Mehndi is the application of henna as a temporary form of skin decoration, most popular in South Asia, the Middle East and North Africa.
It is typically employed for special occasions, particularly weddings. It is usually drawn on the hands and feet, where the designs will last the longest due to the fact that it only penetrates the dead cells of the stratum corneum. Mehndi (Henna) is a natural product that comes from a bush called Lawsonia Inermis. A plant, growing in size from 3 to 5 feet and can vary slightly from region to regi
on. Its leaves are then dried and ground to make the henna powder. Since it is a natural product, there are no known side effects. Henna is used for hair dye, as a skin conditioner and as a reliever for rashes. The art of Mehndi is referred to henna as well, depending on where you are and which name you feel came first. No matter what you call it though, the art form remains essentially the same as it was centuries ago. It is beautiful the way it stains the skin! Unlike other black pigment tattoos, Mehndi is not a huge commitment because of its temporary nature. For people who are too scared to endure the poking of a needle or are too ambivalent to commit to wearing the same permanent design forever, Mehndi is a wonderful alternative. In India, it is used in a celebration like Weddings, Diwali, Navratri, Eid, Teej or Karva Chauth festival and other special occasions. The patterns of Mehndi are typically quite intricate and predominantly applied to brides before wedding ceremonies. However, traditions in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sudan sometimes expect bridegrooms to be painted as well. In modern era, Mehndi is also very popular for a Valentine’s Day, a formal party, ladies party or even an evening at a disco. In its new avatar, Mehndi has been elevated to the status of body art and a fashion accessory for the fashion-conscious youngsters. When we are talking about natural Mehndi (Henna), lets talk about Black Mehndi (Black Henna) as well. The henna powder is made by drying and grinding the leaves of a henna plant (lawsonia inermis). "Black Henna" has other ingredients than natural henna added in them. A chemical dye called Para-Phenylenediamine, referred to as PPD, is often used to create a fast-taking, jet-black result. Unfortunately PPD is very harmful on skin, often causing a so-called chemical burn. This is much like a strong allergic reaction, many people get it and many don't, but it is advisable not to take the risk. A black henna burn takes a long time to get better and often leaves a scar. Please stay away from these products and stick to the pure henna. Allergic reactions of the henna are very rare, it is safe to use and the result is beautiful.
