The arrival of monsoon in India brings with it a flurry of challenges for skincare enthusiasts. The sudden surge in humidity, coupled with the occasional downpour, demands a tailored approach to skin maintenance. Whether one’s skin is oily, dry, or combination, the transition to the rainy season can upend established routines, leaving many grappling with persistent issues like clogged pores, acne, and excessive oiliness.
Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj, a Senior Dermatologist and Consultant at Saket's Max Hospital, advocates the use of Fuller's Earth, or multani mitti, as a versatile solution for various skin types. For those with oily skin, she recommends washing the face with Fuller's Earth alone, while those with combination skin can mix it with rose water. Dry skin, often exacerbated by the erratic weather, benefits from a concoction of Fuller's Earth with Sandalwood powder, combined with aloe vera gel, yogurt, or par-boiled milk. This simple, traditional remedy not only helps in maintaining skin texture but also combats the effects of increased humidity.
While the monsoon may tempt individuals to add more products to their skincare regimen, Dr. Kiran Sethi, MD and founder of Isya Aesthetics, advises a minimalist approach. She stresses the importance of reducing the number of layers applied to the skin, especially for those with oily or combination skin. During the monsoon, the skin tends to feel oilier, and the excessive use of products can exacerbate this condition. For those with dry skin, despite the humidity, maintaining hydration remains crucial, and a lightweight, watery hyaluronic acid serum can work wonders.
Mature skin requires a different approach during the monsoons. Dr. Sethi emphasizes the importance of heavy moisturization, particularly for sensitive and aging skin. Pure, clean oils such as grapeseed, almond, or coconut oil can be beneficial, provided the individual is not prone to acne. These oils help in keeping the skin taut and supple, counteracting the dehydrating effects of the weather.
Beard care, a growing concern among men, demands special attention during the monsoon season. Dr. Sethi suggests a careful shaving routine, emphasizing the need to shave in the direction of hair growth to prevent clogged pores. She also warns against the overuse of shaving creams and beard oils, which can lead to breakouts. Dr. Bhardwaj offers an alternative solution for beard maintenance, recommending face washes containing salicylic acid, niacinamide, or azelaic acid as effective beard cleansers. Alternatively, an anti-dandruff shampoo used sparingly can help maintain beard hygiene without being overly harsh.
Makeup wearers face their own set of challenges during the monsoons. The high humidity levels often cause makeup to melt, leading to clogged pores and acne. To combat this, Dr. Bhardwaj suggests incorporating niacinamide into one’s skincare routine, applying it between sunscreen and makeup for daytime protection, and following it with a gel-based moisturizer before applying makeup at night. Dr. Sethi advises simplifying the makeup routine by reducing the number of layers, opting for a single product such as a BB cream or concealer, instead of layering multiple products.
