Tartaric Acid

Tartaric acid for better henna dye release

Tartaric acid for henna is a mild, natural fruit acid found in grapes. Used when mixing henna or cassia, it helps release the dye and bind it to the hair for better coverage and longer-lasting results.

It also creates ashier, deeper brunette tones and, being mild, does not dry out the hair.

Why use tartaric acid for henna?

• Better dye release: helps henna and cassia give their best colour.
• Cooler tones: useful in brunette blends where you want less red.
• Gentle: an alternative to lemon juice that does not dry the hair.
• Easy to measure: a dry powder that keeps well.

How to use

Add 1 teaspoon (about 6g) to every 100g of henna or cassia powder, mixed in warm water.

1. Dissolve the tartaric acid in warm water.
2. Add the liquid to your henna or cassia powder a little at a time, stirring into a smooth, yoghurt-like paste.
3. Leave for dye release, then apply to clean hair as usual.

Results depend on your natural colour and the mix you use, so always do a strand test first.

Before you start

• Wash your hair with a simple shampoo and no conditioner, so the dye can bind evenly.
• Wear gloves and protect your hairline with a little oil or balm to avoid staining the skin.
• Do a strand test on a few hairs from your hairbrush to check the shade before the full application.

Tartaric acid or lemon juice?

Both help release the dye. Lemon juice can be drying, especially with regular use, so tartaric acid for henna is a good choice for dry hair or for anyone with a citrus allergy.

Storage

Keep the bag sealed in a cool, dry place.

Ingredients

Tartaric acid powder.

Size

30g bag.

See also: Fruit Acids | Indian Henna Powder | Copper Red and Strawberry Blond Hair with Henna and Cassia