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Holi is one of the most beautiful Hindu festival, which is very near, where we enjoy together with different colors, but at the same time, number of covid-19 cases, are constantly increasing. Keeping this in our mind, we should play Holi but with precautions and safety, to avoid any consequences either due to Covid-19 or with colors. Colors on the other hand, plays crucial role, which can have effect on our skin, hair and overall health.    

 Variety of colors from different company have been used in Holi. Some colors are organic and safe for skin but some colors are made with full of chemicals which can have harmful effect on our body.

Dermatologist, Dr. Batul Patel, in Mumbai, states that chemical based colors or toxic colors causing many skin and hair problems like skin rashes, allergies and redness. It also affect hair, making it dry, dull and brittle.

Recent studies found, colors in the form of paste, dry colors and water color, contain many toxic substances like lead, copper, mercury, aluminum etc., showing many harmful effects on health including skin and hair. Sometimes, these colors can also be the reason of eye allergies or temporary vision loss. To avoid such harmful effects, it is good to use herbal colors or organic color to make your Holi safe. 

Dry Gulal, on the other hand, are not natural as it also contains chemicals like lead and shiny particles, which can cause skin irritation. 

In one study done, it has been found that Itching was the most common symptom followed by pain, scaling, burning sensation and oozing. The other complaints were aggravation of preexisting dermatoses (acne and eczema). 

Precautionary Tips

To enjoy safe Holi, some precautionary tips needs to be taken, which are as given below…..

During the time of Covid-19, the foremost thing which we needs to follow are:

• Social Distancing and use of mask without even a think over it. 
• No hand shaking
• Proper care needs to be taken.
• Celebrate Holi indoors
• Dry colors should be avoided as it can cause respiratory problems. 

Some Tips while playing Holi with colors are:

Skin: Skin is the most sensitive organ in our body, so before playing Holi, it should be well moisturized, so that the colors will not cause any skin irritation on the skin. Colors on the face should be removed with proper care. 

• Cleansing cream, gel or lotion can be used to rinse the face, as these help to dissolve the colors and also help in color removal. 
• Some oils like olive or sunflower oil or sesame oil, can also be used to remove colors from the skin. 
• Calamine lotion is another effective remedy, which can be applied on skin irritation, if occurs. Consult doctor if symptoms persist. 
• For overall body skin, glycerin or aloe Vera based soaps can also be used but make sure to avoid reuse of any soaps, as it results in dry skin. 
• Sunscreen lotion to be used.

Hair: Colors can make hair dull, dry and brittle. To avoid such conditions, some hair tips needs to be followed

• Good amount of oil should be applied on hair to reduce the effect of colors.
• Cover your hair with scarf
• Eyes and lips: These are another very sensitive body part, which needs to take care off. 
• Avoid wearing lenses, as colors might harm them and so your eyes. 
• For lips, apply a thick layer of balm.

Holi colors made and sold in Indian markets are mostly without any quality checks, with or without any information written about the source of the contents or anything important on the packages, that can cause dangerous effects on us. Many non-governmental organizations have started campaigning for safe practices colors in Holi. Many organizations are trying to increase public awareness about harmful effects of colors on health.  The only message coming from them are to avoid chemical based colors in Holi and use flower or herbal colors, play Holi with full safety, without affecting self and others.

Holi is “Around the Corner”

                              Let’s Celebrate 

Happy and Safe Holi