Holi 2026: Doctors Flag Common Mistakes That Can Harm Your Ears

As Holi approaches, ENT specialists are urging revellers to celebrate responsibly, warning that common festive practices can lead to avoidable ear, nose and throat complications.

Dr Ravinder Gera, Principal Director and Head of ENT at Max Hospital, Gurugram, says synthetic colours — often containing harmful chemicals and heavy metals — can pose serious risks when they come into contact with sensitive ENT structures.

How Holi Can Harm Your Ears

Chemical-based colours can enter the external auditory canal (EAC) and irritate its delicate lining. This may result in:

• Intense itching and pain
• Damage to the protective skin barrier
• Otitis externa (outer ear infection)
• Otomycosis (fungal ear infection)

Contact dermatitis, which can worsen due to repeated scratching

Moisture is another major concern. Water trapped inside the ears after celebrations creates a warm, damp environment ideal for bacterial and fungal growth, significantly increasing the risk of infection.

High-pressure water sprays or direct hits from water balloons can cause more severe injury. The force of impact may rupture the eardrum, leading to sudden pain, ear discharge, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and temporary or even permanent hearing loss. In rare instances, fragments of burst balloons can become lodged inside the ear canal.

Excessive exposure to loud music and DJs is equally dangerous. High-decibel sound levels can cause acoustic trauma, damaging the delicate structures of the inner ear. Persistent symptoms such as ear pain, dizziness (vertigo) or reduced hearing should never be ignored and require prompt medical evaluation.

Risks to Nose and Throat

The effects of Holi festivities extend beyond the ears.

Epistaxis (nosebleeds): Can result from dryness, irritation or forceful application of colours.

Nasal vestibulitis: Infection of the nasal vestibule caused by chemical irritants. Though it may appear minor, it can spread to the “danger triangle” of the face and lead to serious complications.

Allergic rhinitis: Dry colour powders can act as allergens, triggering sneezing, congestion and watery eyes.

Acute rhinosinusitis: Exposure to contaminated water may lead to sinus infections.

Pharyngitis and laryngitis: Ingesting contaminated water or excessive shouting during celebrations can inflame the throat and vocal cords. In severe cases, vocal strain may cause hematoma or mucosal injury.

Preventive Measures to Follow

To minimise risks, Dr Gera advises:

• Using earplugs during loud celebrations
• Limiting exposure to high-volume music
• Choosing organic, skin-friendly colours
• Keeping ears dry and avoiding insertion of objects to clean them
• Avoiding forceful water balloon throwing
• Limiting shouting or prolonged strain on the voice

Holi is a celebration of colour and community, but taking simple precautions can help ensure the festivities do not result in long-term ENT complications.