High humidity, sudden rains and constant sweating can make monsoon tough on both skin and hair. in this week HT Health Talk – Hindustan Times Weekly Medical Advice Series – Dr Shirin Furtado, Senior Consultant, Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology at Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, busts common myths of the rainy season and answers your most pressing questions. Read this also HT Health Talk: You asked, our experts answered how to manage migraines
Skipping sunscreen because the sky is gray? Dr. Furtado called it a big mistake. Keep washing your face non-stop when humidity increases? Also, no, he warned.
From telling the difference between regular breakouts and monsoon fungal infections, to what to do when you get caught in heavy rain – here’s Dr Furtado’s expert advice:
1. Does washing face several times a day to avoid monsoon grease harm the skin?
washing face frequently Can damage the skin’s natural protective barrier. During monsoon, humidity can make skin feel oily and sticky, but excessive cleansing can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, redness and even increased oil production as the skin tries to compensate. Most people should wash their face twice a day using a mild, pH-balanced cleanser. If the face becomes sweaty after outdoor activities or exercise, extra gentle cleansing is acceptable. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubs more than once a day. Instead, use blotting paper or gently pat away excess oil. Cleansing with a mild, non-comedogenic moisturizer helps keep skin healthy without feeling greasy.
2. How can one tell the difference between regular acne and rainy season fungal acne?
regular acne and fungal acne May look similar, but they have important differences. Regular acne usually includes blackheads, whiteheads, painful pimples, and cysts of various sizes. Fungal acne, also called Malassezia folliculitis, appears as numerous small, uniform, itchy bumps primarily on the forehead, chest, shoulders, and back. It often worsens during hot, humid weather because sweat and moisture promote the growth of yeast on the skin. Unlike regular acne, fungal acne usually does not respond to standard acne creams and may even get worse with oily products. Persistent itching and similar looking bumps are common signs. A dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and prescribe appropriate antifungal creams, shampoos, or oral medications if necessary.
3. Which heavy skin care ingredients should be replaced with light serums in humid weather?
During humid weather, thick creams and heavy oil-based products may feel uncomfortable and cause clogged pores in people with oily or acne-prone skin. It is often better to apply a rich moisturizer instead mild gel-based or water-based products. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, panthenol, and glycerin provide hydration without leaving greasiness. Very heavy occlusive products, such as petrolatum-based ointments or thick facial oils, may not be suitable for daytime use during monsoon, unless advised for very dry skin. People with oily skin should also choose non-comedogenic formulations. However, individuals with eczema or a damaged skin barrier may still need rich moisturizers. Skin care should always be selected based on skin type rather than just the season.
4. Is sunscreen really necessary on gloomy, rainy days? Which formula won’t feel sticky?
Sunscreen is essential even on cloudy or rainy days. Up to 80 percent of ultraviolet (UV) rays can penetrate clouds, and prolonged exposure can cause pigmentation, premature aging, and skin cancer. People who spend time outside or sit near windows should continue to use sunscreen every day. During monsoon, light gel-based, fluid or water-based sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher are usually more comfortable than thick creams. Look for non-comedogenic and sweat-resistant formulations if your skin is oily or acne-prone. Applying sunscreen about 15 to 20 minutes before going outside and reapplying sunscreen every two to three hours during extended periods of time outside provides the best protection. Read this also World Sunscreen Day: Everything you need to know about how sunblock works, from ideal SPF ranges to UV protection
5. Can the moisturizer be skipped altogether when the air is extremely humid, or will this result in more oil?
No, one should not apply moisturizer just because the weather feels humid. Moisture does not replace the skin’s need for proper hydration. Without moisturizer, the skin barrier can be disrupted, leading to dryness, irritation, and sometimes increased oil production as the skin tries to protect itself. The main thing is to choose the right formulation. Light gel-based or non-comedogenic moisturizers work well for oily and combination skin during monsoon. People with dry or sensitive skin may still need cream-based products. Applying moisturizer immediately after cleansing retains moisture and keeps the skin healthy. Using the right moisturizer keeps the skin balanced instead of making it oily.
6. Can rain water cause breakouts? What is the best step to take for immediate skin care after getting wet?
Rain water does not directly cause acne, but getting wet can cause skin problems. Rainwater may contain dust, pollutants and microorganisms collected from the atmosphere. Wet skin combined with sweat, humidity and prolonged wet clothing creates an environment that can irritate the skin and promote bacterial or fungal growth. After soaking, gently wash face and any exposed skin with a mild cleanser, dry thoroughly, and change into clean, dry clothes. Apply a light moisturizer if necessary. Avoid sleeping with wet skin or wearing wet clothes for long periods of time. If breakouts, itching, or rashes persist despite proper hygiene, consult a dermatologist for evaluation and treatment.
7. Are there itching, sweat rashes or fungal infections in the skin layers during the rainy season? How is it treated?
Itching in the skin folds during monsoon can be caused either by sweat rash or fungal infection. Sweat pimples usually develop when sweat ducts become blocked, causing small red bumps, slight itching and a stinging sensation. Fungal infections often cause intense itching, redness, scaling and well-defined rashes that usually affect the groin, armpits, under the breasts and between the toes. The affected area should be kept clean and completely dry. Loose cotton clothing helps reduce moisture accumulation. Sweat rash usually resolves with cooling measures, while fungal infections require antifungal creams or oral medications prescribed by a dermatologist. Steroid cream should not be used without medical advice. Read this also Dermatologists Dr. Saurabh Shah and Dr. Tejal Manerikar explain how monsoon can also cause skin dryness, mistakes to avoid
8. Does applying oil to hair increase the problem of dandruff and itching in the head during monsoon?
Excessive oiling of hair during monsoon can increase dandruff and scalp itching, especially in people with dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. Humid environments encourage the growth of Malassezia yeast, which is linked to dandruff. Applying large amounts of oil and leaving it on the scalp for several hours or overnight can provide an environment that allows yeast to thrive, leading to flaking and irritation. If oiling is preferred, apply a small amount of oil for a short period of time before washing hair. Regularly washing the scalp with an anti-dandruff shampoo containing ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione or selenium sulfide may help control symptoms. Persistent itching or severe scaling should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
9. Is it normal to have excessive hair fall during the rainy season, and at what time should one see a doctor?
some people notice little Hair fall increases during rainy seasonAnd mild seasonal hair loss may be normal. Humidity, scalp infections, nutrient deficiencies, stress and existing hair disorders can also contribute to increased hair loss. However, excessive hair fall is not considered normal during monsoon. If hair continues to fall out for more than six to eight weeks, or if bald spots appear, thinning of the hairline, scalp pain, severe itching, or excessive dandruff, medical evaluation is recommended. A dermatologist can identify underlying causes such as fungal infection, telogen effluvium, thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, or androgenic alopecia and recommend appropriate treatment based on the diagnosis.
10. Should one avoid chemical treatments like smoothening or coloring of hair during rainy season?
There is no need to completely avoid chemical treatments like smoothening, coloring, rebonding or perming your hair during the rainy season, but extra care is important. Humidity can shorten the duration of some treatments and increase hair loss, making results less predictable. If there is dandruff, itching, fungal infection or open wounds on the head, chemical procedures should be postponed until the head heals. Always do a patch test before using hair color to check for allergic reactions. After treatment, use gentle sulphate-free shampoo, condition regularly and avoid excessive heat styling. If irritation, burning sensation, severe itching or persistent redness of the scalp develops after chemical treatment, consult a dermatologist immediately.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
