Lesson 3 / 6

Mehendi: natural only, never "black henna"

Natural henna stains orange-brown to deep maroon. "Black henna" or "kali mehendi" that turns jet-black in minutes usually has PPD (para-phenylenediamine) added — a hair-dye chemical that is not meant to stay on skin.

• ✦PPD on skin can cause blisters, weeping sores, scars and lasting light or dark patches. Reactions can show up days or even two to three weeks later.
• ✦One reaction can make a person allergic to PPD for life — including to hair dyes later.
• ✦Use only natural henna. If a cone promises "black in 5 minutes", don't use it.
• ✦Tell your client honestly: natural henna darkens over 24–48 hours, and that's how she knows it's safe.
• ✦Cones: one cone per client for bridal work; never use a cone that smells of chemicals.