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- Thread starter sweetcocoa
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Thanks mahalialee for the links, especially the henna and the indigo link. The models hair is gorgeous. I will definately try this /images/graemlins/smile.gif
I'm sitting here now with my henna treatment in my hair. This time I added vitamin c ester powder(thanks hada), cornsilk tea and aloe vera powder to my batch with oils. I'll post how this turned out as well.
I'm sitting here now with my henna treatment in my hair. This time I added vitamin c ester powder(thanks hada), cornsilk tea and aloe vera powder to my batch with oils. I'll post how this turned out as well.
sweetcocoa
Active Member
Okya, I'm doing my hair tomorrow...
Armyqt, how did you make your herbal tea?
Can I get the Lekair conditioner at Sally's?
And what kind of yogurt did you use?
I already have the AO GPB...
I want to do this right., so how soon after the first treatment can I do the 2nd one?
Thanks Ladies /images/graemlins/grin.gif
Armyqt, how did you make your herbal tea?
Can I get the Lekair conditioner at Sally's?
And what kind of yogurt did you use?
I already have the AO GPB...
I want to do this right., so how soon after the first treatment can I do the 2nd one?
Thanks Ladies /images/graemlins/grin.gif
Jade posted this on Honi 01's "white girl head toss" thread. I simply copied what she said and placed it on this thread so people can see her routine and what she did. Some people may not know to look for her henna post under that other thread and essentially what she had to say is posted below.
"Iris,
You know I did not see this 5th page....I must need some rest
Yes, I really enjoyed the henna treatment. My friend Lindsay did the application on my entire head. Last Thursday, we did a section test from roots to the ends. I really wanted to make sure I would not have any type of scalp reaction and then on Friday, Lindsay did my entire head...she was really patient and it turned out great. I will be enlisting her again in about three or four months. I do not foresee any problems at this point. My hair has reacted most positively!
1. what brand of henna did you use?
I used the neutral powdered henna from Mountain Rose Herbs.
2. how did you mix it? did you add any oils, etc. to your mix?
Used the same formula for the section test and my entire head. I added plenty of blackstrap molasses, olive oil, macadamia oil, and AO GPB and Honeysuckle Rose conditioners. I mixed the "batter" with a wooden spoon. For the complete application, I mixed with a wooden spoon and then used a hand mixer to make sure it was thoroughly mixed. From what I have heard, the latter is not a great idea..the metal deal Ooops! But, no probs.
3. how long did you keep it on? did you use heat? did you rollerset or airdry your hair?
I left it on for about 2 hours, both for the section test and the complete application. No heat. I did the airdrying mostly, but I did use my diffuser at points. **I was a bit impatient..wanted to see what my hair was going to look like when dry.** No rollers...oh somebody find me some HUGE rollers...I am so envious these days
4. do you plan on continuing to use it or only occasionally?
I am planning on doing another treatment in about 3-4 months, probably 3. I want to see how my hair reacts over the long-run. So, basically, if I notice anything weird, I will simply decrease the frequency. Otherwise, I will be putting the henna treatment into my hair care routine
Iris, here's what my fears were. I wondered how my scalp would react and I wanted someone who was patient and who I trusted to do my ENTIRE head. I was so tempted to do it myself and maybe in the future I will try, but I know it would be a mess.
My other fear was making a lousy batch which dried out my hair to a broomstick. I thought "oh no I do not want to inject dryness back into this head after I've gotten it to be a non-issue." In my opinion, it was the blackstrap molasses which made all the difference. It made the mixture very pliable in terms of the application and the sugars really added moisture.
I wanted to ask you something about what you use at the scalp area to spread. Lindsay used an old paddle brush I had to spread in the area and it worked great. She said to me that maybe the next time we do it, we should use a paint brush which people use when they apply color. Do you think this would make the application easier?
Lindsay was very patient in going through my hair. She sectioned my hair completely and went through in minute fashion to make sure all of the hair was covered. I know I could not have done this myself.
Oh, last thing. I do love the gloss, silkiness and manageability...The sealing is simply awesome
~Jade~ "
</font><blockquote><font class="small">In reply to:</font><hr />
Jade said:
I wanted to ask you something about what you use at the scalp area to spread. Lindsay used an old paddle brush I had to spread in the area and it worked great. She said to me that maybe the next time we do it, we should use a paint brush which people use when they apply color. Do you think this would make the application easier?
[/ QUOTE ]
Jade since I use hennalucent in neutral, I simply use my fingers to do my entire head. Lindsay's application method was just fine. I think a paint brush would be fine if you get the batter to a syrup-like consistency.
Once more I'm glad you had a positive experience with the henna and the shine don't hurt either girl! /images/graemlins/grin.gif
"Iris,
You know I did not see this 5th page....I must need some rest
Yes, I really enjoyed the henna treatment. My friend Lindsay did the application on my entire head. Last Thursday, we did a section test from roots to the ends. I really wanted to make sure I would not have any type of scalp reaction and then on Friday, Lindsay did my entire head...she was really patient and it turned out great. I will be enlisting her again in about three or four months. I do not foresee any problems at this point. My hair has reacted most positively!
1. what brand of henna did you use?
I used the neutral powdered henna from Mountain Rose Herbs.
2. how did you mix it? did you add any oils, etc. to your mix?
Used the same formula for the section test and my entire head. I added plenty of blackstrap molasses, olive oil, macadamia oil, and AO GPB and Honeysuckle Rose conditioners. I mixed the "batter" with a wooden spoon. For the complete application, I mixed with a wooden spoon and then used a hand mixer to make sure it was thoroughly mixed. From what I have heard, the latter is not a great idea..the metal deal Ooops! But, no probs.
3. how long did you keep it on? did you use heat? did you rollerset or airdry your hair?
I left it on for about 2 hours, both for the section test and the complete application. No heat. I did the airdrying mostly, but I did use my diffuser at points. **I was a bit impatient..wanted to see what my hair was going to look like when dry.** No rollers...oh somebody find me some HUGE rollers...I am so envious these days
4. do you plan on continuing to use it or only occasionally?
I am planning on doing another treatment in about 3-4 months, probably 3. I want to see how my hair reacts over the long-run. So, basically, if I notice anything weird, I will simply decrease the frequency. Otherwise, I will be putting the henna treatment into my hair care routine
Iris, here's what my fears were. I wondered how my scalp would react and I wanted someone who was patient and who I trusted to do my ENTIRE head. I was so tempted to do it myself and maybe in the future I will try, but I know it would be a mess.
My other fear was making a lousy batch which dried out my hair to a broomstick. I thought "oh no I do not want to inject dryness back into this head after I've gotten it to be a non-issue." In my opinion, it was the blackstrap molasses which made all the difference. It made the mixture very pliable in terms of the application and the sugars really added moisture.
I wanted to ask you something about what you use at the scalp area to spread. Lindsay used an old paddle brush I had to spread in the area and it worked great. She said to me that maybe the next time we do it, we should use a paint brush which people use when they apply color. Do you think this would make the application easier?
Lindsay was very patient in going through my hair. She sectioned my hair completely and went through in minute fashion to make sure all of the hair was covered. I know I could not have done this myself.
Oh, last thing. I do love the gloss, silkiness and manageability...The sealing is simply awesome
~Jade~ "
</font><blockquote><font class="small">In reply to:</font><hr />
Jade said:
I wanted to ask you something about what you use at the scalp area to spread. Lindsay used an old paddle brush I had to spread in the area and it worked great. She said to me that maybe the next time we do it, we should use a paint brush which people use when they apply color. Do you think this would make the application easier?
[/ QUOTE ]
Jade since I use hennalucent in neutral, I simply use my fingers to do my entire head. Lindsay's application method was just fine. I think a paint brush would be fine if you get the batter to a syrup-like consistency.
