How to Apply Henna to Hair

Henna is a natural and safe alternative to chemical hair dyes. It's derived from the leaves of the henna plant and can be used to dye hair a reddish-brown color. Here's how to apply henna to your hair:

1. Choose high-quality henna: Look for henna that is 100% natural and free from any chemicals or additives. You can find henna powder in health food stores, online, or at Indian grocery stores.

2. Prepare the henna paste: Mix the henna powder with warm water until it forms a thick paste. You can also add other natural ingredients like lemon juice, coffee, or tea to enhance the color and conditioning properties of the henna.

3. Cover your hair: Wear gloves and cover your shoulders with a towel or old shirt. Apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly around your hairline and ears to prevent staining.

4. Apply the henna: Section your hair into smaller sections and apply the henna paste to each section, starting from the roots and working your way to the ends. Make sure to saturate each section of hair with the henna paste.

5. Let it sit: Once you have applied the henna, cover your hair with a shower cap and let it sit for at least 2-3 hours. The longer you leave it on, the darker the color will be.

6. Rinse it off: After the henna has been on your hair for the desired amount of time, rinse it off with warm water. Do not use shampoo for at least 24 hours as it can strip the henna from your hair.

7. Condition your hair: Apply a deep conditioner to your hair after rinsing off the henna. This will help to soften and detangle your hair.

8. Dry and style your hair: Once you have conditioned your hair, rinse it out and dry and style your hair as usual.

Note: Henna can be drying to some hair types. If you have dry or damaged hair, you can add coconut oil or another natural oil to the henna paste for added conditioning. Always do a patch test before applying henna to your hair to make sure you're not allergic to it.