Henna Body Art

Welcome to the Henna Body Art web site!

Mehndi is the art of decorating the skin using henna. Henna body art involves painting the design directly on to the skin using henna paste that, when brushed off, leaves a brown line which will be visible for one to four weeks.

Henna developed 5000 years ago in Eygpt and travelled across the Middle East, Indian and beyond. In these countries, it became associated with ceremonies and celebrations and was a female artform. Now, henna body art is increasing in popularity across the Western world as a safe, natural form of temporary tattoo.

This site includes a brief history of mehndi and discussion of henna body art today; an overview of traditional designs; the method and techniques of applying henna, including using transfers or free hand application; how to mix henna paste and make your own cones; and pages about the medical issues of using henna and the dangers of black henna.

I've also included a list of recommended books for further information, designs and henna kits.