Holi is all about colours and delicious foods and drinks. But the Holi colours can also leave your hair dry, tangled, and damaged. To ensure that your hair remains healthy and shiny even after the celebrations, it is important to follow a proper hair care routine. Using natural hair oils and masks can provide a holistic approach to treating Holi-related hair damage. Even applying hair masks with oils can deeply moisturise your hair follicles and act as a barrier against harsh Holi colours. Let us tell you how hair oil and masks can protect your tresses from Holi colours.

Is it good to apply oil on hair before Holi?

Hair oils are an effective way to protect your hair against harsh Holi colours. Oils like coconut oil, sesame oil, and Ayurvedic herbal oils create a physical layer on the hair shaft, forming a protective barrier that minimises colour absorption into the hair cuticle, says Ayurveda expert Dr Arathi Vasudeva. This layer not only reduces the damage caused by the colours, but also makes it easier to remove them after the celebrations. Using hair oils before playing Holi can go a long way in keeping your hair healthy and looking great.

Which hair oil is the best for Holi?

Here are some of the best hair oils to protect hair from Holi colours.

1. Coconut oil

Coconut oil is considered to be one of the best hair oils, as it can penetrate the hair shaft. It contains lauric acid which helps to strengthen the hair and offers antimicrobial properties for scalp protection.

2. Sesame oil

This oil is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and provides a thick protective layer with natural UV protection while nourishing and moisturising the hair. It is another natural and best hair oil to provide an effective barrier against harmful Holi colours.

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3. Ayurvedic herbal oils

Formulated with botanical extracts, Ayurvedic herbal oils like neem, amla, and Brahmi offers many benefits. The list includes scalp nourishment, hair growth stimulation, and dandruff prevention.

Applying these hair oils generously before Holi ensures comprehensive coverage, says the expert. Washing with a mild herbal hair cleanser afterward, effectively removes colours and oil residue, leaving the hair clean and refreshing.

What are the benefits of oiling hair before Holi?

Incorporating hair oiling into your Holi hair care routine can offer many benefits.

• It acts as a shield, forming a protective barrier that safeguards the hair from the harsh chemicals in Holi colours. This not only prevents immediate damage, but also ensures easier colour removal post-celebrations without risking hair breakage or loss.
• Hair oils also help in retaining moisture within the hair shaft, countering the drying effects of the vibrant pigments.
• The nourishing properties of many hair oils, enriched with vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids, nourish the hair and scalp, fostering overall hair health and strength, says the expert.

DIY hair masks to keep your hair safe from Holi colours

You can also put a little bit of oil in your DIY hair masks!

1. Curd and honey for dry hair

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of curd
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 2 tablespoons of coconut oil

Method

• Combine these ingredients to make a hair mask.
• Apply the hair mask to your hair and scalp, and leave it on for 30 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly with a gentle shampoo or herbal hair cleansing shampoo.

2. Coconut oil and aloe vera mask

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon of aloe vera

Method

• Mix equal parts of coconut oil and fresh aloe vera gel.
• Apply the mixture generously to the hair and scalp.
• Leave it on for at least an hour before playing Holi.
• Wash off with a mild herbal cleanser or shampoo afterward.

3. Olive oil and honey mask

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Method

• Mix 2 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of honey.
• Apply the mixture to your hair and scalp, focusing on the ends.
• Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour.
• Rinse off with lukewarm water and herbal hair cleanser

4. Sesame oil and curry leaves

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• A handful curry leaves

Method

• Heat sesame oil in a pan over low heat.
• Add fresh curry leaves and simmer until crisp and sesame oil is infused.
• Let the oil cool then strain to remove curry leaves.
• Apply infused oil to scalp and hair, massage, and leave on for 1 to 2 hours.
• Rinse with lukewarm water and mild herbal powder or shampoo to remove any residue.

While hair oils can be beneficial for most people, individuals with certain scalp conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis or oily scalp may want to avoid heavy oil application. Also, those allergic to specific oils or ingredients should also refrain from using them.