Used in Islamic and Hindu cultures to color hair and decorate the nails and skin, henna is a natural, plant-derived dye that is generally considered safe. Henna tattoos are non-permanent, and are usually done on the hands. Chemical additives in henna mixtures can cause allergic reactions. In particular, products labeled "black henna" may cause adverse effects. The temporary tattoos labeled as "black henna" are easy to purchase but may cause a severe reaction such as blisters.
Henna
Derived from the leaves of the Lawsonia inermis tree, henna is a natural red-brown dye with the active ingredient lawsone. Most people are not allergic to henna, but it is possible to have an allergic reaction to pure henna. In extremely rare instances, it can cause allergic contact dermatitis, or an itchy rash at the site of contact.
Legality
The United States Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, has approved henna as a hair dye, but it is not approved for direct application to your skin. Henna skin products are illegal, as they present an unapproved use of the coloring. The product marketed as "black henna" may contain paraphenylenediamine, or PPD, a substance that causes allergic reactions in certain people. The FDA has approved PPD for use as a hair dye, but not for use on the skin.
Additives
Henna that is darker or lasts longer than normal may contain additives with potentially harmful effects. Chemical coloring additives such as daiminotoluenes and diaminobenzenes are sometimes found in henna mixtures, and can cause allergic reactions. Most cases of allergic contact dermatitis occur when the henna mixture includes PPD.
Temporary Tattoos
Reactions caused by "black henna" temporary tattoos containing PPD may occur anywhere from two to 10 days after the dye is applied. Blisters, sores, itching, a red rash or scarring may occur. After experiencing a reaction, you may develop a sensitivity to other cosmetic products including hair dye and sun block. Always make sure that your temporary tattoos do not include PPD by checking the dye's ingredient label.
Member Comments