Chemical Based Henna Products Causing Dermatitis in Females

KARACHI- Senior Skin Specialist and Chief Medical Officer of Institute of Skin Diseases, Karachi, Dr. Qamar Iqbal Chandio warned regarding the application of substandard Henna (Mehndi) products, as they may disfigure the skin of girls and women owing to skin sensitivity.

He mentioned as safe Henna products seem to be, they may cause side effects such as inflammation of the skin (dermatitis) including redness, itching, burning, swelling, scaling, blisters, and scarring of the skin. He lead everyone’s attention towards some of the locally manufactured henna of compromised quality, that causes serious dermatitis among females.

According to his research, some Henna products were manufactured with hydrochloric acid, acetic acid and other chemicals to achieve that dark color, but sometimes due to one’s sensitive skin, a serious reaction could take place within a few hours of application, sometimes prove to be chronic. This condition could leave spots on both hands and feet if not treated properly.

Women who dye their hair with chemical treated Henna may face reaction too.

Furthermore, he explained that, Henna Dermatitis is not a disease but a reaction of skin which occurs in females who apply chemically manufactured Henna in Pakistan.

He strongly urged all the women to avoid such henna products to prevent acquiring dermatitis and should always conduct a patch test before completely applying the product on hands, feet and hair.

For those who face irritation or any associated signs of Dermatitis should sprinkle cool water on the affected parts and immediately consult a skin specialist to avoid further complications.

Some Henna products that are manufactured in Dadu, Naushahro Feroze and Mehar are best for applying on skin, due to their good quality.

Moreover, Dr. Qamar Chandio urged the concerned authorities to launch a crackdown against manufacturers and sellers of chemical based henna products to save females from acquiring serious skin allergies. He also advised women to always purchase products of good quality to prevent reactions or allergies.