Mind that mehndi

Dye mixed in mehndi can not only cause allergic reactions but may also increase a woman’s chances of developing leukaemia.

Mehndi is traditional and looks beautiful, too. But a recent study by researchers at a UAE University states that women are twice more prone to developing leukaemia as men, and the cause could be the use of synthetic forms of henna dye.

What’s on your hand?
Most henna products available in the market have synthetic colours mixed in them. These chemicals can affect both skin and hair. “It is not uncommon to spot people who’ve allergies and rashes after henna application on their hands. The purpose behind mixing the chemicals in henna is to get a richer colour,” says Anuradha Chetyala, director, Anoo’s Beauty Salon and Clinic. “There are mehndi appliers in every market and you cannot trust what all they use. One needs to go to a reputed salon for henna application, on head or hand, and check their product for 100 per cent purity,” says beauty expert Ambika Pillai. “Henna can easily be prepared at home. But people do not have the time,” says Chetyala. For example, one can mix clove oil, coffee or tea decoction and lime juice with henna for best results.