Library regular Karolina F (F5) shows off her beautifully decorated hands. Karolina had these beautiful designs done in Dundee.

So, what is henna? Historically, henna has long been used for body art, mostly in India – since ancient times – although it has also been used in the Arabian Peninsula, South Asia, and North Africa, etc.

Today, henna is still hugely popular as a purely cosmetic body decoration – for socialising and fun. Bridal ‘Henna Nights’ are still an important custom in many countries’ cultures though, especially among traditional families.

Henna dye is made from the leaves of the Henna plant and produces the typically red/brown colour seen in Karolina’s beautiful tattoo designs. This is temporary body art; skin is effectively being stained brown but the dye will, eventually, fade away. Henna has also been used since antiquity to dye skin, hair and fingernails, as well as fabrics including silk, wool and leather.

Be careful though! Recently the dangers of having so-called ‘black henna’ tattoos and using henna hair dye have been highlighted after the death of a woman who suffered an allergic reaction. Black henna is illegal within the EU as it contains paraphenylenediamine (PPD), which can cause lasting damage to the skin.

Written By: Miss Stewart

Pictures:

Madhuri Dixit: desktopdress.com