THE MONSOON RESET: SKINCARE PLAYBOOK FOR RAINY DAYS

As the skies turn grey and the air grows heavy with humidity, your skin and hair undergo silent changes that shouldn’t be ignored. While the monsoon may feel like a welcome break from the scorching heat, it brings with it a unique set of challenges — from breakouts and frizzy hair to fungal infections and dull skin

 

The Monsoon–Skin Equation

“Every skin is different,” says Dr Shuba Dharmana, Hair Transplant Surgeon and Chief Evangelist, Le'Jeune Medspa. “It’s important to first identify whether you have oily, acne-prone, combination or dry skin — because a customised routine during the monsoon becomes absolutely essential.”

Dr Shuba Dharmana

Humidity creates a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Those with oily or combination skin may find themselves dealing with more frequent breakouts or clogged pores. “People often make the mistake of sticking to the same skincare they use all year round. But what your skin needs in summer or winter is very different from what it needs when it’s damp and muggy outside,” she explains. “Ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil in your cleanser can help control oil production and acne.”

“If you have oily skin, switch to lightweight, water-based moisturisers like serums or lotions. Cleansing two to three times a day is ideal to wash away accumulated grime,” suggests Dr Shuba.

For dry skin, the humidity may actually dehydrate your skin further. “Use creamy, nourishing moisturisers — but keep them lighter than your winter creams,” she says. And while it’s tempting to over-cleanse, washing more than twice a day can strip essential oils, making dryness worse.

For combination skin, “Stick to water-based lotions and serums. Wash twice daily, and don’t skip your moisturiser, even if some parts of your face feel oily.”

No matter the skin type, Dr Shuba recommends, “Exfoliate once or twice a week to slough off dead skin and improve cell turnover. You can opt for gentle store-bought exfoliators or natural ingredients like coffee, walnut, or orange-peel scrubs. Removing dirt and debris that settles on the skin due to moisture is key.”

Cleanse, Tone, Protect

Keeping your pores clean is half the battle won during the monsoon. “Your skin is constantly exposed to moisture, grime, and pollution. Cleansing regularly is essential to avoid bacterial build-up,” says Dr Shuba. “Use natural cleansers — rose water, lemon, aloe vera, or even diluted apple cider vinegar. They’re gentle on the skin and help maintain balance without stripping natural oils.”

Toning becomes even more important in this season. “Open pores trap more dirt and bacteria. Using a toner suited to your skin type — store-bought or natural like green tea, cucumber, or lemon juice — helps tighten the skin and maintain balance.”

And yes, sunscreen is non-negotiable — even when it’s raining. “Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or above. People often think they don’t need SPF because the sun is hidden. But UV rays are very much active through the clouds,” she cautions.

Monsoon Hair Woes

When it comes to hair, the monsoon throws up a messy mix of frizz, dryness, and exposure to pollutants in rainwater.

Dr Shuba recommends simple but effective steps to counter these:

• Protect your hair from polluted rainwater with a raincoat, scarf, hat, or umbrella.

• If you do get drenched, wash your hair immediately to prevent scalp infections.

• Massage your scalp once or twice a week using warm coconut or olive oil, and leave it on for 15–40 minutes before washing. It helps moisturise the scalp and improve blood circulation.

• Use an SLS-free shampoo for regular washes, and add a clarifying shampoo once every two weeks to remove build-up.

• Always condition your hair post-shampoo. For fine hair, condition only the mid-lengths to avoid flattening the roots.

• Never comb wet hair with a regular brush. Use a wide-toothed comb to prevent breakage.

• At home, try leave-in conditioners or argan oil overnight to maintain shine and softness.

• And if you're heat-styling, ensure hair is completely dry and always use a heat protectant spray.

Monsoon Foot Care

Often overlooked, your feet are especially vulnerable in this weather. “Monsoons can lead to damp, smelly feet that invite fungal infections,” asserts Dr Shuba.

Here’s how to keep feet clean, healthy, and happy:

• Keep feet dry at all times. Dab them dry post-shower and apply a light moisturiser.

• Clean between the toes — a common spot for fungal build-up.

• Use antifungal dusting powders if your feet sweat excessively.

• Avoid closed shoes or heels. Instead, opt for open footwear like sandals that dry easily.

• Keep toenails clipped short, and avoid nail polish if you’re dealing with nail disorders or infections.

• A weekly exfoliation or pedicure helps remove dead skin and maintain hygiene.

• If you’re prone to rashes, avoid fragranced foot creams and consult a dermatologist for medicated options.