Two days ago we read in Babies and More, information about the risks of black henna tattoos for kids. It seems that cases of allergic contact eczema are appearing after the application of these tattoos, and some of the cases occur in minors.
The possibility of experimenting with different designs, and their apparent innocuousness, leads us to be attracted to these techniques. But as we read in 'Learn oriental dance', there is a lot of misinformation about it, because one thing is natural henna, and another thing is colored or black.
Henna is a reddish-brown dye that is made from a plant originating in tropical and subtropical regions, it has been used for thousands of years to dye skin, hair, nails, tissues. But to make the black variety, it is mixed with a ingredient that contains paraphenylenediamine (PFD), and can cause dangerous skin reactions. When black henna tattoos spread, temporary tattoo kiosks proliferate in vacation spots, they can also be obtained at ethnic stores. Ignorance does the rest, at ignore the serious consequences that these tattoos can carry.
To date, there have been hundreds of reports of black tattoos that cause allergic contact dermatitis, with reactions ranging from mild eczema to blisters and permanent scars. Among the signs of an allergic reaction are redness and itching, bumps, swelling and blisters. Some people can become sensitive to PFD with just one exposure and develop a sensitivity to the substance for life, together with an allergy that can cause a cross-reaction to other compounds, including some drugs
In Babies and More, they give us information about possible consequences, telling us that permanent scars, increased sensitivity to sunlight, and extreme cases can occur. development of severe renal insufficiency due to glomerulonegritis due to the absorption of PPD.
Black henna tattoos are not contemplated in the aforementioned regulations on cosmetics and, because they are temporary tattoos, they are not subject to the legislation that regulates the realization of permanent tattoos. So, in the middle of a legislative vacuum, the non-professional application of these tattoos is increasing exponentially, without proper control over them. It is almost impossible to know the exact composition of the black henna used in a specific patient who consults for an allergic contact eczema.
Henna tattoos? Precautions to take
As we discovered in 'Learn Oriental Dance', the allergy test must be required, also ask the tattooist for informationTo ensure that it is natural henna, usually if they are professionals, they will ask us about a health history.
It is better for children and pregnant women not to use henna, due to the powerful essential oils. A good tattoo artist will solve all doubts, and even offer written information about his service.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration prohibits the direct application of PFD to the skin due to known health risks, and be attentive to the reactions of other health agencies in the surrounding countries.
It is important to know that adverse reactions can occur after the tattoo is performed, and until several days / weeks later. What is clear is that it is a risk that is better to avoid, however attractive it may be to wear one of those tattoos on our skin, or that of our children, otherwise, is there any chance we have to visit the emergency department from the health center / or hospital, at the place of vacation.
Images | Brian O'Donovan, Pediatrics Annals Via | Babies and More In Peques and More | Tattoos for children are allowed in summer
