The present invention relates to novel cationic dyes of formula (1), (2) or (3) ##STR00001## whereinR.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently of the other a C.sub.1 C.sub.8alkyl radical or an unsubstituted or substituted benzyl radical, R.sub.3 is hydrogen, C.sub.1 C.sub.8alkyl, C.sub.1 C.sub.8alkoxy, cyanide or halide, and R.sub.4 is a C.sub.1 C.sub.8alkyl radical or an unsubstituted or substituted aryl radical, and X.sup.- is an anion. Further, the present invention relates to compositions thereof, especially comprising other dyes, to processes for the preparation thereof and to the use thereof in the dyeing of organic material, such as keratin fibers, especially hair; or wool, leather, silk, cellulose or polyamides, and preferably human hair.