Temporary/Black henna tattoos in the summerTemporary tattoos, or henna tattoos, are often applied on the skin for short-term decoration. However, be aware of “black henna tattoos” that can cause short and long term damage to your skin.
Henna extract is orange-red in colour and “black henna tattoos” are in face not henna at all, but actually contain a chemical called PPD (paraphenylene diamine). Using this chemical on the skin is actually illegal under the Cosmetics Directive and can be very harmful to your skin. PPD is safe when used as part of hair colorants, but can cause a painful allergic reaction called ‘contact dermatitis’ when applied directly to the skin. The area to which PPD is applied can flare up and leave you with a swollen, sore, red rash. Black henna tattoos can also cause long-term damage by making your skin more susceptible to reactions when you use other safe products which contain PPD, such as a hair colorant.
PPD should not be used in temporary tattoos, but they are still prevalent, particularly on beaches and on holidays abroad and you should avoid them at all costs. If you do suffer a reaction from a temporary tattoo, consult your dermatologist who will carry out a patch test. This will identify what ingredient has caused the problem so you can avoid it in future.
Tattoos and skin disease
By piercing the skin with a needle, the risks are the same as with any injection, including spread of blood-bourne viruses such as hepatitis and HIV infection. Allergy to certain pigments can also occur resulting in an eczema-type reaction.
Cleanliness and reputable, registered agents
Ensure that you visit a reputable tattooist. There are definite health risks attached to using tattooists who are not registered with the council. If they are not registered then there is no guarantee that the equipment is clean and safe.
Tattoo removalSome people regret having their tattoos and often do not know where to turn to have it removed. Ensure that you visit a reputable agent.
Laser tattoo removal is a safe and effective treatment and is recommended for most cases.
Tattoo Safety Month is in association with SK:N Clinics- www.skinclinics.co.uk
If there is anything you would like us to cover this month, then please let us know, by emailing indy@bad.org.uk
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