About the shipping: Shipped the SAME day & arrived in just two! About the cone: At first, I was having trouble getting the paste out but I placed a napkin on the counter and squeezed out with a bit more pressure since it seems to have been stuck inside the cone. I actually tried rolling the cone in between my hands and squishing it gently to soften the paste. Application: I didn't need that much henna. Left it on for two hours and got some nice freckles! I'd recommend changing how much pressure you put on your face when applying the henna in order to get different-sized freckles to make it look more natural! Looks very dark while on, but that nice faded orangey-brown that freckles naturally appear to be! :) Post application: Ironically, after I was done putting the paste on, I couldn't get it stop coming out! It was a small amount at a time and I realized all I needed to do was quickly wipe the tip and push the needle back in. I then placed it back in the plastic baggie it came in, and left it in my freezer! Love it! I'm so glad for this kit's existence!