Henna drawings on the body are a peculiar style of painting that is widespread today almost all over the world. Masters dealing with henna tattoos on the body can be confidently called painters, the images they put on look so masterly.
Henna mehendi drawings - what is it, history of origin
An image applied with henna to the body is called mehendi (mehndi). Another name for art is biotatu, as it uses natural ingredients. Henna mehendi tattoo is a temporary pattern, it disappears after the gradual replacement of the old layer of skin with a new one.
Scientists attribute the origin of the art of mehendi to ancient Egypt. More than 5000 years ago The Egyptians used the leaves of the cinchona tree as a dye. Representatives of the upper strata of society adorned the hands and feet with henna, believing that this would help to easily pass into the afterlife after death.
In Eastern and Asian countries, tattoos are applied as decoration. Bedouins immerse their hands and feet in henna paste and use it as a remedy.
The greatest recognition was won by Indian drawings, saturated with natural ornaments, bizarre patterns applied only to hands and feet. According to the tradition of the Indian wedding ceremony, the day before the wedding, the bride's hands are painted with bizarre patterns.
Mehendi styles
There are 4 main styles of mehendi tattooing, each of which has an individual characteristic:
- henna drawings in Arabic (Middle Eastern) style;
- African or Moroccan direction;
- Indian drawings;
- asian ornament.
In the drawings of the Arabian style, floral motives prevail, reflecting oriental embroidery and painting. Drawings of birds of paradise are often found.
Floral motives
African (Moroccan) ornament involves geometric shapes in combination with images of flowers applied to the addition of legs and arms.
Geometric figures
In the Indian direction, the ornament is drawn not only on the hands and feet. By drawing from the brushes towards the elbows, they create a semblance of gloves. The patterns are very different - a water drop, openwork snowflakes, Indian cucumber, images of geometric shapes may be present.
Glove ornament
The Asian style embodies a mixture of Middle Eastern, Pakistani designs.One ornament can be combined with another in one tattoo image.
Painted fingertips
Dyed fingertips are a feature of Asian mehendi.
White henna drawings - white mehendi
White mehendi (mehndi) gives tenderness, sensuality to the image. It looks a lot like thin white lace. A white tattoo in combination with a wedding dress looks especially beautiful, which has become fashionable.
Women prefer to paint with white henna on hot days.when wearing jewelry is not very comfortable, and the applied patterns look like jewelry. White drawings are relevant on the eve of special events, holidays. Unlike black henna, white mehendi lasts 2-3 days.
The white substance used for the drawing is absolutely free of henna. The similarity with mehendi lies in the application of almost the same patterns. White henna is a mixture of special glue and acrylic paint.
The combined substance is irritating to the skin. People who are prone to allergies are not advised to tattoo with white ink.
Black henna tattoo
Dried lavsonia leaves are used to create a dye. A yellow-green powder with a slight odor, obtained after processing the plant, is used as a tattoo ink.
To create a mixture, the powder is mixed with water with the addition of several ingredients:
- sugar;
- lemon juice;
- various essential oils.
The resulting mass has a small minus: when applied to the skin, it takes brownish shades instead of black.
The chemical paraphenyldiamine is added to the paint to produce a charcoal black color. Many people tolerate the black henna tattoo procedure without consequences. But for some, the coloring matter causes inflammation of the skin or severe allergies.
Having decided to get a tattoo with black henna, first of all, you need to make sure that there are certificates for the dye you are buying. It is recommended to buy Indian henna.
To avoid the above problems, you must adhere to some rules. Before starting the procedure, you need to cleanse the skin with a mild soap. Then, after thoroughly drying, proceed to the drawing procedure.
Mehendi - the meaning of symbols and drawings
The application of henna mehendi drawings on the body embodies the incredible interweaving of a variety of shapes. Some of them are symmetrical, repeated in the drawing, others are single. Each ornament has a specific meaning.
