Side Effects of Gentian Violet

• Gentian violet has shown carcinogenic effects after mice ingested large quantities of the substance. People rarely show side effects from external use, although you could get swelling, redness or irritation of the area to which you applied it. If your skin becomes hot and tender, you break out in sores or develop pus, particularly in areas of skin fold such as between your toes, you may have a skin infection caused by the gentian violet.