Skincare Through the Seasons: Summer, Monsoon and Winter in India

Summer: heat, sweat and strong UV

• Switch to a gel cleanser and a light gel moisturiser.
• Make sunscreen non-negotiable: a matte, sweat-resistant SPF 50 PA+++ or higher, reapplied outdoors.
• Rinse or wipe sweat off promptly, especially under helmets, masks and straps, to prevent breakouts and heat rash.
• Drink enough water and wear breathable cotton clothing.
• Expect more pigmentation; vitamin C or niacinamide in the morning helps.

Monsoon: humidity and infections

Humidity keeps skin damp and oily, which encourages clogged pores and fungal infections such as ringworm, especially in skin folds.

• Keep cleansing gentle — humid skin can still be irritated by harsh products.
• Use salicylic acid a few nights a week if you are breaking out.
• Dry skin folds, feet and the area between the toes thoroughly after getting wet.
• Do not skip sunscreen on cloudy days; UVA still reaches the skin.
• Change out of damp clothes and socks as soon as possible.

Winter: dry air and a weaker barrier

• Move to a cream cleanser and a richer moisturiser with ceramides.
• Avoid very hot water on the face and long hot baths.
• Apply moisturiser to damp skin and use a lip balm and hand cream regularly.
• Reduce exfoliating acids and retinoids if your skin starts to sting.
• Keep using sunscreen — winter sun, especially in the mountains, still causes damage.

Pollution, all year

Air pollution in many Indian cities adds oxidative stress, which can worsen pigmentation and dullness. Cleansing thoroughly at night, a morning antioxidant such as vitamin C, and sunscreen together offer reasonable protection.