How to Make Black Henna Paste for the Hair

Although henna is a natural and safe product to use when tattooing skin or dyeing hair, black henna can be just the opposite. Black henna is not pure henna, but contains para-phenylendiamine (PPD), which helps make the powder, or paste, black. The result of black henna will indeed be black hair; however, precautions should be taken to avoid health risks, which can include severe allergic reactions and skin blistering.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Black henna powder
• Water
• Stirring stick
• Glass bowl
• Measuring cup
• Protective gloves
• Old newspapers/table covering
• Garbage bag or pail

1. Locate a retailer that sells black henna powder specifically made for dyeing hair. You can find a retailer on-line or in your community. Purchase the black henna powder.

2. Protect your workspace with newspaper or some other type of table cover. Keep a garbage bag or pail next to you.

3. Put on your protective gloves.

4. Fill a measuring cup with water. You will need to use about 3 times as much water as the amount of henna powder that you have available.

5. Pour the black henna powder in to a glass dish.

6. Pour the water in to the black henna powder.

7. Stir the henna powder until it is smooth.

8. Apply to hair as desired, rinse after 30 minutes. Discard the remaining paste in to the garbage bag, and rinse all items thoroughly.

9. Discard your gloves.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use on children or animals.
• Keep out of reach of children and animals.
• Do not let black henna paste get in your eyes or in your mouth.