The rainy season brings a much-needed respite from the scorching summer heat. However, it also brings along a new set of skincare challenges. With the shift in humidity and temperature, our skin tends to react differently. To keep your skin glowing and healthy throughout the rainy season, it's crucial to debunk some common skincare myths.
Myth #1: You Don't Need Moisturizer in Humid Weather
Fact: While the air may feel heavy with moisture, your skin can still become dehydrated during the rainy season. Humidity doesn't equate to hydration. Rainwater washes away natural oils, and indoor air conditioning can further dry out your skin. A lightweight, oil-free moisturizer helps lock in moisture and keeps your skin plump and healthy.
Here's why skipping moisturizer in humid weather is a bad idea:
- Disruption of the skin barrier: Rainwater can disrupt the skin's natural barrier, leaving it vulnerable to dehydration and irritation. Moisturizer helps restore and strengthen the barrier, keeping your skin healthy.
- Increased oil production: When your skin feels dehydrated, it can go into overdrive producing oil to compensate. This can lead to breakouts for oily and acne-prone skin. Moisturizer helps regulate oil production and keeps your skin balanced.
- Appearance of dullness: Dehydrated skin appears dull and lackluster. Moisturizer plumps up the skin cells, giving your complexion a healthy glow.
Tips for moisturizing in humid weather:
- Look for lightweight, oil-free moisturizers labeled as "non-comedogenic" or "hydrating."
- Apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp from cleansing to lock in moisture.
- If your skin feels greasy after applying moisturizer, try using a mattifying primer before makeup.
Myth #2: Exfoliating Should Be Minimized During Monsoons
Fact: Exfoliation is essential for maintaining healthy, radiant skin throughout the year, including the rainy season. Dead skin cell buildup can clog pores and lead to breakouts. However, opt for gentle exfoliation methods like chemical exfoliants with AHAs or BHAs instead of harsh scrubs that can irritate your skin. Limit exfoliation to 1-2 times a week.
Here's why regular exfoliation is important during the rainy season:
- Promotes cell turnover: Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, allowing new, healthy cells to surface. This results in brighter, smoother, and more radiant skin.
- Reduces breakouts: Dead skin cells can clog pores and trap dirt and oil, leading to breakouts. Regular exfoliation helps keep pores clear and prevent blemishes.
- Enhances product absorption: Exfoliation removes the top layer of dead skin cells, allowing skincare products to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.
Tips for exfoliating during the rainy season:
- Avoid harsh scrubs, especially if you have sensitive skin.
- Opt for chemical exfoliants with AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) for gentle but effective exfoliation.
- Limit exfoliation to 1-2 times a week, depending on your skin type.
- Always moisturize after exfoliating to soothe and hydrate your skin.
Myth #3: Oily Skin Doesn't Need Extra Care During Rains
Fact: Contrary to popular belief, oily skin also needs attention during the rainy season. The change in humidity can trigger excess oil production, leading to breakouts. Use a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil and dirt without stripping your skin's natural oils. Opt for water-based moisturizers and non-comedogenic makeup to prevent clogged pores.
Here's why oily skin needs extra care during the rainy season:
- Increased humidity: Humid weather can cause oily skin to go into overdrive, producing even more oil. This can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.
- Sweat: Increased sweating during the rainy season can mix with oil on the skin's surface, creating a greasy appearance.
- Bacterial growth: The combination of sweat and oil can create a breeding ground for bacteria, which can contribute to breakouts.
Tips for caring for oily skin during the rainy season:
- Wash your face twice a day with a gentle, oil-free cleanser.
- Use toner to remove excess oil and tighten pores. Look for toners with ingredients like witch hazel or salicylic acid.
- Apply a lightweight, water-based moisturizer to hydrate your skin without clogging pores.
- Avoid oil-based makeup products and opt for mineral makeup or non-comedogenic formulas.
- Blot throughout the day with oil-absorbing sheets to remove excess shine
You can also use Oak Tree Naturals skincare and cosmetic products for a healthy and glowing skin.
