Dyeing your hair is one of those sensitive topics that leaves many women hesitant when it comes to natural options. Will it be effective?
If you've been transforming your hair with a natural routine, dyeing it with a chemical dye will undo all the progress you've made. So, our advice is to try henna!
If you have any doubts or concerns about the process, don't worry! This is the ultimate guide to learning everything about henna, the natural hair dye that not only colors your hair, but also strengthens and stimulates growth, without releasing any 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 ground into a fine powder which, when mixed with a liquid (water or tea), can be used as a completely natural dye.
Benefits of henna
Besides its ability to naturally dye hair, henna has several benefits for our hair. It stimulates growth and natural shine, unlike conventional dyes, which leave 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 with allergies to chemical dyes. It 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 that damage hair. Remember that everything you put on your hair is quickly absorbed by the hair follicles, rapidly entering our bloodstream, so it's important to choose natural ingredients.
How to use henna?
Opt to apply henna to dry hair, on a day when you haven't washed it – ideally, the last wash should have been 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.
- A few extra hands to help (not mandatory, but it makes things easier!)
1. Choose the color you prefer - Dark , Brown , Copper , or Blonde . You can also mix different henna shades to achieve the tone you're looking for!
- Mix the 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're looking for a lighter shade, use chamomile tea.
The mixture should have a consistency like mud or yogurt – you don't want it too runny, so it doesn't drip, nor too thick, so you can apply it easily. You can always adjust the consistency, adding more liquid or more henna.
Tip: Mix the ingredients about two hours beforehand so the color can develop gradually before you apply it.
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Separate your hair into different sections, brushing each one with the mixture you prepared, from roots to ends. Having someone help you here, especially if you have long hair, is great because it will ensure you cover all the strands well!
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Secure your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap, then place a towel on top. 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, near your hairline, with a little Super Hair Serum so that the pigment doesn't stain your skin. Keep a paper towel or cloth nearby to wipe away any spills during the process.
- After this time has passed, wash your hair thoroughly and comb it. It's normal for some henna residue to remain in your hair – don't worry. It should come out in the next two or three washes.
Because it's a natural pigment, you may have to try a few times to find the color that "takes" best in your hair. But don't give up! Your hair will get used to it. You'll see that after feeling your hair shinier, fuller, and healthier, the whole process will be worth it!