

As the rains pour down and humidity rises, your skin faces a new set of challenges which can be fixed, writes ABHI SINGHAL
The rainy season is in full swing. While the downpour brings a welcome change in the weather and a much-needed break from the heat, it can also wreak havoc on your skin if not cared for properly. As the seasons shift, so do your skin’s needs. The monsoon brings with it a wet, humid and sticky climate. Balancing the moisture content on your skin is important during the monsoons.
Many people overlook skincare during this time, assuming that less sun exposure means less damage. But that’s a common misconception. Your skin may require more attention during the monsoons to stay healthy, clear and comfortable.
Whenever your skin feels over heavy and you feel something is not right, either it is more oil on the skin or it is drier, it means something is going wrong. At such times, considering a dermatologist for the best care of your skin is always recommended.
Renowned beauty expert Shahnaz Husain offers time-tested home remedies to help you tackle common skin concerns during the monsoon season. As the weather turns humid and unpredictable, her natural skincare tips can help you maintain a healthy, radiant complexion using simple, effective ingredients found at home.
Cleansing- You would want to achieve a skin that is free from excessive oiliness. Squeeze a lemon in a bowl of water and apply it to your face, then rinse your face with plain water. Your skin will be brighter, cleaner and rejuvenated.
Face mask- Making a home-made face mask that soothes the skin, manages any kind of inflammation and protects your skin against any infection. Shahnaz suggests preparing Turmeric paste with half a teaspoon of raw turmeric and mixing it with a tablespoon of Rose Water. Mix it well, apply it on your face, leave it on for 20 minutes, rinse off, and you will achieve a beautiful glow on your skin.
Natural moisturiser- Aloe vera gel is one of the best natural ingredients for moisturising your skin, hydrating it without making it greasy. Extract fresh gel from the aloe vera plant and apply it to your face. Leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse off with water.
Natural scrub- Oatmeal is one of the best ingredients that is good for all skin types when it comes to preparing a natural scrub or skin polish. Mix a teaspoon of oatmeal with honey or yoghurt in a bowl, then apply the mixture on your face, let it dry, rub in circular motions for a few minutes and rinse off.
In addition to these home remedies, there are also several practical tips you can follow during the rainy season to maintain healthy, glowing skin. These skincare suggestions come from a Dermatologist and Aesthetic Physician, Dr Chandani Jain Gupta.
Gentle Cleanse - Use a mild face wash which should be non-pore clogging, for removing the sweat, dirt and any oil built up during the humid conditions.
Keep pores clear – Exfoliate your skin wisely, by at least cleaning your face 2-3 times a week, to prevent any blackheads.
Make use of toners – Use alcohol free toners to tighten the pores, control oil, and keep the skin fresh.
Use moisturisers – during the humid conditions also the skin requires to be well hydrated, so make use of light moisturisers that are water-based and also suit your skin type.
Make use of blotting paper – to avoid over-washing your face, and to control the oil and shine, make use of blotting paper whenever needed.
With the right care and a mix of natural remedies and expert tips, your skin can stay healthy and radiant all through the monsoon. Listen to what your skin needs and let the rains refresh, not ruin, your glow.