Side effects of mehndi on hands

Side effects of mehndi on hands

While natural henna (Lawsonia inermis) is generally considered safe and has many benefits, there are several side effects and risks associated with its application on the hands, especially when using products that are not pure.

The Dangers of "Black Henna"

The most significant and dangerous side effects of henna on the skin are almost always caused by an additive called para-phenylenediamine (PPD). This chemical, which is a common ingredient in hair dyes, is added to henna to make the color darker and to reduce the time needed for the stain to develop. PPD is not approved for use on the skin by many regulatory bodies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The side effects of "black henna" can be severe and long-lasting:

• Severe Allergic Contact Dermatitis: This is the most common reaction. It typically appears 1 to 14 days after the application and can include intense itching, redness, swelling, blistering, and a burning sensation in the shape of the design.

• Permanent Scarring: The allergic reaction to PPD can be so severe that it causes chemical burns, leading to permanent scars, hypopigmentation (light patches), or hyperpigmentation (dark patches) in the tattoo's pattern.

• Sensitization to PPD: A single exposure to PPD on the skin can cause a lifelong sensitivity to the chemical. This means that a person who has a reaction to "black henna" may later have a severe allergic reaction to products that contain PPD, such as hair dyes, certain fabrics, and even some medications.

Side Effects of Pure Henna

While much rarer, even pure henna can have some minor side effects:

• Allergic Reactions: A small number of individuals may have an allergic reaction to the natural henna plant itself, though this is uncommon. Symptoms can include mild redness, itching, and swelling.

• Dryness: Henna has a natural drying effect on the skin due to its astringent properties. For some people, this can lead to temporary dryness or a feeling of tightness.

• Sensitivity to Sunlight: Henna may temporarily increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, making it more prone to sunburn in the tattooed area.

• Risk for Infants and Children: In very rare cases, applying henna to the skin of infants and young children with a genetic condition called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency can cause their red blood cells to burst, leading to a life-threatening form of anemia.

How to Stay Safe

To avoid the dangerous side effects associated with "black henna," it is crucial to:

• Ask what's in the paste: Always ask the artist what ingredients are in their henna paste. If they claim it's "black henna" or that it will stain in less than an hour, it likely contains PPD.

• Check the color: Pure henna paste is greenish-brown, not black. The stain it leaves on the skin is initially orange, and it gradually darkens to a reddish-brown over 24-48 hours.

• Perform a patch test: If you are unsure about the product, ask for a small patch test on a discreet area of your skin at least 24 hours before a full application.