Henna Trends Take A Risky Turn With Harmful Chemicals

(MENAFN- Tribal News Network)

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By: Nazia Salarzai

Whenever a joyful occasion arrives, the first thing that comes to women’s minds is applying henna, as it is considered an essential part of celebrations in Pakistan.

Applying henna is undoubtedly a beautiful tradition, but do you know that the chemical-based henna used today can even cost someone their life or cause lifelong disability?

That is why caution is extremely important, especially during Eid, when women of all ages apply henna. Nowadays, the desire for an instant and darker color has increased, but this deep color is often the result of chemical-laden henna.

Surprisingly, even a tiny amount of such henna, if it touches the skin, leaves a strong stain immediately-even after washing-indicating the intensity of harmful chemicals present in it.

Also Read: Eid Cards: A Lost Tradition That Once Carried Love, Joy, and Handwritten Memories

New Types of Henna:

In the past, loose henna was commonly available, but today henna has evolved so much that it can be confusing to choose the right one.

Modern varieties include emergency cone henna, syringe-based henna, pen-style henna, white henna (temporary), tattoo henna, and sticker henna.

In sticker henna, pre-designed patterns are applied to the hand using adhesive paper. Once removed, they leave behind a deep color and a beautiful design. This method is very easy to use.

Difference Between Natural and Chemical Henna:

In earlier times, pure henna was made by grinding fresh henna leaves on stone. It was completely natural but gave a relatively lighter color. Later, for convenience, henna powder became available in markets.

Women would mix it with water to make a paste, apply it to hands and feet at night, and wrap it with cloth to protect the design. The deep color would appear the next day, as it was free from chemicals.

Even today, pure henna is available and is mostly used by older women for coloring hair. Its color is long-lasting and does not wash off easily with water.

On the other hand, chemical henna contains a substance called PPD (para-phenylenediamine), commonly used in hair dyes to produce a darker and quicker color. While everyone’s skin reacts differently, excessive use can be harmful.

Henna Allergy:

An allergy caused by henna is known as contact dermatitis. In such cases, fingers may turn black due to disrupted blood circulation and may even become numb.

In severe cases, the condition can become so critical that fingers may need to be amputated, as the reaction can spread to other parts of the body and pose a serious threat to life.

Additionally, henna can cause itching, redness, burning, and blisters on the skin, and these marks can take a long time to heal.

Precautionary Measures:

We must always remember that health is more important than celebration. Always choose pure, natural, and chemical-free henna. Before applying, do a patch test by applying a small amount on your skin and waiting for 10 to 15 minutes.

If you feel any irritation, itching, or discomfort, wash it off immediately and avoid using it.

Keep young girls away from chemical henna, as their skin is very sensitive. It is also important to educate them about its harmful effects.

Note: This article reflects the author’s personal opinion, which does not necessarily represent the views of the organization.

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