Each kind of skin is different; your skincare regimen should alter with the seasons. For example, redness, heat rash, sunburn, blocked and greasy pores, and red pimples can all result from the summer heat as well as the monsoon. For people with oily, dry, sensitive or acne-prone skin, this time of year could be challenging for them. It can lead to rashes, irritations, eczema, fungal infections, and breakouts.
As people eagerly anticipate the upcoming monsoon season and its rain-soaked days, it’s important to understand the skin concerns this season can bring. Dr. Shaista Lodhi explores how to manage and maintain healthy, glowing skin during this time in this Q/A session with Her.
Q. In your expert opinion, what skincare issues does monsoon pose for Pakistani skin?
Similar to summer, oil secretion may persist and even worsen. The humid weather can cause excess oil production, especially in the T-zone, while the rest of the skin may feel dry. Slight adjustments in your skincare routine are necessary with the changing season. Understanding these issues is crucial for maintaining healthy skin during this season.

Increased Sebum Production
Pakistani skin, typically oilier, faces heightened sebum production during the monsoon due to high humidity. This can clog pores, leading to frequent acne breakouts, blackheads, and whiteheads. The mix of sweat and oil further traps dirt and bacteria, worsening these issues.

Uneven Skin Tone
Combination skin, common among Pakistanis, can become imbalanced during the monsoon. Moisture increases oiliness in some areas and dryness in others, leading to uneven skin tone, blemishes, and pigmentation issues.

Skin Rashes and Irritation
Sensitive skin can become more reactive during the monsoon due to fluctuating temperatures and humidity, leading to rashes, itchiness, and eczema. Increased sweating can also cause heat rashes, especially in skin folds like the neck, armpits, and thighs.

Fungal Infection
The monsoon season in Pakistan increases fungal infections due to damp, humid conditions, ideal for fungi like ringworm, athlete’s foot, and yeast infections. Prolonged moisture in areas such as feet, underarms, and groin exacerbates the risk.
Q. What are your clients’ foremost concerns regarding skin issues when as rain and humidity increases?
Acne Breakouts
Because of the increasing temperatures, one of the major effects of summer on the skin is increased moisture. One may suffer from acne more often in the monsoon than at any other time of the year, even if one’s skin isn’t normally prone to acne. Clogged pores can result from moisture combining with natural oils found on one’s skin and bacteria. Acne outbreaks are commonly caused by this blockage of pores. Summertime brings more breakouts for those who have an acne prone skin. 
Dry Irritated Skin
It seems a bit curious given that we often associate summer with “feeling the heat” and sweating. However, dry skin can still be a problem. The main culprits for this are spending time in the sun without proper hydration, exposure to pool chemicals that can dry out and wash away protective oils, and of course, spending extended periods in air-conditioned environments. These factors contribute to dry and irritated skin during the monsoon season.
Heat Rash
The symptoms of heat rash typically include redness, itching, and the appearance of small, raised bumps or blisters on the affected areas of the skin. When these bumps burst and release sweat, it can result in a prickly sensation on the skin, an unpleasant experience, especially during the monsoon season. These symptoms may worsen with continued sweating and heat exposure.
Fungal Infections
During the monsoon season, fungal infections thrive in the warm, damp conditions, making it an ideal breeding ground. Prolonged moisture on the skin, coupled with sweat and inadequate ventilation, creates an environment where fungi can proliferate. Areas like between the toes, in the groin, and under the breasts, which stay moist, are especially susceptible to these infections.
Q. For our readers with oily skin, what precautions should they take in the rainy season?
During the rainy season, individuals with oily skin should take specific precautions to maintain healthy and clear skin. Here are the following precautions that one can take to manage oily skin effectively during this time.
•    Cleanse the face twice daily using a gentle, oil-free cleanser to remove excess oil and impurities without drying out the skin.
•    Use a toner with ingredients like salicylic acid or witch hazel to tighten pores and control oil production.
•    Moisturise with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser.
•    Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily.
•    Exfoliate once or twice a week with a gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores.
•    Avoid touching the face to prevent transferring bacteria and oils from the hands to the skin.
•    Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to help regulate oil production and maintain skin health.
•    Opt for lighter, oil-free makeup products to avoid exacerbating oiliness and clogged pores.
Q. What effects of the monsoon season should our readers with dry skin be aware of and how should they cater to them?
Low humidity creates a condition where there is insufficient moisture in the air, when the humidity level is low then regardless of your skin type the air will draw moisture away from the skin, leading to a depletion of its natural oils. This can result in extreme dryness and flakiness. To combat the effects of humidity, it’s crucial to use hydrating skincare products that help to restore moisture and maintain the skin’s barrier function.
Additionally, it’s important to take several precautions to maintain healthy skin.
•    Moisturise regularly with a heavy, oil-based moisturiser.
•    Avoid hot showers and instead use lukewarm water.
•    Exfoliate once a week to remove dead skin cells.
•    Use a gentle face cleanser.
•    Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, to protect your skin from the rain.
Q. For your on-air appearance, what precautions do you take for make-up application and removal, especially in the rainy season?
It’s crucial to take precautions when applying and removing makeup. Here are some important tips:
•    Use gentle micellar water or lightweight cleansing oils instead of heavy creams or oil-based cleansers for makeup removal to avoid pore-clogging and residue buildup.
•    Double cleanse with a gentle cleanser to prevent breakouts and keep skin clean.
•    Apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser post-cleansing to hydrate your skin without adding extra face oil.
•    Carry blotting papers to absorb excess oil throughout the day without disrupting your makeup to maintain a fresh and matte appearance.

