Natural henna is often used on the streets as a source for tattoos, does not cause us cause for concern.

Black henna, however, is also commonly used to make temporary black tattoos on the skin. THIS DOES CAUSE CONCERN. The black henna is typically applied with a brush through a stencil to give the desired design. Black Henna commonly contains a chemical known as para-phenylenediamine or PPD. This chemical can cause irritation of the skin and in some cases severe blistering and permanent scaring. Torbay Council in partnership with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), are taking a joint enforcement approach to the use of black henna within the Torbay area. Formal action will be taken against artists found to be using or suspected of using PPD containing black henna. This may include the seizure of materials and equipment used in the application of black henna, the serving of enforcement notices and/or the prosecution of artists.

During 2006, Black Henna was virtually stopped from being used in Torbay by this approach.

Should you wish to find out more about Black Henna please the Safety and Licensing Team.