If you or your child is wearing a temporary tattoo, you might want to consider washing it off. Health Canada has issued a warning for temporary tattoo ink and paste known as black henna.

Black henna contains an ingredient called paraphenylenediamine (PPD) that could cause allergic reactions including red skin rashes, blisters, and scarring. Allergic reactions to PPD could also lead to sensitivity to other products such as hair dye, sunblock, and some types of black clothing.

Health Canada officials say PPD is an acceptable ingredient when used correctly, for example in products that do not come in contact with skin for long periods of time. Hair dye made with the product is still considered safe.

Health Canada officials advise people to ask vendors at amusement parks, fairs, and markets to confirm black henna isn't used in the ink of temporary tattoos. PPD may be used in products that are jet black in colour, last one to three weeks without fading, or have instructions to be removed within an hour.

Anyone who suspects a local vendor is using the product is asked to call the Manitoba product safety office for Health Canada at (204) 983-5490 or emailing mb_prodsafe@hc-sc.gc.ca.