Yamuna Frothing: Skin And Hair Care Tips For Women Taking A Dip, Impact On Environment, And More, As Per Experts

We got in touch with our experts to understand the reasons and the dire consequences of this ecological issue. We also got some skin and hair care tips for dealing with the harsh reality of toxic waters, replete with pollutants, chemicals, and industrial waste, especially for those taking a dip in the holy river on Chhath Puja 2024. Read on to know more.

Impact Of Overtourism On Rivers In India

Hardi Oza Patel, founder and director of Velvet Escapes, “Overtourism at destinations like Agra, Pushkar, and Allahabad has led to the littering of pristine waters, overconsumption of water other than locals, over-exploitation of river resources resulting in froth and pollution. It has also increased the carbon footprint and has threatened the fragile ecosystem of that area. Also, these days a new trend has started of festival tourism where hundreds and thousands of people go to places to see the celebrations which has further led to both mass pollution and fast depletion of resources.”

“Rivers are vulnerable and so is the ecosystem that lives within. We, as a society should take care that we handle these resources by adopting sustainable practices. River Yamuna flows across important Pilgrimage destinations. Pilgrims offering flowers, milk and various forms of Prasad are threatening the rivers as the disposal is not treated correctly before putting it into the river which has led to froth situations. It is sad to know that we are a culturally rich country but we still need a disciplined approach when it comes to preserving our natural resources like rivers, lakes, mountains & deserts,” she added.

How To Protect Your Skin During Chhath Puja In Yamuna’s Frothy Water?

Dr Akanksha Singh Cornuit, founder of Promed Aesthetics, shared, “Chhath Puja is a cherished festival, especially for devotees who gather to worship the Sun. However, recent pollution in the Yamuna River has raised concerns, as its frothy, foamy waters contain toxins that can be harmful to the skin. Participating safely requires a few easy but essential skin care steps to guard against irritation, dryness, and other unwanted reactions. Here’s a detailed guide to keeping your skin protected as you perform these sacred rituals.”

Thorough Cleansing with Mild Products: “After taking a dip in the river, thoroughly cleanse your face, body, and hair with lukewarm water. The foamy water contains chemicals that may irritate your skin, so it’s important to remove any residue immediately after the ritual. Use a gentle soap or a hydrating face wash that doesn’t strip the skin of natural oils. Look for products that contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile, known for their calming properties. These ingredients help relieve any initial irritation and are safe for sensitive skin.”

Moisturise to Restore Hydration:“The river’s polluted water can strip away the skin's natural oils, leaving it dry. To combat this, apply a moisturiser that includes glycerin, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid after cleansing. These ingredients are highly effective at restoring and maintaining moisture in the skin. Glycerin attracts water to the skin’s surface, keeping it hydrated. Ceramides help to repair the skin barrier, while hyaluronic acid holds moisture in the skin, preventing it from drying out. A good moisturiser will lock in moisture and help your skin feel soft and comfortable.”

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Soothe Any Irritation or Redness: “Sometimes, exposure to polluted water can lead to visible redness, itching, or general skin discomfort. If you experience any irritation, try applying aloe vera gel as it is known for its cooling and healing properties. Another option is to use a cold compress or gently apply ice wrapped in a clean cloth to the affected areas. This helps reduce inflammation, soothes irritation, and provides relief. Cold compresses are easy to use and can quickly calm irritated skin.”

Apply Oil as a Protective Barrier: “Before stepping into the river, consider applying a layer of nourishing oil, like coconut oil, to your skin. This helps create a natural barrier between your skin and the water’s pollutants, preventing the toxins from penetrating deeply. The oil acts as a shield and retains moisture, making your skin less likely to dry out. After completing the ritual, you can reapply the oil to keep your skin soft and nourished.”

Protect Your Skin from Sun Exposure: “Exposure to the sun after coming out of the water can increase the risk of sunburn or pigmentation, especially with compromised skin. To avoid this, limit direct sun exposure after the dip. If you need to be outside, wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect against harmful UV rays. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen ensures protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Pair your sunscreen with protective clothing, like a scarf or a hat, to shield your face and body from the sun.”

These simple and precautionary steps can help you safely participate in the Chhath Puja rituals without compromising your skin’s health. “Ensuring that you cleanse, moisturise, protect, and soothe your skin as needed will prevent potential skin issues from polluted water. Celebrating Chhath Puja while caring for your skin allows you to enjoy the festivities fully and comfortably, creating a memorable and safe experience,” concluded Dr Akanksha.

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