Holi comes with multi-coloured splashes and a lot of happiness and zeal. The festival of colours is marked as the end of winters and the beginning of spring. As the winter blankets are lifted and the sun shines bright up in the sky, people throw colour powder on each other along with water.
However, amidst the fun and frolic of splashing water from ‘pichkaris’ and throwing dry colours, it is important to understand that the colours used during the Holi celebrations can pose a serious risk not only to your skin but your eyes too. These colours contain harmful chemicals and are made of harsh substances like lead which can cause irritation, redness and even damage to your eyes if they come into contact with them.
As per studies, these colours can cause mild conjunctivitis and other eye infections. Here are 5 things you should do immediately if Holi colours go into your eyes.
1. Do Not Rub Your Eyes
As soon as colour goes into your eyes, your first instinct may be to rub your eyes, but this can make things worse. It can elevate your eye problems. Rubbing your eyes can cause the colours to spread and can also lead to corneal abrasions or scratches on the surface of your eye. Try to blink several times to help flush out the colours, instead of rubbing them harshly.
2. Rinse Your Eyes with Clean Water
It is important to rinse your eyes thoroughly to expose the colour of your eyes. Use lukewarm water and gently splash it in your eyes and it will help you wash the colour out. You can also use an eye wash cup to clean your eyes.
Also read: Holi 2024: 10 Essential Pre-Holi Prep to Protect Your Hair and Skin
3. Put Eye Lubricant Drops In Your Eyes
After you rinse your eyes properly with water, you can put eye lubricating drops, which are used to treat dry eyes, to calm the irritation and itchiness in your eyes.
4. Seek Medical Help
If your irritation does not go away or if you experience persistent redness or pain in your eyes even after rinsing and using the eye drops, you should immediately seek medical help. A doctor can help and examine your eyes and prescribe you an appropriate treatment to prevent any further eye damage. Do not delay seeking medical help, as prompt treatment can help prevent serious complications.
5. Protect Your Eyes in the Future
To prevent your eyes from colour exposure in future, consider wearing a protective eyewear while playing with dry Holi colours. You can also go for sunglasses or safety goggles to protect your eyes from direct contact with colours and other harmful substances during Holi. Encourage your friends and family, especially children to do the same to be safe from eye damage.
In conclusion, while Holi is a time of joy and celebration, it is important to be aware of the potential risks to your eyes posed by the colours used during the festival. By following these five steps and taking precautions to protect your eyes, you can enjoy a safe and happy Holi without putting your vision at risk.