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Q: What is henna?

A: Henna painting is an ancient art form where the leaves of the plant Lawsonia inermis are crushed and combined with natural oils and liquids to form a paste which is then applied directly to the skin. The word henna is native to Persia but has become common among many languages. Other frequently used names you might hear are Mehndi (India) and Mendika (Sanskrit), among many others. 

Q: How does the henna paste stain the skin?

A: Molecules within the dye bind to the proteins in the top layer of skin. This layer of skin then exfoliates over time. Most people don't realize that henna dye is actually a permanent stain. Your design will fade when you naturally shed off the top layer of skin. Everyone exfoliates completely every 30 days or so, meaning your henna will always be temporary.

Q: How long will my design last?

A: Because of all of the variables involved, no one henna design is the same as the next in every possible way. It really depends on your own body chemistry, how long you leave the paste on your skin, and how closely you follow your aftercare instructions from your artist. A typical henna design will reach peak stain within 48 hours and then will slowly start to fade after that point. Most designs will last about a week to 10 days.

Q: Is it safe?

A: All natural henna is safe to use. That being said, there are some things you need to know to stay informed: 

 

First of all, NO REPUTABLE henna artist will advertise "black henna". The henna paste being used will vary in color and can appear black as it dries. Black henna refers to the intensity of the stain left behind after the paste is removed. Henna stain that is black in color has been mixed with unsafe chemicals that can burn and disfigure the skin.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your henna artist should be able to tell you exactly what is in the henna they are using. Allergies are rare but do happen, so be sure to check with your artist in order to determine if there is any potential for allergic reaction.

 

Who Should NOT receive a henna tattoo?

  • Individuals with the genetic disorders Hyperbilirubinemia and G6PD

  • Children under the age of 6

  • Anyone who is severely anemic

 

Pregnancy and Henna

 

While it is quite common for pregnant women to receive henna, it is recommended that women who are pregnant use henna paste that has been mixed with a milder oil, such as lavender. Please check with your artist if you are or think you might be pregnant. 

Belly blessings, as shown in the image on the right, are a common practice when the mother is nearing her delivery date as a way for the mother and child to connect further. It's also makes a great centerpiece at a baby shower.

~ Image courtesy of SaraHenna.

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