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Henna Tattoo Ink & Kits: Your Complete Guide to Natural Body Art

Published by Alan Shugarman on 22nd Aug 2025

Henna tattoos have been celebrated around the world for centuries. From weddings and festivals to casual self-expression, they’re a safe and beautiful way to decorate your skin with intricate designs. But as henna grows in popularity, many first-time users ask the same questions: What exactly is henna tattoo ink? How do I use it? What comes in a henna tattoo kit?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about henna tattoo ink and kits - from how to apply it to making your designs last longer. Whether you’re trying henna for the first time or stocking up on supplies, Henna King has all the tools you need to create gorgeous, natural body art.

A woman with henna tattoo from Henna King.


What Is Henna Tattoo Ink?

Henna tattoo ink is made from the leaves of the Lawsonia inermis plant, dried and ground into a fine powder. When mixed with natural liquids (like lemon juice or tea) and essential oils, henna becomes a smooth paste that stains the skin with deep orange, red, or brown tones.

Unfortunately, not all products labeled “henna ink” are created equal. Some chemical versions—especially so-called “black henna”—contain dangerous additives like PPD (para-phenylenediamine), which can cause burns, blisters, and allergic reactions.

That’s why it’s important to always choose pure, natural henna from a trusted source. At Henna King, our Henna Ink is 100% plant-based, chemical-free, and safe for skin application.


How to Use Henna Ink for Tattoos

Applying henna tattoos at home is easier than you think! With the right ink and tools, you can create designs that last up to two weeks.

Step-by-Step Application:

  1. Prep Your Skin: Wash the area with soap and water to remove oils or lotions. Dry completely.

  2. Apply the Henna: Use a cone, bottle, or applicator tip to draw your design directly onto the skin.

  3. Drying Time: Henna needs to stay on the skin for several hours (the longer the better). A common question is: “How long does henna take to dry?” The surface typically dries in 20–30 minutes, but for the deepest stain, leave the paste on for 4–6 hours.

  4. Seal the Design: Once the henna begins to dry, you can lightly dab it with a lemon-sugar mixture to help lock in the color.

  5. Remove the Paste: Gently scrape away the dried henna instead of washing it off with water. The color will continue to darken over the next 24–48 hours.

For more detailed guidance, check out our full How to Use Henna Guide.


Choosing the Right Henna Tattoo Kit

If you’re new to henna or simply want everything in one package, a henna tattoo kit is the perfect solution. Kits make it easy to get started without needing to buy supplies separately.

At Henna King, our Henna Tattoo Kits include:

  • Fresh, natural henna ink or cones.

  • Applicators for drawing fine lines and patterns.

  • Stencils and Henna Tattoo Designs for inspiration.

  • Instructions to help first-time users achieve great results.

By starting with a kit, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips—whether you’re decorating for a special occasion or just experimenting with body art.

A young woman applying a henna tattoo from Henna King to a friends arm.


Safe & Natural: Why You Should Avoid Chemical Henna

When shopping for henna, you might see options marketed as “instant color” or “black henna.” While tempting, these products often contain harmful chemicals that can damage your skin.

Natural henna:

  • Stains only in shades of orange, red, or brown.

  • Requires time to develop (stains deepen over 1–2 days).

  • Conditions the skin naturally and safely.

Chemical “black henna”:

  • Contains harsh dyes or PPD.

  • Can cause painful burns, rashes, or permanent scarring.

  • Is not a safe or true form of henna.

Henna King products are always free from chemicals, PPD, and metallic salts—ensuring that your henna experience is not only beautiful but also safe.


FAQs About Henna Tattoo Ink & Kits

How long do henna tattoos last?
Typically, henna designs last 7–14 days depending on where they’re applied and how well they’re cared for.

Can I use henna tattoo ink on my hair?
Yes, henna is safe for both skin and hair, but we recommend using formulas designed specifically for Henna Hair Color for the best results.

How can I make my henna tattoos last longer?

  • Keep the paste on your skin for as long as possible.

  • Avoid water for the first 12–24 hours after removing the paste.

  • Moisturize with natural oils (like coconut or olive oil) to protect the stain.

What comes in a henna tattoo kit?
Our Henna Tattoo Kits include henna ink, applicators, stencils, and instructions—everything you need to create stunning designs at home.


Create Beautiful Body Art with Natural Henna

Henna tattoos are more than just body art—they’re a celebration of tradition, culture, and creativity. With the right henna tattoo ink and a reliable henna kit, you can safely explore this art form and enjoy designs that look stunning for weeks.

Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, festival, or simply want to try something new, Henna King has you covered with safe, natural products that make application easy.

Ready to get started? Shop our Henna Cones, Henna Tattoo Kits and Henna Tattoo Designs today!