Designer bindis available in markets and online stores come in countless shapes, colours, and patterns. While these fast fashion accessories are popular, dermatologists warn they can harm the skin over time. Most modern bindis are made of fabric or plastic patches attached with adhesives containing p-tertiary butyl phenol (PTBP), a chemical toxic to pigment-producing cells. Prolonged use can lead to bindi leukoderma, a condition where the skin on the forehead loses pigment, creating a vitiligo-like appearance. The risk increases in hot, humid climates like India, where higher temperatures boost chemical penetration into the skin. Dr Geetika Srivastava, a dermatologist from Delhi's Influennz Clinic, explains that several published studies link bindi leukoderma to melanocytotoxic chemicals in adhesives. She advises limiting self-adhesive bindis to occasional use and recommends traditional kumkum or homemade alternatives as safer options, especially for people with sensitive skin or a history of allergies.
Safe Alternatives and Preventive Measures
Dr Srivastava recommends organic kumkum as the safest choice. Traditional bindis made from kumkum, vegetable, or mineral dyes contained no harmful chemicals and posed no depigmentation risk. Homemade kumkum using turmeric is also suggested, though it may leave a temporary yellowish tint. She cautions against using lime in homemade mixtures, as it can cause alkaline burns, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or irritant contact dermatitis on certain skin types. Ghee may clog pores and trigger acne in prone individuals. A patch test is recommended before trying new ingredients. Studies show three out of four women develop allergic reactions before actual depigmentation occurs. Discontinuing adhesive bindis at this stage can often prevent leukoderma from developing.
Source: Link