Henna
From Burnwiki, a Burning Man Wiki & Brain Dump
Henna is a popular form of body art, especially in the desert heat! It has been used historically for cultural celebrations in many areas of the world, but it also can help cool the skin in hot, dry climates. No wonder it is so popular at Burning Man!
NEVER USE "BLACK" HENNA, or any henna that says it will leave a color other than natural reddish/brown. Black Henna Warning! The chemical Para-phenylenediamine (PPD) which makes it black can cause a serious allergic reaction, resulting in blisters, sores, scars, sensitivity to PPD (found in regular hair dye and some black clothing), even hospitalization.
You can get henna pre-mixed, but the quality is not that great, especially when stored in high temperatures. Plus there are chemical ingredients added to try to give it some shelf life, which could be irritating to those with sensitive skin.
For high quality, safe henna, try mixing it yourself! The Henna Page has all the instructions/supplies you need and links to other suppliers as well. Another resource for information and suppliers is the henna tribe. In temperatures near 100 degrees, you'll just need to mix the henna with water (distilled preferably) and a small amount of lemon juice, sugar (to help it stick to the skin), and if you'd like, some essential oils - certain ones help with the color of the henna stain, and smell lovely! Cajeput and lavender are popular choices. Let it sit in the sun for 20-30 minutes and you'll be ready! Get some small bottles (resources on the henna page) or cake decorating cones and make a SMALL hole in the tip. (Many suppliers sell convenient beginner kits with everything you need in one spot! Store henna powder or paste in a cooler or freezer until you are ready to use it for best results.)
Henna paste should be left on for a few hours, or until it falls off, and will leave an orange/brown stain that will darken over the day. It should last 1-4 weeks, but be warned -- if you tan/burn with a henna pattern, when the henna fades you'll have a reverse image because the skin under the pattern won't tan!
For an extra special treat to cool yourself off, consider putting henna on the soles of your feet. It really will cool your body down! (You can just leave it on for half an hour, or as long as you can stay off your feet.)
(Disclaimer - I am NOT a henna supplier. I am a henna artist, previously vending at festivals and parties, although I haven't lately. I have no affiliation with the Henna Page or any of their suppliers, I just want to share RELIABLE, SAFE resources and warn about the dangers of "black" henna. If you have any questions, please ask the members of the discussion forum at The Henna Page. Thanks ;o)
