Holiday henna tattoos colour risk, warns nhf

The National Hairdressers' Federation is warning hairdressers to be aware that clients who have had holiday black-henna tattoos can develop an allergic reaction to hair colour.

So-called ‘black henna’ may contain PPD (paraphenylenediamine) and its use in temporary tattoos and in high concentrations is illegal in the EU.  But having a temporary tattoo applied on the beach or by the pool is often seen as a harmless bit of holiday fun. 

However, a return visit to the salon could spell disaster as clients can develop an allergy over time - meaning they are putting themselves at risk when booking in for a hair colour.

The NHF allergy alert test consultation cards, backed by Coversure’s Salonsure insurance policy, assesses risks client have been exposed to and whether an allergy alert test, or patch test,  is needed every time hair colour is applied.  One of the key risks is whether a client has had a ‘black henna’ temporary tattoo, because even if they didn’t immediately have a bad reaction, they can develop an allergy over time.   

NHF president, Agnes Leonard says: "When you’re talking to clients about their holiday plans, it’s worth warning them of the rising risks of ‘black henna’ temporary tattoos.  When they return from holiday, do check whether they’ve had a temporary tattoo before you go on to apply hair colour. Not only could they experience a severe reaction, but your insurance will also be invalidated if you haven’t checked and carried out a patch test if needed."

 

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