Happy Holi 2019: Play it safe

Make sure that the festival of colours doesn't take a toll on your health, skin and hair. Here are expert-backed tips for you to enjoy a safe and healthy Holi.

Aishwarya Vaidya | Updated: March 20, 2019 11:45 am

Protect your skin, hair, eyes and lungs while playing Holi this year. © Shutterstock

“If winter comes, can spring be far behind?” wrote PB Shelly, one of the most loved poets of the Romantic era. In India, we can feel the advent of Spring during Holi, the festival of colours, which will be celebrated all across the country tomorrow. Clothes smeared with a curious mix of colours, unidentifiable faces hidden under the hues of pink, yellow, green, golden, silver and other unnamed shades, bhang, gujiyas and that all-too-familiar chant of ‘Bura na mano, Holi hai’–that is how our Holi looks, feels and tastes like. However, skin rashes, allergy in the eyes, a sudden asthma attack or an upset tummy can be the spoilsport amidst all the fun, thanks to artificial colours, popularly known as gulal. In rare cases, gulal can cause skin and bone marrow cancers also as some of the colours are high in carcinogenic toxins. Here we tell you how to enjoy a Holi safely this year.

SAVE YOUR SKIN

It is essential to protect your skin from the trauma caused by artificial colours loaded with chemicals like lead oxide, mercury sulphide and other toxic elements. © Shutterstock

It is essential to protect your skin from the trauma caused by artificial colours loaded with chemicals like lead oxide, mercury sulphide and other toxic elements. “These chemicals may penetrate your skin and can also lead to various other health problems apart from dermatological issues,” says Dr. Apratim Goel, dermatologist and laser surgeon Director, Cutis skin studio, Mumbai. “If you wish to minimize the incidences of dermatological problems, apply mustard oil on your skin at least 30 minutes before heading out to play Holi. You should apply a water-proof sunscreen on the top of it,” she adds. Moreover, you can also apply cream on your nails, feet, elbows, and back of the ears colours stick to these parts of the body. If you have a history of skin allergy or rash, take an anti-histamine tablet before you start playing with colours. This will help you avoid in the previous night to avoid skin irritation,” says Dr. Goel.

Trimming your nails will be good as it is difficult to clean them properly. Colours stuck in your nails can sneak into your food as well. Other ways to protect your skin:

Wear full-sleeved clothes

You must cover your body by wearing full-sleeved clothes while playing Holi. © Shutterstock

Make sure that you wear clothes which can help you cover your whole body. “Moreover, you can also try and wear a swimsuit underneath your clothes as it doesn’t hold those harmful colours to your skin,” says Dr. Goel.

Opt for natural colours

You can use turmeric powder to make a natural yellow hue

“You should buy organic colours. They don’t harm the skin. Making your own colours at home is another option. You can experiment with different products like henna, turmeric powder, dry rose petals and other dried flower petals. These are skin-friendly ingredients,” suggests Dr. Goel. Also, apply a good dermat-recommended moisturizer before someone smears colour on you.

COLOUR-PROOF YOUR LOCKS

Artificial colours jam-packed with chemicals can make your hair dry. © Shutterstock

“Artificial colours jam-packed with chemicals can make your hair dry, making them dry out brittle and frizzy. So, shield your tresses by massaging the scalp and mane with either oil or a leave- in conditioner. Don’t forget to wear a cap, or scarf before stepping out to play Holi,” advises Dr. Goel.

GUARD YOUR EYES

If those artificial colours sneak into your eyes, they may cause irritation and even lead to swelling. © Shutterstock

If those artificial colours sneak into your eyes, they may cause irritation and even lead to swelling. Your eyes may turn red and itchy. So, it is essential to take all the necessary precautions to protect your peepers. Wearing sunglasses while playing Holi may be a good option. Don’t forget to remove your contact lenses before heading out for the celebrations. In case the colour goes into your eyes, immediately splash some water. If the irritation persists, then you must consult an ophthalmologist. Be alert so that you can duck those water-filled balloons before they hit your eyes.

PROTECT YOUR LUNGS

If you are suffering from asthma, then avoid dry colours. Since kerosene is an ingredient used in these dry artificial colours, they can trigger an asthma attack. Inform everybody around you in advance about your condition so that they don’t smear colours on your face. You can also try wearing a mask while celebrating the festival of colours.

POST-HOLI TIPS FOR YOUR SKIN AND HAIR

Dr. Apratim Goel shares essential tips that you must follow after the celebrations. They will helpyou revive your damaged locks and skin.

Lemon juice is a powerful natural whitening agent. You can apply it once you return home after playing Holi. Leave it for 20 minutes on your skin and wash it off with lukewarm water. Moisturize your skin immediately. You can also pamper it with warm olive oil to get rid of that stubborn colour.
Wash your hair thoroughly immediately after the celebrations are over. Don’t forget to use a conditioner after applying shampoo.
Don’t go for bleaching, waxing or facial for a week after Holi. It will be good if you could avoid them even during the week before this festival.
Watch out for skin rashes and hair-related issues. If they don’t subside on their own, consult a dermatologist. Avoid self-medication. Over-the-counter medicines may further aggravate your issues.

Published: March 20, 2019 7:39 am | Updated:March 20, 2019 11:45 am

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