Medical Issues & Allergies

Human skin is made up of three layers: the hyperdermis (fatty tissue), the dermis and the epidermis (first layer). Unlike tattooing, which breaks through the top two layers of skin and stains the third, henna stains the epidermis only. The cells of the epidermis are constantly being renewed -- slewing off and being replaced with new cells -- making henna decoration temporary (between one and four weeks).

Newly applied henna will appear orange but it gradually darkens over the first forty-eight hours. How dark it will become depends on the thickness of the epidermis, skin type and how fresh the henna powder was when used. Usually, the brighter the orange of the newly applied henna, the darker the subsequent shade will be.

Henna is a natural product that has been used for centuries and allergic reactions are rare. Even so, it is best to apply a test patch to your skin before you try a larger design. If you have any reaction at or around the test area, don't use henna. Though often used on children in Eastern cultures, it's best to avoid use on younger kids.

Black henna, however, is henna mixed with additional chemical compounds and this can cause skin damage. In fact, black henna is banned in some countries (including the UK).

It is important that you avoid contact with the eyes. Henna is for external use only.