Why Your Skin Breaks Out More During Mumbai Monsoons – And What You Can Do
Monsoon in Mumbai brings cool showers and… sudden breakouts? Learn why your skin behaves differently during the rains, what triggers monsoon acne, and how to treat it with expert care.
Why Your Skin Breaks Out More During Mumbai Monsoons – And What You Can Do
Mumbai’s monsoon is a vibe – chai, pakode (fritters), rain-soaked roads, and that fresh petrichor smell. But if your skin starts acting up as soon as the clouds roll in, you’re not imagining things. Acne tends to flare up during this season, and it’s more common than you think.
If you’re googling “monsoon acne treatment”, you’re already one step ahead. Let’s break it down.
Why Does Acne Get Worse in Monsoon?
Here are 5 reasons why your skin may be breaking out more than usual during this rainy season:
- Humidity overload: The air is heavy with moisture, making your skin oilier; a perfect recipe for clogged pores.
- Sweat and pollution: Sticky sweat mixed with pollutants and dirt settles on your face.
- Pore-clogging bacteria: Warm, damp skin becomes a breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes).
- Wrong skincare: Using thick moisturizers or skipping sunscreen can throw your skin off balance.
- Touching your face more often: You may be wiping your face repeatedly, unknowingly transferring bacteria.
Types of Acne that Flare Up in Monsoon

Whiteheads & blackheads (comedonal acne)

Red, inflamed pimples (papules and pustules)

Deep, painful lumps (nodules or cystic acne – consult a dermatologist immediately)
Expert Tips for Monsoon Acne Treatment
The good news? Monsoon acne treatment is possible with the right steps. Here’s what actually works:
Use a gentle, non comedogenic cleanser
Avoid harsh face washes that strip your skin. Look for words like “oil-free” and “non-comedogenic” on labels.
Don’t skip moisturizer, just switch to a light one
Use a gel-based or water-based moisturizer to maintain hydration without clogging pores.
Sunscreen is still important
Yes, even when it’s cloudy. A lightweight, matte-finish sunscreen helps protect and balance your skin.
Avoid DIY scrubs and popping pimples
This can worsen inflammation and lead to post-acne marks.
See a dermatologist for resistant acne
In-clinic monsoon acne treatment options like:
Quick Do’s & Don’ts for Monsoon Acne
Do’s
Don’ts
- Skip skincare routines
- Use heavy creams or oils
- Stay in wet clothes
- Eat oily, spicy street food
- Wait till acne worsens
Final Thoughts
Your skin doesn’t hate the monsoon; it’s just reacting to the extra oil, humidity, and pollution. With simple swaps and a targeted skincare plan, your monsoon acne treatment journey can be smooth (and glowing).
If you’re in Powai, Mumbai, and need help, visit us at Dr. Reshma Ahuja’s Skin, Hair & Laser Clinic for a personalized consultation.
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