The Natural Wonder of Henna: Top 12 Brands in India

Ah, henna! Known scientifically as Lawsonia inermis, this natural dye has graced the hair and skin of countless individuals for centuries. When we think of the rich tapestry of Indian culture, it’s impossible not to picture the vivid reds and browns of henna decorating the hands and feet of brides or transforming tresses into lustrous locks of colour.

Unlike the harsh, chemical-heavy dyes that flood the market, henna is Mother Nature’s gift for those desiring a dash of colour without the commitment or potential damage. Not only does henna envelop your hair in rich, warm tones, but it also nourishes, lending a softness and shine that’s hard to achieve otherwise. And for those concerned about those sneaky greys peeking through – henna’s got you covered, quite literally!

Did you know? Henna is more than just a pretty face. Packed with anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties, it’s been a staple in hair care routines for ages. And when paired with other natural ingredients like indigo, it becomes a chameleon, delivering everything from deep browns to jet blacks. The best part? No need for those pesky patch tests that chemical dyes demand. It’s gentle, it’s natural, and you can use it as often as your heart desires.

While henna is a semi-permanent dye and might fade a bit with washes, the radiant glow and health benefits remain. Eager to dive into the world of henna? Here are the top 12 henna brands India proudly offers.

How Henna Interacts with Your Hair:

Every strand of hair is an architectural marvel, comprising three distinct layers. Picture this: the outermost shell, known as the cuticle, is formed of flat, protective cells. Beneath this armour lies the cortex, the sanctum where the hair’s natural colour resides. In the heart of the strand is the medulla, a soft core. Most commercial, chemical-laden hair dyes are aggressive invaders. They breach the protective cuticle, delving into the cortex, often causing collateral damage. Henna, in its gentle wisdom, approaches differently. Instead of breaking barriers, it adds another – a nourishing coat that not only colours but infuses hair with softness and an enviable sheen.

Why Opt for Henna to Enrich Your Hair:

Boasts antimicrobial and anti-fungal traits, ensuring a healthy scalp and hair.
Actively combats and prevents dandruff.
When fused with other hair-loving ingredients, it turns into a nourishing potion for the scalp.
Bestows hair with a radiant shine and silkiness.
Is an all-natural, chemical-free route to vibrant hair colour.
Promotes hair growth and robustness.
Naturally conditions, revitalising every strand.
Mends brittle hair and curtails breakage.
Shields the hair by fortifying the cuticle layer.

Customise Your Henna Mixes – Add a Touch of Personal Flair:

Brews of tea or coffee can deepen the colour.
Beetroot adds a unique reddish tinge.
An egg white boosts shine and lustre.
Lemon juice is an age-old remedy against dandruff.
Hibiscus flower powder enriches the mix, adding to the richness of colour.
Amla powder helps in hair strengthening.
Olive oil hydrates and conditions.
Fenugreek seed paste aids in hair growth and adds a nice texture.
Shikakai cleanses the scalp, keeping it fresh.
Curd or yoghurt conditions hair, leaving it soft and manageable.

Mastering the Art of Colouring Hair with Henna

Preparation is Key:

Overnight Soaking: For optimal colour payoff and benefits, pre-soak henna in lukewarm water the night before. Stir until it’s smooth, free of clumps, resembling a mousse-like consistency.
The Right Tools: Don a pair of gloves during the application and rinse-off. While henna may fade from your skin, it lingers on nails. Ensure you’re draped in an old towel to catch any drips.
Skin Protection: Smooth Vaseline or another petroleum jelly around your hairline and the nape of your neck. This simple step wards off unsightly stains on the skin.

Application Tips:

Iron vs. Plastic: It’s advised to use an iron utensil (avoid steel) for soaking henna. The combination creates a darker pigment, covering greys with flair. If not, plastic or glass bowls suffice.
A Creamier Alternative: Swap water with curd in your henna mix, lending softness to your tresses.
Pre-Henna Wash: Cleanse your hair with shampoo a day prior to henna application. Steer clear of conditioners—they impede henna adherence. If you choose, apply henna on towel-dried, damp hair. This method simplifies and evens out applications.
Sectioning: Systematically part your hair into eight sections: four atop your head and four at the back. This ensures thorough coverage, omitting no strand. Twist each section and pin it securely. A shower cap can be draped over to prevent potential drips.

Post-Application Care:

Duration: Let the henna sit anywhere from 40 minutes to 3 hours. Find your sweet spot.
Rinse with Vigour: Once the wait’s over, cleanse thoroughly. Any lingering henna can lead to hair feeling parched and coarse. Continue rinsing until the water runs translucent, then some more for good measure.
Post-Henna Nourishment: Always follow with a conditioner post a henna wash. Not only does this seal the colour in, but it also mitigates the characteristic henna aroma. A finishing rinse with lemon-infused water combats odour and bestows shine.
Drying Tips: It’s wise to air-dry your hair. However, if a dryer is essential, opt for a gentle heat setting.
Patience Pays: Resist washing your hair for at least two days post the henna session. For those apprehensive about DIY, consult a professional.

What to Avoid:

Steer clear of products labelled ‘Henna-based hair colour’ or henna powders boasting multiple shades.
Pure henna is solely derived from the herb “Lawsonia inermis”. Always scrutinise ingredient lists before making a purchase. Authenticity ensures the best results and a genuine henna experience.

12 Best Henna brands in India:

Godrej Nupur Henna:

A trailblazer in the henna industry.
Infused with an array of natural components like brahmi, shikakai, amla, and hibiscus.
Expect vibrant hair colour, thorough grey coverage, and a nutrient boost.

VLCC Ayurvedic Henna:

A harmony of henna leaves, musk root, and Indian Gooseberry.
Enriched with vital proteins, vitamins C and E.
Guarantees radiant colour, hair conditioning, and won’t break the bank.

Biotique Bio Henna Fresh Powder for Dark Hair:

A timeless blend: henna leaves, mango kernel, and arjun tree bark.
Delivers a deep brown hue, combined with a lustrous finish.

Kama Ayurveda Organic Henna Powder:

The epitome of purity; 100% natural.
Bathes hair in a warm, brownish-orange hue.

Richfeel Henna:

Hair’s best friend brings smoothness and gloss.
Amplifies natural hair colour without any dramatic changes.
When paired with a conditioner, say goodbye to henna-induced frizz.

Shahnaz Husain’s Henna Precious Herb:

The purity of henna leaves, enhanced with select herbs.
Achieve vivacious hair colour, conditioning, and nourishment in one go.

Khadi Natural Herbal Henna:

Promise a touch of gold for your tresses.
Ensures hair remains soft, bouncy, and exhibits a reddish tinge.
Mixable with various hair-loving ingredients for customised care.

Nature’s Essence Henna Powder:

Your ticket to radiant and silky hair.
Strictly no ammonia or peroxides.
A herbal concoction that gracefully masks greys.

Habib’s Henna:

Grey strands don’t stand a chance.
Doubles up as a nurturing hair pack, ensuring sleekness and shine.

Banjara’s Natural Henna:

Your recipe for glistening, manageable hair.
Delivers straightened effects, minimal frizz, and comprehensive grey coverage.

Ayur Henna:

Imparts a delightful shade to hair.
The go-to for grey camouflage, resulting in soft, smooth locks.

Patanjali Herbal Mehandi:

An entirely herbal formula that’s gentle on your hair.
Bursting with ingredients that adore your hair, ensuring deep conditioning and impeccable colour.

Choosing a henna brand is like picking a personal stylist – it’s about finding the right fit for your unique hair needs. Here’s hoping this list helps you find your perfect match!