Patna: As markets fill with bright powders ahead of Holi, doctors have issued a public health warning over the hidden dangers of synthetic colours, urging people to take precautions to protect their eyes, skin and lungs during the festival.
Ophthalmologist Dr Siddharth Kumar said the eyes are especially vulnerable to chemical exposure. Synthetic colours, particularly green shades, often contain compounds that can cause irritation, redness, allergic reactions and corneal infections, and in severe cases may impair vision. “People should avoid rubbing their eyes if colour enters them and rinse immediately with clean, cool water,” he said, adding that contact lens users should remove lenses before joining celebrations.
Dermatologists have echoed these concerns. Dr Vikas Shankar said many commercially sold colours contain harmful substances such as glass particles, silica and acidic chemicals. “These can lead to itching, rashes, contact dermatitis and damage to the skin’s upper layer, sometimes leaving long-lasting stains,” she warned.
Doctors recommend applying coconut or mustard oil, or a thick moisturiser, over the body 20 to 30 minutes before playing Holi to create a protective barrier. Wearing full-sleeved clothing can also limit direct contact with colours. After celebrations, colours should be removed gently using lukewarm water and mild soap rather than vigorous scrubbing, which can worsen irritation.
Respiratory specialists are particularly concerned about airborne gulal. A senior doctor of medicine at Nalanda Medical College and Hospital, said fine dust particles released during Holi can aggravate allergies and asthma. “Shortness of breath, chest tightness and persistent coughing are common during this period,” he said. He advised asthma patients to wear masks outdoors, carry inhalers and limit time spent in crowded areas where dry colours are thrown.
Health experts also suggest using lightly dampened gulal instead of dry powders, gargling with clean water after celebrations, and rinsing the nose thoroughly to remove residual particles. Anyone experiencing worsening rashes, eye pain, breathing difficulty or chest discomfort should seek medical attention without delay.
With Holi meant to celebrate colour and joy, doctors stress that small precautions and a shift towards natural or herbal colours can prevent the festival from turning into a health emergency.
