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Can Too Many Temporary Tattoos Be Harmful?

Wearing temporary tattoos can be a fun way to experiment with body art without the permanence of the real thing. Unfortunately, too many temporary tattoos can be harmful to the body.

  1. Types

    • Avoid black henna tattoos that contain the additive para-phenylenediamine (PPD). Natural henna, a derivative from a shrub grown in regions of India, North Africa and Sri Lanka, is considered harmless. The addition of PPD causes allergic reactions in some.

    Identification

    • Confirm with the tattoo vendor whether his henna tattoos contain PPD. Henna tattoos that are a shiny, jet black usually will contain some PPD.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Remove or wash off any black henna tattoo if an allergic reaction is apparent. Look for redness or irritation on and around the tattoo.

    Alternatives

    • Look for stick-on tattoos. Although they may not last as long as a henna tattoo, they are much safer on the skin, especially for children.

    Benefits

    • Use alternative paints or crayons to make "body paint" tattoos. These type of tattoos are highly temporary and may be washed off with ease, usually in one sitting.

    Considerations

    • Consider future allergic reactions due to previous PPD exposure. Some people who have worn black henna tattoos in the past might discover new allergies to some hair colors and dyes that contain PPD.

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