Skincare tips and home remedies for surviving the Mumbai monsoon

Dr. Malavika Kohli, consultant dermatologist at Jaslok Hospital and Breach Candy Hospital shares essential skincare tips and home remedies for monsoon woes

The monsoon may bring respite from the scorching heat, but it could wreak havoc on your skin. The seasonal change and humidity can lead to outbreaks, fungal infections, and many such issues. To combat monsoon woes, Mid-Day spoke to Dr. Malavika Kohli, Consultant Dermatologist at Jaslok Hospital and Breach Candy Hospital. 

Below, she answers important questions about monsoon skincare, lists practices we should avoid, and shares some effective home remedies. 

How important is it to moisturise skin and how can we keep our skin hydrated?

Hydration of the skin is extremely important both internally and externally. Hyaluronic acid serums are a good option in the day while hyaluronic acid and ceramide or peptide containing creams are a good alternative for night time.

Hydrating helps in repairing the barrier of the skin and retaining moisture which in turn helps in keeping excess oil production under control, as well as keeping bacteria at bay.

How to deal with frequent acne breakouts during monsoon?

Acne breakouts can be kept under control by using glycolic acid face washes. For sensitive skin, use lactobionic and PHA containing face washes to keep the skin squeaky clean but take care to not over dry it. 

How to avoid fungal infections?

Fungal infections can be avoided by keeping folds of the body and feet dry, as well as bathing more often, followed by using a dusting starch based anti-fungal powder for these areas. Special care must be taken to ensure that footwear and towels are kept dry.

Do we need to apply sunscreen even when conditions are overcast?

Sunscreens need to be applied during the monsoon too, even if you cannot see the sun. A broad spectrum sunscreen that protects from outdoor and indoor ultraviolet rays, infrared and blue light from devices is best. A silicone-based matte product is ideal for this humid weather.

Can humidity aggravate PCOD acne?  What precautions can be taken?

Humidity aggravates all types of acne especially in oilier skin. One may want to double cleanse make-up, sweat, dirt, and grease build up by first using micellar water followed by a gentle cleanser without rubbing the skin.

The humidity makes your skin get a film of stickiness easily that clogs the pores, so exfoliate twice a week with a gentle scrub made of orange rind, papaya, and yoghurt, with a bit of sandalwood paste.

What are some practices we should avoid?

-Essential oils should not be left on the face for more than twenty minutes.

-Avoid excessive steam inhalation or steam baths. Stick to once a week, for five to seven minutes and make sure to have a cool shower after.

-If you get a body massage, shower within twenty minutes.

-Avoid leaving hair oil overnight to prevent breakouts on the face.

DIY home remedies for monsoon skincare

-The skin can feel dull during monsoon, use a sheet mask with charcoal or a charcoal containing peel off mask.

-Cucumber juice with rose water works as a good hydrator post cleansing. It is soothing around the eyes and on irritated rosacea-prone sensitive skin.

-For dry skin, use glycerine rose water with a few drops of lemon juice. Refrigerate the mixture and apply cold post cleansing.

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