Henna (mehendi) and blood donation

Yes, you can donate. Yes, henna sits on the skin, not through it. Mehendi is not a tattoo and does not defer donation. ## The short answer The tattoo rule exists for needle-borne infection risk; henna involves no needles at all. If fresh henna covers the elbow crease completely, staff may pick the other arm, that is all. ## At the screening desk Tell the staff: Nothing routine. That conversation is confidential and takes a minute, it exists so the medical officer can clear you safely on the day. Everyone meets the same basics: age 18,65, weight 50 kg+, haemoglobin on target, feeling well today. Men donate every 3 months, women every 4, the rest rules, simply. Not sure about your case? Try the Can I donate? checker or read who can donate and the deferral list in plain words. Still weighing it? Is blood donation safe? and the honest side-effects list are straight answers, not brochure talk. ## The one line that matters The medical officer at the centre makes the final call on the day, with your name, your file and your actual reading in front of them. Use this page to walk in informed, not to overrule anyone. Related: donate blood after tattoo piercing