Holi care: Avoid gaudy colours, use red and pink, say doctors

One should apply sunscreen or oil or a skin barrier cream on face and exposed parts for protection.

MC women staff at their office in Sector 17, Chandigarh, on Thursday.

Holi is the festival of colours, but it could leave you with rashes, skin pigmentation and eye injuries if precautions are not taken. Experts say the simple rule is to avoid dark and shiny colours which usually have harmful chemicals and metals like lead.

“The black colour has lead oxide, green has copper sulphate, and red has mercury sulphate. The shimmering given to these colours is by mica and powdered glass, which are meant for industrial use. Hence one should avoid using gaudy colours like purple, green, yellow, orange, and should celebrate Holi with colours like red and pink instead,” said Dr Vikas Sharma, a Panchkula-based dermatologist.

He said, “The problems caused by harmful colours may vary from mild irritation in the form of itching or dryness to rashes or allergic dermatitis. There can be severe itching and burning sensation, redness, and in some cases, even skin burns.”

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Talking about precautionary measures, Dr Vikramjeet Singh from Fortis Hospital said, “One should apply sunscreen or oil or a skin barrier cream on face and exposed parts for protection. To protect hair from the harmful effects of synthetic colours, one should apply a leave-on conditioner or mustard oil. This forms a thin layer over the hair, which acts as a barrier to chemicals in colours.’’

“After taking a bath post-festival, moisturise the skin well. While removing colours, use lukewarm water and keep your eyes and mouth closed. Do not forget to condition your hair. In case of mild irritation or rash, use calamine lotion. In severe cases, consult a dermatologist,” said Dr Vikramjeet.

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