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10 Best Henna Powders for Hair and Hands in India 2021 - Buying Guide Reviewed by Henna Artist

Whether it’s mehendi for your hair or your hands, using good quality henna powder ensures your results are always the best. However, it can seem difficult to know what exactly makes certain henna powders better than others, especially in a country like ours, where there are endless options.

While there are some known brands like Shahnaz Husain and Godrej, there are also some new, relatively unknown ones like Radico and Hennaveda. Since it is hard to tell what makes henna powders different, in this article, we will discuss how you can choose the best mehendi powder and give you a list of the top 10 best henna powders available online in India. This article is reviewed by henna artist Neha Gupta, read more as she explains the colour of henna, the quality to look for, and more.
Last updated 07/14/2023
Neha Gupta
Expert
Henna Artist
Neha Gupta

Neha is the owner of Neha Henna Blossoms, it is an art and creativity promoting business mainly focussed on henna as a form of body art using only 100% Natural BAQ Henna and other organic ingredients.

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Table of Contents

In Collaboration With Henna Artist Neha Gupta

In Collaboration With Henna Artist Neha Gupta

Neha is a henna artist, she is also the owner of Neha Henna Blossoms. It is an art and creativity promoting business, mainly focussed on henna as a form of body art using only 100% Natural BAQ Henna and other Organic ingredients.

How to Choose Henna Powder in India – Buying Guide

It might seem easier to simply ignore the hassle of checking what makes henna powders different, but that would also increase the chance of getting disappointing results. In order to make sure you can buy the best product for your specific needs, here is a list of things you should keep in mind.

① Think About the Purpose You’re Buying Henna Powder For - Hair or Skin

One of the most important things you need to ask yourself before you buy anything is what purpose you’re buying for. Usually, people buy henna either to colour their hair or to apply it to their skin as body art. Based on these two uses, the type of henna you might want could be different.

If You’re Dyeing Your Hair, Use Natural and Chemical-Free Henna

If You’re Dyeing Your Hair, Use Natural and Chemical-Free Henna

If you’re planning to use henna powder to dye your hair, then you should go for all-natural and chemical-free options, as they won’t irritate the sensitive scalp. Such henna powders help those who want to cover greys and those who want to add a reddish tone to their hair.  


Natural henna also conditions the hair, making it much softer and glossier, unlike henna powders which contain unnecessary chemicals that can often damage your hair. It's also better to make sure that you're going for a 100% natural product; though it's already written on the package, we advise you to take a little step further and read the ingredients. 


Beware of the colored mehendi, as some sellers dye their henna powder, which is usually green, gives it an authentic look. However, pure henna will always give you an orangish-red color/stain. But in case it produces copper, black, or brownish tones, it probably means that it contains herbs like indigo, katam, and cassia. 

Neha Gupta
Henna ArtistNeha Gupta

Henna is a natural plant, Like any other plant(Beets - deep red, Turmeric - yellow), it makes only one colour that is orange-reddish tones. Henna powder can be mixed with other natural ingredients to enhance its colour and benefits. 


For deep brown/black colour, use natural Indigo powder followed by henna application or frequent henna applications on hair gives a deeper red tone. Few drops of organic essential oils (Lavender, Rosemary or Clary Saje) can improve hair strength and growth. Always use 100% pure henna powder from a reliable supplier or read ingredients on the box before purchasing it.

If You Want Henna for Body Art Mehendi, Look for PPD-Free Options

If You Want Henna for Body Art Mehendi, Look for PPD-Free Options
Simply known as mehndi or mehendi, decorating one’s hands and feet during festival season or weddings is a common practice in India. Although, there is no need for any special occasion, and some of us may just want to apply it for no particular reason.

You must be careful while buying mehendi powder for this purpose, though, because it can sometimes contain harmful chemicals such as PPD (para-phenylenediamine), which make the colour darker but are also known to cause allergic reactions.

