Holi is not just a festival of playing with colors; it celebrates the arrival of spring, social harmony, and joy. It is also connected with religious and cultural significance. In recent years, the nature of the colors associated with Holi has been changing. Natural colors made from flowers, plants, and soil are gradually disappearing, while the use of chemical colors available in the market has increased. Experience shows that in the days following Holi, there is a noticeable rise in skin, eye, and hair-related problems each year.
• Modern artificial colors often contain heavy metals such as chromium, mercury, and lead, which can pose risks to the skin and overall health.Traditionally, the colors used in Holi were mostly natural. Yellow was obtained from turmeric, saffron, or yellow flowers. Red came from flowers like palash. Green was made from spinach or fenugreek leaves. Blue was derived from indigo powder. Such colors were skin-friendly, easily soluble in water, and environmentally safe.
• Applying moisturizer before playing Holi, using sunscreen, and choosing natural colors are key measures to protect health.
With industrial production, the original character of colors changed. Many colors available in the market today are made from industrial dyes used for coloring clothes and plastics. There are usually no warnings on the packages about the risks of applying them to the skin, nor are consumers adequately informed.
From a chemical perspective, artificial Holi colors often contain various heavy metals and synthetic pigments. For example, green colors commonly contain chromium oxide; red colors may contain mercury sulfide or Rhodamine B; black may contain lead oxide; blue may contain Prussian blue; and yellow may contain lead chromate. These substances are not limited to the surface of the skin and can penetrate into it. They may cause small wounds, acne breakouts, allergic rashes, or dryness. Engine oil, diesel, or cheap mineral oil may be added to make the colors smoother, which further increases the risk.
The effects on the skin can be both immediate and delayed. Immediate effects may include burning, irritation, redness, itching, swelling, blisters, and rashes. This condition is known as irritant or allergic contact dermatitis. In some individuals, itching and rashes may appear within minutes of applying the color.
People who already have skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, pigmentation disorders, vitiligo, or lupus are more vulnerable to these harmful effects.
Delayed effects may include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark patches on the skin), thinning of the skin, or long-term allergies. Some heavy metals can accumulate in the body over time and may even affect internal organs.
Not only the skin, but the eyes and hair also become direct victims of these colors. Chemical colors entering the eyes can cause conjunctivitis, corneal erosion, sensitivity to light, or blurred vision. When colors and oily chemicals accumulate on the hair, they can cause dryness, hair breakage, increased dandruff, and hair loss.
In people with asthma or allergies, inhaling color powder can cause coughing and breathing difficulties as it reaches the lungs.
What precautions should be taken while using colors?
Despite all these risks, this does not mean that Holi should not be celebrated. The issue lies in the choice of colors and the way they are used. Preventive measures are simple but effective. Applying sufficient moisturizer or coconut oil on the skin before playing Holi makes it harder for the colors to penetrate the skin.
Using sunscreen while playing in the sun is important because the combined effect of chemical colors and sunlight can cause greater skin damage. Keeping nails short and applying lip balm are also helpful measures. For eye protection, wearing glasses is safer than using contact lenses.
The most important factor is the choice of colors. As far as possible, certified herbal or homemade natural colors should be used. It is wise to avoid cheap colors sold as “strong,” “permanent,” or “shiny.” Children have more sensitive skin and therefore require special care. Pregnant women, people with chronic skin diseases, and those taking medications should preferably avoid contact with colors.
How to clean after Holi?
The method of cleaning the skin after Holi is equally important. Scrubbing forcefully with soap can further damage the skin’s protective layer. First, gently wash off the color with plain water or a mild cleanser, then apply moisturizer. For hair, a mild shampoo and conditioner are sufficient. If the color is difficult to remove, it is better to wait a few days and allow it to fade naturally rather than using chemical removers. If there is burning, blisters, or unbearable itching, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist immediately.
The true essence of Holi lies not in the intensity of the colors but in the sweetness of relationships. Returning to natural colors, adopting safe practices, and respecting others’ health is the need of the time.
