Colours, sweets and unrestrained fun is synonymous to Holi. However, in the midst of all the fun and frolic, we forget to care for our health and end up with multiple issues after Holi celebrations. Skin rashes, allergies, eye infections, hair fall, are some among the few aftermaths we go through. Holi colours were originally made from spring flowers and herbs which never caused any harm to skin or hair, but the present scenario sells Holi colours made from harmful chemicals and industrial dyes. Itchiness, dermatitis, abrasion, rashes, eczema are the some of the most common skin problems dermatologists treat after Holi. It’s better we take preventive measures before we damage our skin and hair.
Skin Care Tips for Holi -
Skin is the largest organ in the human body. Let’s not damage it with industrial dyes, acids, heavy metals and powdered glass found in the colours. Opt for organic Holi colours that are safe for your skin and can be equally enjoyed. Some tips to save your skin this Holi:
- Wear full-sleeves that cover most parts of your body. Take care that colours don’t touch your bare skin. Chemicals like the lead oxide, mercury sulphide, aluminium bromide and copper sulphate are some harmful components that make up colours these days. Avoid bright colours like purple, black, green, dark red, orange, silver. They are the most harmful. Use colours like pink or light red.
- Apply a thick layer of moisturiser or slather adequate amount of coconut oil on your face, neck, hands and legs. This way colours won’t get absorbed into your skin and it will be easy to wash off the ones that got onto your skin.
- Use a waterproof sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.
- Get rid of contact lens, if you are wearing any. Protect your eyes with sunglasses. If colour enters your eyes by accident, rinse with ample cold water immediately. Avoid rubbing your eyes. Visit an optometrist if irritation persists.
- Take a bath immediately after playing Holi. Don’t use harsh soaps or detergents, kerosene, spirit to remove colour stains. A mild soap with warm water should be your cleaning toiletries.
- If you experience itching or redness, immediately wash it with water. Apply a calamine lotion or aloe vera gel and avoid sun exposure. If allergic reactions persist, consider visiting a dermatologist.
- Protect your lips with oil and a UV protected lip balm.
- Apply a liberal amount of vaseline on your nails, cuticles and the adjacent areas. This will prevent staining of your nails.
- If you still have traces of colour on your skin, use a paste of besan with milk to apply on the affected areas of skin.
Hair Care Tips for Holi -
The aftermath our hair faces after Holi cries out for help. Brittle, dry and hair fall, our hair loses all its shine and lustre. Follow these tips and your hair will thank you:
- Massage your hair and scalp thoroughly with coconut oil and keep it overnight. At least an hour before Holi celebrations will also do the trick.
- Cover your head. Tie a scarf, bandana or just throw in a cap and you’re good to go. Also, do not let your hair down. Tie it up into a ponytail, bun or a braid.
- Don’t apply shampoo directly on hair. Rinse off all the colours till the water runs clear and then wash with a baby shampoo followed by conditioner.
- If you suffer persistent itchy scalp, better consult a dermatologist.
Precautions for kids -
Young ones enjoy Holi the most with colours, gulal, water and sweets. Parents should be in control. Take care of your child this Holi.
- A strict NO to locally available colours. Organic colours are the way to go.
- Take the initiative and make natural colours for them with henna, hibiscus flowers, marigold petals, turmeric powder and rose petals among other substances.
- Encourage your child to play with only water in spray guns.
- Take care that the colours don’t enter the eyes or mouth. The toxic in the colours might lead to allergic reactions and respiratory problems.
- Teach your child certain Holi etiquettes:
- DO NOT allow them to play with water balloons. If hit at the wrong places, they might cause serious injury.
- Don’t allow them to throw colours on animals.
Enjoy a happy, safe and healthy Holi!
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