While the monsoon can provide a welcome break from the summer heat, it also poses various challenges for your skin. Issues such as oily breakouts, itchy rashes, and fungal infections can arise if proper care is not taken during this season.

To address these common skin concerns, we consulted Dr. Ranjan Upadhyay, a senior consultant dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon at Max Hospital in Panchsheel and Saket, as well as the director of Desmoderm Skin & Laser Clinic in Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.

With two decades of experience, Dr. Ranjan offers crucial skincare advice to help you maintain healthy skin throughout the rainy season, regardless of whether your skin is oily, dry, or sensitive.

Question: Why should you modify your skincare routine during the monsoon?

Answer: It's vital to adapt your skincare regimen during the monsoon due to the combination of high humidity and temperature, which can significantly impact skin health. This can lead to increased oil production, making acne, fungal, and bacterial infections more likely.

For those with oily or acne-prone skin:

• Limit the use of face wash containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to twice daily; otherwise, rinse with plain water.


• Opt for lightweight mineral makeup.


• Choose oil-controlling moisturizers or creams with niacinamide and salicylic acid to prevent acne breakouts.


• Apply retinol-based creams at night, starting with twice a week and gradually increasing to alternate nights.


• Exfoliate your skin once a week.


• Use oil control or gel-based sunscreens with SPF 30 for daily use and SPF 50 or higher for outdoor activities.


• Stay hydrated.

If you have normal to dry skin:

Use gentle cleansers and avoid products with salicylic acid.

• Utilize light moisturizers based on water, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid, steering clear of heavy creams during the monsoon.


• For normal skin, apply light exfoliating creams weekly followed by moisturization.

Always use water-based sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher when going outdoors.

Question: What steps can you take to shield your skin from fungal infections prevalent during the monsoon?

Answer: Here are some effective strategies to prevent fungal infections:

• Shower daily, especially after outdoor activities.


• Apply antifungal powder to areas prone to infections after bathing.


• Ensure to dry the folds of your skin before applying antifungal powders.


• Use antifungal soaps, such as those containing clotrimazole or ketoconazole, if you are susceptible to fungal infections.


• Wear loose cotton clothing and avoid tight or synthetic garments.


• Maintain a nutritious diet rich in seasonal fruits and vegetables, along with adequate water intake.


• Always dry your clothes in sunlight or iron them before wearing to prevent recurrent infections.

If you experience persistent or severe infections, consult a specialist.