Go to any market or style e-commerce web site, and also you’ll discover loads of designer bindis on show: minimalist, gaudy, pearl-studded, wavy… effectively, the checklist is infinite. These can be found in all shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns. Nevertheless, this omnipresent quick style alternative usually comes with missed penalties: These synthetic bindis will be dangerous to the pores and skin in the long term, resulting in what dermatologists name bindi leukoderma.
Right this moment, most are patches of cloth or plastic glued with adhesives containing p-tertiary butyl phenol (PTBP).
From style to an infection
“A number of revealed research describe bindi leukoderma as contact depigmentation brought on by melanocytotoxic chemical substances current in bindi adhesives,” explains Dr Geetika Srivastava, dermatologist and founding father of Delhi’s Influennz Clinic.
Story continues under this advert
To place it straight, the purpose on the brow the place you apply these commonly begins shedding pigment over time, giving a vitiligo-like look. This occurs due to the infamous chemical p-tertiary butyl phenol (PTBP) utilized in making bindi adhesives. It’s extremely poisonous to the cells accountable for producing pores and skin pigment and may “set off everlasting depigmentation on the web site of contact.”
The dangers are even larger in scorching, humid climates like India — the place the bindi is historically worn — as a result of it will increase chemical penetration into the pores and skin. Particular person sensitisation and length of publicity additionally play roles. “The longer you put on the adhesive bindi, the upper the chance of creating the situation,” says Dr Srivastava.
Over time, bindis have advanced from easy kumkum dots to ornamental stick-ons made with felt, velvet, glitter, and even stones (picture supply: Vaibhavi Mishra)
Precaution is healthier than remedy
Suggesting home made bindis as a secure aletrnative, the skilled mentioned: “Limit self-adhesive bindis to occasional use solely.”
When you have delicate pores and skin, additional warning is important. “Folks with a historical past of pores and skin allergy symptoms or earlier reactions to market bindis ought to persist with kumkum or home made variations. Even sindoor, which can comprise azo dyes, may cause leukoderma in delicate people.”Story continues under this advert
Nevertheless, extended use doesn’t instantly trigger superior injury. Dr Srivastava factors out, “A number of research recommend that three out of 4 ladies develop an allergic response earlier than the precise depigmentation units in. If one discontinues utilization at this stage, leukoderma can usually be prevented.”
Is home made bindi an answer?
Dr. Srivastava wholeheartedly agrees that natural kumkum stays the most secure possibility. “Historically, bindis had been created from kumkum, vegetable, or mineral dyes, and didn’t comprise dangerous chemical substances. There was no threat of depigmentation.”
Alternatively, you may make your personal kumkum at house utilizing turmeric. “At worst, it could depart a brief yellowish tint, however this isn’t dangerous.”
Nevertheless, she advises warning with components like ghee and lime. “For some pores and skin sorts, lime may cause alkaline burns, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or set off irritant contact dermatitis. Equally, ghee could clog pores and set off pimples flare-ups in acne-prone pores and skin. A small patch take a look at goes a good distance in such instances.”Story continues under this advert
DISCLAIMER: This text is predicated on info from the general public area and/or the specialists we spoke to. At all times seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
