JOIN USIt’s time to get drenched in colours and what better way than using herbal and natural colours? In fact, doctors point out that it is important that people protect themselves before smearing themselves with colours. The colours may cause allergic reactions in many.
Manika, a professional, says that she waits for ‘Holi’ every year to soak in as many colours as possible but she makes sure she takes enough precautions to protect her hair, skin and eyes from allergic reactions.
“I first apply a coconut-based oil on my skin and hair. This forms a layer which prevents the colours from penetrating the skin. The colour comes off easily after a layering of oil,” she says.
Manika reasons that she is also careful not to reapply oil or moisture once the skin is exposed to colours and not to wash off the face again because this could have a reverse effect.
Sharmistha Sikdar, a home-maker, makes sure she always uses eco-friendly colours. Sharmistha never ventures out to play Holi unless she applies a coat of moisturiser on her face and body.
“I also apply olive oil to protect my hair from the colours. Keeping the skin hydrated and moisturised prevents the colours from setting deeply within the pores. I also wear nail paint to protect my nails,” she says.
She also points out that if the colours persist, then rubbing lemon juice on them helps removes them because lemon is a good bleaching agent.
Doctors say those who have a sensitive skin must take care not to develop allergies. The skin, eye and hair must be equally cared for. Dr Shalini Shetty, senior ophthalmologist, Apollo Hospitals, adds that any type colour causes irritation to the eye. “If the colour enters eyes, it needs to be thoroughly rinsed with warm water. Avoid using water balloons, rubbing colours around the eyes and use of organic and natural colours would be good,” she says.
For those with sensitive skin, Mukta Sachdev, consultant dermatologist, Manipal Hospitals, says a layer of emollient moisturiser as a base protection is a must before playing Holi.
“You could also apply sunscreen. The combination of both moisturiser and sunscreen act as a double protection and prevent the skin from being damaged and ensures that the
colours come off easily,” she sums up.