Monsoon Skin Care: Monsoon-proof your skin: Dermatologist’s 5-step routine for the rainy season |

During the monsoon, high humidity can trigger skin issues like acne and infections. A dermatologist recommends a 5-step routine: gentle cleansing, lightweight hydration, keeping skin folds dry, using matte sunscreen daily, and eating skin-friendly foods. Adapting skincare habits to the monsoon season helps maintain clear, calm, and balanced skin.

The monsoon brings cooler air and soothing showers — but also sticky skin, surprise breakouts, and flare-ups you didn’t sign up for.As a dermatologist, I see a pattern every year: patients come in with increased acne, oily patches, dullness, and even fungal infections. The culprit? High humidity paired with the wrong skincare habits.But here’s the upside — with a few simple shifts, your skin can stay clear, calm, and balanced all season long.Let’s dive into a 5-step monsoon skin care routine that actually works:

1. Cleanse Smarter — Not Harsher

Humidity leads to sweat, sebum, and grime building up faster — but don’t over-cleanse or strip your skin.Pro Tip:Use a gentle gel or foam-based face wash with ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide. These help control oil and breakouts without disrupting your skin barrier.

2. Hydrate Intelligently — Go Lightweight

Heavy creams can clog pores during the monsoon. Choose hydration that breathes.Pro Tip:Opt for an oil-free moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or panthenol. These keep skin plump and dewy, minus the greasiness.

3. Keep Dampness at Bay

Trapped moisture is a breeding ground for fungal infections, especially in skin folds.Pro Tip:Keep areas like the armpits, groin, neck folds, and feet dry. Use a clean towel post-shower and consider an antifungal powder if you’re prone to itching or rashes.

4. Don’t Skip Sunscreen — Even on Cloudy Days

Just because you can’t see the sun doesn’t mean it isn’t there. UV damage and pollution are year-round threats.Pro Tip:Choose a matte, water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Gel-based or dry-touch formulas are ideal for humid conditions.

5. Eat for Glow — Not Just Cravings

Your gut reflects on your skin. Monsoon cravings often lead to oily, processed snacks — a major acne trigger.Pro Tip:Focus on skin-loving foods rich in zinc, omega-3s, vitamin C, and probiotics.Some monsoon-friendly picks include:Soaked almonds, walnuts, flaxseedsLeafy greens like spinach and methiBananas, berries, sweet potatoesCurd, buttermilk, and fermented foods

Your skin responds to both the weather and your habits. The goal during monsoon? Stay consistent, go gentle, and don’t overload your routine. Catch the early signs of imbalance and act quickly.This season, let your skincare be as calm and clear as the air after the rain.By Dr. Aparajita Lamba, Founder & Chief Dermatologist, Iksana Wellness