Seven natural alternatives for black hair dye

In as much as white/grey hair is in vogue, some women hate it. To darken the hair without exposing it to harsh bleaches that damage the hair, you can use other gentle ways. To darken the hair using some of the most natural ways, use ingredients found in your home. Here are some:

Coffee: Brew ground coffee, ensure it is very strong. The darker the coffee, the better. Allow it to cool then pour the coffee in a large bowl then dip your hair in it, holding it there for a few minutes. Wash and rinse your hair as usual then apply conditioner. For best results, repeat the process several times. The more times you do it, the darker your hair becomes.

Black tea: This has a similar effect as coffee. Brew some strong back tea, and allow it to cool down then pour it into a bowl. Soak your clean hair in the black tea for 15 minutes. Repeat the process at an interval of ten to 15 minutes. Shampoo and condition the hair then towel dry it. Black tea method fades fast, so it is ideal to do it on a daily basis for at least two weeks. As your hair gets darker, you can gradually reduce it to once a week.

Henna powder: Read manufacturer’s instructions on how to prepare henna paste. Section your hair then apply the paste. Henna stains a lot so wear gloves as you apply it. Start at the base of your neck, as you apply, starting at the ends and working up to the roots. Ensure your entire head is saturated with henna paste. Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it on for an hour. You can then wash it out. Once completely rinsed, shampoo and condition as normal.

Cocoa: Mix some cocoa powder with water to form a thick paste. Rub the mixture into your clean hair. Cover your hair with shower cap and leave it on for half an hour. If you can keep it longer the better since the hair will be darker. Wash your hair as usual then apply a conditioner.

Mustard oil: Place some warm mustard oil in a bowl. The oil is capable of staining the skin and clothes, so wear some protective clothes and gloves as you apply it. Remember to apply petroleum jelly around your hairline, neck and ears. You can now apply the oil to your chair starting from the ends to the roots ensuring it is all saturated with the oil.

Gently massage the strands and your scalp. Wrap it in a shower cap and leave the oil on overnight or for two hours. Shampoo and condition the hair. Do not use conditioner since the hair will still have some oil.

Repeat the exercise at least three times a week for best results. If you experience any irritation on your scalp while applying, stop applying and rinse it off. It is advisable to perform a patch test before using it.

Sage: This herb can also darken your hair naturally. It, however, must be used weekly for the best results. Fill a pot with water then place a cup of sage in the water. Allow it to boil for some hours before straining the leaves. Apply the water to your hair, leaving it on for 30 minutes. Wash your hair as normal then condition.

Amla powder: Mix two teaspoons of the powder with one teaspoon of hair oil of your choice (coconut is the best) in a bowl. Add a little hot water into the mixture (just enough to cover the oil and amla). Stir until the mixture is smooth. Apply the paste to your clean hair then cover with a shower cap for an hour.

Shampoo and apply conditioner as usual before towel drying. Put a towel around your neck to prevent staining from amla. Repeat the process every week.