Struggling with stubborn greys or wanting to ditch the harsh chemical black dyes that leave your hair brittle? We understand the frustration. The solution isn't a new invention; it's the traditional "Two-Step Process" that guarantees rich, raven-black results while conditioning your strands. For a full overview of the science and benefits, read our Ultimate Guide to Indigo Powder.
What You Need (Ingredients & Tools)
To get the best results, precision matters. This routine requires two distinct stages: The Henna Base (Step 1) and The Indigo Overlay (Step 2).
- Spierb Organic Henna Powder: 100g (Adjust for hair length)
- Spierb Indigo Powder: 100g (Equal amount to Henna)
- Warm Water: Approx 1-2 cups per powder batch
- Table Salt: 1 teaspoon (To help Indigo bind)
- Tools: Non-metallic bowl, mixing spoon, gloves (essential!), shower cap, and old towels.
The Recipe: The "Jet Black" Routine
Unlike chemical dyes, you cannot mix Henna and Indigo together in one bowl for jet black results on grey hair. You must layer them.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Step 1: The Henna Base (Prime the Hair): Mix your Spierb Henna with warm water until it feels like mashed potatoes. Let it sit for 8-12 hours for dye release. Apply to clean hair, wrap, and leave for 3-4 hours. Rinse with water only. Your hair will be copper/orange—don't panic, this is the necessary primer!
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Step 2: Mix the Indigo (Timing is Key): While your hair is damp from rinsing the Henna, mix the Spierb Indigo Powder with warm water and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir until it reaches a yogurt-like consistency. Note: Do not wait! Indigo releases dye immediately.
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Step 3: Application: Immediately apply the Indigo paste generously over the damp, orange-hennaed hair. Ensure thick coverage, especially on roots/greys.
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Step 4: The Wait: Cover with a shower cap to keep the paste moist (Indigo stops working if it dries). Leave on for 2 hours.
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Step 5: Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with cool to lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
- Step 6: No Shampoo: Do not use shampoo for at least 48 hours to allow the color to oxidize and settle. Condition if necessary.
Pro-Tips for Success
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Tip 1: Indigo is demure. If you find the black isn't deep enough, add a pinch of salt to the indigo mixture—it helps drive the dye molecule into the hair shaft.
- Tip 2: Work fast with Indigo. Unlike Henna, which loves a long soak, Indigo dye creates its bond within the first 20 minutes of mixing. Get it on your head quickly!
What to Expect (Results)
Natural botanical colors evolve over time.
- Immediate: Your hair may look slightly greenish or blue-black right after rinsing. This is normal.
- Long Term: Over the next 48 hours, as the air hits your hair (oxidation), the color will deepen into a rich, jet black. With repeated use (3 months), your hair texture will become thicker and glossier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does indigo powder turn grey hair black?
Yes, but only if you use the two-step method. If you apply Indigo directly to grey hair without the Henna step, it will turn blue or green. The Henna acts as a base coat (orange) that the Indigo (blue) binds to, creating black.
How to apply indigo powder for best results?
Apply it to damp, clean hair immediately after mixing. Use a shower cap to trap heat and moisture, which encourages the dye to penetrate the cuticle.
Can I use indigo without henna for black hair?
No. Indigo is a blue-violet dye. Without the orange pigment of Henna underneath it to neutralize the color, Indigo on light or grey hair will result in a cool blue or green tone.
