The duration of the stain and the depth of color depend on the area of body
chosen and length of time the paste remains on your skin. Henna will produce
the best stains on hands and feet, wrists and ankles, while designs on upper
arms, chest and back will last the shortest amount of time. Mehndi generally
lasts 7 to 10 days.
Scrub skin with soap and warm water to exfoliate then rub area with alcohol
to remove any lotion and the body' natural oils.
You may want to practice drawing some simple shapes and patterns on a paper
towel before you move to the skin.
The henna begins to stain immediately so if you make a mistake wipe it off
right away. If you are uncomfortable applying henna freehand, draw a design
on your skin using a waterbased marker or pen then trace over it with henna.
This will help you to apply the henna more quickly and with fewer mistakes.
Slowly apply even lines of paste by gently squeezing the applicator bottle
or mylar cone. Rest the weight of your hand on your little finger to help
maintain a steady line. Your line of henna should be smooth and have a consistent
width for the most attractive results. The applicator tip should not touch
the skin but should be held just above the skin so the line of paste lays
down in a nice round line like a rope.
Fresh henna paste is only good for a few days once mixed, however, if you
freeze the paste it can last for several months. Wrap the left over henna
paste tightly and keep in the freezer until you are ready to use it on another
day. Just pull it out of the freezer and let it defrost for an hour at room
temperature, you are now ready for another application.
Please remember that only natural red-brown henna is safe for your skin. Black
henna may have chemicals added that can blister and scar the skin as well
as cause long term damage to your body.
