Oily Skin Care in Monsoon: Best Routine, Remedies & What to Avoid

The monsoon season is a welcome relief after months of heat, but if you have oily skin, it can also bring new challenges. The damp, sticky air increases sweat and sebum production, making your face look shinier and more prone to acne, clogged pores, and breakouts.

If your skin feels greasy all day and your regular skincare routine isn’t helping, this guide is for you. Let’s dive into how you can take care of oily skin during the monsoon, what products or natural remedies to use, and what to avoid for a healthy, matte complexion.

Why Oily Skin Gets Worse During the Monsoon

High humidity during monsoon weather encourages the sebaceous glands to release more oil. This leads to:

• Clogged pores from a mix of oil, sweat, and dirt

• An overly shiny appearance, especially around the nose, forehead, and chin

• Increased chances of acne and skin irritation

This excess oil doesn’t mean your skin is hydrated — it usually signals a lack of proper balance. The solution is not to strip the oil away but to manage it smartly.

Ideal Daily Skincare Routine for Oily Skin in Monsoon

Morning Routine

1. Mild Face Wash

   Use a gel or foaming cleanser with ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil to clean the pores and remove oil without over-drying your skin.

2. Alcohol-Free TonerToning helps tighten enlarged pores and reduce oil production. Go for toners with witch hazel, rose water, or niacinamide — all gentle yet effective on oily skin.

3. Light MoisturizerOily skin still needs moisture! Choose a gel-based or water-based moisturizer with ingredients like aloe vera or green tea. These hydrate without feeling greasy.

4. Oil-Free SunscreenAlways use sunscreen — even on cloudy days. Look for matte-finish or gel sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that won’t clog your pores or leave a shiny residue.

Night Routine

1. Double Cleanse (if wearing makeup or sunscreen)First, use micellar water or an oil-free remover to clean your face. Follow it up with your regular cleanser.

2. Oil-Control SerumSerums with niacinamide, salicylic acid, or vitamin C help manage breakouts and oiliness. Apply after cleansing and before moisturizing.

3. Spot Treatments for AcneDab a bit of benzoyl peroxide or tea tree oil on pimples to calm inflammation overnight.

4. Light Night Gel or MoisturizerA gel-based night cream or plain aloe vera gel keeps your skin nourished while keeping oil in check.

Weekly Skincare Tips

1. Clay Mask (1–2 Times a Week)Clay masks like Fuller’s earth (Multani mitti), charcoal, or bentonite clay help draw out oil and purify the skin.

2. Gentle Exfoliation (Once a Week)Exfoliate using a mild scrub to remove dead skin cells and reduce the risk of clogged pores. Over-scrubbing can cause irritation and more oil, so be gentle.

Home Remedies to Control Oily Skin Naturally

If you prefer natural alternatives, here are a few simple face packs to try:

Multani Mitti & Rose Water

• Mix one tablespoon of Fuller’s earth with enough rose water to make a smooth paste.

• Apply on your face, leave it for 15 minutes, and wash off with cool water.

• This absorbs excess oil and refreshes your skin.

Aloe Vera & Tea Tree Oil

• Take a spoon of fresh aloe vera gel and mix 2 drops of tea tree oil.

• Apply it before bed to soothe acne and balance sebum.

Tomato Juice Toner

• Tomatoes are rich in natural acids that control oil and shrink pores.

• Apply fresh tomato juice for 10–15 minutes, then rinse off.

Lemon & Honey Pack

• Mix a few drops of lemon juice with a teaspoon of honey.

• Apply for 10 minutes to reduce shine and kill bacteria.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Monsoon Skincare

• Skipping Moisturizer: Dehydrated skin often produces more oil. A lightweight gel moisturizer helps balance it.

• Using Harsh Cleansers: Stripping all oil can cause your skin to overcompensate.

• Heavy Creams & Makeup: Thick products can clog pores and make skin look oilier.

• Touching Your Face Often: Your hands carry bacteria that can lead to breakouts.

• Frequent Exfoliation: Scrubbing more than once a week can damage your skin’s barrier.

Lifestyle Tips to Support Your Skincare Routine  

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within.

• Eat Clean: Limit oily, spicy foods that can trigger oil production.

• Keep Pillowcases Clean: Change them every few days to avoid bacteria buildup.

• Use Blotting Paper: Carry blotting paper in your bag for quick touch-ups.

• Avoid Humid Spaces: Limit time in steamy environments like kitchens or crowded rooms.

Managing oily skin during the monsoon isn’t about drying it out — it’s about achieving the right hydration-oil balance. The weather might be sticky, but your skin doesn’t have to be. Focus on using lightweight, oil-free, and soothing skincare products that respect your skin’s needs.

Stick to a consistent routine, listen to what your skin tells you, and you’ll see a clear difference — even in the dampest days of the season.