The three pictures on the right show the henna staining process.

Picture #1 is with the paste on.

Picture #2 is with the paste just removed.  The design will be orange at first.

Picture #3 is after 24 hours.  It takes 24-48 hours for the color to peak.

 The following are some steps you can follow to ensure a nice stain:

Henna looks different on everyone. Body chemistry, temperature and location on the body have a lot to do with how dark the stain will be. Thicker skin on the hands and feet stains much darker than the softer skin on the upper arm or back. Henna stains are darkest during the first 7-10 days, then it starts to fade.

LEAVE PASTE ON AS LONG AS POSSIBLE

At least 5-6 hours or more. Leave paste on overnight for best results. The longer the paste stays on the skin, the darker the stain will be.

You can use lemon juice or olive oil to remove the paste. You can also gently scrape the paste off or let it fall off naturally.  DO NOT USE WATER to remove paste. Try to keep the area dry for the first full day after you remove the paste as water will stop the darkening processes of your henna stain. Avoid cleaning products and chlorinated water. If you must get the area wet cover the henna design with lip balm, or olive oil. Reapply frequently. Do not use exfoliating scrubs, luffas or anything else intended to remove the dead surface skin. That's where the henna is! Henna stains take 48 hours to reach color peak.

MOISTURIZE

Apply some kind of natural oil after the paste is removed and before and after bathing. I like Burt's Bees lip balm. Some store bought moisturizers contain chemicals that can prematurely lighten the stain, so it's best to use something natural. Do not use moisturizers with fruit acids (Alpha-Hydroxy Acid). Avoid excess rubbing of the area

If you follow the above guidelines, your henna stain should last 1-2 weeks depending on body location and aftercare.

Frequent washing, soaps, petroleum products (sunscreen, Vaseline, baby oil) and the rubbing of clothing and shoes on the design will cause your henna design to fade quicker.