Patna, March 17: Residents of the state capital have decided to go green and get eco-friendly colours this Holi.

Reason: The festival of colours is supposed to be fun. But for some, it can result in skin complications and allergies that may take days or even months to cure. Some ill-effects can be longer lasting like skin cancer or blindness.

Dermatologists, however, claim that these can be avoided by taking precautions.

The solution: Use herbal colours that may be a little expensive but saves you trouble in the long run.

If you cannot avoid the colours — that have become only too common — it is best to just wash them off as soon as possible.

“Most colours sold nowadays are synthetic and contain harmful chemicals. In fact, most of these are industrial dyes used to colour textiles. Obviously, they are harmful for humans,” said Dhirendra Verma, a dermatologist.

Verma said: “Heavy metals, corrosive acids and powdered glass are used in these colours. These can result in skin allergies, irritation and even cancer or blindness. These should be avoided.”

Asbestos talc, chalk powder and silica are used to make these colours sparkling and attractive.

“Asbestos is a carcinogen that builds body tissues. Expose to even micro quantities can cause cancer. Silica can dry or chap the skin. The colours look shiny because of powdered glass or mica,” the doctor added.

He said it was impossible to avoid the harmful colours during Holi. But the best solution is to expose as little of one’s self as possible to these dyes and wash them off as fast as possible.

Many residents believe that awareness about colours has increased a lot.

“I use gulal made of sand and starch that do not harm the skin. I also purchased eco-friendly wet colours,” said Rajiv Nagar resident Sangeetha Chaudhury, a homemaker.

Binod Kumar Sinha, a dermatologist at Patna Medical College and Hospital, said people should wear light-coloured clothes that cover most of their body when they play Holi.

“If you wear clothes of light hues, you will be coloured with small amount of the dyes. But if you wear dark clothes, your friends might try to douse you in paint. That, in turn, is bad for your skin,” said Sinha.

He added: “Before you get down to playing with colours, you must apply an oil-based moisturiser or cream to your exposed skin. Also, you must wash off the colours as soon as possible.”

He said cases of eye injury were common during Holi and people should be careful.

“Be responsible when you play Holi. Sensitive organs like eyes should be avoided. If colour does enter your eyes, wash them immediately. Consult a doctor if the irritation persists,” said Sinha.

It is not just your skin or eyes; harmful colours can affect your hair as well.

Radha, a Patna-based beauty expert, said: “The chemicals in the colour and the dust in the air can damage the roots and the scalp and make the hair very brittle.

“One must oil one’s hair before playing Holi to prevent damage,” said the beauty expert.

Patna Women’s College student Saumya Sharma said: “Holi is supposed to be fun. We should ensure that it does not turn into a harmful experience for us or our friends.”

Safe Holi!