Feb 24, 2026

7 simple tips to protect your hair and skin this Holi

TOI Lifestyle Desk

Hair and skin must-haves to avoid damage

Holi colours may give you those Insta-ready and festive vibes, but most of these powders are synthetic and contain artificial dyes, heavy metals, and drying agents. This can trigger breakout issues, scalp irritation, and frizzy locks. Follow these simple pre and post-Holi steps to protect your skin and hair from long-term damage.(Image Credits: Pinterest)

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Apply a thick layer of oil on your strands and scalp

A thick, protective layer of oil prevents the colour pigments from penetrating deep into the hair shaft and scalp. You can use coconut oil, almond oil, or argan oil from roots to ends; tie your hair into a braid or tight bun to reduce tangling issues.(Image Credits: Pinterest)

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Apply a thick layer of moisturiser and sunscreen

Understand that well-hydrated skin absorbs less colour and prevents dryness issues. Opt for a ceramide-rich moisturiser and layer it up with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. Reapply sunscreen, and don’t forget behind your ears, neck, and knees.(Image Credits: Pinterest)

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Avoid any hair or skin treatment before Holi

If you’ve recently coloured, rebonded, or have chemically treated your locks, then understand that your hair strands are more porous and vulnerable to break right now. So, avoid playing with colours or avoid going in before Holi for such treatments.(Image Credits: Pinterest)

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Do not go for facial sessions

Skip exfoliating facial sessions and do not apply retino, AHAs, and BHAs before Holi, as it can lead to reactions, which can be an unexpected call at times. Understand that pre-Holi skin sensitivity increases the risk of rashes and breakouts.(Image Credits: Pinterest)

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Stop scrubbing the skin to remove colours

The biggest damage usually happens when you start removing the colour from your skin. Instead, rinse with plain water first to remove dry powder, then apply a mild-sulphate-free shampoo, cleanse the skin gently with a hydrating body wash, and then pat dry with a towel. Do not rub harshly with a towel.(Image Credits: Pinterest)

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Follow a deep, nourishing hair care routine

After cleaning up, restoring moisture is the real key to recovery. Use a deep conditioning mask the very next day, and use a leave-in serum, as it will reduce the frizz. Also, avoid heat styling for 3-4 days.(Image Credits: Pinterest)

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Focus on barrier repair for skin

After cleaning up, apply aloe vera gel on your skin to calm inflammation and use a hydrating sheet mask or ceramide cream. You can also apply calming ingredients like panthenol, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, which will calm your skin.(Image Credits: Pinterest)

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