Black Henna Tattoos

Black Henna Tattoos

In recent years, "black henna tattoos" have become popular, particular in beach resort communities.  Black henna tattoos, unlike natural brown or reddish brown tattoos, are not always safe and are known to have produced from minor to serious adverse health effects in children and adults. 

The black henna tattoos are applied using the stencil method.  A henna tattoo scarThe unsafe black henna paste produces a black design because para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a toxic chemical which is exempt from approval by the FDA and is included in small amounts in black hair dye, has been added to the paste.  The addition of PPD dyes the skin quicker and makes the tattoo look more like a permanent tattoo.