Neha Gupta
Henna ArtistNeha Gupta

When using henna for body art, it is essential to use natural ingredients only. It is essential to understand that henna is perishable. Many suppliers add chemicals to henna paste, pre-filled cones to increase the shelf life of henna. These chemicals can cause skin rashes, itchiness or permanent scars. Avoid using Henna mixed with chemicals.

② Region/Country of Origin Determines the Stringiness and Colour

The texture and intensity of stain for henna often depend on where the henna has been sourced from. Henna grown in different regions has varying levels of colour intensity and stringiness, so you should choose the type that you think is the best for you.

If You Want Finer Lines and Crimson-Toned Stain, Prefer Moroccan Henna Powder

If You Want Finer Lines and Crimson-Toned Stain, Prefer Moroccan Henna Powder
Moroccan mehendi is stringier than the usual Indian mehendi, therefore, it is great for those who want designs with really fine lines. It also gives a slightly warmer, almost crimson-toned stain, so if you prefer that over the reddish-brown tone of most Indian henna, then this would be great for you.

However, Moroccan henna powder takes 3-6 hours to settle well on the skin and 1-2 hours for hair. One downside is that it’s not very easily available in India unless you want fine dark lines, we do not recommend it to everyone.

Neha Gupta
Henna ArtistNeha Gupta

Just like Morrocan argan oil, it’s one of the premium henna powders available in the market. It is rich, creamy, and has gorgeous colour results. It’s great for hair as it blends well to create brown to black tones without the red peeking through. 


Moroccan henna has a speedy dye release which helps save the wait time. The rich colour results on the skin are perfect for henna body artists. Observe the progression of how natural henna deepens over time.

People Looking for Easy Application and Brownish-Red Stain, Go With Rajasthani Henna Powder

People Looking for Easy Application and Brownish-Red Stain, Go With Rajasthani Henna Powder

One of the best types of mehendi in the world is produced right here in India, in the beautiful state of Rajasthan. If you’re looking for a henna powder that is affordable, easily available, and not too stringy, then this is one for you. 


The colour results from Rajasthani mehendi are also much darker/brownish-red stains, especially on skin, where it can sometimes be as dark as reddish-black. To get a darker color, you'll have to let it sit for 6-10 hours on the skin, and for hair, only after you leave the paste for 2-3 hours, it'll settle well on your hair. 

Neha Gupta
Henna ArtistNeha Gupta

It is very easy to prepare 100% natural henna paste at home using BAQ henna powder, sugar, essential oils and water for rich dark brown and red tones. Rich henna stain developments also depend on the body temperatures and thickness of the skin. 


For rich henna colour, use essentials oils high in 'terps' content, like cajeput, eucalyptus or tea tree. For those with sensitive skin, use lavender or blend it with other essential oils. For application on hair, mix natural henna with water. Other natural hair conditioning powders or essentials oils can be added.

③ If You Want to Get a Fine, Creamy Paste, Free of Lumps Henna, Prefer Finely Sifted Powder

If You Want to Get a Fine, Creamy Paste, Free of Lumps Henna, Prefer Finely Sifted Powder
To get a fine, creamy paste, free of lumps and unnecessary bits of sand and stones, you must make sure that the henna powder is finely sifted. Henna powder that is not sifted a few times can often make application harder, and the results will not be as clean either. 

You should have a look at the reviews to check whether the henna powder you’re interested in is finely sifted or not. Also, if you want to avoid clumps in your henna, we recommend you go for better quality henna. 

Neha Gupta
Henna ArtistNeha Gupta

Look for henna powders that are BAQ (Body Art Quality) as those are 100% natural and finely sifted for the sole purpose of application on skin and smooth designs. Body art quality (BAQ) henna is ground superfine and usually triple sifted to remove little bits of debris, twigs etc. BAQ henna can be used for either hair or body art. 