Once more I'm glad you had a positive experience with the henna and the shine don't hurt either girl! /images/graemlins/grin.gif
CynamonKis
Active Member
Hi--I got all of the ingredients for the neutral henna application but should I WAIT until my hair's health is back to 100% before applying the henna?? My current regiment has drastically reduced the chemical-induced breakage I had experienced but my hair is still weak -- will the henna improve this situation or should I wait until my hair is back to full strength before applying the henna?
Armyqt
New Member
</font><blockquote><font class="small">In reply to:</font><hr />
sweetcocoa said:
Okya, I'm doing my hair tomorrow...
Armyqt, how did you make your herbal tea?
Can I get the Lekair conditioner at Sally's?
And what kind of yogurt did you use?
I already have the AO GPB...
I want to do this right., so how soon after the first treatment can I do the 2nd one?
Thanks Ladies /images/graemlins/grin.gif
[/ QUOTE ]
Sweetcocoa you can get the Lekair Choesterol from Sally's. It's green in color I guess because of the Aloe. Pick up a few packets of the Hask Henna and Placenta conditioner. To use either in the mixture or after or both ways. I liked this conditioner a lot. And it's cheap.
For the tea, I boiled together rosemary, sage and peppermint and let that sit till it was warm. Once warm I mixed it together first, probably less than 1/2 cup until I got the thick consistency. I just used maybe about 2tbl of dannon yogurt. I was very generous with the castor oil, cause It'sgreat at softening the hair.
Based on what everyonehere has recommended, I'm waiting 1 week btwn each application. I'll do them weekly for one month and then once a month or every 6 weeks.
I've seen many different ways to apply this henna, but I think the key is adding the oils to combat the dryness. Next time, I'll probably skip the protein and just add the cholesterol, just to see how that works. Since henna is already like a protein, I don't want to overdo it.
Hope this helps, and please keep us posted. /images/graemlins/smile.gif
sweetcocoa said:
Okya, I'm doing my hair tomorrow...
Armyqt, how did you make your herbal tea?
Can I get the Lekair conditioner at Sally's?
And what kind of yogurt did you use?
I already have the AO GPB...
I want to do this right., so how soon after the first treatment can I do the 2nd one?
Thanks Ladies /images/graemlins/grin.gif
[/ QUOTE ]
Sweetcocoa you can get the Lekair Choesterol from Sally's. It's green in color I guess because of the Aloe. Pick up a few packets of the Hask Henna and Placenta conditioner. To use either in the mixture or after or both ways. I liked this conditioner a lot. And it's cheap.
For the tea, I boiled together rosemary, sage and peppermint and let that sit till it was warm. Once warm I mixed it together first, probably less than 1/2 cup until I got the thick consistency. I just used maybe about 2tbl of dannon yogurt. I was very generous with the castor oil, cause It'sgreat at softening the hair.
Based on what everyonehere has recommended, I'm waiting 1 week btwn each application. I'll do them weekly for one month and then once a month or every 6 weeks.
I've seen many different ways to apply this henna, but I think the key is adding the oils to combat the dryness. Next time, I'll probably skip the protein and just add the cholesterol, just to see how that works. Since henna is already like a protein, I don't want to overdo it.
Hope this helps, and please keep us posted. /images/graemlins/smile.gif
</font><blockquote><font class="small">In reply to:</font><hr />
will the henna improve this situation or should I wait until my hair is back to full strength before applying the henna?
[/ QUOTE ]
henna is a mild protein so it will help to strengthen your hair. And remember, since it is a protein you may experience a little stiffness during your treatment. There are alot of recipes that were given to combat this, just read through the posts or links. Also, I don't see how the oils can do anything but help your hair since they are carrier and essential oils being used to combat the dryness. Finally, since hennalucent can be used for all chemical services, that brand is your safest bet to buy being that it contains no metallic salts to interfere with any chemical process you may have had /images/graemlins/smile.gif
will the henna improve this situation or should I wait until my hair is back to full strength before applying the henna?
[/ QUOTE ]
henna is a mild protein so it will help to strengthen your hair. And remember, since it is a protein you may experience a little stiffness during your treatment. There are alot of recipes that were given to combat this, just read through the posts or links. Also, I don't see how the oils can do anything but help your hair since they are carrier and essential oils being used to combat the dryness. Finally, since hennalucent can be used for all chemical services, that brand is your safest bet to buy being that it contains no metallic salts to interfere with any chemical process you may have had /images/graemlins/smile.gif
Hi,
I am new to this forum but a long long long time henna user and lover.
Just want you to be aware that using a product called and labelled "neutral" henna doesn't necessarily mean that you are using henna at all. A number of things that are packaged, labelled and called "neutral henna" are amla and myrobalan. The other thing that is called "neutral henna" is really just old natural henna that has been exposed to the elements such that the component that creates pigment is destroyed. Basically that is exposure to light, air and heat over time. This exposure to light, air and heat reduces or destroys the dyeing capacity of henna. I does not reduce or destroy henna's benefits to the hair. The problem with "neutral henna" that results from old abused henna is simply that sometimes all the pigment is not gone and some residual orangish color may result on hair. If your hair is dark, that won't even show up. Natural henna has a different conditioning benefit from amla and myrobalan that are referred to as neutral henna. So if you are using a product that is actually amla or myrobalan but being called "neutral henna" you really aren't experiencing the benefits of henna at all.
Natural henna will do two things to your hair. It will color it because it is a natural dye. And it will condition it. The benefits of the conditioning is that it strengthens, adds shine, loosens the curl, detangles, softens, and also conditions the scalp.
The only thing that is needed to get henna to do that is liquid, warmth and time. The basics for using henna are:
Recipe:
100 grams of henna powder for every 1 foot of hair
lemon juice to release the dye in the henna
Process:
Mix henna powder with enough lemon juice concentrate (you can dilute this no more than 50/50 with water) sufficient to make a paste that is thick like thick brownie mix. You want your paste to be thick enough that you can scoop it up with your fingers without it being runny. Cover your paste with plastic wrap and then foil. Allow to sit between 4 and 8 hours in a place that will maintain its temperature between 75 and 85 degrees. (I sit mine on a warm spot on my TV) Uncover and stir released dye (a dark liquid or film that will be on top of the paste) back into your paste. Your paste is now ready to be used on your hair.
Apply paste to hair. Cover hair with plastic cap. Put a bit of tissue around the edge of the cap to keep the liquid from running out. Cover again with a towel. Keep on hair between 4 and 8 hours. Rinse hair thoroughly until water runs clear. Then rinse over and over and over again. There is no need to shampoo or add additional conditioner. Comb and style as usual.
Application of a real neutral henna is the same. Just mix the neutral henna with hot water and allow to cool. Then follow the same process for applying and keeping on your hair...rinsing and styling.
Because getting real "neutral henna" is so tricky, I use Lotus Powder instead. It provides the same benefits as henna without adding color to the hair. That is what I would suggest if you are looking for henna's benefits and not the coloring. Lotus powder is mixed with hot water, covered and allowed to sit for 2 hours. After sitting it should be the consistency of pancake mix. Apply to hair working in from roots to ends. Massage into hair and scalp. Add a bit more water to spread evenly thoughout your hair. Cover with plastic cap. Cover with towel. Allow to remain on hair for 2 to 4 to 8 hours. Depends upon how much you want to pamper yourself. Rinse out thorough and rinse and rinse and rinse some more. Comb and style as usual because there is no need to shampoo and further condition.
If you hair has been damaged from chemicals, don't wait, rush and get some lotus powder. You don't have to worry about it damaging your hair. It will begin the healing process for your hair. It is going to nourish your hair.
I would strongly suggest not adding the things I have seen mentioned here to your henna, "neutral henna" or lotus powder. Bunches of oils, creams, coffees, teas etc., simply complicate the process and can actually be counter productive to the natural effects of the henna or lotus powder.
Hope this helps.
