Arushi Sakhuja
As the joyful echoes of Holi Hai! fill the air, we know that it brings with it the onset of summer, and we find ourselves immersed in the vibrant spirit of one of India's most beloved festivals. Holi, the festival of colors, transcends boundaries, uniting people in a kaleidoscope of joy, laughter, and camaraderie over delicious food like gujjiya, thaandi and chaat. Yet, amidst the euphoria of colorful revelries, it's crucial to remember the potential toll these exuberant hues can take on our skin. The playful splashes of powdered colors and water balloons, while emblematic of the festival's essence, can inadvertently wreak havoc on our skin if not approached with care. From dryness and irritation to stubborn color stains, the aftermath of Holi festivities often leaves our skin longing for tender loving care.
We spoke to Dermatologist and Medical Director of Isya Aesthetics, Dr Kiran Sethi, to uncover the essential pre and post-Holi skincare rituals. From fortifying our skin's defences before the festivities to nurturing it back to radiance afterwards, these tips aim to safeguard our skin's health while ensuring we revel in the colors of Holi without hesitation.
Protecting Your Skin Pre-Holi
Amidst the whirlwind of Holi celebrations, it's crucial to prioritize skincare to ensure our skin remains vibrant and healthy. Adopting a pre-Holi skincare regimen can serve as a shield against potential damage. Prepping your skin before Holi for Dr Kiran includes, "apply a generous amount of coconut or olive oil to your hair and scalp to create a protective barrier against colour. For your skin, use a waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from UV damage and colour absorption." For added protection, apply a layer of Vaseline over your sunscreen to create a barrier against colour pigments, a technique known as skin slugging. However, the preventive tips are not just limited to beauty products, for Dr Kiran holi skincare also means wearing full-sleeved clothes and covering exposed areas as much as possible to minimize direct contact with colour. For an extra layer of protection, you can even opt to wear oversized sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun and colour splashes. And the most important holi skincare ritual according to the dermatologist is hydration! "drink plenty of water before and after playing Holi to keep your skin and body hydrated,"she advises.
Rejuvenating Your Skin Post-Holi
Once the festivities subside, it's time to indulge in post-Holi skincare rituals to give your skin some extra care to restore its health and vitality. Gentle cleansing and moisturisation are paramount to rid the skin of colour residues and replenish lost moisture. Opting for soothing masks enriched with natural ingredients can further soothe and nourish the skin, promoting its healing and rejuvenation.
To begin the post-Holi skincare Dr Kiran's suggestion is "Use a mild, pH-balanced cleanser to wash off the colours and avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can irritate the skin further. Follow it up by replenishing the lost moisture with a hydrating moisturizer enriched with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and Glycerine." She also advises us to steer clear of harsh exfoliants or chemical peels immediately after Holi since they might further irritate the skin. To conclude the post-holi skincare routine, the dermatologists share, "If your skin feels irritated or inflamed, apply a cool compress or ingredients like aloe vera or cucumber to soothe the skin."
Removing Colour from Your Skin and Hair
The harmful effects of holi colours need to be treated with care and removing Holi colours gently is key to preventing skin and hair damage. So how do you remove the chemicals with care? As per Dr Kiran the best way to remove holi colour from your skin is to use a gentle oil, like coconut or olive oil. "Massage the coloured areas and let it sit for a few minutes and then wash off with a mild cleanser." For your hair, "Apply a generous amount of coconut oil to your hair and scalp before stepping out to play Holi. Afterward, use a mild shampoo to wash off the colour," she said. Further continues she recommends using a hair mask to restore moisture and shine. "If all the colour doesn’t come out in one go, don’t go overboard with shampoo and scrubbing. Give it a break, and rewash it the next day."But that's not all! What about the nails which look so tacky infused with colour? The best way to get to colour off is by "soaking them in warm, soapy water and gently scrub with a soft brush."
Incorporating pre and post-Holi skincare rituals can significantly benefit your skin health during this festive season. By following expert advice provided by dermatologist Dr. Kiran Sethi, you can protect your skin from the harmful effects of Holi colours and maintain its natural radiance. Prioritize gentle cleansing, hydration, and moisturization before and after the festivities to keep your skin nourished and rejuvenated. Additionally, remember to apply sunscreen and opt for protective clothing to shield your skin from UV rays and further damage. With these proactive measures, you can enjoy the vibrant celebrations of Holi while ensuring your skin stays healthy and glowing. Here's wishing everyone a vibrant and colourful Holi filled with joy, laughter, and radiant skin!