PEAKLIFE

Holi is undoubtedly that time of the year when we let lose our wild side and have uninhibited fun. 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. Dr. Madhuri Agarwal, Dermatologist and Founder of Yavana Skin Aesthetics shares the best skin and hair care tips for a safe Holi pre and post Holi celebrations.

The last few years I have had people visiting me Post-Holi with the inability to remove the Holi colors or staining of skin with them, hair problems, and skin care reactions. These problems are increasing due to the use of metallic and harsh Holi colors. To avoid such troubles, here are my tips and tricks for playing safe and free of worries this Holi:

PRE-HOLI CARE:

1. Holi is generally towards the end of the winter season when 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 moisturizing the exposed areas like the face, nape of the neck, and the 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, 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 colors are recommended for skin protection.

5. Paint your nails bright, dark colors so that your nails and cuticles are protected.

6. Coconut oil is a good source of hydration and nourishment to 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 colors 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 colors. Brush off the dry colors 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 colors. Avoid too much hot water for bathing.

2. Home remedies for post Holi wash are: use a mixture of sea salt, glycerine, and few drops of aroma oil as they have antibacterial and antifungal effects and can take care of the bad effects of chemical colors. 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 colors. Apply a thick layer of 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 colors 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.

Disclaimer: The article is authored by Dr Madhuri Agarwal, Dermatologist, and Founder of Yavana Skin Aesthetics. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not represent those of PEAKLIFE.