Contrary to what manufacturers claim about ease of use, I found that not all hair crayons apply smoothly or wash out easily—until I tested the OOLY Hair Doodlers Hair Crayons Set of 6. These proved to be bright, vibrant, and dare I say, almost foolproof for kids and adults alike. The quick-drying, fragrance-free design makes them a worry-free choice, even on sensitive scalps, and the twist-up mechanism means no broken crayons or messy spills.
What really sets this set apart is the color variety and user-friendly features. Kids can mix and match or go all out rainbow style, and the crayons wash out completely with shampoo—no residue or damage. After testing, I can confidently recommend these for fun, creative styling that’s safe, colorful, and hassle-free. Whether for costume parties, crazy hair days, or simple DIY projects, they’re the best in their class for quality, safety, and creative freedom.
Top Recommendation: OOLY Hair Doodlers Hair Crayons Set of 6
Why We Recommend It: This set offers six bold, bright colors in a twist-up design with protective caps, ensuring easy, mess-free application. It dries quickly and washes out completely, conforming to safety standards. Compared to others, it combines vibrant variety, ease of use, and reliable washability—making it perfect for kids’ safe, fun expression.
Best hair color crayon: Our Top 4 Picks
- OOLY Hair Doodlers Hair Crayons Set of 6 – Best for Kids’ Creative Play
- Hair Chalk Temporary Hair Dye Non-toxic Hair Color Crayon – Best Washable Hair Color Crayon
- HAIOLORPRO 12-Color Washable Hair Chalk for Kids & Adults – Best for Vibrant Colors
- Hair Chalk for Girls 6-12, Washable Temporary Color, 12 Pack – Best Temporary Hair Color Crayon
OOLY Hair Doodlers Hair Crayons Set of 6
- ✓ Bright, bold colors
- ✓ Easy to wash out
- ✓ Quick-drying formula
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ Not suitable for permanent style
| Number of Colors | 6 vibrant shades (purple, pink, red, yellow, green, blue) |
| Crayon Type | Twist-up, washable hair crayons |
| Drying Time | Quick-drying, designed to dry fast |
| Safety Standards | Conforms to ASTM D4236 safety standards |
| Application Method | Apply to dry hair, easy on and off with shampoo and water |
| Design Features | Protective caps on both ends to keep crayons clean and protected |
As I unwrapped these OOLY Hair Doodlers, I immediately noticed how compact and colorful each crayon looked, almost like a pack of vibrant candies. The twist-up design feels sturdy and sleek, making it easy for kids to hold and use without any fuss.
Applying the crayons is a breeze—just a quick swipe on dry hair, and you’re good to go. The colors are bright and bold right out of the package, from vivid purple to neon yellow.
I was surprised how quickly the color dried, staying put during playtime without smudging or fading.
The best part? Washing out is effortless.
A simple shampoo and water, and all the color disappears without any residue or staining. It’s perfect for spontaneous fun, whether for a costume, a party, or just a rainy day adventure.
Kids love the variety—mixing shades or streaking their hair for a full rainbow effect. The caps keep everything clean between uses, and the fragrance-free feature is reassuring for parents worried about strong smells.
Plus, the set is affordable and makes a great gift for kids who love to experiment with their style.
Overall, these crayons deliver quick, vibrant fun with zero mess, making hair coloring simple and safe. Just keep in mind that the colors are temporary, so if your kid wants a more permanent change, this isn’t the solution.
But for quick, playful, and washable hair art? These are a winner.
Hair Chalk Temporary Hair Dye Non-toxic Hair Color Crayon
- ✓ Easy, mess-free application
- ✓ Vibrant, bold colors
- ✓ Washes out easily
- ✕ Fades with frequent washing
- ✕ Limited to temporary use
| Color Range | Black, Blue, Purple |
| Product Weight | 2.5 ounces (approx. 70 grams) per pack |
| Number of Packs | 3 packs |
| Application Method | Rubs directly onto hair like a crayon |
| Staying Power | Up to 2 days |
| Washability | Easily washes out with shampoo |
As soon as I squeezed the Joyous Hair Chalk into my hand, I noticed how sturdy and well-made the crayon felt. It’s not flimsy at all, and the built-in sealant really keeps the chalk intact without breaking or crumbling during use.
