Holi is a celebration characterized by vibrant colours, joy, and unity; however, the harsh chemicals found in these colours can lead to dry skin and damaged hair. Implementing appropriate skincare routines before and after the festival can safeguard and nourish your skin and hair, allowing you to fully enjoy the festivities without concern.

Priyanka Wadhwani, a certified cosmetologist, has provided Lifestyle with her comprehensive skincare guide for pre and post-Holi care, designed to help you maintain healthy and protected skin throughout this lively and colourful celebration.

Most useful Holi skincare tips

Pre-Holi skincare tips

1. Prepare your skin with a barrier cream: Before your celebrations, generously apply a ceramide-infused moisturizer or a non-comedogenic barrier cream. This will establish a protective layer that minimizes the likelihood of irritation and dryness by preventing pigments from deeply infiltrating the skin.

2. Apply sunscreen: Participating in Holi festivities outdoors exposes you to harmful UV rays. At least thirty minutes before heading out, apply sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher. If you plan to be outside for an extended period, remember to reapply. For enhanced protection, choose a sunscreen that offers water resistance.

4. Safeguard your under-eye area and lips: The skin around your lips and under-eye is thinner and more fragile. To prevent chapping and discolouration, apply a generous layer of petroleum jelly or a rich lip balm. Additionally, using under-eye creams that contain ceramides can help maintain moisture in this sensitive region.

5. Maintain short nails: Nail polish can easily seep into the cuticles and nails, resulting in dryness and discolouration. To protect your nails, ensure they are kept short and apply a thick layer of cuticle oil or a clear nail polish.

Post-Holi skincare

1. Utilize a Gentle, pH-balanced Cleanser: Excessive scrubbing can compromise the skin's natural defences. To effectively remove colour without irritating, opt for a gentle, sulfate-free, pH-balanced cleanser. If the colour proves stubborn, consider starting with an oil or cleansing balm.

2. Steer Clear of Abrasive Scrubs and Hot Water: Aggressive scrubbing can lead to microtears, while hot water may strip your skin of moisture. To eliminate colour, employ a soft microfiber cloth along with lukewarm water. Additionally, incorporate a moisturizing face wash for a thorough double cleanse.

3. Rehydrate with Moisturizer: After cleansing, apply a moisturizer enriched with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or panthenol to restore the skin barrier and lock in hydration. This step is crucial to prevent dryness and inflammation following the holiday.

4. Care for Dry or Discolored Lips: If your lips feel parched or stained, gently exfoliate them with a soft washcloth, then apply a nourishing lip balm containing lanolin, ceramides, or shea butter.

Effective Holi hair care tips

Shaheen Jumani, a creative stylist at Looks Salon, provided HT Lifestyle with post-Holi hair care advice aimed at safeguarding your hair from intense colours and damaging chemicals.

Pre-colour hair preparation:

Apply a generous amount of oil, such as extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil, to both your hair and scalp. 

Additionally, using a thick conditioner can help form a protective layer, preventing the Holi colours from harming the hair shaft. 

It is particularly important to exercise caution with blonde and grey hair, as these colours are more susceptible to staining, which can result in an undesirable change in appearance. 

To maintain manageability and prevent tangling, consider styling your hair in braids or buns.

Post-party hair care:

Begin by rinsing your hair with cold or lukewarm water to eliminate as much colour as possible. 

Next, apply a cleansing shampoo, followed by a sulfate-free, hydrating shampoo suitable for both your hair and scalp. 

Gently massage your scalp in circular motions to remove any remaining residue. 

Thoroughly rinse your hair and then apply a nourishing hair mask, allowing it to sit for 10 to 12 minutes to rejuvenate dry, frizzy, and lifeless strands. 

Afterwards, rinse your hair with cold water. 

Towel dry your hair and then apply a hydrating serum or hair cream to provide moisture. Allow your hair to air dry naturally. 

Within a week, schedule a visit to your salon for a deep conditioning treatment or a hair spa session to restore your hair's health and shine.

Read Also: Safeguard Your Skin This Holi: Key Care Tips and Top Products for a Festive Radiance

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