Monsoon skin care tips

Shahnaz Husain *

We all love monsoons for varied reasons, don’t we?

The arrival of the monsoon ushers a wave of delight among all of us. As much as we love the monsoon, for making everything around us pleasant and snuggly, our skin feels differently about this season.

Change of season affects your skin more than you think. As the weather gets unpredictable and humidity levels rise, A summer skincare routine that works during the hot and dry months will do little to keep your skin safe from sweat, humidity, and sticky feeling.

Do you suffer from any monsoon-related skin issues such as dullness, acne, blackheads, whiteheads, itchiness, rashes, and even infections? If so, check out some easy-to-follow monsoon skin care remedies and tips on how to care for your skin during the rains.

As a starting point, switch your summer skincare routine products for monsoon-friendly ones depending on the changes you notice in your skin. While the key to an effective summer skincare routine is using heavy, extremely hydrating products, monsoon skincare demands lightweight products

1---Use a Moisturizer

While many people believe that your skin doesn’t need a moisturizer during monsoon, to keep skin hydrated from inwards, you must stick with a moisturization regimen as humidity can dehydrate the skin and make it appear dull and oily. Pick a serum and moisturizer as per your skin type. Don't go for heavy cream-based moisturizer during hot and humid weather.

Using a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer, humectant-rich moisturizer, and water-based moisturizer can hydrate the skin. Applying a good serum ensures your skin gets the right nutrition and a moisturiser locks in the benefits.

For clear skin, follow a good and regular CTM routine, twice a day even if it’s pouring outside. Invest in a good serum depending on skin type that can further benefit your skin. If you have normal, combination, or dry skin type, go for light hydrating moisturizers or face serums.

It will keep your skin hydrated and healthy without causing oiliness. People with oily skin should select a mattifying moisturizer, which helps to control excessive sebum production and provide a matte finish look. Make sure that the product is oil-free, non-comedogenic, locks in moisture and gives a glowy look.

2--Use Soap Free Cleansers ----------

Cleansing is essential during monsoons as Dust, grease, and oil accumulate excessively during the monsoon season. With cleansing, you don’t need to be harsh on your skin. While you cleanse your face, the intention is to clean not to dry out the skin,

Use soap-free cleansers that contain no fats or alkalis and mostly plant-based ingredients. It will help gently wash away the oil and dirt without leaving your skin dry. During the monsoon season, switch to a face wash without soap to remove dirt and oil without drying out your skin, regardless of your skin type. It can help remove dirt and oil keeping skin moisturised and hydrated.

Also, make sure that you do not wash your face more than 2 to 3 times a day, even if it feels oily. Sebum production can increase due to overwashing, resulting in clogged pores and breakouts.

3---Include Vitamin C in the Diet

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that keeps the skin healthy during the monsoon season. Citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits are excellent sources of vitamin C. Kiwis, bell peppers, and broccoli are also rich in this essential nutrient. Vitamin C helps in the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting off infections and boosting your body's defenses

Vitamin C serum can maintain the skin’s glow. It eliminates microorganisms, prevents the onset of age-related changes, and lessens scars and blemishes to give you clear, flawless skin

4---Exfoliating Regularly

Choose a gentle scrub to exfoliate at least 2-3 times every week to deeply cleanse the stubborn dirt deposit and remove any excess oil.

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the top, making your skin brighter and lighter. Exfoliating regularly to keep your skin glowing and soft. This will prevent clogged pores during the monsoon season and help you avoid breakouts.

It improves skin radiance and helps get rid of dead skin cells. It removes dead skin cells from the top and lets brighter and fresher skin appear. Additionally, it prevents the clogging of pores with dirt and sweat. Thus, you can also avoid blackheads.

5---Clay Mask

When your skin appears flaky, dull, uneven, or even dry or oily, clay face masks have medicinal and cosmetic properties beneficial for any skin type. Use a face mask at least twice a week to draw out impurities, absorb excess sebum, and tighten your pores in addition to following a standard skincare regimen. Selecting the right clay mask depends on your skin type.

If you have oily skin, opt for a bentonite clay mask as it excels at absorbing oil. Those with dry or sensitive skin may find kaolin clay to be gentler and more suitable. Acne-prone individuals can benefit from a turmeric clay mask, which works wonders for all skin types.

In addition, the clay mask also aids acne and balances sebum production. Regular use of clay masks will leave your skin refreshed, balanced, and less prone to breakouts.