The monsoon season brings welcome relief from the heat, but it also creates the perfect conditions for skin trouble. Rising humidity makes the skin produce more oil, sweat and grime, and all of that combines to clog pores, leading to pimples, blackheads and a duller complexion. The good news is that a few small changes to your daily skin care routine can prevent most of this damage. Here's why pores clog up during the rains and three simple steps that can keep your skin clear through the season.
Why monsoon humidity clogs your pores
According to experts, rising humidity during the monsoon makes the skin's oil glands more active. When excess sebum, sweat and dirt combine, they settle into the pores and block them. If the face isn't cleaned regularly during this period, bacteria can build up inside the clogged pores, worsening acne and other skin problems.
Wash your face twice a day with a mild cleanser
During monsoon, pick a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type and wash your face with it both in the morning and at night. This helps remove the extra oil, sweat and dirt that build up through the day and lowers the risk of clogged pores. That said, avoid washing your face too often, since over-washing strips away the skin's natural moisture and can leave it excessively dry.
Exfoliate gently once or twice a week
Dead skin cells are another major reason pores get blocked. Using a mild scrub or a gentle chemical exfoliant, such as one containing salicylic acid, once or twice a week can help keep the skin clean and the pores open. Anyone with sensitive skin should consult a dermatologist before trying any exfoliant, so the treatment doesn't end up irritating the skin instead of helping it.
Don't skip oil-free moisturiser and sunscreen
Many people stop using moisturiser during the rains because their skin already feels sticky, but keeping the skin hydrated remains essential. The better approach is to choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturiser that hydrates the skin without clogging the pores. It's also important not to skip sunscreen on cloudy days, since UV rays can pass through clouds and still reach the skin, causing damage.
Other small habits worth following
- Avoid touching your face repeatedly with your hands, since hands can transfer dirt and bacteria onto the skin.
- Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet to keep the skin healthy from within.
- Always use a clean pillowcase, since a dirty one can carry bacteria and oil that clog the skin's pores.
Building these three simple steps into a daily monsoon skin care routine can go a long way in preventing clogged pores, breakouts and dull skin, while helping the skin hold onto its natural glow through the rainy season.
