Temporary tattoos known as “decal” tattoos can potentially be harmful. The dyes used in applications known as henna and black henna are used to create the designs. Tattoos are drawn anywhere on the body and can last up to two weeks, Children and teenagers also get these temporary tattoos in increasing numbers, they are not just for adults.
Concerning Applications of Tattoos
The application to place a henna tattoo varies. Some have a removable backing that adheres to the skin with moisture, usually adding water to it, and then applying it to the skin. Decal tattoos will adhere to the skin. Some companies sell the decals and state that they can be made with any inkjet, or laser printers ink and then applied to the skin. That sounds like a warning sign to be aware of, especially if you child is ordering from a company like this. Printer ink has a lot of chemicals in it and is not an FDA- approved cosmetic. One such company that sells this is “Decalpaper” https://www.decalpaper.com/category-s/8.htm
Allergic Reaction Warnings
An adhesive tattoo may create a partial barrier between the skin and the image dye. Dyes used that are not approved by the FDA for cosmetic uses are a major concern. There could be an alarming allergic reaction, as henna dyes are not approved for cosmetic use under FDA regulations.
Since henna is naturally an orangey brown, other dyes can be infused with it to make other colors. These colors are known as black and blue henna. Black and blue henna contains PPD (p-Phenylenediamine), and it permitted for use as a hair dye, but not for skin application.
The PPD dyes will show an immediate color on the skin that is more deep and rich in hue. The henna dyes usually take time to deepen, about 2- 4 days. Both will last 2-6 weeks depending on washing methods.
Henna dyes may not cause as much of an allergic reaction as PPD dyes. In small children it can cause a hemolytic seizure event, if the child has red blood cell enzyme deficiency. If the PPD dye causes an allergic reaction, the skin has the possibility of oozing sores and the potential to leave scars on the skin. If this occurs, seek immediate attention to your doctor or emergency room.
Labeling Concerns:
Under the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA), all ingredients on the labels of these products sold to consumers must be visible but is not required if a salon professional is performing the application. County fairs and street vendors offering these applications do not have to comply with the labeling of ingredients. Many vendors are not aware of the harmful ingredients and allergic reactions that may occur with the tattoos they are applying on one’s skin.
People getting permanent lip, eyebrow and eyeliner tattoos should address their concerns with their salon’s cosmetologist.
Source of information were taken from FDA.gov U.S Food and Drug Administration.
About the Author: Leslie Cohen is Managing Editor for Cweb.com, and Managing Creative Director for iParis, Paris Jewelry and Elle Jewelers. She is also a fashion blogger at https://popfashionnewsblog.wordpress.com/
Photo credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/philipnelson/5642320509
