Holi 2025: From eco-friendly colours to non-toxic water balloons, experts share tips on how to enjoy the festival safely

The festival of colours is just around the corner! The spring season and Holi bring a unique energy and enthusiasm in the surroundings. The vibrant festival is a joyous celebration that lights up the lives of people across India and around the world. However, amid the excitement, it is also important to tick mark the safety concerns ahead of the festival.

As the market fills with vibrant colours and Holi products, the festival spirit is already in the air. Shops are stocked with all types of powdered colours to water balloons, but how to spot which colour is safe to enjoy the Holi.

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Celebrate Holi responsibly

There are various types of colours available in the market, but it is imperative to be vigilant before purchasing them, as these colours can do more harm than good. ¡°Toxic colours contain harmful chemicals such as lead, mercury, chromium, and azo dyes that can cause serious skin and hair problems later,¡± says Dr. Jisha Pillai, dermatologist, Lilavati Hospital Mumbai.

These colours can make the skin dry, dehydrated, and rough, and there can be cracking, flaking, and even peeling. Moreover, the toxins in the colours can aggravate acne and lead to pimples.

Expert-approved tips to play safe Holi

According to Dr. Shareefa Chause, dermatologist, Dr. Shareefa Skin Care Clinic, Mumbai, ¡°Avoid purchasing roadside colours. It is imperative to do the patch test before applying any new colour to your skin or hair. Use organic colours only.¡±

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Avoid cheap colours: Low-quality colours, as they often contain high levels of harmful chemicals and can affect your well-being.

Choose organic colours: Choose organic colours only or avoid smearing colours.

Prepare organic colours at home: In case one wants to play with colours, make organic colours at home using kitchen ingredients. For red, use beetroot juice or dried hibiscus petals.

Turmeric powder colours: Turmeric powder or saffron can give a bright yellow hue. Mix these with water or flour for a dry form and celebrate a safe Holi with your loved ones.

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