Henna (Mehendi) is known to be used during Egyptian times to colour their hair and nails. It was brought to India in the 12th century by Mughals from Persia.
Mehendi is traditionally used to colour hands and feet before the wedding or any other celebrations.
Natural henna is obtained from the plant Lawsonia inermis. The active colouring agent is called Lawsone which is present in very low concentrations (<2%). This Lawsone binds to the skin/nail cells (keratin) to impart orange to red colour.
This natural henna is very safe despite its vast usage. Side effects are rare. However, to shorten the duration of the application and to get a darker colour, extra ingredients are added to natural henna.
These are PPD (most imp culprit for side effects), diaminotoulene, coffee, black tea, lemon juice, tamarind, eucalyptus oil, mustard oil, clove oil, fenugreek oil etc!
PPD (para phenylene diamine) is mostly used in hair dyes and lots of other industries as a colouring agent.
Most side effects are due to the added PPD. Side effects symptoms can be seen as:
. Itching
. Contact Dermatitis (redness, flaky skin, swelling, oozing, crusting, burning sensation).
. Vesicobullous reaction (small to large fluid-filled lesions over the applied area).
. Generalized Contact Dermatitis- local reaction with fever, malaise and lymphadenopathy.
. Pigmentary reactions (lightening or darkening of the skin where the henna is applied).
. Scarring/keloids.
. Secondary bacterial infection.
. Sometimes can be life-threatening reactions too (anaphylaxis, rhabdomyolysis and renal failure).
A patch test can be done to ensure the henna application is safe to go ahead.
Precautions:
Natural henna is safe to use. Almost everyone can use it safely. Care should be taken in readymade henna products. If any history of allergy to hair dye should use it cautiously. If any redness, itching or burning occurs wash immediately. And consult a Dermatologist.
Always test a small patch over the inner arm or any small area, if no reaction in 24hours, then can use safely. If any side effects occur, Do not waste time on home remedies or hearsay methods. Always visit a certified Dermatologist to get the right treatment.
Proper treatment on time can shorten the duration of adverse effects and can prevent permanent scarring and pigmentation problems.
