mehndi

Mehndi, or henna, is a form of temporary body art created by applying a paste made from the dried leaves of the henna plant, Lawsonia inermis. When applied to the skin, the paste stains the outer layers in shades that range from orange to deep reddish brown as it dries and flakes off. Natural mehndi typically includes only henna with water and sometimes additives such as lemon juice, sugar, or essential oils to improve consistency and stain depth.

Patterns are usually drawn on the hands and feet, but designs may appear elsewhere. Indian styles favor dense floral motifs and paisleys, Arabic mehndi emphasizes large, flowing motifs with open spaces, and African variants often use geometric patterns. Mehndi is closely linked to cultural and religious celebrations, particularly weddings, Eid, Diwali, and other festivals, where it is seen as a sign of joy, beauty, and good fortune.

Application involves preparing clean skin, piping the paste into fine lines with a cone or brush, and allowing it to dry for several hours. The stain develops and usually darkens after the paste is removed, often taking one to two days to reach its deepest color. To help set the stain, some people apply a sugar-lemon solution and keep the paste warm with heat or cling film, and they avoid washing the area for as long as possible.

Safety considerations include the general safety of natural henna for most people, though allergies can occur. Black henna products containing PPD can cause severe reactions and should be avoided; a patch test is advised for new users. Henna should not be applied to broken skin or near the eyes.

Typical mehndi designs fade gradually over one to three weeks, depending on skin type, location, and aftercare.