Special Correspondent: Arun Sharma,East Delhi

As the festival of colours approaches with its promise of joy, celebration and community bonding, Dr. Ajay Kumar, Senior Consultant, Department of Dermatology, Swami Dayanand Hospital, has issued a public health advisory cautioning citizens against the harmful effects of chemical-based Holi colours.


“Festive happiness is meaningful only when it does not compromise health,” Dr. Kumar said, urging families to adopt safe and responsible practices during celebrations.


Chemical Colours Pose Significant Health Risks
According to Dr. Ajay Kumar, many commercially available Holi colours contain industrial dyes, silica, chalk powder and other toxic substances that may adversely affect the skin, eyes and respiratory system.


Possible Health Complications Include:
Skin irritation, rashes, redness and swelling
Allergic reactions and secondary infections
Eye injuries, corneal damage and temporary visual disturbances
Breathing difficulties, particularly among asthma and allergy patients


Dr. Kumar noted that cases of dermatological and ocular complications typically witness a surge at the hospital following Holi festivities each year.


Dermatology Department’s Safety Recommendations
To minimise health risks, the Department of Dermatology at Swami Dayanand Hospital advises the following precautions:
Apply coconut or mustard oil on skin and hair before playing Holi to ease colour removal
Wear full-sleeved clothing to reduce direct skin exposure
Use protective eyewear to shield eyes from harmful pigments
Avoid harsh scrubbing while removing colours; opt for mild cleansing methods
Seek immediate medical consultation in case of persistent allergy, swelling or irritation


Shift Towards Natural and Herbal Alternatives
Dr. Kumar strongly recommends opting for eco-friendly and herbal colours to safeguard both personal health and the environment.
Safer Alternatives Include:
Turmeric for yellow
Beetroot extract for pink
Flower-based organic colours
Gram flour or natural dry powders


“These alternatives are significantly safer and align with the spirit of a responsible celebration,” Dr. Kumar emphasised.


Institutional Preparedness and Public Awareness
The administration of Swami Dayanand Hospital has also released a public awareness message ahead of the festival. While emergency services remain fully prepared to handle any contingencies, hospital officials reiterated that preventive care remains the most effective safeguard.


A Message to the Community
“Holi is a sacred and joyous festival. Celebrate it in a safe, informed and responsible manner. The colours of happiness should never turn into a health burden,” Dr. Ajay Kumar stated.


With growing concerns over chemical exposure during festive celebrations, health professionals stress that awareness, precaution and timely medical attention are key to ensuring that Holi remains a celebration of happiness — not hospital visits.
Celebrate with enthusiasm, but play it safe. Safe Holi, Healthy Holi.