HennaJoy
I am new to this forum but a long long long time henna user and lover.
Just want you to be aware that using a product called and labelled "neutral" henna doesn't necessarily mean that you are using henna at all. A number of things that are packaged, labelled and called "neutral henna" are amla and myrobalan. The other thing that is called "neutral henna" is really just old natural henna that has been exposed to the elements such that the component that creates pigment is destroyed. Basically that is exposure to light, air and heat over time. This exposure to light, air and heat reduces or destroys the dyeing capacity of henna. I does not reduce or destroy henna's benefits to the hair. The problem with "neutral henna" that results from old abused henna is simply that sometimes all the pigment is not gone and some residual orangish color may result on hair. If your hair is dark, that won't even show up. Natural henna has a different conditioning benefit from amla and myrobalan that are referred to as neutral henna. So if you are using a product that is actually amla or myrobalan but being called "neutral henna" you really aren't experiencing the benefits of henna at all.
Natural henna will do two things to your hair. It will color it because it is a natural dye. And it will condition it. The benefits of the conditioning is that it strengthens, adds shine, loosens the curl, detangles, softens, and also conditions the scalp.
The only thing that is needed to get henna to do that is liquid, warmth and time. The basics for using henna are:
Recipe:
100 grams of henna powder for every 1 foot of hair
lemon juice to release the dye in the henna
Process:
Mix henna powder with enough lemon juice concentrate (you can dilute this no more than 50/50 with water) sufficient to make a paste that is thick like thick brownie mix. You want your paste to be thick enough that you can scoop it up with your fingers without it being runny. Cover your paste with plastic wrap and then foil. Allow to sit between 4 and 8 hours in a place that will maintain its temperature between 75 and 85 degrees. (I sit mine on a warm spot on my TV) Uncover and stir released dye (a dark liquid or film that will be on top of the paste) back into your paste. Your paste is now ready to be used on your hair.
Apply paste to hair. Cover hair with plastic cap. Put a bit of tissue around the edge of the cap to keep the liquid from running out. Cover again with a towel. Keep on hair between 4 and 8 hours. Rinse hair thoroughly until water runs clear. Then rinse over and over and over again. There is no need to shampoo or add additional conditioner. Comb and style as usual.
Application of a real neutral henna is the same. Just mix the neutral henna with hot water and allow to cool. Then follow the same process for applying and keeping on your hair...rinsing and styling.
Because getting real "neutral henna" is so tricky, I use Lotus Powder instead. It provides the same benefits as henna without adding color to the hair. That is what I would suggest if you are looking for henna's benefits and not the coloring. Lotus powder is mixed with hot water, covered and allowed to sit for 2 hours. After sitting it should be the consistency of pancake mix. Apply to hair working in from roots to ends. Massage into hair and scalp. Add a bit more water to spread evenly thoughout your hair. Cover with plastic cap. Cover with towel. Allow to remain on hair for 2 to 4 to 8 hours. Depends upon how much you want to pamper yourself. Rinse out thorough and rinse and rinse and rinse some more. Comb and style as usual because there is no need to shampoo and further condition.
If you hair has been damaged from chemicals, don't wait, rush and get some lotus powder. You don't have to worry about it damaging your hair. It will begin the healing process for your hair. It is going to nourish your hair.
I would strongly suggest not adding the things I have seen mentioned here to your henna, "neutral henna" or lotus powder. Bunches of oils, creams, coffees, teas etc., simply complicate the process and can actually be counter productive to the natural effects of the henna or lotus powder.
Hope this helps.
HennaJoy
Hi,
Actually, a natural henna or natural herbal/henna product should never make hair dry, brittle, hard or stiff. When that happens there's typically one of two things going on.
One the product is not actually henna at all. There are lots and lots of products on the market now with "henna" in the name that really have nothing to do with henna. They have just a bit of henna in them...sufficient to put henna on the products name. But does not provide the benefits of henna at all. You will see those all day long at the beauty supply houses, drug stores, grocery stores etc. The products that are actually henna will say that they are 100% henna (lawsonia Inermis). Or if they are an herbal/henna, they will say something like "henna and natural herb". The ingredients list should contain only henna and in the case of a herbal/henna product two ingredients at the most.
Two, the hair has been chemically treated previously and the chemical treatment and the henna are not compatible. This happens sometimes but not always. The easiest way to know if your previously chemically treated hair is ready for henna is with a harvested hair test. Don't test the hair on your head. Test the hair that is in a comb or brush with the henna. If the outcome is desirable, then the hair is sufficiently rid of the chemicals to be able to take the henna. If the outcome is less than desireable, wait a month and try the harvest test again.
Another problem I am hearing about a lot lately is that people are using lot and lots of extra stuff to their henna that is not at all necessary and can actually be counter productive to getting the best from the henna. Actually, all of the teas, herbs, oils, yogurts etc., should be eliminated from the henna recipe since the henna does not need it at all. That is just extra stuff. And often the outcome that people say they don't like about henna is not the henna at all, but instead the effect of some of the other stuff added to the henna.
What I recommend is that folks learn to mix and use henna in its most basic form. After learning how to do that and experiencing the benefits of henna, then if one wishes to add something, they will know what they are adding some to. Like I sometimes will use the combination of lemon juice concentrate and rose water as the liquid for my henna paste because the rose water just smells so great. But it really is necessary to understand the benefits of henna in its most basic form and recipe application before elaborating on it.
Actually, a natural henna or natural herbal/henna product should never make hair dry, brittle, hard or stiff. When that happens there's typically one of two things going on.
One the product is not actually henna at all. There are lots and lots of products on the market now with "henna" in the name that really have nothing to do with henna. They have just a bit of henna in them...sufficient to put henna on the products name. But does not provide the benefits of henna at all. You will see those all day long at the beauty supply houses, drug stores, grocery stores etc. The products that are actually henna will say that they are 100% henna (lawsonia Inermis). Or if they are an herbal/henna, they will say something like "henna and natural herb". The ingredients list should contain only henna and in the case of a herbal/henna product two ingredients at the most.
Two, the hair has been chemically treated previously and the chemical treatment and the henna are not compatible. This happens sometimes but not always. The easiest way to know if your previously chemically treated hair is ready for henna is with a harvested hair test. Don't test the hair on your head. Test the hair that is in a comb or brush with the henna. If the outcome is desirable, then the hair is sufficiently rid of the chemicals to be able to take the henna. If the outcome is less than desireable, wait a month and try the harvest test again.
Another problem I am hearing about a lot lately is that people are using lot and lots of extra stuff to their henna that is not at all necessary and can actually be counter productive to getting the best from the henna. Actually, all of the teas, herbs, oils, yogurts etc., should be eliminated from the henna recipe since the henna does not need it at all. That is just extra stuff. And often the outcome that people say they don't like about henna is not the henna at all, but instead the effect of some of the other stuff added to the henna.
What I recommend is that folks learn to mix and use henna in its most basic form. After learning how to do that and experiencing the benefits of henna, then if one wishes to add something, they will know what they are adding some to. Like I sometimes will use the combination of lemon juice concentrate and rose water as the liquid for my henna paste because the rose water just smells so great. But it really is necessary to understand the benefits of henna in its most basic form and recipe application before elaborating on it.
Oh my...you ran into the "just because henna is in the name doesn't mean that it is henna" problem. There are sooooooooo many products out now with henna in the name that are full of lots of other stuff and very little henna if any. When you use a 100% natural henna you will see a difference with the first application. You will notice softness, stronger hair, shine and hair that has a more loose curl and detangled hair.
Most of the products found at the beauty supply stores with henna in the name are not really henna products. They are products with a smidgen of henna in them. You can't get the benefit of henna from them. In fact, most of the other ingredients in them are counter to the benefits of henna.
The henna you want will indicate that it is 100% natural henna and there will be no other ingredients. The label should indicate only henna (lawsonia inermis). It will be in powder form. You will have to mix it into a paste for application to the hair.
