1. Skin Care
Dr Surit Malakar, MD, Dermatologist, Techno India DAMA Hospital
1. In the Holi festival,chemical color is used. Opt for natural colours: Avoid synthetic, chemical-based colours that cause “Contact dermatitis “.
2. Apply a thick layer of coconut oil to all exposed skin and hair to prevent colours from sticking and to make washing eaeasier.
3. Apply sunscreen to prevent sun damage.
4. Stay hydrated & safe: Drink plenty of fluids like water or lemonade to prevent dehydration.
5. Protect eyes, ears and nose from harmful chemical heavy colors.
6. Chemical or synthetic colors damage hair and leads to excessive hairfall.
7. For a safe Holi, prioritise safety by avoiding heels, which pose a high risk of slipping on wet floors. Instead, opt for footwear with excellent grip, such rubber sandals, or floaters.
8. Lips need special care. Apply a thick layer of lip balm on lips.
9. Wash off the colours immediately – Cleanse your skin with gentle chemical-free cleansers like cold-processed soaps using lukewarm water.
10. Restore skin hydration post wash – Apply a soothing moisturizing oil or lotions. This will help soothe your skin and keep it hydrated.
2. General Health
Dr MS Purkait, Medical Superintendent, Techno India DAMA Hospital
Celebrate the festival of colours with both joy and caution –
i. Should not indulge in alcohol or other inebriants .
ii. Should stay away from places where there is congestion and smoke.
iii. Not overindulge in sweets and other greasy ,unhealthy food.
iv. Should not drink water from roadside stalls etc .
v. Should take special care in cases of twin pregnancy or having other risk factors like hypertension ,Diabetes,heart conditions etc.
vi. Should use only organic colours .
vii. They should not stay out in the open air for a longer period of time.
viii. For pregnant women, long exposure to synthetic colors and pollution can turn to be fatal for their overall health and for the growing baby. The chemicals in Holi colours can not only cause nervous and respiratory distress but can also affect the overall growth of the baby. It can cause preterm birth or low birth weight amongst the growing child. So, it is advisable for the expecting mothers to ensure that they are exposed to the usage of Natural or Herbal Colours or Vegetable Dyes only.
ix. Those suffering from COPD and other allergic conditions should stay indoors.
3. Mental Health / Social Safety
Devdeep Roy Chowdhury, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Monoshij – A Mental Health Unit Of Techno India Group
Holi is colour, chaos, connection, and celebration. It is laughter in the air and gulaal on the skin. But festivals also amplify noise, stimulation, and social pressure. From a mental health lens, safety is not only about avoiding chemical colours. It is also about protecting emotional boundaries, nervous systems, and our four-legged family members.
Here are some simple, practical measures to keep Holi joyful and safe for everyone.
1. Respect Consent, Always
• “Bura na maano, Holi hai” is not a free pass.
• Ask before applying colour.
• No means no. Even during festivals.
• Avoid forceful smearing, dragging, or throwing water balloons.
Psychological safety begins with respect.
2. Watch for Overstimulation
Holi can overwhelm the nervous system.
• Loud music, crowding, shouting, constant touch can trigger anxiety.
• Children, elderly individuals, and people sensitive to noise may feel distressed.
• Take breaks. Step into a quiet room for 5–10 minutes if needed.
• Hydrate. Dehydration increases irritability and fatigue.
If someone seems withdrawn or unusually irritable, do not mock them. Check in gently.
3. Be Mindful of Teasing and Comments
Festivals sometimes normalize “harmless jokes.”
• Avoid body shaming disguised as humour.
• Avoid comments about skin colour, weight, relationships, or marital status.
• Do not pressure someone to drink or participate.
Words always linger longer than colour.
4. Alcohol Awareness
Holi gatherings often include alcohol.
• Eat before drinking.
• Avoid mixing substances.
• Never drive under influence.
• Watch out for vulnerable individuals, especially young adults.
Increased intoxication often leads to boundary violations and aggression. Stay alert. Stay responsible.
5. Physical Safety Matters
• Use natural, skin-safe colours.
• Apply oil or moisturizer beforehand to protect skin.
• Protect eyes. Avoid direct colour throwing on the face.
• Avoid unknown water sources.
If irritation occurs, wash immediately and seek medical help if needed.
6. Protecting Pets from Distress and Harm
Holi can be extremely stressful for animals.
• Keep pets indoors in a quiet, safe space.
• Close windows to reduce loud sound exposure.
• Do not apply colours on pets. Even herbal colours can cause skin irritation, poisoning if licked, and eye damage.
• Walk dogs during quieter hours to avoid crowds and balloons.
• Ensure fresh water is available as stress increases thirst.
If your pet shows signs of shaking, hiding, excessive panting, vomiting, or unusual aggression, consult a veterinarian promptly.
Remember, animals do not understand celebration. They only experience chaos.
7. Emotional Check-Ins
Festivals can also bring loneliness.
• Reach out to someone who may be alone.
• Include neighbours or friends gently.
• If someone declines, respect that.
Joy multiplies when it is shared thoughtfully.
8. Watch for Distress Signals
Seek help if you notice:
• Panic attacks
• Severe intoxication
• Aggressive behaviour
• Harassment
• Injury
Immediate support prevents escalation.
9. Aftercare Matters
Post-celebration fatigue is real.
• Rest well.
• Rehydrate.
• Clean skin gently.
• Reflect and reset.
The body and mind both need recovery after high stimulation days. Holi is meant to unite, not overwhelm. It is meant to colour relationships, not strain them. Celebrate with awareness. Respect boundaries. Protect children, elders, and pets. Let the festival leave behind memories, not regrets. Wishing everyone a safe, compassionate and joyful Holi.
