Youth Incorporated Magazine

It’s that time of the year when the colours find their way into the air making the environment completely colourful. These same colours also make their way onto our skin and hair causing much damage. Whether you like it or not, there is no escape from getting smeared with colours during Holi. Skin and hair damage from the chemical-based and stubborn colours must not stand in the way of us celebrating Holi. 

We are here to help you with tips that will totally have your skin and hair protected. No matter how strong the colours are, there are things you can do at your end that will avoid any kind of skin and hair damage. 

Here are some:

• Wear clothes that will cover your body like a full sleeve shirt and full bottoms. This will keep the colours from coming in direct contact with the skin and causing irritation.

• Applying oil all over the exposed parts of the body is a must. You have to apply oil even on your face as well as your hair. Tie up your hair tight so its exposure to colour stay limited. You can also use a scarf or a bandana to cover your hair. Men can use caps to serve the same purpose.

• Apply sunscreen lotion after applying oil. You should preferably use a gel-based waterproof sunscreen. This is also recommended if you will be under the sun for long hours.

• Cut your nails short as colours seem to easily find a place under the nails. Apply thick nail paint on your fingernails as well as toenails. This will avoid your nails to catch a stubborn colour.

• Make use of sunglasses. It is not wise to step out for Holi without your sunglasses. Wearing sunglasses protects the eyes from coming in contact with colours.

• Keey drinking water so that your body, mainly, the skin stays hydrated.

• You must also apply petroleum jelly to your lips and ears. Make use of earplugs to prevent the colours from getting in.

• After playing Holi, take a bath. Make sure you stay wet and don’t let the colours dry. Using a gentle body wash while bathing. Do not scrub your body or hair to get rid of the colours. This will cause more skin and scalp irritation. Instead, use a loofah to gently wipe off colours. Further, use only facewash instead of soap or scrub to clean your face. Make good use of petroleum jelly in case of stubborn colour stains.

It is always best to play with organic colours free from chemicals. There is no doubt that Holi is all about fun, however, we need to be equally careful and avoid engaging in acts that can cause damage and injuries of any kind.