When you're looking for natural, effective hair dye, you'll want to consider henna. It's an easy-to-use alternative to commercially-formulated hair color.
And, if you use 100% natural henna, you'll be happier with the final result. Before you start using henna or any other hair dye though, read on to find out more.
Natural Vs. Chemical
Chemical dyes are tough on hair and cause significant damage over time. You've probably heard of over-dyeing. This only happens with chemicals due to their caustic ingredients. If you look through the ingredients on most hair dyes expect to see ammonia, metallic salts, PPD, and more. You may even feel the effects of these chemicals on your scalp due to the burning sensation while being used.
Unlike harsh dyes, 100% henna actually bonds with your hair, creating a natural change in color. Without containing toxic ingredients, your hair and scalp are moisturized, helping your henna tinted hair to be healthier than ever.
Benefits of Henna For Hair
One of the primary benefits of henna is that it's great for people who want to get rid of the grey. If you've noticed a few strands of silver appear, you can easily get rid of them with an application of henna. The color henna turns your gray hair into is a coppery orange. So, you'll get a healthy boost and some great highlights of color. This is a great benefit if you're starting to turn prematurely gray or if age is starting to show up in your hair. A touch up of color is usually required about every six to eight weeks.
Henna also offers an alternative to chemical cremes. If you're allergic or sensitive to chemically-based dyes, then you may have thought that you didn't have the option to permanently color your hair. With henna as a base, you will have access to a wide range of colors. For example, you can use henna and indigo, which is also a plant, to color your hair black. And, while you're changing your color, henna will keep your hair strong by nourishing it from the roots.
Henna also works with your hair's natural appearance. If you have highlights and low-lights in your hair before, you'll still have them when you finish. Instead of having to artificially put in natural color variation, you'll maintain your hair's unique features while still getting a great color.
Dyeing Your Hair
Although there are many professional stylists who can dye your hair with henna, you can certainly take on this task at home as well. It is not difficult to do once you learn the process.
Keep in mind that henna is extremely messy. You'll want to wear gloves to avoid having the henna dye stain your hands. You should also make sure to apply it in a place that can be easily cleaned. Henna can stain materials, so be careful of where you apply it and contain any spills.
To protect from staining your skin, consider using a balm around your forehead, ears, and neck - such as petroleum jelly. If you do get any dye on your skin, wipe it off quickly. But applying a balm is an easy preventative measure. Otherwise, you risk having an orange, temporary stain that could last for a few days.
Finally, you'll want to make sure that you pay attention to the instructions for how long the henna should set. Henna requires more prep time and takes longer to work than traditional dyes. But in my experience, 2 hours is usually long enough for desired results. While waiting, make sure to keep your scalp wrapped in plastic. This prevents the henna from drying out. Also, you won't risk brushing your hair against anything and cause stains.
Enjoy Your Color
Henna-dyed hair looks great when you're done. And, if you follow the directions, you should end up with a great overall color. Keep in mind that henna hair dye may last for longer than chemical dyes, it tends not to fade. So, make sure that you're absolutely certain you want to dye your hair before proceeding. However, the significant benefits of 100% natural henna hair dye make it a great choice.
