Mehendi is gorgeous after it’s applied, but how does it look after you want it off again? If your mehendi looks blotchy because it has faded with time, or if you want to remove it before an important event, knowing how to remove mehendi from hand safely is essential. The good news? There are lots of recipes that don’t require you to go out and purchase anything special.
The difference between a permanent tattoo and mehendi is that the latter fades away in a few weeks, depending on skin type and water exposure. However, if you want quicker results, then these tried and tested tips will come in handy.
Best Methods to Remove Mehendi From Hand
Natural & Gentle Solutions
Olive Oil Massage
This is one of the most gentle methods of hand removal of mehendi. Massage the stained areas with olive oil for 10 minutes. This can be done multiple times during the day. Henna stains can be emulsified with olive oil without any harm to the skin. For an extra boost, add a little bit of salt to the oil.
Lemon Juice
Lemon is a natural bleaching agent. Just put fresh lemon juice and rub it directly on the mehendi stains or put hands in lemon water. Apply this procedure 1-2 times a day. Please note: Do not use if cuts or nicks are present on hands due to the acidity.
Salt Water Soak
Mix sea salt (or table salt) with water and soak your hands for 20 minutes daily. Salt is a strong solvent which helps the colour to bleed out in water, and slowly makes the stain fade. Follow up with a good moisturizer to prevent excessive dryness.
Quick & Effective Methods
Toothpaste Pack
Brush plenty of toothpaste on the mehendi stained areas and allow to dry thoroughly. Gently rub your hands to remove colour. This method is very effective and will often work the first time. Abrasives and detergents in toothpaste can effectively remove stains.
Baking Soda & Lemon Paste
Add baking soda to lemon juice to form a thick paste. Spread on stained areas and allow to dry for 10 mins. Gently use a loofah to exfoliate in a circular motion and rinse off with warm water. Both of the ingredients are bleaching substances which act together to eliminate mehendi particles.
Warm Water & Loofah
Warm the hands with warm water (not hot) for 15-20 minutes and then massage with a loofah. This helps to dissipate the henna particles making them easier to wash away. Repeat daily for optimal results.
Fast Chemical Solutions
Bleach
Facial and hand bleach will remove stubborn stains. Prepare like instructions, apply to mehendi, then rinse it off with cool water after it is dry. Results should be seen after 1 application. This is the case, always try a patch test first and moisturise well afterwards.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Apply cotton ball to hands, gently rubbing with hydrogen peroxide. This bleaching solution will give immediate results. Apply only once a day and test on a small area first because results may differ depending on the skin type.
Things to Avoid
- Do not scrub excessively, this will lead to redness and irritation.
- Try not to use extremely hot water as it will open the pores and worsen the stain.
- Do not pick or peel on the mehendi
- Avoid the excessive and prolonged use of harsh chemicals.
- Do not moisturize prior to use of bleach products
- Avoid direct sunlight, after skins have been treated.
Final Word
Removing mehendi from hands is no complicated matter. If you’re not in a rush, use gentle techniques such as olive oil or lemon juice. Try toothpaste, baking soda paste or bleach for quick results. Always handwash with lots of moisturizer after removing to keep hands from getting dry. In no time, you will have fresh, clean hands, whether you opt for natural or chemical products.
FAQs
1. What is the duration of natural fading of mehendi?
Mehendi will usually fade away on its own in 1-3 weeks depending upon skin type and how often the area is washed or buffed.
2. How to get rid of mehendi quickly?
The most rapid results will be obtained using bleach, hydrogen peroxide and chlorine water, with the fading being noticeable after one application.
3. Is it safe to use bleach on hands?
Yes, but only use bleach made for the face or hands, make sure to do a patch test before applying, and remember to moisturize after bleaching as it can be moisturizing.
4. Can hand sanitizer remove mehendi?
Yes, hand sanitizers are able to remove mehendi stains. Apply on to the your clothes liberally, allow to rest for a short time, then gently rub with a cotton ball and warm water.
5.Which of the following is the most suitable method for sensitive skin?
The gentlest treatments for sensitive skin are olive oil, lemon juice and salt water soaks which will not irritate.
