Henna tattoos, also known as Mehndi, originated from South Asia and the Middle East, and are a form of temporary body art. These designs are created using a paste made from the crushed leaves of the henna plant. When applied to the skin, it leaves a stain ranging from orange to dark brown, depending on how long it’s left on and the individual’s skin type.
Traditionally, henna is only available in its natural color, which creates a brownish-red stain. However, in recent years, “white henna” and “black henna” have gained popularity. White henna isn’t made from the henna plant but from body paint or body adhesive, and does not stain the skin but sits on top of it. Black henna often contains PPD, a chemical that can cause allergic reactions, and isn’t recommended.
Best part of the body for Henna tattoo
The best body parts for henna tattoos are the hands and feet. These areas of the body contain less natural oils, allowing the henna stain to be absorbed more efficiently and last longer. The intricate designs often seen in henna look particularly beautiful tracing the lines of the hands or feet.
Why people choose Henna tattoo
Choosing a henna tattoo can be an excellent option for many reasons. Firstly, it’s temporary. This makes it a great choice for those who like to change their body art regularly or who want to try out a design before getting a permanent tattoo. Henna tattoos are also painless, as the paste is applied to the skin’s surface, not injected. Lastly, henna tattoos offer a way to engage with and celebrate cultural traditions, especially during festivals, weddings, or other special occasions. For many people, applying henna is not only a beauty treatment but also a means of self-expression and a celebration of their cultural heritage.
How to take of Henna tattoo
Taking care of a henna tattoo is important to ensure a rich stain and longevity. Here are steps to help you take care of your henna tattoo:
Let it Dry: After applying henna paste, you need to let it dry naturally. Avoid touching anything or moving the area too much to prevent smudging. This usually takes about 1-2 hours.
Keep it On: Leave the henna paste on your skin for as long as possible, ideally 6-12 hours. The longer the paste stays on the skin, the darker the stain will be.
Don’t Wash Off: When you’re ready to remove the paste, scrape it off gently. Don’t wash it off with water right away as it can prevent the dye from fully penetrating the skin.
Avoid Water: After removing the henna paste, try to keep the area dry and avoid washing it for the first day. Water can interrupt the oxidation process of the henna, leading to a lighter stain.
Apply Oil: Applying a thin layer of natural oil (like olive or coconut oil) can protect the henna tattoo when you do need to get it wet.
Avoid Exfoliation: Avoid exfoliating or rubbing the area harshly, as the henna tattoo stains the top layers of skin and will fade faster with exfoliation.
Remember, the henna tattoo will start off orange and darken over the next few days to a deep reddish-brown. It will then gradually fade over 1-3 weeks depending on the care and your skin’s exfoliation rate. Always use natural henna and avoid ‘black henna’ or ‘colored henna’ which can contain harmful chemicals.
Henna tattoo designs
How to remove a henna tattoo
Henna tattoos are designed to be semi-permanent and will naturally fade over one to three weeks as the skin exfoliates. However, if you need to remove a henna tattoo more quickly, here are a few methods you can try:
Exfoliation: Gentle exfoliation can help speed up the natural fading process. Use a loofah or an exfoliating scrub and warm water to gently scrub the area. Be careful not to scrub too hard and irritate the skin.
Baking Soda and Lemon Juice: Mix equal parts baking soda and lemon juice into a paste. Apply this to the henna tattoo and let it sit for about ten minutes before rinsing off. These ingredients can be drying, so be sure to moisturize after.
Saltwater Soak: Soaking the tattooed area in a mixture of warm water and sea salt can help fade the tattoo. Do this for about 20 minutes a day.
Oil Treatment: Apply an oil (like olive oil or coconut oil) to the tattoo and rub it in, letting it sit for a few minutes. Then, gently exfoliate the area. The oil can help to loosen the layers of skin stained with henna.
Remember, the results will vary depending on how dark the henna is and how deeply it has penetrated the skin. These methods may not completely remove the henna but will help it fade faster. Never use chemicals or bleach to remove henna as it can harm your skin. If irritation occurs with any of these methods, stop use immediately.
Source: Scopenew.com – Guide