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Updated: Jun 22, 2026
08:25
Contact Hypersensitivity as a Murine Model of Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Published on: September 26, 2022
Contact dermatitis with henna tattoo
Nevin Uzuner1, Duygu Olmez, Arzu Babayigit
1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy, Dokuz Eylul University, Faculty of Medicine, Inciralti, Izmir, Turkey. nuzuner@deu.edu.tr
Indian Pediatrics
|May 30, 2009
Summary
Allergic reactions to henna are rare, but black henna tattoos can cause allergic contact dermatitis. This is often due to para-phenylenediamine (PPD) added to achieve a dark color.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Henna (Lawsonia inermis) is traditionally used for temporary body art.
- Allergic and irritant reactions to natural henna are uncommon.
- Adulterants, such as para-phenylenediamine (PPD), are sometimes added to natural henna to create darker shades.
Observation:
- Two adolescents presented with allergic contact dermatitis.
- The reactions were associated with temporary paint-on tattoos marketed as 'black henna'.
- Patch testing confirmed sensitivity to para-phenylenediamine (PPD).
Findings:
- Para-phenylenediamine (PPD) is the primary cause of reported contact dermatitis associated with 'black henna' tattoos.
- The cases highlight the potential for severe allergic reactions to PPD in temporary tattoos.
- Natural henna reactions are rare, but PPD-induced allergies are a significant concern.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider PPD allergy in patients with dermatitis after temporary tattoos.
- Public awareness regarding the risks of adulterated henna products is crucial.
- Regulation and labeling of temporary tattoo products containing PPD are warranted to prevent adverse reactions.
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