Holi, the festival of colours, is all about vibrant hues, fun-filled celebrations, and an explosion of joy. But while your skin and hair may be prepped to take on the festival, have you thought about your nails? The stubborn stains, excessive dryness, and brittle texture left behind after Holi can make your nails look dull and damaged. However, with a little pre- and post-Holi care, you can ensure your nails remain healthy and stain-free.

To help you maintain your nail health, we spoke to two nail experts, Neelam Jaiswal, Nail Artist at Looks Salon, and Namika Kant, Technical Expert at Envi Salons, who shared their top tips for protecting your nails from Holi damage.
Pre-Holi nail protection: Prep your nails like a pro
Before you step out to immerse yourself in Holi celebrations, make sure to take these preventive measures.
Apply a protective coat of nail polish
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your nails is by applying a thick layer of nail polish. If you love colour, opt for darker shades like deep red, maroon, or navy blue, as they can help camouflage any stains. For those who prefer a natural look, Neelam Jaiswal advises, “Men can also apply a coat of clear nail polish to prevent Holi colours from seeping into the nails and cuticles, avoiding stains and nail damage.”
Seal your cuticles with oil or petroleum jelly
Holi colours tend to settle into the nail beds and cuticles, making them difficult to remove. To prevent this, massage your nails with cuticle oil or coconut oil before playing Holi. Neelam suggests, “You can also apply cuticle oil or petroleum jelly on your nails so the Holi colours don’t stick — the oil or jelly helps the colours come off easily.”
Keep your nails short
If you’re planning on playing Holi, keeping your nails trimmed is a smart move. Short nails accumulate less colour and dirt, reducing the chances of stubborn stains. This also prevents colour particles from getting stuck under long nails, which can be challenging to clean later.
Wear gloves if you have acrylic nails
For those who love their acrylic nails or gel extensions, Holi can be quite a nightmare. The harsh chemicals in synthetic colours can weaken artificial nails and cause discolouration. “If you have acrylic nails, consider wearing disposable gloves to protect them from damage,” advises Neelam.
Post-Holi nail care: Repair and restore
Once the celebrations are over, it’s time to give your nails the care they deserve. Here’s how you can ensure they remain strong, stain-free, and healthy.
Remove colours gently
Scrubbing your nails harshly will only weaken them further. Instead, opt for a non-acetone nail polish remover to gently clean off any colour residue. If Holi stains are particularly stubborn, soak your nails in warm water with lemon juice for a few minutes before wiping them off. The natural acids in lemon help break down colours and leave your nails looking fresh.

Deeply nourish with oils
Holi colours can strip moisture from your nails, making them brittle and dry. To restore hydration, massage almond oil, vitamin E oil, or argan oil into your nails and cuticles. According to Namika Kant, “Massaging your nails with hydrating oils post-Holi is essential to replenish lost moisture and restore nail health.”
Strengthen your nails with special treatments
If your nails feel weak or brittle after Holi, use a strengthening serum or a nail mask infused with aloe vera and biotin. These ingredients help repair damage and promote stronger, healthier nails.
Opt for a professional nail treatment
If your nails need extra care, consider visiting a salon for a professional manicure and pedicure. Namika recommends some of the best post-Holi treatments available at Envi Salons:
Moisturizing manicure – Includes deep cuticle hydration and a nourishing mask to restore nail health.
Gel polish refresh – A new layer of gel polish to restore shine and strength.
Nail overlays – Strengthens your natural nails and prevents breakage post-Holi.
Paraffin wax treatment – Heals dry, cracked nails with intense hydration.
Nail spa treatment – A luxurious soak with essential oils and vitamins for complete nail recovery.

Exfoliate with a DIY hand scrub
A simple homemade scrub can do wonders for removing stubborn colour stains. Mix sugar, honey, and a few drops of lemon juice to create an effective exfoliant. Gently massage this onto your hands and nails to slough off dead skin and any lingering colour residue.
A little care goes a long way
Holi may leave behind colourful memories, but your nails shouldn’t have to bear the brunt of the damage. By following these expert-backed tips, you can enjoy the festival without worrying about post-Holi nail woes. Whether it’s a protective layer of polish, nourishing oils, or a salon-strengthening treatment, a little care can go a long way in keeping your nails healthy and beautiful.
So, this Holi, play to your heart’s content, because now, your nails are ready to take on the colours in style!