Play Hard, Protect Harder
Holi is undoubtedly the most fun festival of the year, but the combination of synthetic colors, prolonged sun exposure, and constant wetness can wreak havoc on your skin and hair.
Here is your foolproof guide to playing safe this Holi.
Pre-Holi: The Armor Strategy
The key to easy cleanup is creating a barrier between your skin/hair and the colors before you step out.
- Oiling is Mandatory: Generously massage coconut, olive, or almond oil into your hair and scalp. Do the same for your body. The oil prevents the harsh chemicals from staining your skin deeply.
- Paint Your Nails: Apply a thick coat of dark nail polish (and clear polish underneath your nails). This stops color from settling into your cuticles, which is notoriously difficult to remove.
- Sunscreen is your Best Friend: You'll likely be outdoors all day. Apply a broad-spectrum waterproof sunscreen (SPF 50+) over your oil layer about 20 minutes before heading out.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water before and during the festivities to keep your skin hydrated from within.
Crucial Advice
If color gets into your eyes, do not rub them! Instantly rinse with cold, clean running water. If irritation persists, consult a doctor immediately.
Post-Holi: The Gentle Cleanup
When the party is over, avoid the temptation to aggressively scrub your skin.
- Dry Off First: Before stepping into the shower, try to dust off as much dry powder as possible.
- Avoid Hot Water: Use lukewarm or cold water. Hot water makes the color stick to your skin even more.
- The Ubtan Magic: Skip harsh chemical soaps. Make a traditional 'ubtan' (paste) using gram flour (besan), curd, a pinch of turmeric, and rose water. Gently rub this over your body; it lifts the color naturally while moisturizing.
- Mild Shampoos: Wash your hair with a mild, sulfate-free shampoo. You may need two washes. Skip the hot styling tools for a few days afterward!
- Heavy Moisturizing: Once clean, lather your entire body in a rich, thick moisturizer or aloe vera gel to soothe any irritation.
Stick to organic colors whenever possible, and keep the celebration safe and joyous!
