How to Make Your Own Hair Dye
How to Make Your Own Hair Dye
Over the years, the concept of hair dying has become increasingly popular. Whether you want a dramatic or subtle change, the store-bought options are endless. There is a problem with these store-bought hair dyes, though. They contain large amounts of chemicals, which you may not want on your head. Luckily you can create your own hair dye at home, using ingredients that are chemical-free and much less harsh. The ingredients that you need to create your own hair dye will depend largely on the shade you desire, and can possibly be found right in your own kitchen. Keep in mind the results will not be as substantial as with traditional hair dye, but you will feel good knowing no chemicals are being used.
How to Make Blonde Hair Dye
There are a few different natural hair dye options for blonde hair. One uses lemon juice and chamomile tea. All you have to do is mix 2 to 3 tablespoons of lemon juice with two cups of strongly-brewed chamomile tea. Make sure the two are blended well and apply to hair after shampooing. Ring out excess and cover hair with a clear shower cap if possible, and leave the mixture on for thirty minutes or so. To speed up the lightening process, sit out in the sun or under a blow-dryer on low to medium heat while you wait.
Another recipe for blonde hair dye uses six chamomile tea bags, 1/2 cup plain yogurt, and five drops of lavender essential oil. Bring two cups of water to a boil, then add the tea bags and steep for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the tea bags and add the yogurt and essential oil to the tea mixture. Apply to hair as thoroughly as possible, avoiding the scalp if you can. Cover hair with a shower cap, and leave on your hair for 30 to 40 minutes. Again, sitting in the sun or under a hair dryer will speed up the lightening process. Be sure to rinse thoroughly when time is up.
If you choose to use these recipes, you should remember that they are best for hair that is already somewhat blonde. They will lighten dark blonde to light brown hair, but the process may have to be repeated several times until a noticeable result is achieved. If you use these recipes on darker hair, you may get coppery results.
How to Make Brunette Hair Dye
If you are looking to give your hair a shot of dark color, there are a couple ways to make it happen. The first recipe for brunette hair dye uses plain old black coffee or tea. Just brew a couple strong cups of either, or a mixture of both. Let the coffee or tea cool and then apply to clean hair. Ring out the excess and cover hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap. Leave on hair for 20 to 30 minutes, then rinse well. Your hair should have some rich brown tones when you are done. Repeat this method as often as you wish.
Hair can also get a brown boost from a recipe that uses walnut husks. All you have to do is boil 1 to 2 cups of crushed walnut husks in a saucepan with four cups of water. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 30 to 35 minutes. Remove from the heat, and let the mixture steep and cool for an hour or so. Strain the walnut pieces out and use the liquid as your dye. Apply to your hair and let it sit for half an hour. Rinse well and follow with an apple cider vinegar rinse for shine.
How to Make Red Hair Dye
Many people would love to have red hair at least once in their lifetime. You can give yourself a shot of red color with a recipe that uses rosehips and beet juice. Just combine 1/2 cup rosehips with 1/2 cup beet juice, along with 2 cups of water. Place the ingredients in a saucepan and simmer until a strong tea forms, usually about thirty minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture steep another half hour. Next, strain the mixture and apply the liquid to clean hair. Leave it on your hair for 30 to 45 minutes, then rinse well. Reapply as often as desired. Rosehips and beet juice can both be found at health food stores.
Gray Coverage
If you would like a natural way to cover stubborn gray hair, sage should do the trick. Just mix 1/2 cup of dried sage with two cups of water in a saucepan. Simmer the mixture for thirty minutes or so, and then let it steep for 2 to 3 hours. Strain and apply to gray areas using a spray bottle. Leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse. Repeat this regularly and gray hair should begin to fade after a couple weeks.
These recipes for hair dye will allow you to experiment with your hair color without exposing yourself to harsh chemicals. They will also save you money, as hair dye in stores can be pricey. Be sure to have fun and always use caution when using hair dye. Irritation can still occur even though these recipes are natural. If any redness or irritation develops, discontinue use immediately.