Stain & Aftercare

What is Henna Stain?

A henna stain is the colour left on the skin after the paste is removed. It begins bright orange, then darkens through oxidation to reddish-brown or maroon over 24-48 hours, and gradually fades as the skin exfoliates.

Henna Stain explained

Stain depth depends on paste quality, how long the paste stays on, body heat and where it is applied: palms and fingertips stain darkest, arms and the backs of hands stain lighter.

A stain usually looks its best two days after application, which is why brides schedule mehendi one or two days before the wedding.

Also searched as: mehendi colour · mehndi stain · mehendi rang

Mehendi designs related to henna stain

Back Hand Mehendi

Back hand mehendi is any design applied to the back of the hand and fingers - the side most visible in daily life and photographs - ranging from a single Arabic trail to full bridal coverage.

Front Hand (Palm) Mehendi

Front hand mehendi is a design applied to the palm and inner fingers, the placement that develops the darkest, richest stain because palm skin is thicker and absorbs more dye.

Related mehendi terms

Stain DevelopmentStain development is the 24-48 hour process in which a fresh orange henna stain darkens to its final reddish-brown colour as the lawsone in the skin oxidises. Warmth helps; water and soap in the first hours slow it down.Dark Mehendi StainA dark mehendi stain is a deep maroon or reddish-brown colour achieved with fresh natural paste, leaving it on for 6-12 hours, sealing it with lemon-sugar, keeping the area warm, and avoiding water for several hours after removal.Palm vs Arm StainPalm vs arm stain describes why mehendi looks darker on palms and fingertips than on the backs of hands, arms and legs: palm skin has a thicker layer of keratin, which absorbs more dye.Stain FadingStain fading is the natural lightening of a mehendi design as the stained top layer of skin exfoliates. Most designs last one to three weeks, with palms fading faster from washing and arms and feet lasting longer.

Ready to book your mehendi artist?

Compare verified artists, portfolios and per-hand prices across Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thane.