How to Dye Your Hair With Henna
We all want to change our hair up once in a while, why not choose an ancient technique that won’t compromise your strands?
As a natural, long haired woman I am constantly bombarded with false images of women who somehow maintain healthy long hair through multiple bleach and dye jobs. In summer months this doesn’t affect me as much as it does during the holiday season. Just one look at my dry skin and lifeless mouse brown strands is enough to make me want to bleach and chop. Luckily delayed gratification is one of my strong points.
Recently I started studying henna dye. Last night I finally took the plunge and purchased one box of Reshma Beauty 30 Minute Henna, Natural Highlights from Sally Beauty Supply. I wasn’t deterred by the orangey color as my natural color is auburn and my hair is much darker in months of limited sun. Unlike most dyes, one box was plenty for my thick, waist length hair. I am happy with the results, I look like an amplified version of me, nothing unnatural and I think it will blend well when my long hair continues to grow. Here are some tips to make the most out of your henna.
Steps to Henna Hair Dyeing
- Mix your henna with hibiscus or any other red color tea if you seek more reddish tones. I also added lemon juice and olive oil to mine. If you seek a brunette color then mix it with with coffee or black tea.
- After mixing your henna smooth, let it sit a minimum of 3 hours before applying it.
- Before dying your hair cover your face and neck with Vaseline, also coat your hair with a carrier oil such as coconut or avocado oil or just dampen it, this helps the henna stick to your hair.
- Use plastic gloves to apply evenly and wrap your hair up in Saran Wrap and a shower cap for extra protection.
- Leave it on for a minimum of 2 hours for the best results. I kept mine on for 4 hours and I love my color, however it is still pretty subtle. If you’re looking for a bold change of color it is safe to leave on overnight.
- Rinse off with cold water until water runs clear, apply a rich deep conditioner like Shea Moisture or Pacifica Coconut Pro put on a shower cap and keep on for at least an hour.
- Rinse off, comb through with\ a wide tooth comb and style as usual. Resist the urge to shampoo for at least 24 hours for best results.
What I love about henna is it grows out more natural than box dyes. You won’t feel as tempted to go in and fry your roots every couples of months. However if you do choose to touch it up, the color only becomes richer and shinier with every application. Henna also has the benefit of not stripping your hair, but adding to it. You won’t have to worry about damage, and if you hate it, simply stop touching it up and it will grow out beautifully by the time summer and it’s longer days roll back around.