Holi, undoubtedly the most colorful festival celebrated in India, is around the corner. The anticipation can be felt in the air. Streets have started to smell of Gujia’s, and the cute little waterguns have begun appearing on tiny tots' backs. They don’t have a care in the world, do they?
But for grown ups, while the excitement might be the same, there is much to take care of. First and foremost is your skin and the skin of all at home. While colours look good, they can be harmful for your skin, especially if they are not made naturally. This blog talks about almost everything related to Holi skin care.
Table of contents
Holi Skin Care Guide: Pre & Post-Festival Tips For Healthy Skin
● Apply a protective layer of oil or moisturizer
● Keep your nails and lips protected
● Use natural remedies to remove colors
● Soothe your skin with aloe vera or rose water
● Apply a nourishing face mask
● Avoid exfoliating immediately
Holi Hai! But First, Skincare With Oteria
Pre-holi skin care tips
We’ve all heard our elders tell us - Prevention is better than cure. It is indeed a universal truth and applies to our topic of discussion. The synthetic colors used during Holi can severely harm the skin due to the presence of toxic chemicals like lead, mercury, chromium, and copper sulfate. These substances often cause allergic reactions such as redness, itching, swelling, and even blisters, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin. Drying agents like talc and silica in these colors strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, cracking, and peeling. Prolonged exposure can result in rashes, chemical burns, or even pigmentation issues. Scrubbing to remove stubborn colors may worsen the damage by causing abrasions or secondary infections. Here are a few pre-holi skincare tips that can help you protect your skin while playing with colors:
● Hydrate your skin well
Hydrating your skin is a crucial step in holi skin care routines, as it acts as a natural barrier against the harmful chemicals in synthetic colors. Drinking plenty of water ensures that your skin is well-moisturized from the inside out. Additionally, applying a hydrating moisturizer helps lock in moisture, making it more difficult for colors to penetrate deep into your skin. This can significantly reduce the risk of irritation and allergic reactions. Choose a moisturizer that is rich in natural ingredients like aloe vera or coconut oil to enhance hydration.
● Apply a protective layer of oil or moisturizer
Applying a protective layer of oil or moisturizer is a simple yet effective way to shield your skin from Holi colors. Coconut oil, almond oil, or a heavy moisturizer can be applied all over your face and body before stepping out. These oils create a barrier that prevents colors from seeping into your skin, reducing the risk of irritation and allergic reactions. Moreover, this layer makes it easier to wash off the colors afterward, minimizing the need for harsh scrubbing that can further damage your skin.
● Don’t forget sunscreen
Since Holi is typically played outdoors, it's essential to protect your skin from UV exposure. The sun's rays can cause damage like sunburns, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher provides comprehensive protection against UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen about 30 minutes before going outside to ensure it absorbs well into your skin. Reapply every two hours or immediately after washing off colors to maintain protection throughout the day.
● Keep your nails and lips protected
Your lips and nails are particularly sensitive areas that can be easily damaged by Holi colors. Applying petroleum jelly or lip balm on your lips helps prevent colors from staining and drying them out. Similarly, applying petroleum jelly around your nails protects them from color stains and keeps them moisturized. This simple step can prevent dryness and irritation in these sensitive areas.
Post-holi skincare tips
The festival of colors brings joy and excitement, but the harsh chemicals in synthetic colors can leave your skin feeling dry, irritated, and sensitive. To restore your skin’s health and glow, follow these essential post-Holi skincare tips:
● Gentle cleansing is key
Avoid scrubbing your skin aggressively to remove colors, as this can cause irritation and damage. Instead, use a mild, sulfate-free cleanser or an oil-based cleanser to gently lift off the colors without stripping your skin of its natural oils. Oil-based cleansers are particularly effective as most Holi colors are fat-soluble, making them easier to remove.
● Use natural remedies to remove colors
Harsh soaps can further irritate your skin after Holi. Opt for natural remedies like milk, gram flour (besan), or yogurt in your post holi skin care routine and also to remove stubborn color stains. These ingredients not only cleanse the skin gently but also soothe it. For instance, a paste of gram flour and milk can act as a natural exfoliant while maintaining your skin’s moisture balance.
● Rehydrate your skin
Playing Holi often leaves your skin dehydrated due to exposure to the sun and chemicals in colors. Rehydrate your skin by applying an alcohol-free toner to restore its pH balance, followed by a deep hydrating moisturizer. Look for moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or shea butter for intense hydration.
● Soothe your skin with aloe vera or rose water
If your skin feels irritated or inflamed, apply fresh aloe vera gel or rose water to calm it down. Aloe vera is known for its anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and irritation, while rose water acts as a natural toner and soothes sensitive skin.
● Apply a nourishing face mask
Pamper your skin with a nourishing homemade face mask to restore its natural glow. A mix of honey, yogurt, and turmeric works wonders in repairing damage, hydrating the skin, and brightening your complexion. These ingredients also help in reducing any lingering effects of chemical exposure.
● Avoid exfoliating immediately
Your skin may be sensitive after Holi due to prolonged exposure to colors and sunlight. Avoid exfoliating for at least 2-3 days to prevent further irritation or micro-tears in the skin barrier. Allow your skin time to heal before using any scrubs or exfoliating products.
