Here’s Why I'm Not Using Henna On My Natural Hair Anymore
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| Photo by freepik |
UPDATE: Jan 2024
That wasn't my first time experimenting with henna. Back in spring 2016 I used light brown henna and got similar results as my second time; no color. Third time ain't the charm over here and I'm over it. Let me explain to you why I'm not henna-ing my hair anymore:
1. No Color
While there are benefits to henna treatments, many people add henna in their hair for the purposes of naturally coloring their hair. I returned natural in September 2010 and I started using box dye from August 2011-November 2012. I didn't have a negative experience with the dyes, but I wanted to focus on maintaining healthy hair and using natural products. I always love to change my looks and I thought a cute red would look good on me for the spring, so choosing a natural alternative was my only option.
I used Light Mountain's henna in "Red" last spring and not only did I use it properly, but I also added in extras like hibiscus, beet juice, pomegranate juice, and lemon juice and only a slight highlight in my hair appeared. Apparently henna for coloring hair only seems to work on light hair.
2. Too Messy
I don't have a problem with a mess, but too messy is when the line gets crossed. When I first tried light brown henna in 2016, the mess wasn't as messy, but last year when I used red henna, the mess was ridiculous especially since I used multiple products to "boost" the color. I kept the red henna in my hair overnight and of course the juice dripped onto my pillow. Never again.
Again, henna is great for naturally strengthening hair, but I feel there are other less expensive alternatives to naturally strengthen hair. Henna isn't too costly (unless you're adding in extras like I did), but I feel there are other ways to add some oomph to your curls. I wanted to add some color to my hair, but it didn't work on my hair so for me it was a total waste of time and money. A protein treatment for strengthening my curls would have sufficed for me.
4. Too Many Risks
Basically those are the main reasons I'm not using henna anymore. Healthy, but since I want a pop of color, it's done nothing for my hair. I have read suggestions of people stating pure henna from Indian stores is better than natural beauty boxed brands like Light Mountain, but I think I'm just get like Nicki Minaj and "hang it up, flatscreen" (y'all know I'm not a fan, but that's her best line). Please keep in mind these are my personal experiences with henna (specifically Light Mountain's "Light Brown" and "Red" henna mixes) and what didn't work for me may work for you.
I may just grab a box of natural dye and call it a day or find other alternatives. Otherwise, when it comes to henna, I'm done.
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| girl bye. |
What's your experience with henna? Does it work for you? Share below!
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Look of the Day: A Victorian Summer
Wearing early 1900's inspired clothing can be tricky. You don't want to look to old fashioned to the point the ensemble looks like a freakin' costume. I think I finally nailed it in this look. One of my fashion goals was to dabble into late 1800's/early 1900's inspired pieces without looking like I'm an extra on the set of "A Little Princess" staring Shirley Temple.
The Victorian Era was from 1837 to 1901 during the reign of Queen Victoria. What inspired me to dress like Victorians was my adoration for the frilly, ruffled blouses and cameo brooches of the era and my research on Black Victorians. Obviously the Black Victorians lived during the time of the British queen. These folk were a mix of immigrants, natives, free, and enslaved. Once slavery ended in Great Britain, Blacks began to assimilate to the mainstream culture of the land and adopted the dress and ways of the era. Although racism (and other social ills like poor working conditions, pollution, and defective healthcare) was still prevalent in Great Britain's post-slavery society, some Black Britons achieved success and wealth during the era in reference to many Black Victorian photographs showcasing those dressed to the nines.
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| Daniel Murray Collection/Library of Congress |
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| Daniel Murray Collection/Library of Congress |
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| Alvan S. Harper Collection/State Archives of Florida |
For my own Black Victorian influenced look, I added a modern to twist to the infamous era. My love for puff sleeve, white, floral laced blouses has grown tremendously! I styled a vintage Messages bowl collar blouse with some high waist Carriage Court khaki shorts, both from the 1980's with an antique vibe.
I accessorized this look as "Gilded Aged" as possible. Ditched my contacts for my Warby Parker "Louise" cat eye glasses, rocked a long pearl necklace, grey knee-high socks, vintage 80's Motion East belt, 80's pearl, gold plated earrings. 80's cream colored purse my bff got me, and a vintage pair of Massimo Baldi black leather heels adorned with a silver and gold plated geometric charm. I failed miserably at an attempt for a faux bang + bun style on my hair, so I curled my lil' bang to create an old fashioned pin curl look.
Instead of a simple nude lip to go with an already neutral face makeup, I added a pop of summertime color with Milani's "Violet Volt" lisptick.
I love how this look turned out. It may have a lot of pieces borrowed from the 1980's, but it really does compliment the late 19th century very well if I must say.
Make-up Products:
Photography: Warren Alexander Photography
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