Festive Hair Care for Diwali Parties: Shine Without the Damage

Diwali means lots of photos, relatives and long days. Your hair will be on display too. You do not need salon heat or harsh products to look good. Here is a plan that works with your hair instead of against it.

Two days before: oil and wash

Warm a little hair oil, such as our Amla & Bhringraj Hair Oil, and massage it into the scalp gently for five minutes. Leave it for 30 minutes to a few hours, then wash it out well with a mild shampoo. Our guide on how to apply hair oil has the full method.

Wash with care

Use lukewarm water. Hot water strips the scalp and makes hair frizzy. A shampoo such as Amla, Reetha & Shikakai cleans without a heavy feel. Rinse for longer than you think you need to.

Finish: a little serum, not a lot

On damp hair, rub two or three drops of Rosemary Hair Serum between your palms and smooth it through the lengths, away from the roots. This helps with frizz and gives a soft shine. Too much will weigh hair down, so start small.

Styling without damage

• Let hair air-dry as much as you can before using a dryer.
• Use a heat protectant if you do straighten or curl.
• Choose braids, a low bun or soft waves. They look festive and cause little stress.
• Avoid tight ponytails for long hours.

Smoke and dust

Diwali air can leave hair dull and smelly. Tie your hair back outdoors, and plan a wash a day or two after the festival. We cover recovery in our after-Diwali recovery guide.

Browse more in our hair oils and shampoos.

Frequently asked questions

How long before a party should I oil my hair?

Oil two days before so there is time to wash it out and let the scalp settle. Oiling on the day of the party usually leaves hair looking limp.

Can I use serum on freshly washed hair every day?

Yes, in small amounts on the ends. Two or three drops are enough. If hair looks greasy, use less next time.

What is the best low-heat hairstyle for Diwali?

Loose waves from a braid overnight, a soft bun or a half-up style look festive and need little or no heat.

Quick takeaway

For festive hair, a clean scalp, a little serum on the ends and low-heat styling will do more than any salon trick.

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.