HENNA

Henna is a small tree whose leaves contain a dye that stains the skin, similar to turmeric. The dye molecule, lawsone, binds to skin keratin, creating a lasting stain. When applied, henna paste dries to a dark color and initially leaves a bright orange stain that oxidizes to dark red-brown in about 48 hours. Unlike permanent tattoos, henna only penetrates the top skin layers, fading as the skin exfoliates.