5 Ways to Help Prepare for a Henna Hair Application

Unlike chemical dyes, henna doesn’t break and reform chemical bonds within the keratin structure of your hair. Instead, henna binds with keratin in your hair, so the results can be altered by the condition of your hair before you apply it.

Whether this is your first time or your fifth, here’s how to prepare your hair properly so you get the richest colour, longest-lasting results, and a stress-free application.

1. Clarify, Clarify, Clarify

Henna works best on clean, product-free hair. That means no build-up from silicones, oils, dry shampoo, or styling products. These can all act like a barrier and prevent the henna from absorbing properly.

If you have been using a lot of products and have build-up in your hair, use a gentle clarifying shampoo a few days before you plan to dye. If your hair has been through a lot (think: heavy oils, butters, silicones), you may want to do a deep cleanse with a clay wash or a similar natural alternative. But keep it simple — no need to scrub your scalp raw.

2. Shampoo Your Hair Right Before Application

On the day of your application, wash your hair right before you start, and skip the conditioner. Conditioner can coat the strands and interfere with how well the dye takes. 

Consider doing a quick apple cider vinegar rinse after your shampoo. This helps detangle your conditioner-free hair, resets your scalp’s pH, and helps cleanse the hair & scalp from residue.

DIY Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse:

• 10ml raw apple cider vinegar

• 100ml distilled water 

• 2-4 drops of rosemary or another essential oil recommended for hair use.

Combine all ingredients into a glass bottle or jar and shake. Pour over your scalp after shampooing, gently comb through the hair to the ends, and rinse out.

When you are rinsing your hair out, after applying the paste, use only conditioner and no shampoo. This is because the foaming agents in shampoo can lift the henna out of your hair and affect the results.

3. Wear Dark Clothing on Application Day

Henna can be messy if it’s your first time. Like with any hair dye, drips happen. Wear an old dark T-shirt or something you don’t mind getting stained. Make sure you choose a top without a collar or something that could get in the way.

4. Prepare Dark Towels and Pillowcases

Henna stains — and not just your hair. Be prepared for some colour transfer over the next few days as your hair oxidises and settles. Swap your regular towels and pillowcases for dark ones you won’t mind staining. It’s a small step that saves you the stress later.

5. Leave enough time

Make sure you follow all instructions carefully, and leave enough time for your paste to develop before you plan to apply it. Also, make sure you have enough time to let the paste stay in your hair for 2-3 hours after application, before rinsing.

That’s it — simple, practical steps to help your henna take beautifully. With clean hair and a little prep, you’ll set yourself up for rich colour and a smoother dye day.