Henna and Other Hair Color

Hair color boxes
Photo: Weho/Shutterstock
Q: What will happen to my hair if I apply Revlon ColorStay over henna that is already on my hair?
 
A: It seems you might be referring to Revlon’s Colorsilk hair color rather than ColorStay, which is actually Revlon’s cosmetics line (including foundations and lip products). Applying conventional hair dye, such as Colorsilk, over henna can be tricky and may lead to unpredictable results. This is because henna is a natural colorant that coats the hair shaft rather than penetrating it like synthetic dyes.
 
Henna is typically oil-based and forms a protective layer around each strand, which can block chemical hair dyes from properly adhering to the hair. As a result, the new color might turn out uneven, patchy, or fail to take altogether. Many people who wish to transition from henna to traditional hair color find that they first need to remove or significantly fade the henna to achieve the desired outcome.
 
If you want to switch from henna to a commercial dye like Revlon Colorsilk, removing the henna buildup is highly recommended. Here’s a safe and effective method:
 
1. Apply Warm Mineral Oil - Generously coat your hair with warm (not hot) mineral oil, ensuring full saturation from roots to ends.
 
2. Cover with a Plastic Cap - This helps trap heat and allows the oil to penetrate, loosening the henna’s grip on the hair.
 
3. Wait 25-30 Minutes - Let the oil sit to break down the henna’s coating.
 
4. Shampoo Thoroughly - Use a clarifying shampoo to wash out the oil along with the henna residue. You may need to repeat the shampooing process to fully remove the oil.
 
Some people report that certain henna brands (especially those with metallic salts or added dyes) require multiple removal sessions before the hair is ready for chemical coloring. The advantage of this method is that mineral oil is gentle and won’t damage your hair, though you may need extra shampooing to eliminate any lingering greasiness.
 
For best results, consider doing a strand test with your chosen dye after henna removal to check for color accuracy and hair condition before applying it to your entire head.
 
©Hairfinder.com
 
See also:
 
How to dye your hair
 
How to color your hair with Henna
 
Problems with traditional hair color after using henna
 
Natural dye with henna and the hair not absorbing color