1. How long have you used henna? How often do you use it?
On and off for about 2 years.
2. When did you first try it, and what was that experience like?
When I first tried henna I was very unimpressed with the difference in color, but I also failed to follow the directions...so, I guess I made my own bed there.
3. What brand(s) do you like? What brands would you NOT recommend? Where did you get them?
I've only used Rainbow brand henna and the bulk henna from the co-op.
4. What process do you use to henna your hair?
I first wash my hair with shampoo and baking soda to remove any build-up or residue, then apply the henna mixture and cover with a plastice bag/warm towel for 1- 1 1/2 hours, then rinse thoroughly. I generally try to not wash my hair for 48 hours after doing a henna treatment to let the color take.
5. Do you find henna beneficial or damaging to your hair health overall?
I find that I have far fewer split ends for a month or so after I henna, and I've never noticed any adverse reactions.
6. What is your favorite thing about henna? What is your LEAST favorite thing?
I like to color with henna in the winter, as my hair loses it's coppery highlights and becomes down-right mousey brown.
Well, it does make your hair smell like hay for about a week (you can fix this by dabbing on a few drops of a favorite fragrance oil), and it can be kind of gloppy and messy to apply (do this in the shower/tub to make clean-up easier).
7. If you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be?
I'd be a big old oak, because they make the greatest climbing trees.
8. What else should someone know if they have never used henna but are considering their first henna experience?
I'd say use a color which is is within the same general spectrum as your natural color, as henna is more of a color enhancer than anything else.
