Mehandi Employees’ Favorite Products

 

One of the great things about working for Mehandi is that we, as employees, really do love the products. We use them at home every day. Nearly all of us use Ancient Sunrise® Henna for Hair products to dye and/or condition our hair. We use Ancient Sunrise® hair care and body care products in our daily routines. Many of us use Becoming Moonlight® body art products. Several Mehandi employees are licensed cosmetologists and/or body artists who use the products professionally. We also love to recommend products to our friends and family, and sometimes to complete strangers. Anyone who has used Ancient Sunrise® Henna for Hair long enough knows how common it is to be stopped in public by people admiring their hair. We’ll even keep business cards on hand for this very reason.

I had been using Ancient Sunrise® Henna for Hair for several years before I began working for the company. My enthusiasm for the products was one of the reasons I decided to apply. When I was a Customer Service representative, I loved that could recommend products I genuinely believed in. I never felt like I was pressured to “get a sale” or to talk up a product that I didn’t feel was great. It was more like I was getting paid to teach people about an awesome part of my own life. Now, I continue to do so through the blogs.

I asked my coworkers to list their favorite products from Mehandi.com and to explain why they love them. This article features our responses. It was interesting to see how our top picks differed depending on our own hair, skin, and professional needs.

 Click on the names of the products to find them at Mehandi.com. We hope you fall in love with them, too!

 

 

Rebecca

Writer for AncientSunrise.Blog and BecomingMoonlight.Blog

Body Artist

 

 

Ancient Sunrise® Zizyphus and Juniper Shampoo Bar. This has been my go-to shampoo bar for a couple of years. It cleanses well and leaves my hair clean and conditioned without feeling too heavy. I love that one bar lasts for several months.

Ancient Sunrise® Amla Powder. I use it as a face mask about once a week. It helps to fight my acne, and exfoliate away dry skin. My skin looks more awake and feels smooth after I use an amla mask.

(To learn how to use amla as a skin treatment, click here)

Ancient Sunrise® Rainwash Mineral Treatment. It never fails to perk my hair up. I use it before henna treatments and whenever my hair feels a little unmanageable and dull. It makes my hair soft again.

Becoming Moonlight® Gilding Paste. It is easy to use, creates beautifully fine lines for intricate designs, and I love that I can use a variety of colors and finishes over it for a wide range of looks.

Becoming Moonlight® Gilding Powder in Bridal Gold. The color is just gorgeous. It's one of my favorites to use when doing body art, and it compliments a variety of skin tones beautifully. Also works well as a subtle highlighting powder or eyeshadow. All of the gilding powders are extremely fine, so they are easy to use and a little goes a long way.

 

 

 

Liz

Customer Service Representative

Shipping Department

 

Ancient Sunrise® Rainwash Mineral Treatment. Makes my hair soft and more manageable.

Ancient Sunrise® Vetiver Shaving Soap. I love shaving my legs with the shaving soap. My legs are smooth and moisturized. I like that they have no artificial fragrance in them.

Ancient Sunrise® Amla Shampoo Bar. It removes the oils on my hair leaving it looking great. ​​ I don't need to use as much conditioner now. You can also use it as an exfoliating body bar.

Ancient Sunrise® Mango Seed Butter. I use this year product year round, it keeps my feet and hands from cracking. The butter absorbs quickly into the skin, without feeling greasy. I like that the scent is not overpowering.

Ancient Sunrise® Nettle, Comfrey, and Peppermint Shampoo Bar. My boyfriend Pete, loves this shampoo bar! This is the only dandruff shampoo that works for him.

 

 

Maria

Licensed Cosmetologist

Customer Service Supervisor

Ancient Sunrise Educator

Social Media Coordinator

 

 

Ancient Sunrise® Rainwash Mineral Treatment is gentle enough for my kid with sensitive skin to use. It makes a great alternative to a clarifying shampoo!

Ancient Sunrise® Rajasthani Twilight Henna and Ancient Sunrise® Zekhara Indigo are so easy to use and great for the hair. I've never seen hair look so good after being colored! The fact that fading doesn't occur is a huge bonus!

The Mehron “Paradise” 30-Color Pallet allows my creativity to be limitless! I can take it with me anywhere and use it for the simplest design or use it for something complex. This is a must have for anyone who has an artistic bone in their body.

Becoming Moonlight Glitters are rad. I love these because I can get a variety of shades of shine to suit my mood. My current fave is Garnet.

 

I honestly could go on and on with my favorite products we carry. ​​ I love all the things!

 

 

 

Alex

Shop Supervisor for The Empire of Magical Thought

Body Artist

 

Ancient Sunrise® Zizyphus Spina Christi Powder. It makes my hair more manageable and reduces the amount of random flyaway hairs, it's easy to use and in general just makes my hair look better.

(To learn more about Zizyphus, click here.)

Becoming Moonlight® Gilding Powder as eyeshadow. The range of colors is amazing and I never fail to get compliments on my eye makeup when I use them.

Becoming Moonlight® Gilding Paste. It is great for extremely detailed work, it can be applied pretty much anywhere (given common sense) the mica and glitter colors are amazing, and I like that there is the choice between mica and glitter to suit the kind of design you are going for.

(To learn about how to use Becoming Moonlight® Gilding Paste, read this article and visit www.becomingmoonlight.com)

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Feel free to comment below to let us know your favorite Mehandi products! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact Customer Service at www.Mehandi.com.

What’s It Like Working for Mehandi.com?

 

 

Writer’s Note

Ask any employee here, and they’ll agree that there is no company quite like Mehandi. Probably because there is no boss quite like Catherine Cartwright-Jones, PhD.. I have worked for Mehandi and our branches for almost three years now, and it is truly wonderful and different. Before starting the blogs this past summer, and moving to Montreal, Quebec, I was part of the Customer Service team in the main office, worked at our brick-and-mortar store, Empire, and was a “body art specialist” for the company. Before that, I was a customer who loved the products.

What makes this company different is the openness and flexibility. Part of it is cross-training, and part of it is that the company recognizes staff’s talents and interests, encouraging them to take on new roles. If I were to write down my job description, it would be long and strange. When people asked me what I did, I’d stop for several seconds, because “Customer service for an online store” did not capture it in the very least. I’d need an hour to give it justice, starting by describing Catherine’s research on henna for hair, the dangers of PPD, and the use of body art throughout history and around the world... and how the company came about in relation to that research… and how we didn’t just sell things, but also provided information and support… and yeah I was on the phone a lot, but sometimes I was covering myself or others in glitter… and sometimes I was doing research… and sometimes I was playing with puppets.

Now, I’m here in my office, in my apartment hundreds of miles away from Kent, Ohio, but still very much connected to the company through the magic of the internet. For this article, I drew on my own experiences, and asked my co-workers to provide their own thoughts. One thing becomes very clear: It’s all about the people.

 

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The Warehouse

First, I’d like to take you on a descriptive journey through the little blue building we call The Warehouse. Just off the highway, on Tallmadge Road, in Kent, Ohio, down a gravel driveway, hidden behind another industrial building, there is a place where magic happens on the daily. There are hummingbird feeders attached to the windows. Jenny the cat, who has been out stalking some small thing, is rolling on the sidewalk leading up to the door.

 

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The warehouse. Photo credit: Roy Jones

 

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Walk inside, and you are greeted with a swirl of scents. It has the classic odors of a warehouse and office space, with its notes of cement, dust, and cardboard. Then, you smell plant powders and spices. Shampoo and soap bars. Incense, which many employees burn in their offices. Burnt sage, if some negative energy had to be dispelled recently. If Lynnette, head of Assembly, has been packaging essential oils, that heady smell hits you square in the nose.

You are standing in the Assembly room. Here, packets are labeled, fruit acid powders are measured and bagged, and henna-for-hair kits are put together. To the right, Lynnette’s office is dimly lit with hanging lamps and smells like a temple. Her office is also the home of one of our printers, whom we call Hal. Hal prints our labels and other things needed for assembly. Val is the other printer.