Q. With fungal infections like ringworm and tinea on the rise during monsoon, what are your go-to suggestions for your patients?
Here are some tips to prevent fungal infections during this time:
•    Thoroughly dry skin, especially in sweat-prone areas, after showers or getting wet.
•    Choose loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton to reduce sweating.
•    Quickly change wet clothes and ensure shoes, socks, and undergarments are dry before reusing them.
•    Wash and dry clothes, towels, and bedsheets regularly, and use antifungal powders or sprays in moisture-prone areas.
•    Do not share towels, clothing, or footwear to prevent spreading infections.
•    Apply antifungal spray or powder to areas prone to moisture and sweating.
•    Seek medical advice if you notice symptoms like persistent itching, redness, or rash.
Q. To what issues do people suffer from due to excessive sweating during humidity? What are your expert suggestions for them?
Excessive sweating in humid conditions can lead to unpleasant odours, causing discomfort and social anxiety. This occurs when sweat combines with bacteria on the skin. Hyperhidrosis, which may be present from birth or develop later, most commonly affects individuals aged 20 to 60.
Here are some suggestions to manage malodors caused by excessive sweating during humidity:
•    Shower twice daily with antibacterial soap.
•    Deodorants eliminate odour but do not reduce sweat. Typically, alcohol-based, they make the skin acidic, which is less attractive to bacteria and prevents their breeding.
•    Wear breathable fabrics like cotton to allow the skin to breathe and reduce sweat accumulation.
•    Avoid synthetic fabrics.
•    Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
•    Change clothes frequently, especially after sweating, and wash clothes regularly.
•    Avoid foods and drinks that can increase sweating, such as caffeine and spicy foods; include more fruits and vegetables in your diet.
•    Consult a dermatologist if excessive sweating and malodors persist for potential treatments like prescription antiperspirants or Botox injections.
Q. To conclude, what is the one skincare product that you always carry regardless of the weather?
One skincare product I always carry, regardless of the weather, is a good quality moisturiser and good quality sunblock with SPF 60 or more than that. It’s essential for keeping my skin hydrated and balanced in summer. This product ensures my skin stays healthy in any climate.
Adapting your skincare routine to address issues is essential for maintaining healthy, radiant skin. Incorporate gentle, oil-free cleansers, hydrating toners, and lightweight moisturisers into your daily regimen to manage the excess oil and humidity that can lead to acne and fungal infections. By understanding your specific skin type and adjusting your routine accordingly, you can prevent problems such as dryness, irritation, and breakouts. Embrace the rainy season confidently by following these skincare tips, ensuring your skin remains glowing and healthy throughout the monsoon.

Dr. Shaista Lodhi is an expert in the field of Aesthetic Medicine & Cosmetology, and a renowned television presenter and actress.