Holi 2025 Pre & Post Holi Skincare Tips: As Holi approaches, the challenge of keeping your skin radiant amidst the colours becomes the biggest concern. While the festival promises joy and celebration, it also brings with it the potential for skin damage from the harsh chemicals in synthetic colours to the dehydration caused by long hours in the sun. But fret not, we have the ultimate guide to maintaining healthy, glowing skin before and after the festival.
Pre-Holi skincare tips
Dr Vandana Punjabi, Consultant dermatologist and trichologist at Khar and Nanavati Max Superspeciality Hospital and has shared her expert opinions and tips on how to get your skin ready for Holi celebrations.
How can we make sure our skin doesn’t get painted with damage? What are some quick pre-Holi skincare essentials we should follow?
To protect your skin from Holi colours, apply a layer of coconut or olive oil, or use a thick moisturiser to act as a shield. Full-sleeved clothing reduces direct skin exposure, while glasses or protective eyewear can prevent eye irritation. Since hydration is the key. So drink plenty of water before and during Holi to keep your skin from drying out.
We often hear about ‘chemical-free’ skincare, but when it comes to Holi colours, what’s the real danger lurking in synthetic pigments for our skin?
Many synthetic Holi colours contain harsh chemicals, heavy metals, and artificial dyes that can trigger allergic reactions, skin irritation, and even long-term dermatological concerns. These chemicals can clog pores, leading to breakouts, while certain pigments may cause dermatitis or worsen existing skin conditions. Opting for natural, vegetable-based, or herbal colours significantly reduces these risks.
Most of us know sunscreen is key to protecting against UV rays, but does it help protect against Holi colours, too? Can you share some sunscreen hacks for the festival?
Yes, a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) not only shields against UV rays but also acts as an additional protective layer against colour penetration. Choose a water-resistant sunscreen and apply it at least 30 minutes before stepping out. Reapply if playing with water-based colours. For extra protection, mix a few drops of facial oil into your sunscreen to create a double barrier.
Are there any common misconceptions about skincare and Holi that you think need to be debunked?
One common myth is that scrubbing hard removes colors faster – this can actually damage the skin barrier and worsen irritation. Another misconception is that water-based colours are always safe, but even these can have artificial dyes that cause reactions. Lastly, people often skip post-Holi moisturisation, but rehydrating the skin is crucial to prevent long-term dryness and sensitivity.
The Holi colours can often linger for days, especially in the hairline and nails. Do you have any unique tips for ensuring those hard-to-reach areas are also protected and cleaned without much hassle?
Applying a thick layer of petroleum jelly around the nails, ears, and hairline before Holi prevents colour absorption. For easy removal, soak cotton pads in coconut oil or micellar water and gently wipe away stubborn stains. A mild nail brush dipped in a mixture of lemon juice and oil can help remove color without excessive scrubbing.
Post-Holi skincare tips
Once you are safe with your pre-Holi skincare rituals, then comes the real deal. Protecting your skin after you have played with colours is the real task. Dr Manu Singh, MD Dermatology, Tricity Clinic at Mohali, Panjab has some post-Holi skincare tips to make sure you are glowing even after playing with synthetic colours for hours.
The aftermath of Holi on sensitive skin can be a bit of a war zone. What are your top 3 emergency steps for soothing skin post-Holi?
First, cleanse gently using a pH-balanced, fragrance-free cleanser – avoid harsh soaps. Second, apply aloe vera gel or a calming lotion to reduce inflammation and irritation. Lastly, moisturise with a ceramide-based or hydrating cream to restore the skin barrier and prevent dryness.
Holi colours that stay on the skin for days also bring with them some skin drama. What’s the first thing we should do when we notice irritation or redness after playing with colors?
If irritation occurs, rinse immediately with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser. Avoid scrubbing and apply a soothing, anti-inflammatory gel like aloe vera or a dermatologically tested calming cream. If redness persists, a cold compress can help reduce inflammation.
We’ve all been guilty of scrubbing away those stubborn Holi stains, but how can we get the colours off without accidentally irritating sensitive skin even more?
– Instead of aggressive scrubbing, use a gentle oil-based cleanser or coconut oil to dissolve colors before rinsing with water. Micellar water can also be effective for removing stubborn stains while being gentle on the skin.
When it comes to post-Holi skincare, many of us rush to moisturise, but are there any special ingredients or products that work wonders for calming down sensitive skin specifically?
Yes, look for ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid in your moisturiser. Avoid products with alcohol or added fragrance, as these can further irritate sensitive skin. If needed, a dermatologist-recommended anti-inflammatory cream can be used for persistent irritation.
How important is it to use gentle cleansers after Holi? Should we be steering clear of exfoliants and toners, or can they help in post-Holi care?
Gentle cleansers are essential to remove colour without damaging the skin barrier. Avoid exfoliants and toners immediately after Holi, as they can make sensitive skin even more prone to dryness and redness. Wait a few days before incorporating exfoliation into your routine.
How do you feel about DIY face packs for post-Holi recovery? Are there any that you actually recommend, or should we just leave the ‘kitchen skincare’ for another time?
While DIY remedies can be soothing, it’s best to stick to dermatologically tested products for sensitive skin. If you prefer home remedies, a simple yogurt and honey mask or aloe vera gel can provide hydration and relief without causing irritation.
What are some key things to avoid after Holi if you have sensitive skin—things that might actually make it worse without us realising?
Avoid hot water baths, as they strip natural oils from the skin. Stay away from alcohol-based toners, astringents, or perfumes on the skin. Also, avoid excessive sun exposure without sunscreen, as post-Holi skin is already vulnerable. If irritation persists, consult a dermatologist instead of experimenting with home remedies.
