As soon as you notice the first strand of grey hair you start to think of ways to make it look less visible. One of the easiest ways to do that is to colour or dye your hair. Being conscious about the health of your hair and in order to avoid chemical-laden hair dyes, a lot of women choose the age-old, traditional method of using henna to colour their hair.
But how safe is it to use henna on your hair? Let’s take a look at all the pros and cons of using this traditional method of hair colouring.
Pros:
Natural
The most important reason people prefer henna over hair dyes is because it is natural. There are no known side effects of using henna and is therefore suitable for all hair and scalp types. Since it penetrates strands at a molecular level, it covers grey hair more deeply and naturally.
Improves hair health
Henna coats the strands, binds with the hair shaft and fills-in imperfections and damage caused by external factors. Since it binds with the keratin instead of just sticking to the hair strands, it helps smooth out the cuticles. This makes your hair stronger, smoother and softer.
Keeps dandruff at bay
Some people have found relief from dandruff after applying henna to their hair. The antibacterial and antifungal properties of henna cure scalp infections as well as dandruff and prevent it from coming back.
Cons:
Unpredictable colour
Getting the right colour can be quite tricky with henna. The colour depends on the additives used at the time of application, because pure henna gives a deep red colour. You cannot predict the end result of your hair colour since it also depends on the natural colour of your hair.
Can make some hair types feel dry
Although rare, some hair types can experience extremely dry and frizzy hair post henna application. If you have dry hair, there is a possibility that henna can make your hair drier. Therefore be careful about applying this all-natural hair colour to your hair.
Can get messy
Henna can quickly stain anything it falls on and henna application is no easy job, it can get quite messy. We advise asking your mom or friend to do it for you and wear an old t-shirt. Be careful not to get it on your skin as it will leave the skin stained for days.
Written by Sanya Hamdani on Nov 29, 2019
Sanya Hamdani is a skincare enthusiast and lipstick hoarder, she truly believes no two red lipsticks look exactly alike. With a Master's degree in Communication & Journalism and 5+ years of digital writing experience up her sleeve, Sanya has some of the biggest beauty experts in the country on her speed dial. When she's not swatching products or writing about the latest trends in beauty, you will find her watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S. or cooking up a storm in the kitchen.