How to Darken Hair Naturally

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Expert-approved ways to make your hair darker without dye
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Want to darken your hair without dyeing it? Maybe you want to cover some grays or deepen a light brown shade. No matter the reason, we’ve got all of the best natural home remedies for you! These methods don’t use harsh chemicals or dyes to color your hair—instead, they use natural pigments you can likely find at home. We spoke to beauty and skincare specialist Barbie Ritzman to bring you the best advice, so keep reading to learn how you can darken your hair naturally.

The Best Ways to Darken Your Hair at Home

  • Soak your hair in black tea.
  • Soak your hair in coffee.
  • Color your hair with henna paste.
  • Massage warm mustard oil all over your hair.
  • Apply a paste of amla powder and water to your hair.
Section 1 of 4:

Home Remedies to Darken Hair Naturally

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  1. Black tea has natural tannins or dyes that may help darken your hair. Plus, it’s been scientifically proven that the vitamins in black tea can help strengthen hair and reduce shedding. [1]
    • How to use , according to Ritzman:
      • Brew a strong pot of black tea and let it cool.
      • Place the tea in a large bowl.
      • Dip and soak your hair in the tea for at least 15 minutes.
      • Wash your hair in lukewarm water.
      • Repeat every 2 weeks for the best results. [2]
    • Pro tip: Try a variation with different tea leaves to richen your color and add a beautiful fragrance. For instance, steep 3 tbsp (44.36 ml) of black tea with 1 tbsp (14.79 ml) of rosemary leaves.
  2. Coffee naturally contains dark pigments that can stain hair and be used as a chemical-free dye. Some studies even claim that the caffeine in the coffee can help stimulate hair growth. [3]
    • How to use , according to Ritzman:
      • Brew a strong pot of coffee (roughly enough to make 3 cups).
      • Let the coffee cool down.
      • Place the coffee in a large bowl.
      • Dip and soak your hair in the coffee for several seconds
      • Wash and rinse your hair in lukewarm water.
      • Repeat this process until your hair is a tone you like.
    • Pro tip: Try a variation to help the coffee stain your hair for longer. Mix 2 cups (480 ml) of leave-in conditioner with 2 tbsp (29.57 ml) of coffee grounds and 1 cup (240 ml) of brewed coffee. Add this to your hair and leave it for an hour before rinsing it out.
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  3. Henna is a natural dye that can darken your hair with a reddish hue. Depending on your natural hair color, you can turn your hair a rich brown or copper with this method. Henna is a great way to conceal gray hair or add richness to dull hair. [4]
    • How to use :
      • Follow the powder’s instructions to create a henna paste. Some powders require the paste to sit for several hours before applying, so plan ahead.
      • Divide your hair into sections. Aim to have at least 6: 2 at the nape of your neck, 2 near the center of your head, and 2 at the top.
      • Apply the henna paste to your hair section by section with gloved hands or a hair dye brush.
      • Wrap your head in plastic wrap or a shower cap.
      • Let the henna sit in your hair as long as the product instructs.
      • Wash out the henna until the water runs clear.
      • Repeat the process when the color fades, giving yourself 1 to 2 weeks of time between treatments. [5]
    • Pro tip: Consider using indigo powder dye after a henna treatment to add more black into your hair. Simply follow the instructions on the back of the natural dye, similar to the henna.
    • Safety: Ritzman advises to check the ingredients list on henna products, as some manufacturers combine the natural powder with harmful chemicals. Beware that henna is very potent and can stain your skin, shower, and sheets.
  4. While there’s little scientific evidence to back up this claim, mustard oil is believed to help hair grow and darken hair naturally. [6] This is because mustard oil is a natural stimulant that improves blood circulation. When used on the scalp, it could strengthen hair follicles and potentially darken them.
    • How to use:
      • Warm up the mustard oil in the microwave or on the stovetop to be slightly warmer than room temperature.
      • Apply the oil to your hair using your fingers or a hair dye brush , starting at the ends and working your way up.
      • Massage the oil into your scalp, and ensure it’s evenly distributed.
      • Wrap your hair in a shower cap and wait at least 2 hours.
      • Wash your hair with a mild shampoo until it no longer feels oily.
      • Repeat this process up to 3 times a week for the best results.
    • Safety: Be sure to purchase the cooking oil, not the essential oil; essential mustard oil can irritate the skin. Stop using the oil immediately if you experience any skin irritation. Note that mustard oil is for external use only. [7]
