Skin Allergies Caused due to Holi Colours

Holi, festival of colours, is among the most celebrated festivals in Indian community. The festival marking commencement of spring was actually celebrated using colours prepared from flowers. Over the years, the fad of chemical colours or artificial colours has become part of the festivity. These are prepared from harmful substances like acids, mica, glass powder and alkalis, and are quite capable of causing serious skin complications and allergies. Often referred to as unholy colours of holi, artificial colours can lead to skin allergies, irritation, redness, rashes, itching and bumps.

Acknowledged skin research institutions have highlighted complications arising from powdered and liquid colours from time to time. The contaminated colours are prepared from highly active chemical compounds that can bring serious skin complications. Sometimes, dyes are also used in preparation of colours, which are again harmful for skin.

Skin Allergies

1. Eczema: One of the most common skin complications occurring due to effect of artificial colours. In this allergic condition, skin becomes scaly and appears to be inflamed. Besides, it has flaking and blisters that cause itchiness of highest degree.
2. Dermatitis: Atopic dermatitis is another plausible allergy occurring due to chemical reaction of colours. The allergy cause severe itching, pain and blistering.
3. Rhinitis: The allergic reaction is an inflammation of the nasal membrane, wherein one experiences nasal congestion, discharge, itching and sneezing.
4. Asthma: Artificial colours can also cause severe damage to the airways, or developing asthma. In this allergic condition, one experiences breathing difficulty and breath shortness.
5. Pneumonitis: Another possible allergic condition occurring due to inhalation of chemically treated colours is pneumonitis, wherein one experiences fever, chest tightness, fatigue and breathing difficulty.

Indirect Influence

Besides direct influence, chemically prepared colours can also act as toxins that get into body through skin pores, mouth, ears or nose. In this manner, these colours are the reason for causing toxicity within the body. Metal extracts are also used for preparation of chemical colours, which are also responsible for some serious health concerns.

Prevention of Skin Allergies

1. Usage of herbal or natural colours is advised for holi celebrations.
2. In order to prevent skin complications and allergies arising due to holi colours, apply thick layer of moisturising creams or oil on skin.
3. As soon as you experience skin problem of any kind, colours should be washed away immediately with running water, without using soap or cleanser.

Read more articles on Festival Fever