Complications of Henna Tattoos

Natural henna tattoos are red in appearance.

Temporary henna tattoos are a fun and easy substitute for people who want the appearance of a tattoo without the lasting effect. Henna tattoos usually only last for about three weeks, allowing a person to change them according to her mood, significant other or the season. These types of tattoos are usually safe; however, there are some potential side effects, especially depending on the type of henna used.

Allergic Reactions

One possible complication of an authentic natural henna temporary tattoo is an allergic reaction. These are usually quite rare and also quite mild, ranging in symptoms from mild skin irritations to some redness and possible hives or itching.

However, serious side effects can occur with the use of "black henna" for a tattoo. Natural henna is not black in color, but rather has a reddish hue. Black henna is made up of a chemical known as para-phenylenediamine, or PPD, which is the same chemical used in black hair dye.

Serious Skin Irritations

Serious skin irritations caused from a black henna tattoo consist of blisters and large, oozing, open sores. Some individuals have even sustained permanent scars on their skin from black henna tattoos. The irritation does not always become immediately apparent and the reaction takes up to 10 days to manifest.

Cancer

PPD is an allergen and different people react differently to it. Some experience a strong reaction the first time they are exposed to PPD while others become sensitized over a period of time after many exposures. Once an individual is sensitized to PPD, the allergy is permanent. Not only is PPD a sensitizer, but it has also been linked to certain types of cancer, such as bladder cancer.

Acute Renal Failure

Acute rental failure is also associated with PPD. Once the body has been poisoned with the substance, different body systems may begin to shut down, including the kidneys. This condition results in long-term kidney dialysis or even death.

References

• Henna for Hair
• Advanced Cosmetic Technologies: Health Risks Linked to Coloring Your Hair
• Black Henna Dangers
• The Henna Page: Warnings