Hair colour is a delightful fashion trend that is not going anywhere anytime soon. But it is not a recent one. Agreed, the various shades and textures are something that is being explored nowadays, but hair colour has been around for quite some time. Today, we are talking about one of the oldest ways of going about colouring your hair - henna. Even though it is a popular means to colour hair, there are many more benefits that it has to offer. In this article, we are all set to tell you how to apply henna on the hair, in a way that offers maximum nourishment and a gorgeous tint to your mane. Are you ready for a colourful ride, the herbal way? Let's start!
01How to Apply Henna on Hair: What You Need to Know Before You Start
Before we get to the application techniques, let's find out about what henna actually is. Henna is a flowering plant, Lawsonia inermis, whose leaves consist of a natural reddish-brown dye known as lawsone. This dye binds with the keratin in your hair, crafting a lasting stain. Unlike chemical dyes, henna coats the hair strand rather than penetrating it, which is why it's considered a more natural and less damaging option. For centuries, it's been used for making body art, hair colouring, and even medicinal purposes.
02Types of Henna
Not all henna is created equal! You'll find various types available, and it's important to pick the right one for your hair: 1. Pure Henna: This is basically ground henna leaves. It will give you a reddish-orange to reddish-brown colour. Always opt for pure henna, which is finely sifted and free of additives. 2. Neutral Henna (Cassia Obovata): While technically not henna, cassia is often referred to as 'neutral henna' because it doesn't offer a red hue. Instead, it conditions the hair and adds sheen. Moreover, this henna adds a subtle blonde or golden tone to very light hair. 3. Black Henna: Black henna often consists of a chemical known as para-phenylenediamine (PPD), which could cause severe allergic reactions and spoil your hair and skin. Therefore, it's advisable to not use anything labeled 'black henna' unless you're absolutely certain it's pure indigo powder, which is a plant based natural black dye, which needs to be used with henna. 4. Indigo Powder: This is a natural dye derived from the indigo plant. It's utilised with henna to achieve darker brown and black tones.
03Benefits of Applying Mehndi on Hair
Beyond the beautiful colour, henna offers a wealth of benefits, including:
1. Henna for Hair Colour:
It imparts a varying degree of reddish-brown shades, depending on your natural hair colour and the type of henna used.
2. Conditions Hair:
Henna is a natural conditioner, making hair smoother, shinier, and stronger.
3. Strengthens Hair:
By binding to the hair strand, henna strengthens hair and minimises breakage.
4. Scalp Health:
Henna boasts antifungal and antimicrobial properties that calm scalp irritation and dandruff.
5. Chemical-Free:
A natural alternative to chemical dyes, henna reduces damage and exposure to harsh chemicals.
04How to Apply Henna on Hair Step by Step
1. Preparation
- Create a smooth paste by mixing henna powder with warm water or other liquids.
- Allow the paste to sit for a few hours to release the color.
- Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo and leave it slightly wet.
- Protect your hairline and ears to avoid staining.
2. Application Steps
- Apply the henna paste evenly from roots to ends.
- Massage the paste into the scalp for better coverage.
- Ensure that the paste is applied thoroughly to all sections of your hair.
3. Processing Time
- Cover your hair with plastic wrap and a towel to retain heat.
- Leave the henna on for 2-4 hours or longer, depending on the desired intensity of color.
4. Rinsing and Aftercare
- Rinse thoroughly with water until it runs clear.
- Avoid shampooing for 24-48 hours to allow the color to set properly.
- If unsure about the application, it's best to consult a professional.
05How to Apply Henna on Hair for Maximum Colour: Best Method
Applying henna on hair? Henna is wonderful on its own, but you can enhance its benefits and customise the hue by combining it with other natural ingredients. Here are some popular combinations:
1. Henna and Multani Mitti (Fuller's Earth):
This combination cleanses the scalp, gets rid of excess oil, and adds volume. It's especially beneficial for people with oily hair.
2. Henna and Coconut Milk:
Coconut milk adds hydration and sheen, making the henna mixture more creamy and easier to apply. It helps combat dryness and keeps the hair soft.
3. Henna and Banana:
Mashed banana adds moisture and potassium that strengthen the hair strang and prevent breakage. It also makes the henna mixture smoother and easier to apply.
4. Henna and Green Tea:
Green tea adds antioxidants and elevates the hue of henna. It also calms the scalp and supports hair growth.
06FAQs on How to Apply Henna on Your Hair
Below are some frequently asked questions about using henna for hair care answered by the experts:
Q: How long does henna last?
A: Henna will fade slowly over time. Touch-ups are typically needed every 4-6 weeks.
Q: Can I use henna on chemically treated hair?
A: Yes, but it's best to wait at least a few months after chemical treatments. You could do a strand test first to see how your hair reacts.
Q: Can I use henna on grey hair?
A: Yes, henna is great for covering gray hair. It will usually turn gray hair a reddish-orange hue.
Q: How do I get a darker brown or black colour with henna?
A: Use a two-step process with henna followed by indigo powder.
Q: Can henna dry out my hair?
A: It can, particularly if left on for too long. Adding hydrating ingredients like coconut milk or banana can help combat dryness.
Q: How do I remove henna?
A: Henna is very difficult to remove. Time and hair growth are the best methods. You can try oil treatments or gentle shampoos, but they may only slightly fade the hue.
Q: Is it better to put henna on wet or dry hair?
A. It's better to apply henna on slightly damp hair, as this helps the paste spread more easily and absorb better.
Q: How long should you leave henna on hair?
A. You should leave henna on your hair for 2-4 hours, or longer if you want a deeper color.
Thus, learning how to apply henna correctly isn't about complex rituals. It's about understanding the plant, preparing your mixture thoughtfully, and giving it the time it needs to work its magic. Embrace the natural beauty of henna, and let your hair tell a vibrant, nourishing story. If you have additional questions or concerns about using henna for hair care, it's best to consult a hair expert. They will offer you personalised advice to achieve your dream hair colour.
