Even if you choose to organic this year, Holi colours can wreck havoc with your skin and hair. If you don’t have a proper pre and post-Holi regime at play, you’ll end up damaging your precious skin and hair. As you get ready to indulge in one of the riotous festivals ever, do keep the following tips in mind.
Even if you choose to go organic this year, Holi colours can wreck havoc with your skin and hair. If you don’t have a proper pre and post-Holi regime at play, you’ll end up damaging your precious skin and hair. As you get ready to indulge in one of the riotous festivals ever, do keep the following tips in mind.
Oiling:
It’s very important to oil your hair thoroughly, before stepping out to play in the sun. The harsh chemicals will seep through your scalp if you don’t oil them well. When combined with the fierce rays of the sun, the chemicals can have a long lasting damage on your hair. You might be using organic and hair/skin-friendly products, but you can’t control what others are using, so it’s better to be prepared. Warm a two tablespoon of olive or coconut oil and apply it on your scalp and roots. For better results, apply and leave it overnight…before applying before going out to play. This way, you’ll have dual protection! Do not leave your hair open, either tie it up into a pony or bun and cover it with a scarf or stole.
Moisturize:
Just like your hair, you skin needs moisture too. Apply a nourishing moisturizer made of cocoa butter, along with a good SPF content. Apply this all over your neck , ears and face. Apply a thick layer, so the chemicals don’t enter your skin past the moisturizer. If you have extremely sensitive skin that breaks up into spots and acne, mix one tablespoon each of coconut, olive and castor oil and apply it all over your face, neck and ears. Make sure you reapply your sunscreen (waterproof) every half hour to protect your skin from tanning.
Lips:
Lips are even more sensitive than your skin and hair, so protect them by applying an SPF-based lip balm that has a bright colour. Go for a thick layer so you can simply wipe the excess off when removing the colours off your face. You can apply olive oil or coconut oil as a base too. They will not only nourish your lips, but also protect them against colors and chemicals.
What after Holi?
Do not start rubbing or scrubbing the colour off as it will permanently damage your skin. Instead, use a cream-based wipe or cleanser to gently remove colours off your skin. If you spot redness or stretchiness, go to a skin doctor immediately. It could be a mild reaction that can turn into an allergy. Once you have cleaned your face thoroughly, apply a paste of besan, sandlewood and milk/curd all over. Wait for 20-25 minutes and wash it off with lukewarm water. Post your bath, apply a cooling moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and glowing.
Rinse your hair with a mild shampoo that doesn’t damage your hair further. After you have rinsed it thoroughly, apply a rich conditioner (even 2-3 times, if need be) so that your hair’s essential oils are restored.
Follow these rituals so you can let your hair down (literally!) and have a blast this festive season. Be safe…happy Holi!
