Colour Cleansing

If you thought that only your clothes get ruined after playing Holi, think again! The synthetic colours sold these days are really harmful to your skin and hair- but that should not dampen your vigour for this delightful festival. Here are some useful tips to protect your skin and hair.

• Use only natural colours and herbal dyes made from plant, vegetable and fruit extracts. Say no to chemical colours.
• Wear clothes that cover most of your body. Long sleeved kurtas, full pyjamas, etc. are your best bet. It will also save you from sunburn.
• Since Holi colours cause skin dryness, apply petroleum jelly to your nails, soles, elbows and other dry areas of the body prior to playing with Holi.
• If your skin is extra sensitive, apply a thick layer of cold cream or sunscreen before playing.
• An easy way to remove colour and replenish and rejuvenate the skin is by using a paste of gram flour (besan) with milk.
• A mixture of sea salts, glycerine and few drops of aroma therapy oil have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effect and can take care of the ill effects of chemical colours.
• Always use warm water and soap to scrub off the colours. Then use a cream cleanser or baby oil, to gently massage off any left over colour.
• Protect your hair with the use of oils or gel to counter the harmful effects of colours. Rinse your hair with a mild shampoo immediately after playing. Follow up with some deep conditioning.
• If you wear glasses or contact lenses, avoid using them while playing Holi. The colour can leave an unsightly outline on your glasses and damage your contacts.
• Invest in a manicure and pedicure in case the colour refuses to leave your nails.
• In case you develop a rash or allergy, take a non-sedative, anti-allergic tablet or visit a doctor as soon as you can.