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'Avoid black, white henna this Eid'

Abu Dhabi - Among other side effects of black henna are blisters, redness, cuts, loss of pigmentation and even permanent scarring.

Beauty salons in the Capital are getting increased footfalls as women folk celebrate Eid. However, salon owners and beauticians have warned customers against the use of white and black henna. 
Roshni Nijesh of Suzanna Ladies Beauty Salon said that she has started seeing a rise in the number of customers in the weekend. She, however, pointed out that some women still insisting on using black henna.
"Since we don't have any stock of black henna, it's fine with us. I am concerned about the lack of awareness of women about the substance which is banned in the UAE. I am told that it is carcinogenic and shouldn't be used at any beauty salons," she said on sidelines of an awareness campaign held at Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre.
"We have people coming from many nationalities as we have more than 100 designs to offer and all of them are safe. We use natural henna. People should also avoid fake products," said Roshni.
Kunjamma George of Silky Pink Touch Saloon said women mostly prefer Arabic design and it is fixation to the dark colour that has led to the instant popularity of black henna. She noted that Chinese henna, with unknown chemicals, is also a reason to worry. 
"I attend all awareness classes conducted by Abu Dhabi Municipality and pass on messages to my staff. We also relay the information to our customers. We use natural henna but people should be mindful of avoiding chemical substances. Fake tattoos can be harmful depending on skin and chemicals involved."
Kunjamma said she has customers from a young age to old as the henna design is a must-have during Eid celebrations. "I think some of the parlours do have black henna available with them."
Beauticians also cited examples of residents using black henna and getting severe burns. Among other side effects of black henna are blisters, redness, cuts, loss of pigmentation and even permanent scarring. 
Abu Dhabi Municipality has been carrying out regular checks at beauty salons for fake, expired and illegal products. 
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com