Holi 2024: What are the health risks of synthetic colors? In what ways one can take precautions?

Team Udayavani, Mar 23, 2024, 7:51 AM IST

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Holi, known as the festival of colors, is joyously observed with great enthusiasm throughout India and various parts of the world. However, amidst the vibrant festivities, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential health risks associated with the use of synthetic colors commonly used during this occasion.

Synthetic colors, often comprising industrial dyes, may seem harmless at first glance, but they can pose significant threats to our health. Some of the popular colors and their ingredients include black (lead oxide), green (copper sulfate and malachite green), silver (aluminum bromide), blue (Prussian blue), and red (mercury sulfate). As these colors contain mercury, lead, silica, glass, mica dust, pesticides, detergents, and industrial colors like rhodamine, they pose a threat not only to the skin but also to other systems of the body.

Health risks of synthetic colors:

•Skin Problems: Contact dermatitis (presents with itching, redness, scaling, oozing, erosion, and blistering in severe cases), wheals, and dryness of the skin, are common reactions to synthetic colors. They can also cause abrasions, photosensitivity, pigmentation, and chapped lips. Temporary staining of the skin, hair, and nails can occur. Additionally, aggravation of previous skin diseases such as eczema, acne, paronychia (painful nail fold), etc may also be observed.

•Hair damage: From dryness to loss of hair, synthetic colors can wreak havoc on your hair health, leaving it brittle and damaged.

•Eye irritations: Synthetic colors can cause irritation, redness, corneal abrasion, and even chemical burns leading to discomfort and vision problems.

•Respiratory problems: Asthma, bronchitis, and rhinitis can be aggravated by inhaling these synthetic colors, especially in individuals already prone to such conditions.

•Methemoglobinemia: Certain chemicals in synthetic colors, such as aniline dyes found in synthetic colors, are ingested, inhaled, or come into contact with the skin in large amounts can lead to the condition known as methemoglobinemia, which reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, potentially causing serious health complications.

•Chemical Poisoning: Some Holi colors contain toxic substances like lead, mercury, and chromium, which can lead to nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, and even seizures in severe cases, if ingested accidentally.

Precautions to take before Holi:

•Things to avoid: Avoid using actives like AHA, BHA, retinoic acid, and physical scrubs in the week leading up to Holi. Refrain from procedures like peels and lasers at least 2 weeks before Holi. Avoid salon treatments like waxing, bleaching, and threading at least 7-10 days before Holi. Avoid coloring hair and limit heat styling.

•Moisturize and protect: Keep your skin hydrated with moisturizers and apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) regularly to shield against harmful UV rays.

•Nails: Cut your nails short and you can use dark-colored nail polish to prevent staining of the nails.

On the day of Holi:

•Pre-color application: Apply a thick layer of moisturizer followed by sunscreen of SPF 30+ at least 20 minutes before stepping out. Coat your skin over the face, neck ears, hands, legs, web spaces, around nails, and hair with coconut oil to create a protective barrier before playing with colors. Apply lip balm with SPF over the lips. Avoid applying make-up on that day. Avoid wearing contact lenses.

• Clothing: Opt for loose, full-sleeved cotton clothing to minimize skin exposure, prevent the lodging of chemicals, and reduce friction and sweating. Wear goggles to protect your eyes, and tie up your hair with a scarf or hat. Consider wearing a mask or covering your nose and mouth with a cloth while playing with colors (especially powder) to prevent respiratory problems.

•Avoid synthetic colors: Whenever possible, opt for natural/organic colors derived from flowers, vegetables, or herbs such as beetroot, rose petals, flowers (e.g. marigold), spinach, henna leaves, and turmeric among others. These are not only safer but also environmentally friendly.

•Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after playing with colors to stay hydrated.

After Holi:

•Immediate cleansing: Rinse off colors immediately after playing. Use gentle cleansers/syndet bars and avoid hot water to prevent further irritation. Avoid using irritants or physical scrubs to remove color. Oil-based/cream-based cleansers, coconut oil, or micellar water can also be used for better cleansing.

•Skincare: Apply a thick layer of moisturizer after bathing and continue to moisturize regularly to restore skin hydration. Avoid exfoliation, parlor procedures, peels, and lasers for at least a week after Holi or if a skin rash is present. Refrain from using makeup for a few days post-Holi, if your skin is irritated.

•Hair care: Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to wash off colors from your hair gently. Consider using a hair mask if your hair feels dry and damaged.

•Consult a dermatologist: If you experience any skin rash, seek medical assistance promptly.

In conclusion, while Holi is a time for celebration and merriment, it’s essential to prioritize your health and safety. By being mindful of the potential risks associated with synthetic colors and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy a vibrant and joyful festival without compromising your well-being. Choose natural colors, protect your skin and eyes, and follow proper skincare routines to make this Holi a truly memorable and safe experience for you and your loved ones.

Dr. Chinjitha T Davis,
Associate Consultant
Dermatology, Manipal Hospital Goa

Disclaimer: The opinions and assertions expressed in this article are solely those of the author/authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Udayavani. The publication holds no legal responsibility for the content presented.