Henna Tattoos Can Cause Skin Reaction

Thursday, October 02 2008

The American Academy of Dermatology warns of the potential danger of black henna tattoos, stating that serious skin reactions can occur. Natural henna contains a chemical called para-phenylenediamine (PPD), which is used to increase intensity and longevity of the tattoo. PPD is also used in black hair dye. The Food and Drug Administration actually prohibits PPD from being applied to the skin, but the tattoo industry is not regulated by the FDA. Hundreds have reported negative reactions to black henna tattoos, such as blistering, scarring, and other allergic reactions.

To prevent the liklihood of a nasty skin reaction, only get vegetable henna, not PPD henna.