Henna Aftercare
Your henna stain will darken over 24–48 hours, especially with warmth. Keep your hands dry for the first day and avoid water, soap, or scrubbing. Expect the stain to peak around day 2–3 and fade slowly over 1–2 weeks. Stains on hands and feet last longest, while other spots fade faster.
Pro tip: If you have to shower, oil up first to act as a barrier. Also don’t sleep with the henna still drying especially on your face because it will stain!
1. Leave it on for 6–8 hours (or overnight if you’re about that life)
The longer it sits, the deeper the stain. Don’t wash it off early!
2. Don’t wash it off with water
Scrape it off instead. Use a butter knife, the back of a spoon, or just rub it off with your fingers. Water right after = faded stain.
3. Optional (for a darker stain)
You can dab with a cotton pad on a lemon sugar mix to help the paste stay sticky and stain deeper. Or just gently wrap your design with tissue or medical tape if you’re leaving it on overnight.
4. Apply natural oils after removal
Think coconut oil, olive oil, or even shea butter. This protects the stain and keeps it moisturized. Don’t use lotion with alcohol — it dries things out and weakens the stain.
