Case of Dr S Kumar

blisters developed exactly on areas where the patient has applied black henna for decorating her hands. one day following application

Hi Sujith
Normal henna leaves an orange/orange-red colour or stain.It has been used for centuries as hair colour and for skin decoration in various cultures with out any problems .Allergy to natural henna is extremely rare.
There is no such thing as "Black Henna".PPD is added to give it an ebony colour.
FDA reccomends that PPD in hair dyes does not exceed a certain percentage. It is certainly not permitted in products coming in direct contact with skin in higher concentrations.
Unfortunately these health regulations are not followed in certain countries. Where is your practice located?
I suggest you Patch Test for PPD & if +ve warn the patient regarding future use of hair colour containing PPD.
Regards
Kiran (Submitted By: Dr Kiran Shahid)