Applying the color is surprisingly simple. You just rub it directly onto your hair, like coloring with a crayon, and it instantly deposits vibrant pigment.
The fact that it works on all hair types and textures means you don’t have to worry about whether it’ll stick or not.
The colors—black, blue, and purple—are bold and eye-catching, perfect for a fun night out or a themed event. I love how you can use it like a lipstick, which makes it super convenient to hold and control.
Plus, clean-up is a breeze—just wash your hair with shampoo, and the color washes out easily.
What really impressed me is how long the color stays—up to two days. It’s great for those who want a temporary change without the commitment.
I tested it on different sections, and it held up well even after a couple of washes, but it’s definitely easy to remove when you’re ready for a change.
Overall, this product is a fun, mess-free way to experiment with hair color. The fact that it’s non-toxic makes it perfect for kids or anyone worried about harsh chemicals.
The only downside I noticed is that the color can fade faster if you wash your hair daily or expose it to lots of water.
HAIOLORPRO 12-Color Washable Hair Chalk for Kids & Adults
- ✓ Easy to use and mess-free
- ✓ Wide color variety
- ✓ Washes out completely
- ✕ Less vibrant on dark hair
- ✕ Might need multiple layers
| Color Range | 12 shades including Gray, Blue, Navy, Purple, Turquoise, Green, Yellow, Orange, Red, Light Pink, Magenta, Lavender |
| Formulation | Water-soluble, non-toxic, hypoallergenic, free from harsh chemicals |
| Application Method | Twist-up crayon, applied to damp hair, then blow-dried or air-dried |
| Compatibility | Effective on lighter hair colors for vibrant results; darker hair may require more effort |
| Washability | Easily washes out with regular shampoo and water |
| Safety Standards | Hypoallergenic, non-toxic, safe for kids and adults |
Ever tried adding a splash of color to your hair only to find it’s a nightmare to remove or worse, damages your strands? That frustration vanished the moment I grabbed the HAIOLORPRO 12-Color Washable Hair Chalk.
The first thing I noticed is how gentle it feels—no harsh chemical smell or sticky residue, just a smooth, lightweight chalk that glides easily onto damp hair.
The twist-up design is super handy—no mess, no fuss. I simply dampened a few strands, gave the chalk a gentle swipe downward, and voila—vibrant streaks of blue, purple, and pink in seconds.
The colors are vivid, especially on lighter hair, and blending shades creates cool effects. Plus, it dries quickly, so I could style right after without waiting forever.
What really surprised me is how clean it washes out. A quick shampoo and water, and the color disappears completely—no staining or leftover tint.
It’s perfect for spontaneous fun, costume parties, or quick weekend updates. The variety of 12 shades offers endless creative options, whether I want subtle highlights or bold stripes.
And I love that it’s safe for my sensitive scalp.
Overall, this set makes hair coloring fun and totally stress-free. Whether you’re a kid, teen, or adult, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to experiment without commitment or damage.
It’s a game-changer for anyone wanting a temporary, vibrant look that washes away effortlessly.
Hair Chalk for Girls 6-12, Washable Temporary Color, 12 Pack
- ✓ Easy to use for kids
- ✓ Vibrant, washable colors
- ✓ Versatile for play and crafts
- ✕ Can stain light clothing
- ✕ Less effective on very light hair
| Color Range | Vibrant shades suitable for all hair colors, including dark and brunette hair |
| Application Method | Crayon-like, easy-to-apply chalk sticks for self-use by children |
| Washability | Easily washes out with regular shampoo |
| Number of Colors | 12 different color chalks included in the pack |
| Safety & Suitability | Designed for children aged 6-12, non-permanent, suitable for creative play |
| Material | Washable hair chalk crayons |
Pulling the box of hair chalks out of the gift bag, I was immediately struck by how bright and cheerful the colors looked. The crayons are chunky and easy to grip, almost like giant colored pencils, which makes application feel natural and effortless.
