BHTTs (‘black henna’ temporary tattoos) provide a great way to enjoy temporary body art for those wanting the look of a tattoo without the permanence. That stain lasts from 2-4 weeks and gradually fades and disappears along with time.

However, the British Skin Foundation issues a warning to BHTTs users after research among dermatologists due to increasing consumers suffering from adverse reactions. And children are the majority among the victims. So the foundation suggests parents to against the use of such temporary tattoos.

The so-called ‘black henna’ derives from indigo (extracted from plants) or dye and chemicals with no indications. The products on the market usually contain a substance called para-phenylenediamine (PPD) which is found in hair dyes. It may lead to severe allergic reactions and permanent scarring when dying the skin in a short time. What’s worse, it can also leave the person with a lifelong sensitivity to PPD, which increases the risk of a severe allergic reaction when using hair dye in the future. Such allergic reaction may even threaten one’s life.

Cosmetic, Toiletry & Perfumery Association (CTPA) backs the warning that children should stay away from the tattoo products.

All tattoo ink and PMU products exported to the European Union comply with The Council of Europe Resolution ResAP(2008)1 for restrictions on heavy metals, PAHs, aromatic amines and pigments.

Reminder: tattoo ink for EU export shall be tested for regulation compliance to avoid losses caused by withdrawal or rejected at the border.