Coffee and cornstarch: the natural trick to hide grey hair

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Brew the Coffee: Start by brewing a small amount of strong coffee. The stronger the coffee, the more pigment it will have, so aim for about 2 tablespoons of coffee grounds to 1/2 cup of water. You want it to be quite concentrated. Brew the coffee as usual, then allow it to cool to room temperature.
2. Mix the Cornstarch: In a small bowl or container, combine the cornstarch with a little bit of water. You only need a few teaspoons to start, mixing until you have a thick, smooth paste. This will give the mixture its desired texture and help it adhere to your hair.
3. Combine the Coffee and Cornstarch: Once the coffee has cooled, add it to the cornstarch paste and mix well. You should aim for a consistency similar to a thick hair mask. The coffee will provide the color, while the cornstarch helps with application and texture.
4. Apply the Mixture: Using a brush, makeup sponge, or your hands, apply the coffee-cornstarch mixture directly to the areas where you have grey or silver hair. Make sure to apply it evenly, focusing on the roots or areas with the most noticeable greys.

   If you’re just covering small patches of grey, you can use a cotton ball or q-tip for a more precise application. If you want to cover a larger area, you might want to use a wider brush or your hands. Be sure to wear gloves if you’re concerned about staining your skin.

5. Let It Sit: Allow the mixture to sit on your hair for about 10-15 minutes. This gives the coffee time to darken your hair and absorb into the strands, while the cornstarch helps it stick and stay in place.
6. Rinse and Dry: After letting the mixture sit, rinse your hair with lukewarm water. You don’t need to shampoo—just gently rinse out the coffee-cornstarch mixture. Pat your hair dry with a towel and style as usual.

How Long Does It Last?

One of the main benefits of this method is that it’s temporary. The coffee will wash out over time, and you can easily reapply the treatment as needed. Typically, you can expect the color to last for 2-3 washes, depending on how often you wash your hair and how dark your natural hair color is. If you have darker hair to begin with, the coffee may last a bit longer.

Because this is a temporary solution, it’s perfect for a quick fix in between salon visits or for special occasions. Just keep in mind that it will need to be reapplied every few days or whenever you notice the color fading.

Tips for Best Results:

1. Stronger Coffee: For a deeper and more intense color, make the coffee stronger by using more coffee grounds or letting it brew for a longer period. This will give you a darker shade and help cover more stubborn grey hairs.
2. Avoid Overuse: While this natural method is safe and non-toxic, it’s a good idea to give your hair a break between applications. Too much coffee can dry out your hair, so try not to apply it too frequently.
3. Adjust for Your Hair Type: If you have very light or very dark hair, you might need to adjust the amount of coffee or cornstarch. Lighter hair may require more coffee for noticeable results, while dark hair may need a thicker paste to get full coverage.
4. Test It First: As with any hair treatment, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test first. Apply a small amount of the coffee-cornstarch mixture to a small section of your hair to ensure there are no allergic reactions and to see how it affects your natural color.

Conclusion

Coffee and cornstarch offer a simple, natural, and environmentally friendly way to temporarily cover grey hair. This method is not only affordable and easy to make, but it also avoids the harsh chemicals found in traditional hair dyes. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix to cover grey roots or a more natural option for the occasional touch-up, this DIY solution provides a gentle, effective way to darken your hair without compromising on quality or safety.

So, the next time those grey hairs start to show, consider reaching for a cup of coffee and some cornstarch—your hair will thank you!