Harmful Side Effects Of Holi Colors | Holi 2024 | Asthma Bhawan

Holi is the festival of color and is less than a week away. The day is celebrated by pouring colors and water on one other in the most frolicsome way possible. Holi is without a doubt one of India’s most celebrated festivities but there are also some harmful side effects of Holi colors that can cause some serious issues for the human body.

Nonetheless, the event does pose some concerns, including the open usage of cheap, artificial, and vivid colors manufactured using chemical solvents. They irritate our skin, eyes, and respiratory system, as well as cause serious skin allergies. Here are some of the negative consequences of using chemical-based colors.

How Holi Colors Can Cause Respiratory Problems

There are several types of colors on the market, including paste colors, dry colors, and watercolors. Metallic compounds have been blended into these colors to give them a bright and glossy appearance. They can cause allergies, eye infections, and rashes. These particles can also be inhaled, causing respiratory problems.

The colors used during Holi are often made from chemicals and can be harmful to the respiratory system if inhaled. Here are some ways Holi colors can cause respiratory problems:

1. Chemicals in the colors: Holi colors are often made from industrial dyes that contain harmful chemicals such as lead, mercury, and chromium. These chemicals can cause respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and even lung cancer.
2. Inhalation of colored powder: During Holi, people throw colored powder at each other, which can get inhaled and cause respiratory problems. When the powder is inhaled, it can irritate the lungs, causing coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
3. Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to the chemicals used in Holi colors. When they come in contact with these colors, it can cause respiratory problems such as sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.
4. Poor quality of air: During Holi, the air quality can be compromised due to the large amount of dust and powder in the air. This can cause respiratory problems, especially for people who already have respiratory issues.

ENT Issues

Toxins in Holi colors can cause a variety of ENT(ear, nose, throat) problems, in addition to other health problems, water balloons can also influence our hearing and eyes in a variety of ways. Water in the ear can cause irritation, earache, and blockage.

Chemicals in Colors Can Cause Respiratory Issues 

“Color pollutants can enter our mouths and create respiratory issues. Particulate compounds in colors can aggravate asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD), resulting in wheezing, coughing, and mucus production. These particles can also irritate our nasal canals, causing rhinitis or an allergy cold, as well as making our airways hypersensitive. Those with weakened immune systems or asthma should also avoid participating in Holi.” says- Asthma Bhawan.

According to research, 40-80% of the particles in Holi colors have diameters less than 10m(micron). Asthma Bhawan says that we need to raise about the detrimental effects of colors and choose organic or herbal-based colors.

Health Issues that Holi Colors Can Cause

Eye Allergies

Holi colors contain harmful compounds such as mercury, asbestos, silica, mica, and lead, all of which are poisonous to the skin and eyes. “Allergies, corneal abrasion conjunctivitis, and eye traumas are common. Additionally, an allergic reaction can result in reddening, swelling, and watery eyes, and if the chemicals get into touch with the iris, it causes severe inflammation.

The chemicals have the potential to stain the lens and induce infection. Many individuals are unaware of the dangers of these colors and tend to take things for granted.

Skin Infections

Holi colors contain toxic metals, broken glass, chemicals, and insecticides. After playing with Holi colors, the majority of people complain of bacterial skin infections, skin allergies or contact dermatitis, rashes, itching, burning sensations, and hives.

Preventive Tips Before and After Playing Holi

• Before playing Holi, use organic colors and hydrate or oil your skin.
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, may cause irritation or other eye problems.
• Wear long-sleeved clothing, avoid rubbing your eyes, and avoid using balloons.
• Do not use detergent, spirit, nail polish, alcohol, remover, or acetone to remove Holi colors.
• Employ a doctor-recommended soap, don’t scrub, and simply hydrate the skin.

Other Holi Safety Tips

• The hair guard: After Holi, simply shampooing your hair may not be enough because your hair and scalp have already been exposed to toxic chemicals. Apply a liberal amount of hair oil before playing Holi.
• Overeating is still a sin: Just when you thought you were on track with your weight loss and blood sugar levels, the delicious gujiyas derail you! This is especially critical for diabetes patients.
• Your eyes are precious: It is not uncommon for people to get color in their eyes while playing Holi. When someone is applying color to your face, close your eyes.

Video: Side Effects of Chemical Colors Used on Holi

Conclusion

In conclusion, the chemicals in Holi colors and the inhalation of colored powder can cause respiratory problems and many more harmful side effects on the skin and body. It is important to use organic and natural colors during Holi to avoid these health issues. People with respiratory problems should also take precautions such as wearing a mask and avoiding crowded places during the festival. Consult to know more information about the Harmful Side Effects Of Holi Colors.