In This Story:
The festival of colours is around the corner and we couldn’t be more excited. But while it used to be all about natural gulal and water splashes. However, today's synthetic colours can do havoc on your skin, hair, and eyes. But don't worry, with a little prep for Holi skincare can ensure you glow even beyond celebrations. With Holi 2025 almost here, the big question comes around again and it's all about how to indulge in celebrations while protecting our skin and hair from it. One bassline rule when it comes to pre-Holi skin care tips here is not ever, ever skipping SPF. But, let's be realistic. Holi is all about a lot more than sunscreen. With all those colours, heat, and water battles going on, the skin needs an added layer of defence. Just like pre-party rituals for your skin, you slather up in body oil, SPF, and hydrating serums, while your hair gets to soak up the awesomeness of coconut oil plus nourishing treatments.
Whether you're doing an intimate get-together or going all out with music and dancing, pre and post-Holi skincare should be inviolable. The sun, synthetic pigments, and non-stop fun will leave your skin parched and irritated unless care is taken. So before you go plunging into the colour explosion, layer up and lock in moisture to protect your skin and hair from damage. And when the party's over?
Think gentle cleansing, intense hydration, and soothing ingredients bringing the skin slowly back to life. Because the only things Holi is supposed to leave you with are good vibes and a radiant glow. Ready to ace skincare before Holi and after? Stay tuned for expert-approved Holi skin care tips because playing safe is the real way to shine.
How To Protect Your Skin
While you're gearing up to drench your friends in vibrant hues, your skin is bracing itself for the chaos and havoc created by harsh synthetic colours, sun exposure, and prolonged water fights, as they always leave the skin dry, irritated, and begging for some TLC. The splendid fact is that proper Holi skincare can ensure you maintain that untouched glow.
Here is the complete range of how to shield your skin from pre-Holi skincare guidance to post-Holi skincare rituals and enjoy playing guilt-free!
1. Moisturiser: Your Skin's Armor
Before you step out into the Holi madness, moisturisation is non-negotiable. A thick layer of moisturiser acts as a protective barrier between your skin and those stubborn colours. Choose a heavy, oil-based moisturiser or, even better, smear on coconut or almond oil. This hinders colours from seeping into the skin, making the post-Holi clean-up highly easy. Applying moisturiser on damp skin increases absorption and ensures that the moisture lasts longer.
Nykaa Recommends:
2. Sunscreen: Your BFF Under the Sun
We sure love Holi, but let's not forget that it is done so under the scorching sun! Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen is an absolute must to shield your skin from the very detrimental. UV damage. Seek out a water-resistant formula so that it does not wash off too quickly while you indulge in your Holi adventures. Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes prior to stepping out and don’t forget about your ears, neck, and hands.
Nykaa Recommends:
3. Heavy Makeup is a Big No
We know, who doesn't want that perfect Holi selfie? Heavy makeup will definitely spoil the effect because mixed with colours and sweat, it would lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Instead, keep it simple by adding a tinted sunscreen and waterproof lip balm, and that's it: fresh and natural. If you can't really resist a little glam, stick with waterproof mascara and just a hint of lip stain.
Nykaa Recommends:
4. Cleansing & Soothing: Post-Holi Skincare
Your post-Holi skin care tips will include everything from mild cleansing to highly hydrating treatments. Wash with a mild sulfate-free cleanser to remove colours without stripping the skin. They then need a hydrating face mask or aloe vera gel that relieves redness or irritation. Do not scrub too hard on your skin, let the colour fade naturally after a few washes.
Nykaa Recommends:
How To Protect Your Skin And Rinse Holi Colour From Skin And Hair
After all, Holi's a lot of fun until after that grayish skin, dirty nails, and straw-like hair. The colours, sun, and endless water battles take away your skin's hydration and leave it and your hair craving some TLC. Don't worry. a little care for your body and its hair after Holi will wash you back to magic in no time. Here is how post-Holi skin and hair care go: cleanse, soothe, and restore.
1. Cleanse Gently, No Scrubbing Allowed
The biggest mistake you could make after Holi? Scrubbing your skin raw to get rid of the stubborn colours! The best stimulation for removal is gentle rubbing coconut oil or baby oil along the skin to break the colours. After that, wash it all down with a mild sulfate-free cleanser. For your hair, rinse with cold water first and then shampoo using sulfate-free, hydrating shampoo to wash away pigments without stripping your natural oils. For colours that still dare to stain your scalp, apply lemon juice mixed with honey, allowing it to stand for a refreshing 10-minute wash.
Nykaa Recommends:
2. Deep Moisturisation for Skin & Hair
Holi colors are dehydrators, drying and irritating like crazy for your skin and hair. Replace the moisture after washing with nourishing body lotion, aloe vera gel, or a cooling yoghurt mask to relieve inflammation. Your hair should not escape the pampering. Use a deep-conditioning mask or a homemade `banana and honey hair pack` to replenish shine and softness. For extra sensitive skin, an oatmeal and milk bath is soothing, hydrating, and a great way to relieve inflammation.
