Cómo preparar la henna para el pelo
If you’re looking to achieve vibrant, natural hair color without the harsh chemicals found in commercial dyes, henna is an excellent alternative. Henna, derived from the dried leaves of the Lawsonia inermis plant, has been used for centuries to dye hair and skin. Preparing henna for hair can seem daunting at first, but with the right steps, you can achieve a beautiful, healthy mane. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of how to prepare henna for your hair.
First and foremost, it’s essential to choose the right type of henna. There are two main types: pure henna, which only contains the red dye from the henna leaves, and mixed henna, which contains additional chemicals and plant extracts to enhance the color and consistency. For a natural hair dye, opt for pure henna. You can find pure henna at most natural beauty stores or online.
Once you have your pure henna powder, follow these steps to prepare it for your hair:
1. Measure the Henna: Begin by measuring the amount of henna powder you’ll need. A general guideline is to use 2 tablespoons of henna powder for short hair and 4 tablespoons for medium to long hair. Adjust the amount according to your hair length and desired color intensity.
2. Mix with Water: Gradually add warm water to the henna powder in a non-metallic bowl, stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth paste. The consistency should be similar to yogurt. If the paste is too thick, add a little more water; if it’s too runny, add more henna powder.
3. Let it Sit: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the henna sit for at least 6-8 hours, or overnight. This allows the henna to absorb the water and activate its dye properties.
4. Add Conditioner (Optional): If you want to enhance the shine and softness of your hair, you can mix in a small amount of conditioner. Use a conditioner that is free from sulfates and silicones, as these can interfere with the henna’s dyeing process.
5. Apply the Henna: Once the henna has reached room temperature, apply it to your hair. Start from the roots and work your way down to the tips. Make sure to cover all strands evenly. You can use gloves to protect your hands from staining.
6. Leave it On: Leave the henna on your hair for at least 4-6 hours, or even overnight for a more intense color. The longer you leave it on, the more vibrant the color will be.
7. Rinse Out: After the desired time has passed, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water until the water runs clear. You may need to shampoo your hair once or twice to remove any remaining henna paste.
Remember that the color of your hair will depend on several factors, including your natural hair color, the type of henna you use, and how long you leave it on. Experiment with different preparation methods and application times to find the perfect formula for your hair.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a stunning, natural hair color with henna. ¡Buena suerte!
