Coloring Your Hair Naturally : A 5000 year old recipe

 5 minute read

In the historical tapestry of beauty rituals, the queens of ancient civilizations were the trendsetters. Among them, Cleopatra, the queen of Egypt, held an indelible place. Her beauty regimen, especially her hair coloring practices, have been subjects of admiration and inspiration for over two millennia. Cleopatra was known to use natural compounds, predominantly henna, to lend a rich, reddish hue to her hair. Henna is derived from the Lawsonia inermis plant, and its use as a hair dye dates back as far as the Bronze Age. This natural coloring method was not only a testament to the queen's aesthetic preference but also an embodiment of her wisdom, recognizing the nourishing properties of these natural compounds. The resulting hair color was vibrant, and the hair itself remained healthy and strong — a truly regal combination.

In the present-day world of artificial colors, it is essential to reflect on the wisdom of our ancestors and seek out natural options for hair dye. The convenience of market-ready synthetic hair dyes can be enticing, but the dark side of these products lies in their chemical compositions. These hair dyes often contain a cocktail of toxic chemicals such as ammonia, p-Phenylenediamine (PPD), and Resorcinol, which are associated with a host of health issues.

Over time, these chemicals can damage the hair shaft, leading to brittle, dry hair and premature graying. Even more concerning are the potential systemic effects, which include allergic reactions and, in extreme cases, a heightened risk of certain types of cancer. Opting for natural hair coloring options like henna, indigo, or beetroot and carrot juices can help to avoid such adverse effects. These natural compounds not only lend attractive colors to the hair but also nourish the scalp and hair follicles, promoting overall hair health.

Are you looking to switch up your hair color without using harmful chemicals? Look no further! In this beginner's guide, we'll walk you through the process of coloring your hair naturally using Henna and Indigo. Get ready to achieve stunning and vibrant results while keeping your hair healthy and chemical-free.

The following steps apply to anyone who is looking to cover their greys and has naturally dark brown to black hair. If you are looking for instructions on how to color your different shades of brown or red, you will need to follow a different recipe with varying ratios of henna and indigo to get the desired color. Please check out Henna Guys for more information and to purchase natural hair products.

FYI, we do not get any kickbacks or commissions for recommending any products. We do so to make your life easier.

Step 1: Preparing the Henna Mixture

1. Start by purchasing high-quality Henna powder, such as the one from Henna Guys.
2. Mix the Henna powder with warm water in a non-metallic bowl to create a smooth and creamy paste. Follow the instructions provided on the packaging for the correct measurements.
3. Let the Henna paste sit overnight to allow the dye to release.

Step 2: Applying the Henna

1. Before applying the Henna, ensure your hair is clean and free from styling products.
2. Wear gloves to protect your hands from staining.
3. Section your hair and begin applying the Henna paste from roots to ends, ensuring even coverage.
4. Once your hair is fully covered, pile it on top of your head and cover it with a shower cap or plastic wrap.
5. Leave the Henna on for the recommended time mentioned in the instructions (usually 2-4 hours).

Step 3: Rinsing out the Henna

1. Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
2. Avoid using shampoo or conditioner during this rinse to allow the Henna to settle into your hair.

Step 4: Day 2 - Preparing the Indigo

1. After rinsing out the Henna, let your hair dry completely. Wait until the day after to apply Indigo for the best results.
2. Prepare the Indigo mixture following the instructions provided on the packaging.
3. Mix the Indigo powder with warm water to create a smooth paste. Make sure you apply indigo right after mixing it.

Step 5: Applying the Indigo

1. Apply the Indigo paste to your hair, just like you did with the Henna. Make sure to cover all areas evenly.
2. Once applied, cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap and leave it on for the recommended time (usually around 1-2 hours).

Step 6: Rinsing out the Indigo

1. Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
2. You can now use a mild shampoo and conditioner to remove any residue and enhance the shine and softness of your hair. Waiting 24 hours to use a shampoo will help the indigo settle a bit more and give you better coverage.
3. Always make sure that you use sulfate and paraben-free shampoos and conditioners to prevent the natural dyes from washing out. I have been using Pureology shampoos and conditioners, which work well to protect the natural colors. Henna Guys also offers their line of sulfate-free shampoos, which will be a good option.

Precautions and Warnings:

• Always perform a patch test before using Henna and Indigo to check for any allergic reactions.
• Avoid direct contact with your eyes during the application process.
• Wear gloves to protect your hands from staining.
• This method is not suitable for chemically treated hair. Consult a professional if you have previously dyed or treated your hair.

Now, you can enjoy your naturally colored hair! Embrace the beauty and health benefits of Henna and Indigo, and feel confident in your chemical-free hair transformation. Remember to perform regular maintenance treatments to maintain the vibrancy of your color. Enjoy your new look and embrace the power of natural hair care!

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.