Arabic bel Mehndi design

Arabic Culture

How to make Arabic Bel Mehndi design last longer

If you’ve ever tried Mehndi, especially the beautiful Arabic Bel Mehndi design, you’ll know that thrill of seeing the delicate patterns bloom on your skin. But one thing I always want to know is: how do I keep the Mehndi color vibrant and long-lasting? After several tries, I’ve learned a few handy tricks, and I want to share them with you. These are all personal tips from my own experience to help your Mehndi stay fresh and beautiful for as long as possible.

Prep Your Skin Properly Before Applying Mehndi

One thing I’ve realized is that prepping your skin before applying Mehndi is crucial. Before I start, I always wash my hands or the area where Mehndi will be applied with soap that’s oil-free. The natural oils on your skin can affect how well the Mehndi absorbs, so it’s important to have clean skin.

I also avoid using lotions or creams beforehand, as they create a layer on the skin that can prevent the Mehndi from fully soaking in. So, the first tip is to make sure your skin is clean and dry before you begin!

Keep the Mehndi Paste on as Long as Possible

Once the Mehndi is applied, patience is key. I usually try to keep the Mehndi paste on my skin for at least 6-8 hours, sometimes even overnight if possible. As the Mehndi dries, it will form a crumbly, flaky layer. However, don’t rush to remove it right away! The longer you leave the dried paste on, the deeper and richer the color will become.

I’ve seen some people try to speed up the drying process by using a blow dryer, but this is actually not a good idea because the heat can dry out your skin and cause the Mehndi to fade faster. Let it dry naturally for the best results!

Apply Lemon and Sugar for a Richer Color

This is probably one of the best tips I picked up from my Indian friends. Once the Mehndi has started to dry but still has the flaky paste layer on top, I prepare a mixture of lemon juice and sugar and gently dab it onto the Mehndi. The lemon helps to acidify the Mehndi, making the color darker, while the sugar helps the paste stick to the skin longer, preventing it from flaking off too soon.

When applying the mixture, just use a cotton ball and lightly dab it over the Mehndi. You don’t need to overdo it! A thin layer will help lock in the color and keep it vibrant.

Avoid Water for 24 Hours After Removing the Paste

Once the Mehndi paste is ready to come off (I usually just use my fingers or a small spoon to scrape the dried bits off), it’s crucial to avoid washing your hands or the area immediately. To allow the color to set deeply, I try to stay away from water for at least 24 hours. It’s tough, but it really makes a difference!

I usually apply Mehndi in the evening and let it dry overnight. In the morning, I scrape off the dried paste but avoid washing the area until later that night. If you need to, you can wear gloves while doing housework or use wet wipes to clean gently without washing your hands.

Use Coconut Oil or Olive Oil to Seal the Color

Another tip I love is applying oil after removing the dried Mehndi paste. Coconut oil or olive oil works wonders to moisturize and lock in the color. After the Mehndi has fully dried, I gently massage a little oil onto the area. The oil helps protect the color from fading too quickly and also keeps your skin soft and hydrated.

You can also use other oils like almond oil or argan oil, but I prefer coconut oil for its pleasant scent and nourishing properties.

Avoid Harsh Soaps and Chemicals

Lastly, to keep the Mehndi vibrant, I avoid using harsh soaps and cleansers on the area where the Mehndi was applied. When I shower or wash my hands, I stick to gentle, natural products, and always reapply some oil after washing to maintain the color.

If I need to deal with water or strong cleaning products, I make sure to wear gloves to protect the Mehndi from fading too quickly. Mehndi typically reaches its darkest color 24-48 hours after application, and from there, it just needs simple care to stay beautiful for 1-2 weeks.

These are the best tips I’ve tried and found truly effective. With these tricks, I hope you’ll have a great Arabic Bel Mehndi experience and keep your designs looking fresh and beautiful for as long as possible! Have you tried any of these methods? If you have any other great tips, feel free to share them with me too!

If you’d like to explore more about Mehndi design 2021 front hand or Small mehndi designs for back hand, feel free to check out my earlier posts. Thanks for joining me on this colorful Mehndi journey!