Henna Hair Dye is Safer

Henna is a semi-permanent hair coloring with a coating action that seals in oils and tightens the hair cuticles to give more shine and luster. It gradually washes out of your hair. When using henna to color your hair, the new color will go through an adjustment period of 2-3 days, so do not panic if your hair seems brassy or dull – it will change.

Remember the hair cannot be made lighter with henna. It can be made darker by leaving he henna on the hair longer; or by choosing a darker shade. It is recommended you start with a light shade and reapply more henna, rather than starting right off with a dark shade.

You can also create new colors by mixing together several hennas. You can do a sample test on your own hair. Gather up a small sample piece of hair from a place you will not notice – usually near the nape of the neck. Use a rubber band to tightly bind the swatch together. Mix a small amount of henna powder with water and apply it to the swatch. Let it sit for 15 minutes.

The mixture is: 1/2 cup pure henna powder and 1/4 cup boiling water (approximately). You may need more for long hair. Place henna powder in a glass or ceramic container and slowly add the boiling water; stirring until you have a thick paste the consistency of mud. You may need to add more water.

Apply henna to clean, dry hair. You should wear gloves so it doesn't stain your hands. Cover your entire head with henna and massage well into your hair; through to the ends. Wrap your head in a plastic wrap or use a plastic shower cap.

Keep your head warm by sitting in the sun or use a handheld blow-dryer and keep it moving or wrap your head in a warm, wet towel. Leave in for 15 to 45 minutes. The longer it is left in the darker the color will become.

Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water until the water runs clear. Shampoo your hair, using a very mild shampoo, and rinse well. You can now dry and style your hair as usual. The color should stay in your hair 3 to 6 months.