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~Experts at Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, Kolkata provides useful inputs which will help enjoy the festivities while protecting the skin, eyes and hair from damage~

National : While playing Holi this year keep a few health tips in mind to avoid any risk or damage to your eyes, hair, and skin. Usage of synthetic colours can cause redness in the eyes or chemical burns. Green synthetic colours and shining ‘mica’ in red synthetic colours can cause damage as severe as fleeting blindness and corneal abrasions, respectively. As preventive measures, sunglasses should be worn to protect the eyes from a misfire of colour-filled darts or water jets. Contact lenses should be avoided as the colour may get trapped between the lenses and result in an eye infection. Do not rub your eyes in case the colour enters as it may cause irritation and burning. Use lukewarm water when taking bath and washing off the colour. Coconut oil or cream can be applied around the eyes so that colour can be removed easily without any harm to the eyes.

Dr. Anushree Gangopadhyay, Dermatologist, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, Kolkata shares quick tips on skin care:

• Use natural, organic colours. Avoid using chemical-laden colours that can harm your skin and cause allergic reactions.
• Apply a moisturizer or coconut oil to your skin before playing with colours. This can help to protect your skin from the harsh chemicals and prevent rashes or dryness.
• Avoid using hot water to remove colours from your skin. Instead, use lukewarm water and mild soap to gently remove the colours.
• If you develop any skin irritation or allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

Dr. Dibyendu Mukherjee, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, Kolkata talks about tips to maintain a healthy diet during Holi:

• Avoid consuming high carbohydrates that includes sugar and sweets. Holi is often associated with sweet treats, but excessive consumption of sugar is not advisable, not only to diabetics and obese persons but to all in general as it can lead to other health problems.
• Drink plenty of water and hydrating fluids to keep yourself hydrated during the festivities.
• Avoid consuming alcohol or other intoxicating substances. It has its own ill effects on our body and society at large.
• Eat a balanced meal and drink plenty of water before playing Holi. This will maintain proper metabolism of the body cells.
• If you have any underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, consult your doctor for specific dietary advice.

Dr. Sumita Saha, Consultant, Paediatrics, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, Kolkata talks about celebrating safe Holi during spread of Adenovirus:

• Celebrate with your family: Instead of gathering with large groups of people, consider celebrating Holi with your immediate family members. This will help to minimize the risk of exposure to the virus.
• Wear masks: Make sure that you and everyone around you is wearing a mask. This is an effective way to prevent the spread of the virus.
• Maintain social distancing: Keep a safe distance from others, at least six feet apart. Avoid physical contact like hugs and handshakes.
• Celebrate outdoors: Celebrating Holi outdoors is safer than indoors. You can consider playing with colours in an open area where there is plenty of fresh air and sunlight.
• Stay home if feeling unwell: If you or anyone in your family is feeling unwell or exhibiting symptoms of Adenovirus, it is important to stay home and monitor your breathing closely. In case of any breathing difficulties one should consult their doctor immediately. 

  Let’s engage in a safe and dry holi, with minimum wastage of water!