If you would like to try getting a body tattoo but are not that eager to get a permanent tattoo which you may only regret in the future, a temporary tattoo can be a good choice. Temporary tattoos in the form of henna tattoos are becoming popular among youngsters nowadays. If you opt to get a henna tattoo, you can sport a great design, impress your friends, and help yourself decide if something more committed like permanent ink tattoos is really your thing.

You can easily get a henna tattoo from a skilled artist at an established tattooing salon, but if you want to try your hand at making henna tattoos, you can also do this at home by yourself. All you need is a pen and paper where you will sketch your initial designs, good-quality henna, a brush applicator, tissues, gloves, and old clothes. Getting a temporary tattoo is a fun and learning experience if you do it right at the convenience of your own home.

The Henna and Skin Test

You should shop for good quality henna mixes only at reputable pharmacies and cosmetic shops. Remember that henna with the purest mixture is best because it is least likely to cause allergies.

Before painting a large amount of skin with henna, you should make sure that you are not allergic to the henna mixture that you chose. Perform a skin test on an inconspicuous skin area such as on the inner side of your forearm. Apply a small dot of henna mixture, let it dry, and observe it for a few days. If there are no signs of irritation such as redness, swelling, or itchiness, you can proceed with painting on your design. If you experience any of the listed symptoms, discontinue use and look for another hypoallergenic henna brand.

*Helpful Tip: Adding a bit of sugar or lemon extract can help reduce skin irritation, if there is any.

Working on the Design

Upon concluding that your skin is okay with you painting a henna tattoo on it, it is time to work on your design. If you are a newbie, you can stick with simple Celtic designs. Grab a tattoo design book or search for reference pictures on the Net. You may also work on your own design if you wish. Make a clean copy of your design on a blank sheet of paper so it can be used as reference while applying the henna on your skin.

Application

Wear old clothes and use a glove while working on your henna tattoo. Henna can stain clothes easily, so don’t forget to wear an outfit that you wouldn’t hate to throw away after getting your henna tattoo. Draw a faint sketch of your design on the skin where you want your henna tattoo to be placed. Follow this sketch carefully as you apply the henna with a small brush. Let the henna dry for 1-2 hours before dusting off the dried henna mix. Wash the area after 4 hours.

Finishing Touches

Congratulations with your new henna tattoo! However, before going out to show it off to your friends, make sure to properly clean the area first with mild soap and warm water. Your henna tattoo is expected to last for a few weeks. If you want to get a new henna tattoo after your first one fades, make it a point to let the first tattoo fade completely before reapplying. This will help your skin breath properly and look as natural as before.