How to Apply Henna Hair Dye

Among its other uses, henna is revered for being one of the oldest hair dyes in history. Aside from a lovely and subtle red shading, many people feel that henna enhances the hair's overall health, adding strength and shine. Here is how to apply henna hair dye.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Henna powder
• Lemon juice
• Water
• Plastic gloves
• Petroleum jelly (optional)
• Shower cap

1. Dump henna powder into a mixing bowl and turn it into a goopy paste by adding equal parts water and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until the desired consistency is reached. Be sure to mash out all of the lumps.

2. Set the henna paste aside and begin prepping for the dye job.

3. Apply petroleum jelly along the hairline and ears, and anyplace that might come into contact with the henna-soaked hair. This will ensure that the henna does not stain the skin.

4. Put on the plastic gloves. Scoop up the henna paste with your hands and begin working through the hair. Make sure that all of the hair is saturated with the paste, from the roots to the ends.

5. Pile the saturated hair on top of the head and cover with a shower cap. Allow the dye to penetrate the hair for at least 1 hour (up to 3 hours if time permits).

6. Rinse the henna paste out of the hair with warm water. Do not stop rinsing until the water runs clear.

7. Use a top-quality conditioner on the hair immediately following the henna treatment.

Tips & Warnings

• Henna is intended to provide subtle shading and highlighting. Results will not be dramatic unless applied to very light shades of hair.
• Henna can be reapplied once a month.