How to protect your skin in Dhaka's humid monsoon

Dhaka is a city that never slows down. Millions of people crowd its streets every day, braving honking traffic, endless queues, and the stubbornly humid air.

During the monsoon season, the city's chaos assumes a distinct character. The rains arrive in bursts, often unannounced, soaking commuters and leaving the air heavy with moisture.

The humidity makes the skin feel sticky, as sweat doesn't dry while pollution clings stubbornly to the face. For many, this combination turns daily life into a skincare challenge, especially for those with already sensitive or problematic skin.

The monsoon in Dhaka is a constant tug-of-war between dampness, heat, and sudden temperature drops. Rainwater often carries traces of pollutants from the city air, which can irritate the skin upon contact.

On days when the sun manages to break through the clouds, the heat can be oppressive, causing sweat to mix with dirt and clog pores. Understanding these conditions is the first step toward protecting your skin.

Oily skin

For people with oily skin, the monsoon can feel like a constant battle. Humidity tends to stimulate excess oil production, leading to shiny skin, clogged pores, and frequent breakouts.

Using a gentle, foaming, or gel-based cleanser twice a day can help regulate sebum production without stripping the skin.

Even oily skin needs hydration, so an oil-free, water-based moisturiser is essential to keep the skin balanced.

Dry skin

Let's discuss dry skin. Individuals with dry skin may find temporary relief in the monsoon's moisture-laden air. However, the combination of pollution and acidic rainwater can still cause redness and flakiness.

A mild, cream-based cleanser and a moisturiser rich in ceramides or glycerin can help lock in hydration. For combination skin, balance is key — controlling oil in the T-zone while keeping the cheeks and jawline moisturised requires a lightweight gel during the day and a richer cream at night.

The products you choose matter just as much as how you use them. Certain ingredients excel during the monsoon months.

Hyaluronic acid is a powerful hydrator that works without making the skin greasy.

Niacinamide helps control oil and strengthens the skin's protective barrier, while salicylic acid keeps pores clear and reduces breakouts.

Vitamin C remains a valuable addition for its brightening and pollution-fighting properties. However, it should always be paired with sunscreen. For calming irritation, aloe vera or green tea extracts can work wonders, especially after being caught in the rain or spending long hours outdoors.

A practical monsoon skincare routine in Dhaka should begin with a morning cleanse to remove overnight oil and sweat.

An antioxidant serum can follow this to defend against environmental damage, a lightweight moisturiser to keep the skin hydrated, and a layer of sunscreen with at least SPF 30 — even on cloudy days, ultraviolet rays can penetrate and harm the skin.

At night, cleansing is even more critical. If you have been outside for a long time, double cleansing — first with an oil-based cleanser to remove grime, then with a gentle foaming wash — can help prevent clogged pores.

A treatment serum suited to your skin's needs, whether for acne control or hydration, should be applied before finishing with a slightly more decadent night cream to help the skin repair itself as you sleep.

Lifestyle choices also play a role in maintaining healthy skin during this season.

Wearing heavy makeup in Dhaka's humid monsoon often leads to clogged pores and breakouts, so lighter, non-comedogenic products are preferable.

Staying hydrated is vital, as water intake directly affects the skin's moisture balance. After being caught in the rain, washing your face with clean water as soon as possible can prevent pollutants from lingering on the skin. Carrying a slight face mist or gentle wipes can help refresh the skin during long commutes or periods of traffic congestion. And while the temptation to touch or wipe your face is strong, especially when sweating, it's best to avoid it to reduce the transfer of bacteria and dirt.

Dhaka's monsoon is a season of contradictions — beautiful in its sudden downpours and earthy scents, yet harsh on the skin in its unpredictable mood swings. It is not about escaping the rain or the humidity, but about preparing for them. With a consistent, thoughtful routine tailored to your skin type and the city's changing weather, you can protect your skin from the season's challenges and enjoy the rains without worry. After all, skincare in the monsoon is not a luxury in Dhaka; it is a necessary form of self-care, a way to carry a little calm and confidence through the city's daily storms.