S‘kinship’ in the pitter patter!

Monsoon is often touted as one of the toughest seasons for skin care. But are the do’s and dont’s any different A Bengaluru-based dermatologist breaks it down

Monsoon can often be tough on your skin –– with the texture often oscillating from oily to dry and dehydrated, thanks to the dicey weather. That said, the need for greater and a more thoughtful approach to skin care is the need of the hour. While the routine SPF application (No matter how cloudy it may appear) is indispensable, there are a couple of other points to follow. From cleansing to when exactly to step in for a facial, here’s a fool-proof guide to appropriate skin care this season.

When it comes to cleansing, ensure you do not cleanse more than two to three times a day. And always use a soap free cleanser / Ph cleanser. This will help maintain clean, healthy skin without stripping it of its essential oils.

Most importantly, make sure you wash your face if you are exposed to the rain, as the rain water is polluted and carries pathogens that cause irritation and even allergies.

For those with oily skin, tone your skin with an alcohol-free toner. For other skin types, skip the toner entirely this monsoon. You don't require a heavy moisturiser, either.

When using sunscreen, stick to one with SPF of at least 30. If it is pouring, use a waterproof sunscreen. Even when cloudy, the radiation from the sun is 80 percent, so you need that sunscreen.

When it comes to exfoliating, stick to Microdermabrasion or a mild chemical peel to reduce the risk of contracting skin infections that lead to acne breakouts.

Use a hydrator containing hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin.

Maintain a healthy diet. Include boiled vegetable, salads and soups this season to maintain your skin health. Try and moderate your junk food and increase water intake to at least 10 glasses of 200 ml each per day.

Take anti oxidants with components of Ubiquinone, Lycopene, and Pycnogenol, as they are some of the most effective oral anti oxidants.

Irrespective of your skin type, go in for a detox or hydrating medi facial once in six weeks.

Remember, a mild chemical peel like glycolic acid peel is much better recommended than a bleach. Bleaching will dehydrate your skin and make it patchy. So make the right choice and let your skin rejoice!

— The writer is a celebrity cosmetic dermatologist.