Even in ancient times, henna tattoos were done as a wish of love, joy, good luck, health. This tradition is still preserved in many countries of the East and Asia. In Europe, painting with henna mehendi (mehndi) is decorative, although many Europeans pay attention to the meanings of the symbols.
Dreamcatcher
According to legend, the history of the symbol dates back to the North American Indians. According to legend, the leader of an Indian tribe received a talisman in the form of a web of willow branches from a spider deity. The dreamcatcher lured devils into the net, they disappeared by sunrise, and the sleeper remained calm dreams.
The Indians created talismans by decorating them with feathers and beads. Eagle feathers were intended for men, and owl feathers for women. Through them, power and prudence were transmitted to a person. The circle meant the cycle of life before aging relative to the movement of the star.
Lotus
The symbol is of oriental origin. The Lotus combines purity and fertility, spiritual enrichment, immortality, life and death, peace and eternal struggle.
In Egyptian culture, the lotus meant eternity, intelligence. In India, the flower symbolizes fertility, the feminine principle. The lotus henna design embodies lofty ideals and moral stability.
Flowers
Each flower in mehendi henna drawings has a meaning. Tattoo lovers are advised to first familiarize themselves with the meanings of the symbols, then apply the drawing.
Legend:
- Devotion, love personifies the carnation.
- The Chinese consider aster a symbol of humility and restraint, the Greeks - a sign of love.
- Jasmine is recognized as a flower that symbolizes happiness.
- Cornflower is suitable for people with a refined character and gallant manners.
- Wayward and self-sufficient people can proudly get a hydrangea or daffodil tattoo. Narcissus also means death in youth.
- Many women prefer a sunflower - a flower that symbolizes indisputable beauty and happiness.
- The red rose personifies passionate love, yellow - dignity, infallibility, white - chastity.
Pen
Feather tattoo is often found in women. The feather symbol expresses lightness, grace, airiness, grace. The Indians characterize it as a sign of courage, determination, and immortality.
The feather of each individual bird has a specific meaning:
- a peacock feather indicates a high-ranking position of the face;
- the phoenix feather symbolizes immortality, resurrection;
- an owl feather protects against evil spirits, witchcraft, also personifies wisdom;
- the feather of the firebird indicates the talent and beauty of the soul and body;
- the eagle feather is often applied to take on the qualities of a courageous bird.
Butterfly
Butterfly tattoo has several meanings. Each nation characterizes the meaning of this symbol in its own way.
Mexicans consider the butterfly to be the personification of the immortal human soul.
Since ancient times in Japan, the symbol has been displaying beauty, femininity, grace.
Buddhists are respectful of the sign. According to legend, the Great Buddha directed his sermon to the butterfly.
In Christianity, this symbol means resurrection, immortality.
The butterfly drawing is more suitable for the female half of humanity. She embodies feminine beauty.
The Dragon
In ancient times, the Greeks wore the image of a dragon on their shields to intimidate the enemy. In the west, it is considered a symbol of evil spirits. In the east, the dragon is characterized by positive qualities.
Many people get tattooed at their birth in the year of the dragon. In men, the dragon sign symbolizes disobedience, power, obstinacy. Drawing a picture of a dragon, everyone puts his own meaning, known only to himself.
Elephant
The elephant as a positive image was glorified by the Greeks and Romans in ancient times. Mehendi henna elephant tattoo embodies perfection, power, wisdom, fertility. The elephant symbol brings good luck to those who carry it.
In Asia, India, it is customary to get an elephant tattoo for brides before the weddingso that their life is full of luck, abundance and love. The image of an elephant is suitable for both men and women. The last symbol serves as protection, gives them more courage. Tattoo artists claim that the elephant on the body of men makes them kinder and nobler.
Mandala
Recently, one of the trendiest bio tattoos is the mandala. She is especially popular among young people. A circle, consisting of the most complex patterns, is very similar to geometric shapes interconnected. Those wearing mandala tattoos are the owners of a strong amulet.
