How does Henna stain

Henna contains an orange-red dye molecule called lawsone. In order for henna to stain the skin, the lawsone molecule has to be released; hence the finely powdered henna is mixed with an acidic medium like lemon juice or tea. Sometimes “terps”, monoterpene alcohols like lavender oil, cajeput oil, tea-tree oil or combination of these oils are added to enhance the staining properties of the henna. 

Henna paste is applied on your skin and over several hours the natural pigments are absorbed into the upper layers of your epidermis.  it doesn't spread out,  it goes straight down into the skin. That is why the pattern stays clear and in place till the last day of exfoliation. henna application is pain free. Henna can last up to a fortnight on thicker skin like hand & feet, and tends to fade more quickly in arms, chest and thinner skin areas. 

Catherine Jones

References:

1. Cartwright-Jones, C. (2003). henna encyclopedia. Retrieved April 2011, from henna page: http://www.hennapage.com/henna/encyclopedia/skin/stratum/sc2.html
2. Parthasarathy, R. (2007). Henna for you. Retrieved April 2011, from http://www.hennaforyou.com.au/hfyartofhenna.htm#hennastain

Pregnant Belly Henna

Photographed by  Darcy Vasudev

Henna during pregnancy is an ancient practice and is soothing as well as calming. It is believed to help bring about an easy birth and healthy child.it is believed that during the 8th month of pregnancy, when a women henna's her belly, it brings good luck.  

The red coloring of the dye and protective images used in the patterns guard against the evil eye and are thought to protect the pair during the child's difficult passage into this world. 

Photograhed by Darcy Vasudev

NEVER EVER use henna that has been mixed with other chemicals. use only natural henna, lemon juice, sugar and lavender oil in our mixes for pregnant women. It is important to keep the ingredients simple during pregnancy so you don’t stress the body, baby, or cause an allergic reaction. Henna should be avoided or used sparingly if you are extremely anemic or the baby has G6PD deficiency. 

Photographed by Darcy Vasudev

Photographed by Darcy Vasudev

Photographed by Sarah Kate

Henna a pregnant belly

References: 

1. (n.d.). Retrieved April 2011, from caravan henna: www.hennacaravan.com/pregnancy.html

2. Vasudev, D. (2005). Retrieved April 2011, from Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/hennalounge/1287522705/in/photostream/