The beauty of India comes from its many diverse aspects, not just in terms of culture, but in how each state has different types of climates within the country. Rajasthan is very dry and hot during the summer months; Mumbai has a humid and hot climate; Himachal has a much cooler, but also humid, climate. The body responds differently to these different environments, which is why it is important to have a good understanding of what type of skincare product you should use and how you should apply them, depending on where you live and work.

Understand the Indian Climate and Its Effects on Skin

There are many factors that determine how your skin will respond to weather. For example, the time of year influences how much oil will be produced by your skin during the summer season, compared to the rainy season (monsoon) or winter. You also may notice that temperatures in the winter tend to dry out your skin more than the hotter months. Therefore, there are differences between how you should use your skincare products throughout the year and how you must adjust the products you use depending on what season you are in.

Basic Guidelines: Washing, Toning and Conditioning

Keeping your skin healthy isn't complicated at all! There are only three main parts to an effective skincare routine: washing, toning, and conditioning (or moisturising) - all according to where you live! Your specific climate/weather conditions must determine what kind of products you use when washing and conditioning your skin.

Gentle Cleaning

In India, where the majority of the population lives in urban areas, pollution leads to many people experiencing their skin becoming dirty very easily. However, if you wash your skin too frequently or use products that contain harsh chemicals, such as sulfates, you will strip your skin of its natural protective oils. For cleansing, go with a gentle cleanser that doesn't dry your face out while cleansing the impurities from your skin. Look for ingredients such as turmeric, green tea or amino acids, rather than alcohols or sulfates, when purchasing a cleanser.

Choose your cleanser which will come with moisturising agents, such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which are ideal for cleansing your skin.

Use a Toner for Everyone - Choose Wisely!

Toners are NOT only for people who have oily skin! Using a toner on all skin types helps to prepare your skin to more effectively absorb moisturizers, as well as provide additional moisture to your skin and balance your skin's pH. The key is to use the correct type of toner.

If your skin is dry or sensitive, Use a toner with hyaluronic acid for greater hydration. If you have oily/acneic skin, a toner that is mildly exfoliating in action, containing substances such as niacinamide, may prove to be more beneficial.

Avoid toners containing alcohol; they will dehydrate your skin further, especially if you are living in a dry environment.

Moisturize According to Your Region

A smart trick? Use a lighter moisturizer in the morning and a richer one before bed — your skin repairs itself at night, and that’s when nourishment counts the most.

Moisturizers should be tailored according to where you live.

• Humid areas: you should use a gel-based or lightweight moisturizer for face. This way, you can moisturize without clogging your pores and feel bogged down by excess moisture.
  

• Dry regions: you should use a heavier cream or a ceramide moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and locked in with moisture.
  

• Cold climates: Go for thicker Day Night Cream formulas that nourish deeply and protect your skin barrier.
  

Sun Protection — 365 Days a Year

Lastly, if you're going to be in the sun, wear sunscreen every day, no matter the weather. Even though clouds may be blocking out a lot of direct sunlight, the sun still produces UV rays, which cause damage to collagen, accelerate the aging process, and lead to pigmentation changes. Wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or above with broad-spectrum protection is recommended in all instances. For those that have oily skin, gel-based sunscreens are best for them. However, for those with dry skin types, cream-based sunscreens work well. Reapplying your sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours while outdoors is also recommended if you want to prevent damage to your skin.

Exfoliate, but Gently

Skin in India is affected by dust, sweat, and pollution. In addition to exfoliating away dead skin cells, exfoliation also clears out clogged pores so that your skincare products can do their job effectively. For a brightening and texturizing effect use an alpha arbutin scrub once or twice weekly. However, be careful with over-exfoliating as this can cause microtears and sensitivities — especially if you are also using actives.

Balance Modern Science with Nature

The best skincare line combines science and nature. The common ingredients found in Indian skincare formulations include Aloe Vera, Turmeric, Sandalwood, Bakuchi and Green Tea – these provide nourishment and healing.

When selecting any natural formulation, ensure that it is 100% paraben-free, mineral oil-free, and sulphates-free. "Natural" does not necessarily mean "safe". Review the ingredients of the formulation, not just the claim on the label.

Match Your Lifestyle, Not Just the Weather

Active people who are out in the sun need to utilize protective and hydrating products — SPF, antioxidants, and barrier repair creams.

People who work in Air Conditioned environments may need to utilize heavier moisturizers and hydrating formulations to offset the drying effect of the air conditioning.

If you travel often, carry mini versions of your essentials — a gentle cleanser, toner with hyaluronic acid, and a Day Night Cream. Consistency matters more than quantity.

Smart Layering of Skincare

Due to India’s unique weather conditions, flexible skin care layering is a must. You need to start off with the lightest products in your routine and work your way through layers of product until you reach the heaviest; a basic layering sequence would consist of Cleanser, Toner, Serum (if applicable), Moisturiser, Sunscreen (daytime).

When going to bed, swap out the sunscreen for a Day or Night Cream, or a sleep time mask for night time recovery.

Listen to Your Skin, It Knows Best

The skin’s needs continue to evolve throughout your life due to changes in your diet, hormonal levels, stress levels, and many other reasons other than just weather. Be aware of how your skin feels after using skincare products. If your skin is tight, irritated, or over oily, chances are you should not use that product anymore.

When making changes to your skincare routine, only switch out one product at a time so you can see how that product worked on your skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Do I need to change my skincare products every season?
Your skin's hydration and oil levels change with the seasons, so it may be necessary to change your cleanser and/or moisturizers based on the season, as well.

Q2. Are natural products better for Indian skin?
They may be, especially when they have been formulated specifically for the Indian climate. However, just because a product is labelled "natural" does not mean it is safe for use; always check the ingredient list and conduct a patch test before use.

Q3. How often should I exfoliate in India's hot and humid climate?
About once or twice a week. Exfoliating too often can damage your skin barrier and cause sensitization.

Q4. What type of facial moisturizer should I use during the summer months?
A light, gel-based moisturizer usually works best. You should also look for one that contains aloe vera or hyaluronic acid for hydration without creating an oily appearance on your face.

Q5. Can I use an alpha arbutin scrub every day?
You should only use it two to three times a week. If used daily, it has the potential to dry out your skin and/or cause irritation.

Disclaimer

The information in this article is meant to be used for informational purposes only; it is not intended to act as a substitute for medical advice. Each individual's skin type is different; please consult your dermatologist prior to beginning or changing any skin care regimen, especially if you have specific conditions (e.g., eczema, rosacea, severe acne).