Owing to stressful lifestyles, genetic or other reasons, many people complain of untimely greying of hair. While there are many products you can try, the bitter reality is that most of these products do nothing more than digging holes in our pockets. Some of these damage our hair tremendously, often taking years to recover. The struggle to find organic and natural hair dyes is real, but with henna, you can rest assured that your hair will return to its original vibrant state. In addition, you will see multiple hair health benefits after using henna rather than any damage (as in the case of many modern-day products).
Henna hair dye is one of the safest products to apply to your hair. Unlike the chemically treated hair colouring products the market is filled with, henna is a naturally made dyeing product. Our ancestors have used henna leaves to nourish and colour hair for generations. Today, we have the luxury of finding the richness of good old henna leaves in the form of packeted henna powder. Here is everything you need to know about the dos and don'ts of using henna for hair.
What is henna?
Derived from the Lawsonia inermis plant, henna is a natural hair dye. Henna leaves are dried and made into the powder form that we commonly find. It is used to darken hair and is known for its antimicrobial and medicinal properties. It is gentle on the skin and helps prevent skin infections. It is also used to paint nails or as mehendi - a natural form of body art done especially in South Asian weddings as a symbol of positivity. If you are looking for the best henna hair dye, here are some details to help you.
Why is henna recommended for grey hair?
Because henna releases a reddish-brown colour when mixed with other or any other liquid, it is used as a natural hair dye to conceal grey hair. Henna for hair is typically made into a paste, applied on the hair, and left to dry for a few hours. Once washed, the henna renders a gorgeous reddish-brown tint to the hair.
Benefits of henna
There are multiple benefits of using henna for hair. Henna hair dye has cooling properties that help calm the redness of the scalp. Its antifungal properties also help get rid of itchiness and dandruff. Black henna hair dye is a wonderful natural hair conditioner. It locks the moisture in your hair locks and helps tame frizzes. The vitamins and antioxidants in henna help nourish the scalp and prevent hair fall by restoring the natural pH levels of the scalp.
Lastly, it helps fight premature greying of hair by strengthening hair’s natural pigments. Black henna hair dye has remarkable long-term benefits for your hair health and is a must-use for well-nourished and shiny hair.
How to use henna?
You may have the best henna for hair, but without following the right application technique, you may not be able to see the desired results. Here’s how you can ensure that the best henna for grey hair brings you the best result:
- Mix 3-4 tablespoons of henna powder with 3-4 cups of water (change the henna quantity as per hair length) in a mixing bowl.
- Mix the henna and water gently to avoid lumps. Let the mixture rest overnight (or 6-8 hours).
- Just before applying it, add 6-8 drops of lemon juice to the henna for a darker colour.
- Wear hand gloves (to avoid stains) and wrap an old cloth around your shoulders to prevent henna from staining your clothes.
- Now, take a brush and gently start applying the henna paste to your combed hair. The key is to divide the hair into sections, apply the henna from root to tip, and then wrap it around the head in a bun-like shape.
- Once all the hair is covered, use a shower cap to cover it and leave it for 30-60 minutes before rinsing the henna off with cool water.
- Avoid using shampoo or conditioner on the hair for at least 2 days to see the colour prominently.
Best henna for hair
1. Henna And Indigo Hair Pack
Henna and indigo hair pack is one of the best henna for hair as it helps clean the scalp and eliminate itchiness. It also adds a very beautiful colour to your hair. You can mix indigo with your henna paste for a subtle reddish-brown tint or use it on your hair after the day of applying henna. Doing the indigo treatment a day after is ideal if you want black locks.
2. Henna And Neem Powder Hair Pack
Henna and neem powder hair pack is one of the best henna for hair as it is a magical treatment for dandruff and flaky scalp. All you need to do is add some neem powder to your regular henna mix, and the antifungal properties of both will help cure itchy scalp issues by reducing the growth of fungus. This henna for hair also strengthens hair follicles and boosts hair health.
3. Henna And Black Tea Hair Pack
The henna and black tea hair pack is one of the best henna hair dyes. Add some black tea leaves to boiling water, let it cool down, and then add your henna powder to the strained tea concoction. The tannins in black tea help prevent the formation of grey hair, making it the best henna for grey hair. It also promotes hair growth by strengthening hair follicles.
Disclaimer: Before incorporating the aforementioned products into your beauty routine, it's advisable to seek guidance from a specialist or your primary healthcare provider. Skin reactions vary based on individual sensitivities, and allergies may manifest. The benefits outlined for using the products are general and may not apply universally. Consulting a professional ensures personalised advice tailored to your specific skin and hair type.