Assemblyman Jim Whelan

WHELAN: MOVES TO OUTLAW DANGEROUS HENNA TATTOOS
Temporary with Toxic Inks Tattoos May Cause Scarring, Permanent Injuries

(TRENTON) - Assemblyman Jim Whelan today announced the introduction of legislation that would make it unlawful for body art studios to apply "henna" tattoos containing para-phelylendiamine (PPD), a chemical that can cause scarring and other disfiguring skin injuries.
"Henna tattoos are a prominent feature on the boardwalk and are popular with young children at the beach who are looking for quick and painless souvenir," said Whelan (D-Atlantic). "Unfortunately, some of these tattoos can cause serious allergic reactions and even permanent scarring of the skin. We want to make sure that children and parents remember their time at the shore. A life long scar is not what I have in mind."

Henna, a flowering shrub found in subtropical Africa, southern Asia and northern Australia has been used in body art and tattoos for centuries. Body art containing Henna ink is distinguished by its reddish-brown color and typically last for up to two weeks. Recently Henna artists have begun using "black" and "blue" ink, which are becoming popular and last longer to achieve the desired color; however artists are mixing PPD with the Henna ink.

Possible long-term side effects of temporary tattoos which contain PPD include: severe dermatitis; eye irritation and tearing; asthmas; gastritis; renal failure; vertigo; tremors; convulsions; and coma.

"Families who vacation at the shore need to be made aware of the possible adverse effects of these 'temporary' tattoos," said Whelan. "This is a real health concern and we need to ensure that these artists do not accidentally turn a wonderful day at the beach into a trip to the emergency room."

The legislation would punish artist found to be using PPD in their mixtures up to $10,000 for their first offense and up to $20,000 for second and any subsequent offenses.

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For Release:
February 26, 2007

Contact:
Assemblyman Jim Whelan
P: (609) 383-1388