Holi is a festival of joy, color, and togetherness. People celebrate it with friends and family. Gulal plays a big role in this festival. But not every gulal is safe for the skin. Many people face rashes, itching, dryness, or eye irritation after Holi. This happens because of poor-quality colours.
Before reading this guide, you might want to refer to our earlier article “Holi : Meaning, Types, Uses, and Buying Guide” (होली गुलाल: अर्थ, प्रकार, उपयोग और खरीदारी मार्गदर्शिका), which explains the basic types of gulal and how to choose them. That article builds the foundation, and this one focuses specifically on skin safety.
Why Skin Safety Matters During Holi
People apply gulal directly on the face, hair, and body. Skin stays in contact with colour for many hours. Unsafe Colour can harm the skin. It can cause allergies, redness, and infections. It can also damage hair and eyes.
Children and people with sensitive skin face a higher risk. That is why choosing safe products is important.
What Makes Gulal Unsafe?
Many gulals in the market use cheap materials. These materials reduce cost but increase harm.
Unsafe ones may contain:
- Industrial dyes
- Heavy metals
- Chemical pigments
- Synthetic fragrances
- Harsh fillers
These substances can damage skin cells. They can clog pores. They can also cause long-term skin problems.
Types of Gulal Available in the Market
You will mainly find three types of gulal.
1. Chemical-Based
This gulal uses synthetic colours. It gives bright shades. It costs less. But it often irritates skin. It may cause itching or burning.
2. Starch-Based
This gulal uses food-grade starch. Manufacturers add approved colours. It feels soft on skin. It spreads well. It washes off easily. This type suits most people if made properly.
3. Herbal
Herbal ones uses natural ingredients. It stays gentle on skin. It costs more. It gives softer shades.
Not all non-herbal gulal is unsafe. Many starch-based remain skin-friendly if made with care.
If you want a full list for types, uses, and how to choose them, see our detailed guide here:
👉 Holi Gulal: Meaning, Types, Uses, and Buying Guide
(होली गुलाल: अर्थ, प्रकार, उपयोग और खरीदारी मार्गदर्शिका)
How to Identify Skin-Safe Gulal
Always check these points before buying.
Check the Ingredients
Look for ‘made from starch’ or ‘herbal’ bases. Avoid products that hide ingredient details. Clear labeling shows brand honesty.
Look for Certifications
FSSAI-grade starch matters. It ensures food-grade quality. This reduces skin risk.
Check the Texture
Safe colour feels soft and smooth. It should not feel gritty or rough. Rough texture can damage skin.
Check the Smell
Good product smells mild. Strong perfume means added chemicals. Avoid strong fragrance.
Check Washability
Safe ones washes off easily with water. Hard-to-remove colour may contain chemicals.
Buy From Trusted Brands
Choose known brands or manufacturers like Shaktirang. Avoid loose, unpacked colours. Cheap roadside ones often lacks safety checks.
Is Herbal Gulal Always Better?
Herbal works well for sensitive skin. But not all herbal claims are true. Some sellers misuse the word “herbal” for marketing.
Always check:
- Ingredient list
- Brand details
- Packaging quality
A well-made starch-base can be as safe as herbal.
Skin Safety Tips Before Playing Holi
Even safe needs care. Follow these steps:
- Apply oil or moisturizer before playing
- Tie your hair and apply oil to scalp
- Wear full-sleeve clothes
- Use sunglasses to protect eyes
These steps reduce skin contact and irritation.
Skin Care After Holi
Post-Holi care matters a lot.
- Wash skin gently with mild soap
- Avoid scrubbing hard
- Use moisturizer after washing
- Apply soothing gel if skin feels irritated
Never use harsh chemicals to remove colour.
Safety measures for Children
Children have soft skin. They absorb chemicals faster. Always choose mild colours for kids.
Use:
- Starch-based
- Low-fragrance
- Light shades
Avoid dark or neon colours.
Common Myths About Gulal Safety
“Bright colour means better gulal”
This is false. Bright colour often means more chemicals.
“Only herbal gulal is safe”
This is also false. Well-made starch base is safe too.
“Natural means no reaction”
Even natural ingredients can cause allergies in some people. Always test first.
How to Test Gulal Before Use
Do a patch test:
- Apply a small amount on wrist
- Wait for 30 minutes
- Check for redness or itching
If skin reacts, do not use the product.
Final Buying Checklist
Before buying gulal, ask yourself:
- Is it starch-based or herbal?
- Does it feel soft?
- Does it wash easily?
- Is the packaging clear and secure?
- Are test reports available?
If the answer is yes, the product is likely safe.
Conclusion
Choosing the right colour keeps Holi fun and safe. Do not buy any Holi product only by price or colour. Focus on quality and safety. Starch-based or herbal products with safe pigments work well for most people. Always read labels and buy from trusted sellers.
Celebrate Holi with vibrant colours and happy memories. Choose safe gulal and enjoy the festival without skin worries.
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