How to remove Holi colour from hair: Check these simple and easy tips to follow before and after playing with gulaal

With Holi, the festival of colours, being celebrated on March 4, 2026, people are already looking for tips how to take care of their hair from chemical-laden colours. From dryness and irritation to frizz and breakage, post-Holi damage to hair has always remained a concern. But if you follow a right and structured hair care routine before and after playing Holi, then you can not only enjoy the festival without any stress, but also without compromising your well-being. We have curated a list of simple, easy remedies that you can use to remove holi colour from your hair.

How to remove Holi colour from hair

You can follow these steps to remove holi colour from your hair (before, during & after):

Before Holi


Oil your hair thoroughly

Massage coconut, almond, olive or argan oil into your scalp and along the strands. This creates a protective layer so colour pigments don’t penetrate deeply and makes them easier to wash off later.

Don’t wash hair just before playing

Washing strips natural oils. Slightly “greasy” hair holds colours less and is better protected.

Tie your hair

Braids, buns or ponytails reduce surface exposure, tangling and breakage from dry colours.

Cover your head

Use a scarf, bandana, cap or even a shower cap when possible — this blocks a lot of colour contact.

Opt for organic or herbal colours

Chemical-based Holi powders can be harsh on hair and scalp; natural colours are gentler and much easier to wash out.

ALSO READ: Holi 2026 Skin Care Tips: Check five easy and simple hacks to protect your skin before and after applying colours



While playing Holi



Minimising wet colour exposure

Wet colours can carry chemicals deeper into hair and scalp — playing a dry Holi (“gulal-only”) helps reduce absorption

Avoid rough handling

Try not to rub or scratch hair while colours are on — it can cause breakage.

How to remove colour from hair after playing Holi

Rinse first with plain water



This removes loose particles before shampooing.

Use mild, sulfate‑free shampoo

Harsh shampoos strip oils; gentle formulas clean without drying out hair.

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Deep condition / mask treatment



Follow washing with a rich conditioner or a nourishing hair mask to restore moisture and softness.

Avoid heat styling immediately after

Hair can already be stressed after Holi — heat tools can worsen dryness and breakage.

Be gentle with wet hair

Comb only after air‑drying or towel‑drying with a wide‑tooth comb to prevent breakage.