How to Make Henna Paste

Here is the basic recipe for making your own henna paste.

Ingredients:

Henna Powder

The fresher, the better -- old henna powder will stain skin poorly.

Finely sifted henna powder is also ideal for use in applicators with small tips.

Acidic Liquid

Fresh citrus juice (lemon or lime) is ideal; other acidic liquids like cola, tea, wine or vinegar will work too. Be conscious of what you mix into the paste, as you will apply it directly to your skin. You will smell of later! Wine and vinegar can be quite nasty!!

The majority of your henna paste will contain the acidic liquid, so make sure you have enough on hand.

Sugar

White sugar, dextrose, brown sugar, molasses, maple syrup, honey, agave etc.

This keeps the henna paste for cracking and flaking off after it dries.

Essential Oil (optional)

Essential oils containing terpineols that give your henna stain a slight boost. They also add fragrance. Lavender is the mildest and safest "terp."

Use the highest-quality essential oil (therapeutic grade) you can find. Don't use aromatheraphy oils -- these contain other ingredients and are not intended for use on skin.

Cheap essential oils often contain adulterants that can cause nausea, dermitis or worse! If you plan to use essential oils, buy from a reputable source.

Learn more: "Terps" (Henna Page)

Basic Henna Recipe:

Note: Yield amount

  • Spoon henna powder in a clear glass bowl.
  • Slowly add small amounts of acidic liquid to the henna powder. Use a spoon to mix thoroughly.
  • When all of the henna powder has been moistened, it will be a very thick paste. Spread it out in the bowl.
  • Cover bowl with cling wrap and set in a dark, warm spot (NOT in the sun and NOT directly on a heat source)
  • Leave the bowl for 4-8 hours, until you can see dye release on the surface of the thick henna paste (compare with unexposed henna paste at bottom of bowl if you aren't sure).
  • When it's ready, stir it up with a spoon.
  • OPTIONAL: Add a few drops of essential oil.
  • Mix in the sugar.
  • Carefully add small amounts of acidic liquid and blend thoroughly. The final consistency should be like toothpaste or yogurt.
  • Let your mixed paste sit for an hour or two before using. Or you can put it immediately into the freezer. (Fresh henna paste will demise rapidly if left unfrozen.)

Learn more: Henna Page recipe with photos