If you’ve dyed your hair, you already know the struggle—color fades, shine disappears, and your strands may start to feel dry or dull over time. But what if there were a simple, affordable way to restore vibrancy using something from your spice cabinet? That’s where cloves come in. Long known for their warming scent and antioxidant content, cloves are now gaining attention as a natural beauty ingredient that may help revive shiny dyed hair—without harsh chemicals.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a gentle clove-based hair rinse recipe, explain how it may benefit color-treated hair, and offer expert-backed tips for getting the most out of this traditional beauty secret.
Why Cloves for Hair?
Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) are aromatic flower buds commonly used in cooking and herbal remedies. But when steeped into a tea or rinse, they can also become a nourishing treatment for your scalp and hair, particularly helpful for dyed or chemically processed strands.
Cloves are rich in:
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Antioxidants that help protect hair from environmental damage
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Eugenol, a natural compound with antimicrobial and scalp-soothing properties
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Tannins that may smooth the hair shaft, adding shine
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Natural pigments that may enhance the tone of darker hair colors
While cloves won’t permanently dye your hair or replace professional color, many users find that they enhance the richness and shine of dyed hair, especially when used consistently as part of a natural hair care routine.
Benefits of Using a Clove Hair Rinse
When used as a rinse 1–2 times a week, a clove infusion may offer the following supportive benefits:
1. Boosts Shine
Cloves contain tannins and natural oils that may help flatten and smooth the outer layer of hair (the cuticle), which reflects more light. This can make dyed hair look glossier, even after several washes.
2. May Support Color Retention
While cloves won’t replace hair dye, they may help deepen darker shades (like brunette or auburn) and maintain a warmer undertone. The rinse won’t lighten hair but may enhance richness.
3. Soothes the Scalp
The eugenol in cloves has been studied for its antimicrobial and calming effects. According to WebMD, eugenol may help reduce irritation on the scalp, especially if your scalp feels dry or tight from coloring treatments.
4. May Reduce Dullness
Hair dye and styling tools can strip the hair of natural oils. A clove rinse may offer a mild conditioning effect, which helps prevent dryness and dullness, especially in colder weather.
How to Make a Clove Hair Rinse for Dyed Hair
This recipe is easy to prepare and uses ingredients you may already have in your pantry. It’s best suited for people with darker hair shades (brown, black, dark red). If you have very light or platinum hair, test carefully on a small strand first, as the natural pigment in cloves may deepen the tone.
Clove Hair Rinse Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons whole cloves
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2 cups of water
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(Optional) 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (for extra shine and pH balance)
Instructions:
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Add the cloves and water to a small pot.
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Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
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Let the mixture cool completely.
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Strain out the cloves using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
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(Optional) Stir in apple cider vinegar after straining.
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Pour the mixture into a clean bottle or jar.
How to Use:
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Shampoo your hair as usual and rinse thoroughly.
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Pour the clove rinse slowly over your scalp and hair.
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Massage gently into your scalp and comb through the ends.
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Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
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Rinse out with cool water (or leave it in, depending on your preference).
Use this rinse once or twice a week for best results. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips to Maximize the Shine and Color Benefits
To get the most out of your clove hair rinse, pair it with other hair-friendly habits:
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Avoid daily heat styling to prevent further drying.
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Use a sulfate-free shampoo, which is gentler on color-treated hair.
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Deep condition weekly to restore moisture balance.
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Protect hair from UV exposure, which can fade color over time.
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Trim split ends regularly to keep strands looking healthy and neat.
Who Should Use Clove Rinses?
This rinse is best for:
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People with dyed dark hair (brown, black, or red tones)
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Individuals experiencing dullness or dryness after coloring
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Those looking for a natural alternative to shine sprays or chemical glosses
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Anyone with mild scalp irritation from dye or weather changes
Avoid using clove rinses if:
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You are allergic to cloves or have sensitive skin
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You have very light, platinum, or bleached hair without doing a strand test
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You have an open wound or cut on your scalp
As with all natural remedies, results vary based on your hair type and consistency of use.
What to Expect After 1–2 Weeks
When used regularly, many people report the following changes:
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Hair feels softer and smoother
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Natural shine is more noticeable, especially in daylight
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Slight enhancement of dark tones
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Less scalp dryness or flaking
Clove rinse won’t reverse damage or dramatically change hair color, but it’s a safe, easy, and enjoyable way to enhance dyed hair naturally—without spending money on extra salon visits.
Pro Tip: Add a drop of lavender or rosemary essential oil to the final rinse for a pleasant scent and added scalp support.
Final Thoughts: A Timeless Trick for Modern Hair Care
Sometimes the best beauty solutions come from the simplest ingredients. Cloves have been used in natural remedies for centuries, and now they’re finding a new purpose in modern hair care. If you’re looking to boost the shine and richness of your dyed hair with something gentle and natural, this clove hair rinse may be a great place to start.
No miracle claims—just a warm, aromatic rinse that supports your hair with plant-based care.
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Explore more simple hair and skin recipes on our site for inspiration.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Consult your doctor or dermatologist before trying new skin or hair treatments, especially if you have allergies or scalp conditions.