Henna is an age-old method that can be used not only for coloring hair and hands but also for nails. It is considered a natural alternative to nail polish, giving nails a beautiful range of colors from light orange and soft red to deep brown. The application of mehndi on nails is similar to that on hands, although the technique may vary. So, if you’re looking for a chemical-free way to color your nails, henna might be the perfect solution.
Trivia
Henna has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, stomach pains, and skin conditions.
How to Apply Mehndi on Nails for Beginners
Here are a few steps to help you professionally apply mehndi on nails.
1. Prepare Your Mehndi Paste
When making nail mehndi at home, the first thing you need to work on is preparing the mehndi paste. To make the paste, mix the henna powder with lemon juice and water, creating a thick paste. Keep a watch while adding water, as you need to keep the paste wide. Cover the bowl and leave the mixture aside for 4 to 6 hours to allow the dye to mix thoroughly.
2. Clean Your Nails
The next step for mehndi nails is to get your nails prepared for it. Clean your nails properly, using witch hazel or dish soap, to remove all the dirt inside the nails. File them and cut them up to the proper shape. Avoid using soaps to clean your nails while applying mehndi, as they leave a film of the soap on the borders of the nails and cuticles. Trim them, giving them a perfect look.
3. Apply Petroleum Jelly
Applying petroleum jelly is crucial when thinking about colouring only your nails. When you apply petroleum jelly on your nails and surrounding, only your nails would catch the colour of the mehndi. Hence, apply petroleum jelly a few minutes before you apply mehndi on the nails.
4. Apply Henna to The Nails
When your nails are ready, it is time to apply mehndi nails on the fingers individually. You can apply the mehndi using a broad stick that has a broadness similar to the nails. Just apply a thick layer of mehndi on the nails one by one and allow the paste to dry completely. The more the mehndi would remain on your nails, the darker shade you would be able to get.
Quick Info
The color of henna on nails is determined by the quality of the henna powder used and the length of time the henna paste is left on the nails. The longer the paste is left on, the darker the color will be. Additionally, the color may continue to deepen over the course of a few days after the paste is removed.
5. Cover Your Nails
Once you have applied the mehndi on the nails and dried it, it is time to cover the fingertips or nails. Take a kitchen wrap and cut it into small pieces. You can also use foil paper or plastic for the same task. Cover your nails adequately, leaving no side open. You can also use cotton gloves for the night if keeping the mehndi overnight to obtain dark colour.
6. Remove The Paste from The Nails
For removing the henna from the nails, avoid the use of water or any other liquids. Gently scrape the mehndi from the nails and damp dry them using a paper towel. Ensure you avoid using water for the next 2 to 3 days to allow the colour to darken and oxidize. To protect your nails during showers, you can use butter or aftercare henna balm to keep the colour stable.
Fun Fact
Henna designs on nails can last anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks depending on factors such as the quality of the henna powder used, the application technique, and how well the henna is cared for after application. So, if you’re looking for a temporary and unique way to accessorize your nails, henna nail art might be the perfect choice!
7. Other Tips
Girls looking for black nails naturally can also apply black mehndi for nails for long-lasting colour. Some also use diamonds, colour shades, etc., to decorate the nails by giving them a new pattern known as nail art. Such decorations are widely done in marriages and other such occasions.
When you apply mehndi on nails, you don’t only colour them but also protect them from becoming healthy and strong. They are also beneficial for reducing any fungal infection in a herbal way. It helps in making your nails strong and long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is henna safe for use on nails?
Yes, henna is generally considered safe for use on nails as long as it is applied correctly and with high-quality henna powder. However, people with sensitive skin or allergies should be cautious and may want to do a patch test before applying henna to their nails.How do I prepare the henna paste for nail application?
To prepare henna paste for nail application, you will need to mix henna powder with water and lemon juice to form a thick paste. The paste should be smooth and free of lumps. You can also add essential oils or other ingredients to enhance the color and fragrance of the henna paste.How long does henna last on nails?
Henna can last on nails for up to four weeks, depending on how well the henna is cared for after application. The color may gradually fade over time as the nails grow out.Can I apply henna on top of existing nail polish?
It is not recommended to apply henna on top of existing nail polish, as this can affect the color and longevity of the henna. It is best to remove any existing nail polish before applying henna.How do I remove henna stains from my nails?
Henna stains on nails will naturally fade over time as the nails grow out. However, you can also use a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda to gently scrub the stains off your nails. Be sure to moisturize your nails afterward to prevent them from becoming dry and brittle.
Key Takeaways
- Henna has been used for thousands of years as a form of body art and has many health benefits.
- Henna can be used as a natural alternative to traditional nail polish, and can help to strengthen nails and promote growth.
- To apply henna on nails, you will need to mix henna powder with water and lemon juice to form a thick paste, then apply it to your nails in a design of your choice.
- Henna on nails can last up to four weeks, and the color can deepen over time.
- It is important to care for your henna nails properly to ensure they last as long as possible.
- Henna stains on nails can be removed using a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda.
