Stain & Aftercare

What is Henna Allergy?

A henna allergy is a skin reaction to mehendi paste. Reactions to pure natural henna are uncommon; most serious reactions are caused by PPD in black henna or chemical cones, or by strong essential oils in the paste.

Henna Allergy explained

Symptoms can include itching, redness, swelling, blisters or raised outlines of the design. Severe or spreading reactions need medical attention.

People with G6PD deficiency are generally advised to avoid henna altogether, and parents should be cautious with very young children.

Also searched as: mehendi allergy · henna reaction · mehendi itching

Related mehendi terms

PPD (Para-phenylenediamine)PPD, or para-phenylenediamine, is a synthetic dye used in permanent hair colour. When added to "black henna" or some instant cones, it can sensitise the skin and cause allergic reactions ranging from itching to severe blistering.Black HennaBlack henna is not real henna. It is usually a paste containing PPD (para-phenylenediamine), a synthetic hair-dye chemical that stains skin black within minutes and can cause severe allergic reactions, blisters and lasting scars.Henna Patch TestA henna patch test means applying a small dab of the paste to the inner arm and waiting 24-48 hours to check for redness, itching or swelling before getting a full design. It is especially useful for sensitive skin and children.Essential Oils in HennaEssential oils in henna, often called "terps" or mehendi oil, are plant oils rich in monoterpene alcohols - such as eucalyptus, cajeput, tea tree or lavender - that are added to paste to help release dye and deepen the stain.

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