How to colour hair with beetroot: Steps and benefits

Beetroot is a nutrient-dense superfood that may be good for your gut, boosting energy levels and preventing anemia. The deep red root vegetable is also a natural powerhouse for healthy hair. It may help with hair loss, a common problem among young and older adults. It also works as a natural hair dye, giving gray hair a beautiful red tint. If you choose to use beetroot for your hair, you don’t have to worry about toxic chemicals damaging your hair. Plus, you don’t have to go to a salon to dye your mane because you can dye your hair naturally at home! But what is the right way to do it? Let us help you.

What are the benefits of beetroot for hair?

Here are some of the benefits of beetroot for hair:

1. Promote hair growth

Use beetroot for hair care as it increases circulation to the scalp, providing oxygen and nutrients that are beneficial to the hair follicles. “Better blood flow to the scalp means better nutrition, which is important for people with slow or thinning hair,” says cosmetic physician and esthetician Dr. Karuna Malhotra.

2. Prevent hair loss

The iron and folate in beetroot help prevent anemia-related hair loss, a common problem for many women. According to the USDA, 100 grams of beets contain 0.8 milligrams of iron and 109 micrograms of folate.

3. Control dandruff

When used as a natural conditioner or hair mask, its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties help soothe the scalp and reduce dandruff. It can be used to fight dandruff, according to an analysis published in the Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemical Research.

4. Prevent hair from turning gray prematurely

A study published in Dermatology & Treatment suggests that iron, folate and selenium deficiencies may lead to premature graying of hair. You can use beetroot as a hair treatment to improve premature graying of hair as these nutrients are present in the root vegetable. “Plus, it nourishes the scalp and hair shaft, so it increases natural shine and reduces dullness,” say experts.

How to dye hair naturally with beetroot?

You can use beetroot to dye your hair as it is an excellent natural alternative for those who want to avoid chemical hair dyes. It gives hair a reddish or burgundy appearance, which is especially noticeable in sunlight. “Use beetroot for hair because it not only colors the mane naturally but also conditions and nourishes it,” says Dr. Malhotra.

Here’s how to use beetroot to dye your hair:

1. Take 2 large beetroots and chop them into small pieces. Place the pieces in a juicer or blender to juice.
2. Mix the juice with 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil (such as coconut oil) to form a uniform paste that can be easily applied to your hair.
3. Apply the mixture evenly to your hair, focusing on the areas you want to dye red.
4. After using beetroot to color your hair, cover your mane with a shower cap.
5. Let it sit for at least 1 to 2 hours as this time will help the color deepen.
6. Rinse thoroughly with cold or warm water after about 2 hours. Avoid shampooing immediately and wait 24 hours for the natural color to set.

Before and after care when using beetroot to dye your hair

While beetroot is a natural and safe ingredient, properly preparing your hair and caring for it after coloring can greatly improve the results, longevity, and health of your hair.

Here’s what to do before using beetroot to dye your hair:

• To perform patch testing: It’s rare, but some people may be sensitive to beetroot juice. So, apply a little of the prepared mixture behind your ears or on the inside of your elbows and wait for 24 hours before using beetroot to dye your hair.
• Wash your hair the day before dyeing: Use a mild shampoo to wash away any residue, oil or styling products. Avoid using conditioner after washing your hair as it may form a coating that blocks dye absorption.
• Comb your hair: Comb your hair thoroughly to remove knots. “This ensures even application and helps the natural hair dye reach every strand,” experts say.
• Protect skin: When using beetroot to dye your hair, apply petroleum jelly or coconut oil to your hairline, ears and neck to prevent staining. Wear gloves when using beetroot to dye your hair to avoid staining your hands red.

Post-operative care tips

• Avoid washing your hair within 24 hours: Don’t wash your hair for a day or two to allow the color to blend into the hair shaft. If necessary, rinse with water only for the first time and avoid shampooing immediately after use.
• Use a sulfate-free shampoo: When you wash your hair after a day or two, use a mild, colorfast shampoo. “Sulfates can strip your hair of its natural and artificial color, so don’t use them,” experts say.
• Calorie restricted styling: Avoid blow-drying, straightening or curling your hair for one to two days after using beetroot dye. Heat may reduce the vibrancy of natural tones.
• Weekly deep status: Use a natural hair mask containing aloe vera, yogurt or coconut milk to restore moisture and enhance shine. “Beetroot can become slightly drying if used regularly, so hydration is key,” say experts.

What are the side effects of using beetroot for hair dye?

Beetroot can be used as a natural hair dye. Others may encounter:

• Scalp irritation or allergic reaction
• Temporary staining of skin or clothing
• If overused, it can cause dryness. You can reapply every 7 to 10 days to create and maintain vibrant color, but don’t use more than two beetroots at a time.

“Always do a patch test and use beetroot treatments in moderation to avoid adverse reactions,” warns Dr. Malhotra.

Eating beetroot is good for your health. You can also use beetroot for hair, especially to give your hair a beautiful red tint. However, do a patch test before using this natural hair dye.