11 Traditional Beauty Rituals Gen Z Is Bringing Back

6. Henna scalp and hair treatments

Henna has been used for centuries as both a dye and a conditioning treatment. Pure henna (Lawsonia inermis) provides reddish tones and can add gloss and a perceived strengthening effect. Gen Z often uses henna as a natural color option and as a scalp treatment mixed with yogurt or tea to support scalp health. Important safety note: avoid black-market “black henna” and any henna mixed with metallic salts or PPD, which can cause severe allergic reactions. Always do a strand and skin patch test at least 48 hours before a full application. A conditioning henna mask can be left on for 1–3 hours, then rinsed; color intensity increases with time and repeated applications. If you use chemical dyes, be cautious combining them with henna — color results can be unpredictable. For many users, henna is a low-chemical way to refresh hair while honoring a centuries-old practice.