Holi is that time of the year when we let loose our wild side and have uninhibited fun and frolic. The festival of colours is all about celebrating 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. We spoke to Dr. Madhuri Agarwal, a dermatologist and founder and medical director of Yavana Aesthetics, about the prep and prime you should commit to if you want to avoid rashes, dry skin or damage later.

“In the last few years, I have had people visit me post-holi with an inability to remove the Holi colours or staining of the skin with them, 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,” shares Dr. Madhuri Agarwal.

Pre-Holi Care:

1. Moisturising is the Key

Holi is generally towards the end of the winter season, when our skin is already dry and depleted of moisture. Dry skin is more vulnerable to chemical damage and skin problems. Hence, start moisturising your skin a few days before Holi to minimise the skin damage. Moisturise the exposed areas like the face, nape of the neck, arms and legs at least 3–4 times a day. Use a dermatologist-prescribed ceramide repair moisturiser such as Cetaphil Restoraderm or Bioderma Atoderm Intensive moisturising lotion.

On the day you set out to play Holi, apply the moisturiser all over the body 30-45 minutes 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-moisturised skin than a dry one.

2. Hair Care

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. Avoid too many hair treatments, like straightening, highlights and blonde hair colours, before Holi, as it will dry the hair and make it more susceptible to hair damage. Don’t forget to tie up your hair instead of leaving it loose to reduce its exposure to colour and damage. Adding a bandana or scarf to your hair ups the style quotient and also gives additional hair protection.

3. Protect your Skin

Sunscreen is a must, even when you go out to play Holi. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to all the exposed areas, and avoid makeup if possible. Wear clothes that cover the maximum surface of your body, such as full sleeves and full salwars or pants. Light, cotton colours are recommended for skin protection. Paint your nails bright, dark colours so that your nails and cuticles are protected.

4. Avoid Treatments

Avoid skin treatments of any kind, such as peels, lasers, etc., just prior to Holi to prevent 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, giving it a much-needed festival glow.

Try to stick to organic Holi colours. If 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 work wonders for post Holi wash. Use a mixture of sea salt, glycerine and a few drops of aroma oil, as they have antibacterial and antifungal effects 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 moisturiser 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’s health.

5. If 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.