Before heading out, apply a thick moisturizer or a layer of coconut oil. Even petroleum jelly works.
Photo Credit: istockphoto
Holi skin damage often happens due to avoidable mistakes like skipping moisturizer or oil protection, using synthetic colours, neglecting sunscreen, scrubbing with hot water, and jumping into strong skincare immediately after. To protect your skin, apply a protective barrier before playing, use SPF, choose safer colours, cleanse gently with lukewarm water, and focus on soothing, hydrating aftercare for a few days.
Red rashes. Dry patches. Stubborn stains. Random breakouts a few days later.
We think we’re being careful, but small mistakes can let harsh, chemical-heavy colours damage our skin. We all have ve learned this the hard way.
If you want to avoid that regret, here are five common mistakes you should definitely dodge.
Running out in excitement without applying anything underneath? Big mistake. When your skin is bare, colours cling tightly and settle deeper into pores. That’s when irritation and dryness begin.
Before heading out, apply a thick moisturizer or a layer of coconut oil. Even petroleum jelly works. Let it sit for 20–30 minutes. This creates a protective barrier so colours don’t stick as stubbornly and washing them off becomes much easier later.
Manipal Hospitals warns against scrubbing hard as it ramps up redness, using hot water, or letting colors linger too long. After hours of playing with the colours, you just want to hop in a steamy shower and scrub it all away but that heat opens your pores, letting pigments sink deeper while stripping your skin dry.
Instead, start by massaging oil onto dry skin to loosen the colour. Then rinse with lukewarm water and use a gentle cleanser. Avoid harsh soaps and don’t rub your skin like you’re cleaning a stain off fabric.
Your skin is sensitive after Holi. Treat it that way.
Holi usually means long hours outdoors. Add harsh colours to direct sun exposure, and you’ve got a recipe for pigmentation. Sunscreen isn’t optional. Apply SPF 50 before stepping out, even if you’re layering oil on top. Don’t forget exposed areas like your neck, arms, and ears.
Sun + chemicals can leave dark spots that take weeks to fade.
Yashoda Hospitals warns that chemical colors mess up your skin's pH balance, sparking rashes and itchiness while stripping away natural oils for that tight, dry feel. Those bright neon packets? Super tempting, but they're loaded with harsh stuff that can trigger allergies. Go for herbal or flower-based ones if you can they're way gentler and rinse off easy.
Your skin will thank you later.
After Holi, your skin needs calming not more stress. Jumping straight into exfoliation, retinol, or strong skincare products can irritate it further. Give your skin at least 3–4 days to recover.
Focus on soothing products like aloe vera gel, simple moisturizers, and hydrating masks. No hot water. No actives. Just repair mode.
Prep properly. Protect your skin. Wash gently. And prioritize recovery. Holi should leave you with memories and pictures not rashes and regret. Play smart, glow longer.
Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.
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