What is Henna?
Henna is derived from a plant named Lawsonia inermis. Twice a year the leaves are harvested, dried, and ground into a fine powder. Henna powder is traditionally used to dye hair and skin. Professional artists create their own original recipe to make the paste. At The Original Henna Company, freshly sourced pure henna powder is combined with eucalyptus oil, clove oil, lemon juice, tea, and jagua juice. Everything is made from scratch and fresh to ensure quality. No shortcuts are taken, and no synthetic dyes are added. True henna develops its rich color naturally over time, honoring the traditions that have endured for generations.
Important Advisory on "Black Henna" and Our Safe, Natural Alternative: Jagua
“Black henna” is not true henna but contains Para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a chemical dye that is illegal for skin use and poses serious health risks including allergic reactions, blistering, and scarring.
When seeking henna outside of established studios, always ask about ingredients and request a test patch on your inner wrist. Be cautious of products labeled with color names like “red henna,” “burgundy henna,” or “black henna”—these indicate synthetic dyes have been added. True henna is entirely natural, with color that develops solely from the plant itself.
At The Original Henna Company, you can rest assured that all henna is pure, natural, and made from scratch with no synthetic dyes. Our henna is very safe to use for those with sensitive skin, immunocompromised individuals, children, and pregnant women. We also offer Jagua, a 100% natural alternative sourced from the forests of Panama and Peru, providing a darker stain ranging from bluish-gray to black, without the risks of “black henna.
“Black henna” is not true henna but contains Para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a chemical dye that is illegal for skin use and poses serious health risks including allergic reactions, blistering, and scarring.
When seeking henna outside of established studios, always ask about ingredients and request a test patch on your inner wrist. Be cautious of products labeled with color names like “red henna,” “burgundy henna,” or “black henna”—these indicate synthetic dyes have been added. True henna is entirely natural, with color that develops solely from the plant itself.
At The Original Henna Company, you can rest assured that all henna is pure, natural, and made from scratch with no synthetic dyes. Our henna is very safe to use for those with sensitive skin, immunocompromised individuals, children, and pregnant women. We also offer Jagua, a 100% natural alternative sourced from the forests of Panama and Peru, providing a darker stain ranging from bluish-gray to black, without the risks of “black henna.
How much does it cost and how long will the application take?
Henna pricing depends on the complexity and size of the design. A traditional, intricate hand design with all fingers included up to the wrist is approximately $45. If your design extends above the wrist toward the elbow or covers additional body areas, the price increases accordingly. For simpler designs or custom requests, we welcome a consultation.
Application time will depend on the intricacy and size of the design. You are welcome to send your design ideas via text or email, and we can discuss both timing and pricing together.
How long will the henna stain last?
Henna and Jagua typically last about two weeks, though longevity depends on how well the stain is cared for. To maximize color development and longevity, keep the design away from water for at least 24 hours after application. Eucalyptus oil and tea tree oil will deepen the stain. Chest rubs containing eucalyptus oil also help enhance the color.
Staining varies by individual and body location. Henna takes best on thick, dry, more alkaline, and warmer skin. The palms and feet develop the darkest stain and retain it longest. On thinner, oilier areas such as the upper arm, upper back, stomach, chest, neck, and thigh, the stain will be noticeably lighter and fade more quickly.
Friction and water exposure both affect longevity. Minimize contact with clothing and frequent washing of the hennaed area, as both cause gradual exfoliation of the stain. The less the design is rubbed and washed, the longer it will remain vibrant
Staining varies by individual and body location. Henna takes best on thick, dry, more alkaline, and warmer skin. The palms and feet develop the darkest stain and retain it longest. On thinner, oilier areas such as the upper arm, upper back, stomach, chest, neck, and thigh, the stain will be noticeably lighter and fade more quickly.
Friction and water exposure both affect longevity. Minimize contact with clothing and frequent washing of the hennaed area, as both cause gradual exfoliation of the stain. The less the design is rubbed and washed, the longer it will remain vibrant
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