The plant henna - scientifically known as Lawsonia Inermis - is a tall flowering plant that thrives in the desert. Henna powder is made from the plant’s dried, crushed up leaves. To create my henna paste, this powder is mixed with 3 simple ingredients: lemon juice, raw sugar, and therapeutic-grade essential oils (lavender and cajeput are interchanged).

Henna paste is applied to clean skin through a tube that is comparable to a carrot cone for frosting cakes. The paste takes about 30 minutes to dry. As it sets on the skin, the henna attaches to the keratin proteins within the first few layers of your skin leaving a beautiful stain that ranges from a light orange all the way to a deep reddish brown. The paste I create leaves a deep brown stain.

Once the henna has set on the skin for 4 - 12 hours, the paste is removed by hand. The stain starts off as a bright orange color and after 48 hours, the stain transforms into its darkest form.

Typically, henna lasts 1-2 weeks depending on how long you keep the paste on, your skin type, and how well you take care of it.

After henna is applied, it’s best to avoid water contact for 24 hours. Water can bring the dye back out of the skin. When the henna paste is removed from the skin after 4 - 12 hours, there will be a bright orange stain. Apply Henna Balm to the area. This will help darken the stain and increase its longevity. Before going into the shower or any water, apply the Henna Balm or coconut/jojoba oil to the design to protect it from the water.

Anybody! From kids to grandparents to grown men - henna holds no boundaries in this aspect.

You’ll find me at markets and events all around the Outer Banks and Virginia Beach areas. Follow my social media (links are at the bottom of the page) to see where I’ll be next!

You can also book a private appointment/event with me under the Services tab.

No. Naturally, henna does not achieve a black stain. If you ever see someone offering black henna, it has paraphenylenediamine (PPD) in it. This is a chemical that is approved by the FDA to be used in hair dye but has not been approved to be used in cosmetics that are used on the skin. PPD can create an allergic reaction that can send people to the emergency room. I take pride in making my own paste that’s safe for your skin. The henna powder that I use is all natural and sourced from Rajasthan, India.