Tips for Playing Holi with Acne: Pre and Post-Holi Skincare

3/20/20242 min read

a woman's hand holding a bottle of lotion
a woman's hand holding a bottle of lotion

Playing Holi with Acne: Pre-Holi Tips

With the festive season of Holi approaching, it's important to take extra care of your skin, especially if you have acne. Here are some pre-Holi tips from Dr. Ishmeet Kaur, consultant dermatologist at Dermosphere clinic, to ensure that you can enjoy the festival without aggravating your skin condition:

  1. Prepare your skin: Start by cleansing your face with a gentle, acne-friendly cleanser. This will help remove any excess oil or dirt and prepare your skin for the festivities.

  2. Moisturize: Apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. This will create a barrier between your skin and the colors, preventing them from directly coming into contact with your acne-prone areas.

  3. Apply sunscreen: Don't forget to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF and apply it generously on all exposed areas of your body.

  4. Avoid heavy makeup: While it might be tempting to go all out with colorful makeup, heavy products can clog your pores and worsen your acne. Opt for minimal makeup or stick to natural, non-comedogenic products.

  5. Wear protective clothing: Cover your body with lightweight, full-sleeved clothing to minimize direct contact with the colors. This will help prevent any skin irritation or breakouts.

Playing Holi with Acne: Post-Holi Tips

After the fun-filled Holi celebrations, it's crucial to follow a proper skincare routine to prevent any adverse reactions and soothe your skin. Here are some post-Holi tips from Dr Deepak Jakhar, consultant dermatologist at Dermosphere clinic:

  1. Gently cleanse your skin: Use a mild cleanser to remove the color from your skin. Avoid scrubbing vigorously as it can irritate your acne-prone areas.

  2. Moisturize again: After cleansing, apply a soothing and hydrating moisturizer to replenish your skin's moisture barrier. Look for ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile, known for their calming properties.

  3. Avoid harsh products: Refrain from using any harsh exfoliants or acne treatments immediately after Holi. Give your skin some time to recover before resuming your regular skincare routine.

  4. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins from your body and keep your skin hydrated from within.

What to Avoid and What to Do if Any Skin Reaction Happens

While playing Holi with acne, it's important to be cautious and avoid certain things that can further irritate your skin. Here are some things to avoid and what to do if any skin reaction occurs:

  • Avoid harsh colors: Stay away from colors that contain chemicals or artificial dyes, as they can be harsh on your skin. Opt for natural and organic colors instead.

  • Avoid excessive rubbing: Refrain from rubbing or scrubbing your skin vigorously while removing the colors. This can cause irritation and worsen your acne.

  • If any skin reaction occurs: If you experience any redness, itching, or irritation after playing Holi, rinse your skin with cold water and apply a soothing, anti-inflammatory cream or gel. If the symptoms persist, consult a dermatologist for further guidance.

By following these pre-Holi and post-Holi tips, you can enjoy the festival of colors while taking care of your acne-prone skin. Remember, prevention and gentle care are key to maintaining healthy skin during Holi.