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Gunjiyas, pichkaris, gulal, thandai and laughter. That’s what Holi symbolises for all of us but among all the swirls of colorful madness it’s vital to remember some basic safety rules. Sadly, gulal is now passé. Brighter, toxic chemical colors, and dyes are often used, and according to experts, these can cause severe skin infections, eye injuries, and even hair loss. Renowned dermatologist and cosmetologist Dr. Shefali Trasi Nerurkar says, “The use of synthetic colours during Holi often causes severe skin irritation, dermatitis, burning and redness that can be very distressing. In some cases, the irritation is so severe that it leads to irreversible pigmentation
She explains that most watercolours have an alkaline base and if splashed into eyes can cause temporary blindness and corneal abrasions. Colours in the form of pastes usually have toxic compounds mixed in a base of engine oil. Chemical colours are also cheaper alternatives to herbal pigments and many people tend to opt for them without realising how toxic these can be.
Unless you have the time and energy to embrace your inner Nara Smith and create the Holi colours from scratch, your best bet is to trust the colours available in the market. Now, the colour damage might be inevitable, but with the right pre and post care, you can enjoy Holi without ruining your skin, hair, body, or nails too much. So, without further ado, here are some non-negotiables when it comes to Holi skincare. These tips are going to make you enjoy the season of colours more carefree.
Top 8 Holi Tips For A Safe & Enjoyable Holi
1. Holi Safety Tip #1: Protecting Your Nails
Protecting your nails is equally important as they bear the brunt of all the colour. “To protect your nails from Holi colors, you must apply nail paint,” says Dr. Trasi. Start by applying a top coat for added protection and to prevent staining nails.
Nykaa Recommends:2. Holi Safety Tip #2: Protecting Your Hair
She also suggests generously oiling strands before playing with colours to form a protective shield on your hair and prevent the color from seeping into the scalp. “Simply shampooing after your fun session is not enough to restore your crowning glory,” she says.
Nykaa Recommends:3. Holi Safety Tip #3: Protecting Your Teeth
During Holi, the chances of colour entering the mouth are high. “This can affect the colour of your teeth. To be on the safer side, it’s advisable to wear dental caps to protect your teeth from getting damaged, especially if you have veneers and caps. If nothing, just keep your mouth tightly shut whenever someone applies colour.” You can also use a teeth whitening strip or powder if you stain your teeth.
Nykaa Recommends:4. Holi Safety Tip #4: Covering Maximum Skin
She also recommends covering as much of your skin as possible while playing Holi. “Wear a scarf on your head to protect your hair. Wear full sleeved clothing and long pants or a salwar so that as little as possible of your skin is exposed.
Nykaa Recommends:5. Holi Safety Tip #5: Protecting Your Eyes
Keep your eyes closed whenever someone is applying colour, or better still, put on a pair of sunglasses”, she adds. In case color does enter your eye, resist the temptation to rub them and instead splash plain water immediately. “Then use a dropper to apply Rose Water to your eyes and rest them. This will cool the irritation
Nykaa Recommends:6. Holi Safety Tip #6: Moisturising Skin Post Holi
When all the fun is over, use a good moisturising face wash on your face. “Holi colors can be very drying and using soap or harsh facewashes can irritate the skin further.” Applying a good moisturising cream after your bath will also help restore your skin’s lipid balance and soothe irritated skin.
Nykaa Recommends:7. Holi Safety Tip #7: Home Remedy To Remove Stubborn Holi Colour
A simple home remedy to fade stubborn color: Make a mixture of Gram Flour, sweet Almond Oil, and Milk Cream in Rose Water. Apply the paste on areas where the color is deepest. Let the paste dry on the skin and rub it gently to remove it.
Nykaa Recommends:8. Holi Safety Tip #8: Moisturising Skin Pre Holi
You should apply mustard oil or moisturizer before stepping out to play Holi. This prevents the color from sticking to skin and allows for easy removal. She also recommends applying a good sunscreen with at least SPF 30 all over your arms, legs and face to diminish the effect of color on the body.
Nykaa Recommends:Parting Thoughts
Holi season is hands down the best season to unwind with your friends, neighbours, and family members. It creates a vibe for adults to embrace their inner child with colours, water guns, dancing to playful songs while being drenched in water. But that also means staining your skin, hair, and precious nails with colours and having to scrub it out vigorously. Fret not, the eight tips we have shared with you, if followed, will help you stay Holi-safe this festival of colours.
FAQs
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How to protect my skin during Holi?
Because there will be a lot of colours and water thrown at you, chances are your skin, hair, and nails might get stained or dried out. Apply loads of coconut oil or almond oil to your hair, skin, and nails before you step out to play. You can also use sweat and water-resistant sunscreens if you are going to be in direct sun for a long time. We also recommend applying petroleum jelly to your lips and eyelids to protect from cracking.
How to remove Holi colours from my skin?
Pour lukewarm water on your skin, and use a gentle cleanser. Don’t rub your skin harshly or use exfoliators immediately after playing Holi, as the skin gets sensitive. But fret not, even the most stubborn colours can be lifted within a few washes.
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How to soothe skin after playing Holi?
Make sure that you play with skin-safe colours, and not harmful colours, full or metallic and toxic chemicals. But even the most skin-safe colours can leave sensitive skin itchy, so make sure you apply coconut oil , aloe vera gel , or a moisturiser that suits sensitive skin
Nykaa Recommends: -
Should I exfoliate my skin after Holi?
It is ideal to use a gentle cleanser and avoid exfoliators to protect sensitive skin. After a few days, if the stain still remains, you can also use physical scrubs or chemical exfoliators to clean out the colours and tan from your pores.
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How should I protect my lips during Holi?
You can apply petroleum jelly or a water-resistant lip balm with SPF to protect your puckers from water, colours, and the sun
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