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India Today

Do you need sunscreen during the monsoon? Here's the truth

As the season gradually shifts from scorching summer to the humid monsoon, many people assume they can ease up on skincare—especially sunscreen. But that's a misconception that can cost your skin its glow and Today spoke with Dr Kumaresan, Consultant Dermatologist at Cutis Skin Clinic & Hair Transplant Centre, Coimbatore, to debunk common monsoon skincare myths and understand why sun protection is still a daily essential, even on cloudy 1: CLOUDY SKIES MEAN NO NEED FOR SUNSCREENFACT: One of the most widespread myths is that you don't need sunscreen when the sky is overcast. However, science says otherwise—clouds block only up to 50% of harmful UVA and UVB rays, meaning your skin is still exposed to around 50% of UV radiation. This radiation penetrates clouds and reflects off wet surfaces like puddles and roads, worsening pigmentation, collagen breakdown, premature aging, and even increasing the risk of skin Kumaresan advises using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen (SPF 50+) throughout the monsoon. Opt for a non-sticky, hydrating formula that suits humid weather and reapply every two hours or after sweating or getting wet. Apply at least 1 teaspoon on the face and 2 tablespoons on the body, 15–20 minutes before sun 2: HUMIDITY MEANS LESS NEED TO CLEANSE OR MOISTURISEadvertisementFACT: Humidity may make skin feel damp, but it traps sweat, dirt, pollutants, and bacteria, leading to clogged pores, breakouts, and fungal infections. Contrary to belief, monsoon weather calls for consistent cleansing and a gentle gel-based cleanser twice daily to manage excess oil and prevent breakouts. Ingredients like salicylic acid help cleanse without over-drying, while electrolytes in cleansers support ingredient absorption and skin with a non-comedogenic, lightweight gel moisturiser containing hyaluronic acid to provide hydration without greasiness. Skipping moisturiser can weaken the skin's barrier, leading to more sensitivity and 3: ANY SUNSCREEN WILL DO DURING MONSOONFACT: Sunscreen isn't one-size-fits-all, especially in humid, rainy weather. Choose a water-resistant, broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen formulated for monsoon sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are ideal for sensitive skin as they reflect UV rays, while chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and are often lighter, making them better for oily for sunscreens with niacinamide or vitamin C for added antioxidant protection. These ingredients help neutralize UV-triggered free radicals and repair sun-induced skin damage. Tinted sunscreens also offer added protection while minimising MONSOON SKINCARE IS ABOUT YEAR-ROUND SKIN HEALTHMonsoon skincare isn't only about avoiding acne or fungal issues—it's about being consistent with sun protection, hydration, and barrier repair. Just because you can't see the sun doesn't mean it isn't harming your Dr Kumaresan stresses, 'SPF should be a daily ritual, no matter the season—just like brushing your teeth. Think of sunscreen as your skin's umbrella.'By busting myths and adopting smarter routines—including gentle cleansing, oil control, and choosing the right kind of sunscreen for your skin type—you can protect your skin and keep it healthy, radiant, and resilient throughout the monsoon and beyond.- Ends