Black Henna Good for Skin ? A researcher reviews
Do you know? Several countries, including Australia, Canada, and parts of Europe, have issued warnings or outright bans on black henna products containing unsafe chemical additives.
In this article we will discuss black henna,its side effects and why it is banned. Not only this but also we will study about the natural henna and its comaprison with black henna as a researcher, so take a sip of coffee and lean back to explore everything you need to know.
According to research conducted by Anton C. de Groot the dried and powdered leaf of Lawsonia inermis, Natural Henna, is widely used as a dye for the skin, hair, and nails, and as an expression of body art, especially in Islamic and Hindu cultures. This is natural Henna from the natural plants.
What is black henna?
Black henna is the combination of red henna with p-phenylenediamine (PPD), and is used for temporary ‘black henna tattoos’. No natural black henna exists.
In Western cultures, black henna tattoos are most used as they are temporary and in no time they give a beautiful look on the skin for a short period.
These tattoos stain the skin black and have the appearance of a real tattoo. Because black henna tattoo mixtures are often extemporaneously prepared by the artist with a variety of materials and sources, the actual concentrations of PPD and other ingredients may vary greatly.
Black Henna Skin Allergy
According to research conducted by Fofana Youssouf,
Black henna refers to a temporary tattooing practice that often includes para-phenylenediamine (PPD), leading to allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis. It is commonly used in ceremonies but poses significant skin risks, particularly among young people.
How to differentiate between black Henna and Natural Henna
Natural henna is derived solely from the leaves of the Lawsonia inermis plant and typically has a greenish or brownish color. It has a specific earthy aroma. When exposed to the moisture it changes the color to yellow.
Black henna, on the other hand, does not change color when it is moist. The color of henna is dark brown or black and when exposed to water it does not change the color.
Its color is due to added chemicals like para-phenylenediamine (PPD), which gives it its deep black stain. Unlike natural henna, black henna can smell chemically harsh. Always check product labels for ingredients—natural henna will not include synthetic dyes like PPD, while black henna mostly does.
Permanent tattoo vs black Henna tattoo
Permanent tattoo
It is a painful but permanent pattern on the skin and it is practiced mostly in Western countries. It requires specialty and skills as it is permanent.
Black Henna Tattoo
Black henna tattoo is not permanent and it is not painful, it long lasts for 3 to 7 days. It looks like a fun activity as it involves no needles as the dye is applied by brushes or pens, sometimes cones can be used. So therefore no specific expertise or skill is required for it.
As it is considered safe to use many parents allow their children to apply henna and it may cause allergic reactions and cause harm ultimately if not used safely.
Is black henna bad for the skin?
Black henna is controversial. At the same time, it delivers a highly dark stain desired in temporary tattoos, the PPD it contains can cause severe allergic reactions, including rashes, chemical burns, and sensitization that may lead to allergic skin.
The European Commission and FDA warn against the unregulated use of PPD in skin applications, as concentrations above 2% can be highly toxic.
What are the long-term effects of exposure to black henna?
PPD is harmful checmical present in black henna,if exposed for long time then it may cause skin
- Chronic dermatitis
- Scarring
- Pigment changes in skin
- If inhaled may cause respiratory issues
- It may cause organ damage
- Chronic allergic response
How can you test for allergies to henna products?
A patch test is the most effective way to check for allergies and use henna products. Applying a small amount of henna on the forearms and behind the ears and checking its reaction for the next 24 to 48 hours is the best way to test the product.
If there is swallowing or itchy feeling then consult a dermatologist and avoid using it further.
If no reaction happens then it’s safe to use.
How does PPD in black henna chemically react with skin?
PPD (para-phenylenediamine) is a synthetic dye that produces dark stain on exposure to air. This reaction involves free radicles and contribute to chemical bonding process. But ,PPD is also potent allergen that can penetrate the skin barrier and trigger an immune response, leading to contact dermatitis.
It can cause
- Redness
- Itching
- Blistring
- Severe burn
What are some safer alternatives to black henna for temporary tattoos?
- Natural Henna: Always opt for 100% natural henna that is free of additives and synthetic dyes. This is the safest option for skin decoration.
- Jagua Gel: Derived from the juice of the Genipa americana fruit, jagua gel is a natural and safe alternative that produces a blue-black color stain, similar in appearance to black henna but without harmful chemicals.
- Temporary Tattoo Markers: Skin-safe markers designed for body art offer another alternative, as they are dermatologically tested and FDA-approved.
- Decal Temporary Tattoos: These are pre-printed designs using safe inks that adhere to the skin with water and are easy to remove.
How to read ingredients before purchasing henna
So,most of the times we purchase henna and apply it as we have no time for testing,though its safe method . but I would provide you some tips on how to read ingredients before purchasing for safe use.
- Read ingredients either they are safe to use or not.Read the amount of PPD used , as FDA recommended less than 2% for a person use.
- Check either the product is approved by FDA or any other certificate like ISO 22000 etc
- Chemicals used are of natural origin or not.
- Concentration of chemicals used.
So, after these precautions you can buy henna and apply it on your hands.