Here's the only skincare-guide you will need this Holi

Bengaluru: If you cannot get enough of the OTT Holi celebrations complete with bright gulals, pichkaaris, water balloons and more, you may want to make sure you carry out these tips. That's because all that revelry comes with a price, the harmful toxins in non-organic gulal may just harm your skin and hair. 

Dr Leelavathy B, head of Department of Dermatology, Bangalore Medical College, tells you how we can keep our skin safe this Holi. Read on to know the frequently asked questions before heading out to play Holi and the perfect way to remove colour from your skin. 

What precautions must one take on the day itself?
Most of the colours used now are artificial, toxic and some are industrial dyes and chemical solvents with lead oxide, mercury sulphate that can cause acute irritant and allergic reactions especially on the sensitive skin. Dr Leelavathy B says, "So wear preferably cotton and fully covered, also avoid playing in the scorching heat. Definitely, use a water-resistant sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30. It is also important to hydrate yourself with enough water, juices to avoid dehydration when you are out in the sun." 

Also read: 5 Holi celebrations in India that are unlike anything you have seen

What is the most important post-Holi routine?
If you don't know what type of colours have been applied to you, it is important to remove it from your skin immediately. "You should try to wash off the colours as soon as possible. Better to gently try to wipe off with a soft cotton dry cloth and then rinse with a gentle soap. One can use face cleanser with cold or just lukewarm water. For hair, you can use a mild shampoo followed by application of a moisturiser or coconut or olive oil to the skin as well as hair too," says Dr Leelavathy B. Soothing agents like Calamine lotion with or without aloe vera can also be used glycerine is useful. If irritation and itching persist, should see a dermatologist as soon as you can. 

What are your suggestions for a safe Holi?
1) Opt for preferably cotton clothing, that can cover most of your skin.
2) Try to use natural colours like turmeric powder or paste made of bright coloured flowers like hibiscus, even paste made out of Henna leaves, hibiscus leaves paste or juice of beetroot or carrot etc. These are a few safe compared to the dangerous artificial toxic colours and dyes.
3) Also better to apply some moisturisers or coconut or olive oil on the skin and even on hair before going out to play with colours. Protect your eyes that colours don't spill on it, may harm so as to prevent these colours spilling and damaging them.
4) Don’t rub your skin vigorously to remove the colours that can result in an irritant reaction. You can use some warm oil to wipe off as already mentioned.
5) Don’t bleach, wax, thread or do chemical peels before Holi as it could increase the sensitivity of your skin to the colours and the sun.