Henna tattoos can cause allergic reactions, resulting in a rash with blisters, redness, and bumps. Reactions are usually caused by chemical additives in the ink rather than pure henna. Long-term scarring and discoloration can occur, but anti-itch creams and inflammation reducers can help. Consumers should ask about ingredients before getting a tattoo and avoid henna-based inks if they have had a previous allergic reaction to henna hair dyes.
An allergic reaction to henna usually causes a rash with blisters, redness, and bumps in the exact areas where it was applied to the skin. When henna ink is used for temporary tattoos, it can result in a rash in elaborate shapes and designs. All other areas usually remain unaffected. However, very serious reactions could lead to further swelling, trouble breathing and wheezing, and while these cases are very rare, they should be taken seriously.
Most often, an allergic reaction to henna occurs when someone uses a henna-based ink for body art purposes. Henna tattoos aren’t usually made with 100% real henna, however, and reactions may be in response to the chemical additives in these inks rather than the henna itself. True henna is a plant that can be used to make dyes, and allergic reactions are rare when pure inks are used. The additive paraphenylenediamine is the most common chemical related to an allergic reaction to this form of body art.
In the vast majority of cases, the reaction is not considered dangerous. Sufferers may develop an itchy red rash in the exact shape of their henna tattoo, with all surrounding skin remaining unharmed. The rashes can also form blisters that may eventually bleed and scab. Once symptoms begin to subside, however, long-term signs may remain. For example, many people experience permanent scarring or skin discoloration long after the reaction has stopped.
To prevent long-term damage to the skin, those experiencing an allergic reaction to henna should speak to a dermatologist. An anti-itch cream and inflammation reducer may be prescribed. Scratching increases the risk of scarring, so this should be avoided whenever possible. Some patients may also be given additional medications to reduce the risk of scarring.
Before getting a henna tattoo, consumers should ask well in advance what ingredients are used in the ink. Allergic reactions to natural henna are rare, so pure inks are generally considered safe. If paraphenylenediamine is used, a small amount should be applied to the skin in an inconspicuous area to see how the body will react. If redness or swelling occurs, the ink should be washed off immediately and the area should be rinsed with cold water. Those who have had a previous allergic reaction to henna hair dyes should generally avoid henna-based inks because they contain similar, potentially irritating ingredients.
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