Derived from a small plant of oriental origin, henna has been used for thousands of years to color hair and skin. Even today, this natural powder is highly prized for temporary tattoos, allowing you to draw sumptuous designs. But when it begins to fade, henna becomes dull and less attractive.
Removing it is then no easy task. But don’t worry: whether you are looking to tone down a color that is too bright, eliminate an accidental stain, or simply make this dye disappear, we have a range of effective methods to offer you. Follow the guide!
What products should be avoided when removing henna?
Don’t touch bleach! “We tend to believe that this liquid is miraculous for everything and anything, but sometimes its use can be harmful,” warns Dr. Noël Shartz, dermatologist. In this case, if you use it to remove your henna tattoo, it can cause severe irritation or even discoloration of the skin. Skin whitening products should also be banned. It is important to remember that skin whitening can cause various side effects, such as dermatitis, steroids, acne, and even mercury poisoning.
Toothpaste, on the other hand, is also a bleaching agent that can potentially remove henna. “However, its use is not recommended in this specific case, because it risks irritating and drying out the skin,” notes Dr. Shartz, continuing, “Moreover, no dermatologist will recommend using toothpaste on the skin, whether to remove henna or to treat pimples.”
Now discover home remedies to remove this dye without damaging your skin or hair fiber.
How to remove henna dye from hair?
Has your flamboyant hair color faded over time and turned a dull red? No need to resort to chemicals to save the day. With this homemade solution, you can easily remove the pigments from the henna and regain your radiant hair.
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Here are the required elements:
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Argan oil
- Coconut oil
- Shampoo with sulfates
- Plastic shower cap
Step-by-step guide:
- This remedy should be applied in the evening. Mix olive oil, argan oil, and coconut oil thoroughly in equal parts.
- Then, gently apply this mixture of oils to your hair, from the roots to the ends. Keep some for possible later touch-ups.
- Once you have spread the remedy well all over your hair, it is time to cover your head with the plastic shower cap. If it is a little too loose, do not hesitate to secure it with a scarf to avoid dirtying your pillowcase. Go to bed and let it act quietly all night.
- The next morning, remove the oil treatment by washing your hair thoroughly with a generous layer of sulfate-free shampoo. Be sure to massage your scalp well.
- Finally, rinse thoroughly and carry out your usual treatment.
For info
This method is effective for removing henna, but it may take several applications before your natural color fully returns.
Tips to remove henna from skin
Now discover a wide range of methods to remove henna from your skin.
01: Wash with antibacterial soap
It may seem unlikely at first glance, but don’t underestimate this solution! A simple soapy water solution can lighten the henna-covered area. “However, you’ll only get good results with antibacterial soap, as it usually contains a higher alcohol content that helps break down the dye molecules more easily,” recommends Dr. Shartz. The only downside is that this method, while effective, can eventually dry out your skin, so be sure to moisturize the area after each wash.
Instructions for use:
- Choose an antibacterial soap with a high alcohol content.
- Under the sink, with soap and water, carefully wash the part of the skin tattooed with henna.
- Then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and dry.
- Don’t forget to apply your moisturizer immediately afterward to prevent the skin from drying out.
02: Saltwater
This other “unexpected” method is just as promising. It involves removing henna with a saltwater bath. It turns out that salt can both gently dissolve henna and lightly exfoliate the skin. It’s even a trick that works wonders on small areas like fingers or hands.
Here’ssaltwaterhow to do it:
- Take a bowl and fill it with warm water. Add a good amount of table salt to it and mix well.
- Then, soak the tattooed area in this salt water for 20 to 30 minutes.
- After this time, gently dry the skin using a clean towel.
- Feel free to repeat this treatment several times if necessary to fade the color.
03: Chemical exfoliant
This type of exfoliant can also help remove henna. Especially products that contain glycolic acids or jojoba beads. They provide gentle exfoliation while moisturizing the skin.
Use:
- We recommend choosing a chemical exfoliant rich in glycolic acid (or alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids).
- Apply a small amount to the henna tattoo.
- Use a gentle massage to exfoliate your skin without irritating it.
- After a few minutes, rinse thoroughly, dry, and moisturize the skin. Repeat the process if necessary.
04: Apply the olive oil and salt combo
This homemade method has also proven itself. It consists of a mixture of olive oil and sea salt. You will obtain a natural scrub, ideal for skin exfoliation without risks.
Here’s how to do it:
- Mix the sea salt and olive oil to form a thick, smooth paste.
- Once obtained, apply it carefully to the tattooed area, previously moistened.
- Take a few minutes to give yourself a gentle massage.
- Then, let the remedy work for another 5 minutes, before removing it with a clean, damp towel.
05: Use baking soda
You love using it for various household tasks! Learn that here again, baking soda can be useful for removing henna from the skin. Indeed, it will act as a mild abrasive, helping you to eliminate the pigment stains.
Instructions for use:
- To create a thick paste, as you usually do, simply mix baking soda (50 g) with water (20 ml).
- Then, you will just have to spread this paste directly on your henna tattoo.
- Leave to act for a few minutes, before gently rubbing the area with a damp cloth.
- Finally, rinse with lukewarm water.
06: Shave the henna tattooed area
You may not have considered it, but if you have a henna tattoo on your arm or leg, simply shaving it off is a great option. Plus, this method can also help lighten the area and exfoliate the skin.
