Summer is the season of beaches, tanning, and vacationing. It’s also the season for henna tattoos. Henna tattoos are a temporary form of body art, made using a natural plant-based dye called henna.

They are popular especially in India, Middle East, and Africa, but have become trendy all over the world. Henna tattoos are considered safe and free of any danger. However, recent reports have surfaced about the hidden dangers of henna tattoos, which are alarming. Let’s dive in and uncover the dangers of summer henna tattoos.

What is Henna?

Henna, scientifically known as Lawsonia inermis, is a plant grown in hot and dry climates of India, Pakistan, Egypt, and Morocco.

Its leaves are dried, milled, and turned into a fine green powder, which is then mixed into a paste with essential oils and lemon juice. This paste is used to create intricate designs on the skin, popularly known as henna tattoos.

The Hidden Dangers of Henna Tattoos

While henna tattoos are generally considered safe, there are hidden dangers associated with them, which are often overlooked. These hidden dangers can cause severe skin reactions, infections, and long-lasting scars.

Here are some of the hidden dangers of henna tattoos:.

1. Black Henna

Black henna is a synthetic form of henna that is artificially made using a chemical called para-phenylenediamine (PPD). PPD is added to the henna paste to enhance its color and make it black.

However, PPD is a highly toxic chemical that can cause severe allergic reactions, chemical burns, and permanent scarring. Black henna is illegal in many countries, yet it is still available in some shops where regulations are lax.

2. Allergic Reactions

Many people develop allergic reactions to henna, either due to the plant itself or the additives used in the paste. Some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction to henna include itching, redness, blisters, and swelling.

In severe cases, an allergic reaction can lead to anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

3. Infections

Henna tattoos can also cause infections, especially if the needles and equipment used are not properly sanitized. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi can thrive in a warm and moist setting, such as the one created by a healing henna tattoo.

Some of the common infections associated with henna tattoos include staph infections, ringworm, and HIV.

4. Chemical Burns

The chemicals used in henna paste can cause chemical burns if left on the skin for too long. The lemon juice used to make the paste can also cause irritations and burns if it comes in contact with the skin.

Chemical burns from henna tattoos can cause permanent scarring and skin discoloration, which can be unsightly and hard to treat.

5. Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is more prone to developing adverse reactions to henna tattoos. People with sensitive skin should be cautious when getting henna tattoos and should first do a patch test to check for any allergies or sensitivities.

6. Misuse of Henna

Henna is often misused in the name of fashion and body art. Some people add dangerous additives to the henna paste, such as petrol, kerosene, or hair dye, to enhance its color and texture.

This misuse of henna can cause severe health risks and should be avoided at all times.

How to Stay Safe when Getting a Henna Tattoo

While henna tattoos can be dangerous, there are ways to stay safe when getting one. Here are some tips to follow:.

1. Go to a Reputable Henna Artist

Make sure you get your henna tattoo from a reputable and experienced henna artist. Ask for references and check reviews online before choosing an artist.

2. Avoid Black Henna

Avoid getting black henna, as it is highly toxic and can cause severe reactions. Stick to traditional henna, which is usually brown or reddish in color.

3. Do a Patch Test

If you have sensitive skin, do a patch test before getting a henna tattoo. Apply a small amount of henna on your skin and wait for a couple of hours to see if you develop any reactions.

4. Check the Ingredients

Ask the henna artist about the ingredients in the paste used for the tattoo. If you have any allergies, make sure the paste doesn’t contain any harmful additives.

5. Keep the Tattoo Clean and Dry

After getting the tattoo, keep the area clean and dry to prevent infections. Avoid washing the tattoo with soap or water for at least 24 hours to allow the dye to fully set.

Conclusion

Henna tattoos are a popular and temporary form of body art, but they come with hidden dangers that are often overlooked. From toxic chemicals to severe skin reactions, henna tattoos can cause significant health risks if not used safely.

It is important to stay aware of these risks and take necessary precautions to prevent any adverse reactions.