Frequently Asked Questions
Top Questions
What color should I choose?
Look through our color models and choose the color that most closely matches your natural color (click on the ? above the color selector for more info). With other brands, many customers go a shade lighter. With our more natural look, you’re safe going with your color. Keep in mind that the longer you leave it in, the darker result you’ll get -- there’s more on that in the instruction manual. If you're switching from the drugstore brand dye, here's a chart showing how to match their products to Simpler Hair Color.
Do you offer samples?
We cannot provide samples because of our unique packaging. Everything you need to use the product comes in the color box. We understand the concern about buying from a brand you don't know, but with our 100% money-back guarantee on every page of our website, there's no risk to you. We got you covered.
How many uses will I get from 1 can?
Each can dispenses enough product (i.e. dye & developer) to fill around 20 comb-brushes. The average user should get at least 4-5 uses, and likely more, depending on the amount of hair, beard, or grays.
Can I use this for my beard, hair, and touch-ups?
Yes! SIMPLER Hair Color works for your hair, beard, and touch-ups.
How long does it last?
SIMPLER Hair Color is a permanent dye. That means it should stay on your hair or beard permanently, or until you have new white/gray growth. Most guys will want to reapply every haircut or beard trim.
I have had allergic reactions to other dyes. Can I use this?
If you can, check the ingredients in the hair dye that caused your allergic reaction. It is likely that the product you used contained “Para Phenylenediamine,” or PPD for short. PPD is a relatively cheap and strong dye, so it is the most widely used dyeing agent on the market. However, it is also known to cause irritation and allergic reactions in some users; one study reported that it is the commonest cause of hair dye contact dermatitis.(1) Instead of PPD, we formulate our product with the dyeing agent Toluene-2-5-Diamine Sulfate, or “TDS”, which is far more expensive for us to source, but we chose it because in a study, Dr. Andrew Scheman and colleagues concluded that more than half of patients allergic to PPD will tolerate hair dyes using TDS instead.(2)
But some people can still have a reaction to TDS, so always read and follow the Instructions before using SIMPLER Hair Color, including doing a skin sensitivity test before you use the product. If you are concerned about a possible reaction, you may wish to consult with your doctor or dermatologist.
(1) Krishna Sumanth Mukkanna, Natalie M. Stone, John R. Ingram: Paraphenylenediamine allergy: current perspectives on diagnosis and management, Journal of Asthma and Allergy 2017:10 9-15
(2) A. Scheman, et al.: Alternative hair-dye products for persons allergic to paraphenylenediamine, Dermatitis. 2011 Jul-Aug.; 22(4):189-192 (reporting that about 57% of patients allergic to PPD will tolerate newer hair coloring products using TDS and concluding that TDS-based products “represent the first cosmetically elegant alternative hair-dye products for individuals allergic to PPD”).
Full Coverage Product
How do you use it?
Take a look at our Instruction Manual. If you prefer watching a video, check out our How it works page. We’ve also been fortunate enough to have many videos posted on how to use Simpler Hair Color on Youtube. Simply search "Simpler Hair Color" and you will find them.
How is it gentler on my skin?
Most hair dyes contain “Para Phenylenediamine,” or PPD for short. PPD is a relatively cheap and strong dye, so it is the most widely used dyeing agent on the market. However, it is also known to cause irritation and allergic reactions in some users; one study reported that it is the commonest cause of hair dye contact dermatitis.(1) Instead of PPD, we formulate our product with the dyeing agent Toluene-2-5-Diamine Sulfate, or “TDS.”, which is far more expensive for us to source, but we chose it because in a study, Dr. Andrew Scheman and colleagues concluded that more than half of patients allergic to PPD will tolerate hair dyes using TDS instead.(2)
But some people can still have a reaction to TDS, so always read and follow the Instructions before using SIMPLER Hair Color, including doing a skin sensitivity test before you use the product. If you are concerned about a possible reaction, you may wish to consult with your doctor or dermatologist.
(1) Krishna Sumanth Mukkanna, Natalie M. Stone, John R. Ingram: Paraphenylenediamine allergy: current perspectives on diagnosis and management, Journal of Asthma and Allergy 2017:10 9-15
(2) A. Scheman, et al.: Alternative hair-dye products for persons allergic to paraphenylenediamine, Dermatitis. 2011 Jul-Aug.; 22(4):189-192 (reporting that about 57% of patients allergic to PPD will tolerate newer hair coloring products using TDS and concluding that TDS-based products “represent the first cosmetically elegant alternative hair-dye products for individuals allergic to PPD”).