Walk forward into the next room, and you are in Packing and Shipping. The walls are lined with shelves holding henna for hair kits and big baskets of individual plant dye powder packets. There are drawers full of shampoo bars, soap bars, and smaller items. There are wide tables where Michelle or Melissa are stacking shallow black bins, each containing the contents of an order ready to be packed and shipped. They double-check the order form, and initial it. When an order gets packed, it’s checked and initialed again before the box is taped up. Carl the cat is most likely snoozing under the shipping table.

 

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Melissa and Carl wait for the mail truck.

 

 

Mehandi.com. shipping room – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA

The kitchen is on the left side. There is a counter, a sink, a coffee maker, several teapots and mugs, a refrigerator, and a set of plastic drawers packed with snacks, teas, and coffee.

Through the door straight ahead is Customer Service. Be quiet and keep the door closed. Here are several desks with computers, each area personalized by each customer service representative. The walls are covered with fabric tapestries, hair swatches, letters and photos from happy customers, and cheat-sheets for item codes, mix ratios, and other important information. The CSRs are chatting through their headsets and typing on their keyboards. If the phones are slower, they are answering emails, or responding to posts on our Facebook pages.

A door on the other side of the Customer Service office leads to a hallway. Here are doors to the offices of the administrative positions. Roy Jones, Catherine’s husband, is the man behind anything having to do with technology. He also does the photography for promotional materials. His office is tech’d out and filled with books about computer systems and coding. Other administrative positions have offices in this hallway, as well. Val, our other printer, spits out customer order sheets in the corner.

The Packing and Shipping room is also attached to the warehouse proper, as well as the break room. The warehouse contains huge pallets of boxes filled with henna, indigo, and other plant powders, which we ship from India several times a year. It is dark, quiet, and cool.

The break room is a wide space that holds a large, comfy couch, shelves of packaging materials and office supplies, and a dedicated space for photography. Someone may be having lunch or catching a quick nap while others prepare a body art piece for shooting. There is a shelf full of fabrics and props. The couch is eternally covered in glitter. This is where we have company meetings. Some of the staff will pile on the couch, others will bring in their chairs, and others sit on the floor. The cats will wander from person to person, demanding their due pats.

 

Mehandi.com, the “photo studio” – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA

There are no cubicles here. The furniture is a mix-and-match of used and re-purposed items. There are several very old, very pretty rugs. The whole place looks like it is run by a hippie who went into business, and who has a penchant for digging through Craigslist for antique furniture. Because maybe it is. Catherine works from The Shed, her office at her home, and pops in from time to time. But her presence here is always clear. The warehouse is a home, and the people are a family. We joked among ourselves that the type of person to work here is always a little weird, and maybe you have to be, to be this passionate about something like henna.

 

Rumple guards the entrance to The Shed. Here is where Catherine completed her PhD Disseration.

 

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What is Mehandi.com?

Mehandi is the online store for Ancient Sunrise® hair and skin products, and Becoming Moonlight® body art products. It is the result of years of research by Catherine Cartwright-Jones, PhD., who had an interest in providing safe alternatives to commercial hair dye, and providing research-based information on henna. The company’s origins go back to the Henna Page Forums of the mid-to-late 1990s, when henna began to gain popularity in the Western world.

Our plant powders are tested by an independent lab to ensure purity. Our Becoming Moonlight® Gilding Paste is the first skin-safe adhesive to be formulated specifically for body artists wishing to create “white henna,” and similar designs. We ship across the globe. HennaforHair.com, Hennapage.com, Tapdancinglizard.com, and our blogs continue to publish scholarly and research-based information that is free to the public.

Catherine’s vision went beyond selling a product. It was about educating the consumer and shedding light on safe, effective methods of hair care and body art. Catherine has spoken to the FDA and to cosmetic giants about the epidemic of para-phenylinedyamine (PPD) sensitization. She hopes to influence change in the use of PPD in hair dyes, and to bring henna for hair into the mainstream. Mehandi.com has tens of thousands of customers who now happily color their hair without risks of allergic reaction or hair damage.

 

 

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Our new and improved website launched in 2017.

 

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Happy Staff = Happy Customers

Catherine firmly believes that the success of the company depends on the way her employees are treated. She knows that work can be stressful, and that the staff spends much of their time at The Warehouse. Therefore, work should be a comfortable and enjoyable place. Our kitchen is stocked with coffees, teas, and healthy snacks. There is a request sheet that is filled regularly. Out of chocolate-covered almonds? Put it on the list. Snacks are part of the company’s budget. Roy regularly treats the staff to lunch. If a company meeting is happening, there will probably be food.

In addition to staying well-fed, we are quite comfortable. There is no dress-code policy. Staff are encouraged to wear whatever is most comfortable for them, whether it is jeans, pajama pants, or flowing skirts. Some shuffle around in fluffy slippers. There are a number of seat options available, so whether a person prefers a swiveling office chair or a yoga ball, there is something that will work. The large sofa in the break room is great for naps. The two office cats, Carl and Jenny, who keep us company, provide stress-relief, and lie on our keyboards at inopportune times.

 

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Jenny is very good at getting in the way. Photo credit: Elizabeth Nissel.

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Customer Service

Our commitment to customer service is what makes this company great, as well as unique. I don’t mean it in that cheesy-commercial-slogan kind of way. Catherine understood that the knowledge of using henna was once commonplace, because it was shared among family and friends. In the areas where henna was traditionally used, men and women went to their respective public bathhouses, communal spaces to wash, groom, and interact with others. People washed each other’s bodies, hennaed each other’s hair, hands, and feet, and shared grooming tips. Now that personal hygiene has moved to the privacy of individual homes, Catherine understood that, in order for this knowledge to be spread again, she had to create a modern version of this community.

 

 

 

 

It starts with the customer service team. Each new representative takes the time to read the Ancient Sunrise Henna for Hair E-book and many other resources before being able to work one-on-one with customers. The other team members help each other to make sure that the info they are giving out stays accurate. When needed, the staff re-read material and find new articles to share with one another to keep their knowledge fresh. New members are quizzed on their knowledge by their co-workers. They role-play potential phone calls, and give constructive criticism. It may be several weeks before a trainee is allowed to take a phone call on their own; they begin with emails and responses on social media which are checked by Maria, the Customer Service Supervisor, before being sent. This is all to make sure that our customers get consistent and accurate information.

The customer service staff communicates with customers in several ways: By phone, email, online chat, one of our many Facebook groups and pages, and through social media programs like Instagram and Twitter. We also send out a monthly newsletter. The customer service office is open much later than an average business—often until 10pm EST on the weekdays—so that people can contact them late in the evening for last minute orders, questions or advice.

Customer Service advises henna users on custom mixes and selecting the products that work best for them. They take orders. They troubleshoot. Being a customer service representative is both stressful and rewarding. It requires an amazing amount of multi-tasking. Jumping from a phone call, to a chat session, to a Facebook thread is a normal part of the job.

We know many of our regular customers by name, and even their usual order. CS keeps notes on customers’ files, so if a customer has been working on adjusting their mix, or has been having difficulty achieving their desired color, any representative can pull up their history and continue the conversation where it left off last. (Here’s a secret: We’ll also write notes like “This person is so sweet and a joy to work with!”)

Because of this, we are able to develop a personal connection with our customers, and to grow a community of henna-users who are well-versed in henna for hair. Our online community at the Ancient Sunrise Henna group on Facebook is now well over 3,500 members, and is very active. Customers are able to ask each other for advice, and to share photos of their hair. The group is like our virtual bathhouse, and the CS representatives, Catherine Cartwright-Jones, and I are like the grandmothers, sitting quietly in the corner until someone needs a little help.

 

If you’re not yet part of our public Facebook group, join now!

We also have groups for relaxed and natural hair, and for Becoming Moonlight® body art products.

 

Of course, henna knowledge then spreads in real life, through families, friends, co-workers, and even strangers. This company does very little in the way of advertising; much of our new clients call us after being introduced through word of mouth. In fact, there have been numerous times when a new customer told me that they are calling because they had stopped someone on the street and asked about their hair. Customers regularly report that they are asked about their hair. This happens so often that, by customer request, we began adding an extra business card into each of our shipments.

It is exactly this kind of community that Catherine envisioned when she began Mehandi.com. Her goal was not only to provide quality product, but also the knowledge and support that would allow henna to become a regular, household practice again.

