1 / 5Clairol Natural Instincts 5 Medium Brown Semi-Permanent Hair Dye
Clairol Natural Instincts 5 Medium Brown is a semi-permanent hair colour for a temporary shade refresh without ammonia. The listing claims colour lasts up to 28 washes, while the product guidance says it can blend greys but will not give complete grey coverage or lighten hair.
At a glance
- The listing describes an ammonia-free, semi-permanent formula intended to fade gradually, with colour claimed to last up to 28 washes.
- The brand claims 80% naturally derived ingredients and describes coconut oil and aloe vera in the formula.
- Shade 5 is described as a neutral medium brown. The product guidance says semi-permanent colour cannot lighten hair.
- The listing says it can blend or cover first greys, but also states that it does not cover grey hair 100%.
Reference price: £6.99
Price checked: 12 Nov 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- A semi-permanent option for adding tone and shine without committing to permanent colour.
- The kit directions specify a 20-minute colour process and include a conditioner step.
- Customer feedback highlights ease of use and hair feeling soft or gentle after use.
Cons
- Not suitable for lightening hair, and the brand says it does not provide complete grey coverage.
Technical specifications
13 specifications| Brand | Clairol |
|---|---|
| Model | 99240014381 |
| Shade | 5 Medium Brown |
| Product type | Semi-Permanent Hair Dye |
| Item form | Box |
| Hair type | normal |
| Material features | Natural, Vegan |
| Ammonia-free | Ammonia Free |
| Naturally derived ingredients | 80 Percent |
| Country of origin | Germany |
| Processing time | 20 Minutes |
|---|---|
| Claimed longevity | Semi-permanent formula, Lasts 28 washes |
| Dimensions listed | 6 x 9 x 16 cm; 240 g |
What to know before buying
Listing details to confirm
The listing calls the product semi-permanent in its title and several details, but an FAQ also calls it demi-permanent. Grey coverage is described inconsistently as optimal for first greys and as not covering grey 100%. Treat the shade, fade time and coverage as claims rather than guaranteed results. The listed maximum is 28 washes, while individual feedback on how long colour lasts is mixed.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- People wanting a temporary medium-brown refresh rather than permanent colour.
- First-time colour users or buyers looking to experiment with a shade, provided they do not need full grey coverage.
Less suited to
- Anyone who needs to lighten their current hair colour or fully cover grey hair.
- Anyone seeking a permanent colour result.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
69% 69% - 4 stars
13% 13% - 3 stars
8% 8% - 2 stars
3% 3% - 1 star
7% 7%
Customer feedback highlights ease of use and hair feeling soft or gentle, while opinions are mixed on shade, effectiveness, grey coverage, longevity and value. Some customers say the brown looks very dark, and reports differ on how well the colour washes out and covers grey. This matters if you need a precise shade or dependable grey coverage. The listing itself says the colour is temporary and does not cover grey completely.
Positive themes
- Customers report that the dye is easy to use and leaves hair feeling soft or gentle.
- Some customers respond positively to the shade and end result.
Negative themes
- Some customers say the colour looks very dark.
- Some customers report that it does not wash out well or does not cover grey areas effectively.
Mixed feedback
- Feedback on longevity, effectiveness, grey coverage and value varies.
Frequently asked questions
Does this dye fully cover grey hair?
No. The listing says it can blend or cover first greys, but also states that it does not cover grey hair 100%. Choose another option if complete coverage is essential.
Can this shade make hair lighter?
No. The provided guidance says semi-permanent colour can add tone or go darker, but cannot lighten or lift existing colour.
How long does the colour last?
The listing claims up to 28 washes and says the colour fades gradually. Customer feedback on longevity is mixed, so the result may vary.
How long should the colour be left on?
The directions specify 20 minutes. The listing also recommends a strand test because hair type can affect timing.
What safety steps are given?
The listing says to complete an allergy alert test 48 hours before each use, follow the instructions and not use the product on anyone under 16. It also lists conditions in which hair should not be coloured.
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Offer details
- Complete an allergy alert test 48 hours before each use, even if you have used hair colour before. Follow the instructions. The listing says not to use on anyone under 16 and identifies scalp irritation, previous reactions and certain temporary black henna reactions as reasons not to colour.