During Holi, buyers face one common doubt.
Which gulal should I choose?
Should I buy herbal gulal?
Or should I buy normal starch-based gulal?
This confusion returns every year.
Many people believe herbal gulal is always safe.
Additionally, they think that regular gulal always damages the skin.
This idea is not correct.
The terms “herbal” and “normal” are not the sole factors that determine safety.
Safety depends on ingredients, quality control, and production methods.
This blog explains the real difference between herbal gulal and starch-based gulal.
It assists customers in selecting the ideal item for a joyful and safe Holi.
You can also read our skin safety guide before continuing:
👉 Which Gulal Is Safe for Skin? A Complete Buyer Guide
This blog explains colour safety in detail.
It helps buyers understand what truly matters.
What Is Herbal Gulal?
Herbal gulal comes from natural sources.
Manufacturers use plant extracts, flowers, herbs, and natural bases.
Herbal gulal gives soft and light shades.
It feels gentle on the skin.
It works well for children and sensitive skin users.
Schools and societies often prefer herbal colours.
Parents also choose it for kids.
But not every product labelled “herbal” is genuine.
Some brands use the word only for promotion.
Buyers must always check:
- Ingredients
- Brand details
- Packaging quality
What Is Starch-Based (Normal) Gulal?
In India, starch-based gulal is the most popular type.
People also call it normal gulal.
Manufacturers use food-grade starch as the base.
They add approved colour pigments.
They manage softness and wash quality.
Good starch gulal feels smooth.
It spreads easily.
It washes off without harsh rubbing.
This type works well for:
- Public celebrations
- Events
- Retail sales
- Bulk supply
- Gifting
Low-quality starch gulal causes skin issues.
High-quality starch gulal stays skin-friendly.
Herbal Gulal vs Normal Gulal: Clear Comparison
Here is a simple comparison.
Ingredients
Herbal gulal uses natural materials.
Starch gulal uses food-grade starch and pigments.
Both stay safe when made properly.
Texture
Herbal gulal feels soft.
Good starch gulal also feels soft.
Rough texture shows poor quality.
Colour
Herbal gulal gives light shades.
Starch gulal gives bright shades.
Bright colour does not mean harmful.
Cost
Herbal gulal costs more.
Starch gulal costs less.
Raw material decides the price.
Supply
Herbal gulal has limited availability.
Starch gulal is easily available.
Bulk buyers prefer starch gulal.
Which Gulal Is Safer for Skin?
This question confuses most buyers.
Herbal gulal suits very sensitive skin.
But it is not the only safe option.
High-quality starch gulal is also safe.
It must use:
- Food-grade starch
- Approved pigments
- Controlled production
- Quality testing
Unsafe gulal comes from poor manufacturing.
It is not solely dependent on regular or herbal types.
This is why buyer knowledge matters.
False Beliefs About Gulal
Many wrong ideas exist.
“Herbal gulal never causes an allergy.”
This is false.
Natural products can still cause reactions.
“Normal gulal always damages skin.”
This is also false.
Good starch gulal stays gentle.
“Bright colours mean chemicals.”
This is not always true.
Quality matters more than shade.
Smart buyers check quality, not labels.
How Buyers Should Select Gulal
Buyers should follow simple rules:
- Read the ingredient list.
- Touch the texture.
- Smell the fragrance.
- Check washability.
- Buy only packaged products.
Avoid loose colours.
Avoid very cheap gulal.
Ask for test reports if needed.
For full safety steps, read:
👉 Which Gulal Is Safe for Skin? A Complete Buyer Guide
ShaktiRang’s Approach to Quality
ShaktiRang understands buyer confusion.
We prioritise product safety and trust because of this.
We produce:
- Herbal gulal
- Premium starch-based gulal
We use controlled production systems.
We use skin-friendly bases.
We ensure soft texture.
We ensure easy washability.
Our products serve:
- Families
- Schools
- Housing societies
- Events
- Corporate gifting
- Retail markets
People trust ShaktiRang because we value quality over marketing words.
We believe in standards, not labels.
We believe in safety, not shortcuts.
Which Gulal Should You Choose?
Choose herbal gulal if:
- You have very sensitive skin
- You buy for children
- You prefer soft shades
Choose starch-based gulal if:
- You want bright colours
- You need a bulk supply
- You manage events
- You run retail sales
In both cases, choose trusted manufacturers.
Final Words
Clarity is needed regarding the difference between herbal and regular gulal.
Both types can stay safe.
Both types can become harmful if poorly made.
Buyers should focus on:
- Ingredients
- Texture
- Wash quality
- Brand trust
Not on labels alone.
Holi remains happy and stress-free when you make good decisions.
Good gulal protects skin and memories.
Celebrate Holi with confidence.
Choose quality.
Choose safety.
Choose trusted brands like ShaktiRang. 🌸🌈
Reference:
https://www.news18.com/lifestyle/holi-2025