PREPARE YOUR SKIN FOR HOLI

Before evolving in a multi-coloured canvas, you should think the effects such myriad colours will have on your skin. Here is a guide to help enjoy the fun and frolic.

The spring festival of Holi is one of the major festivals of the country. The carnival of colours is a beautiful event but in the guise of merriment our skin and hair get subjected to unwanted and harmful synthetic chemicals. These can further lead allergies, brittle hair, skin infections and other complications. Therefore, it is best to play holi with natural and herbal colours.

Here are a tips to protect your skin and scalp from damage:

1. Use coconut or mustard oil all over the body. These oils make it easier to wash away the colours. You could also use cold creams and petroleum jelly.
2. Wear clothes which cover the whole body. Long sleeve tops and full pants help in minimising exposure to the colours.
3. Use sunscreen and sunglasses when outdoors.
4. Harsh chemicals in colours can dehydrate your skin. Therefore, drink a lot of water before going out to play.
5. The effects of washing colours can be dehydrating for the skin, it is advisable to undergo hydration procedures like medi-facials and hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm a week before the festival.
6. Lukewarm water should be used to wash off the colours from the face. Applying a mixture of glycerin, sea salt and aroma oil which help fight bacteria and infections.
7. Trim your fingernails properly. Thick and bright nail polish helps in protecting the nails from toxic colours.
8. Use lip balm or lipstick for moisturising and protecting the lips.
9. Avoid make up while playing as the colors can easily stick with the makeup and thus the skin.

The real task starts after the holi madness dies down. Here are a few DIY remedies for you to try:

– Try some homemade packs to help the skin regain its natural glow. A paste of papaya, lemon juice and milk powder work wonders for oily skin. Apply and leave it for about 20 minutes. Rinse off and pat dry.

– As far as dry skin is concerned, a teaspoon of honey and half mashed banana are enough to take care of it. Add some salt to the solution before you scrub the skin. Wash thoroughly to take the colours off the body.

– It is not advisable to undergo any cosmetic procedure for 7-10 days after holi if the colour remains on the skin.

Let’s play holi in a safe manner and ensure that our skin remains unblemished.

Follow Dr Chiranjiv Chhabra on Facebook and her website.