~ I recommend shaving a day before applying the henna so the henna can stick to the skin (optional but preferable if you desire a darker stain).
~ Leave the henna paste on for at least 8 hours - preferably overnight. The longer the henna stays on your skin, the darker the stain.
~ Use a lemon and sugar sealant to stop the henna from crumbling off.
~ You can use mefix tape or a stocking to sleep with the henna on.
~ Keep your hand warm for a darker stain.
~ You can steam the henna with cloves, before and after removal, for a darker stain.
~ Remove the henna with oil (not water).
~ After removal, use any oil / vapo-rub to intensify the colour of the stain and to protect the stain from water.
~ Minimise contact with water for 24hours.
*After removal, the stain will initially be orange and mature to a darker red over 24 - 48 hours.