Dyeing keratin fibers, preferably human hair, comprises (a) applying an aqueous alkaline composition comprising one or more alkaline agents to the fibers, where the pH of the composition is greater than at least 10, (b) optionally rinsing the fibers, (c) optionally washing the fibers with shampoo and then rinsing, where the treatment is neutralized, (d) optionally drying the fibers, (e) applying a dye composition comprising one or more natural dyes in a medium to the fibers, (f) optionally washing and rinsing the fibers, and (g) drying the fibers.