English Boy Hospitalized over Henna Tattoo
A few months ago, Inked Talk reported on the dangers of an allergic reaction to an additive often used to darken the henna used in henna temporary tattoos.
A story in today’s DailyIndia.com reports a young boy’s severe allergic reaction to a henna tattoo. His reaction sounds particularly severe - it required four trips to the hospital and he missed a month of school. The article categorizes it as a “botched” henna tattoo. However, the symptoms described sound much more like a severe allergic reaction.
Worldwide, henna tattoo artists continue to use PPD as an additive in henna to darken the henna and create a black tattoo. With more and more reports of allergic reactions to henna tattoos, it is amazing that little is being done to regulate the practice.
July 11th, 2008 at 6:52 am
Well, we’re trying! Responsible henna artists that is.
The first step is accurate information. For example that boy was not injured by a henna tattoo. He was injured by the PPD. The easy way to tell if a henna vendor is using ppd is to ask what color the “tattoo” will be right after the paste is removed. Safe natural henna should be orange. It takes several days to darken to brown or deep reds. PPD laced poison will be brown or black immediately.
The next step is to spread the word. Tell your friends, comment on blogs, etc. If you know someone who’s had a black “henna” without adverse effects make sure they know that they are not immune. Sensitizing chemicals increase the chances of reactions with every exposure!
The final step. Tattle! If you see a street vendor with this poison tell the authorities. There are actually very good regulations in the UK and Canada. They’re even starting to pay a little attention in the US.
Jen
July 11th, 2008 at 8:21 am
That’s what I love to hear - I have a serious PPD allergy myself, so I am pretty sensitive to this information. Thanks for the great comment!