Frequently Asked Questions

What is henna?

Henna, also known as Mendhi, is a reddish-brown dye made from the powdered leaves of a tropical shrub. It’s used to colour the hair and decorate the body. Henna is the oldest known cosmetic in the world and is completely natural.

Where does it come from?

The henna plant, Lawsonia Inermis, is grown in many areas of the world, particularly in warm, dry zones of India, Pakistan, Yemen, Morocco, Egypt, Iran and Sudan.

Is henna dangerous?

Natural henna is not dangerous. Henna Temple uses only certified organic henna mixed with lemon juice and natural essential oils to create our paste.

I’ve heard about ‘black henna’? What’s that?

Black henna isn’t really henna. It’s a mix of toxic dyes that can cause blistering and allergies. Henna Temple does not use black henna. We do however use Jagua (juice of a tropical fruit) mixed with Henna to create a dark coloured henna.

How do you create a henna tattoo?

We mix finely ground henna powder with lemon juice and essential oils to make a smooth paste. We then apply the paste to the skin using a henna cone or bottle with a fine nib. The paste stays on the skin for 3 hours or more and when removed, leaves an orange stain that gradually darkens to a red-brown colour over two days. The tattoo will gradually fade as your skin exfoliates.

How long does it last?

For most people, a henna tattoo lasts for 1–2 weeks, but it can last for up to a month.

What colour will my tattoo be?

Your henna tattoo will be an orange/brown/dark brown colour. The longer you leave the paste on the skin the darker your henna tattoo will end up.

Do you do coloured henna?

Be wary of anyone that tries to sell you a coloured henna tattoo. The added dyes can burn your skin. Always ask for natural henna. At Henna Temple, we use and supply only certified organic henna, which is 100% natural.

Does it hurt to have a henna tattoo?

Not at all. In fact many people say that having the paste applied has a calming, cooling effect.

What will it cost?

Private bookings and parties start at $100 for the first hour and $75 per hour afterwards. One hour can be divided between up to 10 people for a small tattoo each (this is especially good for children’s parties). If you have more than 10 people, it will take more than an hour.

Travel costs apply for bookings located outside of Cairns.

At the Henna Temple stall at the Tanks Market, Palm Cove Market or festivals, you can have a henna tattoo from $10. We have a book of priced designs or we can create an original design for your set price starting from $10. Minimum private studio booking price is $50 (this can be shared between two people). Make an enquiry for your booking.