Organic Henna vs Jagua: Which Is Right for You?

What is henna?

Henna comes from the dried, powdered leaves of the henna plant, Lawsonia inermis. Blended into a smooth paste, it stains the skin a warm orange that deepens to a rich red-brown. It’s the stain behind centuries of bridal and festive tradition across India, the Middle East and North Africa.

At Hennaaz, every cone is filled by hand with fresh, organic henna made in small batches.

What is jagua?

Jagua comes from the fruit of the Genipa americana tree, native to Central and South America, where it has long been used for body art. The juice of the unripe fruit is made into a gel that stains the skin blue-black, so the result looks more like a temporary tattoo than traditional henna.

Side by side

Which should you choose?

Choose henna if you love a traditional look, you’re celebrating a wedding, Eid, Diwali or another festival, or you want a warm stain that sits beautifully with gold jewellery.

Choose jagua if you’d like a darker, high-contrast, tattoo-like look, or a minimal or modern design.

A word on “black henna”

“Black henna” sold at markets and holiday resorts often contains PPD (para-phenylenediamine), a hair-dye chemical that can cause serious skin reactions and lasting scarring. It is not the same as jagua. Natural henna never stains black straight away, and Hennaaz never uses PPD.

Good to knowJagua is plant-based, but like any natural product it can cause a reaction in some people. If you have sensitive skin, ask about a patch test first.

Still not sure?

Tell us about your occasion and the look you’re after when you enquire, and we’ll help you choose. You can also browse both styles in our gallery.