We all love experimenting with our looks by getting new hairstyles and coloring our hair in different shades. While getting a fresh look is always exciting, it often comes at a cost if your hair isn’t cared for properly. Artificial dyes are packed with harsh chemicals that can strip your hair of its natural shine, leaving it brittle and prone to issues like hair fall and thinning.
But with a little research, you can switch to natural alternatives that come straight from organic sources. One such option is beetroot for hair color. Yes, you heard that right! Beetroot can give your hair a beautiful, glossy reddish tint and elevate your overall appearance.
This blog covers everything you need to know about using beetroot as a natural hair dye and how it can replace chemical-based coloring
So let’s get started!
What Makes Beetroot Suitable for Hair Dyeing?
Beetroot for hair color is a natural and gentle alternative to chemical dyes. It contains pigments called betalains, mainly betacyanin, which give it a rich reddish-purple tint that can lightly stain the hair. Along with adding color, beetroot is loaded with antioxidants, iron, and vitamins that nourish the scalp and strengthen hair. Its non-toxic, skin-friendly nature makes it safe for regular use, especially for those with dye allergies or sensitive skin. That’s why many prefer using beetroot for hair dye.
How to Colour Hair with Beetroot: 9 Easy Steps
Using beetroot for hair coloring requires understanding the right ingredients and following each step carefully for the best results.
1. Gather your ingredients
You’ll need 1–2 fresh beetroots, a blender or juicer, a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil, a mixing bowl, gloves, and an applicator brush.
2. Prepare the beetroot juice
Peel and chop the beetroot, then blend or juice it to get a fresh extract. Strain the juice to remove any pulp for a smooth consistency.
3. Mix with oil
Mix 1–2 tablespoons of coconut or olive oil into the beetroot juice. This helps condition your hair and makes the color spread evenly.
4. Protect your skin
Apply petroleum jelly or a thick moisturizer along your hairline, ears, and neck to avoid staining your skin.
5. Apply the mixture
Wearing gloves, use an applicator brush to apply the mixture to clean, dry hair, section by section.
6. Massage for coverage
Massage the mixture gently into your scalp and hair for even coverage from roots to tips.
7. Wrap your hair
Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap to trap heat and boost color absorption.
8. Wait and rinse
Let the mixture sit for 1–2 hours. Then rinse thoroughly with cool water (avoid shampooing immediately).
9. Repeat for intensity
For a deeper tint, repeat the process once or twice a week until you get the desired shade.
Benefits of Using Homemade Beetroot Hair Colour
Beetroot isn’t just a superfood for your body; it’s also a natural solution for healthier, more vibrant hair. From adding a subtle tint to boosting scalp health, beetroot offers multiple benefits without the harsh effects of chemical products.
Key Benefits of Using Beetroot for Hair:
Natural hair coloring
Beetroot gives your hair a soft reddish or pink tint, perfect for those seeking a temporary, chemical-free color boost.
Stimulates hair growth
Packed with vitamin C, iron, and folate, beetroot helps improve blood circulation in the scalp, encouraging stronger and faster hair growth.
Fights dandruff
Its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties help soothe itchy scalps and reduce flakiness, keeping dandruff under control.
Slows premature greying
The natural pigments and antioxidants in beetroot may help maintain your hair’s natural color and delay early greying.
Adds shine and softness
Regular use of beetroot can nourish hair from the roots, making it look shinier, healthier, and more manageable.
Safe and gentle
Beetroot is a toxin-free alternative to synthetic dyes, ideal for sensitive scalps and anyone avoiding harsh chemicals.
DIY Beetroot Hair Color Recipes for Natural Tint
Below is the list of simple DIY beetroot hair dye recipes that you can make at home and get a flawless appearance without worrying about any side effects.
1. Beetroot Juice Hair Mask
This is the easiest and purest form of using beetroot for hair coloring. It not only imparts a temporary reddish-pink tint but also hydrates the scalp, promotes shine, and strengthens hair follicles.
Ingredients:
- 1 large beetroot (grated or chopped)
- 2–3 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp coconut or olive oil
Steps:
- Make a thick juice by blending beetroot with water.
- Strain the juice to remove pulp.
- Mix in coconut or olive oil for moisture.
- Apply to your hair evenly using a brush or fingers.
- Cover with a shower cap and leave it on for 1–2 hours.
- Rinse thoroughly with water. Use a mild shampoo only if needed.
2. Beetroot & Henna Mix
Combining beetroot juice with henna creates a more intense, long-lasting burgundy or wine-red color. It’s a natural alternative for those who want to cover greys or achieve deeper shades without chemical dyes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup henna powder
- ½ cup fresh beetroot juice
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Water
Steps:
- Mix all ingredients into a thick, lump-free paste.
