By Dr. Mahipal S Sachdev, Chairman & Founder, Centre for Sight
As the festival of colours approaches, homes and streets across India—especially in the northern regions—prepare to come alive with vibrant celebrations. Holi is a time for togetherness, laughter, and cherished moments with family and friends. However, amid the festivities, it is equally important to remember that synthetic colours and careless play can pose serious risks to our eyes and overall health.
Many commercially available Holi colours contain harmful chemicals such as mercury sulphite, lead oxide, and copper sulphate. Direct exposure to these substances can trigger eye allergies, severe irritation, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and in extreme cases, temporary vision disturbances. Fine particles present in colour powders, including shiny mica in gulal, can scratch the cornea, leading to pain, watering, redness, and even corneal ulcers if not treated promptly. A corneal abrasion is an eye emergency and requires immediate medical attention.
In some cases, toxic exposure can affect deeper eye structures, causing retinal damage. The appearance of a grey patch or sudden blurring of vision should never be ignored, as delayed treatment can result in permanent vision loss. Additionally, colour sprays and chemical-based liquids may cause chemical burns, further increasing the risk of serious complications.
Water balloons, often used during Holi, are another major cause of blunt eye injuries. A direct hit can lead to internal bleeding, lens displacement, macular swelling, or even retinal detachment—conditions that may threaten eyesight permanently. Such injuries require urgent evaluation by an eye specialist.
To ensure a safe and joyful celebration, here are a few essential precautions:
- Wear protective eyewear or sunglasses to shield your eyes from direct exposure to colours.
- Keep your eyes tightly closed if someone attempts to apply colour to your face, and request others to avoid the eye area.
- While travelling, keep car windows rolled up to prevent unexpected balloon injuries.
- Avoid wearing contact lenses while playing Holi. If irritation occurs, remove and discard them immediately.
- If redness, pain, watering, or blurred vision persists beyond a day, consult an ophthalmologist without delay.
Whenever possible, opt for natural, homemade colours instead of synthetic ones. Simple ingredients like turmeric mixed with flour for yellow, soaked beetroot for pink, or petals of tesu (palash) flowers for saffron hues are much safer alternatives for the skin and eyes.
Holi is a festival of happiness and positivity. By choosing safe practices and being mindful of the risks associated with chemical colours, you can protect your vision and health while enjoying the celebrations to the fullest. Play responsibly, care for your eyes, and let this Holi be remembered for its colours—not for preventable injuries.