What is henna?

Henna is a flowering desert shrub that produces a natural red dye molecule called the lawsone. The henna leaves are harvested, dried, and ground into a fine powder which is made into a paste with a blend of essential oils and used for body art. Henna is used in many cultures but most popularly known as the body art "Mehndi," originating in India.

 

What is jagua?

Jagua is an unpasteurized, raw fruit juice from South America, known as Genipa Americana. Jagua on its own stains the skin blue/black, but it can be also added to henna paste to give it a darker colour. Since jagua is a raw fruit juice, it can raise sensitivities and is not recommended for anyone with an allergy to citrus or strawberries. 

 

Does the henna/jagua application hurt?

No. The paste is drawn onto your skin and does not burn or sting.  It has a gentle cooling effect on the skin from the essential oils. It contains no chemical dyes. Sensitive skin formulated henna cones are available upon request.

 

Are henna or jagua harmful to my body?

No, neither henna nor jagua are harmful to the body. They are both a natural, chemical-free, body art. Every henna cone I use has been hand-mixed by me with only organic henna powder, pure essential oils, vegan sugar, and water. I mix jagua juice with gluten-free, xanthan gum to create a gel paste. My cones contain either tea tree, cajeput, lavender or eucalyptus essential oils. Sensitive skin formulated cones are made with lavender essential oil which is ideal for pregnant women and children. I am certified as a natural henna user by the International Certification for Natural Henna Arts board (ICNHA). 

 

 

 

 

 

How long does it last?

Designs last about 7-14 days, depending on body chemistry, how long the paste remained on the skin, and location on the body. It is longest lasting on hands and feet and fades more quickly on the arms, chest, and back where the skin is thinner. For best results, henna or jagua paste should be kept on for 4-12 hours, followed by proper aftercare.

 

How much does it cost?

For private appointments, there is a $10 minimum. Appointments are charged according to an hourly rate of $55/hour for henna, and $60/hour for jagua. There is a design for everyone within any budget. Typically private appointments for a hand design take between 15-45 minutes. If you have any questions about pricing or a specific design, please email me.

 

My product contains NO chemical dyes, preservatives, black hair coloring, PPD, nut derivatives, or additives!