 

Mehandi.com. customer service room – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA

Cross-Training and Interdepartmental Magic

Because we are a small company, many of us wear several hats. When I was living in Ohio, I worked in the Customer Service office during the week, and at our brick-and-mortar store, Empire, on Fridays and Saturdays. I, like many others, was also trained in Shipping, where we pick and pack the items that go out all around the world. I also helped out in Assembly, where the products are put together. I liked to measure the powders for the Henna for Hair Kits, and stick labels on the packaging. At one point, when the bakery and chocolate shop, Bittersweets, was short-staffed, a few of us also filled in there to help at the register and to clean chocolate molds. During the winter months, some of us do body art, hair, and/or make-up for promotional materials and tutorials, and other staff members act as our models.

 

Because most of the staff has experience in several departments, we understand how other departments work. This makes it easier for someone in Customer Service to know what is possible for Shipping, or for Inventory to check on how much time Assembly will need to create more stock. Because the space is relatively small, it is easy enough to run over to the next room to ask someone a question related to their department. Having a small crew of knowledgeable and flexible staff makes everything flow smoothly.

 

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Communication and Collaboration

In addition to the comfort of the physical environment, the feeling of openness and respect extends to the way that we are able to communicate and be heard by those in charge. Company meetings invite brainstorming and collaborating on new ideas. When asking my co-workers for input about this article, many of them said that they feel respected, and that their ideas are heard. I wholly agree. One of my favorite parts about working for this company is that creativity is appreciated.

In fact, these blogs came about because a few months prior to my move to Canada, I mentioned that the blogosphere seemed like a place where we needed a stronger presence. This turned into Catherine’s decision to launch AncientSunrise.blog and BecomingMoonlight.blog, and have me write while in Montreal. It was wonderful that she recognized my knack for research and writing, and turned it into a way to keep me with the company.

 

 

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My home office in Montreal, in its natural state of chaos.

Photography and video happen by the bookcase; research happens all over the desk and floor.

 

 

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Other products of staff creativity include our Instagram accounts, video tutorials, and ideas for promo codes. The Customer Service staff propose events for promos, and create those fun announcements you see on our Facebook pages. We are also listened to when we feel something is not working smoothly. In 2017, when the new Mehandi.com website was launched, Roy gave everybody access to the site-in-progress so we could check the pages and provide input and corrections.

It’s wonderful to work for a company that recognizes its employees as creative and skilled people with ideas worthy of being heard. We can say, “I would like to try this” and the response is more often than not, “Great idea! Go for it!” We know that our co-workers will be excited to see the outcomes of our ideas, contribute suggestions, and give constructive criticism. With so many projects happening at any given time, work never gets old.

Our work takes us around the world and in front of big audiences, too! In 2016, Catherine presented to the Office of Cosmetics and Colors at the USFDA, and then later that year at The IFSCC, International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists. In spring of 2017, Maria and Gwyn spend a week in Italy, working with a salon interested in incorporating henna into their services and products.

 

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Catherine Cartwright-Jones speaking to members of the USFDA. Photo credit: Roy Jones

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Maria Moore and Gwyn Jones in Italy. Photo credit: Maria Moore

 

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Gwyn presents to a company in Parma, Italy. Photo credit: Maria Moore

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We Are a Family Company in Every Sense

Catherine’s husband, Roy, oversees day-to-day operations and decision making at the office. Her daughter and son-in-law, Gwyn and Todd, run Bittersweets, the bakery and chocolate shop. Gwyn also knows everything there is to know about importing and customs. Catherine’s son, Rhys, is an attorney who helps with legal matters. Mehandi is very much a family-run business.

But the staff’s family matter, too. When I asked my co-workers for input for this article, one of the responses I repeatedly received was how much they appreciated the flexibility they had when it came to taking care of their own families. Many members of the staff have children of different ages and needs. They are able to adjust their schedules when situations arise. Because our jobs are so fluid, it is often possible for one person to fill in for another across departments when needed. Staff members sometimes bring their children to work during school breaks, or on days when school is canceled. In fact, the employees’ children love to play with each other. Jen’s daughters are great models for body art, sitting still while having their hands or faces painted. They have been featured in many of our promotional photos. Maria’s son has also had his face painted his fair share of times.

 

 

Staff kids at the office during the winter holidays. Photo credit: Jenifer Jeney

 

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Playing dress-up, Becoming Moonlight® style.

Body art by Maria Moore and Alexander Limbach, respectively. Photography: Roy Jones. Visual Montage: Alex Morgan

 

 

 

Finally, we are like a family to each other. We bring in snacks and groceries to share with one another. We trade clothes. We talk about our families and our lives. We spend time with each other outside of work. For me, one of the hardest parts of moving out of Ohio was leaving my co-workers. I am still a part of the company, and communicate with them over the internet, but I miss the day-to-day comraderie.

 

 

Thank you!

Mehandi.com is a company that values solid research and creative collaboration. Our staff come from diverse backgrounds, and bring their own unique skills. We love our products and are happy that you do, too. When you order from us, you are supporting a small business, and you are receiving products and knowledge that we are proud of. You are supporting our ongoing research and innovation. You are supporting our families and fur-babies. On behalf of everyone at Mehandi.com, thank you for being part of our family!

 

 

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Alex, Michelle, and Maria (Empire, Inventory, and Customer Service, respectively) after a body art and makeup photoshoot. Photo credit: Alexander Limbach

Eight Great Gift Ideas from Mehandi.Com

 

The holidays are coming fast. Ancient Sunrise® and Becoming Moonlight® products from www.Mehandi.com make great gifts for a variety of people. You might know someone who has been interested in trying henna, or someone who has been a devoted henna-head for years. Maybe you have a cosmetics-lover in the family, an artist, a frequent flyer, or someone who is always busy but wants to look their best. Here are eight gift ideas to make everyone happy.

 You could also share this post with loved ones (nudge, wink) to point them toward what you might want this season.

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1. A Stocking-Stuffer Starter Kit the Curious But Hesitant

Your friend has been admiring your hair for ages, and they’re finally ready to try henna, but they don’t know where to start. Put together a sweet and simple gift bag with everything they need to begin. ​​  

 If they’re not sure about their mix, start them off with a few kit samples that are closest to what they want. They can use these to conduct strand tests to help them decide on their mix. Add in a packet or two of our famous Ancient Sunrise® Rainwash treatment, some disposable gloves, hair clips, and a warm knit cap. Write a nice note offering to order their first kit and help them apply it once they’ve figured out what they want.

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Sample orders ship free!

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Toss in some extras goodies that are sure to please anyone:

Ancient Sunrise® Zizyphus Spina Christi is a wonderful cleanser and conditioner for any hair type and color. Learn more about Ancient Sunrise® Zizyphus here.

Ancient Sunrise® Cassia adds strength and shine with minimal color change.

Spellstone hair ornaments make beautiful, unique gifts, and are 50% off with coupon code “Spellstone” until January 6th! They come in a variety of designs to fit every hair length and texture. Each design has a unique meaning. Each piece is made from ethically sourced water buffalo horn or bone.

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2. The Ultimate Pampering Package

Know someone who likes to turn their henna day into a full spa day? Make them a basket of Ancient Sunrise® products to make their experience extra special.

Ancient Sunrise® body oils, lotions, and body butters come in soothing and decadent scents, ​​ and are made in small batches with all natural ingredients.

Ancient Sunrise® Amla powder makes for a great facial mask that cleans, exfoliates, tightens, and brightens. It is high in Vitamin C which is known to brighten complexions, and has anti-microbial properties. Ancient Sunrise® Amla powder is tested for purity by an independent laboratory. Amla has many beneficial uses which you can learn about here.

 

Ancient Sunrise® Amla powder is great for the face. Just mix with water and apply for 3-5 minutes once or twice a week.

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Ancient Sunrise® Shaving Soaps make for a smooth, easy shave and leave the skin moisturized. They are great for shaving the body and the face. They come in Amber, Cedarwood Atlas, and Vetiver scents.

Ancient Sunrise® Henna Attar has a wonderful earthy aroma reminiscent of chocolate and tobacco with a faint, sweet floral note. Dab it on the wrists, behind the ears, or dilute it with a carrier oil. A little goes a long way.