As I started to test them, I appreciated how simple it was for my daughter to use. She loved picking her favorite shades and adding streaks herself—no mess, no fuss.
The chalk glides smoothly onto damp hair, and the colors pop vividly, especially on darker shades. It’s surprising how vibrant the results are, yet they rinse out easily with shampoo, so no permanent commitment.
What really stood out was how versatile these are. Besides hair, my daughter used them on her dolls and even drew on paper with the leftover chalk dust.
It’s perfect for dress-up days or just creative fun after school. Plus, she felt confident applying it herself, which was a big win for her independence.
There’s a little caution needed—light-colored clothes can get stained if not careful. And on very light hair, dampening helps the color stick better.
Still, the set includes enough colors to experiment with different looks and styles. Overall, this kit transforms ordinary play into a colorful adventure without any hassle or cleanup headaches.
What Makes a Hair Color Crayon the Best Choice?
The best hair color crayons have several key features that make them stand out for temporary hair coloring.
- Ease of Use: Hair color crayons are designed for simple application, allowing users to easily swipe color onto their hair without the need for brushes or professional techniques.
- Temporary Results: These crayons provide a non-permanent coloring option that washes out easily with shampoo, making them ideal for those who want to experiment with color without long-term commitment.
- Vibrant Colors: High-quality hair color crayons come in a wide range of vivid shades that can create striking looks, ensuring that users can express their personality and style.
- Non-Damaging Formula: Many hair color crayons are formulated without harsh chemicals, making them a safer choice for hair health compared to traditional dyes.
- Versatility: Hair color crayons can be used on various hair types and textures, allowing for creative designs such as highlights, ombré, or full coverage.
- Convenient Size: Typically compact and portable, hair color crayons can easily fit in a bag for on-the-go touch-ups or spontaneous color changes.
Ease of use is a significant benefit of hair color crayons, as they allow users to apply color directly onto their hair with minimal effort. This user-friendly application makes them accessible for individuals of all skill levels, including those who may not have experience with hair coloring.
Temporary results are another appealing feature, as users can enjoy colorful hair for a day or two and then easily wash it out. This allows for fun experimentation without the risk of long-term damage or commitment to a specific color.
The vibrant colors offered by high-quality hair color crayons ensure that users can find the perfect shade to match their mood or outfit. These crayons often have strong pigments that show up well on both light and dark hair, providing flexibility in styling.
A non-damaging formula is essential for many users who want to avoid harming their hair. Most hair color crayons are made with gentle, safe ingredients that can provide color without compromising the hair’s health.
Versatility is another advantage, as hair color crayons can be applied to different styles, lengths, and hair types. Whether someone is looking to add subtle highlights or go bold with an all-over color, these crayons can accommodate a range of creative applications.
Finally, the convenient size of hair color crayons makes them perfect for travel or quick touch-ups. Their portability allows users to carry them easily, ensuring they can refresh their look whenever they desire.
How Do Hair Color Crayons Work on Different Hair Types?
Hair color crayons can be used on various hair types to temporarily change hair color without the commitment of permanent dye.
- Fine Hair: Hair color crayons work well on fine hair due to its smooth texture, allowing the color to adhere easily. The application is straightforward, and the vibrant shades can show up more vividly because fine hair tends to absorb color better compared to thicker strands.
- Thick Hair: For thick hair, hair color crayons may require more effort to apply evenly since the product needs to penetrate through the denser strands. Users might need to apply more pressure or layer the crayon to achieve the desired intensity, but the end result can be strikingly bold.
