Add the tea to the lemon juice and add one tablespoon (0. 5 ounces) of almond oil. Stir to combine. [2] X Research source
When applying either of these as a highlighter, use a cotton ball to apply the liquids to sections of hair. [3] X Research source Keep an eye on the peroxide, as this may have to be washed out sooner (after 15 to 20 minutes even) than some of the other products. You can also use rhubarb in the same way to lighten hair. Dice a half cup (50 grams) of rhubarb root and boil it in a pot with four cups (one quart) of water for 20 minutes. [4] X Research source When cool, strain and apply the liquid to your hair with a cotton ball.
Be sure to wear gloves when applying henna, as it will dye your skin and nails as well.
Having clean hair will remove dirt, oil, and other particles that might prevent you from spreading your highlighting material evenly. When your hair is completely dry, comb through it with a wide-toothed comb or plastic-tipped brush.
Don’t apply the product to all your hair, but rather to certain sections, leaving the rest of your hair untouched. Try to balance the amount of hair you highlight so it’s even on both sides. When you’ve finished the bottom layer, let the middle layer down and repeat. Try not to overlap the highlighted sections of hair. Instead, stagger them from the highlighted sections on the bottom layer.
For the sections in the middle and back of your head, you can go back to using one-inch sections.
If you can’t get into the sun during this time, pile your hair on top of your head and wrap your hair in plastic wrap or cover it with a shower cap instead. Henna generally stays on for one to four hours, or until you achieve the desired intensity. When you’ve finished applying it, wrap your hair in plastic.
Henna is a more powerful dye, so you will likely see results after a single application, and won’t have to repeat the process bi-weekly. If you’ve chemically colored your hair, you likely won’t be able to lighten your hair with these natural methods.