Holi marks the arrival of spring, and being the most vibrant and and colourful festival, it is easy to get carried away by the festivities. It is therefore necessary to prepare your skin and haircare checklist in advance. Make sure to follow the below tips to avoid colour stained faces, parched hair and irritated skin without missing out on the fun.
If you want smooth, hairless skin before Holi, plan well in advance. Avoid any hair removal, be it laser, waxing, threading or shaving three to four days before Holi, as these leave your skin sensitive and pores open. Furthermore, coming in contact with colours could leave your skin with rashes or cause irritation.
Do you prefer wearing makeup for Holi? Do so only if you are planning to play with dry colours. A layer of foundation on your face or neck may protect your skin from colour damage, but try and avoid it for sure if water is involved.
Make sure to keep your hair and skin safe by shielding them in the right manner. This will keep the harmful toxins away and prevent dry and frizzy hair. Apply a sufficient layer of oil from the scalp to the tip of your hair. Any good coconut, almond or jojoba oil, especially around the hairline, will repel the coloured water and protect you significantly from damage.
Moisturising your body is as important as moisturising your face, as it will shield your skin from irritation and damage. Apply oil or a heavyduty moisturiser all over your body- including feet, legs, hands and elbows- about twenty to twenty five minutes before you leave to avoid any itching or rashes.
The moisturiser alone will not be sufficient when constantly under the sun in the water, as it will increase the chances of making your skin patchy. Make sure to apply a generous layer of sunscreen on exposed skin areas. This will also help protect you from colour stains.
One aspect you cannot forget is your nails, which can remain stained for a long time due to their porous nature. Make sure to apply a dark-coloured polish a day in advance.
Choose your clothing wisely. Dark coloured, full sleeved cotton clothes would be the ideal choice and comfortable to carry.
Make sure to remove the colour methodically using cotton swabs before using any body wash or soaps. Avoid using soap that is alkaline and makes the skin dry. Very hot water can also dry the skin, so keep it lukewarm.
Moisturise your skin well after your shower to avoid any dryness. Apply a gentle face cream as per your skin type as well.
Book an appointment at The White Door, your favourite skin and nail spa in Bandra, and ask for soothing services like a mani pedi, calming face mask, or a head massage to rinse off any residue from the festivities.