It’s 2025 Holi already, 2019 me and 2025 me have changed personalities 4 times already. That means I no longer play Holi as if there’s no tomorrow. I am a full-blown corporate girlie now, and I can’t have cheap pink hues on the back of my ear and scalp anymore. Conducting meetings and presenting my slides with stained nails is not on my bingo card. That means I need to take care of myself, while also enjoying this festival of colours. The best way to enjoy Holi is to make sure I follow all the pre-festive preparations so I can come out at the end of the tunnel unscathed. Here are a few tips that I swear by to keep you Holi-safe the next day.
Tips To Shield Your Hair & Skin During Holi
You know the rules, guys. No skin and hair protection, no Holi. The following tips are something you would have to swear by, if you want your hair and skin to come out unscathed, this Holi. Keep reading to know what you have got to do.
1. Stay Slick
Hair is literally everyone's concern when it comes to Holi. It is very likely that your strands might be exposed to harmful colours. So, make sure to thoroughly oil them before you go out to play. However, oiling is not enough. Go for a slick, but stylish braid or a topknot that will keep color damage to a minimum.
Nykaa recommends:
2. Sunscreen Time
Skipping sunscreen any other day: no-no. Skipping sunscreen before playing Holi: girl, what are you doing? Even a mask and all that color can’t protect your face from the UV rays. We know it feels like an extra step, but think of it this way, with a mask and moisturiser, sunscreen is just an additional protective layer that will make taking the color off easier.
Nykaa recommends:
3. Colour Block
Some places on your body, such as your nails, ears and hairline, are more likely to retain all that colour. Make sure you apply a layer of Vaseline to these areas before you go out to play with colours.
Nykaa recommends:
4. Hydration Mode: On
You might think that applying moisturiser on your skin might attract more colour, but it will actually keep your skin from absorbing any. You can apply some hydrating body oil to your body the night before, or a few hours before playing with colours.
Nykaa recommends:
5. The Afterparty
Prevention is better than cure, but what you do after playing Holi is also important. First things first, hop in the shower and gently scrub the colour away with a loofah and a gentle cleanser. Take your time and try to reach as many crevices as possible. Next, rinse your hair with a good clarifying shampoo.
Nykaa recommends:
Parting Thoughts
If you feel like playing Holi is for kids, think again, as adults it’s even more fun, because amidst office, home, and busy social lives, Holi becomes an amazing escape to let free and play with your friends just like the good old days. But unlike the good old days, our skin won’t regenerate as fast and all the skincare is going to come back to zero. Let your skin and hair be happy while you let out your inner child through the right prep. Follow our steps to make sure you shield your skin and hair this Holi.
FAQs
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What are the best hair oils for Holi?
Here are some best hair oils for Holi to protect your scalp and hair lengths:
Nykaa Recommends:
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How to protect my hair during Holi?
The best way to protect your hair during Holi is to not wash it before you head out to play. The greasier the hair, the better. We recommend you oil your hair more to make removing the colour so much easier. Use either coconut oil or almond oil, not only do these oils help remove all the colour from the scalp and strands, but they also nourish your hair for deep conditioning.
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What kind of cleanser should I use after Holi?
Ideally, you should use a gentle yet hydrating cleanser, because even though you’ve played in water for a long time, your face actually gets more dehydrated and sensitive. Avoid using harsh ingredients or even a scrub because it can further tear your skin. Here are some gentle cleansers you can use.
Nykaa Recommends:
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What should I avoid after Holi?
Avoid harsh ingredients such as retinol, vitamin C, or any AHAs and BHAs, they are not ideal for sensitive skin. Stay away from any kind of exfoliation and simply focus on hydration. Opt for gentle cleansers with either hyaluronic acid or niacinamide.
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How to protect nails during Holi?
The best way to protect your nails during Holi is as follows:
- Trim your nails to avoid colour getting stuck underneath
- Apply a coat of nail paint to protect the base nail
- Apply petroleum jelly on your fingertips and cuticles to avoid staining
