You guys already know about the differences between natural henna (which is all I use!) and harmful chemical PPD so-called “black henna”, right?

This recently aired bit from WPRI has some good info on why you should never let PPD touch your skin, but takes its sweet time in getting to really distinguishing between chemical garbage and natural henna. This seems to be the trend with most of the features that have been done since the FDA very recently put out a press release warning consumers against “black henna”. There’s good information in there, but if you don’t listen/read very carefully, you could be left thinking that all henna is suspect. There are two types of “henna” that you should be concerned about – “black henna” and chemical “henna” – in both cases, it is NOT the natural dye molecule from the henna plant that is dying your skin, but rather a chemical additive.

(Why is “black henna” in quotes in everything I write here? Because if it is black, it is NOT HENNA…)

As long as you know your artist is using natural henna, please continue to get henna with confidence! Always ask your artist what is in their paste. My ingredients are ALWAYS posted on my table-top signs, when I have them, or I will happily list them upon request whenever I have not brought the signs.

It is always important to go to a henna artist you trust, who you know uses natural henna. Read the reviews of their business. Ask them questions. Natural henna artists are VERY giving with their information, and will happily share their recipe with you. Henna recipes are not a secret at all, and any artist should happily disclose their recipe unless they feel they have something to hide….

http://www.wpri.com/web/wpri/dpp/rhode_show/rhode-show-fda-issues-temporary-tattoo-warning-susan-hogan

One last note – if your news organization would like to have a much more informed opinion, from someone who specializes in henna and has spent years, not days since the FDA press release, studying natural henna and advocating against the use of chemical based imposters…. you know where to find me!!