Skincare For Holi

Popular folklore traces the origins of Holi to the love story of Lord Krishna and his beloved, Radha. It is said that Krishna was unable to reconcile his dark complexion with Radha’s fairer skin, to which his mother suggested he smear colour of his choice on Radha’s face. This marked the beginning of Holi, as the festival of colours.

A lesser known fact about Holi is that it is also the festival of Love (the Indian Valentine’s Day!), as it is celebrated in honour of Kamadeva, the Indian god of love. Accompanying his close companion Spring (“Vasantha”), Kamadeva, has traditionally been described as a handsome youth, carrying a sugarcane bow with flower decorated arrows aimed at prospective lovers.

Although it finds origins in India, Holi as we know today, is a festival celebrated across countries, cultures and religions; further symbolic of what it stands for- love and unity.

While originally, the colours used in Holi celebrations were made of natural, plant based sources such as Turmeric (Yellow Colour), Rose (Red Colour), and Henna (Green Colour); today, chemically charged colours are used, that are not only harmful for your skin but also for the overall health of the body.

As Ayurveda believes prevention is better than cure, it is recommended to prepare your skin well in advance to shield your skin from the ill effects of chemical colours.

Body & Hair Care:

Gently massage the Forest Essentials Cold Pressed Sesame Oil onto the body and hair. This oil is extremely nutrient rich for nourishing and toning the skin, and will shield colour chemicals from seeping into the skin and from damaging your hair.

Facial Care:

After cleansing your face, apply the Forest Essentials Lavender & Neroli Light Day Lotion. This light weight lotion is recommended for all skin types, to moisturize the skin and keep it well hydrated, without it looking greasy. Additionally, it protects your skin from exposure to harsh rays of the sun, as the lotion contains “Yasada Bhasma”- a natural sunscreen (SPF 25). The lotion also contains Almond, Wheat germ and Olive oils- which prevent the skin from the damaging effect of free radicals in Holi colours.

Seal your lips with long hours of moisture and hydration, and a glossy appearance with the Forest Essentials Kokum Butter & Honey Lip Balm. Replacing petroleum and chemical products, the product’s pure, natural, and organic ingredients provide the ultimate protection from Holi colours and long hours of dehydrating celebrations.

Once you’ve immersed yourself in this protective layer of skincare before your Holi preparation, you’ll find your post Holi cleanse quite effortless, and the protection will serve handy for the long term health of your skin.