Holi Hai! But First, Skincare With Oteria
Oteria is a skincare brand that blends modern science with traditional Indian ingredients to create gentle, effective, and toxin-free formulations for all skin types and genders. Its products are made as per the body’s circadian rhythm. This ensures that pre and post holi skincare routines are optimized to work in harmony with the natural biological clock, addressing the skin's specific needs at different times of the day. Here are some champion products that can help you protect your skin this holi:
Green Coffee Body Shower Gel
Oteria’s Green Coffee Body Shower Gel is designed to enhance skin radiance and nourishment for all skin types. Infused with the goodness of green coffee, it not only cleanses but also heals, rejuvenates, and repairs damaged skin, restoring a natural glow. Whether you're looking for the best body wash for men to refresh and energize your skin or a body wash for women that provides deep hydration and nourishment, Oteria’s formula ensures a smooth, revitalized feel after every wash. Packed with essential nutrients, this shower gel improves skin texture, leaving it soft, healthy, and radiant.
Benefits
● Hydrates & nourishes skin
● Restores radiance & glow
● Promotes youthful and fresh skin
● Keeps skin hydrated
● Improves skin texture
● Repairs and heals damaged skin cells
Key ingredients
Green Coffee Extract: Hydrates, nourishes and revitalizes skin, unveiling a youthful, radiant glow for all-day skin rejuvenation.
How to use
Pour the shower gel on a wet loofah or palm. Apply to wet skin, work into a lather, and rinse.
Caution
FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY. Keep protected from light and moisture at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Keep out of reach of children.
Whipped Body Yogurt
Oteria’s Whipped Body Yogurt, infused with Red Algae Extract, is a hydrating treat for the skin. It boasts a non-sticky, quick-absorbing formula that revitalizes stressed skin while providing intense hydration. This yogurt helps to nourish and soften the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Oteria’s Whipped Body Yogurt, infused with Red Algae Extract, is a luxurious body yogurt for women that delivers deep hydration without any sticky residue. It's lightweight, quick-absorbing formula revitalizes stressed skin, making it the perfect cream after shower to lock in moisture and keep your skin soft and nourished all day. Whether you need a daily dose of hydration or a pampering session, this body yogurt leaves your skin feeling refreshed, smooth, and rejuvenated.
Benefits
● Promotes smooth and healthy skin
● Quick-absorbing formula
● Non-sticky
● Instantly hydrates and refreshes the skin
Key ingredients
Red algae extract: Enhances skin suppleness and hydration.
How to use
Apply product as needed and massage into damp skin post shower, or when skin needs hydration.
Caution
FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY. Keep protected from light and moisture at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Keep out of reach of children.
Sun-Kissed Suncare Gel
Oteria’s Sun-Kissed Suncare Gel is your ultimate sun protection gel, formulated with Aloe Vera & Vegetable Pear to shield against UVA damage and prevent sunburns. This lightweight after sun care gel helps in sun damage skin repair, soothing irritation while restoring your skin’s natural radiance. Say goodbye to sunburn and hello to healthy, nourished skin!
Benefits
● Protects the skin from UVA-induced DNA lesions
● Preserves epidermal stem cells
● Shields the skin from photo-aging
● Smoothes the skin and visibly reduces wrinkles
● Improves skin tone homogeneity
● Provides a healthy lucent complexion
● Soothes & Cools Skin
Key Ingredients
Aloe Vera: Keeps skin hydrated and moisturized.
Vegetable Pear: Natural antioxidants to combat sun damage.
How to use
Take a pea-sized amount of gel into the palm and gently massage onto your face and neck in upward strokes.
Caution
FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY. Keep protected from light and moisture at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Keep out of reach of children.
Check out our entire range of products here.
Holi is a time of joy, celebration, and vibrant colors, but it is important to prioritize your skin’s health before and after the festivities. With the right pre-Holi precautions and post-Holi care, you can enjoy the festival without compromising your skin’s well-being. From hydration and sun protection to gentle cleansing and nourishment, small steps go a long way in keeping your skin radiant and healthy. Oteria’s thoughtfully crafted skincare products ensure that your skin remains protected, hydrated, and rejuvenated throughout the celebration. So, play Holi fearlessly, knowing your skincare needs are well taken care of!
FAQs
1) Why is pre-Holi skincare important?
Pre-Holi skincare helps create a protective barrier against harsh synthetic colors, reducing the risk of irritation, dryness, and allergic reactions. It also makes post-Holi cleanup easier.
2) Which oils are best for protecting the skin before playing Holi?
Coconut oil, almond oil, and olive oil are great options as they create a hydrating layer that prevents colors from seeping into the skin and makes them easier to wash off.
3) How can I protect my hair during Holi?
Apply a generous amount of oil (coconut or argan oil) to your hair before playing, cover it with a scarf or cap if possible, and wash it with a mild sulfate-free shampoo afterward.
4) What should I do if Holi colors cause irritation or an allergic reaction?
Rinse the affected area with cold water and apply aloe vera gel or rose water to soothe irritation. If symptoms persist, consult a dermatologist.
5) How can I remove stubborn Holi colors without damaging my skin?
Use oil-based cleansers, milk, or a gentle mixture of gram flour (besan) and yogurt to lift colors without excessive scrubbing, which can cause skin damage.
6) Should I exfoliate my skin immediately after Holi?
No, avoid exfoliating for at least 2-3 days after Holi, as the skin may be sensitive. Instead, focus on hydration and soothing skincare.
7) Why is sunscreen necessary even when playing Holi?
Holi is played outdoors, and sun exposure combined with chemicals in colors can cause sunburn and skin damage. A broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen protects against UV rays.
8) Which Oteria products can help with Holi skincare?
Oteria’s Green Coffee Body Shower Gel cleanses and nourishes the skin post-Holi, Whipped Body Yogurt provides deep hydration, and Sun-Kissed Suncare Gel soothes and protects against sun damage.