Once you’ve mixed the powder and water, cover the bowl with plastic and let it develop at room temperature for about 12 hours. When you’re ready to apply the dye, mix in a bit more water until you have a thick but spreadable consistency.
Do not condition your hair, as the oils in the conditioner can prevent the henna from penetrating your roots properly. [2] X Research source
The oil will create a barrier between the henna and your skin, so this will prevent stains around your hairline.
You don’t have to section off your hair, because you’ll be dyeing it in layers.
You can also use a plastic sheet, poncho, or a cutting cape. Keep a damp rag nearby to wipe drips off your skin immediately.
Henna paste doesn’t spread as easily as conventional dye, so it’s important to ensure that your hair is fully saturated from root to tip.
For short hair, twist the section and pin it on top of your head to keep it out of the way.
For short hair, twist the section, place it on top of the original section, and pin it in place.
Keep twisting and wrapping each section of hair around the original bun. [6] X Research source
Wrapping your hair in plastic will help keep the henna warm and moist, and this will allow it to set. [8] X Research source If you have to go out while your hair is like this, you can wrap a scarf around the plastic wrap to cover it.
You can leave the henna on for as long as six hours if you want to achieve maximum vibrancy. [9] X Research source [10] X Expert Source Moushami IyerHenna Artist Expert Interview. 12 July 2021. A few hours should be enough if you’re just nourishing your hair with henna. [11] X Expert Source Moushami IyerHenna Artist Expert Interview. 12 July 2021.
Continue conditioning and rinsing until the water runs clear and there’s no paste left in your hair.
When touching up roots, leave the henna on for the same amount of time as the original application to achieve a similar color.