How to use:
- Start by spreading your shaving cream on the tattooed area.
- Use a clean razor to shave.
- And finally, make sure to moisturize your skin well to limit possible irritation.
07: Exfoliating scrub
To remove henna, exfoliation is still a good option. So explore the use of mechanical scrubs, such as those based on salt or sugar. They are effective, especially for less delicate areas.
Instructions:
Get an exfoliating scrub made with salt or sugar.
Apply it generously to the tattooed area.
Rub gently by hand using circular motions.
Then, proceed to rinse with lukewarm water. Dry thoroughly and apply your moisturizer.
08: Use witch hazel
For a more natural approach, witch hazel is known to fade and even remove henna. You can easily find it at herbalists or online.
Follow these steps:
- If you have a solution made from this plant, you will only need to soak a cotton pad. Otherwise, a stick of witch hazel will also do the trick.
- Apply directly to the tattooed area.
- Leave to penetrate for a few minutes, then remove with a dry cloth.
- Repeat several times a day to achieve the desired result. Don’t skip the skin hydration phase!
09: Apply hydrogen peroxide
This product acts as a gentle exfoliating agent that weakens the bond between skin cells, making it easier to remove embedded henna dye.
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Here’s how to do it:
- Take a cotton pad and soak it in hydrogen peroxide.
- Then, make sure to gently pass it over the affected area.
- Repeat this several times a day, until the color fades significantly.
- While there is no “magic” method to completely and immediately remove henna from your skin, this approach can speed up the fading process without damaging your skin.
10: Use a makeup remover
It sounds unlikely, but a silicone-based makeup remover can be an effective solution for removing henna tattoos.
Follow these steps:
- All you need to do is soak a cotton pad or even a cotton swab in a little silicone-based makeup remover.
- Then, gently dab the tattooed area and let the product penetrate deeply.
- After a few minutes, remove it with a dry cloth.
- Repeat several times a day, until the henna disappears.
11: Apply micellar water to your skin
Micellar water is one of the gentlest facial cleansers out there. Well, it turns out it can also work to remove henna stains. It helps make the dye easier to remove while protecting your skin.
Instructions for use:
- Simply soak a cotton cloth with micellar water.
- Gently rub the henna tattoo for effective results.
- Repeat as needed, especially if you have sensitive skin.
12: The coconut oil and powdered sugar duo
Here’s a powerful exfoliating remedy made with melted coconut oil and raw sugar. This homemade method is also great for gently exfoliating while hydrating the skin.
How to do it?
- First, rub melted coconut oil on your henna tattoo.
- Let this oil penetrate the skin deeply.
- Then add the raw sugar to the oil.
- Now use a washcloth to scrub the area thoroughly to remove this mixture.
13: Use vodka
Yes, you read that right, it may sound unusual, but this technique can also work. If you have some vodka left, try it to get rid of the henna.
Here’s how to do it:
- Take a clean sponge and soak it in a little vodka.
- Apply it to the area to be treated.
- Leave on for 15 minutes (if your skin is too sensitive and starts to sting, remove immediately to avoid any allergies!).
- Then rinse twice with a pH-balancing shampoo and conditioner.
14: Apply conditioner
True, conditioner is specifically designed to moisturize your hair, but it turns out this versatile product can also help remove henna. Why not give it a try?
Follow these steps:
- You just have to apply the conditioner to the tattooed area.
- Let it absorb the dye for a few minutes.
- Then rinse with lukewarm water and repeat if necessary.
15: Hot milk
Did you know that warm milk is also a promising solution for removing henna from fabrics and skin? This simple method can be a lifesaver when you have stained your clothes, for example.
Use:
- First, heat some milk in a saucepan or the microwave (but don’t let it boil!).
- Then, soak a sponge or cloth in this hot liquid.
- Then apply directly to the tattooed area (or stained part) and leave on for about 30 minutes.
- Finally, wipe gently and rinse with lukewarm water to avoid any unpleasant odors.
16: Bet on swimming
You might not have thought of it, but quite simply, the chlorinated water of a swimming pool can be an unsuspected ally in trying to remove henna from your skin. All you need to do is go to a public pool and swim for 40 minutes. This should be enough to remove traces of this dye. ” Combining business with pleasure ” has never been easier: take advantage of the pool to remove henna while taking care of your shape!
How long does henna last on skin?
“Typically, henna tattoos can last up to two weeks,” notes Dr. Shartz. That’s why this natural alternative to traditional tattoos is so popular among temporary tattoo enthusiasts. It gradually begins to fade as skin cells renew themselves. However, the main lines of the design usually remain visible for at least two weeks after application. Of course, some henna tattoos last longer, depending on aftercare, skin condition, and the quality of the dye. But overall, most users find that the design on the skin gradually fades after two weeks.
FAQ
Does showering help remove henna?
Repeated washing indeed accelerates the exfoliation of the skin and the fading of the tattoo. But, don’t expect the henna to magically disappear after just one shower!
How to remove a black henna tattoo?
To remove some of the pigment, warm water and a mild soap can make things easier. How to do it? Apply the soap directly to the tattooed area and rub gently with your hand (or with a soft sponge). Then, rinse thoroughly with warm water. Repeat this treatment several times a day to try to remove the black henna. And above all, don’t forget to apply a moisturizer after each cleaning to protect your skin from drying out.