How do you make henna tattoos?

Henna is a great way to create designs on your skin in a safe and non-permanent way. Henna paste, which is used for henna tattoos, is very easy to make. To make henna paste, you need fresh henna powder (which can be found at an Indian grocery store), lemon juice, sugar, essentials oils, a non-metal mixing bowl and spoon, plastic wrap, a plastic bag, a decorating tip and soap.

1. Add the first four ingredients

   Make sure your fresh henna powder is not too brown, because that means it is too old. Stir together ¼ cup of henna powder, ¼ cup of lemon juice, 1 ½ teaspoons of sugar and 1 ½ teaspoons of essential oil. Continue stirring until the texture is silky.

2. Cover the henna in plastic wrap

   Cover the henna with plastic wrap and let it sit for 24 hours. This draws out the dye in the henna. At the end of the 24 hours, the henna should still look the same, but it should have a slightly thicker consistency.

3. Scoop the henna paste into the applicator

   Once the 24 hours are over, cut off a corner of the plastic bag and place the decorating tip into the bag. Pour the henna paste into the plastic bag. Use the henna immediately or freeze it for future use.

4. Apply the henna to your skin

   Before applying your henna tattoo, it is best to wash the skin thoroughly. Once it is clean, place the applicator tip on your skin and start creating the design you want by pressing the applicator lightly. After 10 hours, gently blot the dried henna paste until it comes off and then rinse your skin with soap and water.