Archive · 15 Sep 2026
Black Mehendi May Hide Chemicals That Burn Skin
Mehendi is usually made from natural henna.
Natural henna does not always create an instant-black stain.
Some very dark mehendi products may contain a chemical called PPD.
PPD can make the colour appear darker and develop faster.
However, it can seriously irritate some people’s skin.
Dermatologists are warning people about this possible danger.
The warning is especially relevant when people use mehendi during festivals and celebrations.
A dark stain may not always mean the product is purely natural.
Unusually dark or instant-black mehendi may not be made from natural henna alone.
Some products may contain paraphenylenediamine, or PPD, to create a darker, faster stain.
PPD can trigger serious skin reactions in some people.
Dermatologists are warning people about the risks of chemically darkened mehendi.
Black mehendi is often used during festivals and celebrations because it looks striking and lasts longer.
- Who
- Dermatologists are warning people who use dark mehendi products.
- What
- Some unusually dark or instant-black mehendi may contain PPD, which can cause serious skin reactions.
- When
- The warning concerns mehendi used during festivals and celebrations; no specific date is given.
- Where
- Not specified in the article.
- Why
- Chemical additives such as PPD can create a rapid, darker stain but may burn or seriously irritate the skin.
- Product
- Dark or instant-black mehendi
- Potential chemical
- Paraphenylenediamine (PPD)
- Typical effect
- A rapid, darker colour
- Main risk
- Serious skin reactions in some people
- Natural alternative
- Natural henna
- Common use
- Festivals and celebrations