The monsoon season may be a welcome break from scorching summers, but with the rain comes a familiar set of skincare struggles like unpredictable breakouts, greasy T-zones, and skin that just won’t go away. For many young men and women, the spike in humidity wreaks havoc on the skin’s natural oil balance, often leading to clogged pores, excess sebum, and the dreaded acne flare-up.
Navigating these muggy months doesn’t require a shelf full of products. In fact, as beauty expert and founder of Foxtale, Romita Mazumdar, points out, simplicity can often be your skin’s best friend. She says, “Personally, I have combination skin, so I’m quite mindful of keeping my routine minimal yet effective this time of year. I always recommend switching to lightweight, non-comedogenic products. A gentle, clarifying cleanser that clears out sweat and grime without stripping the skin is key. I follow that with an oil-balancing moisturizer that hydrates without feeling heavy. And, one thing I’ve learned is that skipping moisturizer or over-cleansing can actually make things worse by pushing your skin to produce more oil. It’s really about listening to what your skin needs and staying consistent with the basics.”
Also read | Reduce dark spots, pigmentation: 6 tips to keep melasma under control this monsoon season
Go for the right formula
Skincare for the rainy season is less about piling on layers of products and more about finding the right formulas that support your skin's changing needs as the weather gets humid. The focus should be on reducing congestion, managing oil, and reinforcing the skin barrier.
Mazumdar emphasises the importance of choosing your ingredients wisely. For choosing the right product, she explains, “Look for ingredients like salicylic acid, which deeply exfoliates and keeps pores clear; niacinamide, which regulates sebum and strengthens the skin barrier; and cica for its calming, anti-inflammatory properties. Lightweight hydrators like hyaluronic acid are also great for maintaining balance without heaviness.”
Also read | Monsoon skincare routine: 10 DIY face masks that will bring the glow back on your face
Keep it light:
These ingredients are more than just trending buzzwords; they’re your skin’s frontline defense against humidity-induced havoc. Salicylic acid, for example, is particularly useful for acne-prone or oily skin types, thanks to its ability to get deep into pores and unclog them. Niacinamide not only tones down excess oil but also improves texture and minimizes pores, making it an all-around MVP in a monsoon routine.
And if you think cloudy skies mean you can skip sunscreen, think again. “No matter the weather, sunscreen remains non-negotiable — even on cloudy days. UV rays penetrate through clouds and can still cause long-term skin damage, so protecting your skin year-round is key to maintaining its health and radiance,” says Mazumdar.
With a little seasonal tweak and the right tools in your vanity, clear and balanced skin is possible, even in the most unpredictable weather.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!