④ Dye Release Time Can Vary from 3-6 Hours, Check If It Works for You

Dye Release Time Can Vary from 3-6 Hours, Check If It Works for You
Dye release time refers to the amount of time the henna powder needs before it is ready for use. Depending on the powder, this time can greatly vary, going from 3-4 hours to almost 6-8 hours. 

Therefore, you must make sure that the dye release time is not too much of a hassle for you, and you can let the powder sit for the required time before use. It works differently for hair and skin. For skin, it might take lesser time, but for hair, you have to make the paste and keep it for 2-3 hours before applying. 

Neha Gupta
Henna ArtistNeha Gupta

Depending on the source or supplier of the henna powder, the time taken for dye release varies. Also, what ingredients you are mixing your henna with changes the dye release time


If you mix henna with high 'terp' content oils, the dye release process is faster. Moroccan henna powder releases dye faster than the Suraja Henna Powder. Experiment with different natural henna powders and ingredients to find one that suits your schedule.

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10 Best Henna Powders in India

Let us reveal our picks for the top 10 best henna powders to buy online in India. We have covered brands like Biotique, Merlion, Kama Ayurveda, and more, so get going!
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Godrej

Nupur Henna

Godrej  Nupur Henna 1枚目

100 % Henna with Natural Ingredients like Amla, Hibiscus

2

Shahnaz Husain

Henna Precious Herb Mix

Shahnaz Husain  Henna Precious Herb Mix 1枚目

Henna Powder With Burgundy Shade

3

Indus Valley

Bio Organic Herbal Henna Powder

Indus Valley  Bio Organic Herbal Henna Powder 1枚目

Henna with Natural Agents for Reddish Brown Shade

4

Kama Ayurveda

Organic Henna Powder

Kama Ayurveda  Organic Henna Powder 1枚目

Organic and Ayurvedic Henna Powder for a Long Lasting Reddish Brown Shade

5

Herbs and Crops

Natural Henna Powder

 Herbs and Crops  Natural Henna Powder 1枚目

Henna Powder With a Short Dye Release Time and an Auburn Shade

6

Hennaveda

Hair Henna Powder

Hennaveda  Hair Henna Powder 1枚目

All-Natural Henna With a Really Short Dye Release Time

7

Radico

Organic Henna Powder

 Radico  Organic Henna Powder 1枚目

Chemical-Free Mehendi for a Gorgeous Burgundy Shade

8

MERLION NATURALS

Organic Henna Leaves Powder

MERLION NATURALS  Organic Henna Leaves Powder 1枚目

All-Natural Henna for a Reddish Copper Tone

9

Biotique

Bio Henna Fresh Powder

 Biotique  Bio Henna Fresh Powder 1枚目

For those who Only Have a Few Grey Strands

10

Alba Rachni

Mehandi

Alba Rachni  Mehandi 1枚目

Big Pack of Mehendi for Those Who Like Designs With Fine Lines

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No.1

Godrej Nupur Henna

Nupur Henna Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹169.00

100 % Henna with Natural Ingredients like Amla, Hibiscus

If you want a henna powder that is not only famous in India but is loved by international audiences as well, then this is the one for you. In addition to henna, this Mehendi powder contains hair-darkening agents like hibiscus, bhringraj, Brahmi, and amla, so it not only colors the hair but also makes it healthier to slow down more greys from popping up.

The dye release time is around 12 hours, and you must leave it on for 6 to 8 hours to get a dark red shade, which will almost make it seem like you have highlights if you have dark brown hair. The color lasts for about 3-4 weeks, and since this isn’t too expensive, you can use it regularly without worrying about your budget too much as well!
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No.2

Shahnaz Husain Henna Precious Herb Mix

 Henna Precious Herb Mix Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹389.00

Henna Powder With Burgundy Shade

This henna powder contains 93% Mehendi powder, and the remaining 7% is made up of herbs like amla, neem, and so on that make the hair softer and reduce dandruff. It is recommended for those who’re fine with keeping henna on overnight to achieve a burgundy color and those who want something that’ll not fade for at least 4 weeks.

