Don’t you love Holi, the festival of colors? People rejoice and celebrate the festival with full enthusiasm as the streets turn into a rainbow of colours. While it is all fun, colours, dance and games, there is one thing we all dread – the removal of Holi colours. Sometimes it also turns sour for some people due to splatter of color, which sometimes becomes dangerous too. It can also be a hassle when you try to remove the Holi colours.
HealthShots asked Dr. Jayshree Sharad, Medical Director, Skinfinity Aesthetic & Laser Clinic, Mumbai to help you remove Holi colors safely.
How to remove Holi colors safely?
If you too find it difficult to remove Holi colors from your skin, hair and nails, try these tips and tricks suggested by Dr Sharad.
1. Stay away from harsh chemicals
You should completely avoid using harsh chemicals or soaps to remove Holi colours. Dr Sharad points out that these products “contain solvents such as acetone, bleach and nail polish remover (acetate) which can be particularly harmful to the skin and cause irritation, burning, dryness and prolonged discoloration “.
You should avoid products that contain alcohol and fragrances, as these can cause even more damage, especially for sensitive skin. Opt for natural products like coconut oil to remove the colors effectively. Coconut oil is an emulsifying agent which helps in removing the Holi colours, so apply it thoroughly. She says that you can also use baby oil or olive oil.
Read also: Why Natural Ingredients May Be Better for Healthy, Glowing Skin
2. Avoid harsh cleansers
If you are using harsh cleansers like soaps and shampoos, you should know that these products can dry and irritate your skin. Dr Sharad recommends using a mild and natural cleanser as it will not irritate your skin. “Use a mild shampoo or oil-based conditioner to clean your hair. The color is loosened by oiling the hair, followed by shampooing. Use conditioner after shampooing to add shine to your hair. You can clean your nails with hand wash and water, and with a soft-bristled nail brush. Once cleaned, moisturize nails with a light oil or cream to help restore lost moisture.
Read also: Choose the Right Products for Your Dry Skin
3. Avoid Scrubbing
Do you think scrubbing your face vigorously can help in removing all the color from your face? Well, Dr Sharad says it may be doing more harm than good to your skin. Scrubbing can damage the protective layer of your skin, which can lead to skin irritation. Use a mild soap solution and a soft towel to clean your face.
4. Avoid washing your hair too much
Washing your hair frequently during Holi can be harmful for the scalp, as Holi colors can weaken the hair roots. Therefore, to lighten the colors of Holi, use mild shampoo and wash the hair with lukewarm water. If possible, wash hair only once or twice during the festival.
Read also: Don’t let your hair get ruined this Holi. Protect your mane with these tips
5. Do not use hot water
if you use warm water to wash your face, thinking this will help wash out the color, think again! Hot water can dry out your skin and damage your hair. Use lukewarm water instead of washing off colors as it is more gentle and effective, advises Dr. Sharad.
6. Avoid Sunlight
While sunshine is good on other days, not when your skin is already covered in chemicals. Dr. Sharad says, “Holi colors can make your skin more sensitive to the sun and cause sunburn. So avoid spending too much time in the sun after playing Holi. Wear sunblock when going out as an extra precaution.”
So enjoy this festival of colors, it will not harm you in any way. Happy Holi to you!