Lead exposure from the use of Lawsonia inermis (Henna) in temporary paint-on-tattooing and hair dying

Karim N. Jallad, Cyntia Espada-Jallad

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

44 Scopus citations

Abstract

This study reports the evaluation of a number of spectroscopic techniques used in identifying and quantifying the presence of lead in twelve commercial and traditional henna samples. The lead levels found in henna were low with concentrations ranging from 2.29 ppm to 65.98 ppm. Henna is used as a traditional cosmetic and remedy in the Middle East, Far East, and North Africa. The very low concentrations of lead measured in these henna samples were reassuring; however, the cumulative effects of prolonged lead exposure may be of concern. Thus, the use of henna especially among children may constitute a public health risk.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)244-250
Number of pages7
JournalScience of the Total Environment
Volume397
Issue number1-3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jul 2008

Keywords

  • Henna
  • Horsetail
  • Lawsonia inermis
  • Lead exposure
  • Toxicity

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