You will also want to be careful when adding other things to your henna paste. A lot of commercial conditioners may well have ingredients that reduce the benefit of the henna. Henna is a conditioner and will really not need to have another conditioner added to it or used after it.
You may want to try a 100% natural henna next time. Remember though, henna is a colorant and conditioner. So you will see some reddening of the hair. If you don't want the color, I would suggest the use of lotus powder. Lotus powder provides all of the conditioning benefits of henna without adding color. It also comes in powder forum and must be mixed into a paste for application.
Hope this is helpful.
HennaJoy
Most of the products found at the beauty supply stores with henna in the name are not really henna products. They are products with a smidgen of henna in them. You can't get the benefit of henna from them. In fact, most of the other ingredients in them are counter to the benefits of henna.
The henna you want will indicate that it is 100% natural henna and there will be no other ingredients. The label should indicate only henna (lawsonia inermis). It will be in powder form. You will have to mix it into a paste for application to the hair.
You will also want to be careful when adding other things to your henna paste. A lot of commercial conditioners may well have ingredients that reduce the benefit of the henna. Henna is a conditioner and will really not need to have another conditioner added to it or used after it.
You may want to try a 100% natural henna next time. Remember though, henna is a colorant and conditioner. So you will see some reddening of the hair. If you don't want the color, I would suggest the use of lotus powder. Lotus powder provides all of the conditioning benefits of henna without adding color. It also comes in powder forum and must be mixed into a paste for application.
Hope this is helpful.
HennaJoy
Hennalucent is not really a henna product. It falls more in the category of products that have a little henna in them. Typically, they don't provide the benefits of natural henna. In fact, from feedback I have received, they tend to react very differently from henna. If you are considering switching to henna, I would recommend that you actually use a 100% natural henna. It will come in powder form only and the only ingredients listed will be henna (lawsonia inermis). Henna will soften your hair and reduce shrinkage and detangle while it nourishes your hair and scalp.
Natural henna will also color your hair because it is one of those herbs that is also a natural dye. So if you want the benefit of henna but not the coloring. I would recommend lotus powder because lotus powder provides all of the conditioning benefits of henna without adding any color to the hair. If the color of the hair that natural henna is applied to is dark brown or black, the color results will primarily reddish highlights initially and then reddish brown coloring at peak color that results over time with repeated application.
Hope you get natural henna powder or the lotus powder to try. I think the benefits you are looking for will be best obtained with these two products.
HennaJoy
Natural henna will also color your hair because it is one of those herbs that is also a natural dye. So if you want the benefit of henna but not the coloring. I would recommend lotus powder because lotus powder provides all of the conditioning benefits of henna without adding any color to the hair. If the color of the hair that natural henna is applied to is dark brown or black, the color results will primarily reddish highlights initially and then reddish brown coloring at peak color that results over time with repeated application.
Hope you get natural henna powder or the lotus powder to try. I think the benefits you are looking for will be best obtained with these two products.
HennaJoy
Hi CrulyCrly,
I don't know how to put a link in. But here is the website.
EveryDay Mehndi
http://www.everydayhenna.com
Just so you know, I not only have used henna on my hair for lots of years, am a henna artist, dye fabric and paint fabric with henna, raise a henna plant and am just an all around henna enthusiast and lover, I am also a supplier of henna and lots of other natural products incuding lotus powder. The website I referred you to is my website because I import the lotus powder and really don't know anyone else carring it. Hope you don't see this as an ad. Because I strongly believe in and use everything I sell. So information I provide is not about selling a product. It is because I searched far and wide to obtain or develop the products I sell in search of solutions to the problems I have had with hair and skin. So in that context. Feel free to check out the website in search of the lotus powder. If you scroll down the homepage you will see the listing for Herbal Shampoo & Conditioning Powder (or something like that. It is the second listing under "New Products" on the home page. That link will take you to the Lotus Powder Plus which can be gotten either as just lotus powder or with the plus added in.
HennaJoy
I don't know how to put a link in. But here is the website.
EveryDay Mehndi
http://www.everydayhenna.com
Just so you know, I not only have used henna on my hair for lots of years, am a henna artist, dye fabric and paint fabric with henna, raise a henna plant and am just an all around henna enthusiast and lover, I am also a supplier of henna and lots of other natural products incuding lotus powder. The website I referred you to is my website because I import the lotus powder and really don't know anyone else carring it. Hope you don't see this as an ad. Because I strongly believe in and use everything I sell. So information I provide is not about selling a product. It is because I searched far and wide to obtain or develop the products I sell in search of solutions to the problems I have had with hair and skin. So in that context. Feel free to check out the website in search of the lotus powder. If you scroll down the homepage you will see the listing for Herbal Shampoo & Conditioning Powder (or something like that. It is the second listing under "New Products" on the home page. That link will take you to the Lotus Powder Plus which can be gotten either as just lotus powder or with the plus added in.
HennaJoy
sassygirl125
Professional PJ
</font><blockquote><font class="small">In reply to:</font><hr />
Where does one get lotus powder?
[/ QUOTE ]
Go to everydayhenna.com and click on the 'EveryDay Mehndi Herbal Products for Health and Beauty' link.
Where does one get lotus powder?
[/ QUOTE ]
Go to everydayhenna.com and click on the 'EveryDay Mehndi Herbal Products for Health and Beauty' link.
Armyqt
New Member
Hello Hennajoy /images/graemlins/wave.gif. Welcome to the board. /images/graemlins/smile.gif
It was very interesting reading your posts. It seems you are very knowledgeable about henna. I personally don't know a whole lot about henna since, I'm new to the whole henna experience. When I did my research on the Internet, I came across many sites (Indian), which discussed the effects of henna on the hair. One of the things that was warned against was the frequent using of henna, as it tends to dry the hair out. To my knowledge, all of these sites were using pure henna. So I assumed that was a natural side effect of the henna. Thus the reason why so many here are adding various essential oils to their henna mixtures. It just makes sense to me to do this. Furthermore, I don't see how adding natural oils to anything, especially another natural product could hinder or "deteriorate the effect of the product.
I don't doubt what you're saying about the different types of henna and the pureness of some as opposed to the partial henna products. However, how do you explain so many women here, including myself, having such positive results with using hennalucent? There must be some good to it. I like adding the natural oils and conditioners to the henna. It makes for a nice mixture and softens the hair up rather nicely IMO.
I am always open for learning more and exploring new and better options. Since I'm not looking to do any coloring, I guess natural henna is out of the question for me. I'd like to find out more info about this lotus powder. When I did a search on the net, the only links I came across that discussed lotus powder, was on the Henna haircare forum that you're hosting (good site). Thanks in advance for your help and thanks for posting this information. /images/graemlins/smile.gif
It was very interesting reading your posts. It seems you are very knowledgeable about henna. I personally don't know a whole lot about henna since, I'm new to the whole henna experience. When I did my research on the Internet, I came across many sites (Indian), which discussed the effects of henna on the hair. One of the things that was warned against was the frequent using of henna, as it tends to dry the hair out. To my knowledge, all of these sites were using pure henna. So I assumed that was a natural side effect of the henna. Thus the reason why so many here are adding various essential oils to their henna mixtures. It just makes sense to me to do this. Furthermore, I don't see how adding natural oils to anything, especially another natural product could hinder or "deteriorate the effect of the product.
I don't doubt what you're saying about the different types of henna and the pureness of some as opposed to the partial henna products. However, how do you explain so many women here, including myself, having such positive results with using hennalucent? There must be some good to it. I like adding the natural oils and conditioners to the henna. It makes for a nice mixture and softens the hair up rather nicely IMO.