Add in a comfy robe or a candle, and this gift is a winner.

 

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3. For the Constant Doodler and/or Glitter Lover

Becoming Moonlight® body art products are wonderful for those who have an artistic spirit, or those who were a unicorn in a past life.

 The Gilding Kits are a great introduction for those who have not used gilding paste. They can be used to create beautiful, sparkling “white henna” patterns and more. Each kit comes with a cone of Becoming Moonlight® gilding paste, glitter, gilding powder, gems, alcohol swabs, and instructions.

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​​ Create gorgeous works of art on your skin with Becoming Moonlight® body art supplies.

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 This is a great gift for teens who can’t stop drawing on themselves, and is much safer than those “white henna” tutorials online which use anything from white acrylic paint to white-out. Becoming Moonlight® gilding paste is specifically designed for body art use, and is non-toxic and latex-free. As it is flexible and water-resistant, Becoming Moonlight® gilding paste lasts up to a week or longer on the skin.

 Print out the free 2018 Henna Page Calendar or one of the many free pattern books, to provide some artistic inspiration.

Becoming Moonlight® glitters, gilding powders, and gems are all body-art quality and make for great stocking-stuffers, too. The gilding powders are wonderful as eye-shadows and highlighters.

 

4. For the Frequent Flyer

You may know someone who is always traveling, be it for work or for wanderlust. Put together a travel bag they can easily take with them wherever they go. These products are much better than those little bottles in hotel bathrooms, and won’t be a problem when going through airport security.

Ancient Sunrise® Shampoo bars are fantastic for travel. Your loved one won’t have to worry about bringing another liquid through TSA, or having a shampoo bottle leak in their luggage bag. They can even cut off small pieces rather than taking the whole bar. The shampoo bars are made from all natural ingredients, are vegan, cruelty free, and pH balanced. They leave the hair soft and moisturized; ​​ following with conditioner isn’t necessary, so that’s yet another bottle they won’t have to pack!

 

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Each Ancient Sunrise® shampoo bar lasts several months. As they are water-soluble, keep them dry to make them last longer.

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 Water quality varies greatly from place to place, and hard water wreaks havoc on the hair. Luckily, Ancient Sunrise® Rainwash Treatment is easy to pack and clarifies the hair to leave it smooth, soft and manageable. It comes in both single-use packets and 50g jars (enough for about ten uses).

Ancient Sunrise® Zizyphus is a great option for those who are going to the beach. It is a natural 2-in-1 shampoo/conditioner that protects the hair from salt water and wind. It comes in a powder form which is mixed with water to form a paste. For campers, it’s safe to rinse outside or in a body of water because it does not contain anything that is harmful to the environment.

If the person in mind colors their hair with Ancient Sunrise® henna, ask them what they use, and portion it out into single-use packets that they can take with them to touch up their roots when away on long trips. Root touch-ups usually take about 50g of powder. Add a fruit acid powder into their henna/cassia so they can just add water. Just remember to keep the indigo powder separate from the rest.

 

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5. For the Busy and Bearded

You may know someone who colors their facial hair or beard with henna. As facial hair grows quickly, it can become time-consuming or annoying to do frequent touch-ups. Give the gift of convenience by mixing up a batch of henna and separating it into single-use portions which can be kept in the freezer and thawed quickly.

 

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Dye-release henna and separate into plastic bags for easy application.

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If this person uses a henna/indigo mix, measure portions of indigo powder into individual baggies so they can just thaw their henna, mix their indigo, combine, and apply. This is a great idea for root touch-ups, too.

 Throw in a tinting brush or toothbrush for easy application, and a cool handkerchief so they can keep the paste warm and look like a bandit at the same time.

Add in an Ancient Sunrise® shaving bar for the times they decide to change up their look. Their skin will thank you.

 

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6. For Those Visiting From Afar

Shipping costs can add up quickly, especially for those henna-heads who live on the west coast, or outside of the United States. If you live closer to Ohio and have friends or relatives visiting from a far-off land, offer to order their favorite plant powders in bulk. Ancient Sunrise® products can be brought across borders without problem. If you order for the both of you, you get the benefit of a bulk discount as well.

Just make sure to account for shipping and handling times so they don’t go home without their goodies. Most orders take about 5-6 business days. Shipments within Ohio can be faster.

 

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7. For the Henna Nerd

 

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The Ancient Sunrise® Henna for Hair E-book has become something like the henna for hair bible. Many long-time henna users still visit it over and over again. The newest chapters include wonderful knowledge about the history of henna use. The best thing is, it’s free to download.

Create a unique gift by downloading the chapters onto a USB drive, and taking it to a printer to have it printed and bound. It will be a lovely addition to a library or coffee table, and very useful for when your loved-one is midway through mixing their paste and just needs to do a quick check.

 

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8. Visit The Empire of Magical Thought

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Empire’s windows have placed in the Main Street Kent holiday window decorating contest for several years in a row.

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If you live near Kent, OH, or will be visiting the area, stopping at Empire is a must. As the brick-and-mortar shop of Mehandi.com, it carries Ancient Sunrise® and Becoming Moonlight® products, chocolates from Bittersweets (which you should definitely also visit), and a plethora of items not available on the online store. From clothes, coloring books, and puppets, to an amazing selection of incense, tarot cards, and crystals, there is truly something for everyone. It is also a beautiful place to browse and wander.

 

​​ Empire is full of gifts and treats.

 

 A little goldfish pond near the entrance fills the store with the soothing sound of trickling water. Hand-painted kites float along the embossed tin ceiling. During the holiday season, a beautiful window display can be seen from East Main Street, and the inside sparkles with hundreds of tiny lights.

On select days, Empire offers free body art or tarot card reading with a minimum purchase, so you can grab your henna supplies, buy gifts, and treat yourself as well. (Make sure to leave a tip for your free service! They greatly appreciate it.) Check Empire’s Facebook page to find out what days they are offering free services.

 

Becoming Moonlight® body art done by Alex Limbach.

 

 

The staff at Empire is fully trained on Ancient Sunrise® and Becoming Moonlight® products, just like the Customer Service team. If you have questions about your mix or want to change things up, don’t hesitate to talk to them! This would also be a great opportunity to bring along any friends or family members who have been interested in starting.

The Empire of Magical Thought is located at 135 E. Main St, in Kent, Ohio.

 

 

Final Notes

When ordering your items, remember to check how long the shipping will take, to ensure your package arrives on time. Express shipping is available at extra cost if you order directly with Customer Service through phone, email, or online chat.

Office hours may change during the holidays. Liking and following our Facebook pages is the best way to keep up to date on any changes. Mehandi’s Facebook page is here, and also be sure to join the Ancient Sunrise Henna group if you haven’t already.

Indigo powder, Ancient Blue® indigo crystals, and gilding paste are affected by cold temperatures. If you live in an area whose temperatures fall below freezing, you may want to request extra insulation or express shipping to make sure your indigo stays safe.

Be sure to check the return/exchange policy here.

 

We wish you a wonderful holiday and hope your friends and family absolutely love their gifts.

PPD Sensitization in Men: Unique Risks and Gendered Behavior

This article was originally published at AncientSunrise.Blog.

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Introduction

Para-phenyelenediamine (PPD) is one of the most common allergens in cosmetics. While genetics can increase chances of allergy, anyone can develop a PPD allergy. High concentrations and repeated exposure increase the likelihood of becoming sensitized. Basic information about PPD is covered in an earlier article, What You Need to Know About Para-Phenylenediamine.

 Occupations that involve repeated exposure to PPD, such as hair stylists, and fur and textile workers, show higher rates of employees with PPD sensitization [13]. Outside of occupation-related sensitization, the average person is sensitized to PPD through a black henna tattoo, or through the use of hair dye. Prevalence rates of PPD sensitization are about 6.2% in North America, 4% in Europe, and 4.3% in Asia [1]. Overall, sensitization rates appear to be increasing over time [2]. Rates are higher in populations with darker hair, as dark hair dyes contain higher PPD concentrations. ​​ Rates of sensitization are also higher in countries where “black henna” is commonly used in place of traditional henna.

