Henna (mehndi) and hair oil: how to use them together
Henna is wonderful for hair but leaves it dry. How to prepare for henna, when to oil, how to wash it out, and how to keep colour and softness in Punjab.
By the Saba Naturals team. Updated . 4 min read.
Henna has coloured and conditioned hair in Punjab for centuries, and it still does a job no chemical dye can: it coats and strengthens the hair while it colours it. Its one drawback is dryness. The fix is oil, used at the right time.
Before henna: don't oil
Henna needs clean, oil-free hair to take properly. Wash with a mild shampoo like PureRoots Herbal Shampoo the day before or the morning of application, and skip oil for two days beforehand.
Mixing henna for hair
Mix henna powder with warm water or black tea to a yoghurt consistency and let it rest a few hours or overnight. A spoon of yoghurt or a few drops of oil in the paste softens the dryness afterwards without blocking the colour. Avoid "black henna" or compound powders with added chemicals; pure henna gives red-brown tones only.
Applying and washing out
Apply to clean, dry hair in sections, cover, and leave for two to four hours. Rinse with water only, no shampoo, and let the colour deepen for a day or two before the first wash.
After henna: this is when you oil
Henna leaves hair stiff and dry. Two days after application, warm PureRoots Coconut Herbal Oil and massage it through the scalp and lengths. Leave it two hours or overnight, then wash gently. Repeat weekly. The coconut oil restores softness and the hibiscus and amla in the blend actually enrich the red-brown tone over time.
Keeping the colour
- Wash with a gentle shampoo and lukewarm water; hot water fades henna faster.
- Oil weekly; it keeps the cuticle smooth so colour stays in.
- Re-apply henna every four to six weeks for roots.
- In the strong Punjab sun, cover your hair; UV fades any colour.
Common questions
Should I oil my hair before henna?
No. Henna needs clean, oil-free hair to take properly. Wash before applying and skip oil for two days beforehand.
How soon after henna can I oil?
Two days after application, once the colour has deepened. A warm coconut herbal oil massage restores the softness henna takes away.
This guide is general information about hair care, not medical advice. For sudden, heavy or patchy hair loss, or a scalp that is red, sore or not improving, please see a dermatologist.