Make sure you dry your skin before applying the tattoo.

Exfoliate using a loofah or pumice stone and avoid techniques that will leave your skin oily, like salt or sugar rubs. [2] X Research source

The exception is with a henna tattoo, which actually works best on your hands and feet, because the skin is thicker. The more layers of skin, the more layers the ink can stain. [3] X Research source Avoid areas that quickly become sweaty or oily naturally, like your temples, or your feet when you wear socks and shoes. Avoid areas that will rub against your clothes. [4] X Research source

If you are applying to an area you shave regularly, like your legs or neck, the act of shaving may remove your tattoo faster. Shaving before application may allow you to go longer without shaving once the tattoo is applied. [5] X Research source Make sure you use a new, sharp razor if you are going to shave over your tattoo. A dull or nicked razor can cause your tattoo to flake. [6] X Research source

It’s ok to swim or shower with a waterproof temporary tattoo, just try not to soak it in a bath or allow it to come into contact with soap, body wash, or oils.

Clear nail polish will have the same sealing effect as the petroleum jelly, but it won’t be as messy, since it will dry on your skin. There is a downside to clear nail polish as it will start to flake and the tattoo will come with it.

Be careful not to inhale these powders, as they can be harmful to your lungs.

Trace over the tattoo design with a marker of the same color and fill in with ink. It won’t last longer than a day or two at most.

The henna will continue to work up to 12 hours after application if you keep it wet. [10] X Research source Don’t oversaturate the paste with spray–you don’t want it so wet that the paste begins to slide or spread on your skin, blurring your design. [11] X Research source Make your own spray by dissolving 1 1/2 tsp sugar in 3 tsp lemon juice. Gently heat the mixture in a sauce pan if the sugar doesn’t dissolve after about a minute of stirring.

Keep the area warm, but not hot–sweating too much might cause the paste to smudge. [13] X Research source

Some black hennas may not have any actual henna in them at all and consist only of the harsh PPD.

When you remove the henna, scrape if off the skin without using water. Apply oil on the skin after the henna is scraped off.