Working of Henna
Decoding Henna’s Colourful Alchemy
By Nat Habit
Henna—a symbol of tradition, celebration, and self-expression—has graced generations with its earthy charm. But beyond its beauty lies a quietly powerful chemistry. Let’s step behind the curtain and discover the alchemy that brings henna’s color to life.
How Henna Works?
The Science Beneath the Stain
At the heart of henna’s magic lies a compound called lawsone (2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone), the natural dye molecule found in the leaves of the Lawsonia inermis plant. When henna paste is applied to hair or skin, these lawsone molecules begin bonding with keratin, the structural protein that makes up hair and nails.
This isn’t just surface-level staining—it’s a gentle chemical reaction, creating a semi-permanent bond that imparts a rich, enduring colour.
From Orange to Auburn
A Colour that Evolves
Once applied, henna begins with a light orange tint—a whisper of colour that signals the beginning of a slow bloom. Over the next 24 to 48 hours, as the lawsone-keratin bonds oxidise, the hue deepens into a richer, more vibrant reddish-brown.
The final shade depends on:
- Henna quality (freshness, fineness, and purity)
- Application time
- Body or hair chemistry (pH, porosity, warmth)
Patience is key—because henna isn’t about instant gratification. It’s a natural process, deeply personal and beautifully evolving.
Building Deeper Shades Over Time
Every time you apply henna, it builds upon the last—layer by layer. Repeated applications create a deeper, darker, and more complex tone, while also conditioning the strands. With each use:
- The hair cuticle smoothens
- Porosity improves
- Binding becomes stronger. This results in richer colour payoff and longer-lasting vibrancy.
Henna is not just a one-time transformation—it’s a journey of strengthening and staining in tandem.
Tradition Meets Transformation
What begins as a green, earthy paste becomes a radiant emblem of individuality. Whether you seek a subtle tint or a statement shade, henna adapts to your essence—merging tradition, science, and self-expression.
It’s not just a colourant. It’s a ritual.
A quiet revolution in hair care.
A natural storyteller that leaves its trace in coppery, crimson tales.
Also Read: Does Henna Prevent Greying?
Watch what our co-founder Swagatika says about Ready-To-Apply Fresh Henna Paste.