- Allow the mixture to sit for 3–4 hours to help release the natural dye.
- Apply the paste thoroughly to your hair.
- Leave on your head for 2–3 hours for a deeper color.
- Rinse with water until the paste is fully removed.
3. Beetroot & Black Tea Rinse
This rinse is perfect for subtle coloring and enhancing shine while also improving scalp health.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup beetroot juice
- ½ cup strong brewed black tea (cooled)
Steps:
- Combine beetroot juice with cooled black tea.
- Pour the rinse evenly over damp, clean hair.
- Leave it on for 30–60 minutes.
- Rinse with plain water.
4. Beetroot & Carrot Juice Blend
If you’re looking for a more coppery-red or warm auburn tone, this is the ideal combination. It’s also full of antioxidants and vitamins that nourish your scalp and boost hair vitality.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup beetroot juice
- ½ cup carrot juice
Steps:
- Mix the two juices thoroughly.
- Apply the liquid directly to your hair.
- Leave it on for 1–2 hours.
- Rinse off with cool or lukewarm water.
Natural vs Artificial Hair Dye: Which Is Better for Your Hair?
Dyeing your hair is a great way to switch up your look, but the choice between natural and artificial hair dyes can affect more than just your appearance. Here’s a breakdown of how they compare and why natural dyes are gaining popularity.
| Comparison: Natural Hair Dye vs Artificial Hair Dye | ||
| Feature | Natural hair dye | Artificial hair dye |
| Ingredients | Made from herbs, plants, and fruits (like beetroot, henna, amla) | Contains synthetic chemicals like ammonia, PPD, parabens |
| Color longevity | Fades faster, requires more frequent use | Lasts longer, more vibrant initially |
| Hair health | Nourishes hair, improves texture | Can cause dryness, damage, or hair breakage |
| Scalp safety | Gentler on sensitive scalps | May cause irritation, allergies |
| Environmental impact | Eco-friendly and biodegradable | Non-biodegradable, chemical waste |
| Application time | Longer process, needs patience | Quicker and more convenient |
| Range of colors | Limited to natural tones | Wide range of shades and finishes |
Why Choose Natural Hair Dyes?
- No harsh chemicals: They’re free from toxic ingredients that damage hair over time.
- Scalp-friendly: Perfect for those with sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
- Multi-benefit: Many natural dyes also nourish the scalp, strengthen strands, and prevent hair fall.
- Sustainable choice: Less impact on the environment, cruelty-free, and biodegradable.
- Long-term hair health: Promotes healthy hair without compromising on shine or volume.
While artificial dyes offer vibrant, long-lasting colors, natural hair dyes win when it comes to safety, sustainability, and overall hair health, making them a smarter choice for conscious beauty lovers.
Conclusion
Beetroot for hair color is a safe, organic, and nourishing alternative to harsh chemical dyes. It adds a vibrant reddish tint while improving scalp health and reducing damage risks. Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, beetroot promotes hair growth, fights dandruff, and enhances shine, making it perfect for those seeking a natural, non-toxic beauty solution. If you’re tired of dull, chemically-treated hair, switch to beetroot hair dye for healthier, shinier, and naturally tinted locks you can feel good about.
FAQs
1. Can beetroot colour hair?
Yes, beetroot can give your hair a temporary reddish or burgundy tint due to its natural pigments.
2. How long does beetroot hair color last?
The color usually lasts for 4–6 washes, depending on your hair type and how often you shampoo.
3. Is beetroot hair dye safe for a sensitive scalp?
Yes, beetroot is gentle and chemical-free, making it suitable for sensitive or allergy-prone scalps.
4. Can beetroot cover grey hair?
It can slightly darken and tone greys, but for full coverage, mix it with natural dyes like henna.
5. How often should I use beetroot on my hair?
You can apply it once a week to maintain the tint and boost hair health.
6. Will beetroot stain my skin or clothes?
Yes, it can stain temporarily. Apply petroleum jelly around your hairline and wear old clothes during application.
7. Can I mix beetroot with other natural ingredients?
Absolutely. it blends well with henna, carrot juice, black tea, or oils for enhanced color and benefits.
8. Do I need to bleach my hair before using beetroot dye?
No, beetroot works best on light or pre-lightened hair but doesn’t require bleaching.
9. Does beetroot hair dye work on dark hair?
On dark hair, it gives a subtle red shine in sunlight rather than a bold color change.
10. How to colour hair with beetroot
To color your hair with beetroot, blend fresh beetroot juice with coconut oil and apply it evenly on clean, dry hair. Leave it on for 1–2 hours, then rinse with cool water.