Due to the pandemic and exposure to Holi colours, it is important to take precautionary measures, as sometimes it is not easy to remove the colors by yourself!
While you can prepare your skin and hair before going out to play Holi, and use some general tips like applying moisturizer and sunscreen on your face and body, and oiling your hair, and giving it a Tying in a bun, or even wearing a hat. Cover your hair, the color still penetrates you. And removing that color can be a daunting task, especially since Holi colors can be stubborn to remove, and can even damage your skin.
Dr Manasi Shirolikar, a Consultant Dermatologist, MBBS, DDVL explains how to clean your face and hair after playing Holi
1. Are you exposed to oil based Holi colours? It would be best if you use a cleansing balm or cleansing oil to remove the colors from your face (and body too). Double cleansing is a great way to remove your complexion without irritating or damaging your skin’s barrier. Follow it up with your face wash and mild body cleanser. To remove these dyes from your hair, use a deep cleansing, clarifying shampoo, and immediately follow it up with deep conditioning.
2. If you have played Holi with only dry colours, or are lucky enough to be covered in only dry colours, first gently remove the colors from your hair, face and body. After this, at least use face wash instead of soap for your face. For your hair, opt for a mild cleansing shampoo to remove color, and for your body, use a gentle, pH balanced soap that won’t irritate.
3. You may be tempted to scrub, peel or exfoliate your skin to remove any complexion – please don’t. This can cause an irritating reaction, which can lead to rashes. Use a gentle cleanser instead, and avoid scrubbing at all costs.
4. Holi colors make hair dry, so it is very important to use a hydrating hair mask after shampooing and conditioning the hair. In fact, continue to do this at least twice a week, until your hair returns to its normal texture.
5. Even though the internet is full of options, don’t try to use DIY or quick fixes to remove color from your hair, face or skin, as you could be doing more harm than good – these can react with the color. can cause a lot of damage. Continue using your regular facewash moisturizer and sunscreen but skip the active ingredients for a few days before and after Holi.
6. After your shower, apply a nice thick layer of moisturizer to your face and skin, and apply a leave-in conditioner, treatment, or serum to hydrate your hair.
7. Use soothing ingredients like Centella asiatica, aloe vera, calendula, niacinamide, or ceramides to soothe your skin and let it rest after exposure to some harsh colors.
If you follow these tips, you will be able to easily wash off any Holi colors by yourself without any damage. If, however, the irritation persists – see your nearest dermatologist!
So go there, have the best Holi ever, while also protecting your face, skin and hair from all kinds of damage.