Skin and Hair care tips for upcoming Holi - Experts

While Holi is celebrated with delectable sweets, thandai, loud music, and much excitement, a common issue that many face amidst the festivities is skin and hair damage.

“These days colours used on Holi are loaded with synthetic pigments that not only damage skin and hair but are also harmful to health. These colours can cause hair to become dull and brittle, and also damage our skin. It is important to equally care for the skin and hair,” says Pooja Nagdev, aromatherapist, cosmetologist and founder, Inatur.

Here’s a quick guide from experts on how to enjoy the festivities without worrying about your skin and hair.

Moisturise:

Hydrate your skin with loads of moisturiser a day before Holi. A well-hydrated skin is less fragile and will not be easily damaged.

Oiling:

On the previous night, apply coconut oil to your hair. On the day of Holi, apply baby oil on the body and coconut oil in your hair. Protect the lashes with a little application of baby oil and lips with lip balm. Women should preferably tie a ponytail or bun/pin it up.

Clothing:

Wear full sleeves clothes so that the damage is minimal.

Nail polish:

Wear polish to protect your nails.

Sunscreen:

Don’t forget to wear sunscreen. The sun is harsh and the oil on your face doesn’t protect you from getting tanned as you are out in the open all



day.

Water:

Drink a lot of water and stay hydrated.

Skin treatments:

Should you decide to play, don’t get any skin treatments — microdermabrasion, facials, waxing or threading done three-four days before Holi.

Nagdev suggests these DIY tips to make natural colours at home.

After you enjoy playing Holi, removing the colours is a task. Here are some post-care tips.

1.In a mug, mix lukewarm water and shower gel. Now, gently cleanse the body with this mixture using a loofah. Note that only gentle scrubbing is required. Do not over do as it may spoil the skin texture even more. Also, do not try to remove all colour at once.

2.Clean the eye lashes with ear bud or a wet wipe (the lids and corners).

3.Clean the ear lobes with an ear bud (the outer ear).

4.A water-based make-up remover is a good option to remove makeup.

5.Wash your face using mild cleansers.

6.Nails can be cleansed with a nail polish remover which is not very harsh, but do not use acetone.

7.Post shower, apply moisturiser to your body and hydrate lips well with a lip balm.

8.Hair tends to get a little rough post Holi. Opt for a hair spa.

However, in case of severe allergic reaction to the colours — it is advisable to take the opinion of a board-certified dermatologist. Mild steroids like hydrocortisone-based creams can be applied, but post consulting a dermatologist only.