Indigo powder is a simple way to add deeper, cooler-looking tones to hair using a single, plant-based cosmetic powder. This how-to shows you how to use indigo powder for best results — with practical timing, mixing tips, and aftercare for a smoother, more even finish.
What this routine does
Using indigo powder in this way can help to:
- Create deeper, cooler brunette tones or near-black results (depending on your starting colour)
- Make hair colour look richer and more even, especially on roots
- Support a glossier-looking finish when you rinse well and follow simple aftercare
This is a cosmetic routine for external use only. Results vary by starting hair colour, porosity, previous dye history, and how long you leave the paste on.
Who this how-to is for
- You want deeper brunette to black-toned results using a plant-based powder routine
- You’re happy to do a quick, slightly time-sensitive mix-and-apply process (indigo works best when used fresh)
- You want a beginner-friendly method with realistic expectations and a simple aftercare plan
- You’re open to doing a strand test first — especially if your hair is lightened, porous, or previously coloured
If your hair is very lightened, very porous, or you have highlights, always strand test first — indigo can grab unevenly and may look cooler or slightly muted on porous sections.
Before you start
- Patch test: Patch test 24–48 hours before first use and whenever you change your mix. If you notice irritation, redness or discomfort, rinse and do not use on the scalp.
- Strand test: If you have bleached, highlighted, very porous, or previously dyed hair, test a small hidden section first to check the tone and timing.
- Clarify first: For best grip, wash with shampoo before you apply (skip heavy conditioners, oils, or serums on the day).
- Protect skin & surfaces: Wear gloves and apply a barrier cream along the hairline. Indigo can stain towels, grout, and clothing, so use an old towel and wipe splashes quickly.
- Know the “henna base” tip: If your goal is dark brown to black or you want better grey coverage, indigo usually performs best over a henna base. You can still use indigo alone, but results may be softer or less long-lasting depending on your hair.
How to use indigo powder for best results
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Start with clean, product-free hair.
Shampoo first and rinse well. Towel-dry to damp (not dripping). Avoid oils, leave-ins, and silicone-heavy products before application. -
Decide your approach: indigo alone or over a henna base.
Indigo alone: best for adding a cooler, deeper cast on medium to dark hair.
Over a henna base: best for deeper brown/black results and typically more reliable on greys. If you’ve done a henna base, apply indigo on the same day once hair is rinsed and towel-damp. -
Measure your indigo powder.
As a starting point: short hair 50–75 g, shoulder-length 100–150 g, long/thick hair 200 g+. If you’re doing roots only, 30–60 g is often enough. Adjust next time based on coverage. -
Mix fresh with warm water (use immediately).
Place the powder in a non-metallic bowl. Add comfortably warm water slowly while stirring until you get a smooth, yoghurt-like paste that spreads easily but doesn’t drip. Use right away — indigo is time-sensitive and works best when freshly mixed. -
Optional: add a pinch of salt for grip.
Many people add salt to help the paste bind. A simple guide is about ½ teaspoon per 50 g of indigo. Keep it minimal — too much can feel drying for some hair types. -
Apply quickly in sections, focusing on roots first.
Put on gloves. Section the hair and apply paste generously from roots to ends (or roots only if that’s your goal). Press the paste into the hair for even saturation — indigo needs good contact for consistent results. -
Cover and keep it slightly warm.
Cover with a shower cap or cling film to prevent drying out. If your room is cold, wrap a towel over the cap. A warm, covered application often helps the paste stay workable and reduces patchiness. -
Leave on for the right time window for your goal.
Typical ranges (strand test if unsure):
Cooler cast / deeper tone: 20–45 minutes
Medium to deep brown (often over henna): 45–75 minutes
Near-black (usually over henna): 75–120 minutes
If your hair is dry or porous, start with the shorter end and build up next time. -
Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water.
Rinse until the water runs mostly clear and hair no longer feels gritty. Massage the scalp gently with fingertips while rinsing. Take your time — thorough rinsing makes a big difference to feel and finish. -
Skip shampoo right after (for best staying power).
Avoid shampoo for 24–48 hours if you can. If you need slip on the ends, use a small amount of lightweight conditioner on mid-lengths to tips only, then rinse again.
Rinsing & aftercare
- Be patient with rinsing: Indigo paste can cling. Use warm water and keep rinsing until hair feels clean and smooth, not sandy.
- Dry gently: Squeeze with a towel — don’t rub. Indigo can transfer onto towels, so choose an older dark towel.
- Wait before heavy products: For the first 24–48 hours, keep styling simple. If you use oils or heavy leave-ins, use a small amount on the ends only.
- Expect slight tone settling: Indigo results can look a little different once fully dry and after the first day. That’s normal for plant-based colour routines.
How often to use indigo
- To maintain a darker tone: Every 2–4 weeks, or when you notice fading at the roots or through greys.
- For roots/grey blending: Every 3–6 weeks depending on regrowth speed and the look you prefer.
- If hair feels dry: Reduce frequency, shorten the processing time, and focus application on roots rather than repeatedly coating the ends.
Indigo routines are very individual — small tweaks to timing, thickness, and rinsing often make the biggest difference.
FAQs
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Can I use indigo powder on its own?
Yes, but results depend heavily on your starting colour and hair porosity. On darker hair, it can add a cooler, deeper tone. For deeper brown/black results and typically better grey coverage, indigo often performs best over a henna base. -
How do I avoid patchy results?
Start on clean hair, mix to a smooth paste, apply quickly in small sections, and use plenty of product so every strand is coated. Keep the paste covered so it doesn’t dry out, and rinse thoroughly. -
Is indigo OK on coloured or bleached hair?
Many people use indigo on previously coloured hair, but lightened/bleached or very porous hair can grab unevenly or pull cooler. Always strand test first and start with shorter processing times. -
Do I need to add salt or anything else?
You don’t have to. Some people add a small pinch of salt to help binding, but keeping the mix simple (indigo + warm water) is a good starting point. If your hair tends to feel dry, skip salt and focus on careful aftercare. -
Why should I avoid shampoo straight after?
Skipping shampoo for 24–48 hours can help the colour look more settled and improve staying power. If you need softness, use a little conditioner on the lengths only. -
Is it suitable for sensitive scalps?
Spierb Indigo Powder is a single-ingredient cosmetic powder for external use only. Everyone’s skin is different, so patch test first and discontinue use if you notice irritation or discomfort.
