Latest news with #Lawsoniainermis
The Citizen
4 days ago
- Health
- The Citizen
7 plant-based hair dyes to try at home
By embracing plant-based dyes and chemical-free products, we can enjoy vibrant, beautiful hair without compromising on our well-being or the planet. Several of these natural ingredients have been used for centuries to achieve vibrant and lasting colour. Here are some of the most popular methods, thanks to Wellness Warehouse: Henna Derived from the leaves of the Lawsonia inermis plant, henna is a widely celebrated natural dye. It imparts a rich red-orange hue and is often mixed with other ingredients to achieve various shades. Henna also conditions the hair, leaving it soft and shiny. Indigo When used in combination with henna, indigo powder can create darker shades like brown and black. Indigo is derived from the Indigofera tinctoria plant and is a natural way to achieve cooler tones without resorting to chemical dyes. Cassia Obovata Often referred to as 'neutral henna,' cassia obovata doesn't add much colour to the hair, but enhances golden hues, making it ideal for those with blonde or light hair. It also improves hair health by strengthening and conditioning. Beetroot Juice Beetroot juice is a surprisingly fantastic natural ingredient for those looking for a reddish tint. It's often mixed with other natural dyes or conditioners to achieve a vibrant yet subtle red glow. Chamomile Chamomile flowers are known for their gentle lightening properties. Chamomile tea or extract can be applied to the hair to bring out golden tones, particularly in lighter shades. Coffee & Black Tea For deeper brown tones, coffee and black tea can be excellent options. These common household items can darken hair naturally and enhance shine. Amla (Indian Gooseberry) Amla powder not only helps to maintain darker tones when mixed with henna, but also promotes healthy hair growth. Its rich vitamin C content nourishes the scalp and prevents premature greying. Before you start on your plant-based hair colour journey, make sure to do a patch test first to rule out any allergies or sensitivities. Once you've got the all-clear, remember to: Prep Hair: Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo to remove oils and residues, allowing the colour to adhere better. Be Patient: Natural dyes may take longer to develop compared to synthetic options, but the results are worth the wait. Maintain: Use sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner to preserve your natural colour for longer. For more on beauty, visit Get It Magazine.
The Hindu
02-05-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
When festive fun can turn hazardous: the hidden dangers of adulterated henna
For centuries, mehendi has been an essential part of Indian celebrations, symbolising joy and auspicious beginnings at weddings and festivals. Traditionally made from the crushed leaves of the Lawsonia inermis plant, natural mehendi or henna, has been valued for its cooling properties and the gentle, reddish-brown stain it imparts. However, a growing body of reports about burns, allergic reactions, and even long-term skin damage after mehendi application has raised an important question: is all mehendi truly safe today? The problem with modern mehendi To meet the rising demand for faster, darker stains, many commercially available mehendi products are now mixed with additives and chemicals. One such chemical is as para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a synthetic compound used to intensify and quicken colour development, producing a near-black stain within hours. 'Natural henna is generally safe and gives a brown to red color. But most commercially available mehendi is adulterated with PPD,' explains D. Dinesh Kumar, president of the Tamil Nadu branch of the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL) and chief dermatologist at Dr. Dinesh Skin & Hair Clinic, Chennai. 'PPD can cause severe allergic reactions, leading to burns, blisters, and long-term skin sensitisation. While permitted in controlled concentrations for use in hair dyes under international regulations, it is not approved for direct application on the skin. When mixed into mehendi, often without disclosure, it turns a traditionally safe cosmetic into a potential hazard.' Allergic reactions and burns When adulterated mehendi containing PPD is applied to the skin, the chemical can rapidly penetrate the outer barrier and provoke a delayed hypersensitivity reaction — marked by a severe immune response. In susceptible individuals, this manifests as intense itching and burning within hours of application, swelling, redness, and inflammation along the design, formation of fluid-filled blisters or ulcers. In severe cases, permanent scarring and pigment changes can occur. The risk is higher in people with pre-existing skin conditions like eczema, or those with repeated exposure to cosmetic allergens. 'Even someone who has used mehendi safely for years can suddenly develop an allergy if exposed to adulterated products,' says Dr. Dinesh. This phenomenon, known as sensitisation, means the immune system becomes primed to overreact to the chemical after initial exposure. Once sensitised to PPD, individuals are at lifelong risk of reacting not only to henna but also to related chemicals in hair dyes, black clothing dyes, and even certain types of rubber or adhesives. How to recognise unsafe mehendi Spotting chemical-laced mehendi can be difficult, but there are signs consumers can look out for in products that promise instant dark color. Natural henna stains take 24–48 hours to fully darken from orange to deep brown. Black or very dark stains appearing within 1–2 hours are suspicious. A chemical odour can be a tell-tale sign, as pure henna has an earthy, grassy aroma. A strong chemical or ammonia-like smell indicates chemical contamination. Also, read label warnings: exercise caution if the cone or packet promotes 'instant color,' 'dark black color,' or lacks a full ingredient list. Choosing organic-certified henna powders or cones from reputable brands can reduce risk, but even then, vigilance is key. Performing a patch test is a simple but crucial step to prevent adverse reactions. Dr. Dinesh recommends: 'Apply a small amount of henna on the inner arm or behind the ear. Monitor for any redness, itching, or discomfort over 48 hours. If there is no reaction, it is generally safe to proceed.' Those with known allergies, sensitive skin, or a history of eczema should be especially cautious and preferably consult a dermatologist before application. What to do if a reaction occurs If symptoms like burning, redness, or blistering develop after applying mehendi, remove the paste immediately using lukewarm water and mild soap. Avoid scrubbing the affected area aggressively and instead, gently cleanse it. Apply a cool compress to help soothe any inflammation. Refrain from using over-the-counter ointments without medical advice. It is important to consult a dermatologist promptly, especially if blisters, peeling, or a widespread rash occurs. Early medical intervention by seeking out a qualified dermatologist can prevent complications like secondary bacterial infections and reduce the risk of lasting pigmentation changes. Repeated exposure to PPD-containing mehendi does not just cause short-term discomfort. 'Lifelong sensitisation to PPD is likely after an acute reaction,' warns Dr. Dinesh. Over time, this can lead to itchy and flaky skin due to chronic eczema, permanent pigmentation changes (hypo- or hyperpigmentation) and cross-reactivity with other chemicals, complicating future cosmetic or dermatological treatments In severe cases, individuals may find themselves unable to use not just hair dyes, but everyday products like colored textiles or adhesives, significantly impacting their quality of life. Being aware is key The cultural significance of mehendi is undeniable, but safeguarding health must take precedence over aesthetic appeal. Some steps in this direction include opting for natural henna powders prepared freshly with lemon juice or tea water at home, buying only from trusted sources that disclose full ingredients, avoiding any product labeled 'black henna' or 'instant color' and making sure we educate those we know about the risks associated with adulterated mehendi, especially in community settings like weddings or fairs. Given that some cosmetic products may contain potentially harmful additives, making informed choices and maintaining strong regulatory oversight are important for consumer safety. The beauty of mehendi lies not just in its intricate patterns, but also in the centuries-old tradition of natural, mindful artistry. By returning to its authentic roots, we can ensure that mehendi continues to be a safe and joyous part of our celebrations (Dr. Monisha Madhumita is Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Saveetha Medical College, Chennai.
