Mehendi is the application of henna as a temporary form of skin decoration in Pakistan and India, as well as by expatriate communities from these areas. Henna is typically applied during special occasions like weddings and festivals. It is usually drawn on the palms and feet, where the color will be darkest because the skin contains higher levels of keratin which binds temporarily to lawsone, the colorant of henna. Henna was originally used as a form of decoration mainly for brides.
In Arabic countries such as Morocco, and some other countries in Central Asia, India, it is applied on any special occasion. It is done during the seventh month of pregnancy, after having the baby, weddings, engagements, family get-togethers, diwali, as well as on other occasions.
Every henna artist has a favorite tool for applying henna, and no two artists use their tools in exactly the same way. Fifty years ago, artists used pins and needles to apply delicate patterns, but now artists find that cones made of plastic and mylar make the work go faster, and with greater delicacy and control.
Try many different tools. Different situations require different techniques. See what works for you!