How can I match the drugstore brand dye that I previously used?
Our hypoallergenic 100% vegan formula uses TDS, which is safer and gentler than PPD, which is used in most drug-store brands.(1) TDS is less aggressive than PPD, so the dyeing process takes a little longer. But this extra time allows you to better control the depth of color, and our shades tend to be lighter and more natural looking.
Here's a chart showing how to match their products to Simpler Hair Color.
Can women use this too?
Absolutely! We created SHC specifically for men, but we realize many women have gray hair too!
Will you offer more color shades?
If you'd like us to develop a particular shade please let us know. Also, bear in mind that you can achieve a variety of gradients from our existing shades as shown in our color charts starting on page 9 of the instructions.
Will the results be natural-looking?
Yes. Our hair color is formulated in the USA using premium ingredients that result in a natural look, guaranteed. Be sure to choose a shade close to your natural color and follow our usage instructions.
How long should I leave in the dye?
Take a look at our charts starting on page 9 in our Instruction Manual to see the amount of time you should leave it in to get your shade.
Where can I see the ingredients list?
You can learn more about our ingredients on our Ingredients page, where you'll find a list of ingredients for each shade.
Partial Coverage Product
How do you use it?
Take a look at our Instruction Manual. If you prefer watching a video, you can find one here.
How is it gentler on my skin?
Most hair dyes contain “Para Phenylenediamine,” or PPD for short. PPD is a relatively cheap and strong dye, so it is the most widely used dyeing agent on the market. However, it is also known to cause irritation and allergic reactions in some users; one study reported that it is the commonest cause of hair dye contact dermatitis.(1) Instead of PPD, we formulate our product with the dyeing agent Toluene-2-5-Diamine Sulfate, or “TDS.”, which is far more expensive for us to source, but we chose it because in a study, Dr. Andrew Scheman and colleagues concluded that more than half of patients allergic to PPD will tolerate hair dyes using TDS instead.(2)
But some people can still have a reaction to TDS, so always read and follow the Instructions before using SIMPLER Hair Color, including doing a skin sensitivity test before you use the product. If you are concerned about a possible reaction, you may wish to consult with your doctor or dermatologist.
Additionally, our partial coverage formula uses a milder developer that's 75% less potent than in our full coverage formula. The leave-in time is also up to 75% shorter, so there's less skin exposure. As a result, this formula is gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.
It’s worth noting that some people can still be allergic, so please perform a skin test and follow our safety instructions.
(1) Krishna Sumanth Mukkanna, Natalie M. Stone, John R. Ingram: Paraphenylenediamine allergy: current perspectives on diagnosis and management, Journal of Asthma and Allergy 2017:10 9-15
(2) A. Scheman, et al.: Alternative hair-dye products for persons allergic to paraphenylenediamine, Dermatitis. 2011 Jul-Aug.; 22(4):189-192 (reporting that about 57% of patients allergic to PPD will tolerate newer hair coloring products using TDS and concluding that TDS-based products “represent the first cosmetically elegant alternative hair-dye products for individuals allergic to PPD”).
Can women use this too?
Absolutely! We created SHC specifically for men, but we realize many women have hair too!
Will the results be natural-looking?
Yes, absolutely! Our partial coverage formula is specifically designed to give you a natural appearance. It works by discreetly covering some of your grays, ensuring a seamless and subtle blend.
How long should I leave in the partial coverage dye?
Our partial coverage formula requires a much shorter-leave in time of 5-10 minutes, depending on the amount of coverage that you want. Take a look at our charts on pages 8 & 9 in our Instruction Manual for details.
Where can I see the ingredients list?
You can learn more about our ingredients on our Ingredients page, where you'll find a list of ingredients for each shade.
What color should I choose?
Our Partial Coverage Product comes in two shades, with each shade uniquely formulated to cover grays across multiple natural hair colors.
For those with blond to medium brown hair, we recommend choosing our Lighter Shades option, and for those with dark brown to black hair, we recommend choosing our Darker Shades option.
Is your partial coverage dye permanent?
Yes. Some may also classify it as "Demi-Permanent" because it uses a lower volume developer compared to our original, full coverage formula. As such, you might find that it fades after around 20 washes. If you have short hair or beard, you can likely wait to reapply until it grows out. If you have longer hair or beard, you'll probably want to reapply every 2-3 weeks.
