Buzz
Henna, derived from the crushed leaves and twigs of the henna plant, native to South Asian and North African regions, is renowned for its skin-staining properties. This guide unveils the art of using henna safely on your skin to craft exquisite body art that lasts for 1 to 2 weeks.
Essential Components
- 1/4 cup (20 g) fresh henna leaves or henna powder
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) plus extra lemon juice, freshly squeezed and strained for a smooth texture
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) of oil
Application Steps
Preparation Phase
Determine the area for henna application. With henna being temporary, you have the flexibility to choose various body parts for showcasing your art. Consider factors such as:
- Weather conditions for exposing more skin.
- Upcoming events that may require discretion.
- These considerations help narrow down ideal body locations like hands, arms, and feet.
Select a design. Choosing from endless henna designs can feel daunting yet exciting.
- If you have a visual idea, designing becomes easier; you can also experiment with your creations.
- Explore online for 'henna designs' to find various inspirations.
- Popular options include floral, paisley, or freehand patterns.
Prepare the chosen body area. Dress comfortably to avoid hindrance during application. Secure your hair away from the henna area.
- Cleanse the skin thoroughly with soap and water for a smooth henna application.
Henna Creation Process
Sieve your henna to remove any lumps that may clog the fine tip during application. Alternatively, place a nylon cloth over a plastic container, add henna and some coins on the cloth, then shake to sift the henna through.
Transfer the henna powder into a small bowl. This step applies if you're using henna powder.
Combine 1/4 cup (60 ml) lemon juice or water with the henna powder until it reaches a mashed potato-like consistency.
Thoroughly mix the ingredients.
Cover the henna mixture with plastic wrap.
- Let the henna sit at room temperature for 24 hours to activate the dye.
- During this time, the dye will separate and form a layer above the henna mixture.
Remove the separated dye using a spoon. Gradually add lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) at a time, until the henna reaches a yogurt-like consistency.
Load the henna into a plastic henna cone.
- Twist the cone's top 1 or 2 times and secure it tightly with a rubber band.
- Slide the rubber band downward to create a snug seal between the cone's tip and the rubber band's base, ensuring proper henna dispensing.
Henna Application
Cleanse the skin with soap and water. For oily skin, use rubbing alcohol with a cotton ball.
Position the plastic henna cone's tip on the skin.
- Apply light pressure with your thumb just below the rubber band to dispense the henna through the cone's tip.
- If dispensing is difficult, trim the cone's tip with nail clippers for a larger opening, making small cuts to avoid overdoing it.
- Practice your technique on paper first for smooth lines and intricate designs.
Design your artwork. You can craft your unique design or seek inspiration from books or online templates.
- Hands and feet typically stain darker due to thicker skin.
- Neck and face may not stain as well due to thin, oily skin.
- Delicate henna lines often create a more appealing look.
Let the design dry. The henna should not appear wet or oily, nor should it become too dry and crack.
Apply 1 light spray of spray gel to the finished design. This gel, available in pump spray bottles, is commonly used for hair styling and can be found in health and beauty sections of local drugstores or supermarkets.
Allow the spray gel to air dry. Use a hairdryer to speed up drying if needed.
Apply a second light spray of spray gel over the henna design. After the gel dries, consider wrapping the design with gauze for added protection.
Leave the design wrapped overnight or for a minimum of 12 hours.
Remove the wrap from the design. Apply wax lip balm, coconut oil, or olive oil to the design.
Clean off excess dried henna residue with a mild soap and water solution. Pat the stained design gently with a soft cloth to preserve its longevity.
Also, apply some oil. This helps extend the life of the henna design.
Useful Tips
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Protect yourself when using henna as it can stain skin, clothes, and porous surfaces. Wear gloves and an apron. Use bleach to clean spills on porous surfaces.
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Store henna in a sealed, light-proof container in the freezer.
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Create a solution by mixing water and sugar in a small cup. Use a cotton bud to wipe off henna from your skin.
Cautions
- Avoid henna if you are taking lithium as it can affect lithium absorption in the body.
- Avoid pre-mixed black henna due to potential allergic reactions from chemicals.
- Do not consume henna orally to avoid stomach upset and other health issues.
- Avoid mixing henna paste with mustard oil.
- Test henna on a small area before full application to check for allergic reactions.
- Do not use henna on infants, especially those with G6PD deficiency, as it can cause serious health complications.
