Why I Chose to Go Natural with My Hair and Beard

I never thought I'd become the guy mixing plant powders in the kitchen just to cover greys, but here I am, and I’m not going back to chemical dyes.

After years of watching my beard turn white and my scalp get itchy from drugstore dyes, I finally gave henna and indigo a shot. And honestly? Game changer.

Here’s my real, no-fluff guide to coloring short hair and beard naturally using the Organic Roots combo,the sunna-approved, 100% plant-based way.


Total Time: 5 Hours (But Worth Every Minute)

I use the two-step method, usually on weekends when I’ve got some time to spare.
🔶 Step 1: Henna Application (Hair + Beard)

 

🧪 My Mix:

  • Half a packet of Organic Roots Henna

  • Half a sachet of acid pH fruit powder

  • Lukewarm water
    (Mix to a toothpaste-like consistency and let it rest overnight for dye release.)

🕙 Application (Next Morning Around 10 AM):

  • I ask my maid (who's a pro with henna) to apply it. She uses gloves and applies layer by layer, starting from the roots to the tips.

  • Pro Tip: Double down on the temples, sides, and above the ears,those areas have the most stubborn greys.

  • Beard comes next. Apply before trimming because henna sticks better to longer strands. Trim later after coloring.

⏰ Leave Henna On: 4 Hours

  • Wash off with a commercial sulfate shampoo and warm water. Before applying henna, I always cleanse my hair with a sulfate-free shampoo.

  • Henna tends to crust, shampoo helps lift it cleanly.

🌀 I blow-dry afterward and rock the red/orange hue for a day. It looks fiery and bold. Some people stop here,but for a natural brown or black, step two is essential.

🔷 Step 2: Indigo Application (Hair + Beard)

If I’m feeling productive, I move on to indigo the same day. But usually, I wait a day.

🧪 Indigo Mix:

  • Half a packet of Organic Roots Indigo

  • Warm water + a pinch of salt
    (Mix and use immediately.....no resting time needed.)

💡 Stain-Prevention Tips:

  • Keep wet tissues or a towel handy.

  • Wipe along the hairline, beard edges, ears, neck, and forehead to avoid staining.

  • Wear an old T-shirt. Indigo stains everything.

⏱ Timing for Desired Shade:

  • 16 mins = Light Brown / Golden

  • 25 mins = Medium Brown

  • 35–40 mins = Natural Dark Brown (my go-to)

I usually leave it on 35 minutes, sometimes longer for a deeper brown. Wash off with  shampoo and conditioner .

Extra Tips for Men (Especially with Beards)

🧔 For the Beard:
Apply a thick layer, more than you think you need. Beard hair is coarse and can resist tinting, especially if trimmed short. Apply before trimming, then tidy it up after coloring.

💈 Application Help:
Don’t do it alone the first time. Either:

  • Ask your maid, barber, or a family member.

  • Tip someone (I pay mine Rs. 1000PKR per session).

  • Or visit your barber and take the powders with you,many are open to helping apply.

🎯 The Trick Is in the Roots:
Make sure no hair is left uncovered. Apply paste generously and press it down. Don’t just “coat the surface.”

 It’s More Than Just Color

Using Organic Roots Henna and Indigo has transformed my routine from a rushed chemical cover-up to a self-care ritual that’s healthier and long-lasting. No more allergic reactions, dry scalp, or synthetic smells. Just pure plant power and a deeper connection to tradition.

This isn’t just hair dye,it’s therapy, it’s a statement, and it’s sunna.