Skincare tips and home remedies for surviving the Mumbai monsoon

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 MidDay spoke to Dr Malavika Kohli Consultant Dermatologist at Jaslok Hospital and Breach Candy HospitalBelow she answers important questions about monsoon skincare lists practices we should avoid and shares some effective home remediesHow important is it to moisturise skin and how can we keep our skin hydratedHydration 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 timeHydrating 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 bayHow to deal with frequent acne breakouts during monsoonAcne 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 itHow to avoid fungal infectionsFungal 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 antifungal powder for these areas Special care must be taken to ensure that footwear and towels are kept dryDo we need to apply sunscreen even when conditions are overcastSunscreens 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 siliconebased matte product is ideal for this humid weatherCan humidity aggravate PCOD acne What precautions can be takenHumidity aggravates all types of acne especially in oilier skin One may want to double cleanse makeup sweat dirt and grease build up by first using micellar water followed by a gentle cleanser without rubbing the skinThe humidity makes your skin geta 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 pasteWhat are some practices we should avoidEssential oils should not be left on the face for more than twenty minutesAvoid excessive steam inhalation or steam baths Stick to once a week for five to seven minutes and make sure to have a cool shower afterIf you get a body massage shower within twenty minutesAvoid leaving hair oil overnight to prevent breakouts on the faceDIY home remedies for monsoon skincareThe skin can feel dull during monsoon use a sheet mask with charcoal or a charcoal containing peel off maskCucumber juice with rose water works as a good hydrator post cleansing It is soothing around the eyes and on irritated rosaceaprone sensitive skinFor dry skin use glycerine rose water with a few drops of lemon juice Refrigerate the mixture and apply cold post cleansingShop NowSR NOProductShop Now1Veet Silk amp Fresh Hair Removal CreamShop Now2Oriflame Feet Up Advanced Cracked Heel Repair Foot CreamShop Now3Biotique Bio Honey Gel Refreshing Foaming Face WashShop Now4Himalaya Himcolin GelShop Now5Dettol Clinical Strength Antiseptic Hand SanitizerShop Now