Holi 2019: Holi is a time when man and nature throw off the gloom of winter and rejoice in the colours and liveliness of spring. Holi without colours is completely meaningless and lifeless and with the use of colours, your beauty is in danger. Traditionally, Holi was played by the colours made of flower extracts. The fragrant natural colours also had therapeutic value that not only ensured a safe Holi but were also beneficial for skin and health.

However, chemicals and other toxic substances slowly replaced flowers and herbs in the colours. The chemical induced colours can cause several skin and hair disorders. Skin disorders like discoloration, contact dermatitis, abrasion, irritation, itching and dryness are the common problems which are seen post Holi. Harsh chemicals in the colours can cause itching and rashes which can lead to eczemas upon scratching. This is the most common type of reaction seen by dermatologists after Holi. Dry skin leaves a lot of scope for these harmful chemicals as the skin layer allows the colour to penetrate easily. The hair is very prone to getting spoiled with these chemicals. It can turn brittle and extremely dry if the Holi colours remain unwashed for long. Though no serious damage is done on the roots or scalp, the hair begins to break.

However, if you pay attention to certain things before and after Holi, you don’t have to worry.

Pre-Holi protective measures 

Before going out to play Holi, apply either castor oil or olive oil to the hair. The oil will form a layer over the hair and when you will wash you hair the colours will come off easily. Apply moisturiser to your hands, face and all the exposed body parts. Wear dark colour nail paints so that the nails do not get coloured. Later remove the nail paint. Also do not forget to apply foundation before because this will protect your skin from dry colours. Apply a lip balm too.

Precautionary measures for children 

Discourage your children to play Holi with eggs, mud, tar or gutter water. Do not allow them to play near the bonfires. Keep a barrel or bucket filled with water nearby in case of an emergency. Instruct your child to close their eyes if someone applies throws colour at them. As the skin of children is more sensitive, try to avoid chemical induced colours. Rather try to create natural colours by using turmeric, beetroot and henna. A generous application of cold cream on the body, and oil on the hair and scalp of your child should help.

Post-Holi protective measures 

After celebrating Holi, it is important to remove colour and replenish and rejuvenate the skin. Always use cold water to remove the colours. Do not wash your face repeatedly. This will make your face dry. Do not rub your skin with any rough thing. This will make your skin itchy. Apply coconut oil with the help of cotton and then try to remove the colours. To lighten the colour, rub lemon wedges and then apply wheat flour and oil mixture. Apply moisturiser to the entire body immediately after a bath. If you are planning a bleach or facial then wait for at least a week. Applying soaked amchur powder also helps get rid of colour.

(The writer is dermatologist and cosmetologist, doctor of wellness and lifestyle medicine)