Sandhya Raghavan
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Written By: Sandhya Raghavan | Published : October 23, 2017 8:00 AM IST
Diwali is over and the dust has now finally settled, quite literally in your pores. Yikes! During and after Diwali, smoke and dust particles resulting from the week-long festivities stay suspended in the air for a long time. These toxic chemicals in the firecrackers also add to the noxious, polluted air. So if you are someone with a problematic, acne-prone skin, you will notice that your face isn't looking its best. Dr Rinky Kapoor, consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist and dermatosurgeon, SL Raheja Hospital, A Fortis Associate says, " The particles which stay up in the air for hours post bursting crackers, can sit on oily skin and clog pores, giving rise to multiple comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) causing increase in existing acne."
Dr Kapoor says that toxic chemicals let out by the firecrackers can irritate sensitive, pimple-prone skin and can cause something known as chemical acne. In fact, Diwali can also exacerbate acne-related conditions such as rashes, hyperpigmentation, blisters etc. So bring out your face packs and scrubs; now's the time for some good old-fashioned post-Diwali cleaning.
(Read: Expert tips on how to take care of your skin this Diwali)
Unclog your pores
Acne-prone skins need to be cleaned properly to remove the smoke and dust traces from the pores. The doctor suggests that you use water-based cleansers or micellar water to clean acne-prone skins to minimise the damage. Keep your wet wipes handy and also carry a micellar solution with you," says Dr Kapoor. If makeup is a must, trust a good quality brand. "Poor quality makeup might suffocate your skin," she adds.
(Read: Diwali special: Tips to make your skin glow)
Cover up
Stepping out in the days after Diwali should be done with care. "If you are exposed to a lot of smoke in the air during and after Diwali, one can cover the face with a cloth to reduce contact. One should also wash the face and exposed areas immediately afterwards, to wash off harmful chemicals," suggests Dr Kapoor.
Wash your face twice
Despite your best care, your skin can still get affected by the harsh pollutants, dirt and dust suspended in the air in the days following Diwali. So if you must step out, keeping wet wipes handy is a good way to instantly cleanse your face according to Dr Kapoor. "Apart from that, wash your face twice a day with a good face wash that suits your skin type. That would be enough as long as there is no repeated exposure. Oily skins should be treated to a scrub application twice a week," she adds.
Cleanse from within
Despite what you do to undo the damage Diwali has done to your skin, remember that cleansing should also be done from within with a good diet. "A lot of sweets, drinks and farsan are consumed during Diwali, you need to restrict this consumption. Try to substitute these with soaked dry fruits, vegetable salads and fresh fruits, whenever possible. Count your calories at the end of the day, so you know that you are crossing your limits and to beware. What you eat reflects on your skin, hair and also on your belly. Keep yourself hydrated and don t forget to drink water," Dr Kapoor concludes.
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