13/03/2025
Harmful effects of chemical Holi colours on your health, tips for a safe celebration
Quick health advisory for Holi colors - your Holi colours can cause cancer.
Look, I don't want to scare you before this fun festival. But you deserve to know the truth.
MOST holi colours sold in India are unregulated - so there is barely any quality control.
Manufacturers don't disclose ingredients, and often use the cheapest chemical dyes...
That were NEVER meant for skin contact:
🔴 Red - Mercury sulphide — a heavy metal linked to skin issues and toxicity.
🟢 Green - Chromium iodide — that can trigger allergies and harm your lungs.
⚫ Black - Lead oxide — harmful to the kidneys + the nervous & reproductive systems.
Studies have even found lead, asbestos, and endotoxins (at upto 35x the legal limit).
But the worst part? You’re not just getting this stuff on your skin — you’re breathing it in too.
As a doctor and new father, I play holi too.
I just follow these precautions:
✅ Stick to trusted organic colours — plenty of safe options available.
✅ Check labels — go for non-toxic, certified brands.
✅ Avoid cheap, unregulated “pakka” colours — these often contain industrial dyes.
✅ Stick to dry colours (gulaal) — dirty water and oily colours add more risk.
See - a little exposure to these colours probably won't give you cancer.
But is it really worth the risk, for a couple hundred rupees?
Stay safe, go organic, and enjoy the festival with peace of mind.
This message is completely unsponsored. I mean no disrespect and have no 'agenda' here.
Just here to help you choose wisely - Happy Holi!
Harmful effects of chemical Holi colours on your health, tips for a safe celebration Quick health advisory for Holi colors - your Holi colours can cause…