According to Eastern legends, he is able to change human destiny.
A mandala applied to the body, especially if it is done in a quiet, calm atmosphere, reflects the thoughts and thoughts of the person. People with mandala tattoos easily solve problems, get rid of stressful situations.
Other symbols
The masters who create henna mehendi designs continuously enrich the tattoo themes with various symbols.
Several other common symbols:
- Indian or Turkish cucumber - a symbol of fertility, wealth;
- peacock - symbolizes power, good luck;
- god Ganesh (a mythical character with an elephant's head and a child's body) - protects children, drives away evil spirits;
- triangle — protection from natural disasters.
How long does henna mehendi tattoo last?
Indian brides have a temporary henna mehendi (mehndi) tattoo lasting more than 2 months. But after the wedding, girls are freed from household chores for this very period. They shouldn't wash their hands for a long time either.
In our conditions, henna tattoo has a short life, but 1-2 weeks is enough to get tired of the drawing and replace it with a new ornament.
The duration of the drawing depends on the season (it lasts longer in winter), color, skin type.
In order for the drawing to last for a long time, it is necessary to properly care for the skin. With the henna mehendi pattern applied to the body, it is not recommended to take a bath, swim in the lake, pool, shower, preferably 3-5 minutes, without using scrubs, hard sponges, peels. Special care for the tattoo is also required. By fulfilling these conditions, you can extend the existence of the tattoo up to 2 weeks.
A drawing made with natural henna without additional additives lasts up to 21 days, but the color of the paint (red or brown) gradually fades, the drawing becomes smeared.
Black henna tattoo, containing additional coloring ingredients, lasts less than a week. During this time, the drawing does not have time to change.
Stencils for mehendi
The patterns applied to the body can be simple and do not require drawing skills. Intricate patterns are applied using specially made stencils, through which the pattern is transferred to the body.
Stencils are:
- single use with a slight layer of glue (film). Does not hurt when removed. Attaches well to the body;
- made of silicone. Flexible, easily attached to the surface of the skin, are reusable;
- homemade stencils. Made from material at hand.
Stencils with more than 500 types of ornaments can be purchased in specialized stores.
When choosing, you need to pay attention to the elasticity of the template. This will ensure an even attachment to the skin without the slightest gap. Pattern cuts should be free of burrs so that the borders of patterns are clear when applying paint.
Important! The stencil should be made of environmentally friendly material to avoid skin irritation and inflammation..
Henna for tattoo (mehendi) - which one to buy
For temporary drawings on the body with henna mehendi, it is recommended to use a natural product without additional ingredients. The most suitable purchase is brown-red (classic) henna in cones or tubes.
Henna in cones with a fine tip that allows you to paint without a brush is easy to use. The advantage of cones, tubes is the necessary consistency of a natural product, ready to use.
Mehendi henna companies produce products of various qualities, following consumer demand. Henna-based paint is recommended for simple, quick patterns (with additional ingredients). A complex oriental ornament is best done using natural henna (no additives and no dyes).
How to breed henna for a tattoo
Before preparing the mixture, the henna powder is sieved through a sieve in order to obtain a homogeneous mass for easy passage through the opening of the cone. The mixture must be prepared a day before using it.
Pour 1 tbsp into a glass bowl. l. powder (20 g), 1/4 cup of lemon juice is added, the mixture is brought by stirring until smooth. The consistency should resemble mashed potatoes. The bowl of pasta must be tightly sealed, blocking the air flow.
The bowl is placed in a warm place (20-25 ° C) for 12-15 hours. It is not recommended to dilute henna with plain water. 1 tsp is added immediately before use. Sahara.
You can prepare henna for a mehendi tattoo as follows:
- make a tincture of very strong black tea (2 tsp for 300 g of water), drain;
- little by little add 30 g of powder, stirring slowly;
- add a few drops of essential oil to the resulting mass, 2 tsp. lemon juice;
- after 3-4 hours of infusion, the mixture can be used.
