We all love the arrival of monsoon — relief from the heat, the smell of wet earth, and the sound of rain. But for skin, monsoon is a tricky season. Humidity rises, sweat and sebum production increases, the risk of fungal infections grows, and dirt and pollution mix in too. If you are still following your summer routine, it will not work in monsoon.
Why Skin Changes in Monsoon
Because of humidity, skin begins to absorb moisture from the air — which might sound good. But this same humidity creates a layer of sweat, sebum, and dirt on the skin that clogs pores. Result: acne, blackheads, dull skin, and fungal issues. For girls with oily skin, this season is especially challenging.
For girls with dry skin, monsoon can actually be relieving — humidity gives the skin natural hydration. But fungal infections and sweat-related issues can affect everyone. Adjusting your routine according to the season is essential.
Cleanser — The Most Important Monsoon Step
Double cleansing is essential in monsoon — especially if you use makeup or spend time outdoors during the day. First remove makeup and sunscreen with an oil-based cleanser, then deep cleanse with a gentle foaming or gel cleanser. Do not cleanse more than 2 times a day — over-cleansing will dry out the skin and increase sebum further.
If you get drenched in muddy rain, wash your face quickly. Rainwater contains pollutants that settle on the skin and cause damage. Neem-based or tea tree cleanser is especially helpful in monsoon — antibacterial properties prevent fungal and bacterial infections.
Moisturiser — Time to Switch
If you were using thick cream in winter, now put it on the shelf. In monsoon, use a lightweight, water-based moisturiser. Gel-based moisturisers are ideal for monsoon — they hydrate without being greasy. Aloe vera gel is naturally monsoon-friendly — cooling, hydrating, antibacterial.
Deepa Rao, Dermatologist, Mumbai"In Mumbai, monsoon means 90% humidity. The most common complaint among my patients in this season is acne, fungal rashes, and oily skin. But mostly this is fixed with routine."
Sunscreen — Do Not Skip It
There are clouds so sunscreen is not needed — this is the biggest mistake. 80% of UV rays pass through clouds too. Apply SPF 30+ even in monsoon. Choose a lightweight fluid or gel sunscreen — heavy sunscreens will clog pores even more in monsoon. Choose a water-resistant formula.
Toner — For pH Balance
Skin's pH gets imbalanced in monsoon — due to sweating and humidity. Toner balances the pH and tightens pores. Choose an alcohol-free toner — alcohol is drying. Witch hazel, niacinamide, or AHA-based toners are excellent for monsoon.
Body Care — The Forgotten Area
Body skin also demands attention in monsoon. Back acne, inner thigh rashes, and underarm issues are common from sweating. Add tea tree or neem oil to your body wash. Wear cotton or linen fabric — synthetic fabrics trap sweat. Keep the body dry especially in folds — moisture there causes fungal growth.
Feet deserve extra care in monsoon. Fungal infections like athlete's foot come from wet feet. Dry feet thoroughly as soon as you get home, especially between toes. Do a weekly foot scrub with lemon + salt and apply neem oil.
Makeup — Less Is More in Monsoon
Heavy foundation does not set in humidity and settles into creases. In monsoon, choose BB cream or tinted moisturiser. Avoid powder products — they cake in humidity. Use waterproof kajal and mascara. Lock makeup with a setting spray.
And most importantly — avoid matte lipstick if you are going to be outdoors all day. In humid weather it becomes dry and flaky. Lip oil or a glossy formula is better. Glam looks are actually possible in monsoon — you just need to adjust your products and application technique.