 PPD sensitization rates also vary between genders. Both body art and the use of hair dye are gendered behaviors; more women participate than men. This leads some to presume that PPD sensitization is more of a concern for women. While it is true that, overall, a higher percentage of women have PPD sensitization than men, it is important to discuss issues specific to men’s self-grooming and help-seeking behaviors that put the male population at unique risks. Certain populations of men experience higher rates of facial dermatitis due to frequent beard dyeing. Men who work in industries involving frequent contact with products that contain PPD or cross-reacting allergens may be forced out of their jobs to avoid continual allergic reaction. Men show reluctance to seek medical attention; this puts them at risk for future complications which could be avoided. Understanding gendered behavior may lead to better education, prevention, and treatment of PPD sensitization in men.

 

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This man will have permanent scarring from his “black henna” body art, and is now sensitized to PPD.

Source: https://shewhoseeks.blogspot.ca/2012_02_01_archive.html

 

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Avenues of PPD Sensitization

Traditionally, self-grooming and concerns for beauty have been characterized as feminine behaviors. Men spend less time and money in the use and consumption of beauty products and services. ​​ Gender-specific grooming practices will be explored further in the next section. About 30-40% of women and up to 10% of men in North America are regular hair dye users [2],[3]. Another study estimated that 70% of women and 20% of men have used hair dye at least once in their lifetime [4].

On the other hand, getting a “black henna” tattoo is much less gendered in western cultures, leading to a fairly even split in the numbers of males and females getting a temporary “black henna” tattoo. Traditional henna body art is highly gendered; it is used for decorating and beautifying women, especially for celebrations and social events. In contrast, “black henna,” when it is used in spaces of tourism, is used to mimic the look of true tattoos. It is not limited to a specific custom or style.black henna” is readily available on boardwalks and beaches, and in shopping malls, resorts, amusement parks, festivals, and fairs. Those who get “black henna” body art are usually children or young adults. [5], [6]. Children are attracted to body art that mimics tattoos because they like to imitate adult behavior. Parents who believe that “black henna” is harmless allow their children to have body art done, unaware of the risk of sensitization. Thus, both young boys and girls get “black henna” body art.

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A young boy is scarred and sensitized by a “black henna” tattoo.

Source: Daily Mail

 

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Of those who get a “black henna” tattoo, an estimated 50% will become sensitized [6], [7]. Some will experience a delayed contact dermatitis reaction following; some will not. A person can develop a sensitization even if they did not react to their first exposure. It is rare for consumers of “black henna” to understand the connection between the product used to create “black henna” body art, and hair dye. Children become sensitized to PPD through “black henna,” then later on may choose to dye their hair. The chances of a person previously sensitized by black henna having a severe (+++) reaction to PPD hair dye is about 40% [8]. A study found that 16% of adolescents in Manchester, England had a PPD allergy. Most of this was likely caused by the “black henna” they had gotten on holiday [8]. We will see a wave of hair dye reaction cases around 2030, when this population begins showing gray hair.

 

 

Source: Presentation to USFDA June 30, 2016: ‘‘Black Henna’ and the Epidemic of para-Phenylenediamine Sensitization: Awareness, Education and Policy, Catherine Cartwright-Jones PhD

 

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 While girls and women favor delicate designs, boys and men are more likely to choose tribal-style patterns that cover large areas of the skin with a solid application of “black henna.” This larger surface area increases the amount of PPD to which the person is exposed, thus increasing the risk of sensitization. If the client experiences a delayed hypersensitivity reaction to the body art, a larger area of their body is subject to dermatitis symptoms such as blistering, permanent scarring, and hypopigmentation. This is only just one way gendered behavior creates unique variables in PPD sensitization.

If a parent sees that their child is suffering from a reaction to their “black henna” tattoo, they will probably take the child to a medical professional. Adults, especially men, may be less likely to seek medical attention for their own allergic reaction, especially if it is not severe. Neglecting to seek medical attention causes a person to remain uneducated about the nature of their allergy, putting them at risk for repeated exposures and reactions. Men’s help-seeking behaviors will be discussed later in this article.

 

 

Grooming Practices as Gendered Behavior

Conventional ideals for appearance differ greatly between those for men and those for women. Entire books are dedicated to the sociology behind gendered beauty norms; therefore, it is impossible to cover this subject in its entirety within this article. One salient feature is that feminine and masculine norms are often presented as binary, and in opposition with one another [9]. If one behavior is used in traditionally feminine self-grooming, it is avoided in traditionally masculine self-grooming [9], [10], [11]. This is particularly evident in the way we treat hair. ​​ In western societies, most men keep their hair short, while most women have longer hair. Of course, there are many exceptions, and there are people and groups who intentionally choose to defy norms through their appearance. As societal constructs of masculine and feminine ideals shift, so do people’s choices in personal style. However, there is still an overall trend in gendered grooming behaviors. Cosmetics companies actively seek to maintain these norms in the sorts of images they use in marketing their products.

 

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Use self-grooming products while still being manly… Because sports...Or something. Source: Media in Canada

 

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Overall, women dye their hair more than men. Women’s fashion trends change more rapidly than men’s, and women change their personal style more frequently than men do [10], [11]. They do so by altering the length, color, and texture of their hair. Cutting, dyeing, curling, straightening, braiding, and using tools, products, and accessories all help in keeping a style “fresh” or “up-to-date.” Conventional feminine beauty values youth, and fears the appearance of age [9]. Women are much more likely to dye their hair to mask grays, while gray hair is less of a concern for most men. These behaviors play into the higher rate of PPD sensitization in women.

 Men’s styles focus on conformity, consistency, and professionalism. Men do not change their hair as frequently. ​​ Feminine beauty is associated with youth; gray hair is undesirable. ​​ On the other hand, men are less concerned with going gray. Gray hair may even increase a man’s attractiveness. It is “distinguished.” The term “silver fox” is used predominately to describe mature, attractive men. Younger men in white-collar professions have even been told that adding some gray into their hair may help their appearance and rapport with clientele [9]. The brand Touch of Gray promises to dye men’s hair while leaving just enough gray to maintain that distinguished, mature image. While traditional concepts of masculinity once idealized the perfect man as rough and rugged, the increase of educated and white-collar careers caused a gradual shift to the image of a clean-cut, well-groomed, professional man, whose power comes from his professional success and wealth, and his ability to attract women [9], [10], [11].

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The products on the left all contain PPD. They are marketed toward men, or claim to be “natural.”

The image on the right shows the warning and patch test advisory on Just For Men dye.

 

 

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 Many men do dye their scalp hair and facial hair to mask their grays. The popular brand, Just for Men, directly targets men with its very name. Grooming products marketed toward men attempt to both reinforce the masculine ideal, and present self-grooming as a valid, masculine behavior. Marketing focuses on how the product will augment a man’s ability to attract women, or his image of professional success. By re-framing the use of hair and beauty products as a masculine behavior, companies can increase their number of male consumers.

Men’s use of hair dye is increasing, and the age of the average hair dye user is decreasing. More and more young people are using hair dye as a means of beauty and self expression, rather than for masking gray [22]. This shift in the demographic will lead to higher rates of sensitization and at younger ages, for both men and women.

 

Dyeing Beards

Facial hair is rather unique to men. Biologically, higher levels of androgen hormones lead to thicker, longer facial hair. While women also have facial hair, it is traditionally minimized through plucking, shaving, or bleaching. Few women have the biological ability to grow thick beards. ​​ Just as scalp hair can be cut, dyed, and styled to express a person’s identity, so can facial hair. Because it is mostly men who have noticeable facial hair, the use of dyes on facial hair and the repercussions are a uniquely male issue.

Facial skin is thin and sensitive. Facial hair, on the other hand, is coarser and more resistant to dye [12]. Those who dye their beards might choose stronger, more concentrated products, or leave the dye on for longer periods of time. This increases the chances of becoming sensitized to PPD. Additionally, a person who dyes their facial hair most likely also dyes their scalp hair, and possibly dyes both at the same time for the sake of convenience. Those who are already sensitized may experienced more severe reactions when the compound comes in contact with their face. The proximity to the nose and mouth leads to further risks. ​​ 

Because facial hair grows quickly, a person wishing to mask gray roots will have to dye frequently. Men who use beard dye do so as frequently as once every five days [12], [13]. Men who keep their scalp hair short will also show gray roots more quickly. Repeated exposures both increase the chances of becoming sensitized to PPD, and worsen symptoms for those who are already sensitized.

