Mixing henna for hair is a natural and popular way to color hair without the use of harsh chemicals. Henna, a plant-based dye, can provide a reddish-brown tint to the hair. Here’s a simple guide on how to mix henna for hair for women:
Ingredients:
- – Henna powder (body art quality henna is recommended)
- – Lemon juice or water (for brunettes, coffee or black tea can be used)
- – Mixing bowl
- – Plastic or wooden spoon (avoid using metal utensils)
- – Plastic wrap or shower cap
- – Gloves
- – Old t-shirt or cape to protect clothing
Instruction:
1. Choose High-Quality Henna:
Select henna powder that is specifically labeled as “body art quality.” This ensures that the henna is free from harmful additives and chemicals.
2. Measure the Henna:
The amount of henna needed depends on the length and thickness of your hair. For short to medium-length hair, approximately 100-150 grams of henna powder should be sufficient. If you have long or thick hair, you may need more.
3. Prepare the Mixing Liquid:
Pour the henna powder into a mixing bowl and gradually add the liquid of your choice (lemon juice, water, coffee, or black tea). The liquid should be warm, but not boiling hot. Use enough liquid to create a thick, smooth paste.
4. Stir and Mix:
Using a plastic or wooden spoon, stir the henna powder and liquid together until you achieve a consistency similar to that of yogurt. Make sure there are no lumps in the mixture.
5. Let the Henna Paste Rest:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the henna paste sit for 2-6 hours to allow the dye to release and the color to develop. The longer you let it sit, the more intense the color will be.
6. Apply the Henna:
Wear gloves to avoid staining your hands. Part your hair into sections and apply the henna paste to clean, dry hair, working from the roots to the ends. Make sure to cover all of your hair evenly.
7. Wrap and Wait:
Once you have applied the henna, gather your hair on top of your head and wrap it in plastic wrap or a shower cap to keep the henna warm and moist. Leave the henna on your hair for 2-4 hours.
8. Rinse and Wash:
After the recommended time, rinse the henna out of your hair thoroughly with water. Avoid using shampoo for the first 24-48 hours after applying henna to allow the color to set. You may condition your hair if desired.
Note:
Henna can be a bit messy, so it’s a good idea to protect your clothing and surfaces during the application process. It’s also essential to do a patch test before applying henna to your entire hair to check for any allergic reactions.
Conclusion:
Henna can be an excellent natural alternative for women looking to add a reddish-brown tint to their hair while also conditioning and nourishing it. Always use high-quality henna and follow the instructions carefully for best results.