Fans beware: Support at your own risk

Do you show your craze for the Indian cricket team by making tri-colour tattoos and painting your face and hair? If yes, then beware of skin allergies and hair loss, say experts while suggesting ideal ways to dress up for a match.

"Paints, dye pigments and colours used for hair colouring and tattoo can damage both the skin and the hair, particularly of those individuals who are sensitive towards such products. The chemicals used in dye pigments can have an adverse effect on our health once they are absorbed by the skin and enter the body. Allergies caused by such paints can be quite distressing," Arvind Poswal, hair transplant surgeon, told IANS.

World Cup Cricket fever will continue till April 2.

Mumbai-based dermatologist Swati Srivastav said: "There are different kinds of paints - temporary, semi-permanent and permanent. There are colours which do not penetrate the hair shaft, then there are some semi-permanent types which penetrate your hair shaft. The main culprits in these hair colours are dye pigments which can cause allergic reactions and rashes."

"A temporary hair colour will stay only till the time you wash your hair. But most of these contain harsh chemicals that can make your hair dull and dry. Lots of people experience hair fall, hair breakage and skin allergies after colouring," she added.

And these colours also leave one's skin pleading for better care and protection.

"The toxic chemicals can cause skin peeling. It can cause allergy, rash, redness and swelling, and also increases the chances of sun damage to the skin by increasing the UV (ultraviolet rays) absorption," said Mumbai-based dermatologist Apratim Goel.

If one is sitting in a stadium, there is continuous exposure to sun rays. So experts suggest one should apply sunscreen after every two hours to combat tanning.

"A sunscreen is a must. Apply one with SPF 50+ when stepping out for matches in extreme sun. Apply it at least 20 minutes before stepping out of home. Wear breathable fabrics like cotton and wear full sleeve and long dresses that protect your forearms and knees and legs from sun exposure," said Bangalore-based dermatologist Chytra V. Anand.

"If you get skin rashes due to sun exposure, then wash the area with cold water and apply a good amount of calamine lotion to soothe it. If the rash begins to burn, itch and swell, then go to your dermatologist immediately," she added.

Protect your hair and skin by wearing large hats from direct sun exposure.

"While removing the paint, first soak your skin in baby oil for two hours; after that wipe it with dry cotton; lastly, wash with a gentle cleanser and top it up with liberal moisturiser," said Goel.

Fans go to extreme lengths to prove their solidarity towards their favourite team. According to Poswal, during cricket matches the specialists receive five-six queries from those who have hair loss after hair colouring