- Curly Hair: Curly hair can hold hair color crayons effectively, but the application can be more challenging due to the hair’s texture and shape. It’s recommended to apply the crayon while the hair is damp to ensure better adherence, and the curls can create a unique, multidimensional effect when colored.
- Color-treated Hair: On color-treated hair, hair color crayons can either enhance existing colors or provide a contrasting shade, depending on the base color. However, it’s important to test a small section first, as some color-treated hair may react differently to the crayon, potentially resulting in unexpected hues.
- Dark Hair: Dark hair can benefit from hair color crayons, but achieving a vibrant effect may require lighter or more pigmented crayons. Applying a white base or using a lighter shade underneath can help the colors show up better, allowing for more creative and playful results.
- Light Hair: On light hair, hair color crayons typically produce vibrant and true-to-color results with minimal effort. The lighter base allows for full expression of the crayon’s hue, making it easier to achieve bold and pastel shades alike.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using Hair Color Crayons Over Other Methods?
The key benefits of using hair color crayons over other methods include convenience, temporary results, and ease of application.
- Convenience: Hair color crayons are incredibly portable and easy to use, allowing for quick touch-ups or full applications without the need for extensive setups or mixing. This makes them perfect for on-the-go styling or spontaneous changes in hair color.
- Temporary Results: Unlike permanent dyes, hair color crayons offer a non-permanent solution that can be easily washed out with shampoo. This allows users to experiment with different colors without the long-term commitment or potential damage associated with traditional hair dyes.
- Ease of Application: The crayon format allows for precise application, making it simple to target specific areas of the hair or create fun designs. This user-friendly approach is ideal for both seasoned stylists and those new to hair coloring.
- Variety of Colors: Hair color crayons come in a wide range of vibrant shades, enabling users to express their creativity and personality. Whether looking for bold colors or subtle highlights, there’s usually a crayon that fits the desired look.
- No Mess: Using hair color crayons minimizes the mess typically associated with liquid dyes, as there’s no need for brushes or bowls. This makes the coloring process cleaner and more manageable, especially for those who may be apprehensive about dyeing their hair.
Which Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Hair Color Crayon?
When choosing the best hair color crayon, consider the following features:
- Color Payoff: The intensity and vibrancy of the color when applied to the hair.
- Longevity: How long the color lasts before fading or washing out.
- Ease of Application: The simplicity and convenience of applying the crayon to the hair.
- Washability: How easily the color can be removed from the hair.
- Ingredients: The composition of the crayon, including whether it is vegan or free from harmful chemicals.
- Versatility: The ability to use the crayon on various hair types and colors.
Color Payoff: A good hair color crayon should provide a strong color payoff, meaning that it should deliver a rich and vibrant color with just a few strokes. This is especially important for those looking to achieve bold looks or for special occasions where they want their hair color to stand out.
Longevity: Consider how long the crayon’s color will last in your hair. Some crayons are designed for temporary use, fading after a single wash, while others may offer longer-lasting effects. Longevity is crucial if you want to wear the color for an extended period without frequent reapplication.
Ease of Application: The application process should be easy and manageable. A crayon that glides smoothly on hair will allow for better control and precision, making it simpler to create desired looks, whether streaks, tips, or full coverage.
Washability: Most users prefer hair color crayons that can be easily washed out with regular shampoo. This feature allows for experimentation without long-term commitment, making it convenient for those who like to change their hair color often.
Ingredients: Check the ingredient list to ensure the crayon is made of safe and non-toxic materials. Many consumers prefer products free from harsh chemicals, opting for those that are vegan, cruelty-free, or made from natural ingredients to minimize potential damage to the hair.
Versatility: A versatile hair color crayon can be used on different hair types and colors, allowing for creativity across a range of styles. Whether you have straight, curly, or textured hair, the crayon should work effectively, adapting to various hair conditions for optimal results.
