New Year Hair Simmering Color is a warm, aromatic hair rinse that uses simmered herbs, spices, and botanicals to add a subtle tint and glossy shine to your hair. It’s a gentle, chemical-free way to refresh your color or enhance your natural tones, and it doubles as a relaxing at-home spa treatment. The simmering process releases the pigments and nutrients from the ingredients, creating a fragrant, color-boosting tea that you pour over your hair after shampooing.
Ingredients
- 4 cups (950 ml) filtered water
- 2 tablespoons (12 g) dried hibiscus flowers (for red tones) OR 2 tablespoons (12 g) dried chamomile flowers (for golden tones)
- 1 tablespoon (6 g) dried rosemary (for dark hair)
- 1 tablespoon (6 g) dried sage (for dark hair) OR 1 tablespoon (6 g) dried calendula petals (for light hair)
- 1 cinnamon stick (about 3 inches / 7.5 cm)
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) apple cider vinegar (optional, for shine)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, hibiscus or chamomile, rosemary, sage or calendula, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and simmer gently for 20 minutes. The liquid will darken and become fragrant.
- Remove from heat and let steep for 5 minutes. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or pitcher; discard the solids.
- Stir in the apple cider vinegar, if using. Allow the mixture to cool to a comfortable warm temperature (not hot) before applying.
- After shampooing and conditioning as usual, pour the simmering color over your hair in the shower or over a sink, making sure to saturate all strands. Massage it into your scalp for a minute.
- Leave on for 5–10 minutes, then rinse with cool water. Style as desired. For a deeper tint, repeat the treatment 2–3 times over a week.
Tips
- Choose your botanicals wisely: Hibiscus gives a reddish tint, chamomile adds golden highlights, and rosemary/sage deepen dark hair. Mixing them can create a custom shade, but start with small amounts to test.
- Patch test first: Apply a small amount of the cooled liquid to your inner elbow and wait 24 hours to check for any allergic reaction, especially if you have sensitive skin.
- Don’t use on freshly colored hair: This rinse can slightly alter chemical dyes, so wait at least two weeks after coloring before using.
- Use a dark towel: The liquid may stain light fabrics, so wear an old shirt and use a dark towel when applying.
Serving Suggestions
Use this simmering color as a weekly rinse in place of your regular conditioner for a gradual color boost. It also works beautifully as a pre-shampoo scalp treatment: warm it slightly, massage into the scalp, and leave for 15 minutes before washing. Pair it with a deep conditioning mask for extra softness.
Variations
- For red hair: Add 1 tablespoon (6 g) of dried rose petals and 1 teaspoon of beetroot powder to the simmer.
- For blonde hair: Use 3 tablespoons (18 g) of chamomile and add the juice of half a lemon (about 1 tablespoon / 15 ml) to brighten.
- For brunette hair: Add 1 tablespoon (6 g) of black tea leaves and 1 tablespoon (6 g) of coffee grounds to deepen the tone.
- Herbal boost: Add a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of ginger for extra scalp stimulation and fragrance.
Storage and Reheating
Store any unused simmering color in a sealed glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan or microwave until just warm, not boiling. Discard any leftover after 5 days. Do not freeze, as the herbal infusion loses its potency.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the color last?
The tint is temporary and typically fades after 1–2 weeks, depending on your hair porosity and how often you wash. Regular use (once a week) can maintain and deepen the shade.
Will it cover gray hair?
No, this rinse cannot cover gray hair. It adds a subtle tint to existing color but will not dramatically change gray strands. It may slightly warm gray tones, but not fully color them.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, but you’ll need to triple the amount (e.g., 6 tablespoons fresh) and simmer for an extra 5 minutes to extract the pigments.
Is it safe for chemically treated hair?
Generally yes, as it is gentle and natural. However, it can interact with some dyes, so wait at least two weeks after coloring or perming. Do a strand test if unsure.
Does the apple cider vinegar help?
It adds shine and helps close the hair cuticle, but it also has a strong smell that fades as hair dries. If you dislike the scent, you can omit it.
Can I use this on my scalp if I have dandruff?
Yes, the herbs and spices have soothing properties, but if you have any open sores or severe irritation, skip the treatment and consult a dermatologist.
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