Holi is that time of the year when we let lose our wild side and have uninhibited fun and frolic . Holi is about celebrations with family and friends. But often in the spirit of celebration, we tend to ignore our skin and hair and have to bear the onslaught of post Holi chemical damage. Hear it from the expert, dermatologist and founder of Yavana Skin Aesthetics- Dr. Madhuri Agarwal. on how to avoid this damage.
The last few years, I have had people visiting me post Holi with the inability to remove the Holi colours or staining of the skin, and various hair problems and skin care reactions. These problems are increasing due to the use of metallic and harsh Holi colours.
Hence, I thought of sharing some tips to protect skin and hair and have a safe Holi:
Pre Holi care:
1.) Holi is generally towards the end of the winter season, where our skin is already dry and depleted of moisture. A dry skin is more vulnerable to chemical damage and skin problems. Hence, start moisturizing your skin a few days before Holi to minimize the skin damage. I suggest you try moisturizing the exposed areas like face, nape of neck, arms and legs at least 3-4 times a day. Use a dermatologist prescribed ceramide repair moisturizer such as Cetaphil Restoraderm or Bioderma Atoderm Intensive moisturizing lotion.
2.) On the day you set out to play Holi, apply the moisturizer all over the body 30-45 mins before you step out so it is well absorbed by the skin. It is also easier to remove the post Holi colours from a well moisturized skin than a dry one.
3.) Yes, a sunscreen is a must even when you go out to play Holi. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen on all the exposed areas and avoid makeup if possible.
4.) Wear clothes which cover the maximum surface of your body, such as full sleeves and full salwars or pants. Light, cotton colours are recommended for skin protection.
5.) Paint your nails bright, dark colours so that your nails and cuticles are protected.
6.) Coconut oil is a good source of hydration and nourishment for hair. Apply coconut hair to your scalp and hair before stepping out for Holi fun.
7.) Avoid too many hair treatments like straightening, highlights and blonde hair colours before Holi as it will dry the hair and make it more prone to hair damage.
8.) Tie up your hair instead of leaving it loose to reduce their exposure to colors and damage. Adding a bandana or scarf to hair ups the style quotient and also gives additional hair protection.
9.) I generally advise against skin treatments of any kind such as peels, lasers,etc just prior to Holi to avoid any adverse reactions. However, certain treatments like jet facials and dermal fillers like Restylane Vital or Juvederm are very popular and safe before Holi. These revive, hydrate and refurbish the skin and give the much needed festival glow.
10.) Try to stick to organic Holi colours. In case it is not always possible, and you develop a skin problem, visit your dermatologist.
Post Holi care:
1.) Once you come back from your Holi play, immediately wash off the Holi colours. Brush off the dry colours with your hands as they come off faster in this manner. After that, do a first wash with water and then use a soap free body wash to remove the colours. Avoid too much hot water for bathing.
2.) Home remedies for post Holi wash are : Use a mixture of sea salt, glycerine and a few drops of aroma oil as they have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effect and can take care of the bad effects of chemical colours. Alternatively, a paste of besan and milk can also be used for bathing.
3.) After bathing, the skin can be very dry as a lot of scrubbing is usually done to remove the Holi colours. Apply a thick repair moisturizer promptly and continue the routine for a few weeks.
4.) Use a sulphate free shampoo like Sebamed anti dry shampoo to wash off the colours and replenish the hair health.
5.) In case the skin looks irritated or dehydrated, visit your dermatologist to get it treated.
6.) Ensure a diet rich with antioxidants, proteins and lots of water to stay skin fit for Holi.
