Is henna safe?
Natural henna is safe on healthy skin and has been used for thousands of years. Saarah's paste is henna powder, essential oils, sugar and lemon. What is not safe is so-called black henna, which contains PPD, a chemical hair dye that can burn and scar. Saarah has never used it and never will.
What is the paste made of?
Henna powder from the leaves of the henna plant, a blend of essential oils, sugar to help the paste stick, and lemon juice. Nothing else. It smells like a garden.
How long does henna last?
One to two weeks on hands and feet, sometimes longer with care. Palms and soles stain darkest and last longest. Skin that is washed or rubbed a lot fades first.
How does the stain develop?
When the paste comes off the stain is bright orange. Over the next 24 to 48 hours it darkens to a deep red-brown. That is why bridal henna is applied one to three days before the ceremony.
How do I look after it?
Leave the paste on as long as you can, at least three to six hours, and keep it warm. Scrape it off rather than washing it off. Avoid water for the first 12 hours. A little natural oil or balm protects the stain. Hot water, sea water, scrubs and dishwashing fade it faster.
Can I get henna if I am pregnant?
Yes. Natural henna is fine in pregnancy, which is why belly art is possible at all. If you have any concerns, check with your midwife and mention the essential oils in the paste.
Can children have henna?
Yes. Saarah uses the same natural paste on children as on brides. She avoids drawing on children under three and on any broken skin.
Do you travel?
Yes, across the Wellington region. Travel is included within 25 km of Upper Hutt. Further away is quoted per booking.
Do you have a studio?
Saarah works from home in Upper Hutt for individual appointments and travels to venues for weddings and events.
How do I book?
Send an enquiry through the book page, or call or message 021 026 88000. You will hear back within a day. A deposit holds the date once the quote is agreed.
Do you do white henna or jagua?
White henna is a body paint that sits on the skin for a few days and is popular for photographs and weddings. Ask when you enquire and Saarah will advise whether it suits your plans.
What about henna crowns?
Henna crowns are gifted. Anyone who has lost their hair through illness or alopecia can book a private, unhurried appointment at no charge.
Placeholder: stain progression clipFresh paste, two hours, 24 hours, 48 hours. A short clip showing the stain deepen replaces this image.
Still wondering?
Ask Saarah directly. A message on WhatsApp is usually answered the same day.