The phenomenon of alternating heat and rain in this time of the year is usually a bad combination for skin and hair. It puts us within the reach of viruses, bacteria and parasites and our skin is prone to skin infections like fungal, bacterial and parasitic and also skin allergies are commonly seen in this season.
Specifically, wet clothes worn for long hours leads to fungal infections in underarms and wet feet gives rise to mixed infections or results in athlete’s foot. Bacterial and fungal infections dominate this season, and especially attack the feet. Allergies and skin eczema tend to flare and increase. At this time, your skin behaves in an unpredictable manner and fluctuates from oily to dry, increasing chances of fungal and bacterial harm. Use a mild soap free cleanser twice daily for washing the face. A facial scrub for dead skin exfoliation twice a week is recommended. This must be followed by a mild alcohol-free toner to clear residual skin impurities and reduce pores.
A daily sunscreen is essential even on a cloudy day as the UV rays can penetrate the cloud cover and harm the skin. Mild chemical peels under a dermatologist’s supervision rejuvenates your dull skin in monsoon and maintains the skin’s PH balance.
Nowadays, there are new dermatologically tested light, sheer makeup products available in the market. Use lightweight mousse or souffle powders as a base. Make sure you sterilize make-up tools like brushes and applicators on regular basis to prevent skin infections.
— The writer is a dermatologist and aesthetic physician.
