This is the second part of my interview with Taryn Goodwin, Oklahoma City doula and henna artist:
-Now, a more technical question: How do you prepare the henna paste?
"Well, first of all, I order henna powder from a certified organic providers. That is important for 2 reasons: One, henna powder stays fresh longer that pre-mixed henna paste. Second, using a certified organic source assures me that I am not applying something that could be potentially toxic to mom or baby. When I am preparing to do art on a client, I will mix up the paste with lavender essential oil, and lemon juice. I then set it in the sun and allow it to sit overnight."
"Once the paste changes color, I know it is ready to apply. I make sure that my client is comfortable, since application can take anywhere from 1-3 hours, depending on the design and where I am applying it. Then I used rubbing alchohol to remove any body oils or lotion from the area I am going to decorate (this helps make the henna design last longer). Using a light-colored non-toxic marker, I draw the design. I love to do free-hand designs and allow myself to be inspired by the spirit of the mom, but I most certainly will incorporate what she wants the design to include, such as the baby's name or flowers, etc. I then apply the henna with a small metal tip, similar to the tip of a ball point pen, that is attached to a bottle with the paste in it."
"It's important to note that, although they are often called "henna tattoos", henna art is applied only to the TOP of the skin...there are no needle involved! After I have finished the design, I will wrap the area in a medical-grade or henna tape. The tape has to stay on overnight for the design to really set."
-That brings up another question. How long do the designs last?
"They usually last a minimum of 7-10 days, but they can last up to 3 weeks. It really depends on the individual body chemistry of the person, how long the paste was left on the skin and which body part it is applied to."
-And of course, henna is safe to apply during pregnancy?
"For the most part, yes. However, if a woman is anemic or if she or her baby has been diagnosed with G6PD deficiency, which is a very rare condition, she should not have henna art done. Also, consumer should be sure they know WHAT KIND of henna is being used. Most henna is safe, however "black" henna is not recommended, due to some of the questionable ingredients. That is part of the reason I make it a point to order my henna from a certified organic source!"
-Last but not least, what is your favorite henna design to date?
"Well, I am not sure I have a "favorite design"...each session is different and I get inspired once I meet the mom. However, I have to say that my favorite session so far was when I did my sister's belly. It was really awesome to share that moment with her and to give that unique gift to her!"
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