Dermatologist‑Approved Skin & Hair Care Routine for Holi 2026

Holi is the festival of joy and colours. However, the bright colors and water-based celebration can be harsh on your skin and hair.
If you do not take proper care, Holi colors can lead to dryness, irritation, and damage. This is why Dr. Niti Gaur, a leading dermatologist at Citrine Clinic with experience of more than 21+ years suggests some simple yet effective tips to protect your skin and hair before, during, and after Holi. These tips help you enjoy the festival without worries.

Here’s your dermatologist‑approved skin and hair care routine for Holi 2026.

Before Holi: Get Your Skin and Hair Ready

Preparation is key. Your skin and hair are less likely to absorb colour if they are properly protected.

Skin Prep

• Cleanse your face gently the night before.
• Apply a rich moisturizer to create a barrier. This prevents colour penetration. 
• Do not forget to apply a sunscreen with SPF 30+ 
• Apply either coconut oil or almond oil on areas such as the face, arms, neck etc. 
• Avoid heavy makeup. It can trap colours and make removal harder.

Hair Prep

• Wash your hair with a mild shampoo the day before.
• Apply a generous amount of coconut or olive oil from roots to tips. Oil helps prevent colours from sticking.
• Leave the oil in — don’t wash it out before playing.
• If you have long hair, braid it or tie it up.

During Holi: Smart Choices on the Big Day

Playing Holi is fun, but smart choices make you less prone to skin and hair issues.

Skincare Tips for Holi Day

• Apply sunscreen every 2–3 hours.
• Wear clothes that cover your skin like long sleeves and full‑length pants.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Avoid scrubbing your skin forcefully if colours stick.
• If you feel irritation, wash that area immediately with clean water.

Hair Care Tips for Holi Day

• Wear a hat or scarf if possible.
• Try to avoid direct colour on the scalp.
• Don’t let colours remain in your hair for long. Rinse lightly with water if possible.
• Avoid harsh rubbing of hair during the day.

Post-Holi Recovery 

How you remove the color is just as important as how you protect yourself. Most skin damage happens during the scrubbing phase.

1. The Initial Rinse

Don't jump straight to the soap. Rinse your face and body with plenty of plain, lukewarm water. Let the loose color wash away naturally first.

2. No Harsh Scrubbing

Avoid using hard soaps, detergents, or body scrubs. They will tear your skin barrier.

• Use a soap-free, mild cleanser.
• Tip: If the color is not removed, you can use a cotton pad soaked in cleansing oil. Rub the area gently so that the pigment dissolves.

3. Hair Washing Tips

• Rinse your hair properly until the water runs clear. Use a sulfate free shampoo. 
• Always follow up with a deep-conditioning mask. Let it remain for a few minutes to restore the moisture. 

4. Soothe and Repair

After bathing, your skin might feel slightly itchy.

• Apply a thick, ceramide-based moisturizer.
• Use pure Aloe Vera gel on any areas that feel burnt or irritated.
• Avoid any parlor treatments like waxing, threading, or facials for at least a week.

Common Mistakes to Steer Clear Of

• Hot Water Baths: Hot water can set the color into your skin and dry it out further. Stick to cool or lukewarm water.
• Using Acetone: Some individuals use acetone to remove colors that are stubborn. It is essential to understand that this can be dangerous and can cause burns. 
• Skipping Moisturizer: Even if your skin feels oily, the chemicals have likely dehydrated it. Always moisturize after washing.

When to See a Dermatologist

Most irritation after Holi is mild. But at times, problems can occur or even worsen. You must seek professional help from Dr. Niti Gaur, renowned dermatologist if you notice:  

• Severe redness or swelling.
• Intense itching that won’t go away.
• Dry, flaky patches on the skin.
• Hair breakage or prolonged hair fall after the festival.

At Citrine Clinic, we are here to help you get your glow back if the festival takes a toll on your skin. We offer advanced post-holi recovery procedures to restore your skin’s health.

Pro Tips from Our Expert Dermatologist: Dr. Niti Gaur

Here are some additional tips that dermatologists suggest for every Holi season:

• Avoid using chemical colors. Herbal colors are gentle on your skin.
• Before using any new product, apply it to a small area of your skin first.
• If you experience any heat or irritation, you can apply aloe vera gel.
• After a week, you can get a hydrafacial to replenish your skin.