Mehndi MadnessTM Blog
Krysteen
Nowadays, the US does a good job of keeping PPD out of consumers hands. PPD stands for Paraphenylenediamine, which is a chemical substance that is commonly found in permanent hair dyes and used to make “Black Henna.” Black Henna is an unnatural Henna, that is mixed with Paraphenylenediamine (PPD), and can cause blistering, open sores, and scarring.
Many American Henna Artists are well aware not to use this harmful product and instead use Jauga which is an all-natural, temporary, and safe product. Jagua is a fruit from the Amazon and stains the skin just like Henna by leaving the paste on for a few hours. Also, like Henna, Jagua stains the skin up to a couple weeks, but instead of a red brown color it is a blue-ish, black color.
It is imperative that the customer asked their Henna Artist about the products they are using and putting on the body and skin. It’s important for the client to know that the product is safe, and know the possible reactions and allergies the product can cause no matter what country they’re in.
This is why Jagua is a perfect alternative to the harmful chemicals used to get the look of a black Henna tattoo; it has the color desired without the harm and potential reactions to the body and skin.
Henna and Jagua have beautiful histories and traditions surrounding the art and making sure your local Henna Artist is using safe products keeps Henna a beautiful tradition. As a customer, all you have to do it ask.
Do you mix your own paste?
Are you using 100% natural henna powder?
Are the ingredients you mix with your henna powder 100% natural?
And they should be willing to tell you every ingredient they use so you can decide if their henna will be a good fit for you.
Below is a link to an article of British tourists in Egypt and their reaction to PPD.
https://www.alaraby.co.uk/english/news/2019/11/13/boys-left-scarred-after-using-black-henna-in-egypt