Can I use your partial coverage product if I've experienced sensitivity to your full coverage dye in the past?
Perhaps, though there may be a risk of a reaction. If you've had sensitivity to our full coverage dye in the past, and that sensitivity was not severe, you may find our partial coverage product to be a more suitable option. Our partial coverage formula contains the same ingredients as our full-coverage product, though the developer is milder, being 75% less potent, and it is intended to be left on for up to 75% less time. Thus, there is less skin exposure, and it was our intent that the partial coverage formula would be gentler than our full coverage product.
However, if you had a reaction to our full-coverage product, then you may have a reaction to our partial-coverage product. It is important to always read and follow the Instructions before using SIMPLER Hair Color, including doing a skin sensitivity test before you use the product. If you are concerned about a possible reaction, you may wish to consult with your doctor or dermatologist.
SIMPLER | TOUCH Instant Hair, Beard & Brow Color
How is this different from your other products?
Unlike our Full and Partial Coverage Color Boxes, SIMPLER | TOUCH is temporary, and 100% dye-free. It simply brushes in and then washes out at the end of the day. This is a great option for anyone who doesn’t want to commit to a permanent color, or if you have had a reaction to permanent dyes. It can also be used with our Full or Partial Coverage products to touch up root growth and extend the time between colorings.
I have sensitive skin. Can I use this?
Our formula is 100% dye-free, so you should be able to use SIMPLER | TOUCH. However, everyone's body is different, and people can be allergic to almost anything, including natural ingredients, e.g., coconuts, avocados, aloe, etc. If you experience any irritation after applying the product, wash it off immediately and stop using it.
How many uses will I get?
The number of uses depends on the amount of gray you want to cover, and the length of your hair. On average, you should be able to get up to 40 uses from one bottle. This will be less if you have a lot of grays and/or longer hair and more if you have fewer grays and/or very short hair.
Will it smudge or transfer to my clothes?
Once it is dry, our formula is smudge and transfer-resistant, so it should stay in place. However, some may wipe off or transfer with aggressive rubbing, or sweating.
Can I use it on my eyebrows?
Yes! Our formula is dye-free and safe to use on your eyebrows. Just be careful while you are applying it so it doesn’t get in your eyes.
Can I use it on my eyelashes?
While it may look like it, SIMPLER | TOUCH is not mascara. Please do not use it on your eyelashes.
How long does it take to dry?
We recommend waiting 5 minutes for the product to dry.
Color Extending Shampoo & Conditioner
Why do I need a Color Extending Shampoo?
Most shampoos are not designed with colored hair in mind. They often use harsher cleaning ingredients like sulfates and others that are cheap and effective, but can strip your hair color. SIMPLER Color Extending Shampoo uses none of these ingredients, and is formulated with abundant amounts of natural oils and other protective ingredients. It's the only men's shampoo designed to keep your color looking vibrant and healthy longer.
Why do I need a Color Extending Conditioner?
Applying permanent color leaves your hair more sensitive to outside factors. SIMPLER Color Extending Conditioner contains abundant amounts of natural oils like Jojoba, Coconut, Almond, Macadamia Nut and more, that nurture your hair and create a protective barrier against fading. And, of course, you won't find any ingredients often found in other conditioners that can break down the outer layer of your hair. All keeping your hair healthy, and the color locked in longer.
How much longer will my color last?
Up to 40% longer. According to a study conducted by the School Of Cosmetic Science, on average shampoos without sulfates caused 40% less fading than shampoos with sulfates after 10 washes. These effects become further enhanced through the use of a conditioner. Please keep in mind that individual results can vary greatly due to variations in heat exposure, abrasion, sunlight, water, and other factors.
Why shouldn't I use a 2-in-1?
Shampoos and conditioners have different and opposing purposes. Shampoos cleanse your hair by removing dirt and oil. On the other hand, conditioners strengthen and protect your hair by depositing healthy oils and moisturizers. Combining the 2 results in both purposes opposing one another and neither doing their best job. To get the best results, you need a separate Shampoo and Conditioner.
Will your Shampoo dye my hair?
No. SIMPLER Color Extending Shampoo contains no dye. They are specially formulated to preserve and extend color, for color-treated hair and beards. But they also work great and are recommended for non-color treated hair and beards.
Will your Conditioner dye my hair?
