Many people look for natural and gentle ways to hide grey hair, and one of the more unusual ideas making rounds online is coffee. The thought of using something from your morning cup to refresh your hair sounds
creative and convenient. But does it actually work, and is it safe for your scalp?
While coffee has been praised in beauty DIY circles, science has a more balanced view. Coffee can give some results when it comes to hair colouring, but it isn’t a miracle solution.
At the same time, research shows caffeine may have certain benefits for scalp and hair health when used the right way.
Coffee can give grey hair a temporary tint, but not a permanent fix
Rinsing your hair with strong brewed coffee or mixing it with conditioner can leave behind a soft brown stain. The natural pigments in coffee cling to hair strands, making grey hairs look a little less visible. However, the effect is temporary, usually lasting only until the next few washes. Unlike store-bought hair dyes, coffee doesn’t penetrate deeply into the hair shaft, so don’t expect long-lasting coverage.
There is also no solid evidence from scientific studies to suggest coffee is a reliable or safe alternative to standard hair dyes. While it may work for a short time, it is more of a quick fix than a permanent solution.
Caffeine may support scalp health and encourage hair growth
The good news is that coffee and, more specifically, caffeine, do have some research-backed benefits for the scalp. Lab studies have shown caffeine can stimulate hair follicles, potentially extending their growth phase. It may also help block the hormone DHT, which plays a role in hair thinning and loss, especially in people with genetic predispositions.
Additionally, some clinical studies have found that caffeine-based products can improve blood circulation in the scalp, leading to healthier and stronger hair growth. However, it is important to note that these studies used concentrated caffeine extracts, not brewed coffee rinses. That means simply pouring coffee on your scalp is unlikely to deliver the same effects.
Coffee is generally safe, but overuse can cause dryness
Unlike chemical dyes, coffee is usually gentle on the scalp and less likely to cause allergic reactions. Still, frequent rinsing can make hair feel dry or brittle over time. Since the colon doesn’t last long, regular reapplication is needed, which may increase the risk of dryness and product build-up.
Allergic reactions to coffee rinses are uncommon, but patch testing is always wise before trying any DIY treatment. Regulatory bodies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classify coffee as a food rather than a cosmetic product, meaning there are no official endorsements for using it as a hair dye. Experts advise caution with homemade treatments and recommend monitoring your scalp for irritation or changes.
