Aftercare guide
The secret to a dark stain
Natural henna starts orange and deepens to a rich maroon over 24 to 48 hours. How you care for it makes all the difference.
01 Before your appointment
- Have any waxing, threading, scrubs or manicures done before your henna.
- Wash and dry your hands and feet. Skip lotion, oil and sunscreen on the day.
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing with sleeves that roll up easily.
- Eat, use the bathroom and charge your phone first. Bridal mehndi can take several hours!
02 While the paste dries
- Keep the paste on for at least 6 to 8 hours, ideally overnight.
- Stay warm. Warmth helps the dye release and darken.
- Dab on a little lemon and sugar sealant if advised, to help the paste stay put.
- Avoid touching or smudging the design while it is wet.
03 Removing the paste
- Scrape the dried paste off gently with a blunt knife or your fingers.
- Do not wash with water. Avoid it for the first 12 to 24 hours.
- Rub on a little natural oil (mustard, coconut or olive) or a balm.
- Warm your hands over a gentle heat source (e.g. cloves on a tawa) if you like.
04 After 24 hours
- Moisturise often. Hydrated skin holds the stain longer.
- Avoid chlorine, swimming, hot tubs, saunas and harsh soaps.
- Wear gloves for washing up and cleaning.
- Your stain will peak at 48 hours and fade gradually over 1 to 3 weeks.
Why does my henna look orange? That is completely normal! Natural henna always starts bright orange when the paste comes off, then oxidises to a deep reddish-brown over the next 48 hours. Palms and fingertips stain darkest; arms stain a little lighter.
A word on “black henna”: we never use black henna or any product containing PPD, a chemical dye that can cause serious skin reactions. Our cones are freshly made from natural henna powder, sugar and essential oils. If you have allergies or sensitive skin, please tell us when you book so we can do a patch test.
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