In recent years there has been a great influx of inspiration from Asian and Indian cultures. Take for example the henna tattoo that was used throughout time. Many people are finding themselves wanting a tattoo but do not want the permanency associated with the ink. Some find themselves unwilling to subject themselves to the needles of tattoo machines. Henna tattooing is the perfect substitution and is nothing like the “lick and stick” tattoo art found in vending machines.

The Henna tattoo art is one of complex lines and symbols that are traditionally associated with Indian weddings in the Far East but have roots that go back much farther. Some historians attribute the first henna tattoo to literature detailing the battle between Baal and Anath as far back as the Bronze Age.

One of the benefits of Henna is that it is a natural product. As such there is a great leeway for experimentation in design. Traditional designs do not have to be used and there are many kits available that include design patterns. The henna tattoo removal is simply the skin replenishing the cells and forcing the dye out of the body. There are tattoo studios that do offer permanent designs that resemble the henna tattoo. These tattoos are put into place with the typical tattoo machines but use a red dye that will remain permanent.

A note of caution concerning henna is the use of a product labeled as “black henna” or an indigo. Natural henna does not come in dark shades. The dark colors are actually made by combining henna with a chemical. There can be very harsh side effects such as skin blistering. As with any product, even a natural one such as henna, there can be allergic reactions. This is particularly true if the individual has a rare genetic condition called a G6PD deficiency. In large doses the dye molecule in henna can be fatal. If it is unknown whether or not henna will cause an allergic reaction it is best to do a small skin test.

The henna tattoo has a long and rich history. It tells stories about past struggles in history as well as marking important events in a person’s life. The influence of the tattoo has permeated culture and with henna the designs can be continuously changed and redesigned. There is no worry of a permanent picture that later may have to be laser removed.

If you want to learn more go here: Tattoo Gallery as well as Lower Back Tattoo and at Tattoo Guns