Henna as a potent dye

Another secret of the henna leaves is their powerful ability to dye hair, skin, nails and fabric. While henna-stained palms (mehndi) might be the most ubiquitous form, henna hair dyes are becoming increasingly popular for their vibrant colours and volume-inducing formulas.

Henna health benefits for hair

We’ve covered the properties that helped popularise henna as a medicine and cosmetic. Now without much further ado, here are our favourite henna benefits for hair that is just as healthy as it is beautiful.­

1. Henna promotes hair growth

Full of antioxidants, which help to improve hair growth, henna hair dyes, shampoos and conditioners all work to achieve fuller, thicker hair strands. These antioxidizing properties are protective at their core, fighting against hair loss in vegans and vegetarians as well as sun damage from UV rays.

2. Fixes damaged hair

Henna hair care is the ideal solution for folks dealing with broken, frizzy or out-of-control hair. With the uncanny ability to relieve oxidative stress – that is, the imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in our bodies – henna can restore damaged hair to its former glory. Simply apply semi-regularly to achieve healthy hair at home.

3. Deep cleans, deep conditions 

One of the brilliant henna benefits for hair and scalps alike is that it works to deep cleanse and condition your tresses, leaving them gorgeously silky to the touch and smelling divine. Say goodbye to dry or greasy hair and see your scalp thank you for it.

4. Fights dandruff and flakiness

You can count on henna conditioner for sensitive scalps as its skin-kind formula strips unwanted dirt and grease from your hair before locking in moisture and revitalising nutrients. As henna’s antifungal and antimicrobial properties help keep itchiness and irritation in check, itchiness will soon be a remnant of the past.

5. Ideal for allergy sufferers

When it comes to hypoallergenic hair care, herbal ingredients are king. Not only does henna contain all the essential proteins required to rejuvenate your hair, but it cuts out harmful synthetic chemicals such as PPD, ammonia and sulphates. Henna is safe to use and makes a brilliant alternative to chemical dyes, whether you’re an allergy sufferer or want to reduce the risk of becoming one.

6. pH balancing

Thanks to an ingredient list infused with medicinal properties, we can say that with henna comes long-term shine. The herbal concoction works to balance the pH of your hair and scalp deep into your follicles for a healthy reset.

7. Plant-based power!

There’s nothing more time-consuming than researching the ethical credentials of every hair and beauty product we buy – but switching to henna products makes this effortless. Entirely natural, plant-based and additive-free, vegan henna is the ideal choice for the conscientious shopper. So not only is henna healthy for your head, but the planet too!

The aesthetic benefits of henna

We’ve talked about the health benefits of henna hair care, but what about the exciting bit, looks? As it turns out when it comes to aesthetics there’s lots to shout about too.

8. Natural fade

If this doesn’t convince you to make the switch to henna hair dye, I don’t know what will! Compared to synthetic box dyes, henna hair dye fades far more naturally. Sections that have been previously dyed will blend evenly with hair growth and you won’t see any of the abrupt contrasts associated with bleached hair – and no one wants that.

9. Endless versatility

The beauty of henna is that it works for all hair types and styles from afro hair and dreadlocks to looser curls and straight hair – this even includes beards! The henna health benefits are universal and there’s a shade out there for everyone.

10. Hide greys

If you’re searching for a natural dye that will cover up greys, look no further. With henna you can strengthen and colour greys simultaneously. Rather than breaking down the bonds of your hair like bleach, henna binds to the follicles adding a layer of shine, colour and protection. This is perfect if it’s a youthful glow you’re after.

11. Long-lasting colour

Due to how henna binds to your hair, it can last longer than your average DIY hair colour. Generally speaking, you will start to see fading at 4-6 weeks after your initial application, but there are many tips and tricks you can employ to make henna hair dye last longer.

12. The colour wheel to your disposal

Now, perhaps the most fun of the henna benefits for hair: you can unlock any natural colour you wish! As henna is 100% plant-based and chemical free, it will blend in harmoniously with your existing tones. Simply consultant a colour chart before you mix your henna colours to work magic.

Nourish and flourish

There we have it: 12 unbelievable henna health benefits for hair, guaranteed to nourish your locks whatever your hair type. If you’re looking to bolster your hair’s natural defences or simply add a little flourish with a striking new colour, henna is the natural hair dye for you.