While Henna is a natural plant based alternative to using permanent hair dye, you should be informed prior to applying so you set the right expections. Here are some things you should know about using Henna for hair color:
#1 You will not get a drastic change
The color does not dramatically change your hair color unless your hair is already a medium shade of brown or lighter. In other words, it provides a hue to your dark hair, but that’s about it. I will say that when I’m in the sun, the color is very vibrant – which is really nice – especially during summertime. But unless your hair is already light, don’t expect a drastic color change. I’ve been told that, over time, the color will deepen, and I’m planning to continue to color with henna at least once a month to see how deep the color will become. (My hair is not black, but it is dark brown naturally.)
#2 Hennas remain in your hair permanently
The other con is the fact that henna stays in your hair permanently. However, unlike chemical dyes it coats the outside surface and not the inner structure. Overtime (4-6 weeks) the color fades.
#3 It is advised not to apply chemical dyes after you have used Henna
This is because the chemicals can react with the Henna which in turn may not leave you with your desired hair color result and in some cases could cause damage.
#4 Henna acts like a protein treatment
For those who are protein sensitive this is something to consider. To me, though, the pros outweigh the cons, since for me it is helpful for strengthening my hair.
#5 It may alter your curl pattern
For some Henna has been said to loosen the curl pattern of hair if used consistently – and that’s not a problem if that’s what you are going for.
#6 Just because it is all natural doesn’t mean you are not allergic to it
Always do a strand test to make sure it is safe for you to use.
#7 Make sure it is real Henna there are a lot of fakes that do contain chemicals and random ingredients
Try Jamila Henna Powder
Years ago, I decided to take the plunge and dye my hair. I wanted the honey blonde color, the one that EVERYONE was wearing. For a few weeks, I was on cloud nine; it felt like I was an entirely new person, and I was on top of the world! But as time went on, I started to experience hair breakage. My ends began to split, and a lot of my hair actually snapped – that’s right – snapped – off. It goes without saying that after that debacle, I was completely wary of changing my hair color due to the damage that is inevitably involved, and I refused to try any color changes to my hair for many years after that.
Fast forward. I really wanted to change my hair color to red – not Rihanna red but reminiscent of that color – a tad deeper. I had been doing some research for quite some time, and the option of henna came to my attention. I was completely sold on the fact that it is a natural plant that deposits color AND strengthens the hair at the same time.
I’ll definitely keep you posted with results as time goes by. Keep your eyes peeled for the next update because who knows, henna might just be the perfect hair color option!
Great article. Thanks for sharing 🙂
I just happen to surf the web and ran across your site. I saw the title of this article and wanted to quickly say IMPORTANT TO DO A TEST. I used a book about 6 years ago titled Beauty Secrets of India. There was a conditioner using Henna Powder. I went to the store to purchase Henna Powder. Never dyed my hair before. I even had a few henna tattoos done. I didn’t know what I was getting myself into apparently. This was a conditioner treatment and that’s what I was doing with my hair. Using it as a conditioner. . It was basically henna power and yogurt. I prepped it and applied to my hair. My hair felt soft so I went ahead and did it again a week later. One day I noticed I had little pink bumps on my hands. I didn’t know what that was from. It was time to do the conditioner again. Guess what happened? I broke out in a rash from head to toe. It was scary. I wound up going to the emergency room and they called it an allergic reaction. The only thing I added to my routine was that henna conditioner. Long story short when the bumps and itching went it ( it was insane ). I then developed vitiligo. Yep. Its on my hands and elbows and knees. It’s noticeable on my knees but not so much my hands or elbows. I’m sharing this story because it’s imperative for people to make sure they test to see if they have an allergy. I did it a few times, so I don’t know how many times it takes before it’s too late and a problem develops. I’ve never dyed my hair or had chicken pops or anything like that so this was all new for me.
I just really wanted to emphasize you might be allergic to henna.
Someone did mention, perhaps it was the henna that I was using. So you need to be careful where you get it from ( but it was from an Indian grocery store ) , you need to be careful to do a scratch test, but then what may come of that ?
How to apply henna hair dye?
I used henna when I was first transitioning to natural and I loved it. I eventually got away from it since the application is a lengthy process and it didn’t cover the gray hair I’d started getting, but I think that I may have to revisit it.