All About Henna

We’re asked all the time at Spa Theory – what is henna, and is it right for me? The simple answer is that it’s a stunningly designed, bespoke temporary tattoo and yes – it’s right for you! It’s a fun activity at a spa day or something unique to have for a special night out. Here are all the basics:

What is Henna?

Henna is a plant found and grown in South Asia and North African countries that’s crushed and made into a paste with hot water, lemon juice, and essential oils. It’s been used for thousands of years to naturally color the skin, hair, and fingernails. When applied to the skin, and left on to dry for a few hours, it leaves a dark red-tinted stain that fades away in a week or two. Most commonly used in Indian weddings to mark a brides’ passage into womanhood, henna started going mainstream in the 1990s when a number of celebrities began sporting henna designs.

Where is it used?

Henna can be applied anywhere on the body, but is most common is on the hands, palms, arms, and back and the designs can be incredibly intricate.

How long does Henna take?

A simple design can take about 10 minutes, but some designs can take multiple hours to complete. It all depends on the size of the body part where the design is being applied and the intracity of the design.

How long does Henna stay on?

If maintained well, henna can last a couple weeks.

Interesting to Note…

Henna is known to give a cooling sensation to the body and is best during the summer time. Henna’s natural medicinal herbal remedies is a big reason why it’s used at many Indian weddings. Henna cools the body and relieves the bride of any stress before her big day. Henna is applied to both the hands and the feet as a means of cooling the nerve-endings of the body, preventing the nerves from tensing up.

Spa Theory henna artists have years of experience creating unique designs for bridal parties as well as anyone looking to incorporate henna into their look.