I am always open for learning more and exploring new and better options. Since I'm not looking to do any coloring, I guess natural henna is out of the question for me. I'd like to find out more info about this lotus powder. When I did a search on the net, the only links I came across that discussed lotus powder, was on the Henna haircare forum that you're hosting (good site). Thanks in advance for your help and thanks for posting this information. /images/graemlins/smile.gif
sassygirl125
Professional PJ
Hi HennaJoy! /images/graemlins/wave.gif
I've been lurking on your ezboard forum for a few days. /images/graemlins/sekret.gif ( Forum ) I know natural henna isn't recommended for chemically treated hair, but is lotus powder safe for 1/2 naturally kinky and 1/2 chemically straightened hair?
Does lotus powder coat the hair? I'm thinking that if it coats the hair that it will be impossible to rinse and/or make my hair feel hard...
I've been lurking on your ezboard forum for a few days. /images/graemlins/sekret.gif ( Forum ) I know natural henna isn't recommended for chemically treated hair, but is lotus powder safe for 1/2 naturally kinky and 1/2 chemically straightened hair?
Does lotus powder coat the hair? I'm thinking that if it coats the hair that it will be impossible to rinse and/or make my hair feel hard...
Hi Pebbles and CurlyCrly,
Thanks for the welcome. I received an email about your board and I am so happy to find a group of sisters using and enthusiastic about henna. I am a loooooooong time henna head and believer and user of natural products. So I am glad to be here to share and get information.
I've worn my hair natural for over 10 years consistently now. Before I began a regular use of henna and the lotus powder, I experienced breakage and damage to my hair just from combing and damage from some of the shampoos and conditioners I used. My scalp particularly was a problem. Dry in spots...oily in spots...dandruff. I don't believe henna is the answer to everyones pray for every hair problem. I just know that there are certain benefits to the henna and also to lotus powder that I never obtained from anything else. Sharing that news and hearing other people's experiences is an opportunity that is always welcomed by me.
So...glad to be here.. /images/graemlins/smile.gif
HennaJoy
Thanks for the welcome. I received an email about your board and I am so happy to find a group of sisters using and enthusiastic about henna. I am a loooooooong time henna head and believer and user of natural products. So I am glad to be here to share and get information.
I've worn my hair natural for over 10 years consistently now. Before I began a regular use of henna and the lotus powder, I experienced breakage and damage to my hair just from combing and damage from some of the shampoos and conditioners I used. My scalp particularly was a problem. Dry in spots...oily in spots...dandruff. I don't believe henna is the answer to everyones pray for every hair problem. I just know that there are certain benefits to the henna and also to lotus powder that I never obtained from anything else. Sharing that news and hearing other people's experiences is an opportunity that is always welcomed by me.
So...glad to be here.. /images/graemlins/smile.gif
HennaJoy
VALLEYGIRL
New Member
</font><blockquote><font class="small">In reply to:</font><hr />
Hennalucent is not really a henna product. It falls more in the category of products that have a little henna in them.
[/ QUOTE ]
Someone in Sally's told me this a few weeks ago. I am glad you posted this here b/c I didn't want to do it and get blasted!!! This is why it has no metallic dyes(I was told) and why you can use it in conjunction with other chemical services.
So can you explain why everyone has such great results with the Hennalucent mixed with things like Aubrey BPB and olive oils? Is it just a really deep conditioning treatment with a hint of henna in it? The lady in Sally's told me it was basically just a conditioning semi-permenant coloring and not henna at all. It has a coating/sealing effect on the hair similar to a Sebastian Colorshines.
Valleygirl
PS Welcome to the board
Hennalucent is not really a henna product. It falls more in the category of products that have a little henna in them.
[/ QUOTE ]
Someone in Sally's told me this a few weeks ago. I am glad you posted this here b/c I didn't want to do it and get blasted!!! This is why it has no metallic dyes(I was told) and why you can use it in conjunction with other chemical services.
So can you explain why everyone has such great results with the Hennalucent mixed with things like Aubrey BPB and olive oils? Is it just a really deep conditioning treatment with a hint of henna in it? The lady in Sally's told me it was basically just a conditioning semi-permenant coloring and not henna at all. It has a coating/sealing effect on the hair similar to a Sebastian Colorshines.
Valleygirl
PS Welcome to the board
VALLEYGIRL
New Member
</font><blockquote><font class="small">In reply to:</font><hr />
but is lotus powder safe for 1/2 naturally kinky and 1/2 chemically straightened hair?
Does lotus powder coat the hair? I'm thinking that if it coats the hair that it will be impossible to rinse and/or make my hair feel hard...
[/ QUOTE ]
I also have the same questions as Sassygirl...
Also is Lotus powder safe to use on color treated hair? My hair colored and this is one of the main reasons I have stayed away from Henna. I heard that it can react kinda weird to hair dye...this and all the stuff I have heard about the drying effects of Henna.
Also what are classic leaves? Would Lotus Powder be considered to be a classic leaf?
Thanks
Valleygirl
but is lotus powder safe for 1/2 naturally kinky and 1/2 chemically straightened hair?
Does lotus powder coat the hair? I'm thinking that if it coats the hair that it will be impossible to rinse and/or make my hair feel hard...
[/ QUOTE ]
I also have the same questions as Sassygirl...
Also is Lotus powder safe to use on color treated hair? My hair colored and this is one of the main reasons I have stayed away from Henna. I heard that it can react kinda weird to hair dye...this and all the stuff I have heard about the drying effects of Henna.
Also what are classic leaves? Would Lotus Powder be considered to be a classic leaf?
Thanks
Valleygirl
Hi Armyqt and thanks for the welcome!
First let me say that I certainly didn't mean to sound like I was saying that Hennalucent was not a good product and/or that it could not have a positive effect on your and other's hair. What I was saying...or meant to say if it was not clear...is that it is not the same as a 100% natural henna product. The benefits and outcomes are different...which includes the coloring of the hair. The point I was attempting to make is that just because there is henna in the name of a product, does not mean that it is what is considered a henna product. And for people who are looking to "henna" their hair with natural henna, that might be a useful piece of information. My point was intended to provide information that might allow people who wanted to, to be able to differientiate between natural henna and products with henna in the name. Hope that clears that up.
A lot of sights provide a lot of different information concerning the use of henna. It is not possible for me to know what is meant by "frequent use." Most people using henna once a month have no problem with hair drying out. Perhaps the other sites were warning against use of henna more frequently than that. Many of the Indian henna products also recommend the use of hot water. I would recommend the use of lukewarm water instead if one is to use water at all. I would actually recommend the use of lemon juice. The water thing has a lot to do with the differences in water in different parts of the world and even in different parts of the U.S. Some water will be wonderful with henna. Some will kill the dyeing capacity. That is why there has been a shift to the use of lemon juice concentrate with the henna rather than water. Also, the acid in the lemon juice helps to break down the particles of henna so that the dye is released faster and more efficiently. The way henna is mixed and how will differ from country to country and person to person. What I provided was the basics that are required to get the most benefit from using 100% natural henna powder.
Also, many of the Indian henna powders will contain a lot of other things that include green dye for coloration of the henna powder itself (it won't color your hair green)...black walnut powder to make the henna dye a more brownish red color...and a fragrance. So it is not always clear if it is pure henna powder that is being used. Even if you are purchasing an henna powder from India that is labelled 100% pure henna powder, 99% to 100% of the time, the powder will at least contain the green dye. The way to know that is to mix some up and watch the paste never turn khaki or dark brown the way natural henna powder does. That is one of the complaints about the henna powders from India. However, there is no reason to believe that the green dye is harmful and the fact is that it does not effect the coloring or conditioning benefits of the henna powder itself.
The only issue with adding oils and such to henna is that sometimes the oils will prevent the henna dyes from coloring the hair as effective as it would without the oils. The dye has problems penetrating the oils. This would be an important issue to anyone wanting the best coloring effect of the henna. If one is interested only in the conditioning effect and really want to retard the dying capacity, then adding the oils would be an advantage. But if it is the coloring that is equally important, it would be important to know that oils could prevent getting the best coloring possible.
