Applying henna to hair has been a tradition for centuries. People often regard it as a traditional natural hair dye and conditioner practice. When applied, it provides a rich reddish-brown hue to the hair. Though it is a historic practice, many potential side effects are associated. It is very crucial to know about the side effects before applying henna to hair.
Allergic Reactions:
The application of henna can cause allergic reactions. Though it is considered safe, some may face allergic reactions. The symptoms include itching, redness, swelling, rashes on the scalp and skin, etc. Users sometimes may need to get medical attention due to the side effects. Experts suggest to conduct a patch test first and then apply to the entire scalp and hair.
Dryness:
Henna may bring dryness to the scalp leading to brittleness in the hair. It happens when henna is used frequently. The dye particles present in henna can potentially drain out the natural oil and moisture of the hair. It can lead to rough hair and hair fall. If someone applying henna experiences such side effects, it is advised to take deep conditioning or oil treatments to bring back the natural moisture. It also helps in the nourishment of the hair.
Colour Variability:
This is another most experienced side effect. The final colour following the application of henna can depend on factors like quality of the henna, duration of application and natural colour of the hair. Though people apply henna to get a reddish-brown colour, the final result may vary from person to person. Frequent use of it may cause permanent colour changes.
Irritation:
It is another frequently experienced side effect of applying henna to hair. Individuals often experience irritations like itching, burning, or redness on the scalp causing intense irritation and distress. Scalp irritation can occur due to allergic reactions following the application of henna. To minimise the irritation in the scalp, users must abide by the instructions provided by the manufacturer and minimise prolonged exposure to henna.