Furthermore, PPD sensitization can lead to cross-reactions with several structurally similar compounds, including those found in synthetic fragrances. If a man later chooses to shave their facial hair, the process of doing so can create cuts and micro-abrasions that leave the skin vulnerable to reactions from soaps, lotions, and aftershaves [14].

 

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This man is in the hospital for a severe reaction to beard dye. Source: Consumer Affairs

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Ethnicity, Culture, and Class in PPD Allergy Variability

A population’s variation in PPD allergy prevalence rates is dependent on several factors, such as behavior, the accessibility of PPD products, and the concentrations within those products. Demographics and geography play into these factors. In many European countries, laws have limited the maximum concentration of PPD allowed in hair dyes, and a related compound, para-toluenediamine (PTD) is often used instead [2]. (Side note: PTD is believed to be less sensitizing than PPD, but those who are already sensitized to PPD are likely to experience a cross-reaction with PTD. We’ll save that can of worms for another time.) In countries where PPD concentration in hair dye is restricted, or where PTD is more commonly used, sensitization rates to PPD are lower [4]. The same goes for countries with greater light-haired populations [1].

Conversely, in countries with less restriction on PPD concentration, and with larger dark-haired populations, we see higher sensitization rates. In many Asian countries, hair dyes with high PPD concentrations are easily available. Popular hair dye brands can contain up to 80% PPD. ​​ “Henna stone,” ​​ which is solid industrial PPD, is widely sold for use in hair dye and body art [6], [7]. The median prevalence rate in Asia is 4.3%, but ranges from 2-12% within regions and sub-groups [13].

 In Saudi Arabia, and among Arabic men regardless of their location, growing and coloring beards is common practice. The prevalence rate for facial dermatitis from dye is high among this population [12]. A Korean study found that about 64% of adults with gray hair had experience using hair dye, and of that group, about 24% experienced a reaction [15].

A study conducted by the Cleveland Clinic investigated sensitization rates in white and black racial groups, and found that rates were similar among both groups for all allergens except PPD. Black people overall showed much higher rates of PPD sensitization than white people (10.6% vs. 4.5% respectively), and black men had much higher sensitization rates than black women (21.2% vs. 4.2% respectively) [16]. This is likely influenced by a combination of hair dye use/exposure, occupation, and genetic differences.

 Black hair care is nearly a multi-billion dollar industry. Black women spend more money on cosmetics than non-black women. However, this alone does not explain why black men have significantly higher sensitization rates than black women. One factor could be that black men who dye their beards must do so frequently, and with high PPD concentrations, similar to the phenomenon seen in Arabic men. ​​ One class-action lawsuit against the Just For Men hair and beard dye brand claims that JFM unfairly targeted African American men in their marketing of a product that contained higher levels of PPD.

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Various iterations of Just For Men “Jet Black” hair and beard dyes all feature black men on the packaging. Source: Amazon

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Additionally, there may be a higher proportion of black men (in comparison to non-black men, and black women) in industries which handle PPD and related compounds, such as fur/leather/textile dyeing, and the manufacture and handling of black rubber products in rubber and automotive industries.

One can look at a statistic for PPD sensitization in, say, North America for example, and make an assumption that all of the population is at equal risk. This is far from the truth; sensitization rates vary greatly between sub-groups. More research needs to be done on specific populations to determine these sub-groups, and the factors which lead to higher rates of sensitization. Hair dye and “black henna” use, as well as occupation cause significant variation. More nuanced demographic data will create a clearer picture of the populations that might require additional attention.

 

 

Help-Seeking Behavior, Education, and Prevention

Sociological studies in men’s help-seeking behavior affirm that men are less likely than women to use medical services. Studies have focused on mental help and addiction, as well as common physical ailments such as headache and backache [17], [18]. There has yet been a study specifically regarding the help-seeking behaviors of men and women who experience a reaction to “black henna” tattoos, or PPD hair dye. However, one can infer from the general trend of help-seeking reluctance that there is a large population of men who are sensitized to PPD, who are entirely unaware of the allergy or how to manage it.

 Overall, most people who become sensitized to PPD from a “black henna” tattoo are not aware that the sensitizing agent, PPD, is the same compound used in hair dye. Numerous case reports have described patients seeking medical care for reactions to hair dye, who reported having gotten a “black henna” tattoo in the past [1-8], [13], [19-22]. It is estimated that, of those who experience a severe reaction to hair dye, only 10-30% of cases will be seen by a doctor, and even fewer by a dermatologist. [19], [20]. In a survey of 521 Korean adults with graying hair, a whopping 74% of those who reported experiencing a reaction to hair dye said that they did not visit a medical professional. The primary reasons were that they did not feel the reaction was severe enough (44.6%), and that they saw the side effects as a normal part of dyeing their hair (39.3%) [15]. Another article estimated that only 15% of people with a hair dye allergy seek treatment, and only a fraction of these people are patch-tested for allergies [22].

 Societal influences cause men in particular to choose to “tough out” medical problems rather than seeking help. If a man experiences a reaction to PPD and chooses not to seek medical help, he deprives himself of crucial information related to his sensitization. Most likely, he will think it was a one-time fluke. He might not learn that “black henna” and conventional hair dyes both contain PPD. He might not learn that PPD sensitization can lead to cross-reactions with other products such as black rubber, fabric dyes, photographic developer and lithography plates, photocopying and printing inks, ​​ oils, greases and gasoline.

 Without consulting a dermatologist or allergist, someone who is sensitized may never learn how to properly manage their new allergy, putting them at risk for repeated exposure and worsening symptoms. Furthermore, PPD sensitization can limit prospective occupations, or force workers to leave their jobs due to continuing and worsening reactions to the materials involved. This would affect people in cosmetology, fur and textile industries, rubber industries, automotive industries, work that involves printing and photo development, and numerous other fields [2].

Studies suggest that men’s help-seeking choices are influenced by the perceived potential for embarrassment, as well as the perceived normality of a problem. If an issue is ego-centric, meaning that it may affect a person’s self-image, men are less likely to seek help. The same goes for if a man perceives a problem as abnormal [17]. Advertisements for erectile dysfunction medications have focused on normalizing ED, as well as reinforcing the notion that the embarrassment of ED is worse than the embarrassment of consulting a doctor. This is an example of an attempt to normalize a medical issue and decrease the help-seeking behavior’s threat to a man’s self-esteem.

 

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This ad for Viagra affirms traditional masculine ideology. Source: Outsource Marketing

 

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While statistics show that few people seek medical treatment for reactions to hair dye, additional factors may cause men to do so even less. First, men are less likely to seek medical help than women. Second, because traditional masculine ideals enforce the belief that preoccupation with beauty, especially hair, is a feminine behavior, many men may be hesitant to seek help for reactions to hair dye. Doing so requires admitting to the use of hair dye, which can create a blow to a masculine self-image. While PPD is one of the most common allergens (named Allergen of the Year by the American Contact Dermatitis Society in 2006), people remain largely unaware of its risks. Women are more familiar with hair dye reactions than men. Men may perceive a reaction to hair dye to be both non-normal and a threat to self-image. Thus, it is essential that efforts be made to increase awareness about PPD sensitization, focusing on its severity, high likelihood, and prevalence.

 

 

Just for Men Class-Action Suit

The hair dye brand, Just For Men, is currently at the center of several class-action lawsuits. Users reported experiencing adverse reactions to the products on their scalp hair and/or facial hair. Some suits claim that the patch test advised in the packaging was not sufficient for determining how the product would affect the skin on the scalp and face. In fact, conducting a patch test may increase sensitization. As mentioned earlier, other suits claim that the company intentionally and unfairly targeted black men in their marketing of their Jet Black hair dye, which the legal group claims to contain 17 times more PPD than other dyes from the same company.

If you are a man who has experienced an allergic reaction to Just for Men, consider looking to find if there is a legal group with an open suit in your area.

This series of class action suits is a positive move forward in demanding stricter regulation and more responsibility on the part of hair dye companies. Such legal action has rarely occurred against companies marketing hair dye to women, and fewer acts have been successful. Overwhelmingly, users of hair dye see adverse effects as a “normal” part of the hair dyeing process, and even choose to continue using products that cause reactions because the thought of going gray is worse than enduring contact dermatitis symptoms [15].

