Ayurvedic Skincare for Monsoon: Essential Tips for Oily Skin During the Rainy Season

The monsoon season brings a refreshing change but also poses unique challenges for our skin. Ayurvedic skincare for monsoon is essential to maintain healthy, glowing skin, especially for oily skin. The increased humidity and dampness can lead to excess oil production, acne, and other skin issues. By adjusting our skincare routines to include Ayurvedic practices, we can effectively manage these problems and keep our skin looking its best.

भूबाष्पान्मेघनिस्यन्दात् पाकादम्लाज्जलस्य च| वर्षास्वग्निबले क्षीणे कुप्यन्ति पवनादयः||34|| (च.सु.६/३४)

Translation: Due to evaporating vapors from the Earth, rainfall, and the sour-acidic transformation (amla vipaka) of water, the Agni (digestive fire) is weakened during the rainy season, leading to the further vitiation of Vata and other doshas.

Rainy Season in Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, the year can be divided into ‌6 ritus or seasons, Sisira, Vasanta, Grishma, Varsha, Sharat, and Hemanta. Mid-July to mid-September is considered Varsha Ritu or the monsoons. It comes under Dakshinayana or Visarga Kala, i.e., when the sun traverses to the south. The strength of the body generally declines, and the Agni or metabolism is very low, so it's essential to follow the right dietary and lifestyle regimen to keep ourselves healthy. The cold rainy days lead to vitiation of vata dosha, characterized by dryness, roughness, and lightness, and Pitta dosha accumulates.

Understanding Monsoon Skin Issues

During the monsoon, common skin problems such as acne, fungal infections, and excess oil production become more prevalent. These issues arise due to the high humidity and fluctuating temperatures that cause our skin to produce more oil, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Ayurvedic skincare for monsoon focuses on balancing the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and addressing the root causes of these skin issues.

Skin Issues in Monsoons

During the monsoon, Vata dosha is highly aggravated. If not controlled properly, it can cause various skin problems, such as

1- Dullness: At this time of the year, the amount of Vata dosha is aggravated, which leads to the accumulation of dead skin leading to dull and dry skin.

2- Oily skin and breakouts: Acne is one of the most common skin problems seen in monsoon. High humidity, along with the onset of pitta dosha accumulation in this season leads to increased heat in blood and skin. This Rakta dushti and increased sebum secretion give rise to acne and oily skin. Switch to a lightweight moisturizer for monsoon skin care. Avoid heavy makeup and use water-based products. Take a bath in lukewarm water. Avoid overwashing your face. Exfoliate your skin once a week. Apply a face pack of Aloe vera with turmeric. Wash it off after 15 minutes.

3 - Allergies and skin infection: During monsoon, your skin is more prone to bacterial and fungal infections. The increased pitta and vata dosha make the skin susceptible to the minutest infection. Raised humidity and unhygienic conditions add to the misery. Take a bath in water boiled with neem, tulsi, and fresh turmeric roots.

Best to consult your Ayurveda Physician for an exact diagnosis of your skin type and herbs suitable for it.

Tips on avoiding skin issues through proper hygiene

• Regular Exercise: Exercise regularly to improve blood circulation and keep your skin healthy.
• Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough sleep to allow your skin to repair and rejuvenate.
• Hydration: Keep yourself hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids. Don't drink juices, as the added sugar might hamper digestion. Instead, consume warm water boiled with digestive herbs.

Ayurvedic Principles for Monsoon Skincare

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of using natural ingredients and following specific routines to maintain skin health. During the monsoon, it is crucial to balance the Kapha dosha, which is responsible for oil production. Incorporating Ayurvedic skincare tips can help manage oily skin and prevent common monsoon-related skin problems.

Essential Monsoon Skincare Tips for Oily Skin

Cleansing

Keeping the skin clean and free from excess oil is vital during the monsoon. Use Ayurvedic cleansers that contain ingredients like neem and sandalwood, which have natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These ingredients help control oil production and prevent acne.

Exfoliating

Gentle exfoliation is necessary to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Ayurvedic exfoliators such as gram flour and turmeric are excellent for oily skin. Exfoliate 2-3 times weekly to keep your skin smooth and clear.

Moisturizing

Even oily skin needs moisturization. Opt for lightweight, non-greasy moisturizers with Ayurvedic ingredients like aloe vera and virgin coconut oil. These ingredients hydrate the skin without clogging pores, keeping it soft and supple.

Sun Protection

Madhuyashtiadi oil, Kumkumadi oil, and Shata dhauta ghrita (100 times washed ghee) are the best natural coolants and protect against sun rays. Also, shata dhauta ghrita is suitable for all skin types.

Hydration

Internal hydration is crucial for healthy skin. Drink plenty of water and herbal teas infused with Ayurvedic herbs to maintain hydration levels and flush out toxins from your body.

Best Ayurvedic Skincare Products for Oily Skin in Monsoon

• Cleansers: Gentle Ayurvedic cleansers like neem and tulsi help remove excess oil and impurities.

• Exfoliators: Mild natural exfoliants such as gram flour and sandalwood powder are perfect for oily skin.

