After Diwali: A Simple Skin and Hair Recovery Routine

The lights are put away and the guests have gone home. Your skin and hair probably feel it. Smoke, dust, rich food, little sleep and layers of makeup all add up. A week of gentle care is all you need.

For your skin

• Double cleanse at night. Remove makeup first with a gentle oil or cleanser, then wash with a mild face wash.
• Skip strong actives for a few days. Let the skin recover before using anything harsh.
• Moisturise well. Cold weather and pollution both dry the skin.
• One mask this week. A soothing pack of the kind in our face pack guide is enough.

For your hair

Smoke and dust cling to the scalp. Wash your hair in the next day or two with a gentle cleanser. A traditional blend such as Amla, Reetha & Shikakai Shampoo is a good fit. Follow with a light oil massage on the weekend if your hair feels dry.

Eat and drink lightly

After days of sweets and fried food, go back to simple home meals, fruit and plenty of water. Warm water with lemon or herbal tea are easy habits. This is general wellness advice, not a cure for anything.

Sleep

Skin and hair look better with enough sleep. Try to return to your regular bedtime within a few days.

A relaxing finish

If your back and feet are sore after the festival chores, an evening bath with Epsom Salt is a comforting ritual. Learn how in our Epsom salt bath guide.

Browse our skin care and hair care for everyday basics.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a special detox product after Diwali?

No. A mild cleanser, moisturiser, water and sleep are enough. The word detox on a label does not mean skin needs a special product.

How soon can I colour or style my hair again?

If your scalp feels irritated, give it a week. Otherwise return to your normal routine, with gentle care first.

What helps hair that smells of smoke?

A wash with a mild shampoo, a good rinse, and airing the hair in fresh air. Do not apply more oil on top of smoke and dust.

Quick takeaway

Recovery is mostly basics: cleanse well, drink water, eat simply, sleep, and give skin a week without anything harsh.

This article is general information about traditional Ayurvedic hair, skin and bath care. It is not medical advice. If you have sudden or patchy hair loss, a sore, itchy or flaky scalp, or skin that is painful, swollen or not improving, please see a doctor or dermatologist. Always patch-test a new product first.