The Azlok Indigo Powder + Henna Powder combo is used together to colour grey or dull hair a natural brown to black shade without synthetic dyes. The usual method is a two-step process: apply henna first for a red-orange base, then apply indigo over it to deepen the colour. Used in a single mix, the pair gives softer brown tones. Each powder in this pack is 100 grams, finely milled from plant material and meant for external hair and beauty use only.
What each powder does
Henna (from the Lawsonia inermis plant) stains hair in warm reddish-copper tones and is known for conditioning and adding shine. On its own it will not give you black hair.
Indigo (from Indigofera tinctoria) provides the blue-black component. Indigo does not hold well on hair by itself, which is why it is layered over or mixed with henna. Together they let you build up shades from chestnut brown to near-black, depending on the ratio and method.
How to use: the two-step method (for darker results)
- Mix henna powder with warm water (or brewed tea/coffee) into a smooth yoghurt-like paste. Let it rest for 4-6 hours or overnight so the colour releases.
- Apply to clean, dry hair section by section. Leave for 1-2 hours, then rinse with plain water only (no shampoo yet).
- The next day, or after a few hours, mix indigo powder with warm water and a pinch of salt. Use it immediately — indigo does not need long resting time.
- Apply the indigo paste over the henna-treated hair, leave for 45 minutes to 1 hour, then rinse.
- Avoid shampoo for a day so the colour settles and darkens fully.
The single-mix method (for brown tones)
If you prefer brown shades and want to save time, mix henna and indigo together in one bowl. A rough guide:
- Light brown: more henna, less indigo (about 2:1).
- Medium brown: equal parts henna and indigo (1:1).
- Deeper brown/black-ish: more indigo, but the two-step method still gives the darkest, most reliable black.
Add warm water to make a paste, apply, leave 1-2 hours and rinse. Results vary with your natural hair colour and grey percentage.
Beyond hair colour
Both powders are popular in homemade hair masks and simple face packs. Henna is often blended with amla or fenugreek for a strengthening hair pack. Indigo is sometimes added in small amounts to conditioning mixes. Always keep the paste away from the eye area.
Tips and safety notes
- Patch test first. Apply a little paste to your inner arm and wait 24 hours to rule out sensitivity, especially if you have never used plant dyes.
- Wear gloves and cover your shoulders — henna stains skin, nails and fabric.
- Colour deepens over 24-48 hours; the shade you see right after rinsing is not the final result.
- Use stainless steel, glass or plastic bowls, not aluminium.
- For external use only. Do not ingest. Keep away from children.
- If you have chemically treated, bleached or recently coloured hair, do a strand test before full application.
Buying and storage
Good herbal powders should smell fresh and earthy, be finely milled and free of grit. Azlok offers this combo as 100 g of each powder, which is enough for a few applications on short to medium hair. Store both powders in an airtight container, away from moisture, heat and direct sunlight. Mix only what you need each time, as prepared paste does not keep well. Dry powder stays usable for months when sealed properly.
FAQ
Can I get black hair by using only indigo?
No. Indigo needs a henna base to hold. For black, apply henna first, then indigo (the two-step method). Indigo alone usually gives a weak, uneven result.
How long does the colour last?
Plant-based colour typically lasts a few weeks and fades gradually rather than showing a harsh regrowth line. Regular touch-ups keep it looking even.
Do I need to add anything to the paste?
Warm water is enough. Some people add tea, coffee or a little lemon to henna for tone, and a pinch of salt to indigo to help it adhere. Keep additions simple.
Will it work on grey hair?
Yes, but grey hair can grab colour differently. Henna may look bright orange on grey until indigo is applied over it, so the two-step method gives the most natural coverage.
How much do I need for one application?
Short hair usually needs around 50-100 g total, medium hair a bit more, and long or thick hair may need two packs. It is better to mix slightly extra than to run short mid-application.