There was a time when it was widely believed that applying kajal to children’s eyes brought good luck. It was thought to ward off the evil eye and enhance a child’s beauty. However, what was once considered
a harmless tradition is now turning into a health concern for children.
Recently, several cases have emerged in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, where children developed eye irritation, swelling, and infections after kajal was applied. These incidents have raised serious concerns among doctors and parents alike.
What Doctors Say About Store-Bought Kajal
Speaking to Local18, paediatrician Dr Gunjan Patel explained that most kajal available in the market today is not pure. It often contains harmful chemicals, carbon, lead, and other toxic substances that can be extremely dangerous for children’s sensitive eyes.
Dr Gunjan Patel pointed out that the skin around the eyes of newborns and young children is very delicate. Even a small amount of chemical exposure can cause serious damage, making unregulated kajal products especially unsafe for infants.
Health Problems Linked To Kajal Use
According to Dr Gunjan, applying chemically-laced kajal can lead to watery eyes, constant rubbing, redness, itching, and swelling. In severe cases, infections become so serious that medical treatment and eye drops are required.
Using such kajal products over a long period can damage the cornea and may even weaken a child’s eyesight. Because of these risks, Dr Gunjan strongly advises against applying any kind of kajal to children’s eyes.
Strict Warning For Infants Below One Year
Doctors stress that kajal should never be applied to children under one year of age. If parents feel it is absolutely necessary, they should completely avoid store-bought kajal.
Kajal can also cause allergies, bacterial infections, swelling of the eye nerves, boils on the eyelids, and continuous watering of the eyes. These complications highlight how dangerous the practice can be.
Science Over Tradition
Dr Gunjan emphasises that scientific understanding is more important than tradition when it comes to protecting a child’s health. Experimenting with children’s eyes can have lifelong consequences.
For eye hygiene, doctors recommend using only a clean cloth and boiled, cooled water. If any redness, swelling, or irritation is noticed, parents should consult a doctor immediately.
