The methods of preparing temporary body paint are as many and varied as the reasons for painting one's body. Henna has decorated human body with the resulting paint for thousands of years. Traditional designs are often the basis for contemporary designs, both with regard to full body painting or just in specific areas such as hand and soles. It can emphasize visual appeal, express allegiance or provide a protective and empowering coating.

Henna is temporary and painless, as well as being very beautiful, and easy to use. The dried leaves of the henna plant are ground into a fine powder. Black henna is used for the soles of the feet and the palms of the hands, red for the toes and fingers. The paste is allowed to sit for a few hours. Using sticks, paintbrushes, or piping bags of various dimensions, the paste is applied to the skin. Over the following 8 to 10 hours the design will darken and set. It will remain on the skin for three to four weeks.

Mehndi, or henna body decoration, is an ancient art practiced traditionally in North Africa, India and Haiti. Thanks to pop stars and a growing awareness of other cultures, henna is becoming popular amongst youngsters as a form of decoration. Henna designs add beauty and decoration to the parts of the body that are in view, namely hand and feet, but patterns usually extend towards the elbows and knees, causing erotic curiosity for the concealed parts. Designs vary with each culture, and even within cultures.