The dye release time is 4-6 hours, so we recommend preparing this mixture the night before you want to use it. We would also suggest you soak the Mehendi in black tea to make the color even darker.
No.3

Indus Valley Bio Organic Herbal Henna Powder

Bio Organic Herbal Henna Powder Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹94.00

Henna with Natural Agents for Reddish Brown Shade

Those looking for a henna powder that’ll not only help them color their hair to a reddish-brown shade but also improve its condition should go for this one. Aside from henna, it contains other hair darkening agents like amla, Brahmi, and bhringraj, which help prevent premature greying and make the hair glossier.

It is also really well sifted, so you won’t have any lumps and gritty bits when you make a paste. It contains no chemicals, and the dye release time is 6 hours, so if you make a mix at night, you can use it the following morning. You only need to keep it on for 45-90mins for the desired results, so it doesn’t take too long.
No.4

Kama Ayurveda Organic Henna Powder

Organic Henna Powder Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹675.00

Organic and Ayurvedic Henna Powder for a Long Lasting Reddish Brown Shade

If you’re looking for an organic and ayurvedic henna powder that’ll give you a feel of luxury, then this is the one for you. It doesn’t make the hair dry, dyes your hair to a reddish-brown shade if it is left on the hair for about 90mins., makes your hair smoother and glossier, and the colour lasts for almost 3 to 4 weeks.

Additionally, the shade is not dark enough for black hair, and many users have added coffee to the mixture to make the colour more intense. The brand advises doing a safety test if required by testing a few strands after applying the powder and waiting 24-48 hours for any changes.
No.5

Herbs and Crops Natural Henna Powder

 Natural Henna Powder Image 1
Source:flipkart.com
Reference price
₹160.00

Henna Powder With a Short Dye Release Time and an Auburn Shade

This henna powder is perfect for those who want something that uses just henna leaves, has no chemicals, and dyes their hair to a wonderful auburn shade. It has a considerably small dye release time of 3 hours, and aside from dyeing the hair, it also helps deal with dandruff and makes the hair much more lustrous.

If you want a multipurpose henna product that you can use on your hands or feet for body art, there are other options to look for. This one is specifically made for dyeing and conditioning the hair.
No.6

Hennaveda Hair Henna Powder

Hair Henna Powder Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹240.00

All-Natural Henna With a Really Short Dye Release Time

Those looking for a chemical-free henna powder with a short dye release time of about 1.5 to 2 hours should go for this product. You don’t even need to keep it on your hair for too long, as most reviewers claim a minimum of 90 mins is sufficient for a dark orange shade, although you could keep it on for longer to reach a reddish-brown.

It is not very viable to use for body art. Additionally, the quantity is limited, and while it wouldn’t be a problem for those with short to medium length hair, the quantity would not be enough for those who have slightly longer hair.
No.7

Radico Organic Henna Powder

 Organic Henna Powder Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹198.00

Chemical-Free Mehendi for a Gorgeous Burgundy Shade

This henna powder is perfect for those who want an all-natural option to color their hair to a gorgeous burgundy shade. You must keep the henna on your hair for at least 6 hours to get the color, but once it’s achieved, it lasts for a minimum of three weeks.

The henna can be used to create body art as well; This henna is good to condition the hair strengthen them, and soften them. It has received good reviews from the buyers. Overall, it is a viable option for Burgundy shade color for your hair.
No.8

MERLION NATURALS Organic Henna Leaves Powder

 Organic Henna Leaves Powder Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹299.00

All-Natural Henna for a Reddish Copper Tone

If you’re looking for a henna powder to dye your hair to a beautiful reddish copper tone, then this is the one for you. It contains no chemicals, so it is safe for those with sensitive skin as well. It is also great for those who want something that will color their hair and want it to make their hair appear glossier.

