Get Holi-ready hair: Tips and tricks to prepare and protect your locks

Holi is just round the corner, and it’s time to soak in the festive spirits, right? However, amidst the excitement of choosing outfits and planning celebrations, it’s also crucial to prioritise hair care. Your mane not only needs to look fabulous but also requires protection from the aftermath of Holi colours. Fret not! Just follow this pre and post Holi hair care routine that promises both. Read on…

Pre-Holi hair care routine

It’s best to skip using any styling or heating product to the hair before playing with colours

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Start your hair care routine for Holi at least a day before the festival begins. Break it into three simple steps to prep your hair to look great and protect it as well.

Hot oil treatment:

If you’re not allergic to hair oils, warm up your chosen oil and begin by gently massaging your scalp with your fingertips. Point to note: Ensure that the hair oil is lukewarm and your scalp is not responding adversely to the heat. Next, soak a towel in hot water, wring it out, and wrap it around your head like a turban. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Allow your hair to air dry, Then, detangle it with a wooden comb — and sleep.

Deep conditioning:

While it would be ideal to attend a Holi party with pre-oiled hair, many of us would rather not do so. But remember, deep conditioning your hair before playing colours is a must. Use a gentle shampoo — preferably sulphate and paraben free — followed by a nourishing leave-in conditioner and coat the hair with serum. It’s best to skip using any styling products or heat on the hair before playing with colours.

Hair styling:

Even if the colours are chemical free, abir or gulal can still make your hair dry and frizzy — and the scalp itchy. Hence, letting the hair down, literally, is not a good idea. But, that does not mean styling should take a backseat. From fishtail braids, Dutch breads, crown braids, braided buns, classic buns to top knots — there are options galore. Add hair accessories or flowers to zhuzh up the look.

Post-Holi hair care routine

Give your hair wash routine a some extra time to ensure a proper clean up and restore its health

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The colour extravaganza requires thorough cleaning. Powder colours or liquid colours tend to stick to the scalp and irritate the skin. They also make the hair dry. Give your hair care routine a few more minutes to ensure a proper clean up and restore its health.

A patient wash:

Don’t rush. Don’t scratch the scalp. Don’t exert pressure while brushing. Instead, give your hair a wash with lukewarm water. Use a gentle shampoo and double clean your hair — from top to bottom — focusing on the scalp and moving towards the ends. Rinse thoroughly and use a deep and nourishing conditioner. If your scalp still has colour stains, repeat the double-cleansing process the next day using the same routine.

Hair mask a must:

Between shampoo and conditioner, lather your hair with a mask

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Invest in a good hair mask that suits your scalp and hair type. Between shampoo and conditioner, lather your hair with a mask. Exposure to the sun, pollution and the aftermath of Holi colours demands an additional layer of protection.

The final touch:

Apply serum and allow your hair to air dry before brushing

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Apply serum and allow your hair to air dry. Once completely dry, brush it thoroughly. If you have long hair, stick to your routine of tying it up. Remember, tight braids are a big No. If you haven’t already, invest in a satin hair mask, wear it to bed, and enjoy a good night’s sleep. The next morning, apply aloe vera gel to your hair — if you’re not allergic — and leave it on for about 10 minutes before washing it out.