Dh2,000 fine for salons using black henna in Dubai

Using black henna can cause skin burns.

Dubai Municipality has warned salons from using black henna to avoid facing a Dh2,000 fine.
The civic body has placed warning signs in salons and women's beauty centers to warn about the consequences of providing homecare services and using substances like the black henna, which can cause skin burns.
Redha Salman, director of the health and safety department, said 21 qualified inspectors throughout different shifts monitor salons and the products used inside the salon.
"When the municipality receives complaints about violations, secret women inspectors are sent to investigate," said Salman.
Beauty centers that use black henna or any unapproved products are fined Dh2,000 and the products are immediately confiscated. If the action is repeated, the beauty center will be closed temporarily.
"Many salons mix the black henna with harmful chemicals used in the hair dye to give it a long lasting color, which can cause burns and allergies among customers," said Salman.
He urged residents to call 800900 for complaints. Once a product is caught, a sample is sent to Dubai Central lab for testing.
An owner of a salon in Dubai, who refused to be named, told Khaleej Times that the civic body often distributes posters and warning signs against black henna. "The black henna is often mixed with petroleum and other chemicals, which is why we never trust to buy it from any supplier," the owner said.
The owner confirmed that salons are informed that black henna is completely banned in Dubai.
The danger behind black henna
Dr Anwar Alhammadi, president of Emirates Dermatology Society, said burns and allergic reactions to henna is a common problem witnessed in clinics due to the use of an allergen called paraphenylenediamine (PPD), a chemical substance widely used in hair dye that prompts such reactions.
"We don't recommend black henna in beauty salons because in most cases, the chemical is added for the henna to last for a longer time. It is better to be avoided," said Alhammadi.
He noted that before applying henna, women are advised to test a small area first to ensure they aren't being lured into a chemical that can develop a harmful reaction on their skin.
"In severe cases, people experience eye swelling and breathing difficulties usually treated by oral steroids. Treatment depends on the reaction from applying topical steroid creams or giving anti-allergic pills," said Alhammadi.
Chemicals used to darken henna, that can cause dangerous reactions and burn the skin, have been banned in the emirate.
sherouk@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai