Black Henna Warning From Canada that All Should Heed

Canadian Black Henna Warning
-concurs with U.S. FDA and CDC¹warnings

On several occasions I’ve shared information regarding the dangers of hair dye that contains para-phenlenediamine (PPD). For emphasis, I’m sharing what the Canadian government has stated on their website, Healthy Canadians. While the focus is on henna tattoos, it also is applicable to hair dye being sold as, Black Henna (mixed with PPD and other chemicals).


What is Black Henna?

“Black Henna can be sold as a black ink or as a mix of black coloring and natural henna. Black henna is sometimes mixed with hair dye that contains para-phenlenediamine (PPD). Cosmetic products containing PPD that are put directly on the skin (like temporary tattoos) can cause serious allergic reactions. This is why PPD is listed as a restricted ingredient on Canada’s Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist.

Per the website, PPD is not allowed as an ingredient in cosmetic products that are used on the skin. When it’s included in hair dye products, specific warnings and directions for safe use must be displayed on the packaging.

Symptoms of Allergic Reaction to PPD

Note that the potential for serious allergic reaction increases with every use of any hair dye containing PPD. In other words, you can go years without an incident; then a serious allergic reaction can occur somewhat suddenly. There are many similar experiences of sufferers all over the globe.

According to Healthy Canadians², “You may not react the first time you come in contact with PPD. But future exposure (when using hair dye, for example) can lead to an allergy. Allergic reactions to PPD can occur 1 to 14 days following contact with skin. Reactions usually occur where the product was applied, and may include: redness, rashes, itching, blisters, swelling, pain.

Serious reactions can include: hives (swollen, pale red bumps on the skin); dizziness; fainting; stomach pain and cramping.”*

The 'Black Henna' name is misused for skin (tattoo) and hair dye products, are not only derived from the plant, but a combination of chemical dye mixed with natural, usually low-grade plants made into a black powder or liquid dye.”

Other Facts About the Hair Product Called: ‘Black Henna’

• 'Black Henna' Hair Dye is a Misnomer
• 'Black Henna' hair dye is not pure, nor is it pure henna. Pure henna is not black. If pure henna is mixed with para-phenylenediamine (PPD), 'coal tar', it is no longer pure henna, but is a harmful chemical hair dye that can cause severe allergic contact dermatitis and even be deadly.
• 'Black Henna' hair dye is usually composed of poor quality henna mixed with dangerous chemicals; some proven to be quite toxic, such as: para-phenylenediamine (PPD) and more.
• 'Black Henna' Hair Dye is advertised as being high quality, beneficial and safe; this can be confusing to the unaware consumer.
• 'Black Henna' hair dye can ruin your hair and skin permanently.
• 'Black Henna' is not pure indigo or 'black indigo'; the indigo plant is not black. If indigo is mixed with chemicals dyes, or even henna that has been compromised by chemicals, including PPD, then it is not pure indigo or the so-called, 'black henna'. It is a harmful chemical hair dye.

Don’t Confuse ‘Black Henna’ with Natural Henna

When thinking of the product commonly imported and sold as ‘Black Henna’, please don’t confuse it with Lustrous Henna in Soft Black. These are two totally different products, one is potentially dangerous; the other is actually beneficial and healthy.

“Natural henna is a red-brown color. It is made from the dried leaves of the Lawsonia plant. When applied to the skin, henna can leave a brown, orange-brown or reddish-brown tint. Natural henna is generally save to use directly on skin.

Some coloring ingredients added to natural henna are also safe. It is sometimes mixed with lemon and eucalyptus oil. This can change the shade and how long it lasts on the skin. Natural henna can be sold as: powder, paste or liquid.”²

Learn more about Para-Phenylenediamine (PPD) dangers

¹Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 
²Healthy Canadians

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

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 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.