Let henna dry at least 20 minutes. Then apply sealant or tape when you can touch the paste and it doesn't come off on your finger, and BEFORE it starts to flake off. Your henna artist should provide the sealant or tape for you.

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Leave paste on for a minimum of 6 hours. 8-12 or overnight ensures optimal pigment absorption, resulting in a darker, longer lasting stain. The longer you leave the past on, the deeper the henna will soak into the skin. Henna generally stops releasing pigment after 12 hours, so it is not necessary to leave it on longer, however some prefer to leave it on for a full 24 hours. There is no risk involved in leaving henna on longer than 12 hours.

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The warmer the body temperature, the darker the henna will stain. Make sure to keep your core temperature the warmest as it comfortable for you. Pores naturally open and are more receptive to the absorption of the henna pigment. Henna is also a natural cooling agent, so you will want to pay closer attention to the henna'd area and make sure it is warm enough to absorb the stain.

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Pick or scrape paste off after 6-8 hours. Do not wash henna paste off. Remove stubborn pieces with natural oils such as coconut or olive oil, or even butter or lard.

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After Paste Removal:

NO WATER CONTACT FOR 24 HOURS. Washing henna paste off with water will only wash out the stain and leave you with a faint, short-lived design. Your stain needs a chance to oxidize on the skin, so keep it protected from water with olive oil, coconut oil or any other plant or animal-based product.

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Petrochemically based products such as baby oil or vaseline will encourage the shedding of skin cells and thus contribute to the demise of your stain. 

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When the paste comes off, you will see an orange stain...DO NOT PANIC...the stain will progress from an orange to red brown in 48-72 hours. This is the beauty of natural henna.

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Avoid exfoliation or the rubbing of fabrics and clothing to keep your henna stain fresher longer. For instance, foot henna during the winter when boots and socks are often necessary will result in the henna stain's earlier demise.