  5. Amla powder or Indian gooseberry is high in vitamin C and believed to improve hair pigmentation. Plus, with its richness in antioxidants, this powder may even help strengthen your hair follicles and slow down graying (although this is not scientifically proven). [8]
    • How to use:
      • Mix together 2 tsp (9.86 ml) of amla and 1 tsp (4.92 ml) of hot water to form a paste.
      • Stir 3 tsp (14.8 ml) of conditioner into the paste.
      • Wet your hair.
      • Apply the mixture to your hair, distributing it evenly across your scalp and roots.
      • Leave the mixture in your hair for 30 to 90 minutes.
      • Wash your hair with lukewarm water.
      • Repeat this process once a week for the best results.
    • Pro tip: For a richer color, try adding methi or fenugreek seeds to your amla paste. Simply soak the seeds in water overnight, grind them into a paste, and add them to the amla mixture.
    • Safety: There are no major side effects associated with using amla powder; however, stop using it immediately if you experience dryness, itchiness, or redness.
  6. Black walnut shells have a natural dye in them called juglone, and when extracted, it could help darken your hair (although this isn’t scientifically proven). [9] This method will give your hair a deep, brown hue, especially if you have naturally lighter hair. [10]
    • How to use:
      • Crush walnut shells into a powder.
      • Boil the powder for 30 minutes.
      • Let the mixture cool.
      • Strain the water into a container, removing any leftover clumps of powder.
      • Apply the tinted water to your hair evenly with your hands, squeeze bottle, or applicator brush.
      • Allow the dye to sit in your hair for at least 1 hour. The longer you wait, the darker your hair will be.
      • Wash out the dye with lukewarm water.
      • Repeat the process when the color starts to fade.
    • Pro tip: If you don’t feel like crushing walnut shells yourself, purchase some crushed walnut powder .
    • Safety: Juglone can be toxic to plants but is relatively safe for human external use. [11]
  7. As Ritzman explains, “curry leaves are known to have darkening ingredients that can help with the pigment of hair.” Combining curry leaves and coconut oil can create an enriching oil tint that moisturizes, nourishes, and adds pigment to your hair.
    • How to use, according to Ritzman:
      • Boil curry leaves in coconut oil for about 20 minutes.
      • Strain the mixture, separating the oil from the leaves, and let cool.
      • Apply the oil to your hair.
      • Let the oil sit in your hair for at least 45 minutes.
      • Rinse and wash with lukewarm water.
      • Repeat regularly for the best results.
  8. Onion juice has been proven to improve hair follicle strength and minimize hair loss. [12] On top of this, many use onion juice to tone, as it’s said to help enrich existing dark hair. Because of this, using onion juice in your hair may be beneficial if you have hair with brown or black undertones.
    • How to use:
      • Grate or blend an onion to extract the juice.
      • Apply the juice to your scalp and throughout your hair.
      • Let the juice sit in your hair for 30 minutes.
      • Rinse and wash your hair with lukewarm water.
      • Repeat regularly for the best results.
  9. Switching up what products you use in the shower can make a big difference when it comes to naturally darkening your hair! Try using shampoos and conditioners designed for brunette or brown hair to easily darken your tones. These products work best on hair with already existing brown tones, as they can bring out your natural highlights while deepening the richness of your hair.
    • How to use:
      • Wash and condition your hair as normal.
    • Pro tip: If you don’t want to make a purchase, try mixing cocoa powder into your shampoo and conditioner for a cheaper alternative. This DIY method isn’t scientifically proven, but some swear by it. Simply add cocoa powder to your products in a 1:1 ratio. [13]
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Section 2 of 4:

Can gray hair turn dark again?

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  1. Graying hair is natural—it’s all about genetics! While there’s no way to reverse graying hair, there are plenty of ways to cover it up. [14] Using natural darkening methods like the ones in this article can help strengthen your hair while covering any whiteness. Similarly, chemical, traditional hair dyes can more permanently cover gray hair for a more youthful look.
    • While there’s no reversing already gray hair, there might be a way to stop the progression. Studies say that stressing less can help your hair stay pigmented longer. [15] So, focus on reducing stress and living a balanced, stress-free life. [16]
Section 3 of 4:

Can you darken your hair with your diet?

