Henna designs are ancient art forms that use natural dye to create temporary tattoos on the skin. This art technique involves drawing designs on the skin using a henna.
Henna is also known as mehndi and has religious and cultural significance in Africa and other regions.
Designs vary from simple to complicated and can depict flowers, vines, or even famous monuments.
Henna designs are popular for weddings, fashion, fun and everyday wear.
Henna designs can be customized and adapted to suit different styles and preferences or inspired by contemporary trends.
Here is how to make the henna ink
First, the henna leaves are crushed and dried into a powder
It is then mixed with a liquid such as water, tea, or lemon juice.
Honey or sugar can also be added to the mixture.
The artist then pipes or brushes the henna ink onto the skin with a toothpick or stick and leaves it to dry.
The drying process gives the henna time to stain the skin.
How to choose a henna design or a pattern
Henna designs and patterns vary widely depending on the culture, region, and occasion. Here are some of the most popular henna designs and patterns.
According to Glamour Magazine, UK, flowers, this a very common and very known henna design. Flowers drawn are used to represent beauty and joy.
Another design to draw is the Vines and leaves. Vines and leaves are drawn systematically following a pattern. They are mostly used to signify devotion and strength.
Names and initials is a design with some brides to add the names of their spouses to find on the wedding night as a little game. For weddings, it is custom to have the groom's initials put in or even draw figures in the designs according to some cultures.
Mostly known is the African henna designs often feature bold, graphic shapes and patterns, including dots, lines, and triangles.
They may be used to create a repeating pattern or may be applied to specific areas of the hand or body.
Lastly are the modern henna designs. The modern design often incorporates a mix of traditional and contemporary elements, including graphic shapes and text. They may also be used to create customized designs based on preferences and interests.
The key is to choose a design and pattern that reflects your style and preferences and to work with a skilled henna artist who can bring your vision to life.
Most people are familiar with Indian henna tattoos, but henna is also traditional in places like Egypt, Somalia and Morocco.
How long does the henna ink last
Henna tattoos are temporary and usually last two to three weeks before fading.
However, the time it takes for the tattoo to disappear depends on where it's located on the body. Areas that are frequently exposed to soap, water, and sunlight like the hands will fade more quickly.
One can also make the henna tattoo last longer by ensuring your skin is thoroughly exfoliated and shaved before applying it. That means you won't be applying the henna ink to dead skin.