It does have a prolonged dye release time, though, almost 12 hours, and you need to keep it on for 3-4 hours to get the best results. The product specifically talks about dyeing hair and no mention of body art. Overall, this henna has received good feedback from reviewers on e-commerce sites.
No.9

Biotique Bio Henna Fresh Powder

 Bio Henna Fresh Powder Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹129.00

For those who Only Have a Few Grey Strands

This is a great product for those who do not have too many grey hair strands, so more than a color-focused product; they want a conditioning product. It contains several other ingredients like mango kernel and neem that help keep the hair softer, smoother, and glossier.


You need to keep the solution on for 30-40 mins on your hair for a good result. The color prescribed by the brand is natural brown color. The product has received mixed reviews from the reviewers as many users haven't received results as completely desired. Compare and buy the product if it fits your need.
No.10

Alba Rachni Mehandi

 Mehandi Image 1
Source:flipkart.com
Reference price
₹280.00

Big Pack of Mehendi for Those Who Like Designs With Fine Lines

Those preparing for a festival and need a huge Mehendi pack to share with friends and family would love this product. It has a stringier texture than most other henna powders, so it’s perfect for those who like designs with finer lines. Moreover, it is a 1 kg pack, so it is one of the most affordable options on the market, especially if you’re sharing it.

For those looking for something that you can use on your hair as well, then this isn’t the product for you as the color it gives is not dark enough to suit those with brown or black hair. It is specifically suitable for hand application.

How to Get Best Results From Henna?

There are a few things you might want to know before you use henna to make sure you get the best results.

Keep it Wrapped and Warm for Brighter Tones, Unwrapped and Cool for Cooler Tones

Keep it Wrapped and Warm for Brighter Tones, Unwrapped and Cool for Cooler Tones
If you’re more into slightly warmer shades, then you should keep your hair wrapped and warm to make sure you can achieve the brighter tones. On the other hand, if you prefer cooler shades, then you should keep your hair unwrapped and cool to make sure the henna will react in such a way that the end result is much cooler-toned.

Natural Henna Never Gives a Black Colour

Natural Henna Never Gives a Black Colour
One thing that you must be clear about is that natural henna never gives a proper black colour, it is always somewhere between orange to reddish-black. Depending on whether you waited long enough for the dye release before applying and how long you kept the henna on for, the results can differ.

If you do want slightly more brown-black results, you should follow up the henna with some indigo. The blueish-black from the indigo and the reddish-brown from the henna combine to make the most natural-looking colour for most Indian people.

Do a Strand Test on a Hidden Section of Hair

Do a Strand Test on a Hidden Section of Hair
In order to make sure that you’re not allergic to any of the ingredients, and that the shade you’ll get is to your liking, we recommend doing a strand test. What you do is that you use the henna on a small section of your hair that is hidden from view, so even if you do not like the results, at least you won’t have to worry about it being visible to everyone.

Multiple Applications Help Build the Colour

Multiple Applications Help Build the Colour
Since henna is an all-natural product, you need not worry about how often you’re using it. If you want to darken the shade you’ve got on the first application, you can apply henna again to make it much darker and less obvious. This is especially important for those with grey hair as the results from the first application would be quite light for them.

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Summary

Mehendi has been used in India for centuries, although for a long time people couldn’t buy it off the shelf, so the henna they used was often freshly produced. Therefore, they didn’t have to think as much before buying henna. However, nowadays, with the huge number of options on the market, it has become slightly more difficult to choose.

Top 5 Henna Powder

No. 1: Godrej | Nupur Henna

No. 2: Shahnaz Husain | Henna Precious Herb Mix

No. 3: Indus Valley | Bio Organic Herbal Henna Powder

No. 4: Kama Ayurveda | Organic Henna Powder

No. 5: Herbs and Crops | Natural Henna Powder

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