Monsoon skincare tips: Here's how to clear your skin this rainy season with a fuss-free, oil-control skincare routine

Monsoon is almost here. It’s that time of the year again when those with oily and acne-prone skin, fear the beginning of a skincare nightmare. The humid weather, mixed with environmental pollutants, can wreak havoc, causing breakouts, clogged pores, and flare-ups.

Most people don’t realise they need to tweak their skincare routine seasonally, tells Dr Mikki Singh, founder and head dermatologist at Bodycraft Clinics and Salon. “Ignoring this change leads to skin issues that could’ve been prevented,” he adds.

During monsoon, your skin tends to get confused. “The humidity makes it sweat more, while the temperature shifts can dry it out, leading to overproduction of oil. This results in clogged pores, acne, and a shiny, greasy feel. One of the most common reasons patients report a spike in breakouts during the rains is because they continue using their winter or summer skincare products without adjusting for humidity,” Dr Singh says.

Also read | Is monsoon messing with your skin and mood? Here’s how to stay balanced 

He suggests ways to build a monsoon-safe skincare routine for oily or acne-prone skin:

• Cleanse gently, twice a day only: Choose a gel-based, sulphate-free cleanser with ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, or tea tree oil. Don’t over-wash, doing so can strip the skin of its natural oils and worsen greasiness.

• Hydrate with a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser: Use a gel-based or water-based moisturiser containing hyaluronic acid or panthenol. “Oily skin still needs hydration,” says Dr Singh. “Skipping moisturiser makes skin produce even more oil,” Dr Singh says.

• Use sunscreen daily, even on grey days: Monsoon clouds don’t block UV rays. Apply a matte-finish, non-comedogenic SPF 30+ formula. Zinc oxide and niacinamide are good ingredients to look out for.

• Be careful with exfoliants and retinoids: Actives like AHAs, BHAs and retinol help with acne but should be used sparingly in damp weather. Stick to once or twice a week. Dr Singh recommends in-clinic peels for safer results.

• Treat breakouts with targeted spot solutions: Keep a benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid-based spot treatment handy. Dab it only on the affected area to reduce inflammation quickly.

• Clean what touches your face: Wash pillowcases, clean makeup brushes, and sanitise phone screens often. “You’d be shocked at how much bacteria live on those surfaces,” cautions Dr Singh.

• Eat clean and stay hydrated: Reduce sugar, fried food, and dairy. Drink enough water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Good skin begins from within.