Dangers of Black henna
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would apply henna, in an effort to find something that would quickly make jet black would
apply henna, in an effort to find something that would quickly blistering, intense make jet
black temporary body art. PPD can cause severe allergic reactions, with , and
permanent chemical sensitivities[21] [22]. Estimates of allergic reactions range
blistering, intense itching, [22]. Estimates of allergic reactions range between 3% and
permanent scarringcause these injuries[23].
, and permanent chemical sensitivities[21]
[22]. Estimates of allergic reactions range between 3% and 15%. Henna does not
cause these injuries[23].
Para-phenylenediamine is illegal for use on skin in western countries, though
enforcement is lax. When used in hair dye, the PPD amount must be below 6%, and
application instructions warn that the dye not touch the scalp and the dye must be
quickly rinsed away. “Black henna” pastes have PPD percentages from 10% to 60%,
and are left on the skin for half an hour.
Para-phenylenediamine “black henna” use is widespread, particularly in tourist areas.
Because the blistering reaction appears 3 to 12 days after the application, most tourists
have left and do not return to show how much damage the artist has done. This permits
the artists to continue injuring others, unaware they are causing severe injuries. The high
profit margins of ‘black henna” and the demand for body art that emulates “tribal tattoos”
further encourage artists to ignore the dangers. It is not difficult to recognize and avoid
para-phenylenediamine “black henna”:
if a paste stains torso skin black in less than ½ hour, it has PPD in it, and little or no
henna.
If the paste is mixed with peroxide, or if peroxide is wiped over the design to bring out
the colour, it has PPD in it, and little or no henna.
Anyone who has an itching and blistering reaction to a black body stain should go to a
doctor, and report that they have had an application of para-phenylenediamine to their
skin.
PPD sensitivity is life-long and once sensitized, the use of synthetic hair dye can be life
threatening [24]. These injuries are not caused by henna, and a person can use henna
as hair dye.
PPD is an acceptable ingredient in hair dyes that, when used correctly, do not come into contact with
skin for prolonged periods of time. The use of PPD in cosmetics applied to the skin for prolonged
periods of time poses a risk to the health and safety of the user. As such, "black henna" temporary tattoo
ink and paste containing PPD is not considered safe.
Under Section 16 of the Food and Drugs Act, no person shall sell cosmetics that contain substances
that may cause injury to the health of the user when the cosmetic is used according to the directions on
the label or accompanying the cosmetic. Cosmetics containing PPD that are applied directly to the skin
are not to be sold in Canada. This includes "black henna" temporary tattoos containing PPD, which are
often sold and applied by artisans at markets, fairs and amusement parks.
Before receiving a henna tattoo, ask the vendor to confirm that PPD is not being used in the ink or
paste. Health Canada permits the use of natural henna and other safe dyes in cosmetics.
Here are some things to look for if you suspect that PPD is being used in "black henna"
tattoo ink or paste:
PPD in "black henna" is used for its long-lasting properties and intense black colour. If the formula and
resulting tattoo are jet black, the ink or paste may contain PPD;
If the tattoo is to be removed within an hour, the ink or paste may contain PPD;
PPD stains typically last one to three weeks, without fading; and,
PPD-black henna mixes usually have very little or no scent.