Being in a place or in that part of the year where the weather is humid would call for special skincare. Our skin takes time to adapt to changes in weather, constant dampness in the air, and sudden temperature fluctuations. Not paying attention to the monsoon skincare needs would make us end up with acne breakouts, sticky/greasy skin, dullness, and sometimes even dry skin, quoted a leading skin doctor in Bangalore.
If you have dry skin despite high humid weather, this read is just for your help to restore lasting skin hydration this monsoon and the next ones to come.
Why does Skin Become Dry in the Monsoon Season?
There are many contributing factors to dry skin despite the presence of moist air. These include:
- Fluctuating temperatures- In the monsoon, the temperature is highly humid and even fluctuates. Some days are hot and humid, while other days are rainy. This causes the skin to lose its natural moisture and become sensitive. Sometimes, rashes also develop.
- Increased perspiration- Hot and humid weather causes a lot of sweating. This leads to a dehydrated body and skin, which causes or exacerbates skin dryness.
- Unsettled natural oil balance- In high humidity, the skin is unable to maintain its natural oil balance. If skin is oily, it gets oilier, and if dry, it gets drier.
- Dehydration- Less thirst and a lot of sweating in humid weather, together, can cause dehydration, leaving the skin dry.
- Prolonged staying in an air-conditioned environment- To get relief from hot and humid weather, many people stay in an air-conditioned room. Unknowingly, they are making their skin prone to dryness.
5 Key Expert Tips on Combating Dry Skin in Monsoon
- Be gentle with skincare
Daily cleanse skin, morning and night, with a soap-free, mild cleanser that doesn't strip skin of its natural moisture. The cleanser must work only in removing skin impurities, excess oil, and sweat that accumulates on the skin and may clog the pores. It must be chosen according to skin type.
The exfoliant could be mechanical (a gentle scrub with fine granules) or a chemical exfoliant (such as alpha or beta hydroxy acid). The choice of a skincare product must be made after consulting with a skincare expert.
- Keep body and skin hydrated
There is less thirst in the monsoon season. But still, drinking adequate water all day long is necessary to keep skin hydrated from the inside out. One must fulfil the daily recommended intake of water. Those who spend a long time in an air-conditioned environment are advised to keep a humidifier and use it to counteract the drying effects of the air.
- Do not ditch moisturiser
Immediately after cleansing the skin, it’s crucial to lock moisture into the skin. For that, it is advised to apply a rich, creamy moisturiser containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerine.
Cer-amide is a waxy lipid that is naturally present in the skin to help maintain its natural hydration and barrier function.
Hyaluronic acid is a water-attracting substance and can help skin retain its moisture to make it look plump, youthful, and radiant. Glycerine is a humectant and can help keep the skin surface refreshed.
- Sun protection is a must
Be it rainy or cloudy outdoors, the UV rays from the sun can still penetrate the skin to damage it. Overexposure to sunlight can cause increased production of melanin in directly exposed areas of the skin.
To avoid the skin darkening and dryness associated with UV exposure, dermatologists advise wearing broad-spectrum, moisturising but non-comedogenic, water-proof sunscreen of SPF 50 plus. Besides, they ask for wearing sun-protective clothing and seeking shade to avoid damaging their skin.
- Steer clear of skin-irritating or harsh products
In the rainy season and even otherwise, one must refrain from the use of alcohol-based toners, hot showers/baths, and anything that is irritating to the skin and may worsen the dry skin condition.
FAQs on Dry Skin and Monsoon
How many times do I need to moisturize during the monsoon?
Moisturize at least twice daily to lock hydration into the skin and avoid seasonal dryness.
Which activities efficiently address the dryness of skin induced by the monsoons?
Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides play a crucial role in skin hydration.
Is it possible for dry skin to worsen eczema during the humid monsoon weather?
Yes, the experience of imbalance in moisture can account for the trigger of eczema in the monsoon period.
Should I avoid hot showers during the monsoon season?
Indeed, hot water washes away natural oil and then aggravates skin dryness.
Is the use of sunscreen essential for dry skin during the monsoon?
UV rays reach even through the clouds and attack the skin barrier.
Can changes in diet reduce dryness due to the monsoon?
Yes, the consumption of food rich in omega-3s helps hydrate the skin.
Is heavy cream preferable to lotions for monsoon dryness?
Heavy creams would be much more effective than those light lotions as they provide stronger moisture lock.
How to soothe dry skin or prevent its recurrence in the rainy season?
It is simple! Just focus on the dermatologist-recommended, monsoon skincare routine.
Is moisturiser required for normal, oily, or combination skin types in rainy weather?
Skipping moisturiser is never recommended. One without dry skin must daily apply a lightweight, gel-based, grease-free moisturiser to keep skin hydration/moisture in balance and pores clear.
Who is the best dermatologist to consult for dry skin?
Dr. Rasya Dixit is a top-rated skin doctor in Bangalore, who can heal dry skin and even address other skin concerns through unparalleled, personalised, and best skin care services.
Book an appointment with her to give your skin the best care, including dry skin treatments and expert tips.
