Henna Tattoo Dangers

Henna tattoos are popular alternatives to permanent tattoos in the United States, Canada and other countries. Unlike permanent tattoos, henna tattoos fade in about three to six weeks. Henna is a paste made from the crushed leaves of the henna plant, so it is thought to be a natural substance. However, other substances may be added to henna to achieve darker colors, such as blue and black, which are not possible with pure henna. These chemicals may pose health risks, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Consult your physician before getting a henna tattoo.

Allergic Reactions

According to the Health Canada website, pure henna is generally considered safe for use on the skin. However, "black henna," which typically contains a tar compound called paraphenylenediamine, or PPD, is not considered safe. PPD can cause an allergic reaction that can produce red skin rashes at the site of the henna tattoo. These rashes typically occur between two and 10 days after the application of the tattoo. Other allergic reactions include itching, blistering and scarring.

Sensitivities

The use of black henna and other modified hennas may cause several skin sensitivities, according to the Health Canada website. Most commonly, people who get henna tattoos experience long-term sensitivity to dyes, particularly those used in hair dyes and the manufacture of clothing. Sensitivities to sunblocks and sunscreens are also common.

Other Dangers

According to Ayesha Al-Suwaidi, lead author of an article on PPD in the "International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health," the inclusion of PPD in black henna may also cause other health effects. Common effects of exposure to PPD include eye irritation, asthma and gastritis, or inflammation of the stomach lining. PPD may also cause more serious effects, including tremors, convulsions, renal failure and coma.