My other point about oils and herbs and teas and such is that they are best used with henna only after one has used the natural henna alone and understands the benefits and results of natural henna by itself. Then additions are used in the context of pushing the henna to do something else you want it to do that it does not do on its own. People have exotic hair and body art henna recipes and rituals. I just recommend starting from and getting grounded in the basics and then becoming as creative and elaborate as one wants.
I would never be one to say don't add whatever you like to your henna if that is what you want to do. I am saying that very often, the effects on the hair that people describe and attribute to henna are often caused by the extra things they add to their natural henna...or are because the product they thought was henna was not actually natural henna.
Actually my forum you refer to is more dedicated to Mehndi body art and the use of henna for mehndi skin designs. We discuss henna for hair and related products a lot there as well. There is also a forum there for using natural dyes for fabric with a focus on henna and indigo. I am glad that you like the forum. I'm really a member of a lot of forums and lists that discuss henna, natural products, natural dyes. I also am a supplier or henna, natural products, natural dyes, snuff bottles, ceramic one of a kind products, ceramic bisque...etc. I hope that my hosting a forum, being a supplier, being a member of other forums, groups, etc., is not a problem here. If so, please let me know. I didn't want to create a problem.
I was told about this being a board for African American women and that there was a discussion here related to henna that I might want to become a part of. I thought it was ok to come here and contribute being an African American woman with natural henna'd hair. I like the idea of contributing information and obtaining information from a group of folks like me. But if the other hats I wear is a problem, please do let me know. I will understand.
Thanks.
HennaJoy
First let me say that I certainly didn't mean to sound like I was saying that Hennalucent was not a good product and/or that it could not have a positive effect on your and other's hair. What I was saying...or meant to say if it was not clear...is that it is not the same as a 100% natural henna product. The benefits and outcomes are different...which includes the coloring of the hair. The point I was attempting to make is that just because there is henna in the name of a product, does not mean that it is what is considered a henna product. And for people who are looking to "henna" their hair with natural henna, that might be a useful piece of information. My point was intended to provide information that might allow people who wanted to, to be able to differientiate between natural henna and products with henna in the name. Hope that clears that up.
A lot of sights provide a lot of different information concerning the use of henna. It is not possible for me to know what is meant by "frequent use." Most people using henna once a month have no problem with hair drying out. Perhaps the other sites were warning against use of henna more frequently than that. Many of the Indian henna products also recommend the use of hot water. I would recommend the use of lukewarm water instead if one is to use water at all. I would actually recommend the use of lemon juice. The water thing has a lot to do with the differences in water in different parts of the world and even in different parts of the U.S. Some water will be wonderful with henna. Some will kill the dyeing capacity. That is why there has been a shift to the use of lemon juice concentrate with the henna rather than water. Also, the acid in the lemon juice helps to break down the particles of henna so that the dye is released faster and more efficiently. The way henna is mixed and how will differ from country to country and person to person. What I provided was the basics that are required to get the most benefit from using 100% natural henna powder.
Also, many of the Indian henna powders will contain a lot of other things that include green dye for coloration of the henna powder itself (it won't color your hair green)...black walnut powder to make the henna dye a more brownish red color...and a fragrance. So it is not always clear if it is pure henna powder that is being used. Even if you are purchasing an henna powder from India that is labelled 100% pure henna powder, 99% to 100% of the time, the powder will at least contain the green dye. The way to know that is to mix some up and watch the paste never turn khaki or dark brown the way natural henna powder does. That is one of the complaints about the henna powders from India. However, there is no reason to believe that the green dye is harmful and the fact is that it does not effect the coloring or conditioning benefits of the henna powder itself.
The only issue with adding oils and such to henna is that sometimes the oils will prevent the henna dyes from coloring the hair as effective as it would without the oils. The dye has problems penetrating the oils. This would be an important issue to anyone wanting the best coloring effect of the henna. If one is interested only in the conditioning effect and really want to retard the dying capacity, then adding the oils would be an advantage. But if it is the coloring that is equally important, it would be important to know that oils could prevent getting the best coloring possible.
My other point about oils and herbs and teas and such is that they are best used with henna only after one has used the natural henna alone and understands the benefits and results of natural henna by itself. Then additions are used in the context of pushing the henna to do something else you want it to do that it does not do on its own. People have exotic hair and body art henna recipes and rituals. I just recommend starting from and getting grounded in the basics and then becoming as creative and elaborate as one wants.
I would never be one to say don't add whatever you like to your henna if that is what you want to do. I am saying that very often, the effects on the hair that people describe and attribute to henna are often caused by the extra things they add to their natural henna...or are because the product they thought was henna was not actually natural henna.
Actually my forum you refer to is more dedicated to Mehndi body art and the use of henna for mehndi skin designs. We discuss henna for hair and related products a lot there as well. There is also a forum there for using natural dyes for fabric with a focus on henna and indigo. I am glad that you like the forum. I'm really a member of a lot of forums and lists that discuss henna, natural products, natural dyes. I also am a supplier or henna, natural products, natural dyes, snuff bottles, ceramic one of a kind products, ceramic bisque...etc. I hope that my hosting a forum, being a supplier, being a member of other forums, groups, etc., is not a problem here. If so, please let me know. I didn't want to create a problem.
I was told about this being a board for African American women and that there was a discussion here related to henna that I might want to become a part of. I thought it was ok to come here and contribute being an African American woman with natural henna'd hair. I like the idea of contributing information and obtaining information from a group of folks like me. But if the other hats I wear is a problem, please do let me know. I will understand.
Thanks.
HennaJoy
Hi SassyGirl,
Hey...don't lurk...join right in... /images/graemlins/smile.gif
But then...if it is alright...I'll be hanging out here too.
The lotus powder (like henna powder) is really messy to use. You have to mix it like henna powder and let it sit for just an hour to get good mixture of the lotus powder and the liquid. Then apply the resulting paste to the hair. It will require a lot of rinsing. I do this standing in the shower to make sure I get it all out. Then I pick and comb through my hair really good. So the rinsing thing requires extra time but rinses out completely. But it doesn't leave the hair hard. Its effect is to leave the hair softer. I use the lotus powder as a paste twice a month in between henna applications. Then I use it whenever I want as more of a rinse by using just a tablespoon and a half of the lotus powder with rose water, orange blossom water or a rosemary water infusion I make at home. Pour it over my hair...massage in the hair and scalp...leave on for 10 minutes and then rinse out. I actually haven't used a shampoo or conditioner other than the henna and lotus powder for years.
The reason I hunted down lotus powder was to find something that could be used on hair that had been colored or chemically treated and also provide the conditioning that is desired from henna. It is mild and safe and nourishes the hair.
HennaJoy
Hey...don't lurk...join right in... /images/graemlins/smile.gif
But then...if it is alright...I'll be hanging out here too.
The lotus powder (like henna powder) is really messy to use. You have to mix it like henna powder and let it sit for just an hour to get good mixture of the lotus powder and the liquid. Then apply the resulting paste to the hair. It will require a lot of rinsing. I do this standing in the shower to make sure I get it all out. Then I pick and comb through my hair really good. So the rinsing thing requires extra time but rinses out completely. But it doesn't leave the hair hard. Its effect is to leave the hair softer. I use the lotus powder as a paste twice a month in between henna applications. Then I use it whenever I want as more of a rinse by using just a tablespoon and a half of the lotus powder with rose water, orange blossom water or a rosemary water infusion I make at home. Pour it over my hair...massage in the hair and scalp...leave on for 10 minutes and then rinse out. I actually haven't used a shampoo or conditioner other than the henna and lotus powder for years.
The reason I hunted down lotus powder was to find something that could be used on hair that had been colored or chemically treated and also provide the conditioning that is desired from henna. It is mild and safe and nourishes the hair.
