Applying mehndi (henna) to the hair is a natural and traditional way to enhance its color, condition, and overall health. Here’s how to apply mehndi for your hair:

Materials you will need:

1. Henna powder: Purchase high-quality, natural henna powder with no additives or chemicals. The color of the henna powder may vary from red to brown, depending on the source.
2. Mixing bowl: Use a glass, ceramic, or plastic bowl to mix the henna paste. Do not use metal bowls as they can react with the henna.
3. Lemon juice or water: You’ll need a liquid (lemon juice for a more red hue or water for a more brown hue) to mix with the henna powder.
4. Plastic wrap or shower cap: This will be used to cover your hair while the henna is processing.
5. Plastic gloves: To protect your hands from staining.
6. Application brush or your hands: You can apply henna using an application brush or your gloved hands.

Steps:

1. Prepare the henna paste: In a mixing bowl, gradually add henna powder to the lemon juice or water and mix it thoroughly until it forms a smooth, thick paste. The consistency should be like that of yogurt. Let the henna paste sit for a few hours or overnight to allow the dye to release.
2. Wash your hair: Shampoo your hair thoroughly to remove any dirt, oil, or product buildup. Towel-dry your hair.
3. Protect your skin: Apply a layer of petroleum jelly or a similar product along your hairline, ears, and the nape of your neck to prevent the henna from staining your skin.
4. Section your hair: Divide your hair into sections. This will make it easier to apply the henna evenly.
5. Apply the henna: Use an application brush or your hands to apply the henna paste evenly to each section of your hair, starting at the roots and working your way to the tips. Ensure that every strand is covered with henna.
6. Cover your hair: After you’ve applied the henna, gather your hair on top of your head and cover it with plastic wrap or a shower cap. This will help keep the henna moist and allow it to process effectively.
7. Wait: Leave the henna on your hair for 2-4 hours, depending on the desired intensity of color. The longer you leave it, the deeper the color will be.
8. Rinse and condition: After the processing time, rinse your hair thoroughly with water. You may need to shampoo your hair multiple times to remove all the henna. Follow up with a good-quality conditioner.
9. Dry your hair: Let your hair air dry or use a blow dryer.
10. Enjoy: Your hair will have a natural and beautiful color, and it will be conditioned and shiny. The color may develop further over the next 24-48 hours.

Keep in mind that henna may not provide drastic color changes; it enhances your natural color and adds red or brown undertones. If you have chemically treated hair, it’s essential to do a strand test first to ensure you like the results, as henna can interact with previous chemical treatments.