Get natural brown hair with henna
Chemical hair dyes and salon coloring treatments are becoming increasingly common. While they can give hair an attractive color frequent use may leave hair dry weak and damaged.
For people who want a more natural option homemade henna can be a simple alternative. It can add a warm brown shade while helping hair look soft and shiny.
How chemical dyes can affect hair
Many chemical hair dyes contain ingredients such as ammonia and hydrogen peroxide. These chemicals can affect the hair’s outer layer and may weaken its structure over time.
Repeated coloring can make hair dry and brittle leading to more breakage. Some people may also experience scalp problems such as itching irritation or small bumps.
Why choose natural henna?
Many women use henna but later return to chemical dyes because they do not get the brown shade they want. Adding a few natural ingredients to henna can help create a deeper brown color.
Ingredients you need
1 cup dry henna
2 cups water
1 tablespoon tea leaves
1 tablespoon coffee
1 egg
2 tablespoons coconut mustard or olive oil
How to prepare the mixture
Boil two cups of water with one tablespoon each of tea leaves and coffee. Continue boiling until about one and a quarter cups of water remain.
In a bowl add one cup of dry henna one egg and two tablespoons of your preferred oil. Add the prepared tea and coffee water and mix everything well.
Cover the mixture and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
How to apply henna
Wash your hair properly with shampoo one day before applying the henna. The next day apply the prepared mixture evenly from the roots to the ends.
Leave it on for around three to four hours. Once the henna has dried rinse your hair with plain water.
For the next step mix about half a teaspoon of lemon juice with a small amount of your regular hair oil. Apply it to damp hair and let your hair dry. Shampoo your hair normally the following day.
Use it regularly
Using this henna method around twice a month may gradually give the hair a natural brown tone. It can also help hair look smoother and shinier.
However natural does not always mean risk free. It is best to do a small patch test before using henna or any new ingredient especially if you have sensitive skin or a history of allergies.
