Henna, Ingredients & Safety

What is 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.

PPD (Para-phenylenediamine) explained

PPD is not approved for direct skin application in body art. Once someone is sensitised, they may react to hair dyes, some textiles and other products for life.

To avoid PPD, choose an artist who uses natural or BAQ henna and avoid any product promising an instant dark or black stain.

Also searched as: ppd in henna · paraphenylenediamine · ppd allergy mehendi

Related mehendi terms

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.Chemical ConeA chemical cone is a ready-made mehendi cone that contains synthetic dyes or preservatives so it stains dark very quickly. These cones often give a maroon or black colour in minutes and can irritate or harm the skin.Henna AllergyA 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 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.

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