Hair Dye Instructions - Indigo Black
Instructions for Natural Black Hair Colour Using Henna & Indigo
Achieve a rich black colour naturally by using a two-step process with henna and indigo. This method ensures deep, long-lasting colour while nourishing the hair.
Step 1: Apply Henna
- Prepare the henna paste
- Mix henna powder with warm water to create a smooth, thick paste.
- For enhanced conditioning and dye release, add a few teaspoons of lemon juice or brewed tea.
- Cover and let the paste sit for 4–6 hours to allow the dye to activate.
Apply the henna
- Start with clean, dry hair and section it for even coverage.
- Apply the henna paste from root to tip, ensuring all strands are coated.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap and leave the henna on for 2–4 hours.
Rinse and dry
- Rinse out the henna thoroughly with water. Do not use shampoo at this stage.
- Towel dry your hair before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Apply Indigo
- Prepare the indigo paste
- Mix indigo powder with lukewarm water to form a smooth paste.
- Unlike henna, do not let the paste sit—it must be applied immediately for best results.
Apply the indigo
- Section your dry, henna-coloured hair and apply the indigo paste thoroughly.
- Cover all the areas previously coloured with henna.
Leave on
- Leave the indigo paste on for 1–2 hours for a deep black shade.
- Wearing a shower cap can help prevent spills.
Rinse and set the colour
- Rinse out the indigo with water or a mild, sulfate-free shampoo.
- For better colour retention, you can rinse with cold water.
- Avoid shampooing for at least 48 hours to allow the colour to deepen.
Alternative One-Step Method (for Dark Brown to Soft Black Hair)
For a simpler process, henna and indigo can be mixed together:
- Mix equal parts henna and indigo powder with water to form a smooth paste.
- Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes before applying.
- Apply to clean, dry hair, ensuring even coverage.
- Cover with a shower cap and leave it on for 3–4 hours.
- Rinse with water and avoid shampoo for 48 hours.
This method results in dark brown to soft black shades, depending on the ratio used.
Tips for Best Results
- Indigo does not work on its own—it requires a henna base to bind properly to the hair.
- Do not mix indigo with acidic liquids (like lemon juice) as this can weaken the dye.
- Apply indigo immediately after mixing, as it loses potency quickly.
- To deepen the black colour, repeat the indigo application after a few days.
- For longer-lasting colour, avoid frequent shampooing and use a sulfate-free shampoo.
- Moisturise your hair regularly with natural oils like coconut or argan oil to prevent dryness.
With regular use, this natural hair dyeing method strengthens, thickens, and enhances shine while providing beautiful, chemical-free colour.