Holi Skin & Hair Care Guide: Before, During and After the Celebrations

Holi hai! And often times, it is there to stay in the form of colours on your skin and hair that just won’t come off.

No worries though! Here’s your complete guide to protecting your skin, eyes, and hair before, during, and after Holi, so you can have a blast without irritating stains that last.

Pre-Holi Protection: More the Barrier

A little prep goes a long way when it comes to shielding yourself from stubborn colours and post-Holi skin stress.

1. Hydrate Inside & Out 

Start hydrating your skin at least a week before Holi. Dry skin absorbs colours more easily, making removal difficult. Drink plenty of water and apply a generous layer of moisturiser on your face and body before stepping out to play.

2. Oil Up

• Hair: Massage your scalp and hair with coconut, olive, or almond oil. This creates a protective barrier that prevents colour from sticking and makes it easier to wash out.

• Skin: Apply mustard or coconut oil all over your body, especially on exposed areas like your arms, legs, and neck. This helps prevent the colours from seeping deep into the pores of your skin.

• Nails & Ears: Coat your nails with a dark nail polish and don’t forget to apply oil behind your ears—colours love to settle in these sneaky spots!

3. Sunscreen is a Non-Negotiable 

Playing Holi means long hours under the sun. A broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen will protect your skin from UV rays and prevent tanning. (Apply it on top of the oil)

4. Protective Clothing & Accessories 

Go for full-sleeved cotton clothes to cover more skin and minimise exposure. Wear sunglasses which will not only add to your Holi look but also protect your eyes from colour and dust.

Also read: Monsoon Safety and Healthy Tips in India

During Holi: Smart & Safe

Now that you’re prepped and protected, it’s time for some colour-filled fun! Keep these quick wellness-friendly tips in mind to avoid skin and hair damage:

1. No Harsh Chemical Colours 

Play with organic, skin-friendly colours made from flowers or turmeric. They’re gentler on your skin, hair, and the environment.

2. Keep Your Hair Tied Up 

Braid your hair or tie it into a bun to minimise colour penetration and tangles.

3. Patting Not Rubbing

Avoid rubbing dry colours into skin. Instead, lightly pat them on to make washing off easier later.

4. Reduce Water Play  

Water balloons and continuous drenching can make colours seep deeper into your skin and hair.

Also read: Health and Wellness Tips During Ganesh Chaturthi

Post-Holi: Easing the Aftermath

Once the fun is over, it’s time for a deep breath, some gratitude for an amazing time, and some self-care to rejuvenate your skin and hair. Here’s how you can remove colour effectively.

1. Start with a Gentle Dry Dust-Off

Before you step into the shower, dust off as much dry colour as possible using a soft cloth.

2. Double Cleansing for Your Skin

• Use a gentle oil-based cleanser or coconut oil to break down stubborn colour.
• Follow up with a mild, hydrating face wash to cleanse deeply without stripping off too much moisture.

3. The Magic Hair Mask 

Instead of attacking your scalp with harsh shampoo right away, apply a hair mask of yogurt and honey for 15 minutes. This helps loosen the colour naturally. Then, rinse with lukewarm water and use a sulfate-free shampoo followed by a nourishing conditioner.

4. Exfoliate & Moisturise

• Gently exfoliate using a homemade scrub (besan + curd + a pinch of turmeric) to remove residual colours.
• Moisturise generously to replenish lost hydration and restore your skin’s natural softness.

5. No Cutting Corners

For colour stuck behind your ears, on your nails, or along your hairline, dip a cotton ball in milk or rose water and gently rub the area. You can also use fresh aloe vera gel for extra soothing.

6. Hydrate & Nourish from Within

After a full day of fun in the sun, you’re likely to be dehydrated and low on electrolytes, which can affect both your skin and your mood! Load up on water, coconut water, fresh fruits, and green veggies to detox from within.

Suggested read: 10 Essential Benefits of Drinking Water Regularly

Bonus! DIY Post-Holi Spa Day

After all the colour and chaos, treat yourself to a DIY Holi detox spa at home:

• Face Pack: Mix multani mitti (Fuller’s Earth) with rose water to calm irritation.

• Hair Rinse: Rinse hair with apple cider vinegar diluted in water to remove any last traces of colour and restore shine.

• Foot Soak: Dip your feet in warm water with Epsom salt to relax tired legs.

In Conclusion

Holi is all about joy, laughter, togetherness, and colours, but caring for your skin, hair, and eyes should be a part of the way you celebrate. With the right pre- and post-Holi care, you can enjoy the festivities without worrying about damage. So play safe, hydrate well, and glow from the inside out—because wellness and celebration go hand in hand!

Wishing you a colourful, healthy, and happy Holi!