As a toxicologist with a focus on the safety of natural products, I can provide you with an informed perspective on the safety of henna.

Henna is a plant-based dye that has been used for centuries for body art and hair coloring. It is derived from the leaves of the henna plant (Lawsonia Inermis). When used in its pure, natural form, henna is generally considered safe for topical application on the skin. It has been used traditionally in various cultures for body art, particularly in the form of temporary tattoos known as mehndi.

However, it's important to note that not all products labeled as "henna" are safe. Some products may be contaminated with other chemicals, such as paraphenylenediamine (PPD), which is a common ingredient in permanent hair dyes and can cause severe allergic reactions and skin irritation. PPD is not safe for use on the skin and is illegal in many places for use in temporary skin decorations.

Additionally, some people may have an allergic reaction to natural henna as well. A patch test should be performed before applying henna to a larger area of the skin to check for any adverse reactions.

In summary, pure henna is considered safe for skin application, but it's crucial to avoid products that may contain harmful additives or contaminants. Always purchase henna from reputable sources and perform a patch test to ensure safety.

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The powder from the plant is very safe when applied to the skin of children, teens or adults since allergies to natural henna dye are extremely rare. ... Black henna is not from the henna plant at all but is a chemical called paraphenylenediamine or PPD.read more >>