Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 3, 2026
08:25
Contact Hypersensitivity as a Murine Model of Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Published on: September 26, 2022
[Contact allergy to henna tattoos]
Bjarte Steinkjer1, Katarina Zak Stangeland, Carsten Sauer Mikkelsen
1Hudavdelingen, Stavanger universitetssykehus, Postboks 8100, 4068 Stavanger, Norway. stbj@sus.no
Summary
Henna tattoos can cause allergic contact dermatitis due to paraphenylenediamine. Avoid these temporary tattoos, especially those with darker dyes, to prevent permanent skin allergies.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Toxicology
Context:
- Henna tattoos are increasingly popular worldwide.
- Rising prevalence of allergic reactions associated with henna tattoos.
Purpose:
- To review the clinical experience and literature regarding henna tattoo-induced allergic contact dermatitis.
- To identify the causative agent and management strategies for adverse reactions.
Summary:
- Adverse skin reactions to henna tattoos are commonly caused by allergic contact dermatitis to paraphenylenediamine (PPD), an azo compound.
- PPD is added to henna dyes to darken the color and expedite the application process.
- Established contact allergy to PPD is permanent and can be triggered by other products containing PPD, such as hair dyes.
Impact:
- Highlights the risks associated with paraphenylenediamine-containing henna tattoos.
- Recommends avoidance of such products to prevent the development of permanent contact allergies.
- Informs healthcare professionals and the public about potential allergens in temporary tattoos.
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