Many people have heard of henna tattoos, but how many have a better understanding of what they are? We’re here to help you with that. For those unaware with henna tattoo, it is a centuries-old art form in which designs with deep and often spiritual meaning are made with a temporary brown dye rather of ink. While body adornment dates back over 5,000 years, it is today mostly used to communicate great luck and happiness, and it is commonly seen at ceremonial events such as weddings and births.

We sat down with Shaily Savla, a henna tattoo artist in Los Angeles, to learn more about different henna patterns and their meanings.

What Is Henna?

While the term “henna” is Arabic in origin and is associated with a variety of cultures and religions, it is most commonly associated with India, where it is known as mehndi. Henna is an important element of many Indian festivals, including Diwali, engagements, and weddings, according to Savla. Henna is a temporary dye that has acquired appeal because of its beauty, yet it is more of a ceremony in Indian culture. “Mehndi is frequently used during a separate celebration for the wedding ceremony,” Savla notes. “There’s an old proverb that says the darker the mehndi, the stronger the marriage.”

Also read, 5 Things You Can Do to Improve Your Henna Art Skills

How Long Does It Last?

Those who are unfamiliar with the procedure may wonder if henna tattoos are permanent. While they are, there are a few elements that influence how long they last. “The longer it is allowed to permeate into the skin, the darker it will get,” Savla explains.It will remain longer if it is darker.” She goes on to explain how the placement of the henna affects how long it lasts.She continues, “Hands and feet that are constantly touched and exposed to water and soap may fade after one week and disappear completely after two weeks.”

Popular Patterns and Their Meanings

You may feel overwhelmed by your selections if you’re new to the world of henna tattooing. Savla outlines nine diverse henna tattoo designs that you can’t go wrong with, along with their meanings.

“This is a lotus-like sign that denotes unity and is most typically observed on the palms,” Sahasrara says.

Peacock: Peacock, Peacock, Peacock, Peacock, Pe “India’s national bird, the peacock, is a symbol of beauty, and its feathers are thought to bring prosperity. Birds also represent the connection between the heavens and the earth. The hands and back are frequently used.”

“These species are considered to symbolise metamorphosis or rebirth and new beginnings,” according to dragonflies and butterflies.

Paisley patterns are frequently observed on the hands and feet.”

“Flowers are widely included in designs because they symbolise beauty and new beginnings, with the lotus flower being the most popular.”  It’s a representation of elegance, purity, and the human heart. Flowers are commonly placed on the hands and back.”

Plants with leaves and vines: “These are endurance and strength symbols. The fingers are the most usual location.”

“An eye, also known as an evil eye symbol, is a symbol of protection from negative thoughts and wishes.” They’re more frequently found on the back of the neck or on the hand.”

“Snakes and lizards aren’t as frequent in traditional henna designs, but they’re thought to represent searchers of knowledge.”

Om: I’d want to say something “Om is a well-known spiritual symbol or chant that relates to both the self and the global spirit. It’s widely worn on the hand, arms, and back, and is sometimes embellished as a statement piece with decorations around it.”

Also read, 5 Things You Can Do to Improve Your Henna Art Skills

How Do You Care For a Henna Tattoo?

While there are a few things you can do to extend the life of your henna tattoo, they usually only last three to four weeks. The dye will start to fade after around 10 to 15 days, but it should still have a strong color and opacity before then. The following are some henna care instructions.

After you’ve applied it, don’t touch it. Allow 30 minutes for the henna to dry and become resistant to smearing after application.

Stay away from the water. When you’re showering, bathing, or doing the dishes, cover it up.

Chemicals should be avoided. Salt water, strong chemicals (including hand sanitizer), and chlorine should all be avoided.

Keep it moisturized at all times. Henna, like self-tanners, requires humidity to keep it from fading.

How Do You Remove a Henna Tattoo?

Are you ready to get rid of your henna? Use a pumice stone or loofah, as well as a body exfoliant like Yes To’s Coconut Polishing Body Scrub, to exfoliate. Alternatively, mix a cup of olive oil with a couple teaspoons of sea salt and apply the mixture to the henna to assist the dye lift from the skin.

How Much Does It Cost?

Henna tattoos are often much less expensive than ink-based tattoos applied with a gun or stick and poke equipment, which can range from $100 to $1000 depending on size and location. At fairs and artisan markets, henna can be purchased for as little as $5. They can get more expensive for larger pieces and more detailed designs, but they’re still a fraction of the price of a permanent tattoo. The henna artist’s experience and technique also play a part, according to Savla. “Skilled painters are swift and have mastered freehand sketching, which is a significant part of henna,” she explains. ” However, if a special design is desired, such as a symbol, it may cost around $20.

How to Learn to Henna

Do you want to learn how to apply henna on your own? If that’s the case, the most effective approach to master it is to simply practice, practice, and practice. You can acquaint yourself with the art form and get educated enough to be able to do it on your own by watching YouTube videos, reading books, and speaking with professionals. Once you’ve mastered the meanings of the patterns and symbols and are competent with a few basic sets, you may begin practicing on willing relatives and friends. Try making your own henna paste so you can achieve the consistency that works best for you when applying it, according to Savla. This also allows you to experiment with different chemical combinations to achieve the greatest color result, as well as locate the cone form that works best for you.

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