A big `no` to highlights during Holi: Jawed Habib

It is that time of the year, when friends and family will splash colours on you—and quite literally, we say! The festival of colours—Holi, falls on the 24th of this month, and with that comes in a lot of do's and don't as well. In an exclusive interview with Ritika Handoo of Zee News.com, renowned hair expert Jawed Habib talked about how to keep hair and skin unaffected by Holi colours and much more. Here are some useful tips suggested by the specialist:

Is it important to oil hair before going out for Holi celebrations?

Hair oiling is one of the best workouts for your hair to grow and gain strength. Without oil and moisture, you hair might turn dry and rough resulting in hair loss. Oiling hair during Holi is a must as it helps your hair from chemical colour damage. The oil forms a protective barrier and stops the colour from directly harming the scalp.

Do you think organic colours are safe for hair and skin?

Yes, organic Holi colours are 100% natural, ecofriendly and made of organic herbs. Foremost, they are completely free from heavy metals, chemicals, artificial colours and fragrances, hence safe for use. While chemical colours have solvents such as tetrathyline, lead, benzene and aromatic compounds that can lead to dry skin, organic colours are made using using flowers, fruits and vegetables ensuring a safe Holi .

How can we protect our hair while playing Holi?

Cover your hair: Make use of hat or caps to protect your hair from being coloured with hard-to-rinse dyes. Tie Your Hair: Try different beautiful hairstyles that will give you attractive look as well as protect your hair from damage. Avoid loose hair and tie it with braid, bun or ponytail, etc.

Oil your hair before going out: Use either castor oil or any of the denser variety of oils. This prevents the colour from seeping into the cuticles. If the hair is coloured, use a conditioner before going on your 'rang' rampage. The mantra should be oil for virgin hair and conditioner for coloured.

A big 'No' to highlights during Holi: Stay away from bleaching or highlights as Holi colours can turn your lightened hair a totally unwanted pink, green or purple, giving it a streaked effect.

Any specific regime that should be followed before playing with colours?

Avoid all facial treatments during this period. If you are prone to allergies and rashes, visit your dermatologist to check whether you need precautionary medication

Skin: Cover your skin with olive or coconut oil. Use a waterproof sunscreen (SPF 30 and above). Cover your lips with a thick coat of Vaseline or chapstick. Protect your nails from permanent color by using a funky nail polish. If you have long nails, you can use it on the underside of the nails as well.

Hair: One should apply castor or olive oil to his/her hair before going to play Holi. The layer of olive/castor oil will save your hair from toxic effects of colours and makes it easier to wash off. If you have long hair, make sure you tie it in a bun or plait, for minimal damage!

What affect does Holi colour have on our hair/skin?

Hair often gets affected and undergoes weathering effects due to exposure to harmful chemicals. Frizziness, breakage, dryness or rough unmanageable hair is often experienced. Persistence of colour in the hair as a red or pink or green or blue tint which the person vigorously tries to remove by usage hot water and repeated shampooing resulting in further damage.

Cleaning the skin and hair finally of all the colours is the most important aspect. Do not rub the skin vigorously with soap to wipe the face of gulal, instead, opt for a cleanser. Follow this up with lots of moisturizer, especially ones that are meant for sensitive skins. Avoid using kerosene, petrol and spirits to remove stains, as they will further dry the skin.

After celebrating Holi, it is important to replenish and rejuvenate the skin by using a paste of soya bean flour or besan with milk. A mixture of sea salt, glycerin and a few drops of aroma oil have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effect and can reduce the bad effects of chemical colours.

Can you share some Holi home remedies with us?

Add 2 tbsp of lemon juice to a bowl of curd and apply on the areas with colour. Then, take a bath with normal or lukewarm water to take the colour off.

-Mashed, ripe papaya applied to the face removes colour effectively.

-Make a paste with a few rose petals, malai and honey for the lips. This treatment will take the colour off and give you full, red lips.