HT Exclusive Shoot Of Bollywood Actors Hrithik Roshan And Yami Gautam For Holi© GettyImages

Avoid Damaging Your Skin With This Ultimate Holi Skincare Guide

Reisha Shetty
Junior Digital Writer

Holi is one of the most joyous festivals celebrated in India. We usher in the season change with bright colours, delicious sweets, and what could be best described as a rave. But, as fun as the celebration is, it also wreacs havoc on our skin.

The vivid colours that we love have quite an adverse effect on our skin. Yes, you could be looking at long-term damage as well. But, don’t fret, we’ve got you covered. We got in touch with Dr. Sravya C Tipirneni, Consultant Dermatologist and Cosmetologist at Manipal Hospital Bengaluru to figure out how one can protect their skin this Holi. Take notes, people!

Oil Your Hair And Body

Our earliest memories of Holi revolve around our mothers lathering a thick layer of oil on our hair and body to avoid colour staining. This practice is still an absolute must, especially for your hair. “Healthy hair cuticles are the reason why our hair has a shiny look. While playing Holi, our hair cuticles tend to get damaged which causes our hair to look dry and dull. So, when we oil our hair, it protects the cuticles and does not allow the colour pigments to penetrate through,” says Dr. Sravya. Oils such as castor, coconut and almond oil are great for creating a barrier and protecting your hair, and they also help remove the colour from your hair.

Avoid Getting Skin Treatments Before Playing Holi

Skin treatments such as lasers, facials or even chemical peels must be avoided before playing Holi since they can cause irritation. Skin treatments usually make your skin sensitive and putting colour pigments can cause even more damage.

Avoid Playing Holi If You Have An Open Wound

Holi colour or gulaal often consists of chemicals, and if it comes into contact with an open wound, it can cause a bad infection. Make sure to avoid getting wet and bandage your wound properly to protect it from any colour pigments.

Petroleum Jelly©GettyImages

Apply A Thick Layer Of Petroleum Jelly On Your Skin

If you are not a major fan of oiling yourself, petroleum jelly will work just as great. Apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly on your entire body before playing Holi and it will prevent your skin from staining while also keeping it moisturised.

Do Not Wear Make-Up While Playing Holi

Wearing make-up for a Holi party might seem like a good idea until it isn’t. Make-up can clog your pores and when mixed with gulaal, it can cause some major irritation.

Apply Sunscreen

Being out in the sun for a long period of time can make you prone to sunburn and if you get in contact with colours it can cause a bad reaction. So, remember to apply lots and lots of sunscreen on your face and your body.

Go For Organic Colours

Instead of opting for the traditional gulaal, opt for organic colours. instead Unlike gulaal, these organic colours are made out of natural ingredients and dyes, making them extremely safe for all types of skin.

And there you have it! A dermatologically-approved check list to ensure your skin doesn’t get damaged during the celebrations at Holi. So, celebrate to your heartt’s content but ensure your skin is protected at all costs!