Holi is a festival of colors and joy, but every year after this, hospitals record a 25 to 30 percent increase in complaints related to skin, eyes, and hair. According to experts, industrial chemicals, heavy metals, and alkaline powders are being used for cheap and bright colors, which disturb the natural barrier and pH level of the skin. Holi will be played on March 4. Hospitals in the capital, Bhopal, have made special preparations this time too. Doctors have advised adopting a ‘triple layer protection plan’, while 108 ambulances and 104 helplines have been kept on alert mode so that immediate help can be provided in any emergency. Problems increasing from Industrial chemicals Dr. Anand Gautam, specialist at the Plastic and Burn Department of Gandhi Medical College, explains that in the past few years, the use of lead, copper sulfate, mica powder, and other industrial chemicals in Holi colors has increased. In the race to prepare colors at low cost, harmful elements for the skin are being mixed. These chemicals damage the upper layer of the skin and weaken its natural barrier. This can cause problems like redness, itching, acne, allergies, and even chemical dermatitis. Who needs extra caution? According to Dr. Gautam, people with oily skin, acne-prone skin, or excessive dryness need to take special precautions. The outer layer of skin acts like a protective shield, which maintains moisture and protects from external damage. If this barrier becomes weak, the chemicals from the colors directly affect the inner skin. Triple layer protection plan First Layer: People with oily skin should apply a gel-based moisturizer. Those with dry skin should use a ceramide-based moisturizer. Second Layer: Apply sunscreen on top of this, to get protection from both sun and chemicals. Third Layer: Gently massage with coconut oil or other light oil to create an additional protective layer on the skin. For lips, petroleum jelly is recommended, coating nail paint for nails, and serum or coconut oil for hair. What not to do at all? Correct way to remove colors Seven-day skin recovery plan Day 1: Gentle Cleanser Day 2: Niacinamide Soothing Gel Day 3: Hyaluronic Acid Day 4: Regular Sunscreen Day 5: Vitamin C Day 6: Mild Exfoliation Day 7: Normal Skin Care Routine Eye protection is essential Do not self-administer eye drops if color gets into the eyes. Wash repeatedly with clean water and consult a doctor if irritation persists. Contact the doctor immediately if redness, itching, or blurred vision increases. 108 ambulance alert in Bhopal During Holi, the 108 ambulance service will remain deployed with full readiness in the capital. Ambulances will be available at major locations, including AIIMS Bhopal, Hamidia Hospital, and JP Hospital Bhopal. The CMHO office has issued instructions to ensure emergency medical arrangements. Hospitals have been equipped with on-call doctors and reserved beds. According to Senior Manager Tarun Singh Parihar, the 108 service is equipped with life-saving equipment and will provide immediate assistance in any emergency. 104 Helpline also active 104 Health Helpline will be available from 8 AM to 8 PM. Citizens can call this number for free consultation with doctors regarding common illnesses, skin allergies, mental stress, or other health-related problems. Appeal for safe holi Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr. Manish Sharma has appealed to use chemical-free colors, stay away from alcohol and intoxicants, and seek immediate medical advice for any health issues. Festival celebrations will remain joyful only when accompanied by caution and safety. This Holi, responsibility is as important as colors. Emergency Numbers (Trauma and Emergency Medical Care) AIIMS Bhopal 0755-2970771 0755-2970772 0755-2972406 JP Hospital, Bhopal 0755-2441977 0755-2557142 Hamidia Hospital, Bhopal +91 93293 84392 108 Ambulance service 108 (247 Emergency Assistance) 104 Health Helpline 104 (Free consultation from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM) Special Hospital arrangements (During Holi and Rang Panchami) Post navigation Shivraj to launch ‘Mama coaching’ classes:To take 5 resolutions on March 5 birthday, offering free coaching support to students
