When temperature soars and humidity strikes, your scalp becomes the first victim, says ABHI SINGHAL
The humid weather brings with it relentless sweat. At the end of June and the month of July, when the temperatures skyrocket, the sweat, apart from affecting the body, also impacts the scalp in various ways. Greasy hair returns just a day after washing, and dandruff clings to your strands. Tied hair throughout the day does not allow the sweat to evaporate; instead, it stays trapped, irritating your scalp and causing further discomfort.
The damaging part is also the rainwater. “Rainwater is loaded with pollutants, dust and even acid residues which are irritating for the scalp and disturb its pH balance. Sweaty scalp plus exposure to rainwater makes the hair fall more prominent”. says Dr Khushboo Jha.
Rainwater, despite seeming pure, is far from clean — especially in urban areas. As it falls through polluted air, it picks up particulate matter, chemical residues and microbes. When this contaminated water touches the scalp, it disrupts the natural barrier, weakens the roots, and leaves hair prone to infection and inflammation. The scalp’s microbiome is sensitive to these sudden changes, often resulting in excess oil production or dryness, depending on the individual’s skin type.
Both extremes further aggravate dandruff and itching. Humidity further intensifies these effects. The combination of sweat, dirt, and rainwater increases fungal activity on the scalp, especially if hair remains damp for long. Moisture-laden conditions are ideal for fungal growth, leading to itchiness, flakiness, and hair fall. Those with longer hair or scalp sensitivity may notice a quicker onset of symptoms if proper care isn’t taken immediately after rain exposure.
Hair fall during monsoon is common due to high humidity, fungal infections, and clogged follicles caused by sweat and dirt. The roots become weaker, especially if the scalp isn’t kept clean. So, while oiling the hair can be nourishing, it must be done the right way.
Dr Khushboo says that, “During monsoons one should beware of oiling their scalp heavily as more oil attracts dirt and clogs the pores. Use light oiling and after massaging hair, wash it off within an hour. Shampoos should be anti-fungal in nature and make sure to wash hair after it gets exposed to rainwater.” Dandruff grows bad during the time when heat and humidity hits the season. The scalp becomes dry and the bacteria make it even worse and itchiness surrounds you the whole day. Avoid too many gel based products on your scalp to avoid this.
— Inputs by Dr Khushboo Jha, MBBS, MD, Chief Dermatologist Consultant Metro Hospital