How Mehndi Can Cause Harm To Your Hair? 5 Potential Effects You Must Know

Mehndi or henna is a timeless and popular hair dye that has been used for centuries to achieve lustrous and shiny locks. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to impart a rich and reddish-brown natural hue to the hair while also providing conditioning benefits. Many people swear by mehndi as a natural and effective way to enhance their hair colour and texture. Whether used as a standalone treatment or combined with other natural ingredients, mehndi is a versatile and sought-after solution for those seeking to add depth and dimension to their hair.

But do you know apart from its numerous benefits, mehndi also has some potential side effects for the tresses? Here, we've listed some lesser-known harmful effects of mehndi that you should know before including it in your haircare regime.

Harmful Effects Of Mehndi On Hair

Allergic Reactions

Applying mehendi to hair can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Despite being generally considered safe, some people may exhibit an allergic response to the plant dye, leading to symptoms such as itching, redness, swelling or a rash on the scalp or skin.

Irritated Scalp

Mehendi application can also cause scalp irritation in some individuals, leading to discomfort, itching, burning or redness. This may be due to an allergic reaction or leaving the dye on for an extended period. Scalp irritation can cause inconvenience and distress.

Colour Change

Mehndi can result in colour variability with the final outcome depending on factors like Mehendi powder quality, application duration and natural hair colour. While Mehndi typically imparts a reddish-brown tint, the resulting colour may appear differently on various hair types and textures, leading to unpredictable results.

Potential side effects of applying mehndi on hair (Image Credits: istock)

Dryness And Brittleness

Mehndi's drying properties can cause dryness and brittleness in hair, especially with frequent use or prolonged application. The dye molecules strip away natural oils and moisture, adhering to the keratin in the hair shaft. This can leave hair feeling rough and prone to breakage.

Hair Texture Changes

Regular use of Mehndi on hair can lead to changes in texture over time. Despite its conditioning properties, some individuals may notice their hair becoming coarser or rougher. This texture change can be attributed to Mehndi's drying effect or the accumulation of dye molecules within the hair shaft.

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(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)