Skip or slather? 10 beauty tips to play it smart with sunscreen during monsoon rains
Don’t ditch sunscreen during rainy days. Monsoon skies may look cloudy, but UV rays can still sneak through. Here’s how to stay protected without clogging your skin.
Monsoon often tricks people into thinking they can skip sunscreen. But even on cloudy or rainy days, ultraviolet (UV) rays remain strong enough to damage your skin. Using sunscreen the wrong way can cause breakouts or irritation, especially with all the humidity. Here’s a handy guide of absolute do’s and don’ts for using sunscreen wisely during the rainy season (Images: Canva)
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Choose wisely Opt for a lightweight, gel-based or water-based sunscreen formula during the monsoon. Heavy creams tend to clog pores when mixed with sweat and humidity, leading to breakouts. Look for non-comedogenic and mattifying sunscreens that won’t leave a greasy feel but still protect against UV rays effectively.
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Reapply often Rain doesn’t wash away UV rays, but it can dilute sunscreen. Always reapply every 2 to 3 hours, especially if you've been caught in a drizzle or sweating. This ensures your skin stays protected throughout the day, regardless of the weather’s unpredictable mood swings.
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Check labels Pick sunscreens with both UVA and UVB protection, often labelled as broad-spectrum. It’s crucial to read the ingredients carefully, avoid those with alcohol or fragrances that may irritate sensitive skin during damp, humid days.
Don’t skip indoors Even if you’re indoors most of the day, sunscreen is still a must. UVA rays can penetrate through glass windows, and devices like phones or laptops also emit low-level blue light, which can contribute to skin ageing over time.
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Apply enough Many people apply too little sunscreen, making it almost ineffective. Use at least a coin-sized amount for your face and more for exposed body parts. Spread it evenly and gently massage it in without rubbing too harshly
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Time it right Apply sunscreen at least 15 to 20 minutes before stepping out. This gives the product enough time to properly absorb into your skin and start working, especially when the weather is unpredictable and you may encounter sudden sunshine
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Avoid oily ones Steer clear of oil-based sunscreens in the rainy season. The added humidity can make your skin look greasy and lead to clogged pores. Stick to matte or gel-based formulas that absorb quickly and leave a comfortable, non-sticky finish
Layer smartly If you wear makeup or moisturisers, make sure sunscreen is the last step in your skincare routine before makeup. Allow the sunscreen to set for a couple of minutes before applying other products to avoid pilling or uneven coverage
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Not just SPF Sunscreen is essential, but physical protection matters too. Use umbrellas, hats, or sunglasses alongside your SPF to shield your skin even better. These barriers block rain as well as damaging rays, giving your skin double protection during the monsoon
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Skin speaks If your skin feels unusually sensitive, irritated, or breaks out after applying sunscreen, switch to a gentler formula. Look for mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause irritation, especially during muggy, rainy weather
Namita S Kalla is a senior journalist who writes about different aspects of modern life that include lifestyle, health, fashion, beauty, and entertainment.