Where can you buy henna for a tattoo - where is it for sale
Henna for tattoos can be purchased in specialized brand stores of product manufacturers, tattoo parlors, online stores.
List of some online stores:
- ethnic shop Gangotri;
- Biomui;
- Gandhari Indian Stuff.
How much does mehendi, henna tattoo cost - price
Mehendi henna tattooing is divided into several categories, respectively, the service price is different.
List of prices for temporary tattoo:
- simple tattoo (light ornament) —700-900 rubles;
- tattoo of medium complexity - 1000 rubles;
- complex drawing - 1200-1400 rubles;
- high complexity tattoo - 1600 rubles;
- wedding mehendi - 1500-2000 rubles;
- home visit of the master - 2500 rubles.
Henna mehendi drawings on hand
It is important to choose the right location for the picture.
Mehendi on the wrist - bracelet
Drawings on the wrist in the form of a bracelet have gained great popularity. The ornament on the most delicate part of the hand looks great as a decoration.
Mehendi in the palm of your hand
In the East, drawings on the palm are considered a sign of peace, harmony in the family. Such a drawing protects from evil. Among modern youth, ornament on the palm is not very common, but oriental women of the age attach special importance to mehendi on the palm.
Mehendi on fingers
The images on the fingers characterize the state of mind, the nature of a person. The tattoo is not striking. The ornament is light, lasts more than 2 weeks. You can make a ring pattern.
Mehendi on nails - manicure
This is news for women of fashion, received with great enthusiasm. Professional craftsmen transferred wonderful mehendi patterns to nails. It looks great. The ornament makes the nails soft and attractive.
Mehendi on forearm, shoulder
On the forearms and shoulders, henna tattoos are usually done in a dark color, which indicates a manifestation of strong love for a partner. The image of an animal or plant protects against diseases.
Henna tattoo on the leg
Mehendi on the leg is gaining more and more popularity. Attractive patterns lend shape to legs, especially if they are naturally beautiful.
Mehendi on the hip (lyashka)
A variety of floral motifs, classic mehendi is a wonderful decoration that gives grace to the hips. The bracelet on the thigh looks beautiful. This pattern is more intended for the chosen person. If desired, the tattoo can be hidden with a long skirt or trousers.
Mehendi on the foot
A person wearing a mehendi tattoo on his right foot is in search of a faithful assistant, a close friend. The drawing speaks of a lack of attention from relatives. The pattern on the left foot means good surroundings, all-round attention, also selfishness.
Mehendi on ankle
On the ankle, the patterns look very attractive. The subtlety of the pattern emphasizes the femininity of the most beautiful part of the leg. Tattoo bracelets that frame the ankle like an openwork belt and a thin waist are also relevant.
Henna drawings on the body
Mehendi is applied not only to hands and feet. Henna drawings are made on other parts of the body.
Mehendi on the back
The back is an ideal place for applying all kinds of patterns and designs. A mehendi tattoo on the back looks romantic. The more daring choose large images on the whole back - a huge lotus or a large sun. Others prefer miniature images.
Mehendi on the neck, collarbone
Drawings on the neck are beautiful and comfortable. Those who love tattoos, but hesitate to appear in society with a painted neck, can hide the drawing from prying eyes with long hair.
A tattoo on the collarbone emphasizes the beauty of the protruding bone above the chest - the pride of many women who have lost weight.
If the ornament is rich in openwork, it looks like an ornament. This gives the neck a special charm.
Mehendi for children
Children are often painted on their hands and feet. Isn't it a mehendi tattoo? Henna drawings for children are bright colored decorations with images of animals, cartoon characters.
Henna mehendi drawings for boys
Boys love to get tattoos with their favorite characters, which are role models for them. Many of the guys prefer animal images. Among the boys, there are many admirers of drawings with sea pirates.
Mehendi for girls
A young beauty needs to show all her charm. Bright, beautiful flowers are just right for such an occasion.
