Monsoon Skincare Routine

Monsoons bring back nostalgia with Petrichor!

 

Be it Bangalore or Mumbai, rain brings a sense of calmness with it!

 

Well, not for your skin.

 

Monsoon skin is difficult to manage without a proper monsoon skincare routine. Your skin can lead to excess oil production, breakouts, and fungal infections because of the excessive humidity.

 

Also, the skin gets dry and irritated because of sudden change in temperature. Adjusting your skincare routine according to these seasonal changes is a must if you want healthy, glowing skin. Let’s have a look at the steps involved in the skincare routine.

Monsoon Skincare Routine Steps:

Cleansing

Cleansing is the foremost part of any skincare routine. Start your skincare routine with a gentle, soap-free cleanser designed to remove dirt, oil, and impurities. Soap-free cleansers are formulated to maintain the skin’s pH balance that helps during monsoon season as humidity can disrupt your skin's natural oils.

 

Those who have oily or combination skin can opt for double cleansing. It involves using two types of cleansers: an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based one. The oil-based cleanser works to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum, while the water-based cleanser ensures that all remaining impurities are washed away.

Exfoliation

Exfoliation is a key step in maintaining clear, smooth skin during the monsoon. The increased humidity can lead to a buildup of dead skin cells, which can clog pores and result in dull, lackluster skin.

Regular exfoliation (1-2 times a week) helps in removing dead skin cells, allowing fresh, healthy skin to surface. When choosing an exfoliant, opt for a gentle scrub that suits your skin type.For sensitive skin, a mild exfoliant with fine particles or chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) can help avoid irritation.

For oily or acne-prone skin, beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid can penetrate deeper into the pores, effectively removing excess oil and preventing breakouts. Regular exfoliation keeps your skin smooth and enhances the absorption of other skincare products, making your routine more effective.

Serum Application

Serums are a powerful component of any skincare routine, particularly during the monsoon when your skin may require more targeted care. Serums are formulated with high concentrations of active ingredients that penetrate deeply into the skin, addressing specific concerns such as dullness, uneven skin tone, and excess oil production.

During the monsoon, a Vitamin C serum can be especially beneficial. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps combat dullness, brightens the complexion, and protects the skin from environmental damage caused by pollutants and free radicals, which are prevalent during the rainy season.

For those with oily skin, a niacinamide serum is ideal as it helps regulate oil production, reduces the appearance of pores, and calms inflammation. Mayskin’s  Bounce Back Serum contains 4% niacinamide and Vitamin C, A, K with  power of 16 anti-oxidants including Green Tea.

Moisturizing

You might be wondering how moisturizer can be there? Well, let us break the myth but your skin needs moisturization even during monsoon.

For those with oily or combination skin, a lightweight, water-based moisturizer is ideal. These moisturizers provide the necessary hydration without feeling greasy or clogging pores. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and bakuchiol are excellent choices as they hydrate the skin without adding excess oil.

On the other hand, individuals with dry skin should opt for a more nourishing moisturizer. Look for products with ingredients like shea butter or squalane, which help prevent dehydration and flakiness by sealing in moisture.

Moisturizing helps maintain the skin's hydration levels, ensuring that it stays supple and resilient against the environmental challenges posed by the monsoon. Mayskin’s Daily Dew Moisturizer contains Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid and 14 botanical extracts that hydrates and nourishes your skin.

Sun Protection

Sun protection is an absolute must, regardless of the weather. Even on cloudy or rainy days, harmful UV rays can penetrate the skin, leading to damage, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day as part of your morning skincare routine. It’s important to choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type.If you have oily skin then you should opt for non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores or if you have dry skin, sunscreens with added moisturizing ingredients will be best for you.

Reapply sunscreen every two hours if you are outdoors or after exposure to water. Consistent use of sunscreen not only protects your skin from UV damage but also helps maintain an even skin tone and prevents the exacerbation of hyperpigmentation during the monsoon season.

Mayskin’s Sunny Drip Sunscreen has SPF 50 PA++++ rating(highest rating for UVA) and it is a lightweight and non-comedogenic product with a broad spectrum. The best thing? It doesn’t leaves a white cast on the skin and protects against blue light and Wi-Fi radiation too.

Skincare Tips For Getting Perfect Monsoon Skin

Minimizing Makeup

Heavy makeup can lead to clogged pores, especially in the humid monsoon weather. Instead, opt for minimal makeup, such as a light CC cream to even out your complexion, and a tinted lip balm for a natural, fresh look.

Avoid  Rain

While it may be tempting to enjoy the rain, getting drenched can lead to skin issues like fungal infections, breakouts, and irritation. Protect your skin by using waterproof skincare and avoiding prolonged exposure to rainwater.

