How to protect your skin during Holi?

Holi, a joyful and colourful celebration, is back. It's a moment to spread love and joy and to rejoice in the victory of virtue over evil. However, we frequently neglect to keep it safe in the enthusiasm and end up getting irritation, dryness, and even allergic reactions on our skin. So, in this blog, we'll look at some simple but crucial suggestions on how to protect your skin during Holi.

Pre-Holi Preparation:

Preparing your skin before holi is one step which people should definitely not avoid. Since my childhood my mother use to make ubtan( recipe provided below ) which she used to apply all over my face and body and that homemade ubtan scrub helped me protecting my skin from synthetic colours and making my skin even more soft. So you too can make an organic scrub at home for pre holi and post application.
Here are a few more pre-Holi guidelines to keep your skin safe that have been proven effective by the majority and are advised to NOT FORGET!

a) Moisturise your skin: Before you head outside to play Holi, apply a thick moisturiser on your skin. In order to prevent dryness, this will act as a barrier between the colours and your skin.
b) Apply sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF between 30-50 to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun.
c) Wear protective clothing: It’s advised to cover your skin with long-sleeved clothes and pants to minimize the contact with colors.
d) Apply coconut oil: Applying coconut oil is another goof alternative, especially on your face, neck, and other exposed areas. This will help remove the colors easily and prevent the colors from staining your skin. This has been my one best formula for removing the colours after playing holi.
e) Trim your nails: Trim your nails to prevent the colors from getting trapped under your nails and causing infections. Else if you'll get colours get trapped inside your nails, it might even cause burning sensation or itching or irritation.

Homemade Ubtan Recipe

( Traditional Indian skincare remedy for all skin issues! )Ingredients2 tablespoons chickpea4 tablespoons chickpea flour1 tablespoon sandalwood powder1 tablespoon honeytablespoons milkRecipe1) Combine chickpea flour, turmeric powder, and sandalwood powder in a small mixing bowl.2)Add honey to the mixture and mix until the mixture turns into a thick paste.3)Slowly add milk to the mixture, stirring continuously, until the ubtan becomes a smooth paste.Application1) Wash your face/ body.2) Apply the paste for 10-15 minutes.3) Gently scrub your skin with your fingers in circular motions for 1-2 minutes.4) Rinse off the ubtan with lukewarm water and pat it dry.5) Apply moisture!

During Holi:

It is more prudent to take extra precautions during Holi to protect our skin. To shield your skin during Holi, remember these tips:

a) Use natural colors: Use colors made from flowers, fruits, and vegetables instead of synthetic colors. The latter one contains harmful chemicals that can cause skin irritation and allergies.
b) Avoid touching your face: Avoid touching your face as much as possible. If you need to wipe your face or eyes, using a soft cloth or tissue paper is advised.
c) Avoid staying in wet clothes: Wet clothes can cause skin irritation and rashes. Change your clothes immediately after playing Holi and take a shower to remove the colors.
d) Use lukewarm water: Use lukewarm water to wash off the colors instead of hot or cold water. Hot water can dry out your skin, and cold water can cause the colors to stick to your skin.
e) Use a face mask: Holi is frequently observed in March, which is known for its shifting weather. The majority of individuals either have a cold or a fever, and not to forget, we recently recovered from a major epidemic. Therefore, using a face mask gives you the benefit of safeguarding your face skin and preventing the spread of any bacteria, viruses, or germs.

Post-Holi Care:

After playing Holi, it is essential to take care of your skin to prevent further damage. Here are some post-Holi tips that can help protect your skin:

a) Moisturise your skin: Applying moisturiser is that one process that can be done before Holi, during Holi, or after Holi and works everywhere. You must always remember to use moisturiser and sunblock on your face because failing to do so will result in poor skin that irritates, dries out, and itches all over your face and body.
b) Apply aloe vera gel: For an option that will still leave your skin feeling cold, tranquil, and smooth, try aloe vera gel. If your skin feels burning after playing Holi, it is suggested that you apply aloe vera lotion and use an ice compress to chill off. It is a natural remedy for all of your skin problems.
c) Avoid using makeup: After performing Holi, refrain from applying cosmetics to your face for a few days. Your skin will be able to repair the harm the hues have done.
d) Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and fluids to keep your skin hydrated and flush out toxins from your body.
e) Consult a dermatologist: Consult a physician right away if you experience any strange skin itching, rashes, or reactions after playing Holi.

It is crucial to be mindful of the environmental impact of the colors used during Holi. Therefore, it is recommended to use natural colors made from flowers, fruits, and vegetables which are eco-friendly.

Additionally, it is crucial to respect other people's limits during Holi. Some individuals might find it uncomfortable to experiment with colour or may have delicate skin. So it’s is essential to honour their decision-making and refrain from pressuring them to join.

P.S- Safe and happy holi to everyone!