Henna and Indigo Hair Colour Recipe for Grey Hair Touch-Up (Step-by-Step Guide)

Struggling with stubborn grey strands, but don’t want to use chemical hair dyes? You’re not alone. Our recent viral video on natural henna and indigo application has helped thousands safely touch up grey hair at home, and today, we're breaking down the full process in this guide.

Why Henna + Indigo Is the Best Natural Hair Dye Combo

Henna (Lawsonia inermis) gives hair an orange-red tint, while Indigo (Indigofera tinctoria) adds a deep blue hue. When used together, they naturally cover greys and create rich brown to black tones, without ammonia, PPD, or harsh chemicals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For Henna Paste (Step 1):

Pure Henna Powder – 3–4 tablespoons (adjust based on length)
Black Tea or Coffee Decoction – to mix the paste
1 tsp Amla Powder – to balance the red tone
1 tsp Fenugreek Powder – optional, for hair conditioning
Iron Bowl (optional) – to darken henna naturally

For Indigo Paste (Step 2):

Pure Indigo Powder – same amount as henna
Warm Water – to mix into a smooth paste
Pinch of Salt – improves colour uptake

Step-by-Step Application

Step 1: Apply Henna

Mix henna powder with black tea (or coffee) to form a thick paste.
Let it rest for 4–6 hours (or overnight).
Apply to clean, dry hair with gloves.
Leave for 1–2 hours.
Rinse with plain water. Do not use shampoo.

Step 2: Apply Indigo

Mix indigo powder with warm water and a pinch of salt.
Use immediately — indigo oxidises fast.
Apply evenly to hennaed hair.
Leave on for 1–2 hours (longer = darker shade).
Rinse off with water. Shampoo only after 24–48 hours.

Colour Results Based on Ratio

Henna: Indigo	Result Shade
100 : 0	Bright Orange-Red
1 : 1	Soft Brown
1 : 2	Deep Brown
1 : 3+	Natural Black

For touch-ups, focus application on the roots and greys only.

Why This Recipe Works

100% natural ingredients
Free from chemicals, PPD, ammonia
Safe for long-term use
Strengthens hair, improves texture
Helps maintain a uniform colour over time

Tips for Best Results

Always do a patch test.
Use high-quality, fresh henna and indigo powders (no additives).
Avoid oiling hair right before application.
For stubborn greys, increase indigo duration in the second step.
Store leftover powders in airtight containers away from moisture.

Where to Get the Ingredients

Use only pure, finely sifted henna and indigo for best results. Avoid pre-mixed or instant colours. Satthwa offers 100% pure, chemical-free henna and indigo powders ideal for this method.