No. SIMPLER Color Extending Conditioner contains no dye. It is specially formulated to preserve and extend the life of your color on your hair and beard. But it also works great and is recommended for non-color treated hair and beards.
Will these products dye my hair?
No. SIMPLER Color Extending Shampoo and Conditioner contain no dye. They are specially formulated to preserve and extend the life of your color on your hair and beard. But they also work great and are recommended for non-color treated hair and beards.
Can I use this if my hair isn't dyed?
Even when your hair isn't dyed, our color-extending shampoo and conditioner are much healthier than regular products, because they won't do anything to harm or dry out your hair. In addition, our color-extending shampoo and conditioner include unique natural oils, in large amounts, to protect and strengthen your hair. There's no downside to making our color extending shampoo and conditioner your regular go-to.
Do I need a separate Beard Wash?
You don't. SIMPLER Color Extending Shampoo and Conditioner are designed to care for both your beard and your hair. Beard hair tends to be coarser, and therefore can need more care and attention. That's why our products contain abundant amounts of unique natural oils and other ingredients to meet the needs of beards, and of course to take great care of the hair on your head as well.
Will this work for all hair types? e.g. Short, long, curly, straight, thick, thin hair
Yes. We designed our formula with gentler ingredients and abundant amounts of unique natural oils to work for all hair types.
I thought this was a permanent dye. So why would it fade?
If you experience fading when using a permanent dye, it's most likely due to the following external factors:
- Abrasion
- Excess heat, and
- Using harsh shampoos, conditioners, and 2-in-1s.
Shipping & Returns
What’s your return policy?
Try us risk free for 60 days. If you’re not happy, simply contact us. If we can’t make it right, you keep the full box and we'll refund you 100%. We believe in treating customers the way we want to be treated. It's that simple.
Do you ship outside the US?
Yes, we ship to Canada, the United Kingdom, the UAE, and Germany. Please bear in mind that we charge an added fee to cover the mandatory paperwork and special labeling that we are required by the US Department of Transportation to complete for air and international shipments.
How long does shipping take?
For orders within the 48 mainland US states, we use Ground Shipping which typically takes 6-8 business days to arrive from being shipped.
For orders being shipped to Alaska, Hawaii, APOs, and other US territories, we use USPS First Class, which typically takes 5 business days to arrive from being shipped.
For orders to Canada, and the UK, these orders have a delivery timeframe between 8 to 10 business days from the date of shipment.
For EU and UAE, the delivery timeframe is 8 to 12 business days.
You'll receive an email or text with tracking information once your order is shipped.
Is shipping free?
Yes, shipping is free on every order shipped to the 48 mainland US states.
We can also ship to Canada, the United Kingdom, the UAE, Germany, as well as Alaska, Hawaii, APOs, and other U.S. territories. Please bear in mind that we charge an added fee to cover the mandatory paperwork and special labeling that we are required by the US Department of Transportation to complete for air and international shipments.
Can I pay extra to expedite shipping?
Yes, we do offer expedited shipping for orders within the 48 mainland US states. You can add it to your order during checkout. When you place an order with expedited shipping before 12:30pm on weekdays, it will be fulfilled and shipped out via USPS Ground Advantage mail on the same day and you will see shorter shipping times of 4-5 business days instead of 6-8 business days.
Membership Subscription Plan
Can I cancel or adjust my membership plan anytime?
Yes! You can cancel or adjust your membership anytime through your membership dashboard or you can contact us and we'll do it for you. You’ll find the link to manage your membership in an email from us with the subject line: “Welcome to our Membership Plan.
I have a membership, but it says I don’t have an account. How can I log in?
When you sign up for a membership, we don't require you to set up a password. Here’s how to set up a password account associated with your membership: From the Login page, click the link to “Create account.” Create an account using the same email address you used when you set up the membership. Then, once you’ve logged in, you’ll see the “Manage Subscriptions” link on the right side of the page.
When will I know the next shipment is arriving?
If you’ve signed up for our Membership savings plan, depending on the frequency you chose, we will send you a reminder for an upcoming shipment a few days before we ship it.
How often should I get a color box?
This depends on the amount of hair, beard, or grays you have and how often you plan to color, but here are some general recommendations.
If you have lots of hair, beard, grays or expect to color more than once per month, we recommend every 1 or 2 months.
If you have an average amount of hair, beard, grays or expect to color about 1x/month, we recommend every 3 or 4 months.
If you have little hair, beard, grays or expect to color every few months, we recommend every 5 or 6 months
