The leaves of the henna plant have been used for centuries in the Middle East and India to create beautiful intricate temporary body art. Although an ancient custom where girls and women would get painted before ceremonies such as weddings to symbolise their fertility, henna painting is now becoming a fashionable trend . The artwork is found not only on the hands and feet as tradition demonstrates but on the back, stomach and other areas as well. Depending on the skin type and the type of care taken, a body painting can last up to six weeks. An excellent alternative to permanent tattoos, henna painting is also painless.