Henna Tattoo Instructions

Henna tattoos are natural, temporary and can go anywhere on your body.

Derived from the henna plant, henna is a natural ink used as a hair dye, fabric dye, craft ink and body ink. The natural color of henna varies from bright reddish brown to black. A popular and temporary alternative to the permanent tattoo, henna tattoos serve as intricately decorated body designs. Also called mehndi, the form of temporary henna art is easy to apply with a little patience and some practice.

Things You'll Need

• Henna powder (2 oz)
• Water (1 oz)
• Glass bowl
• Whisk
• Paintbrush (fine-tipped)
• Stencil

Instructions

1. Mix the henna powder and water in a glass bowl. Mix it thoroughly with a whisk to disperse the powder into the water.

2. Place a stencil of choice somewhere on your skin. Traditionally, henna tattoos are applied to the hand and tops of your feet, but you can place the stencil anywhere you wish. Choose an intricate traditional henna stencil or something floral or tribal. It's up to you.

3. Dip the tip of the paintbrush into the mixed henna ink.

4. Apply the tip of the brush to your skin through the stencil, gently. Apply a thin layer of the ink over every opened part of the stencil to your skin.

5. Remove the stencil, being extra careful not to smear it against your skin. Let the henna tattoo dry for about 15 minutes before touching your skin to anything. The henna ink lasts for up to three washes or can be scrubbed with rubbing alcohol and then warm sudsy water to be removed.

References

• Puja: Abut Mehndi