How to Cover Grey Hair Using Henna and Some Benefits

One of the most frequently asked questions we receive about henna is: how to cover grey using henna. This article will cover all the details regarding the application of henna on grey hair. Before getting into the subject, you need to understand the importance of getting an organic henna dye. 

When I first colored my hair using henna, my hairstylist told me not to get my hair chemically colored until henna completely washes off. It is because certain brands of henna use chemical salts that can burn your hair strands.

Luckily, it’s not the case with The Henna Guys’ dye. Their henna is made up of 100% pure plant dye and is free of chemicals and salts. However, if you are used to dying your hair with chemicals, it is advised to wait for 6 to 8 weeks before coloring your hair with henna.

Now coming to the actual gist

How to cover grey using henna?

Covering your grey hair with henna is a simple two-step process. First things first, you need to clean your hair properly with shampoo to get rid of any oils which might act as a barrier between henna and your hair and then proceed with henna application. 

Things You Will Need

  • A bowl (preferably made of glass or plastic)
  • Wooden spoon
  • 1 pack of organic hair dye
  • 2 cups of black tea
  • Apple cider vinegar (1-2 tablespoons)
  • Ground Cinnamon (1-3 teaspoons)
  • Oil or Vaseline
  • Shower cap
  • Gloves (unless you want red hands when you are done)
  • An old t-shirt that you don’t mind ruining
  • Hair clips

Application of Henna on Grey Hair

Step 1: Simply add powdered henna in a bowl, add apple cider vinegar, cinnamon and mix well.

Step 2: Slowly start adding black tea into the henna and stir well to make a paste. Make sure that the mixture isn’t too runny. It should have the consistency of yogurt.

Step 3: At this point, cover the bowl with a plastic wrap. Keep it aside for 8 to 12 hours. The dye will turn dark brown after you let it sit for 12 hours. That’s when you know it’s time to start applying the hair color.

Step 4: Wear a t-shirt you don’t mind ruining and cover your shoulder with a towel. Apply Vaseline to your hairline, neck and ears to prevent staining.

Step 5: Start sectioning off your hair with a comb and apply henna, coat your hair strands thoroughly.

Step 6: Leave the mixture in your hair for 2 to 4 hours. Keep a shower cap. Wrap your hair with a shower cap to avoid any mess.

Step 7: Unwrap your hair and start rinsing your hair with warm water. Do not shampoo your hair for 24 hours after henna application. The color will develop completely after 24 hours and will last you a good 12 to 8 weeks.

Tips for Using Henna on Grey Hair

  • Firstly, you need to follow the directions mentioned above thoroughly. Always keep your gloves, Vaseline and a towel ready before you begin the dyeing process.
  • Coloring your hair with henna dye is a messy process. Even if you are wearing an old t-shirt, it’s good to apply henna in a dry shower.
  • Don’t make the henna paste too runny. Remember, it shouldn’t drip down the spoon while being easily spreadable. Otherwise, it will drip down your neck and forehead and end up staining your entire body.
  • Do not wash the henna dye after one to 2 hours. Ideally, you should leave it for 8 to 12 hours covered in a shower cap. If you wish to cover the greys completely, leave it for the specified duration.
  • Do not skip on the vinegar, cinnamon and black tea. They bring out a deep, saturated color we all desire.

FAQs About Henna Hair Dye

  • Can I add other ingredients to my henna dye before applying it?

Well, the short answer is yes. However, do not add anything unnatural. You can add eggs, vinegar, oil to the mix but avoid adding any bleaching agents.

  • When is the best time to apply henna; on clean hair or dirty hair?

This confusion is created by the fact that hair stylists recommend you to apply chemical-based hair colors on dirty hair. It is done to ensure a layer of sebum can protect your routes from chemicals. Natural henna does not have any chemicals. Hence, it is advised to apply henna on freshly washed hair.

  • Is henna suitable for all hair types?

Henna is suitable for all types of hair. It is not only a way to color your hair but is a great hair health booster.

  • Will henna stain my skin?

Yes, henna can and will stain your skin if you do not take proper care while applying it. Always wear gloves. Cover your scalp, ears and neck with Vaseline to avoid henna stains.

  • Is henna safe for pregnant women?

While doctors ask you to avoid using chemical hair dyes, there are no such problems associated with henna. Make sure you are using an organic henna brand.

  • Will my hair color bleed after using henna?

Well, your hair color might bleed for the first few times while washing. In this aspect, henna is quite similar to your conventional hair dyes. After 2 to 3 washes, your hair will be set.

  • How long does the henna color last?

Well, henna typically lasts for a period of 8 to 12 weeks. After that, the color will gradually start to fade away. But henna dye lasts much longer than your conventional dye.

  • Can you recommend any good henna dye?

Of course, you can get your hands on a vegan, cruelty-free and organic henna hair dye. From ‘The Henna Guys’ will cover your greys seamlessly without burning your scalp like conventional chemical dyes. Moreover, this product has over 3000 verified reviews and has an overall rating of 4.5/5 stars.

I hope that you found this article helpful and gained some insight on how to cover grey using henna. If you have any more questions, leave them down in the comments section below and our henna experts will get back to you as soon as possible.