How To Take Care Of Oily Skin in Monsoon?

Updated on: 25th June, 2025

The increased humidity during this season can wreak havoc on your skin, causing excessive oil production, breakouts, and even fungal infections. If this feels all too familiar, don’t worry—we have the perfect guide to help you keep your skin balanced and healthy throughout the monsoon. 

This blog will not only help you understand why these oily skin issues arise during the rainy season but also provide a step-by-step skincare routine that works. Plus, we’ve included expert advice from a Skin Specialist to ensure you’re in trusted hands. 

Oily Skin 

Oily skin is the result of overactive sebaceous glands producing excess sebum, the oil that keeps your skin naturally moisturized. While sebum plays an important role in protecting your skin, too much can lead to a greasy complexion, enlarged pores, and acne. During monsoon, the added humidity amplifies this problem by causing your sebaceous glands to go into overdrive. 

Why Does Oily Skin Become Worse in Humid Conditions? 

Monsoon humidity increases the moisture levels in the air, further disrupting your skin’s oil balance. Sweat during this time can also mix with sebum, clogging your pores and creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. This is why oily skin requires extra care and attention during the rainy season. 

Can You Control Oily Skin?

If left unmanaged, oily skin can lead to several skin-related woes during monsoon. Here are a few common issues to watch out for: 

• Acne Breakouts 

High humidity causes excess sweating, which clogs pores along with sebum and triggers Acne. Combine that with the bacteria that thrive in moisture, and breakouts become a regular occurrence.

• Fungal Infections 

The monsoon creates the ideal environment for fungal infections, especially in oily areas like the T-zone, under the nose, and on the forehead. The damp weather allows yeast and bacteria to flourish. 

• Excess Shine and Greasiness 

The combination of sweat and heightened oil production makes your skin feel constantly greasy, which tends to dull your complexion and make makeup less durable.

To combat these issues and keep your skin healthy, following the right skincare routine is essential. Below is a simple yet effective routine tailored to oily skin during the monsoon season. 

1. Cleansing 

Opt for a gentle gel-based or foam-based cleanser that can effectively remove dirt, sebum, and sweat without stripping your skin of essential moisture. Look for cleansers with salicylic acid or tea tree oil to reduce acne and bacteria build-up. Cleanse your face twice a day to maintain a fresh and oil-free complexion. 

2. Toning 

Toners help to shrink pores and control excess oil production. Choose an alcohol-free toner containing ingredients like witch hazel, rose water, or green tea. This will not only calm your skin but also prepare it for further treatment by rebalancing your skin’s pH levels. 

3. Moisturizing 

Many people with oily skin believe skipping moisturiser is a good idea. However, this can make your skin overcompensate by producing more oil. Instead, use a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera. 

4. Sunscreen 

Rain or shine, sunscreen is non-negotiable. The UV rays still penetrate through clouds, making your skin prone to damage and premature ageing. Go for a non-comedogenic, matte-finish sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Gel-based formulations work best for oily skin. 

5. Weekly Exfoliation 

To avoid clogged pores and dead skin build-up, exfoliate once or twice a week with a mild scrub. Look for products containing AHAs or BHAs, as they gently remove dead cells and prevent blackheads and whiteheads. 

6. Face Masks 

Include clay-based masks in your weekly routine to control excess oil and detoxify your skin. Ingredients like kaolin clay or activated charcoal work wonders for oily and acne-prone skin.

We reached out to dermatologists for advice on keeping oily skin at bay during monsoon. Here’s what they recommend:

• Hydration is Key 

“Even in humid conditions, your skin needs hydration. Avoid heavy creams, and instead rely on water-based products to keep your skin hydrated without making it greasy,” 

• Don’t Overwash 

“While it might feel tempting, overwashing your face can strip natural oils, causing your skin to produce even more sebum. Stick to cleansing twice a day,”

• Avoid Makeup Overload 

“When your skin feels greasy, try to minimise the use of heavy makeup. If you must, use non-comedogenic makeup products that won’t clog your pores,”