Month of July brings with it the much awaited rain and cool winds. And after going through the sweltering heat, with temperatures soaring as high as 47 degrees, drizzling rain brings relief to the sun-tanned skin. But that's not all. Come monsoon and the humidity levels increase, giving rise to myriad skin problems.With increased humidity and heat, our skin becomes more prone to fungal or bacterial infections. Though most of these problems are not serious but the unwillingness to visit a dermatologist can increase the risk and severity of the condition.
Dr Chiranjiv Chhabra, one of the leading dermatologists in India andMonika Sood, MD of TBC by nature has rolled out some easy solutions for you to try out if you come across any of the humidity related problem.
Fungal infections like ring worm infection, acne, eczema and folliculitis are common during monssons. The cause of such infections is mostly bacterial or fungal due to excessive sweating, heat, photo-toxic effects of the sun and of course, humidity.
Solution: Apply fresh methi paste to the affected area or you can also use turmeric paste to get rid of the fungal infection. To make the paste, take 1-3 tsp of turmeric powder, two table spoon of curd and one table spoon of gram floor. Make a smooth paste and apply it on face for 15 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.
Monsoon makes your oil secreting glands hyperactive. It leads to accumulation of dust and bacterial growth that leads to skin problems like blackheads, whiteheads and pimples. People with normal to dry skin, witness more dryness, as moisture of the skin is hindered due to humidity and heat.
Solution: In order to ensure that the oil secretion is under control, use an alcohol free PH neutralizing face wash and wash your face atleast 3 times a day. Also, you can prepare a face pack made of two tablespoon of curd, two drops of lavender oil and one tablespoon of aloevera gel. Apply this pack and wash it after 20 minutes. Curd helps in d-tan and removes blemishes. Aloevera smoothens skin and lavender oil boosts rejuvenation.
Excessive hair fall and increased dandruff are also some of the major concerns during monsoon. Humidity and heat results in weakening of hair follicles, resulting in hairfall. Leaving the scalp wet for a long time facilitates growth of dandruff. Whereas, dandruff flakes can fall on the face and aggravate acne.
Solution: Dryness can increase manifolds due to constant sweat, which, in turn makes the scalp void of natural oils. Apply lemon juice to the scalp and massage and leave it for 5 minutes. Shampoo and wash your hair with cold water. You will definitely see results in a few days.
All the above stated skin problems are common in cities such as Delhi, where pollution levels are unreasonably high and monsoon marks as the most vulnerable time for our skin and hair.