Henna Aftercare
Hey Beauty!
Let's talk about how to care for your henna! The first step to caring for your henna, is making sure you are using high quality, fresh, natural paste, and I've got you covered there! Then there are a number of things that can impact the quality of your henna stain, but the development process is pretty standard.
Henna paste should be left on for 4-6 hours but can be left on for up to 12 hours. Longer than 12 hours won’t hurt you, but oxidization is part of the process, so your stain does need to breathe. After the paste is removed your stain will deepen in color for the next 24-48 hours.
Freshly removed paste generally reveals a pumpkin-colored stain that will deepen to a rich, red-brown. Appropriate aftercare is the best way to ensure proper stain development and make your stain last as long as possible.
1- SHOULD I WASH THE PASTE OFF?
No, you should not use water to remove your paste. You should be able to scrape most of the paste off with a stiff edge like a business card. If there are any stubborn bits of paste that won’t come off use any natural plant-based oil to remove it by rubbing it into the skin and using a dry paper towel to scrape the remaining paste off your skin.
2- HOW CAN I MAKE MY STAIN LAST LONGER?
Ideally, you want to keep your henna dry and warm for the first 24 hours. When you do have to get your design wet, covering it with either a henna aftercare balm or any natural, plant-based oil will create a barrier to protect your stain.
3- HOW LONG WILL MY HENNA LAST?
The average stain, depending on placement and care, will last 10-14 days and begin fading as your skin renews itself. Keeping the area well moisturized will help a great deal to keep your stain going strong for a long time.
This information is for Red Henna Paste.
Jagua gel after care is slightly different.
Jagua gel should be left on the skin for a minimum of two hours. After the two hour mark, the paste must be washed off with soap and warm water in its entirety. Do not freak out if you feel like the design is gone completely. It will darken significantly in the next 24-48 hours.