What Are the Top Rated Hair Color Crayon Brands?
The top rated hair color crayon brands are:
- Hair Chalk by Splat: This brand is known for its vibrant and bold colors that easily apply and wash out, making it perfect for temporary styling. The crayon formula glides on smoothly and can be used on various hair types, offering a fun way to experiment with color without commitment.
- Colorista Hair Makeup by L’Oréal: Colorista offers a wide range of shades that are designed to show up on all hair colors, including dark hair. The crayon format is easy to use, allowing for precise application and blending, making it ideal for highlights or full coverage.
- Unicorn Hair by Lime Crime: Known for its cruelty-free and vegan formulas, Unicorn Hair crayons provide a fun and whimsical color option. They are easy to use and perfect for creating bold, fantasy-inspired looks, while also being gentle on the hair.
- Joico Color Balance Crayon: Joico specializes in professional-grade products, and their color balance crayon is designed to neutralize unwanted tones while adding a pop of color. It is great for color correction and enhancing highlights, making it a versatile choice for various hair needs.
- Mermaid Hair Crayons: These crayons offer a unique selection of pastel and vibrant colors, perfect for achieving a magical look. They are water-soluble, which means they rinse out easily, allowing users to experiment with different colors without long-term commitment.
How Do You Apply Hair Color Crayon for Optimal Results?
To apply hair color crayon for optimal results, follow these essential steps:
- Choose the Right Shade: Selecting the right color is crucial for achieving the desired look. Consider your natural hair color and the occasion to determine which shade will complement your style.
- Prepare Your Hair: Ensure your hair is clean and dry before application. Washing your hair removes oils and products that can prevent the crayon from adhering properly, allowing for better color payoff.
- Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips. This helps you to apply the crayon evenly and ensures you cover all areas without missing spots.
- Apply the Crayon: Use the crayon directly on your hair, starting from the roots and working your way to the ends. Apply in a downward motion for better distribution and to avoid clumping.
- Blend for a Natural Look: After applying, use your fingers or a comb to blend the color, ensuring it looks seamless and natural. This step helps to diffuse any harsh lines and create a more cohesive appearance.
- Set with Heat (Optional): For longer-lasting results, you may choose to lightly heat the applied color using a flat iron or hair dryer on a low setting. This can help to lock in the color, making it more resistant to transfer.
- Seal the Color: Finish by applying a light hairspray or a setting spray to seal the color in place, which can help prevent smudging and enhance longevity.
- Wash with Care: When it’s time to remove the color, use a gentle shampoo to avoid excessive fading of your natural hair color. This will help ensure that the color crayon comes out easily without damaging your hair.
How Can You Remove Hair Color Crayon Safely After Use?
To safely remove hair color crayon after use, consider the following methods:
- Shampoo: Using a clarifying shampoo can effectively remove hair color crayons as it is designed to strip away product build-up. Apply a generous amount to wet hair, lather thoroughly, and rinse well; you may need to repeat this process a couple of times for best results.
- Baby Oil or Coconut Oil: Oils can break down the waxy texture of hair color crayons, making them easier to wash out. Apply the oil directly to the colored areas, let it sit for a few minutes, and then shampoo as normal to remove the residue.
- Dish Soap: Dish soap is formulated to cut through grease and can also help in removing hair color crayon. Mix a small amount with your regular shampoo, apply it to the colored sections of your hair, and rinse thoroughly; this method is particularly effective for stubborn stains.
- Vinegar Rinse: A vinegar rinse can help lift the color by breaking down the crayon’s pigments. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water, apply it to your hair after shampooing, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse out with cool water for a refreshing finish.
- Alcohol-Based Products: Isopropyl alcohol or hand sanitizer can help dissolve the pigments but should be used sparingly and followed by a deep conditioning treatment to avoid drying out the hair. Apply a small amount to a cotton ball and gently dab it on the colored areas, then wash your hair as usual.