Dyeing your hair is one of those sensitive topics that leaves many women unsure when it comes to natural options. Will it be effective?
If you have been transforming your hair with a natural routine, dyeing it with a chemical dye will destroy everything you have achieved. Therefore, our advice is to try henna!
If you have any doubts or concerns about the process, worry not! This is the ultimate guide to knowing everything about henna, the natural coloring that not only colors your hair, but also strengthens it and stimulates growth, without releasing any type of chemicals onto your scalp.
What is henna?
Henna is one of the oldest natural pigments, obtained from the Lawsonia inermis plant. The leaves, after drying, are crushed until a fine powder is obtained which, when mixed with a liquid (water or tea) can be used as a completely natural coloring.
Benefits of henna
In addition to the ability to dye hair naturally, henna has several benefits for our hair. Stimulates hair growth and natural shine, unlike conventional dyes, which make hair more fragile and dull. It is ideal for soothing irritated scalps , thanks to its anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties. It is a great option for those who are allergic to chemical paints. Balances the pH of the scalp and excessive oil production.
Henna does not contain parabens, ammonia, alcohol or synthetic fragrances, chemical ingredients present in conventional dyes and which damage hair. Remember that everything you put in your hair is quickly absorbed by the hair follicles, quickly entering our bloodstream, which is why it is important to choose natural ingredients.
How to use henna?
Choose to apply henna to dry hair, on a day when you haven't washed it - ideally, the last wash was two days ago.
What you will need:
- A bowl for mixing
- A hairdressing brush
- A towel (that you don't mind getting dirty)
- Cling film or a shower cap
- Your favorite henna + a liquid to form the paste
- Some extra hands to help (not mandatory, but it makes it easier!)
1. Choose the color you prefer - Dark , Brown , Copper or Blonde . You can also mix different hennas to achieve the tone you are looking for!
- Mix henna with hot water. The ideal ratio is 3 tablespoons to 3/4 cup of liquid. If you're looking for a dark color, try replacing the water with black tea. If you are looking for a lighter tone, use chamomile infusion.
The mixture needs to have a consistency like mud or yogurt - you don't want it too liquid, so it doesn't run, nor too thick, so it can apply well. You can always adjust the consistency, with more liquid or more henna.
Tip: mix it a couple of hours in advance, so that the color begins to develop until you apply it.
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Separate your hair into different parts, brushing each one with the mixture you prepared, from the roots to the ends. Having someone to help here, especially if you have long hair, is great, because it will ensure that you cover all the strands well!
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Secure your hair with the cap or cling film and then put on the towel. Wait 3 hours if you have dark hair, or between 30 minutes and 1 hour if you have light hair.
Tip : protect the skin on your forehead, close to the hair roots, with a little Super Hair Serum , so that the pigment does not dye the skin. Keep a paper or cloth next to you to clean your skin in case anything drips during the process.
- After this time, wash your hair well and comb it. It's normal for some henna residue to remain in your hair - don't worry. They are supposed to come off in the next two/three washes.
As it is a natural pigment, you may have to make a few attempts until you find the color that “sticks” best to your hair. But don't give up! Your hair gets used to it. You will see that after your hair feels shinier, fuller and healthier, the whole process is worth it!
