How does henna work?
Designs can take a couple of minutes for a simple motif to many hours for intricate bridal Mehndi. After the paste dries, we typically will either let the henna dry on it's own (there are times when a lemon juice/sugar mixture is applied, however Florida is very humid and most times is not needed) or we will apply an adhesive bandage called Hypafix to secure the design.
The paste is left on for 4 to 8 hours for best results. It is then scraped (not washed) off using a credit card and some oil if is does not want to come off on it's own. Avoid exposure to water for 12 hours after removing the paste for best results. At first you will have an orange stain that will darken over the next 24-48 hours. (see below)
The paste is left on for 4 to 8 hours for best results. It is then scraped (not washed) off using a credit card and some oil if is does not want to come off on it's own. Avoid exposure to water for 12 hours after removing the paste for best results. At first you will have an orange stain that will darken over the next 24-48 hours. (see below)
Paste on
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Paste taken off after 6-8 hours
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Stain after 2 days
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Please know that if your skin is a shade of brown naturally, henna will appear a darker shade of your own skin color. We at Henna Junkie think this is a beautiful look. If you have very dark skin and you want the henna strikingly visible then the palms are your best bet. Please keep in mind whatever your skin tone, henna is always darkest on the palms and soles of the feet.