Skin survival guide for Holi 2025: Pre- and post-care tips
What's the story
Holi is fast approaching, and while we're ready to dive into the color madness, your skin might be screaming for a little TLC.
Before you get caught up in the colorful chaos, it's time to prep your skin for the ultimate festival of colors.
With the right pre- and post-care, you can enjoy the fun without worrying about those pesky stains or irritated skin.
Let's keep that glow intact and the colors where they belong—on your clothes, not your skin!
Preparation
Pre-Holi skincare ritual: Protect your glow
Before you step out to play Holi, it's important to prep your skin.
Begin by massaging a generous layer of oil like coconut, almond, or sesame onto your skin.
This forms a protective barrier that prevents colors from sticking too hard and makes post-Holi cleanup easier.
Hydration is key; dry skin absorbs more color so keep it well-moisturized with a thick body butter or ghee-based moisturizer, paying extra attention to elbows, knees, and feet.
Protection
Sunscreen and lip care: Essential steps
Sunscreen is your best friend during Holi since most celebrations happen under the sun.
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 for best results.
Don't forget about lip care; apply a thick layer of ghee or nourishing lip balm to keep lips soft and stain-free.
Hair also needs protection from colors, so massage your scalp with warm oil to prevent dryness and tie it up in a braid or bun to avoid excessive exposure.
Caution
During Holi: Stay safe while having fun
During the festivities, opt for natural colors made from flowers, herbs and turmeric to avoid skin allergies and irritation.
Don't forget to hydrate; with all the dancing and running around, it's easy to forget hydration.
Keep sipping water throughout the day for fresh and glowing skin.
If someone smears color on your face, resist scrubbing it off immediately as harsh scrubbing can cause rashes; let the colors settle before washing them off gently later.
Recovery
Post-Holi skincare: Restore your glow
After a day of colors and fun, your skin deserves love and care.
Start by rubbing coconut or almond oil on your skin before soap to lift the colors naturally without too much rubbing.
Use a mild cleanser with aloe vera or sandalwood to soothe the skin while avoiding products with alcohol or harsh chemicals.
After a day or two, use a gentle exfoliator like homemade scrub with gram flour (besan) and yogurt to remove any lingering colors.