Bharti Singh on never using hair dye, instead relying on homemade henna: ‘Yahi hai meri sundarta ka raaz’

Dr Khushboo Jha, MBBS, MD, Chief Dermatologist Consultant Metro Hospital, and Founder of One Skin Clinic, Faridabad, listed out some benefits of using henna for hair care:

(1) Covers grey hair naturally without any damage – The naturally occurring pigment in henna that aids in binding the hair keratin and giving it a reddish-brown hue is lawsone. Unlike the case of chemical hair dyes, it doesn’t penetrate the hair shaft or damage the hair cuticles, making it safer for use.

(2) Hair strengthening benefits—The henna’s coating of the hair shaft adds weight and structure to the hair, which in turn increases hair volume and makes fine hair look fuller and thicker.

(3) Hair sebum balance and maintenance of scalp health – Henna has antimicrobial and astringent properties. It helps balance oily scalps, soothes inflammation, and may help control dandruff or itchiness.

(4) Hair fall reduction – A healthier scalp means stronger roots. Henna improves blood circulation and removes impurities, which can reduce hair fall over time.

(5) Conditions hair and gives natural lustre—Though people think of henna only as a dye, it also acts as a natural conditioner, leaving hair soft, shiny, and tangle-free.

How can you make henna dye at home?

Ingredients –

100 g henna powder (natural, pure – without added chemicals)
2 tbsp amla powder (optional – darkens tone and strengthens roots)
1–2 tbsp tea or coffee decoction (adds depth to the color)
Warm water (enough to make a paste)
1 tsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (helps with dye release)
An iron bowl (optional – deepens the stain when rested overnight)

What should you keep in mind (Source: Freepik)

Method –

1. In a bowl (preferably iron), mix henna, amla, and tea/coffee decoction.
2. Gradually add warm water until you get a thick, yogurt-like consistency.
3. Add lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to help release the dye.
4. Cover and let the mixture rest for 6–8 hours or overnight.
5. Before applying, stir the paste to remove any lumps.
6. Section your hair and apply from roots to tips using gloves.
7. Leave on for 1.5 to 3 hours (the longer it stays, the deeper the color).
8. Rinse thoroughly with water. Avoid shampoo for 24–48 hours to let the colour set.

What should you keep in mind

Dr Jha recommended pre-testing a patch or a hair strand. “Henna can stain differently depending on your hair type, porosity, and existing colour. Always apply a small amount to a hidden section of hair first,” she said, adding that it works from semi-permanent to permanent.  Once used, the reddish tint can be challenging to remove, complicating future hair colouring with chemical dyes. Chemical colours can even cause reactions or unpredictable results.

Dr Jha also added that henna may lead to hair dryness. “While conditioning, some may find their hair dry after repeated use. You can add 1 tsp of olive oil, aloe vera gel, or curd to the paste for extra moisture,” she pointed out.

The expert also mentioned that gloves and old towels are preferred for application. “Henna stains the skin, clothes, and everything it touches. Protect your hands, ears, and hairline with oil or petroleum jelly, and wear old clothes,” she said. In fact, the results vary depending on hair colour. On grey or light hair, henna gives a vibrant copper-orange hue. On darker hair, it results in subtle warm highlights.

Storage conditions and henna freshness are also crucial. “Use fresh powder. Old or expired henna may lose its dyeing power or cause irritation,” she said.