* Natural henna (Lawsonia inermis) produces a reddish-brown stain. It doesn't naturally stain black.
* PPD is a chemical dye that is often added to henna to create a black color quickly and make the designs last longer.
* PPD is extremely dangerous and can cause severe allergic reactions, blistering, scarring, and permanent skin damage.
Here's a breakdown of why it happens and what to consider:
* Natural Henna:
* Starts as a green or greenish-brown paste.
* Stains the skin reddish-brown.
* Takes a few days to reach its peak color (typically 48-72 hours).
* Fades gradually over 1-3 weeks.
* "Black Henna" (Henna with PPD):
* Often looks black or very dark brown from the start.
* Stains the skin black very quickly (within hours).
* Tends to be very cheap.
* Is illegal for cosmetic use in many countries due to the health risks.
What to Do If Your Henna Paste Turned Black:
1. Wash it off immediately: If you still have any paste on your skin, wash it off thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Monitor your skin closely: Watch for any signs of a reaction (redness, itching, burning, blisters, swelling).
3. Seek medical attention: If you develop any adverse reactions, consult a doctor or dermatologist immediately. Explain that you suspect your skin was exposed to PPD.
4. Report it (if possible): If you know where you got the henna (e.g., a specific artist, shop, or website), report the incident to local health authorities. This can help prevent others from being harmed.
Important Considerations:
* Trust your instincts: If the henna paste smells strongly chemical or feels unusual, don't use it.
* Ask questions: Always ask the henna artist about the ingredients in the paste. A reputable artist will be transparent and happy to answer your questions.
* Avoid "black henna" or "instant henna": These are almost always signs of PPD.
* Do a small test patch: Apply a tiny amount of the henna paste to a small area of your skin and wait 24 hours to see if you have a reaction. However, even if you don't react to a small test, you could still have a reaction with more extensive application.
* Purchase from reputable sources: Buy henna powder or paste from well-known and trusted suppliers who sell natural henna.
* DIY natural henna: Consider making your own henna paste with natural henna powder, lemon juice, sugar, and essential oils. There are many recipes available online.
In summary, the change to black indicates a high likelihood of dangerous additives and necessitates immediate action and caution.