Temporary “black henna” tattoos causing rise in skin allergies

Dermatologists have reported a rise in skin allergies and irritatios caused by the ingredients used in the temporary tattoos advertised as black henna. The British Skin Foundation (BSF) has issued a consumer warning about so-called “black henna” after its research showed that 4 out of 10 dermatologists have seen patients with skin reactions caused by its use. BSF warmed that the majority of “black henna tattoos” are not based on henna at all, but a substance called para- phenylenediamine (PPD), which is found in hair dyes. PPD is legal for use in hair dye, but its use in skin- contact products such as temporary tattoos is illegal in the European Union. Read the full story here.