People across Lancashire are being warned about the dangers of temporary ‘black henna’ tattoos.

In contrast to traditional henna tattoos, which is a natural product and brown colour, black henna differs.

Chemical paraphenylenediamine (PPD) is used to create black henna, which is so powerful and toxic, it’s illegal to use on skin in this way.

Effects of black henna include blisters, scars, life-threatening allergic reactions and it increases the possibility of you becoming allergic other dyes.

Dr Sakthi Karunanithi, director of public health for Lancashire County Council, said: “We haven’t received any reports of black henna temporary tattoos being offered in Lancashire, but people may see them being sold at shops and stalls when they’re abroad.

“There’s also a chance they may find black henna products online. We’d always advise people not to get a black henna tattoo.

“It can lead to blisters, scars, potentially life-threatening allergic reactions and increase the likelihood of you becoming allergic to other dyes in the future, which is why you should never let anyone paint it on your skin.”

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For more information about black henna temporary tattoos and the negative health effects they can cause, visit the NHS website.

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