​Henna is a 100% natural powder made from the lawsonia inermis plant.  The powder is mixed with other natural ingredients and is greenish-brown in color.  Mehndi is the art of applying henna paste to the skin in an ornate fashion.  Its tradition began in early Egypt and many cultures use henna as a decorative means to celebrate holidays and special occasions. 
 
Be wary and avoid black henna as it contains PPD (paraphenylenediamine), a chemical used in hair dyes.  It can be irritating to the skin and some with allergic reactions to this chemical can experience rash, burning, blisters, and even permanent scarring.
 
Your henna tattoo should last approximately 1 to 4 weeks depending on skin type and the amount of care.  The stain will darken in color within 12 to 48 hours.

To Remove Henna Paste:

• Apply a thin layer of olive oil or coconut oil over the paste and rub gently.  (Some paste may flake off, and that is okay!)
• Allow to sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Gently scrape off paste over trash or sink using the back of a butter knife or spatula.
• Once free from paste, wipe the area with a dry paper towel.

 
For a beautiful, long lasting henna stain:

• Avoid soap and water as much as possible the first 12 to 24 hours especially.  (Pool water will fade stain quickly!)
• Keep moisturized and use petroleum jelly periodically throughout the day to seal the area following washing.  (The stain will fade as you wash, and skin exfoliates.)