WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE AN ALLERGIC REACTION TO JAGUA?

jagua allergic reaction

A reaction to jagua is quite rare, but never impossible, so it's best to do a small skin test when trying jagua for the first time. Skin reactions can occur up to 10 to 14 days after application. It is therefore advisable to wait 2 weeks before applying large quantities to the body. Skin reactions can range from simple itching to water bells, as shown in the photos below. Although jagua is a natural product, it is never impossible to react to a foreign product.

First of all, it is important to differentiate jagua from black henna . Jagua is a natural product made from a Peruvian fruit, the guenipa whereas black henna is composed of henna and a chemical called phenylenediamine (PPD). PPD is a chemical that is illegal in cosmetics in Canada. So it's important not to confuse the two products, even though the skin reaction may be similar. If you react to jagua, you're allergic to guenipa, not PPD.

What should I do if I have a skin reaction?

It's important not to try to "push" the jagua out of the skin. This is because once the reaction has started, it's already too late. Attempting to exfoliate the skin to remove the jagua will only worsen the skin's condition by irritating it.
Don't scratch your skin, to avoid scarring.
See your doctor or pharmacist for a cortisone cream to relieve itching. Follow your health care professional's recommendations.
If symptoms are uncomfortable, taking an antihistamine may help.