Henna tattoos become popular with the arrival of heat and the summer months. Our children may be convinced to get a temporary tattoo with this substance, but it is convenient to know all the risks.
You don't have to be on vacation to be tempted by henna. On the internet we find all kinds of body art kits with this substance, so it is possible to practice on yourself from home. Although it may seem like a temporary tattoo is harmless fun (it looks like a natural item, after all), there are some potential risks involved. Whether you are an adult, teenager or children, all this interests you.
composition of henna
Henna is a small flowering shrub. The leaves of this plant dry up and become a fine powder. That powder is the one that can be used to dye hair or skin temporarily. Henna body art has been used to adorn the body of women in a variety of ceremonies for thousands of years, most notably in India. Even brides wear it at weddings and religious ceremonies in some parts of the world.
Although most pastes include natural ingredients to enhance the natural colors, the black henna, a type that is mixed with a noxious substance to darken it and last it, has gained recognition over the years. These additives can present significant skin risks in the form of chemical burns and allergic reactions.
Those unfamiliar with the practice may wonder if henna tattoos are permanent. Although they are temporary, there are some factors that influence the duration. Once applied, it is said that the longer you leave it to absorb into the skin, the darker it will be. The darker it is, the longer it will last. Also where the henna is placed will influence its duration. Frequently used and exposed to soap and water, hands and feet may start to fade after a week and disappear completely by two weeks. On the other hand, if it is used on the back or upper arm it can last another week or two.
Are there risks when getting a tattoo?
In Europe, henna has not yet been approved as a cosmetic, despite the fact that tattoos or dyes are made with this substance. Of course, that doesn't mean you can't use it for whatever you want or find it available at fairgrounds, pharmacies, and other stores.
The Medicines Agency has warned that some people experience severe skin reactions when applying a henna tattoo. The most common problems that have been reported are redness, blistering, raised and oozing lesions, loss of pigmentation, increased sensitivity to sunlight, and even permanent scarring.
It's also important to note that some dyes are sold as henna and show bright colors, such as blue, green, yellow, or purple. But the real henna is orange, red or brown in color. It is not clear how these dyes may affect the skin and it is likely that the material quality used vary greatly.
Also, it can be dangerous for people with G6PD deficiency, a condition in which the body does not have enough of the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, which helps red blood cells work. If a teen has a G6PD deficiency, they may not know it. Many people do not have any symptoms until their red blood cells are exposed to certain triggers. For some, henna can be a trigger, causing a breakdown of red blood cells, resulting in a variety of medical complications.
How much does it cost?
The truth is that there is no fixed price, since it depends on the size and complexity of the tattoo. In the end the price is in relation to the amount of time it takes. Henna tattoos are usually much less expensive compared to ink based tattoos introduced into the skin. These can cost between €50 and €1000, depending on the size and where you go.
Instead, a simple tattoo can cost about 20 euros and the most elaborate designs for a bride can go up to 250 euros. You also have to keep in mind that it can cost much less at fairs or street vendors on the beaches. The larger pieces and more intricate designs may be more expensive, but they don't come close to what a permanent tattoo might cost.
The experience and skill of the artist also play a key role. Skilled artists are fast and master freehand drawing. But, if a specific design is requested, it might cost a bit more. However, you must always choose reliable places that meet strict hygiene standards.
Tips for maintaining a henna tattoo
Although there are some things you can do to make your tattoo last longer, it usually lasts three to four weeks. After about 10-15 days, you can expect the stain to start to fade, but before that it should have strong color and opacity. But you can always carry certain habits to improve care:
- Don't touch it after application. Once applied, let it sit for about 30 minutes to make sure it's dry and smudge resistant.
- Avoid the water. Cover it up while you shower, bathe or do the dishes.
- Avoid chemicals. Stay away from salt water, harsh chemicals (including hand sanitizer), and chlorine.
- Keep it hydrated. Like a self-tanner, henna requires hydration to prolong fading.
If you would like to remove tattoo of henna, exfoliate the skin with a pumice stone or loofah and a body scrub. You can also mix a cup of olive oil with a few tablespoons of sea salt and apply the mixture to your skin to help remove the dye. If you have had it done at a trusted site, you can ask a specialist for an opinion to find out how to remove the remains properly without damaging the skin.