Henna Tattoo Dangers

Henna tattoos are temporary works of body art. The paste is derived from a plant. Most people get Henna tattoos on their hands and arms. But the dye in black henna–which isn't derived from the plant–can cause severe allergies in some people.

Skin Reactions

• Black henna–not to be confused with natural henna–is a chemical dye meant to be a temporary skin dye. However, many people have an adverse reaction to this chemical dye. The reaction causes the skin to swell and break out, often resulting in painful blisters. These skin reactions vary in intensity from one person to another, as do the injuries that the reactions cause to the skin–for example, some people might only swell, others might swell and also blister.

Allergies

• If a person has a negative reaction to black henna, then that reaction can turn into a permanent allergy, according to a report on MSNBC. PPD, the chemical found in black henna and in hair dye, is also found in numerous medications including painkillers. If a person develops an allergy to black henna, and thus to PPD, then anytime they come into contact with that chemical from any other source, they could have a flare up from these other chemicals that are related to black henna.

Scarring

• There is a danger that, if your allergic reaction is severe enough, you will have a permanent reminder of your henna tattoo experience, according to the Florida State Health Department. Ironically, this dye which is meant to be temporary, can cause blisters and swelling so severe that scars are left behind like brands in the shape of the original henna tattoo design. With proper care and treatment the marks should be temporary, but some people have such severe reactions that scarring will take place no matter what's done for them.