The Salon Pro’s Guide to Men’s Monsoon Skin Health

Learn these expert-approved regimes to help your male clients breeze through the rainy season with clear and balanced skin.

Words:  Shweta Dravid

The monsoon often brings with it a unique set of challenges for the skin. While women are usually perceived to be more invested in skincare, the modern man is increasingly aware of the importance of maintaining healthy, resilient skin. The shift in humidity, temperature, and environmental pollutants can wreak havoc on the most robust of complexions.

StyleSpeak discusses with Dr. Shefali Trasi Nerurkar, Consultant Dermatologist at Dr. Trasi Clinic and La Piel Skin Clinic, how salon professionals can ensure their clients’ skin remains nourished and glowing in this weather.

The Wet Weather Woes

The increased dampness during the season results in skin woes for men, as they often have larger pores and more active sebaceous glands. One of the most common complaints is excessive oiliness and greasiness.

The weather also signals the skin to produce more sebum, leading to a shiny complexion and clogged pores, which can escalate into acne breakouts and pimples.  Dr. Shefali adds, “The humid environment makes the skin prone to bacterial and fungal infections.”

Beyond acne, fungal infections like ringworm, tinea cruris (jock itch),  and athlete’s foot become more prevalent due to damp clothing and footwear, Dr. Shefali emphasises. Furthermore, the constant humidity can lead to dullness and a lack of radiance, as the skin struggles to breathe and shed dead cells effectively.

Hair-related issues like dandruff and scalp infections are common. “Pediculosis (head lice) is another hair woe that men could face during monsoons, as wet hair leads to the incidence of lice, along with bacterial infections like folliculitis– infection in hair follicles,  where patients complain of red pus-filled boils”, she adds.

Monsoon Dos and Don’ts: What Salon Pros Should Recommend

Dos:

• Cleanse with Care: “Opt for a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser that suits your skin type, especially if it’s oily or acne-prone,” advises Dr. Shefali. Cleansing twice daily helps remove excess sebum, dirt, and pollutants without over-drying the skin.
• Fungal Protection is Key: The monsoon season sees a sharp rise in fungal infections like tinea and candida, particularly in men. Dr. Shefali recommends using antifungal powders for areas prone to sweating.
• Hydrate, Don’t Suffocate: Suggest gel or water-based moisturisers that are light yet hydrating, as heavy creams can clog pores.
• Exfoliate, But Gently: A weekly exfoliation keeps dead skin and blackheads at bay. Just be sure to match the exfoliant to the skin type.
• Sunscreen Still Matters: Don’t ditch sunscreen just because it’s cloudy. UV rays penetrate clouds and can still damage the skin. Use a non-greasy SPF 30+

Don’ts:

• Skip Oily Products: Avoid recommending oil-based serums or thick creams. These can trap humidity and block pores.
• Over-wash or Scrub Harshly: Too much cleansing can strip the skin’s barrier. Twice a day is enough.
• Change Clothing Habits: Tight, synthetic fabrics worsen fungal infections. “Wear loose cotton clothes or dry-fit clothes, which dry up faster than other materials”, recommends Dr. Shefali.
• Grooming Zones: Areas like the beard, neck, and feet need extra care as they can become hotspots for infection or irritation.

Skincare Regime to Follow in This Season

Morning Routine:

• Cleanse: Start with a gentle, oil-controlling face wash. “In monsoons, the skin becomes oily. Use exfoliating cleansers to wash the face”, suggests Dr. Shefali. Always use antiseptic soaps on the body to prevent infections.
• Tone: A non-alcoholic toner can help balance pH and minimise pores.
• Serum: A lightweight vitamin C serum can provide antioxidant protection and brighten the skin.
• Moisturize: Apply a light, gel-based or oil-free moisturiser.
• Sunscreen: Finish with a broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30+.

Evening Routine:

• Cleanse: Thoroughly cleanse your face to remove accumulated dirt, oil, and pollutants from the day.
• Treat (If needed): If dealing with acne, apply a spot treatment containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. For active acne, incorporating a targeted treatment at night can be beneficial. However, it’s crucial to use these products as directed to avoid excessive dryness.
• Moisturize: Always use moisturisers with hyaluronic acid or ceramosides.

Weekly Additions:

• Exfoliate: Once or twice a week, use a gentle scrub or a chemical exfoliant to remove dead skin cells.
• Face Mask: A clay or purifying mask once a week can help absorb excess oil and deep cleanse pores.
• Facials or Clean-ups: Offer monsoon-specific facials or detoxifying treatments.
• Foot Care: Suggest antifungal pedicures or medicated foot soaks.

Conclusion

Sometimes, the skin needs professional treatment in this season. “Exfoliating peels like salicylic acid or glycolic peels help decrease sebum production. One can also opt for skin rejuvenating treatments like microneedling and lasers to improve the open pores and prevent clogging”, suggests Dr. Shefali.

Men can safeguard their skin like pros by adopting a tailored and customised approach.