 

Conclusion

Because women make up the majority of hair dye users, there is a paucity of research specific to men’s use of hair dye. It is likely that more men are sensitized to PPD than current numbers suggest. Data taken from medical databases and case reports only include those people who seek medical attention or make themselves available to researchers. Surveys depend on honest self-reporting of behaviors. Men’s help-seeking behaviors may have cause research numbers to be lower than the reality

Based on available data, men make up a smaller proportion of the PPD sensitized population, in comparison to women. There is an exception in the case of black men in the United States. While hair dye allergies are often framed in the context of the female consumer, it is critical that the male population not be forgotten. The use of dye on beards is unique to men and poses special risks. Studies on help-seeking behavior suggest that men are less likely to seek medical attention if they were to experience a reaction. The idea of self-grooming as a gendered behavior further prevents men from openly discussing their use of hair dye.

Young boys who get a “black henna” tattoo on vacation, while at an amusement park, or in other tourist settings, are at risk of experiencing a reaction later on in life if they choose to use oxidative dyes. “Black henna” tattoos contribute significantly to the number of people who have PPD sensitization. In the future, we will see an increase of both men and women who develop severe reactions to hair dye. ​​ As societal ideals of beauty, self-grooming, and gender norms change, hair dye use may increase among men. Already there is a shift in the use of hair dye as tool for masking age, to an avenue of self-expression in younger populations [22].

In order to ensure that both men and women are properly educated about the risks and prevalence of PPD sensitization, continued efforts must be made in raising awareness. Consumers should be aware that PPD is highly sensitizing, and that reactions from hair dye are quite common. Steps must be taken to prevent PPD sensitization before the onset. This includes continuing to raise awareness about “black henna” body art, pushing for stricter regulation of products containing PPD, and presenting safe alternatives for altering hair color and masking grays.

 

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To learn more about PPD sensitization, visit the following links.

The Henna Page: Black Henna Warnings

Catherine Cartwright-Jones’ PhD Dissertation, “The Geographies of the Black Henna Meme Organism and the Epidemic of Para-phenylenediamine Sensitization: A Qualitative History”

AncientSunrise.Blog: What You Need to Know About Para-Phenylenediamine

 

To learn how to use plant dyes as a safe and effective alternative for coloring hair and masking grays, read the Ancient Sunrise® Henna for Hair E-Book and visit www.HennaforHair.com, and ​​ www.Mehandi.com.

 

References

 

[1]Mukkanna, Krishna Sumanth, Natalie M. Stone, and John R. Ingram. "Para-phenylenediamine allergy: current perspectives on diagnosis and management." Journal of asthma and allergy 10 (2017): 9.

[2]Hamann, Dathan, Carsten R. Hamann, Jacob P. Thyssen, and Carola Lidén. "p‐Phenylenediamine and other allergens in hair dye products in the United States: a consumer exposure study." Contact Dermatitis 70, no. 4 (2014): 213-218.

[3]Redlick, Fara, and Joel DeKoven. "Allergic contact dermatitis to paraphenylendiamine in hair dye after sensitization from black henna tattoos: a report of 6 cases." Canadian Medical Association Journal 176, no. 4 (2007): 445-446.

[4]Schuttelaar, Marie-Louise Anna, and Tatiana Alexandra Vogel. "Contact Allergy to Hair Dyes." Cosmetics 3, no. 3 (2016): 21.

[5]Goldenberg, Alina, and Sharon E. Jacob. "Is the Use of PPD in Black Henna Tattoo Criminal or Remiss?." International Journal of Integrative Pediatrics and Environmental Medicine 1 (2014): 22-26.

[6] Black Henna’ and the Epidemic of para-Phenylenediamine Sensitization: Mapping the Potential for Extreme Sensitization to Oxidative Hair Dye, Presentation at Society of Cosmetic Chemists’ 70th Annual Scientific Meeting, December 10, 2015, Catherine Cartwright-Jones PhD

[7]Presentation to USFDA June 30, 2016: ‘‘Black Henna’ and the Epidemic of para-Phenylenediamine Sensitization: Awareness, Education and Policy, Catherine Cartwright-Jones PhD

[8] Smith V, Clark S, and Wilkinson M. “Allergic contact dermatitis in children: trends in allergens, 10 years on. A retrospective study of 500 children tested between 2005 and 2014 in one U.K. centre.” British Association of Dermatologists’ Annual Conference. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, U.K. (2015).

[9] Synnott, Anthony. "Shame and glory: A sociology of hair." The British journal of sociology 38, no. 3 (1987): 381-413.

[10] Ricciardelli, Rosemary. "Masculinity, consumerism, and appearance: a look at men's hair." Canadian Review of Sociology/Revue canadienne de sociologie 48, no. 2 (2011): 181-201.

[11]Barber, Kristen. "The well-coiffed man: Class, race, and heterosexual masculinity in the hair salon." Gender & Society 22, no. 4 (2008): 455-476.

[12]Hsu, Te-Shao, Mark DP Davis, Rokea el-Azhary, John F. Corbett, and Lawrence E. Gibson. "Beard dermatitis due to para-phenylenediamine use in Arabic men." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 44, no. 5 (2001): 867-869.

[13]Handa, Sanjeev, Rahul Mahajan, and Dipankar De. "Contact dermatitis to hair dye: an update." ​​ Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 78, no. 5 (2012): 583.

[14]Jensen, Peter, Torkil Menné, Jeanne D. Johansen, and Jacob P. Thyssen. "Facial allergic contact dermatitis caused by fragrance ingredients released by an electric shaver." Contact dermatitis 67, no. 6 (2012): 380-381.

[15]Kim, Jung Eun, Hee Dam Jung, and Hoon Kang. "A survey of the awareness, knowledge and behavior of hair dye use in a Korean population with gray hair." Annals of dermatology 24, no. 3 (2012): 274-279.

[16]Dickel, Heinrich, James S. Taylor, Phyllis Evey, and Hans F. Merk. "Comparison of patch test results with a standard series among white and black racial groups." American Journal of Contact Dermatitis 12, no. 2 (2001): 77-82.

[17]Addis, Michael E., and James R. Mahalik. "Men, masculinity, and the contexts of help seeking." American psychologist 58, no. 1 (2003): 5.

[18]Hunt, Kate, Joy Adamson, Catherine Hewitt, and Irwin Nazareth. "Do women consult more than men? A review of gender and consultation for back pain and headache." Journal of health services research & policy 16, no. 2 (2011): 108-117.

[19] Søsted, H., T. Agner, Klaus Ejner Andersen, and T. Menné. "55 cases of allergic reactions to hair dye: a descriptive, consumer complaint‐based study." Contact dermatitis 47, no. 5 (2002): 299-303.

[20] de Groot, Anton C. "Side‐effects of henna and semi‐permanent ‘black henna’tattoos: a full review." Contact dermatitis 69, no. 1 (2013): 1-25.

[21]Jacob, Sharon E., and Alina Goldenberg. "Allergic."

[22]McFadden, John P., Ian R. White, Peter J. Frosch, Heidi Sosted, Jenne D. Johansen, and Torkil Menne. "Allergy to hair dye." BMJ: British Medical Journal 334, no. 7587 (2007): 220.

 

 

Henna on Fingertips, Feet, and Nails: Cosmetic and Practical Applications (Part Two)

This article was originally posted on www.AncientSunrise.blog.

 

How To Henna Fingertips, Nails, and Feet

Part One of this two-part series explored the use of henna on fingertips, nails, and feet. Henna was used both as a cosmetic and as a way to heal and protect skin, nails, and hair.

To read Part One, click here.

This section will describe how to use henna paste to decorate and strengthen fingertips, nails, and feet.

