- Black henna is often used for temporary tattooing.
- Black henna is not a natural product. The black colour is usually created by adding a chemical called paraphenylenediamine (PPD).
- PPD is not intended for direct application to the skin.
- When PPD is applied directly to the skin it can cause allergic reactions and long-term skin sensitisation.
- Always check the ingredient lists before using henna or henna-like products.
- Black henna or henna-like products that contain PPD should not be used for temporary tattoos.
On this page
What is Black Henna and Henna?
Henna is a red or brown dye usually made from the leaves of a henna or mignonette tree. The leaves are dried, ground into powder and mixed with either oil or water to form a paste. This paste is applied to the skin to create temporary designs commonly on the hands and feet. Temporary henna tattoos can last up to two weeks.
PPD may be added to henna to make it a darker colour and may be called black henna. PPD also makes the temporary tattoo last longer. Black henna is not a natural substance as it is mixed with PPD.
Some people might use hair dye containing PPD to make a ‘black henna’ paste used for temporary black tattoos. Avoid using hair dye that contains PPD for temporary tattoos.
What is Paraphenylenediamine (PPD)?
PPD is an organic compound and is part of a class of chemicals called aromatic amines (5).
Aromatic amines like PPD are found in:
- Permanent hair dyes
- Photographic and printing chemicals
- Textile and industrial dyes
- Plastic and rubber manufacturing products
PPD is a dyeing agent commonly found in cosmetics such as permanent hair dyes. PPD in hair dyes gives a darker, natural, and longer lasting colour.
PPD and allergic contact dermatitis
When products such as black henna or hair dye containing PPD are used on the skin, it can lead to allergic contact dermatitis. This is a delayed immune reaction with symptoms appearing 1 to 14 days after exposure.
Allergic contact dermatitis is a delayed immune reaction on the skin following skin contact with a substance such as a chemical. Once a person develops allergic contact dermatitis, they remain sensitised for life. Even small amounts of PPD exposure in the future can trigger a reaction.
Symptoms of exposure to PPD include
- redness
- rashes
- itching
- blisters
- swelling
- pain
Reducing your risk
If you are considering a temporary tattoo, you can reduce your risk by:
- Avoid using products that contain PPD.
- Not using hair dye on skin.
- Asking the temporary tattoo artist what ingredients are in the product.
- If there is no ingredient list or if PPD is listed, avoid getting a temporary tattoo with this product.
- Choosing products known to be PPD-free and safe for skin use.
Remember: if the paste produces a dark black stain quickly, it is likely to contain PPD.
Where to get help
- Your GP (doctor)
- Pharmacist
- In an emergency, call triple zero 000
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
