The Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety ( BVL ) is warning participants of Holi events, which are now taking place again after a two-year break, of possible health consequences. “It wouldn’t be a bad idea to wear a colorful FFP2 mask or protective glasses at such events to protect yourself,” advises Dr. Andreas Butschke, Head of the Consumer Products Department. The participants are suddenly exposed to a large amount of colored powder and fine dust. Both are not only deposited on clothing and skin, but are also inhaled.

It is also important “that only explosion-tested , approved Holi colors are used,” emphasizes BVL expert Butschke. The organizers should make this information available festival website The basic rule is: The manufacturers of paints and powders are responsible for ensuring that the products comply with applicable law. Consequently, the products must not harm health.

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Screenshot: HOLI website (FAQ, color powder)

So you should look closely here, because there are often serious warnings that concern the following points:

  • Never aim powders and colors directly at the face. Inhaling the powders can cause health problems.
    Contact with the mucous membranes (eyes and mouth) with powder and colors can also lead to irritation and even allergic reactions. Some manufacturers even recommend wearing mouth, nose and eye protection when using the colors! These should definitely be used.
  • If possible, skin contact should only be for a short period of time.
    Irritation and even allergic reactions can also occur on the skin, especially if there is extensive skin contact.

    In the event of a reaction, the only thing that helps is to immediately remove the paint or powder or go to the paramedics immediately or notify a doctor immediately. Even without intolerance, we recommend taking a long shower and washing your hair before going to bed.
  • Clothing can protect
    Clothing that covers large parts of the body helps to keep the contact area between the body and the powder or colors as small as possible.

    Long-sleeved shirts, long pants and hats are very helpful here! However, experience reports show that the colors or powders can rarely be completely removed from clothing, which requires repeated washing to avoid permanent skin contact.
  • Color does not always come off completely immediately.
    It is also known that washing skin and hair is not always enough to completely remove the color powders.
    Even after repeated washing, residues can remain in the skin and especially pre-treated hair and scalp, which only wash out completely over time.

That's why Dr. recommends Andreas Butschke, to follow the health instructions of the Holi festival organizers or to contact them in advance if there is no information.

People with known allergies to components of these color powders or with known previous respiratory illnesses should definitely avoid these types of events for their own safety.

You might also be interested in:Fact check: Skin problems caused by artificial fingernails and nail polish!

Source : BVL


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