Henna & Indigo Guide

100% botanical hair colour: the two-step henna and indigo process.

Recommended for naturally black to dark brown hair with white or grey roots or strands. This method can give natural shades from chestnut brown to black.

Step 1: Prepare and apply henna paste

Ingredient Quantity Instruction
Henna powder 100 g Mix into a smooth paste.
Lemon 1–2 lemons Add to the henna before soaking.
Water 300 ml Mix well and soak for 8–12 hours.

Application: Apply henna evenly from roots to ends. Leave for 2–6 hours, then shampoo or wash. White hair will turn a red/orange henna shade before the indigo step.

Step 2: Prepare and apply fresh indigo paste

Ingredient Quantity Instruction
Indigo powder 100 g Mix only when ready to apply.
Lukewarm water 300 ml Make a smooth paste and apply immediately.

Application: After washing out the henna, apply indigo paste to the red/orange hair. Keep it on for the time shown in the shade guide below, then rinse with plain water and condition.

Shade timing guide

Desired shade Henna time Indigo time
Chestnut 2–6 hours 20 minutes
Dark chocolate brown 2–6 hours 40 minutes
Black 2–6 hours Up to 2 hours

Tips and tricks

  • Use 1–2 lemons for 100 g of henna, depending on the size of the lemon.
  • Add a pinch of salt to the indigo powder.
  • Shampoo is not recommended in the first wash after indigo.
  • Indigo will release colour in the second wash.

Important

  • Indigo paste should be used immediately after mixing.
  • Botanical hair colour cannot lighten existing dark hair into a lighter shade.
  • Results may vary depending on hair texture, previous chemical colour, and the percentage of grey or white hair.
  • A patch test is recommended before full application.

For product enquiries, contact us at info@abidco.com.