Holi is all about colours, fun, and celebration—but once the festivities end, removing those stubborn colours from your skin and hair can feel like a task. Many Holi colours contain synthetic dyes and chemicals that can dry out skin, damage hair, and cause irritation if not removed properly.
Here’s a safe, effective, and skin-friendly guide to help you get rid of Holi colours without harming your skin or hair.
Avoid these common mistakes that can worsen damage:
Do not scrub harshly with nails or rough loofahs
Avoid using acetone, nail polish remover, or strong alcohol
Do not shampoo repeatedly in one go
Avoid hot water immediately after Holi
Oil helps loosen colour pigments from the skin.
Best oils to use:
Coconut oil
Olive oil
Baby oil
Almond oil
How to use:
Massage gently on coloured areas using circular motions. Leave it for 10–15 minutes, then wipe off with a soft cotton cloth.
After oiling, wash with a gentle, sulphate-free cleanser or mild soap.
Tip: Choose cleansers with aloe vera, glycerin, or oat extracts to prevent dryness.
A traditional and safe remedy.
DIY Pack:
2 tbsp gram flour
1 tbsp curd or milk
A few drops of lemon (optional)
Apply gently, let it semi-dry, and wash off with lukewarm water.
Aloe vera helps remove colour while calming irritation.
Apply fresh or pure aloe vera gel, massage gently, and rinse with water.
After cleaning, apply a rich moisturiser or natural butter (shea or cocoa) to restore hydration.
Never shampoo dry, coloured hair directly.
Massage coconut, olive, or castor oil into your scalp and hair lengths. Leave it for 30–60 minutes.
Choose a sulphate-free or baby shampoo.
Wash gently and repeat only if necessary. Avoid clarifying shampoos immediately after Holi.
Apply a deep conditioner or hair mask after shampooing.
Natural hair mask options:
Curd + coconut oil
Banana + honey
Aloe vera gel + almond oil
Leave for 15–20 minutes before rinsing.
If colour remains after one wash:
Wait 1–2 days before washing again
Use oil massage again before the next wash
Avoid chemical treatments for at least a week
Avoid blow-dryers, straighteners, or curling irons for a few days. Let your hair air-dry naturally.
| Problem | Safe Remedy |
|---|---|
| Dry skin | Milk cream (malai) massage |
| Itchy scalp | Aloe vera gel |
| Hair roughness | Curd + oil mask |
| Red or irritated skin | Rose water + glycerin |
Drink plenty of water to hydrate skin from within
Use sunscreen if stepping out after Holi
Apply body lotion twice daily for 2–3 days
Avoid waxing, threading, or chemical facials immediately
Use natural ingredients like coconut oil, olive oil, milk, curd, or aloe vera gel to gently loosen colours. Massage softly and rinse with lukewarm water. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
No, avoid using strong soaps right away. Start with oil cleansing first, then use a mild, pH-balanced cleanser to prevent dryness and irritation.
Apply oil or conditioner to dry hair before washing. Use a sulfate-free shampoo, followed by a deep conditioner or hair mask to restore moisture.
Lemon and baking soda are not recommended as they can irritate the skin and damage hair, especially after sun exposure during Holi.
Most Holi colours fade within 2–5 days with gentle cleansing and proper moisturising. Avoid repeated harsh washing.
If irritation occurs, apply aloe vera gel or calamine lotion. If symptoms persist, consult a dermatologist.
Yes, but only use natural oils, milk, or baby-safe cleansers. Avoid chemical products and excessive rubbing.
Yes, oil-based makeup removers or micellar water can effectively remove Holi colours from the face without causing damage.
Apply oil or moisturiser generously on skin and hair before playing Holi. Wear protective clothing and cover your hair.
If you experience burning sensation, rashes, swelling, or severe itching that lasts more than 24 hours, seek medical advice immediately.