hair fibre and scalp barrier happy over time.
If you’re searching for Naturtint in Australia, you’re probably not looking for “perfectly natural” hair dye — you’re looking for a permanent colour that delivers a believable result with fewer fumes, less irritation, and a finish that still looks polished. Naturtint is an ammonia-free oxidative hair dye, meaning it still relies on modern colour chemistry (dye precursors + peroxide) to create durable pigment, but swaps the traditional alkaliser (ammonia) for MEA, which tends to diffuse more slowly and volatilise less.
Below we’ll break down what that means for scalp comfort, hair fibre feel, and shade predictability — plus the practical steps that make the biggest difference for grey coverage and longevity (timing, residue control, and aftercare). This is the “what actually works” guide for Naturtint — written for Australian shoppers who want better results with fewer trade-offs.
References & Sources: Cosmetic chemistry and scalp-safety notes referenced in this guide are listed in the Sources box below.
Key Takeaways at a Glance
What is Naturtint?
Naturtint is an ammonia-free permanent hair colour that uses an oxidative dye system to deliver long-lasting pigment and grey coverage. “Permanent” matters here: Naturtint isn’t a rinse-out stain or semi-permanent tint. It’s designed to create colour molecules inside the hair fibre, which is why results can last until you see regrowth.
In Australia, Naturtint is commonly chosen by people who want:
- Ammonia-free application (less fume-heavy for many users).
- Reliable grey coverage with believable, everyday tones.
- More comfortable scalp feel than stronger-smelling box dyes (individual tolerance varies).
- Consistency at home when moving away from salon colouring.
If you’re buying Naturtint for “less harshness”, the real wins come from controlled chemistry + better aftercare — not from pretending oxidative dye is “chemical-free”.
Editor’s Spotlight: Best Naturtint shades to start with
Naturtint performs best when your shade level matches your base colour and your grey coverage needs. The spotlight picks below are chosen as reliable “entry” shades (dark, mid, and lighter families) for natural-looking colour and consistent at-home results.
NaturTint 5M Light Mahogany Chestnut 155ml
- Warm chestnut brunette with a soft mahogany glow (rich, not too red).
- Great for adding depth and shine while keeping a natural, everyday finish.
- Best results when matched to your base level; strand test if hair is porous or previously coloured.
NaturTint 4G Golden Chestnut 155ml
- Rich chestnut brown with golden warmth for a soft, natural glow.
- Great if you want brunette depth without going flat or overly dark.
- Works best when matched to a medium/dark base; strand test if hair is porous or previously coloured.
NaturTint 7G Golden Blonde 155ml
- Warm golden blonde for a sunlit, “healthy blonde” finish (not icy/ash).
- Ideal for brightening and blending when your base is already light-medium blonde.
- Keep it glossy by minimising hot washes/heat styling and using colour-safe care.
Why Naturtint is ammonia-free: MEA explained (without the fluff)
What MEA does in hair dye
Permanent hair colour needs an alkaline environment so the cuticle can swell slightly and the oxidative reaction can occur inside the hair fibre. Traditional dyes often use ammonia for this job. Naturtint uses MEA (monoethanolamine / ethanolamine) instead.
Formulation insight: why MEA can feel different
Formulation insight: MEA is roughly three times larger than ammonia, so it tends to diffuse more slowly and volatilise less. Practically, that often means a less fume-heavy experience during application. When MEA-based systems are paired with lipid and protein replenishment, they can narrow the “damage gap” between colouring and non-colouring routines by supporting cuticle slip and reducing that rough, squeaky feel some people get after oxidative dye.
Important: “Ammonia-free” doesn’t mean irritation-free. Oxidative dyes can still trigger reactions in sensitised individuals. Patch testing is essential.
How to choose the right Naturtint shade for grey coverage
Pick the right level first (then tone)
Most at-home colour mistakes come from choosing the wrong level (lightness/darkness). If you go too light, greys can look translucent or warm. If you go too dark, results can look flat — especially on porous ends. A level match to your base colour is usually the most natural result.
High grey percentage: neutral shades usually behave best
For higher grey coverage needs, neutral/natural families typically give the most believable coverage. If resistant greys show around the temples or hairline, apply to those areas first and follow full development time exactly.
Practical tip: If you’re transitioning from salon colour, start closer to your current level and adjust slowly. Big jumps create most of the “why does this look weird?” outcomes.
How to get better Naturtint results at home
1) Remove build-up (but don’t fry your hair first)
Heavy product build-up (silicones, oils, dry shampoo) can cause uneven uptake. A normal wash the day before is often enough. If you clarify, do it earlier so hair isn’t overly dry on colouring day.
2) Timing is the “hidden ingredient”
Cutting time short usually reduces grey coverage and depth. Leaving it too long can deepen tone and increase dryness. Use a timer and follow the instructions exactly — especially on your first application.
3) Colour roots regularly, refresh lengths occasionally
Long-term, most people get better hair feel by doing regrowth consistently and refreshing mid-lengths/ends less often (for example, every third application). Ends tend to be more porous and fade-prone, so repeated full-length dye can make them look dull or dry.
Best practice: Strand test before changing shade level, switching brands, or colouring hair that has been bleached, permed or chemically straightened.
Naturtint FAQ (Australia)
Is Naturtint ammonia free?
Yes. Naturtint is commonly described as ammonia-free and uses MEA (ethanolamine) as the alkaliser in its oxidative colour system. It still uses permanent colour chemistry, so patch testing remains important.
Does Naturtint cover grey hair?
Many people use Naturtint for grey coverage. Results are best when you choose the correct shade level, apply to clean hair, and follow full development time. For high grey %, neutral/natural shades often give the most believable coverage.
Is Naturtint better than box dye?
“Better” depends on your goals. Naturtint appeals to people who want ammonia-free application and more predictable tone than generic dyes. Like any permanent dye, results still depend on shade choice, hair history, and aftercare.
How long does Naturtint last?
Permanent colour generally lasts until it grows out, with regrowth often visible around 4–8 weeks. Fade on lengths depends on washing frequency, sun exposure, heat styling, and whether you use gentle, pH-balanced aftercare.
Can Naturtint lighten hair?
Permanent colour can sometimes lift slightly depending on your natural base and previous colour history, but major lightening is less predictable and may require a dedicated lightener. Always strand test first, especially on previously coloured hair.
Is Naturtint safe for sensitive scalps?
Many people tolerate ammonia-free systems better, but sensitivity varies. If you’ve reacted to hair dye before, patch test and consider medical guidance. Oxidative dyes can still trigger reactions in sensitised individuals.
Can I use Naturtint during pregnancy?
Personal circumstances vary. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss timing and product choice with your healthcare provider. Patch test before use and avoid colouring if your scalp barrier is inflamed or broken.
Why does my Naturtint colour fade quickly?
Fast fade is often linked to porous hair, frequent washing, hot water, heat styling, or not using gentle aftercare. Many people improve longevity by refreshing roots regularly and refreshing lengths less often to reduce cumulative stress on ends.
How do I choose the right Naturtint shade?
Choose level first (how light/dark), then tone. If you’re unsure, start closer to your natural/base level and adjust gradually. For higher grey coverage needs, neutral/natural tones are often the most reliable.
Explore more hair colour options → Plant-Based Hair Dyes & Natural Colour Treatments
About this article
- Opinion on reaction products of oxidative hair dye ingredients formed during hair-dyeing processes — Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) (Sep 2010)
- Aqueous MEA and Ammonia Sorption-Induced Damage in Keratin Fibers — American Chemical Society (ACS) Omega Journal (Jan 2018)
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Notes:Article published