Incorporating Antioxidants

Antioxidants like Vitamin C are vital in a monsoon skincare routine. They help protect the skin from environmental stressors and enhance the skin’s natural glow. Ingesting Vitamin C through your diet and using products that contain it can boost your immune system and support overall skin health.

Monsoon Skincare Routine for Different Skin Types

1. Normal to Dry Skin

Cleansing

Start your monsoon skincare routine with a mild, hydrating cleanser that cleanses without stripping away essential oils. Look for ingredients like glycerin or ceramides, which help retain moisture.

Serum Application

After cleansing, apply a hydrating serum rich in hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the environment into your skin, keeping it plump and hydrated even in fluctuating weather conditions. This step is crucial as it creates a moisture barrier that locks in hydration throughout the day.

Moisturizing

Follow up with a nourishing moisturizer. In the monsoon, even dry skin needs a lightweight moisturizer that hydrates without feeling heavy. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, or niacinamide can provide deep nourishment, preventing flakiness and irritation.

Sun Protection

Sunscreen is non-negotiable, even during the monsoon. UV rays can penetrate clouds and still cause skin damage. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, preferably with added moisturizing ingredients. Ensure it's a non-comedogenic formula to avoid clogging pores while keeping your skin protected.

2. Oily to Combination Skin

Cleansing

Oily and combination skin types are prone to excess sebum production, which can be worsen by the humidity of the monsoon. Start with a double cleansing method—use an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a water-based cleanser to eliminate impurities and excess oil. This helps keep pores clear and reduces the likelihood of breakouts.

Serum Application

Apply a serum with niacinamide after cleansing. Niacinamide is known for its ability to regulate oil production, minimize the appearance of pores, and soothe inflammation. It's an ideal ingredient for oily skin as it balances sebum production without drying out the skin.

Moisturizing

Even oily skin needs hydration, but the key is to use a lightweight, mattifying moisturizer. Look for oil-free or gel-based formulas that hydrate the skin without adding extra oil. Ingredients like green tea extract can provide hydration while controlling oil and preventing breakouts.

Sun Protection

Choose a non-oily, mattifying sunscreen to prevent your skin from looking shiny or greasy. A gel-based sunscreen or one with a matte finish is ideal for keeping oily skin under control while still offering essential protection from UV rays.

3. Sensitive Skin

Cleansing

Sensitive skin requires extra care during the monsoon to avoid irritation and flare-ups. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser that won’t strip the skin or cause inflammation. Cleansers with soothing ingredients like chamomile, oat extract, or aloe vera are ideal as they cleanse while calming the skin.

Serum Application

After cleansing, apply a serum with calming and soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, or centella asiatica. These ingredients help reduce redness, soothe irritation, and strengthen the skin’s barrier, making it more resilient to environmental stressors.

Moisturizing

Opt for a simple, hypoallergenic moisturizer that hydrates without causing irritation. Look for products free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and alcohol. Ingredients like squalane, shea butter, or hyaluronic acid can provide gentle hydration while maintaining the skin's natural barrier.

Patch Testing

Sensitive skin is prone to reactions, so it's crucial to patch-test any new products before full application. Apply a small amount of the product on a discreet area of your skin, such as behind the ear or on the inner arm, and wait 24-48 hours to ensure there is no adverse reaction.

Sun Protection

Sensitive skin should be protected with a mineral-based sunscreen, which is less likely to cause irritation than chemical sunscreens. Look for formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which provide broad-spectrum protection without aggravating the skin.

By tailoring your skincare routine to your specific skin type, you can effectively address the unique challenges posed by the monsoon season, ensuring your skin remains healthy, hydrated, and radiant.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Monsoon Skincare

Over-cleansing

Washing your face too frequently can strip your skin of natural oils, leading to increased oil production and breakouts. Stick to cleansing twice a day.

Skipping Moisturizer or Sunscreen

Humidity may make your skin feel oily, but skipping moisturizer can lead to dehydration. Similarly, skipping sunscreen can leave your skin vulnerable to UV damage.

Using Heavy Makeup

Avoid heavy foundation and opt for lighter, breathable options to prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

Monsoon Skincare: Is your skin ready for the rain?

Adapting your skincare routine to the monsoon season is essential for maintaining healthy, radiant skin. By incorporating the right products and steps, you can protect your skin from the challenges of humidity, rain, and fluctuating temperatures.

FAQs

• Can I Skip Sunscreen During Monsoons?
  • No, UV rays can still damage your skin even on cloudy days, so applying sunscreen is a must.
• How Often Should I Exfoliate?
  • Exfoliating 1-2 times a week is sufficient to keep your skin smooth and prevent breakouts without over-stripping the skin.