Henna Aftercare: How to Get a Deep, Lasting Stain

While the paste is on

Fresh henna paste needs time to release its dye into your skin. The longer it stays on, the deeper and longer-lasting your stain will be.

1. Let it dry. Give the paste 20 to 30 minutes to dry, and try not to touch it.
2. Seal it, if you like. Once it’s dry, gently dab on a little lemon juice mixed with sugar. It helps the paste stay moist and stuck to your skin.
3. Keep it warm. Warmth helps the dye release, so stay cosy and keep cold air off your hands.
4. Keep it on. Aim for at least four to six hours. For the best stain, leave it on overnight, loosely wrapped in tissue and medical tape to protect your sheets.

Taking the paste off

When it’s time, remove the dried paste by gently scraping or rubbing it away with your fingers or the back of a butter knife. Don’t wash it off with water.

Good to knowYour stain will look bright orange when the paste first comes off. That’s normal: the colour needs time to develop.

The first 24 to 48 hours

Natural henna darkens as it oxidises after the paste comes off, deepening from orange to a rich red-brown over the next day or two.

• Keep water off the design for the first 12 to 24 hours. If you must wash, keep it quick.
• Before showering, rub a little natural balm or oil, such as coconut or olive oil, over the design.
• Stay warm. Heat helps the colour deepen.
• Skip the gym, sauna and swimming pool for the first day.

Making it last

A henna stain usually lasts one to three weeks. It fades as your skin naturally renews, so stains on the palms and fingertips, where the skin is thicker, tend to be darker and last longer than those on the back of the hand or arms.

• Moisturise with a natural oil or balm a few times a day.
• Wear gloves for washing up and cleaning.
• Where you can, keep harsh soaps, scrubs, chlorine and hand sanitiser off the design.
• Pat your hands dry rather than rubbing them.

When to get in touch

If the area becomes itchy, swollen or blistered, remove any paste, stop using products on it and seek medical advice. Natural henna rarely causes reactions, but it’s always best to be careful. Please let us know too.