Holi is all about vibrant colours, fun, and celebration, but amidst the excitement, our skin and hair often bear the negative impact of harsh colours, sun exposure, and pollution. To ensure your skin stays happy and healthy, follow these before and after Holi skin care tips for a safe, worry-free celebration!
Before You Play: How to Protect Skin & Hair from Holi Colours?
Choosing the Right Holi Colors
The colors you use matter! Holi powders can be chemical-based or organic, and not all organic colors are truly natural.
What to Look For:
-
Genuine organic colors made from beetroot, turmeric, and marigold are the safest.
-
Avoid synthetic food colors that can be present even in "so-called" organic options.
-
Look for natural, plant-based colors—easily available online.
Pichkari vs. Powder: Which One To Choose?
A 2016 study found that Holi powders contain 40-75% PM10 particles (particulate matter smaller than 10 microns), which can cause respiratory and skin issues.
-
Choose spray guns (pichkaris) over powder play to reduce inhalation risks.
-
Use a low-velocity setting for safer application.
-
Avoid direct exposure to powders, as even organic cornstarch-based gulal is also shown to cause skin inflammation and irritation in that study.
What to Wear for Maximum Protection?
-
Masks & Sunglasses: Prevent inhalation of color particles and protect your eyes.
-
White Outfit: It’s tradition! Wear something you don’t mind staining forever.
-
Full-Sleeved Clothes: Reduce direct skin exposure to colors.
How to Protect Skin & Hair from Holi Colours
Before stepping into the color zone, create a protective barrier for your skin and hair:
-
Moisturize exposed areas of the body: Use a rich body butter like SMOO Buttergel for body to reduce color adherence to your skin.
-
Use a sunscreen for face: If playing outdoors, go for a moisturizing sunscreen like SAFESCREEN Nexgen or antipollution sunscreen like SAFESCREEN Pycnogenol to shield against UV rays and pollution.
-
Coat your hair with a leave-on hair serum: Apply a thick coat of Child’s Play hair serum to prevent color penetration and make washing the hair easier later.
-
Avoid chemical exfoliation: Skip chemical peels or exfoliating treatments 2-3 days before Holi to reduce sensitivity.
After Holi: Post Holi Skin Care and Hair Care Tips
How to Remove Holi Colour from Skin?
Your skin might be sensitive after all the color and sun exposure, so a proper cleansing routine is a must.
-
Lukewarm Water Only: Avoid hot or cold water, as this can aggravate sensitivity.
-
Use Mild Cleansers: Instead of harsh soaps, opt for gentle baby bars or body washes.
-
Pat Dry with Soft Towels: Too much friction can irritate skin further.
How to Remove Holi Colour from Hair?
Holi colors can cause buildup, clogging your scalp and leading to irritation.
-
Exfoliate with Pinedruff Scalp Serum: Let it sit on the scalp for atleast
20 minutes to a maximum of 2 hours before shampooing. -
Use a Leave-On Hair Serum: Helps restore moisture and smoothness after shampooing.
Rehydrate & Restore Moisture
-
For Body: Apply a body moisturizer within 3 minutes of bath. This locks in hydration and maintains the skin barrier.
-
For Your Face: If it's still daytime, get back to your sunscreen routine. If not, use your regular face moisturizer.
Why Cleansing Off Colors Is So Important?
Holi colors, even organic ones, can cause skin reactions if left on too long. Some of the common side effects include:
-
Allergic Contact Dermatitis – Temporary skin irritation, which may take time to clear.
-
Delayed Pigmentation & Tanning – Some pigments react with skin and cause persistent discoloration.
A thorough cleanse and post-Holi skin care routine can help prevent long-term skin issues!
Holi is all about colors, laughter, and togetherness—and with the right precautions, you can enjoy the festival without compromising your skin and hair health. Prep well and protect your skin with CHOSEN’s high performance skin & haircare range and follow these post Holi skincare tips to keep your post-Holi glow intact.
Happy Holi!
You may also like to explore: