Step 4: Apply the henna
There are many methods for applying henna including frosting bags, jacquard bottles with metal tips, syringes, mylar cones, stencils and brushes. Bags are traditional and can be combined with tips. Mylar cones seem to be a favorite with henna slingers. Bottles and tips provide good control. I don't recommend stencils, they can be very mesy. Brushes require thinner paste. If you want to try a brush, be sure to use one with natural hairs. If a design is complicated, you may find it easier to sketch the design on the skin with a watercolor pencil. For great instructions on each of these methods, check out the Henna Page's application page. Remeber to clean and exfoliate your skin first.

Step 5: Seal the henna
The longer you can keep the henna paste on, the darker the stain will be. The most common method of “sealing” a henna design is spritzing a mixture of lemon juice and sugar over the skin. The sugar draws moisture and keeps the henna on the skin longer. Another effective method is to use a strong hold hair gel in a spray bottle. You can also try brushing glue, liquid latex or Nu-Skin liquid bandage over the design once it is dry. Putting medical tape over the design will also help secure it.

If you have the luxury, you can also wrap your design in toilet paper, then wrap it in plastic wrap and tape it shut or put a sock or glove over it. This will create a warm, moist environment for the henna to work. You could also try applying steam to the design. Be careful not to hurt yourself, though.

Step 6: After care for the henna
To make a henna design last as long as possible, keep the skin smooth and moist to cut down on exfoliation. Exfoliation is what causes the stain to fade. You can also reapply henna every couple days to keep the design fresh. If you need to get rid of the design, gently wash with bleach and a facial scrub several times a day for 2 or 3 days.