Holi skin plaints keep flooding city hosps

Kolkata: Following the recent Holi celebrations, doctors across the city are encountering an increasing number of patients seeking dermatologists' help for skin issues caused by the colours. The ones seeking help are experiencing issues like irritation, rashes, itching, and allergic reactions.
"Majority of those coming with skin issues are teenagers and younger adults as they are the ones who tend to play with colours the most. Some children are also feeling the impact of playing with colours. This, however, is a regular problem that occurs post-Holi every year," said Koushik Lahiri, senior consultant dermatologist at Apollo Multispecialty Hospital.
Doctors said the harsh chemicals used in making the Holi colours can cause skin issues in some people. The colours that contain synthetic dyes are the most harmful ones. In addition to contact dermatitis, the synthetic chemicals can cause allergic reactions.
"Approximately 10 to 15 patients with Holi-related skin concerns have been treated in the past three days. The oil-based products can also cause flare-ups of acne or breakouts," said Sanjib Chowdhuri, consultant, dermatology, Fortis Anandapur, Kolkata.
Doctors said the incidence of skin issues is more common in the younger age groups as they tend to play with oil-based or metallic colours instead of the organic or herbal ones, which are less harmful. Doctors warn that in severe cases, this can lead to eczema. In addition to contact and allergic dermatitis, a few are also experiencing problems of photosensitivity, which is increased sensitivity to sunlight, and itchiness in the scalp and hair damage.
"Another issue is some people trying to rub off the colours in a rough manner, causing skin abrasions. There is no need to try this hard because once it causes abrasions, it could invite some infections," added Lahiri.
Imran Wali, senior consultant dermatologist at Manipal Hospital Broadway and Salt Lake, said there is a good number of patients coming in with skin issues, including small children. "Post-Holi, we get many cases of skin issues. This time too, many patients have started coming in with issues like irritant blisters and scalp problems. While these skin issues will resolve with treatment and care within a short period of time, the ones with allergic reactions may take a longer period to heal," said Wali.
Consultant dermatologist Abhishek De of Wizderm Skin Clinic Kolkata said that he is getting two to three cases of Holi colour-related skin issues every day, along with sunburn problems due to long outdoor exposure while playing Holi. "In addition to the skin issues caused by the colours, including pimples, dry eye, and redness, some people are also complaining of issues caused by the use of too much soap to remove the colours," said De.