Cool Brown Hair with Henna, Indigo and Amla
Henna and indigo together make lovely brunette shades, but henna can leave a warm, reddish tone. Adding amla tones that red down, giving a cooler brown. Our Cool Brown Brunette kit includes all three, and this guide shows you how to use it.
What is in the kit
- Henna powder: a green powder made from the ground leaves of the henna plant
- Amla: dried amla fruit from the Emblica officinalis tree, already added to the henna powder
- Indigo powder: also a green powder, labelled so you do not mix them up
Store the powders out of direct sunlight, ideally somewhere cool and dark or in the fridge.
You will also need
- Gloves (not included)
- Warm water
- Cling film and a non-metallic bowl
- A friend to help, for the best coverage
Important: wear gloves throughout and cover your shoulders and the floor. Henna stains hands, ears, neck and shoulders, and indigo stains carpets and floors.
Step 1: Mix the henna and amla
Mix the henna and amla powder in a non-metallic bowl with enough warm water to make a thick paste. Stir vigorously so all the powder is mixed in. Cover and leave for 4 to 6 hours, then stir in more warm water until the paste is like yoghurt.
Step 2: Prepare your hair
Wash, dry and comb your hair so it can be sectioned easily.
Step 3: Mix the indigo and add it
Once the henna and amla have had 4 to 6 hours to release their dye, mix the indigo powder with water to a thick paste. Add it to the henna paste straight away and stir. Add water if needed to bring it back to a yoghurt consistency.
Step 4: Apply straight away
Apply the henna, amla and indigo paste immediately. Cover your hair thickly, all the way down to the roots. Wrap your hair in cling film and wipe off any paste on your forehead, ears and neck.
Step 5: Leave for 3 to 4 hours, then rinse
Leave the paste on for 3 to 4 hours, then wash it out.
Is my hair green? Indigo slowly oxidises and can give your hair a slight greenish tint in the light. This fades in around 2 days as your hair settles to its final colour.
Tips for the best colour
- Apply thickly and leave it on for as long as possible. Light, quick applications give poor results.
- Freeze any leftover paste straight away. Thaw it later to touch up your roots.
- It works on beards and moustaches too.
Looking for a warmer shade? See our guide to brunette shades with henna and indigo. Download the cool brown with amla instructions (PDF).
Products in this article
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