Thursday, March 21, 2019

Keep your skin safe as you play Holi

— Ismat.Tahseen@timesgroup.com

21.03.2019

The vibrant festival of Holi is here. It’s time to splash that gulal on friends, have a fun water fight and indulge in thandai as well as other traditional sweets and savouries. But while the fun is set to be in full swing, it’s also a good idea to take care of the skin and hair as some colours contain chemicals and metals that can cause pimple breakouts, acne flare ups, frizzy hair and more.

EXPERTS SHARE TIPS TO FOLLOW TODAY…

Says consultant dermatologist Dr Shefali Trasi Nerurkar, “Holi is the favourite festival of colours. But with all the fun plans, let’s take out some time to protect our precious skin from harsh colours and water.” She shares a few pre and post-Holi tips (box)…

WATCH OUT FOR DERMATITIS

Dr Satish Bhatia, MD Dermatology and skin surgery, Indian Cancer Society, says that the most common reaction with Holi colours is ‘Irritant Contact Dermatitis’. He explains, “People develop some kind of eczema due to the high amount of petroleum or viscosity in the oil, which causes this irritation contact reactions. They develop blisters and can get a rash, which can last for a few days, so always play with water soluble colours. Another common reaction, which is seen due to a few colours are acne or pimples in minor forms, such as whiteheads or blackheads. Again, if the irritants are strong enough owing to the involvement of carbons inside, they may develop pustules or nodular acne.”

He adds, “Also, because of dermatitis, the patient should apply non-steroidal creams. They should opt for calming creams, which are commonly available over the counter. In case the allergic reaction is very severe and does not come down with topical applications, consult a dermatologist.”



Toxic colours can harm your skin

PRE-HOLI TIPS


Smear organic oil: Choose any oil available (coconut, almond, olive) and smear it all over the body and hair to form a protective coating. Oil is emollient, plus water repellent, which will make your skin ready to brave water colours.

Use a broad-spectrum sunblock: Since you will be out all day playing with colours and dancing, it’s a wise idea to protect skin and hair from sun damage.

Cover the hair and skin: Braid your hair to prevent breakage and, if you can go an extra mile, just wrap a scarf around head. It will make you look chic and act as a cover for the hair. Wear full-sleeved, synthetic clothes to prevent extra water retention.

Paint those nails: Paint nails in vibrant colours or clear nail paint to prevent the colours from getting into minute nail corners and irritating the nail folds.

Lip barrier: Don’t ignore your lips. Apply lip balm that contains SPF, which will protect your lips from sun damage and colour damage.

POST-HOLI TIPS

Rub off dry colour: Use an oil/ mild scrub to gently rub off the dry colour before getting into the shower, since dry colours disperse more in water.

Mild soap: Use a soap-free pH balanced cleanser/mild soap since you may need to use it thrice to take off rigid colours.

Conditioning hair: Apply a thick layer of conditioner to the hair, wait for two minutes then wash it off, to nourish the hair and detangle it in a mess-free way.

Thick layer of moisturiser: Apply a deep moisturising lotion all over the body to hydrate it as well as repair the barrier function and soothe irritated skin.

Drinks tons of water: Remember to drink lots of water throughout the day to combat the sun, dehydration and exhaustion.

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