HennaJoy
Mahalialee4
New Member
Re: Paging the Hennaphilic Gals...HENNA JOY
Henna Joy: I personally appreciate your comments and have also checked out other sites you are on. I have used Henna off and on for over 2 years, so I am able to compare the with or without additions. When I am going strictly for color, I cut back on much of the additions. Basically, I add a tablespoon of olive oil and lemon or lime juice. I do find that it is possible to cook the henna with too hot water. This proved to leave MY hair hard and brittle and then I really had to work over the next month to get it softened. When I do not use too hot water, I get a soft moist result right after I wash it out and do the AVC , and no brittleness over the duration. What I did on the last application, following the rinsing...was too slather my hair with Nature's Gate conditioner (creamy one) and let it sit for about 2 minutes. I rinsed it but not with a view to remove every trace of conditioner. But at the same time, I did not make a point of leaving conditioner in that would lead to stickiness or dullness. Never has hair been so soft, you just would not believe.It is what my hair is like when it has no henna! but it is very full of body, thick and straight. After I wrapped and dried it (this time under the dome dryer), I added a light oil to sections, and I just brushed through with a touch of the brush. The tangles and any stiffness just melted. So I ended up using 3/4 LESS PRODUCT in oils and hair products...which I would normally use to soften. I loved the outcome. I am also going to try it with the black strap conditioner every second natural conditioning. Please keep posting. I want to do the "indigo" with henna thing too, to get black hair. Love to hear comments from you on that particular subject, as I have not tried this yet. /images/graemlins/smile.gifBonjour.
Henna Joy: I personally appreciate your comments and have also checked out other sites you are on. I have used Henna off and on for over 2 years, so I am able to compare the with or without additions. When I am going strictly for color, I cut back on much of the additions. Basically, I add a tablespoon of olive oil and lemon or lime juice. I do find that it is possible to cook the henna with too hot water. This proved to leave MY hair hard and brittle and then I really had to work over the next month to get it softened. When I do not use too hot water, I get a soft moist result right after I wash it out and do the AVC , and no brittleness over the duration. What I did on the last application, following the rinsing...was too slather my hair with Nature's Gate conditioner (creamy one) and let it sit for about 2 minutes. I rinsed it but not with a view to remove every trace of conditioner. But at the same time, I did not make a point of leaving conditioner in that would lead to stickiness or dullness. Never has hair been so soft, you just would not believe.It is what my hair is like when it has no henna! but it is very full of body, thick and straight. After I wrapped and dried it (this time under the dome dryer), I added a light oil to sections, and I just brushed through with a touch of the brush. The tangles and any stiffness just melted. So I ended up using 3/4 LESS PRODUCT in oils and hair products...which I would normally use to soften. I loved the outcome. I am also going to try it with the black strap conditioner every second natural conditioning. Please keep posting. I want to do the "indigo" with henna thing too, to get black hair. Love to hear comments from you on that particular subject, as I have not tried this yet. /images/graemlins/smile.gifBonjour.
Hi ValleyGirl,
Thanks for the welcome. Wish I had been warned about the blasting thing. I think I sort of got blasted some already. Probably more to come...huh!
The person at Sally's was right on...as are you with your assessment.
Sounds to me like Hennalucent does indeed do a good job with deep conditioning. And from reading a lot of the other posts, people are adding a lot of other things that also condition the hair as well. So the positive results that are obtained have to do with the products they are using and the extra things they are adding rather than having to do with henna. It also means that some of the other effects like dryness and stiffness or other things are due to the other products and additives rather than to henna.
There are lots of products that will provide good benefits to our hair. One of the reasons a lot of people want to shift to henna is to be free of a lot of the chemicals that are in products. Some are there just to keep the ingredients from separating, some for color of the mix, some for fragrance, some good for the hair, some not, some having little or no effect at all. Henna or lotus powder are good alternatives for people who want just a natural product without the other stuff in it.
HennaJoy
Thanks for the welcome. Wish I had been warned about the blasting thing. I think I sort of got blasted some already. Probably more to come...huh!
The person at Sally's was right on...as are you with your assessment.
Sounds to me like Hennalucent does indeed do a good job with deep conditioning. And from reading a lot of the other posts, people are adding a lot of other things that also condition the hair as well. So the positive results that are obtained have to do with the products they are using and the extra things they are adding rather than having to do with henna. It also means that some of the other effects like dryness and stiffness or other things are due to the other products and additives rather than to henna.
There are lots of products that will provide good benefits to our hair. One of the reasons a lot of people want to shift to henna is to be free of a lot of the chemicals that are in products. Some are there just to keep the ingredients from separating, some for color of the mix, some for fragrance, some good for the hair, some not, some having little or no effect at all. Henna or lotus powder are good alternatives for people who want just a natural product without the other stuff in it.
HennaJoy
Hi Henna Joy/images/graemlins/wave.gif
</font><blockquote><font class="small">In reply to:</font><hr />
Actually, all of the teas, herbs, oils, yogurts etc., should be eliminated from the henna recipe since the henna does not need it at all. That is just extra stuff. And often the outcome that people say they don't like about henna is not the henna at all, but instead the effect of some of the other stuff added to the henna.
[/ QUOTE ]
Can you explain to me why the Hennalucent product makes one's hair very easy to manage if it's not a henna product at all? I will call the company to hear what they have to say Also, you said it was the conditioners that we've been adding that softens the hair, but I've been using conditioners for a LONG TIME AND THOSE CONDITIONERS NEVER LOOSENED THE CURL PATTERN TO MY HAIR THE WAY HENNALUCENT HAS. My hair literally falls over in the wash so effortlessly when I shampoo. The texture is straighter and softer. So what gives? My intent is to use neutral as I color my hair with another hair product. You also said esential and carrier oils can be be detrimental to adding to the henna? However, when I used the hennalucent in 'Gleaming Ebony', I added the oils, etc., and my hair came out a rich Jet-Black color. The way I love it. I've been doing this for awhile now and my hair is strong, shiny and overall very healthy.
Thanks for your comments, because I really appreciate them /images/graemlins/smile.gif I have a few questions to ask you. You said you've been using henna for years and I would like to know:
1. Someone posted a link explaining that if you wanted black hair, using henna with indigo would give you the desired results. I'm a great lover of jet-black hair, and I'm wondering is this the only procedure you would use or is there another process to get jet-black hair using natural henna?
2. Using the hennalucent has helped me transition from relaxed to natural hair successfully. Currently, my hair is almost 3 inches away from being bra-strap, with no damage or breakage at all while using this product on my chemically straightened hair, and I was wondering how long is your hair? I ask this because though long-hair isn't universal for everyone, the desire for healthy hair is, and I know that this product does an excellent job at retaining the strength of the strands.
HennaJoy you are a great addition to this forum and I'm very open to learning new methods to century old processes, if it will enhance the ability of the henna product to be more effective. Like you, I absolutely love this stuff and any comments you have I will definately look into /images/graemlins/smile.gif
</font><blockquote><font class="small">In reply to:</font><hr />
Actually, all of the teas, herbs, oils, yogurts etc., should be eliminated from the henna recipe since the henna does not need it at all. That is just extra stuff. And often the outcome that people say they don't like about henna is not the henna at all, but instead the effect of some of the other stuff added to the henna.
[/ QUOTE ]
Can you explain to me why the Hennalucent product makes one's hair very easy to manage if it's not a henna product at all? I will call the company to hear what they have to say Also, you said it was the conditioners that we've been adding that softens the hair, but I've been using conditioners for a LONG TIME AND THOSE CONDITIONERS NEVER LOOSENED THE CURL PATTERN TO MY HAIR THE WAY HENNALUCENT HAS. My hair literally falls over in the wash so effortlessly when I shampoo. The texture is straighter and softer. So what gives? My intent is to use neutral as I color my hair with another hair product. You also said esential and carrier oils can be be detrimental to adding to the henna? However, when I used the hennalucent in 'Gleaming Ebony', I added the oils, etc., and my hair came out a rich Jet-Black color. The way I love it. I've been doing this for awhile now and my hair is strong, shiny and overall very healthy.
