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Mehendi on the face! How the Viral Henna Makeup Trend Could Be Harming Your Skin; Doctors warn of dangerous side effects | Fashion trends

Makeup trends come and go at lightning speed, especially as social media creates new, sometimes bizarre beauty craze. The latest on Instagram? Henna makeup! Henna, traditionally popular for intricate hand drawings, is now also finding its way onto faces as makeup. Yes, you heard that right. Now people apply it to their lips and eyelids and even dot it as freckles on their nose. Influencers and everyday users alike are trying it out, but before you jump in on this trend, let's address 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 any party)

Risks of a viral henna makeup trend

Viral Henna Makeup Trend May Cause Skin Damage From Harmful Chemicals (Instagram)

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Kashish Kalra, Head of Dermatology Department and Consultant at Max Smart Hospital, Saket: “The viral henna makeup seems extremely harmless; However, the quite beautiful temporary paintings on the skin can really harm the skin. The responsible compound in henna is called PPD (paraphenylenediamine) and is commonly found in “black henna,” which is often used for temporary tattoos. PPD is an allergen that is quite potent and causes even more critical reactions such as redness and swelling, blistering and in some cases even scarring or keloids.”

“While natural henna is generally safer, allergic reactions have also been reported when using it, particularly on facial skin, which is thinner and more sensitive. Additionally, many pre-made “natural” henna cones contain harmful substances like lead, further increasing exposure. “Be very careful, especially when applying it to the face,” says Dr. Kashish.

Dangerous effects of henna on the skin

Dr. Sharing her expertise, Varsha Reddy, Dermatologist at Zennara Clinics, MBBS, MS-Dermatology, shared, “The viral henna makeup trend has gained popularity on social media but many are unaware of the potential associated with it Risks may not be aware.” Natural henna, derived from the lawsonia plant, contains the compound lawsone, which has antioxidant properties and gives skin and hair an orange-red color through oxidation.”

She added: “However, much of the henna available on the market contains chemicals such as paraphenylenediamine (PPD), a synthetic additive that produces a deep black color when applied – as opposed to the orange-red hue of natural henna. PPD in synthetic henna can cause serious side effects such as itching, burning, redness, blisters and even scarring.”

“Natural henna penetrates the skin less easily and therefore does not typically cause such reactions, making it a safer alternative, especially for people with sensitive skin. Unlike chemical henna, which can cause contact dermatitis, natural henna is plant-based.” “It also has antioxidant, antimicrobial and antifungal properties and helps protect the skin from infection and inflammation. It is suitable for eyebrow coloring on sensitive skin, making it a safer choice for those who follow trends.” Varsha.

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