Pre-Holi Skincare: How to Protect Your Skin from Colors Naturally

Holi, the festival of colors and joy, is celebrated with immense enthusiasm across India. From indulging in delicious sweets to vibrant color play, it remains one of the most cherished and festive occasions of the year.
But did you know that most of the Holi colors contain harmful chemicals like lead oxide, mercury sulfite, and industrial dyes? These substances pose multiple health risks.
In this blog, you will learn the impact of Holi colors on your skin, pre-Holi skincare tips to create a protective barrier, how to protect your skin during Holi with simple yet effective tips and post-Holi skincare routine to reverse damage and restore hydration to ensure your skin stays healthy, hydrated, and radiant.
The Harmful Effects of Holi Colors on Your Skin
Most synthetic Holi colors contain harsh chemicals and toxic metals, which include lead (causing skin irritation), chromium (leading to allergic reactions), and mercury sulfite (linked to long-term skin damage and pigmentation issues).
These chemicals can penetrate the skin, potentially causing skin irritation, eye allergies, and even long-term health complications.
Additionally, they strip away the natural oils from your skin, leaving it dry, sensitive, and prone to rashes. Additionally, fine powder-based colors can clog pores, triggering skin breakouts and aggravating conditions like acne and eczema.
To ensure a safe and skin-friendly Holi, it is essential to take preventive measures by following a proper pre and post-Holi skincare routine and opting for organic, natural colors.
How to Protect Skin During Holi: Essential Do’s and Don’ts
Even with the best pre-Holi skincare tips, it is still important to follow some rules while playing Holi to prevent color penetration and irritation.
The Do’s
- Use organic, natural colors to reduce skin irritation.
- Wear full-sleeved clothes to minimise direct skin exposure to colors.
- Rinse your face with plain water to prevent colors from settling.
- Apply a thick layer of lip balm on the lips and oil on the nails to prevent color staining.
- Use hair oil on the scalp and coat the hair surface from root to tip to avoid hair damage.
- In case of allergy or redness on the skin, wash with plenty of fresh, cold water.
The Don’ts
- Don’t scrub your skin vigorously while removing colors. This can cause rashes.
- Avoid using permanent and metallic colors for color play, as they contain heavy metal extracts.
- Avoid using harsh soaps or alcohol-based cleansers to remove colors, as they strip away moisture.
- Don’t expose your skin to direct sunlight for long hours after applying colors, as it may cause pigmentation.
Post-Holi Skincare: How to Restore Your Skin’s Health Naturally
Once the Holi celebrations are over, it is time to gently cleanse and restore your skin. Here is a simple yet effective post-Holi skincare routine you can follow.
1. Cleanse Gently with Lukewarm or Cold Water
- Avoid using hot water, as it makes colors stick to the skin's surface.
- Use a mild, sulfate-free cleanser to wash off color without stripping natural oils.
- Wash hair with a paraben-free herbal hair cleanser to maintain the moisture of the scalp.
2. Nourish Your Skin with a Lightweight Face Oil
- Skin needs intense hydration to repair damage caused by colors.
- Apply a natural face oil infused with herbal Ayurvedic extracts like Gotu Kola, Moringa Leaf, Almond Oil, and Sandalwood Oil. It helps to:
- Soothe irritation
- Replenish moisture
- Reduce redness
3. Avoid Scrubbing Your Skin
- Scrubbing too hard can cause redness and irritation.
- Use a natural yogurt and honey face pack to remove residual colors gently from the skin's surface and cleanse and moisturise at the same time.
4. Hydrate and Detox from Within
- Drink herbal teas, coconut water, and plenty of fluids to flush out toxins.
- Include antioxidant-rich foods like berries, almonds, and turmeric in your diet for skin recovery.
Hydrate and Repair with Nisarga Herbs Face Oil
Holi is meant to be a celebration of colors, happiness, and love, not skin woes. By following these easy pre and post-Holi skincare tips and taking preventive measures, you can enjoy the festival without compromising your skin health.
Keep in mind that your skin needs deep hydration and nourishment to repair the damage caused by the chemical-based colors and restore its natural glow.
Nisarga Herbs Face Oil is an ideal pre and post-Holi skincare solution, packed with the goodness of:
- Gotu Kola & Amla – These boost collagen and purify the skin.
- Almond & Apricot Oil – Balances sebum production, preventing acne and blackheads.
- Sandalwood Oil - Reduces blemishes and soothes irritation.
This non-sticky, lightweight oil is perfect for keeping your skin soft, radiant, and healthy. Explore Nisarga Herbs' range of Ayurvedic products and give your skin the care it truly deserves.
With the right skincare routine and the power of nourishing Ayurvedic oils, you can restore the radiance of your skin.
This Holi, let your skin glow as much as your festive spirit!

Dr. Arati Soman
Dr. Arati Soman is a seasoned Ayurvedic physician and Head Formulator at Nisarga Herbs. Driven by a deep passion for Ayurveda and vast expertise, she has been instrumental in formulating medicines, diagnostic procedures, and innovative Ayurvedic treatments that are trusted globally.