Real henna is a greenish-brown paste. While the powder itself is a fragrant green, when mixed with hot water to form the paste used for body art, it becomes a greenish-brown color.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Henna Powder: In its dry, powdered form, henna is typically green. The shade of green can vary depending on the source of the henna plant, the processing methods used, and its age.
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Henna Paste: When mixed with a liquid (typically water, but sometimes lemon juice, tea, or other liquids) to create a paste suitable for application to the skin, the color transforms to greenish-brown. This is the color of the paste that's actually applied to the skin.
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Stain Color: The actual stain left on the skin by henna, after the paste is removed, is typically reddish-brown. The exact shade can range from a light orange-brown to a deep, rich mahogany color. Several factors can influence the final color of the stain, including:
- Henna Quality: High-quality henna, with a high lawsone content (the dye molecule in henna), will produce a darker, richer stain.
- Skin Chemistry: Individual skin chemistry can affect how the henna dye interacts with the skin.
- Application Time: The longer the henna paste remains in contact with the skin, the darker the stain will be.
- Aftercare: Proper aftercare, such as keeping the area warm and avoiding water for extended periods, can contribute to a darker stain.
It is crucial to understand that "black henna" is not real henna. Black henna contains a chemical dye called paraphenylenediamine (PPD), which can cause severe allergic reactions and permanent scarring. Real henna never stains black immediately.
In summary, while henna powder is green, the henna paste is greenish-brown, and the resulting stain on the skin is reddish-brown. Black henna is dangerous and not authentic henna.
