The festival of colours, fun, and celebration is right around the corner, and we couldn’t be more excited to immerse ourselves in the festivities! That said, the harsh chemical colours, along with exposure to the sun and water, can take a toll on our skin and hair. Since these colours are often synthesized, they can be particularly damaging. That’s why a well-prepped skincare and haircare routine is essential to enjoy Holi worry-free.
The good news? Here are a few tips for the perfect pre and post-Holi care so that you don’t have to compromise on your skin’s health.
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Hydrate Your Skin Well
Hydrate your skin before and after Holi. A lightweight, hydrating moisturiser will lock in moisture and prevent excessive dryness caused by colours and exposure to the sun.
Apply Sunscreen
Stepping out for a sun-soaked Holi celebration? Protect your skin first! Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to tanning and sunburn. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 PA++++ at least 20 minutes before heading out. Wash off the colours and reapply every two hours for continued protection.
Opt For Organic And Natural Colours
Go natural! Natural colours are made from natural ingredients like flowers, turmeric, or sandalwood. These herbal and organic colours are gentler on the skin than the synthetic ones. So, if you want to protect your skin from allergic reactions, opt for natural and organic colours.
Wear Protective Clothing
Covering up is one of the best ways to protect your skin. Wear full-sleeved cotton tops and pants to minimise direct contact with colours. Wearing sunglasses can also protect your eyes from irritation.
Refrain Wearing Makeup
Makeup can clog pores or react with the colours, resulting in breakouts. Avoid wearing heavy makeup or applying foundation before heading out for the celebrations. Keep it as minimal as possible!
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from within. Coconut water and fresh fruit juices are excellent choices to prevent dehydration and maintain a natural glow.
Wash Off Colours Gently
After playing Holi, avoid scrubbing your skin aggressively. Use lukewarm water and a mild, sulfate-free cleanser to wash off the colours. If needed, follow up with a gentle exfoliating scrub, but be careful not to overdo it.
Moisturise And Nourish Post-Holi
After cleansing, apply a cool gel moisturiser and a nourishing body milk to replenish lost hydration.
Pro Tip: Protect And Revive Your Hair
Prep Your Hair with Oil
We’ve all heard how an oil champi is a must before Holi celebrations to help wash off those stubborn colours easily. Before stepping out to play Holi, apply a generous amount of nourishing oil to create a protective barrier. This prevents harmful colours from penetrating deep into your hair and also makes it easier to remove colours later.
Revive Your Hair Post-Holi
After cleansing your hair, apply a deeply nourishing hair mask to repair dryness and damage caused by colour exposure. This will help restore its natural shine and softness.
The author, Akanksha Sharma, is the Co-Founder and CEO of CITTA.
[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]