As the monsoon season continues with its relentless rain and humidity, maintaining a skincare routine becomes increasingly challenging. Whether you enjoy the rains or find them bothersome, the increased humidity can wreak havoc on your skin. From stickiness to clogged pores, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you manage your skincare during these damp days.
Essential Monsoon Skincare Tips
One crucial tip from Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj, Senior Dermatologist and Consultant at Saket’s Max Hospital, is to adjust your face wash according to your skin type using Fuller’s Earth or multani mitti. For oily skin, she recommends using Fuller’s Earth directly. For combination skin, mix it with rose water. For dry skin, combine Fuller’s Earth with sandalwood powder and either aloe vera gel, yogurt, or par-boiled milk. Apply this mixture as a face wash, let it sit for 2 minutes, and then rinse with water without scrubbing.
Dr. Kiran Sethi, MD, founder of Isya Aesthetics, emphasizes the importance of reducing layers in your skincare routine rather than adding more products. For oily skin, minimize the number of layers applied. Even those with dry skin, who may still feel dehydrated, can benefit from a watery hyaluronic acid serum.
Skincare for Different Ages
Regardless of age, moisturizing remains vital during the monsoon. Dr. Sethi highlights that mature skin, which tends to be more sensitive, requires substantial moisturization. Pure oils like grapeseed, almond, or coconut oil can be beneficial if you are not acne-prone. For younger, sensitive skin, maintaining balanced pH levels is essential. Even if prone to breakouts, continue to use a gel-based moisturizer.
Beard Care During Monsoons
Men’s grooming, particularly beard care, requires special attention during the rainy season. Dr. Sethi advises shaving in the direction of hair growth and using minimal shaving products to avoid clogging pores. Dr. Bhardwaj suggests using a face wash with salicylic acid, niacinamide, or azelaic acid to manage beard acne. An anti-dandruff shampoo once or twice a week can also help without being too harsh.
Makeup and Monsoons
For makeup enthusiasts, the high humidity can cause makeup to melt and lead to breakouts. Niacinamide is recommended for its protective properties against monsoon acne. Dr. Bhardwaj suggests applying niacinamide between sunscreen and makeup in the morning and following it with a gel-based moisturizer in the evening. Dr. Sethi recommends simplifying your makeup routine by using fewer layers. Opt for mattifying products and consider reducing the number of items like primer, CC cream, foundation, and concealer to avoid buildup.
By adjusting your skincare routine with these tips, you can better manage the challenges posed by the monsoon and keep your skin healthy and radiant.