 

Note for US Residents:

The color additive “henna” is approved by the FDA solely for the use of “hair dye” (see, 21 CFR 73.2190); it may not be used for dyeing the “eyelashes,” “eyebrows,” nor the “eye area” for cosmetic product applications. Neither is it approved for cosmetic “skin tattoo” purposes. To use a color additive in any cosmetic product application for which it is not listed for regulation renders it “adulterated” and/or “misbranded.” (see section 601(a) and/or 601(e), and/or 602(e) of the FD&C Act)

https://www.fda.gov/ForIndustry/ColorAdditives/ColorAdditivesinSpecificProducts/InCosmetics/ucm110032.htm

 

Here are the US FDA regulations for the use of henna for the purpose of body art. These regulations have the force of law: https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/productsingredients/products/ucm108569.htm

If you live outside of the US, this does not apply to you.

Always make sure you are using only 100% Body Art Quality (BAQ) henna whether it is on the hair or skin.

 

 

How to Apply Henna to Fingertips

Save this for a time when you don’t need your hands. I do this before bed, and sleep with wrapped fingertips.

Henna on smaller areas of the body is easily done with a rolled mylar cone filled with henna. If you are unfamiliar with how to roll and fill cones, click here to learn.

 

 

Set Up

You will need:

  • A cone of henna for outlining. (Or you can use medical tape. See below.)

  • A small bowl or shot glass with about 1T henna. (You can just squeeze out the rest of your cone after outlining.)

  • A small brush

  • Toilet paper or other soft paper

  • Tape

 

Outline

Start with clean hands that do not have lotion or oils on them.

Use the cone to draw an outline. You may need a friend to help if you wish to do both hands.

Alternatively, you can wrap a strip of medical tape around each finger. The result will be a nice, crisp line. You will want to choose a waterproof tape with a straight edge (some have a zig-zag edge).

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Fill

Fill in the skin from the line or the edge of the tape, to the tips of your fingers. I prefer to apply in layers, allowing each layer to dry. This prevents having fingers covered in a thick layer of wet paste that will take forever to dry.

 

 

Wrap

Wait until the paste is dry enough to touch without lifting any away. A hair dryer can help speed up the process. Wrap tissue or toilet paper around each finger, securing with tape.

 If you like, you can pull on a pair of stretchy fabric gloves. The warmth will deepen the stain, and the gloves keep the wraps from slipping off.

 

 

Remove

To remove, unwrap your fingertips and gently scrape the paste away with a wooden craft stick or the blunt side of a butter knife. A stiff nail brush helps to remove extra bits. Try to avoid water for the first few hours while the stain settles and oxidizes.

The stain will deepen over 24-48 hours. To expedite the process and darken the result, gently heat or steam your hands.

 

 

  

On the left, the fresh stain is bright orange. On the right, the stain has oxidized to a deep burgundy after 48 hours.

 

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How to Apply Henna to Fingernails and/or Toenails

If you would like to stain only your nails rather than your fingertips the process is similar, and simpler.

You can do this either with a cone or a clean, small brush. A recycled nail polish brush would work nicely. Trim and shape your nails as you prefer.

 

Using a Cone

Squeeze the cone gently and fill over the nail using back and forth motions. ​​ It works well to apply a thinner layer, then apply a second layer as the first dries. As the paste dries, ​​ it darkens and flattens. You will be able to see where you would like to add more paste.

 

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Using a Brush

Henna tends to slip over the surface of the nail, so it is helpful to use dabbing motions rather than treating it the way you would nail polish. Let the first layer set, and then go back in to fill any areas that are thin.

 

http://gph.is/2xTs41a

 

Finish

You can either choose to wrap your fingertips similarly as described above, or allow the paste to fully dry on the nails. Damp paste will continue to stain the skin, leading to darker results. If you let the paste dry, keep it on for as long as possible (several hours is good) before gently scraping it away.

Again, the result will be brighter at first, and deepen over the next couple of days. You can reapply to deepen the color, and apply as necessary as your nails grow. I find that doing this weekly keeps my nails a deep red hue. My nails grow longer and chip less when I maintain hennaed nails.

Henna will stain the nail permanently, so if you choose to stop applying henna to your nails, a good way to hide half-hennaed nails is to paint them over with polish until the stained portion grows and is clipped away.

 

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Hennaed nails are a deep red. This color fades very little over time.

 

 

How to Apply Henna to Feet

You will definitely want to do this on a particularly lazy day, or in the evening before bed. You might want to have a friend to help you. I am a pretty flexible person and have found that hennaing one’s own feet is possible, but requires awkward positions.

Start with clean, scrubbed feet. Henna will help the feet shed excess callus and dry skin, but if you’d like your stain to last for a long time, it is a good idea to scrub off anything that is on the verge of shedding already.

Set-up

Remember that once you have henna on your feet, you are not going anywhere until it is wrapped. You’ll need to have everything on hand before you start, or holler for someone to bring you what you need. (Trust me. I have more than once crawled or butt-scooted over to where I had left my supplies, praying I don’t accidentally touch my feet to anything.)

You will want to cover the area where you’ll be sitting with an old towel. I prefer to sit on the floor with a cushion under me.

 

You will need:

  • A cone of henna for outlining.

  • A small bowl of henna. ½ cup to 1 cup should be plenty, depending on how thick your paste is.

  • A small flat brush or a large wooden craft stick

  • Toilet paper or other soft paper

  • Plastic wrap or plastic grocery bags

  • Tape. Medical tape is great, but any kind will do fine. It won’t go on the skin.

  • An old pair of socks

     

I also like to have a snack and drink close by. Maybe put on music or a movie. Make sure the cats aren’t feeling particularly needy. This will take some time.

 

 

 

 

Outline

Feet can be hennaed in many styles. Hennaed feet have varied by culture and time period. Some people prefer to apply only to the soles. Some apply to the balls of the feet and the toes. ​​ Once you have decided on your henna-feet style, use a cone to draw an outline along the tops and sides of your feet. I prefer a full slipper.

A helpful trick for keeping it symmetrical: Put on a pair of flats and use an aquarellable pencil to trace outlines on your feet along the edge of your shoes.

 

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You can also use medical tape to create a clean outline. Just apply the paste right over the edge of the tape.

 

 

Fill

Using the brush or craft stick, apply the henna paste evenly all over your feet. Make sure to apply henna between and under each toe. The paste will want to squish from between your toes while it is wet. Keep reapplying in layers.

Let each layer dry, then apply again until the paste is opaque and even. ​​ You can use a hair dryer to set each layer before beginning a new one.

I’ve found that this works better than applying one thick coat. The first layer helps the second layer stick better, and it all dries much faster. If you slather on one super thick layer and try to dry it, the surface will dry but seal in underneath. Once you wrap your feet and get up, all that wet paste squishes out and slides around. Walking around with squishy paste against your feet is really weird.

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If you do apply a thick layer, expect to wait a while for it to dry. Put your feet up in the sun, enjoy a beverage, take a nap...

 

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Wrap

Once your final layer is dry to the touch, use toilet paper to wrap your feet like you are a mummy. Be generous. The layers closest to your feet will get damp and rip. You’ll want several layers over everything, especially the balls and heels of your feet, where you put most of your weight. Use some tape to hold it in place if necessary.

Then, wrap your feet in plastic. Plastic wrap works well enough. So does a grocery bag. Secure with tape. Finally, pull on a pair of socks and you are ready to walk around!

Again, I prefer to do this at night and sleep through the processing time. I’ve found that my feet are too fat to fit into any shoes once they are hennaed and wrapped.

 

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Here, just the balls of the feet and toes were hennaed and wrapped.

 

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Remove

In the morning (or after as many hours as you can stand), unwrap your feet and gently scrape the paste off with a wooden craft stick or the blunt edge of a butter knife. I prefer to do this either outside or sitting on the edge of the tub with my feet in the tub (paste bits are rinsed down the drain for easy cleanup). Use a stiff brush to clear the remaining flakes, and do a quick wipe with a clean, damp towel.

 

 

 

 

Getting Fancy

Want to add some complexity to your hennaed fingertips and feet? Take a look at all of the free pattern books available at The Henna Page. You can even add gems, glitter, shimmering powders, and more.

 

 

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These feet were hennaed and decorated in multiple steps. Toes and details were hennaed, left for several hours, and allowed to deepen with oxidation. Applying henna and removing after a short period of time created the bright orange stain. Finally, gilding and jewels were added.

 

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If you have any questions about applying henna to fingertips, nails, and feet, feel free to comment below or email r_chou@mehandi.com