Holi - Look for Chemicals in Your Colors!

Holi, the festival of colors, marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. It is a time for joyous celebrations, where people come together to smear each other with colored powders and water.

Holi hails from Nepal and is largely celebrated in India. The festival gets its significance from an old Hindu story and is celebrated with colors to spread the happiness of the salvation of one of the mythical characters in the story. It is a traditional festival followed throughout our country, even in some parts of the world, and is a time to celebrate with family and friends.

However, amidst the festive spirit, there lies a hidden danger in the form of harmful chemicals present in traditional Holi colors. In this blog, we will delve into the risks associated with these chemicals, the benefits of natural colors, how to identify safe colors and tips for a safe and eco-friendly Holi celebration.

Holi was celebrated with turmeric, kumkum, bilwa, and neem water. They didn’t have any effect on health as such and were safe. However, today we don’t think of using natural colors because we have convenient options available. Though it’s a traditional festival, modern issues attached to it are many.

The Risks of Chemical Colors

Holi colors are made from synthetic dyes containing toxic chemicals such as lead oxide, copper sulfate, and mercury sulfide. These chemicals can cause health issues, from skin allergies and rashes to more severe respiratory problems. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals can have long-term effects on health, especially in children and individuals with sensitive skin.

Furthermore, the environmental impact of these chemicals is significant. When washed off, they can pollute water bodies, harming aquatic life and contaminating the ecosystem. It affects the environment and the communities that rely on these water sources for their livelihoods.

Benefits of Natural Colors

Natural colors, on the other hand, are derived from plant extracts, flowers, and herbs. They are biodegradable, non-toxic, and gentle on the skin, making them a safer alternative to chemical colors. Natural colors come in a variety of hues, such as turmeric (yellow), beetroot (red), indigo (blue), and henna (green). These colors not only add vibrancy to the celebrations but also have a positive impact on health and the environment.

How to Identify Safe Colors?

When purchasing colors for Holi, it is essential to look for products that are labeled as organic, natural, or herbal. These colors are typically made from plant-based ingredients and are free from harmful chemicals. Additionally, natural colors have a distinct smell and texture that sets them apart from synthetic colors. If a color product has a strong chemical odor or contains ingredients that are difficult to identify, it is best to avoid using it.

Tips for a Safe and Eco-Friendly Holi

Use Natural Colors: Opt for natural colors made from plant extracts and avoid synthetic colors that contain harmful chemicals.
Limit Water Usage: Instead of using excessive amounts of water, use dry colors or a limited amount of water for playing Holi.
Dispose of Colors Responsibly: After the celebrations, dispose of colors in designated bins to prevent environmental contamination.
Protect Your Skin and Hair: Apply a layer of oil or moisturizer on your skin and hair before playing with colors to protect them from damage.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you are playing Holi outdoors in the sun.
Clean Up Properly: After the celebrations, clean up the area properly to prevent littering and environmental damage.

How to Take Care of Your Skin Before Playing Holi?

Moisturize: Before stepping out to play Holi, apply a generous amount of moisturizer or coconut oil on your skin. It creates a protective barrier that prevents the colors from penetrating deep into your skin and makes it easier to wash off the colors later.
Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 20 to 30 minutes before stepping out in the sun. It protects your skin from harmful UV rays and prevents sunburns.
Protect Your Hair: Apply oil or hair serum to your hair and tie it up to prevent the colors from getting tangled in your hair. You can also wear a cap or scarf to protect your hair from the colors.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after playing Holi to keep your skin hydrated and flush out toxins from your body.
Avoid Harsh Soaps: After playing Holi, avoid using harsh soaps to remove the colors, as they can further dry out your skin. Instead, use a mild cleanser or a homemade pack of gram flour and milk to gently remove the colors.
Moisturize Again: After washing off the colors, apply a moisturizer or aloe vera gel to soothe your skin and keep it hydrated.

How to Take Care of Your Skin After Playing Holi?

Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild cleanser to wash off the colors from your skin. Scrubbing too forcefully may irritate the skin further.
Moisturize: After cleansing, apply a rich moisturizer to hydrate your skin and restore its natural moisture balance.
Use Natural Remedies: If you have skin irritation or redness, apply aloe vera gel or a paste of turmeric and yogurt to soothe the skin.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh soaps or exfoliants immediately after playing Holi, as they can further damage your skin.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins from your body and keep your skin hydrated from within.
Consult a Dermatologist: If you experience severe skin irritation or allergic reactions after playing Holi, consult a dermatologist for proper treatment.

Conclusion

Holi is a festival of colors that brings people together in a spirit of joy and celebration. However, it is essential to be mindful of the colors you use and take care of your skin before playing Holi. By using safe and eco-friendly colors and following these tips to protect your skin, you can enjoy a vibrant and colorful Holi without compromising your health.

We wish you all a very Happy Holi! Keep yourself and your loved ones safe!