• Moisturizers: Lightweight Ayurvedic moisturizers like aloe vera gel and coconut oil keep the skin hydrated without making it greasy.

DIY Ayurvedic Skincare Remedies for Monsoon

1. Face Masks

• Honey and Turmeric Mask: Mix honey and turmeric to create a soothing face mask that reduces inflammation and brightens the skin.

• Yogurt and Gram Flour Mask: Combine yogurt and gram flour to exfoliate and cleanse the skin naturally.

2. Toners

• Rose Water: Use rose water as a natural toner to refresh and hydrate the skin.

• Green Tea: Apply green tea as a toner to reduce oiliness and soothe the skin.

Ayurvedic Alternatives for Monsoon Skincare Scrubs

In Ayurveda, natural ingredients are favored for their healing properties and effectiveness in maintaining skin health. Here are Ayurvedic alternatives to the commonly suggested oatmeal and sugar-lemon scrubs:

1. Gram Flour (Besan) and Turmeric Scrub
Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of gram flour (besan)
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• Rose water or milk (for mixing)

1. Mix gram flour and turmeric powder in a bowl.
2. Add rose water (for oily skin) or milk (for dry skin) to form a paste.
3. Apply the paste to your face and gently scrub in circular motions.
4. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.

Benefits: Gram flour helps in exfoliating dead skin cells and controlling excess oil, while turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help prevent acne and brighten the skin.

2. Sandalwood and Honey Scrub
Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of sandalwood powder
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• A few drops of rose water

1. Mix sandalwood powder and honey in a bowl.
2. Add a few drops of rose water to achieve a smooth consistency.
3. Gently massage the scrub onto your face in circular motions.
4. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then wash off with cool water.

Benefits: Sandalwood powder is known for its cooling and soothing properties, making it ideal for calming irritated skin. Honey is a natural humectant that keeps the skin moisturized and helps in gentle exfoliation.

3. Masoor Dal (Red Lentil) and Milk Scrub
Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of masoor dal (red lentil) powder
• 1 tablespoon of milk
• A pinch of turmeric

1. Grind masoor dal into a fine powder.
2. Mix the masoor dal powder with milk and a pinch of turmeric to form a paste.
3. Apply the scrub to your face and gently exfoliate in circular motions.
4. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.

Benefits: Masoor dal acts as a natural exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and impurities. Milk nourishes and moisturizes the skin, while turmeric helps in reducing inflammation and brightens the complexion.

4. Neem and Tulsi (Basil) Scrub
Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of neem powder
• 1 tablespoon of tulsi (basil) powder
• Rose water or yogurt (for mixing)

1. Combine neem powder and tulsi powder in a bowl.
2. Add rose water (for oily skin) or yogurt (for dry skin) to create a paste.
3. Gently scrub the mixture onto your face in circular motions.
4. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cool water.

Benefits: Neem and tulsi have strong antibacterial and antifungal properties, making them excellent for preventing and treating acne and other skin infections. This scrub helps purify the skin and control excess oil.
These Ayurvedic scrubs offer natural and effective ways to exfoliate and nourish your skin during the monsoon season, helping you maintain a healthy and glowing complexion.

Lifestyle Tips for Healthy Skin During Monsoon
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for glowing skin. Follow these Ayurvedic beauty tips for monsoon:

• Balanced Diet: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to provide essential nutrients for your skin.

व्यक्ताम्ललवणस्नेहं वातवर्षाकुलेऽहनि| विशेषशीते भोक्तव्यं वर्षास्वनिलशान्तये||३७|| In the rainy season when the days are cooler due to wind and rain, one should predominantly take sour, salty, and light food to alleviate vata. 

A person taking care of his agni should consume old barley; wheat and shali rice (Oryza sativa Linn) 

• Proper Hygiene: Keep your skin clean and dry to prevent fungal infections.

Conclusion

Adapting your skincare routine to the monsoon season is essential for maintaining healthy, glowing skin. By following Ayurvedic skincare tips and using natural ingredients, you can effectively manage oily skin and prevent common monsoon-related skin issues. Embrace the Ayurvedic approach to skincare and enjoy radiant skin throughout the rainy season.

FAQ's

Q1: Can oily skin get worse during the monsoon? 

Ans: Yes, due to increased humidity, oily skin can produce more sebum, leading to clogged pores and acne.

Q2: Are there any specific Ayurvedic treatments for acne during the monsoon?

Ans: Yes, ingredients like neem, turmeric, and sandalwood are effective in treating acne according to Ayurveda.

Q3: How often should I exfoliate my oily skin during the monsoon? 

Ans: It’s recommended to exfoliate 2-3 times a week with gentle, natural exfoliants.

Q4: Is it necessary to use a moisturizer if I have oily skin?

Ans: Yes, using a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer is essential to keep the skin hydrated without clogging pores.

Q5: What Ayurvedic ingredients should I look for in a monsoon skincare routine?

Ans: Look for ingredients like neem, tulsi, aloe vera, turmeric, and sandalwood in your skincare products.