Parenting Tips: Is It Safe To Apply Surma (Kajal) In A Newborn's Eyes?

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Surma aka kajal, kohl is applied to the eyes of both adults and children, as it is believed to have medicinal and cosmetic benefits. It is a dark powder made by grinding various substances, including lead, charcoal, and herbs.

However, there is debate about whether it is safe to apply surma in a newborn baby's eyes. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of using surma in a newborn baby's eyes and help you parents in making the right decision for your little one.

Is It Safe To Apply Surma (Kajal) In A Newborn's Eyes?

In some cultures, it is customary to apply surma to a baby's eyes shortly after birth as a way to ward off evil spirits and protect against infections. However, in recent years, there have been reports of lead poisoning and other health problems associated with the use of surma for babies.

What's more, in one study conducted in India, researchers found that more than half of the surma samples tested contained dangerous levels of lead [1]. On the other hand, some parents swear by the benefits of using surma in their baby's eyes.

In a survey of parents conducted in Pakistan, more than 80% reported using surma on their babies' eyes and believed it to be safe and effective. Many parents cited the antimicrobial properties of surma as a key reason for using it, as they felt it helped prevent eye infections [2].

1. Benefits of using surma in a newborn baby's eyes

• One of the main benefits of using surma in a newborn baby's eyes is that it is believed to have antimicrobial properties that can protect the baby from infections.
• Surma is also thought to stimulate tear production, which can help keep the eyes moist and prevent dryness.
• Additionally, surma is believed to improve vision and reduce eye strain, which can be especially beneficial for babies who are exposed to bright lights and screens [3].

2. Risks of using surma in a newborn baby's eyes

Despite the potential benefits, there are also some risks associated with using surma in a newborn baby's eyes.

• The main concern is the presence of lead in some types of surma, which can be harmful if ingested or absorbed into the body.
• Lead poisoning can cause serious health problems, including developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioural issues [4].
• Other risks of using surma in a newborn baby's eyes include eye irritation, infection, and allergic reactions.

3. Alternatives to using surma in a newborn baby's eyes

Given the potential risks of using surma in a newborn baby's eyes, it may be safer to explore alternative options for eye care [5].

• One simple and effective method for keeping a baby's eyes clean and healthy is to use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any discharge or debris.
• It is also important to keep the baby's environment clean and free from dust and other irritants.

If the baby has persistent eye problems or symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

On A Final Note...

The use of surma in a newborn baby's eyes is a topic of debate for sure. While there are potential benefits to using surma, such as its antimicrobial properties, there are also significant risks, including lead poisoning and other health issues.

Therefore, it is important for parents to weigh the pros and cons of using surma and to consider alternative options for eye care. If parents do choose to use surma, they should take care to select a high-quality product that is free from harmful substances and to seek medical advice if any problems or symptoms arise.