Henna is made using the dried, crushed leaves of the henna plant (Lawsonia inermis). The natural dying properties found in henna are tannins of red pigments. Natural henna usually comes as a powder which is activated by hot water whereas henna/metallic salt products can come as a powder or liquid. Either form should be used with a deep conditioner because they can be drying to the scalp and hair.

picture of henna leaf

Henna is more of a temporary "stain" than a dye. Although the color produced by henna usually lasts 30-35 days, the henna itself may take months to completely wear away from the hair shaft. For this reason it's suggested that you wait before following up the use of this product with any sort chemical procedure (i.e. relaxers, chemical dyes, etc).

If you have relaxed hair and have been using henna but would like to switch to a chemically permanent dye, you have to remove the henna from the hair shaft before you proceed. The chemical reaction between the henna and products that use aniline dyes (most major products) will cause adverse reactions, so it's important to have a professional colorist remove the henna from the shaft before you proceed.

As a result of henna's reaction to some chemical procedures, many licensed beauticians would not suggest using the product. This fear is understandable and we strongly recommend you consider a chemical colorant to achieve the best, most predictable results.  But if your aim is to remain natural, and you're willing to give henna a try, educate yourself on the product, seek professional advice and follow the manufacturers instructions and you should be fine.

How to Color with Henna
Henna comes in many colors and there are currently a variety of different products on the market. Before making your final purchase, do some label reading and ask friends which products gave them the best results. As always, read and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Here are some additional tips...

Examine your scalp for cuts or abrasions as you could have adverse reactions if the product permeates and infects even the smallest opening.

Never color a freshly shampoo'd head of hair.

Using gloves, mix the henna as directed. For a smoother consistency, try adding olive oil and an egg to the mixture. This will make it easier to apply the product, will
replace any oils that will be stripped in the coloring process and will subsequently give your hair a natural source of protein. Allow the product to set as directed. Then shampoo and rinse, re-rinse and rinse again thoroughly.

Another alternative is to omit the egg from the treatment.  This is a definite for those with Dreadlocks who are determined to color their hair naturally.  Because food products and tightly matted dreadlocks don't mix, you can also try mixing the henna with a deep conditioner as this will combat any drying effects.  Keep in mind that some henna products have bits of herb in them that may be next to impossible to rinse out of your dreadlocks.  Once mixed, if it looks like you'll have to sand-blast the product out, seek another brand.

Begin by mixing the henna using half the water as directed by the manufacturer. In its place, add your favorite deep conditioner to the mixture.  Continue adding the conditioner until it reaches the desired consistency.  Apply to your hair evenly and massage thoroughly.  Leave on as directed.  Once it has process, shampoo your hair.

The above recipes may be used with colorless henna as it adds volume to fine hair without coloring it.

Finally, If you want longer lasting color, repeat the process two or three times to allow the henna to fully coat the outer layer of the hair shaft. Not only will this extend the life of your color but some have found that it gives the hair more body.