Nykaa Recommends:
3. Treat Stubborn Stains the Right Way
So, if you are still flaunting a not-so-intentional tie-dye on your skin, here is how to cleanse the stains: Dip a cotton ball in rose water or micellar water, gently wipe over the stained area. For nails, simply soak them in lemon juice with baking soda to take off any remaining colour. Stay away from any bleach or harsh soaps that might dry up your skin even more.
Nykaa Recommends:
4. Water From Within
The best tip for skin care after Holi? Drink fats. Hydrating from within helps flush out all toxins from the skin and brings back its shine. Pile on coconut water, green tea, and fresh fruit juices to get the most skin and hair perks. Antioxidants work on outward skin repair; this means that eating foods such as cucumbers, oranges, and almonds will help your skin recover early.
Nykaa Recommends:
Here’s How To Protect Hair And Skin From Holi Colours
The Holi colours stay on my skin and hair for a few days. How can I prevent this from happening?
Dr. Methil: A day before Holi, apply body oil all over your body and massage it into the skin. This hydrates skin so that it absorbs less colour the next day. You can also oil your hair to form a protective shield on strands.
Nykaa Recommends:
What precautions must one take on the day itself?
Dr. Methil: Just an hour before you play Holi, apply body lotion on your body. Protect the area around the eyes by applying Vaseline and rub a dash of baby oil on eyelashes and nails. Always wear full sleeved clothing to avoid direct exposure to colors.
Nykaa Recommends:
What is the post-play routine for everyone to follow?
Dr. Methil: Use a gentle facewash and body wash all over and gently scrub the skin with a loofah to get rid of the colour. Use a clarifying shampoo to rinse colour from hair. After the shampoo, apply conditioner to the lengths of the hair. Leave on for a couple of minutes and rinse with cold water. Use colour protect conditioner for colour-treated hair. After your shower, don’t forget to apply a nourishing body lotion and face moisturiser as the skin tends to become dry due to excess colour and sun exposure.
Nykaa Recommends:
I’ve just had a re-bonding treatment done. Will playing Holi affect my hair?
Dr. Methil: If the re-bonding was done in the last three days, then playing Holi is a strict no-no. Re-bonded hair takes three days to settle and contact with water is strictly prohibited in that time. Other than that, playing Holi is safe. Just make sure to use shampoo and conditioner specially meant for chemically treated hair.
Nykaa Recommends:
My skin tends to itch after exposure to certain products. How do I make sure the Holi colour doesn’t affect my skin?
Dr. Methil: Make sure to use organic colours to play Holi and remember to apply either oil or moisturizer all over your body, especially exposed body parts before playing Holi.
Nykaa Recommends:
How can I safely play Holi?
Dr. Methil: Protecting your skin and hair during Holi requires you to follow all following all the pre and post care dos and don’ts mentioned above. It’s always a good idea to use more water and flower petals and less color. If you have to use color, go organic. Alternatively, use natural colors like haldi and organic gulal.
Nykaa Recommends:
How can I soothe redness and skin irritation after color removal?
Dr. Methil: The redness is caused by an allergic reaction to the Holi colours that are often adulterated with heavy metals and engine oils. Always use a good moisturiser to soothe skin afterwards and you may use a mild steroid and antibiotic-based cream to take care of the allergy.
Nykaa Recommends:
Key Takeaways
With the right pre and post-Holi skincare and hair care, you can kiss dryness, irritation, and stubborn stains goodbye! Hydrate, moisturise, and pamper yourself to bring back that natural glow. A little TLC goes a long way in reviving your skin and hair after all the color-filled madness. So, cleanse gently, nourish deeply, and sip on that coconut water – because Holi should leave you with happy memories, not skin troubles.
FAQs
-
How can I protect my skin before playing Holi?
Start with a rich moisturiser or coconut oil to create a barrier between your skin and colors. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen, as Holi is mostly played under the sun. Avoid heavy makeup stick to a tinted sunscreen and lip balm. Don’t forget to cover up with full-sleeved cotton clothes for extra protection.
-
What should I do to protect my hair before Holi?
Oil your hair generously with coconut, olive, or almond oil to prevent colors from sticking and drying out your strands. Tie your hair in a braid or bun to reduce exposure and wear a scarf or hat for added protection. If possible, apply a leave-in conditioner or hair serum to keep your hair hydrated.
-
How do I remove Holi colors from my skin without damaging it?
Instead, massage coconut oil or baby oil onto your skin before washing. Use a gentle cleanser or a DIY mix of gram flour and milk to cleanse without irritation. Apply aloe vera gel or a soothing moisturiser post-wash to calm any redness.
-
What’s the best way to get Holi colors out of my hair?
First, rinse with cold water to remove excess color. Follow up with a mild, sulfate-free shampoo and a deep-conditioning mask to restore moisture. If stains persist, mix lemon juice with honey, apply it to the scalp for 10 minutes, and rinse gently.
-
How can I restore moisture to my skin and hair after Holi?
Apply a nourishing moisturizer or aloe vera gel to soothe the skin. For hair, use a deep-conditioning mask or a DIY banana and honey hair pack to replenish moisture. Drink plenty of water, coconut water, and fresh juices to hydrate from within and bring back your post-Holi glow.