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  1. What you eat doesn’t directly impact the color of your hair. While eating a healthy, balanced diet is important for keeping your hair strong and healthy, it doesn’t ultimately change what color it is.
    • One study has shown that certain enzymes implemented into a diet could gradually alter the coats of cats and dogs; however, this test has yet to be studied on humans. [17]
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Section 4 of 4:

How to Have Healthy Hair

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  1. Overwashing your hair can do more damage than good. Your hair produces oils to nourish and protect your hair. If you wash them out too frequently, you can weaken your hair. So, aim to wash your hair only when needed. Experts recommend 2 to 3 times a week. [18]
    • You know your hair best! Do what’s best for your hair and schedule.
  2. Heat tools can damage your hair, so try to use them as little as possible. Let your hair air dry rather than using the blow dryer or rock braided waves over curling iron curls. [19]
    • If you have to use heat, use a low or medium setting on your heating tool and use a heat protectant to protect your hair as much as possible.
  3. Believe it or not, what you eat can impact how strong and shiny your hair is. Making sure you get enough vitamin B is a great way to ensure your locks stay gorgeous! Here are some foods you can add to your diet to keep your hair healthy : [20]
    • Rice
    • Tuna
    • Black beans
    • Acorn squash
    • Oats
    • Milk
    • Almonds
    • Eggs
    • Sunflower seeds
    • Sweet potatoes
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    Can toner darken blonde hair?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    Yes, especially if the hair has been recently lightened or if the toner is left on for a long time. To help reduce the chance of a toner making your hair too dark, condition your hair before toning it. You can even leave the conditioner in and rinse it out with the toner.
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  • Question
    Can you change your natural hair color?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    You cannot intentionally change the color of the hair growing out of your scalp. However, medical treatments, changes in hormones, and aging can change your natural color.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
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  • Question
    How do you make your hair darker?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    You can darken hair with many different stains and dyes. Tea, coffee, and even spices like cinnamon provide subtle darkening. For a more dramatic color change, try henna.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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      Tips

      • Always protect your clothes, skin, and work area before trying these hair-darkening methods, as oils and spices can stain. Simply use gloves, lay down towels or cloths, and line your skin with petroleum jelly .
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      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • Avoid doing things like applying lemon juice or olive oil to your hair and then going out in the sun, as it will lighten your hair.
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      Warnings

      • All of these products can stain anything they touch, especially the henna. When using these products, make sure you do not get them on your skin, nails, clothes, or the surfaces in your home.
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      • If you’re using a substance you haven’t used before, do a patch test on your skin 48 hours before you intend to use it, just to ensure that you don’t have any adverse reactions to it.
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      • If you dye your hair with a natural dye, consult your hairdresser before using a regular, chemical dye, as the natural and chemical products could interact with one another.
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      Expert Interview

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      References

      1. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23832356/
      2. ↑ https://greatist.com/health/black-tea-for-hair
      3. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3500065/
      4. ↑ https://ancientsunrise.blog/2022/08/10/maintaining-graying-brown-hair-with-henna-and-indigo/
      5. ↑ https://hennasooq.com/blogs/frontpage/common-mistakes-and-tips-henna-for-hair
      6. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9231528/
      7. ↑ https://www.poison.org/articles/mustard-and-mustard-oil-safety
      8. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9137578/
      9. ↑ https://www.acs.org/molecule-of-the-week/archive/j/juglone.html
      1. ↑ https://hairstylecamp.com/side-effects-of-black-walnut-powder-hair-dye/
      2. ↑ https://www.acs.org/molecule-of-the-week/archive/j/juglone.html
      3. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12126069/
      4. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/hair/g35215439/diy-dry-shampoo-recipes/
      5. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/hair-turn-gray-2017091812226
      6. ↑ https://www.cuimc.columbia.edu/news/its-true-stress-does-turn-hair-gray-and-its-reversible
      7. ↑ https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/gray-hair-can-return-to-its-original-color-mdash-and-stress-is-involved-of-course/
      8. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6286625/
      9. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/hair-scalp-care/hair/healthy-hair-tips
      10. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/hair-scalp-care/hair/healthy-hair-tips
      11. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/topics/skin-and-hair#skin-and-hair4

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To naturally darken your hair, start by brewing a strong pot of coffee and letting it cool completely. Then, pour the coffee over your hair or dip your hair into it. When you're finished, rinse your hair out and it should be a few shades darker! You can also naturally darken your hair by mixing equal parts cocoa powder and shampoo and then washing your hair with it every day. To learn other ways you can naturally darken your hair, like using mustard oil or henna powder, keep reading!

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