How to Touch Up a Henna Tattoo

Brides have worn henna on the hands and feet for centuries.

Henna is a plant that contains a compound that can safely dye skin, hair, nails, fabric and leather. Henna has been used by many cultures to adorn women and men for holidays and rites of passage. The leaves of the henna plant are made into a paste, which is applied, left to develop for several hours, then removed, leaving reddish-brown color. Traditionally, brides and new mothers were exempted from chores during the celebrations, allowing the henna stains to develop their full color. Being able to touch up your henna tattoos keeps them looking fresh.

Things You'll Need

• Henna paste tube
• Liquid bandage (recommended)

Instructions

1. Apply the henna paste by squeezing it from the tube from the bottom, using the applicator tip to spread the paste where needed. Copy the original design in areas where the design is faded.

2. Wait until the henna paste is dry to the touch. Apply the liquid bandage over the henna paste with the included applicator. Do not disturb the henna paste.

3. Let the paste sit for 2 to 4 hours. Remove the liquid bandage according to the directions on the liquid bandage label. The stain will darken over the next 24 to 48 hours.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have a prepared henna cone, mix henna powder with 1 teaspoon of sugar and stir in lemon juice until it is the consistency of toothpaste. Use a jac bottle (available in art supply stores) to apply the paste just as you would a prepared cone.

• True henna only comes in reddish brown. If you find a product claiming to be "black henna" do not use it. It may contain harmful substances.

References

• The Henna Page: How to Use a Jac Bottle
• Mehndi Skin Art: Henna Body Art FAQ
• The Henna Page: Seal Your Henna with New Skin
• Henna Mehndi: Henna Tattoo FAQs