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Follow expert Holi skincare and haircare tips to prevent dryness, irritation and damage caused by colours, sun and water during celebrations.
A simple pre- and post-Holi routine can make all the difference. Here are some easy tips to follow before and after playing Holi to help restore the natural beauty of your skin and hair, so you can celebrate stress-free.
Holi’s best moments are messy, but your skin and hair don’t have to pay for it. Synthetic gulal can contain metals and harsh pigments that dry, stain and irritate, while sun exposure and repeated washing add further stress. A simple pre- and post-Holi routine can make all the difference. Here are some easy tips to follow before and after playing Holi to help restore the natural beauty of your skin and hair, so you can celebrate stress-free.
Shahnaz Husain, CMD, Shahnaz Husain Group, shares her expert advice:
Before You Step Out
Skip actives: Avoid waxing, bleaching, or acid facials 2–3 days before Holi, as the skin barrier needs to remain intact.
Oil is your barrier: About 20–30 minutes before stepping out, massage coconut or sesame oil onto the face, arms, legs and scalp. It fills the pores and coats the hair strands so pigments do not penetrate deeply. For hair, tie it into a braid or bun after oiling to reduce exposure and tangling.
Moisturise and protect: Apply a thick moisturiser (shea butter- or aloe-based) over the oil, followed by a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher). Ensure all exposed areas are covered.
Clothing matters: Wear full-sleeve cotton clothes, a cap and a scarf to protect as much skin as possible.
Protect your nails: Apply a transparent nail varnish to prevent nails from absorbing Holi colours.
During Play
Stay hydrated: Keep sipping water, as well-hydrated skin is more resilient.
Avoid rubbing colours: If irritation occurs, rinse gently with water instead of scrubbing.
After the Colours
Remove dry powder first: Dust off excess colour before rinsing with cool water.
Cleanse gently: Massage coconut or almond oil onto the skin, wipe gently, and then use a mild cleanser or a paste of gram flour (besan) mixed with yoghurt or milk. For hair, shampoo once with a mild formula and follow with conditioner. Avoid repeated washing to remove stains.
Soothe the skin: Apply aloe vera gel, cucumber juice or rose water to calm redness. For irritation, apply a paste of honey and turmeric only on affected areas.
Restore moisture: Use a glycerine- or aloe-based moisturiser while the skin is still damp. The next day, apply a nourishing hair mask using amla or a banana-and-honey mix if hair feels dry.
Avoid heat treatments: Refrain from hair straightening, facials or strong skincare actives for 3–4 days.
Reduce itching: Add two tablespoons of vinegar to a mug of water and use it as a final rinse. If irritation persists, consult a dermatologist.
The Day After Holi
For skin: Mix two tablespoons of honey with half a cup of curd and a pinch of turmeric. Apply to the face, neck and arms. Leave it on for 20 minutes and wash off with cool water. This helps remove tan and soften the skin.
For hair: Mix one tablespoon of coconut oil with one teaspoon of castor oil and warm it slightly. Apply to the hair. Wrap a hot towel around your head for five minutes. Repeat 3–4 times to help absorption. Leave for an hour before washing.
March 02, 2026, 18:10 IST
