One n Only Argan Oil hair color is a permanent color cream infused with argan oil, sold in 3 oz tubes at beauty supply stores like Sally Beauty. It is popular with home colorists and stylists because it offers salon-style shade codes, strong gray coverage and a softer, shinier finish than many box dyes. This review covers what it is, its shade range, how to mix and apply it, gray coverage tips, pros and cons, and who it suits.
Table of Contents
Quick Summary / At A Glance
- One ‘n Only Argan Oil Permanent Color Cream is a professional-style permanent dye with argan oil and micro-pigments.
- The range has 40-plus shades, from 1N Very Black to 11HLA Hi Lift Cool Blonde.
- It is sold by the tube (about 3 oz), so you buy developer separately and mix 1 part color to 2 parts developer.
- Use 10 volume to deposit, 20 for about 2 levels of lift, 30 for 3 and 40 for 4.
- It is still permanent dye: patch test every time and follow aftercare to avoid dryness.
What Is One n Only Argan Oil Hair Color?
One ‘n Only describes its Argan Oil Permanent Color Cream as a hair color breakthrough that combines advanced micro-pigments with argan oil for rich, true tones, gray coverage and shine. Shades cost about the same as box dye at retailers such as Sally Beauty, where the product page lists the developer options for each level of lift.
Argan oil, pressed from Moroccan argan kernels, is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E. In a hair dye it mainly helps hair feel softer and look glossier after coloring. It does not stop permanent dye from opening the cuticle, so good aftercare still matters.
One n Only Argan Oil Shade Range
Shades are coded by level (number) and tone (letters). Examples include 1N Very Black, 2N Black, 3NN Rich Natural Dark Brown, 5CH Light Chocolate Brown, 6S Dark Sand Blonde, 7NN Rich Natural Medium Blonde, 8RG (a red-gold blonde) and 11HLA Hi Lift Cool Blonde. For a full explanation of levels and tone letters, see our argan oil hair color chart.
| Shade family | Examples | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Blacks and dark browns | 1N, 2N, 3NN | Deep natural color, gray coverage |
| Browns | 5NN, 5CH | Rich browns, chocolate tones |
| Dark to medium blondes | 6S, 7NN, 7G | Natural blondes; see our level 6 guide |
| Reds | 5RG, 8RG | Warm red and copper looks |
| Hi-lift blondes | 11HLA | Lifting light-brown hair to cool blonde |
If a mid-level shade confuses you, our guide to level 6 hair color explains dark blonde vs light brown.
How to Use One n Only Argan Oil Hair Color
- Patch test 48 hours before. The U.S. FDA recommends this every time you dye your hair.
- Choose your developer: 10 volume to deposit or go darker, 20 volume for about 2 levels of lift and standard gray coverage, 30 volume for 3 levels and 40 volume for 4 levels.
- Mix 1 part color with 2 parts developer in a non-metal bowl or applicator bottle.
- Section dry hair into four parts and apply to roots first for gray or virgin regrowth, then to lengths as needed.
- Process for the full time on the instructions, then rinse until clear and condition.
The American Academy of Dermatology advises choosing a dye within three shades of your natural color, because lifting further needs stronger peroxide and causes more damage. Use 30 and 40 volume developer with caution, and never on an irritated scalp.
Gray Coverage With One n Only
- Choose N or NN (natural or rich natural) shades for the most even coverage.
- Use 20 volume developer, the standard for gray coverage.
- Start on resistant gray areas such as the temples and part.
- When using a fashion tone (red, ash, copper), mix in an N shade of the same level for better coverage.
- Touch up regrowth every 4 to 8 weeks.
One n Only Argan Oil Hair Color Review: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Wide range of 40+ shades with clear level and tone codes.
- Strong, rich gray coverage in natural shades.
- Argan oil helps leave hair soft and shiny.
- Affordable per tube compared with salon color.
Cons
- Not an all-in-one kit; developer and tools are sold separately.
- You need to understand levels and developer volumes.
- As with any permanent dye, it can dry or damage hair if overused.
- Lifting dark hair can expose warm, brassy tones.
One n Only vs Other Hair Color Options
| Option | Type | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| One n Only Argan Oil | Permanent tube color + developer | Custom shades, gray coverage |
| Box dye kits | Permanent, all-in-one | Convenience and beginners |
| Ion demi-permanent | Deposit-only | Gloss, toning, blending gray |
| Semi-permanent fashion dyes | Direct dye | Bright, temporary colors |
Compare it with the gentler Ion demi-permanent line, or browse our picks for the best hair dyes for home use. For a deep, natural black, see soft black hair color.
Aftercare Tips
- Wait 48 hours before your first shampoo.
- Use sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and cool water.
- Add a few drops of argan oil to damp ends for extra shine.
- Deep condition weekly, especially after lifting.
- Use heat protectant and limit hot tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is One n Only Argan Oil hair color permanent?
Yes. The Argan Oil Permanent Color Cream lasts until hair grows out, though tone can fade slightly over time.
What developer should I use with One n Only?
Mix 1 part color with 2 parts creme developer: 10 volume to deposit, 20 for about 2 levels of lift, 30 for 3 and 40 for 4.
Does One n Only cover gray hair?
Yes. Its N and NN shades are designed for rich gray coverage, especially with 20 volume developer.
Can One n Only make my hair curly?
No. Hair dye does not change curl pattern. Argan oil can make existing curls feel softer and look shinier.
Is there a demi-permanent One n Only line?
Yes. One ‘n Only also sells an Argan Oil Demi-Permanent Color for deposit-only toning and blending.
Conclusion
One n Only Argan Oil hair color is a strong, affordable choice if you want salon-style shade control and good gray coverage at home. Pick your shade from the chart, choose the right developer, patch test every time and follow up with gentle, moisturizing care for rich, glossy color.
This article is for general information only. If you have reacted to hair dye before, talk to a dermatologist before coloring.