Some girls want to show off their courage and put images of wild animals - lionesses, panthers, snakes.
Mehendi for men - men's henna tattoos
Henna biotata in men is distinguished by a tough, rough ornament. There are drawings with inscriptions in a foreign language, more often in Latin, which gives a kind of mystery.
Some time it was customary to write the name of the beloved woman... Now this is not very welcome. For most men, a tattoo is a smile of luck, wisdom, willpower. Popular ornaments: owl, dagger and sword, peacock, stars, scorpion.
Henna tattoo for beginners - how to draw at home step by step (step by step with photo)
At home, learning how to make henna drawings is not a difficult task if you follow the recommendations and instructions.
First of all, you need to purchase a set for applying a mehendi henna tattoo:
- henna (preferably of Indian production);
- sandalwood or eucalyptus essential oil;
- glass bowl;
- lemon juice (used as a solvent);
- water felt-tip pen (for displaying the picture);
- cone, brush for drawing a pattern.
Before starting painting, you need to carry out preparatory procedures:
- 1-2 days before the start of drawing, it is not recommended to visit the solarium, it is under the sun's rays.
- It is necessary to make a test of the paint, applying it to a small sector of the skin closer to the elbow.
- Immediately before applying the ornament, the part of the body where the drawing will be depicted is cleaned with a scrub, wiped with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol.
After these procedures, the drawing will be uniform.
In order to obtain neat, not smeared patterns, beginners are advised to use a stencil.
After installing the template, you can proceed to painting:
- Paint 2-3 mm thick is applied to the drawing by means of a brush or cone.
- All holes of the template are filled with henna.
- After drying, the film can be carefully removed.
The ornament dries for 2-5 hours (depends on the quality of henna). Until it is completely dry, it is recommended to spray the image with lemon juice mixed with sugar (2 tablespoons of juice, 1 tablespoons of sugar). A completely dried drawing is treated with essential oil. Contact with water is allowed after 5-6 hours.
Small henna drawings
Miniature drawings are preferred by people who do not want to advertise a tattoo. Small biotat makes girls attractive. Miniature images have a lot of meaning.
They also serve cosmetic purposes, hiding small errors on the body: a birthmark, the effects of wounds. A small ornament needs almost no maintenance.
How to care for mehendi
Henna biotata should be protected from moisture. It is necessary for a while to give up visiting pools, saunas, not to linger for a long time in stuffy places. Sweating is especially detrimental to henna tattoos.
Before taking a shower, it is recommended to lubricate the drawing with any essential oil.... It will reduce friction and maintain the brilliance and brightness of the design. From time to time you need to moisten the ornament with special creams designed to care for biotat.
In no case should you use whitening creams.
Their composition is harmful to the drawing. If every day the ornament is treated with protective agents for several minutes, it can be preserved for up to 3-4 weeks.
How to wash mehendi
Fresh paint can be easily wiped off if you immediately wash it off with warm water and soap. Cotton wool or a tampon with vodka or diluted alcohol is also cleaned of henna, but after rinsing, it is necessary to treat the area with a moisturizer to avoid drying out the skin.
Henna drawings applied a few days ago will be difficult to wash off immediately.
It can be cleansed in a few days with sea salt diluted in warm water.
If you need a quick removal, you need to prepare a paste of soda and lemon juice, apply it to the drawing, hold for no more than 10 minutes, then rinse. After the procedure, it is recommended to treat the area with a moisturizer.
The tattoo is also washed off with vegetable oil heated in a steam bath.... With the help of cotton wool, the oil is applied to the drawing, covered with cling film for 30 minutes. After cleaning, apply a nourishing cream.
Currently, henna mehendi tattoo attracts the attention of people of different ages all over the world. This is a great opportunity to try a tattoo for those who do not wish to get a regular permanent tattoo.
Henna mehendi drawings: video
How to get a henna tattoo? Watch in the video clip:
The meaning of henna mehendi drawings in the video: