Monsoon skincare mistakes: Say no to harsh chemicals and hot showers, don't pick pimples

Skincare tips: Washing your face twice a day, once in the morning and once before bedtime is crucial. This prevents the accumulation of sweat, dirt, and bacteria that can contribute to breakouts (Image: Canva)

During the monsoon, skin problems pour in. Despite all your best efforts, this is the time when many challenges like oily skin or sudden acne breakouts keep pouring. Or, sometimes the makeup you applied so meticulously, is washed way when you step outdoors. These issues are common in the rainy season, calling for specialised care to combat the humid, moisture-heavy environment.

Some skin issues worsen with increased humidity and environmental factors. Common symptoms include excessive oiliness, acne breakouts, fungal infections like ringworm, and worsened conditions like eczema due to moisture retention. Increased humidity and dampness in the air can wreak havoc on your skin, says Megha, Makeup artist from Karnal. "Neglecting your monsoon skincare routine can lead to issues like acne breakouts, skin rashes, and fungal infections. It's vital to take extra care of your skin during the monsoon and avoid common skincare mistakes that can aggravate these problems

Follow these tips, suggested by Megha, that will help you maintain healthy skin during this season:

Cleanse with care: Humidity can make your skin produce excess oil, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. To combat this, opt for a gentle cleanser that removes dirt, pollutants, and excess oil without stripping away your skin's natural moisture

Consistent care: Washing your face twice a day, once in the morning and once before bedtime is crucial. This prevents the accumulation of sweat, dirt, and bacteria that can contribute to breakouts.

Use natural ingredients: Natural ingredients like seaweed extracts in your face wash help maintain the skin's pH balance and ensure it stays nourished despite the changing weather.

Say no to harsh cleansers: Avoid harsh, drying cleansers that can strip your skin's moisture barrier. The goal is to cleanse without disrupting the skin's natural balance.

Avoid overusing makeup: Monsoon season often has varied levels of humidity and heat. This can aggravate sebum production in the skin and clog your pores. During the monsoon season, it is best to avoid heavy makeup as it can further clog your pores and cause breakouts

Don’t forget to moisturise: Many assume moisturising isn't needed during the humid monsoon season, but this is a misconception. Humidity can strip your skin of moisture, making it dry and itchy. Always use moisturisers suited to your skin type. If your skin gets excessively oily during monsoons, opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic products.

Hydrate yourself: Regardless of the season, drinking enough water is important for healthy skin. The increased humidity can cause excessive sweating, leading to dehydration.

No hot showers: While it may feel relaxing and soothing to take a hot shower after a long day, it is advisable to refrain from doing so. Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, resulting in dry and itchy skin.

Do not neglect your feet: Monsoon season can be really tough on your feet. Your feet will come in contact with dirty water, potholes and mud on the streets. This can cause fungal infections on your skin, especially on your feet.

Picking pimples: The temptation to pop a pimple is strong, but doing so can worsen inflammation, lead to infection, and cause scarring. Hands off!

Avoid touching your face: Monsoon fosters bacteria and viruses. Your hands encounter many germs daily, so avoid touching your face to prevent bacteria spread and acne breakouts. Humidity levels vary, causing skin to become extremely dry or oily.