Makeup trends come and go at lightning speed, with new, sometimes bizarre, beauty fads emerging, especially on social media. The latest to arrive on Instagram? Henna makeup! Traditionally preferred for intricate hand designs, henna is now making its place on the face as a form of makeup. Yes, you heard that right. People are now applying it on their lips, eyelids and even applying it on their nose as freckles. Influencers and everyday users alike are trying it out, but before you jump on this trend, let’s look at the reality behind this so-called “beauty hack.” (Also read: Do you want to shine like Alia, Kareena this festive season? Try These Top Makeup Trends That Will Make You the Star of Every Party,
Risks of Viral Henna Makeup Trend
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Kashish Kalra, consultant and head of the department of dermatology at Max Smart Hospital, Saket, shared, “Viral henna makeup appears to be extremely harmless; However, beautiful temporary paintings on the skin can cause real harm to the skin. The culprit compound in henna is called PPD (para-phenylenediamine), which is often found in ‘black henna’, which is commonly used for temporary tattoos. PPD is an allergen that acts quite strongly, causing even more serious reactions such as redness and swelling, blisters, and in some cases, even scarring or keloids.
“Although natural henna is generally safe, allergic reactions have been reported from its use, especially on facial skin, which is thinner and more sensitive. Additionally, many pre-made ‘natural’ henna cones Contains harmful substances like lead, which further increases the risk of skin damage, be very careful, especially when applying it on the face,” says Dr. Kashish.
Dangerous effects of henna on skin
Bringing in her expertise, Dr. Varsha Reddy, dermatologist at Zennara Clinic, MBBS, MS Dermatology, shares, “The viral henna makeup trend has gained popularity on social media, but many people do not realize the potential risks involved. It is possible Natural henna, obtained from the Lawsonia plant, contains a compound called lawsone, which has antioxidant properties and imparts an orange-red color to the skin and hair through oxidation.
He adds, “However, most henna available in the market contain chemicals like paraphenylenediamine (PPD), a synthetic additive that creates a jet-black color when applied – unlike the orange-red color of natural henna. PPD in synthetic henna can cause severe “Can cause adverse reactions, including itching, burning, redness, blisters, and even bruising.”
“Natural henna is less likely to penetrate the skin and therefore does not usually cause these reactions, making it a safe choice, especially for people with sensitive skin. Unlike chemical-based henna, which can cause contact dermatitis Henna is plant-derived and generally well tolerated. It also has antioxidant, antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which help protect the skin from infection and inflammation. Natural henna is suitable for eyebrow coloring on sensitive skin, making it a safe choice for following trends.” Dr. Varsha.