Thanks for your comments, because I really appreciate them /images/graemlins/smile.gif I have a few questions to ask you. You said you've been using henna for years and I would like to know:
1. Someone posted a link explaining that if you wanted black hair, using henna with indigo would give you the desired results. I'm a great lover of jet-black hair, and I'm wondering is this the only procedure you would use or is there another process to get jet-black hair using natural henna?
2. Using the hennalucent has helped me transition from relaxed to natural hair successfully. Currently, my hair is almost 3 inches away from being bra-strap, with no damage or breakage at all while using this product on my chemically straightened hair, and I was wondering how long is your hair? I ask this because though long-hair isn't universal for everyone, the desire for healthy hair is, and I know that this product does an excellent job at retaining the strength of the strands.
HennaJoy you are a great addition to this forum and I'm very open to learning new methods to century old processes, if it will enhance the ability of the henna product to be more effective. Like you, I absolutely love this stuff and any comments you have I will definately look into /images/graemlins/smile.gif
Applying Henna
I have used natural henna as well as hennuecent. The only turn off I have is the application of henna in general can you tell or discribe to me a easier way of applying natural henna. I am confused about how often you can use natural henna. I became so fustrated with putting it and washing it out. Please help!!!!
Takbir
I have used natural henna as well as hennuecent. The only turn off I have is the application of henna in general can you tell or discribe to me a easier way of applying natural henna. I am confused about how often you can use natural henna. I became so fustrated with putting it and washing it out. Please help!!!!
Takbir
Re: Paging the Hennaphilic Gals...HENNA JOY
Hi Mahalialee4,
Thanks for the welcome! I already love this board. I love the fact that so many people are using henna and sharing experiences and I am learning new stuff and confirming lots of things I have tried and been told before.
Henna just does not like hot water does it. It needs heat and timing to release its dyes and penetrate well, but it reacts poorly to being mixed with hot water or left to sit to long in a too hot environment. It cooks and its nature really does change regardless of being used on the hair or for body art.
I am hearing a lot of good things about the effect of using henna and then a conditioner but not rinsing all of the conditioner out. The henna treatment does have an added benefit of loosening and detangling the hair on its own. But from everything I am hearing, including from you, the additional conditioner when not completely rinsed out seems to loosen the curl and detangle even more. That sounds like a good combination to me. Especially for natural styles that can benefit from less shrinkage and less frizz.
I think you will love the henna and indigo treatment. It is a two step process requiring the application of the henna through to rinsing it out. The next step is with the indigo. I mix my henna and indigo up at the same time in separate bowls because the indigo needs to sit for a longer period of time. (It doesn't dissole as readily as henna.) It is important to wear plastic/rubber gloves with both of these. The henna will turn your hair orange and the indigo will turn your hands blue/gray...And nobody wants that. I apply both similarly...keeping in mind that the indigo is runnier. I keep both on my hair for 4 to 8 hours...or as long as I can stand to have it on my head. Rinse out thoroughly over and over and over again. Then comb and style as desired. The indigo gets darker over time. Since everyones hair is a bit different, the timing thing gets different from individual to individual. So harvesting some hair from your brush or comb and testing the henna on it to determine how long it takes to get the coloring and then testing the indigo on the henna'd hair, will give you a good estimation of how long it is going to take to get them to get your hair to the desired color. I actually leave the henna on my hair so long because I am going for the conditioning effect. I leave the indigo on for so long because I typically do this at night time and sleep in it.
The important things to remember about the process is that both the henna and indigo are going to dye any cloth they come into contact with and both need a sitting time for the dye to develop. So what you wear while applying will need to be designated as your "hair henna" garb and towel etc. Henna will stain skin and cloth but won't mess up your sink, bathtub etc. The indigo has been known to leave a mark...can be harder to get out if it gets into grouting, so take care with it because it can stain certain things.
Some people have mixed the henna paste and indigo paste together. The results are more burgundy or wine depending upon the color of the hair it is put on. The two step process is what is needed to get the sort of raven black...blue black color.
If you are interested in the entire henna and indigo process from start to finish, I'll be glad to post it or type it up and email it.
Take care.
HennaJoy
Hi Mahalialee4,
Thanks for the welcome! I already love this board. I love the fact that so many people are using henna and sharing experiences and I am learning new stuff and confirming lots of things I have tried and been told before.
Henna just does not like hot water does it. It needs heat and timing to release its dyes and penetrate well, but it reacts poorly to being mixed with hot water or left to sit to long in a too hot environment. It cooks and its nature really does change regardless of being used on the hair or for body art.
I am hearing a lot of good things about the effect of using henna and then a conditioner but not rinsing all of the conditioner out. The henna treatment does have an added benefit of loosening and detangling the hair on its own. But from everything I am hearing, including from you, the additional conditioner when not completely rinsed out seems to loosen the curl and detangle even more. That sounds like a good combination to me. Especially for natural styles that can benefit from less shrinkage and less frizz.
I think you will love the henna and indigo treatment. It is a two step process requiring the application of the henna through to rinsing it out. The next step is with the indigo. I mix my henna and indigo up at the same time in separate bowls because the indigo needs to sit for a longer period of time. (It doesn't dissole as readily as henna.) It is important to wear plastic/rubber gloves with both of these. The henna will turn your hair orange and the indigo will turn your hands blue/gray...And nobody wants that. I apply both similarly...keeping in mind that the indigo is runnier. I keep both on my hair for 4 to 8 hours...or as long as I can stand to have it on my head. Rinse out thoroughly over and over and over again. Then comb and style as desired. The indigo gets darker over time. Since everyones hair is a bit different, the timing thing gets different from individual to individual. So harvesting some hair from your brush or comb and testing the henna on it to determine how long it takes to get the coloring and then testing the indigo on the henna'd hair, will give you a good estimation of how long it is going to take to get them to get your hair to the desired color. I actually leave the henna on my hair so long because I am going for the conditioning effect. I leave the indigo on for so long because I typically do this at night time and sleep in it.
The important things to remember about the process is that both the henna and indigo are going to dye any cloth they come into contact with and both need a sitting time for the dye to develop. So what you wear while applying will need to be designated as your "hair henna" garb and towel etc. Henna will stain skin and cloth but won't mess up your sink, bathtub etc. The indigo has been known to leave a mark...can be harder to get out if it gets into grouting, so take care with it because it can stain certain things.
Some people have mixed the henna paste and indigo paste together. The results are more burgundy or wine depending upon the color of the hair it is put on. The two step process is what is needed to get the sort of raven black...blue black color.
If you are interested in the entire henna and indigo process from start to finish, I'll be glad to post it or type it up and email it.
Take care.
HennaJoy
sweetcocoa
Active Member
Hi Hennajoy. I found your posts very interesting. I'm not looking for color but reduction of frizz and shrinkage when I wear my hair natural(as opposed to doing a wet set). Will the henna do this? I picked up Hennalucent today, cause I figured it was safe(I'm afraid to use anything I'm not familiar with on my hair that would affect the texture...that's why I picked that up). I'm doing what you call a 'harvest' at this very moment. I'm feeling like I wasted my money on the Hennalucent though. Will the Lotus powder reduce the frizz and loosen the curl? Thanks!
Also welcome...I don't think anyone was trying to blast you...personally I like to know both sides...the pro's and cons. You have a lot of experience /images/graemlins/smile.gif
Also welcome...I don't think anyone was trying to blast you...personally I like to know both sides...the pro's and cons. You have a lot of experience /images/graemlins/smile.gif
