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Holi Colours Can Damage Your Eyes: Experts Share How To Prevent And Treat Irritation

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Pallavi Mehra
Publish Date
Date
March 13, 2025
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Blogs

Holi Colours Can Damage Your Eyes: Experts Share How To Prevent And Treat Irritation (Image Credits: iStock)

Holi, the festival of colours, is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. As people gather to celebrate the festival of colours and indulge in delicious sweets, it's important to be mindful of potential health hazards, especially to the eyes. Synthetic colours used during the festival can contain harmful chemicals, posing risks of irritation, infections, and even long-term damage. We got in touch with experts who the importance of taking preventive measures to ensure a safe and colourful Holi.

How Holi Colours Can Harm Your Eyes

Dr Niren Dongre, Consultant, Ophthalmology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, explains, "Many Holi colours, especially dry powders, contain synthetic dyes, heavy metals, and toxic chemicals like lead oxide and copper sulfate. These can cause irritation, redness, and even long-term damage if not handled properly." The key risks include:
    Irritation and Redness: Chemical-based colours can cause burning sensations and discomfort.
  • Allergic Reactions: Swelling, itching, and excessive tearing are common reactions.
  • Infections: Contaminated colours can lead to bacterial or fungal eye infections.
  • Vision Disturbances: Fine particles can impair vision temporarily.
  • Corneal Abrasions: Sharp colour particles can scratch the cornea, leading to pain and potential vision issues.
  • Conjunctivitis: Exposure to synthetic colours can lead to the pink eye (conjunctivitis), causing inflammation and discharge.

    • Precautions to Protect Your Eyes During Holi

    Dr Priyanka Singh, Consultant and Eye Surgeon, Neytra Eye Centre, New Delhi, shares essential safety measures, "Ensuring Holi is both fun and safe is possible with a few simple steps. Natural colours, protective eyewear, and proper post-Holi eye care can prevent most complications."
      Choose Organic Colours: Natural colours made from flowers and turmeric are safer alternatives.
  • Avoid Contact Lenses: "Colour particles can get trapped under lenses, leading to severe irritation or infections. Opt for glasses instead," advises Dr Singh.
  • Wear Sunglasses or Goggles: These act as a barrier against direct contact with colours.
  • Apply Coconut or Almond Oil: Applying a thin layer around the eyes prevents colours from sticking to the skin.
  • Do Not Rub Your Eyes: "Rubbing can worsen irritation. Instead, rinse eyes immediately with lukewarm water," says Dr Singh.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water promotes tear production and prevents dryness.

    • How to Treat Eye Irritation After Holi

    Dr Neha Gandhi, Consultant, Ophthalmology, Max Hospital, Gurugram, shares "If colours enter your eyes, immediate rinsing with clean water is crucial. Avoid using soap near the eyes, as it can increase irritation."
      Cold Compress: Placing a cold compress on closed eyelids can soothe irritation and reduce swelling.
  • Use Artificial Tears: Lubricating eye drops help flush out colour particles and provide relief.
  • Avoid Self-Medication: "Do not use random eye drops or ointments without a doctor's recommendation," warns Dr. Gandhi.
  • Seek Medical Attention: If redness, pain, or blurred vision persists, consult an ophthalmologist immediately.

    • The Need for Awareness and Safer Practices

    Dr Gandhi stresses the importance of promoting awareness: "To keep Holi celebrations safe, people must be educated about the dangers of synthetic colours and the benefits of using organic alternatives."
    Further, stricter regulations on synthetic colour production and public awareness campaigns can help prevent eye-related Holi injuries.
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