Black henna can cause serious skin reactions

Chicago

- Dermatologists warn consumers that black henna tattoos contain para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a harmful chemical associated with a rash and major skin problems, according to PR Newswire.

A dermatologist at the American Academy of Dermatology's Summer Academy Meeting here, discussed the dangers of PPD. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration prohibits the direct application of PPD to the skin because of its known health risks. Some people may even become sensitized to PPD from just one exposure, causing the body to develop an allergy that can cause a cross reaction to other compounds, including certain medications, PR Newswire reports.