Introduction: Why Seasonal Changes Affect Skin and Hair

India’s diverse climate throws your skin and hair new challenges each season. From the scorching summer sun to dry winters and humid monsoons, these environmental shifts impact your skin barrier and hair structure.

At InUrSkn, we always emphasize: while consistency is key, seasonal flexibility is crucial. Here’s how you can evolve your skincare and haircare routine for healthier results—15 expert tips included.

How Weather Affects Your Skin and Hair

Skin Changes Across Seasons

Summer: More sweat, oil, and UV exposure → acne, pigmentation.
Winter: Low humidity → dry, flaky skin, eczema flares.
Monsoon: High humidity → clogged pores, fungal infections.
Spring/Autumn: Transitional seasons → increased sensitivity.

Hair Changes Across Seasons

Humidity (monsoon/summer): Frizz, greasy scalp.

Dryness (winter): Brittle, breakage-prone hair.

Seasonal hair fall: Common during autumn, due to scalp microbiome shifts and lower vitamin D.

Spring Care Tips (Feb–Mar)

Gentle Skin Exfoliation & Light Moisturising
→ Use mild AHA-based exfoliators 1–2x weekly.
→ Switch to gel or water-based moisturisers—great for changing weather.
Hair & Scalp Detox
→ Use a clarifying shampoo weekly.
→ Try natural aloe vera or hibiscus masks to strengthen your scalp.

Summer Survival Guide (Apr–Jun)

Prioritize Sun Protection
→ Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ every 3–4 hours.
→ Use hats, scarves, and sunglasses for added defense.
Control Breakouts & Oily Scalp
→ Cleanse with salicylic acid or niacinamide-based face washes.
→ Wash hair more frequently if it gets sweaty or oily.

Monsoon Routine (Jul–Sep)

Prevent Fungal Infections
→ Use ketoconazole or zinc pyrithione shampoos.
→ Moisturize with lightweight, non-comedogenic gels to avoid fungal acne.
Balance Oil Without Overdrying
→ Use blotting papers or oil-control serums.
→ Continue using humectants like hyaluronic acid, even if your skin feels oily.

Post-Monsoon Repair (Oct–Nov)

Restore Hydration & Skin Barrier
→ Use ceramide and squalane (hydrating agents) – based moisturisers.
→ Fade post-summer pigmentation with azelaic or kojic acid serums.

8. Strengthen Hair Roots
→ Use protein-rich conditioners and peptide serums.
→ Consider PRP or scalp therapies to repair monsoon damage.

Winter Wonders (Dec–Jan)

Deep Moisturisation is Key
→ Look for moisturisers with glycerin, shea butter, urea, or lactic acid.
→ Layer with facial oils to seal in hydration.
Nourish Scalp & Hair
→ Use a moisturising hair mask or deep conditioner once a week to combat dryness.
→ Avoid hot water—use lukewarm water instead.

Year-Round Skincare Essentials

Always Double-Cleanse After Sunscreen
Even in winter, double cleansing ensures no SPF buildup.
Exfoliate 1–2 Times a Week, No More
Over-exfoliating damages the skin barrier, especially in dry seasons.
Adjust Your Retinol Strength Seasonally
Don’t skip it—just lower strength in dry months and use SPF in summer.
Change Your Pillowcase & Towel Routine

Switch to cotton or silk pillowcases and change them every 2–3 days, especially during summer and monsoon.
Use a separate towel for your face and hair to avoid bacterial transfer.
In humid seasons, ensure towels dry completely to prevent fungal buildup that can affect both skin and scalp.

Tailor Your Diet to the Season

Summer: Coconut water, fresh fruits, mint.
Winter: Ghee, nuts, omega-3s.
Monsoon: Avoid street food; add turmeric, ginger.
Year-round: Stay hydrated, manage stress, sleep well.

Products That Work Across All Seasons

Look for:

Non-comedogenic moisturisers with hyaluronic acid
Broad-spectrum sunscreens with zinc oxide
Hair serums with peptides or amino acids

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping sunscreen in winter
Using the same products all year
Overwashing hair during monsoon
Ignoring skin hydration due to oiliness
Not adjusting actives with season changes

Expert Guidance, All Year Long

If you’re unsure how to customize your skincare or haircare routine seasonally, consulting a qualified dermatologist can make all the difference. At InUrSkn, Dr. Sejal Saheta brings over a decade of experience in treating skin and hair concerns across all age groups and climates. Her personalized, science-backed approach ensures that your regimen evolves with the seasons—without damaging your skin barrier or scalp health. Whether it’s monsoon acne or winter dryness, Dr. Sejal’s care plans are tailored for long-term results you can see and feel.

Conclusion

Tuning your skin and haircare to the rhythm of the seasons isn’t just smart—it’s transformative. At InUrSkn, we’ve seen how small, seasonal adjustments lead to long-term health and radiance. Listen to your skin and scalp—they always speak.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does my skin feel oily but dehydrated during the monsoon?

High humidity can make your skin look greasy, but you may still be lacking internal hydration. Using lightweight moisturisers with humectants like hyaluronic acid helps maintain balance without clogging pores.

2. How should men and women adapt their hair care routine during the monsoon?

Both men and women face frizz, greasiness, and scalp fungal issues during humid months. To counteract:

Shampoo 2–3 times/week (or daily for oily scalps), focusing on the scalp
Use anti-fungal shampoos (ketoconazole or zinc pyrithione) to ward off infections
Air-dry or towel-dry hair completely before styling to prevent mildew and damage

3. Is it necessary to wear sunscreen on cloudy or winter days?

Yes. Up to 80% of UV rays still reach your skin on cloudy days. Winter sun exposure can also cause long-term pigmentation and premature ageing. A broad-spectrum SPF is essential year-round.

4.How can I create a skin care routine for men that works year-round?

A basic skin routine for men should adapt to seasonal changes:

Cleanse twice daily, morning and night
Apply SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
Use a light moisturiser in summer/monsoon, and richer creams with ceramides or urea in winter
Exfoliate weekly and include season-based actives (e.g., niacinamide in summer, retinoids in fall)

5.Why do experts recommend modifying your hair care routine for men vs women?

Hair needs depend on length, scalp type, and styling habits. Key differences:

Men with short hair benefit from daily scalp-focused cleansing
Women with longer hair should use conditioner only on lengths and treat ends regularly

Both genders should include scalp care—like gentle exfoliation and hydration—for healthier growth

6.What seasonal skin care routine does a dermatologist recommend for oily, sensitive Indian skin?

A derm-approved seasonal regimen for Indian skin includes:

Double cleanse especially post-sunscreen under humid conditions
Use light, hydrating serums like hyaluronic acid in monsoon
Switch to oil-free moisturisers and lightweight SPF
Avoid heavy makeup and cleansing skin regularly to prevent breakouts and pigmentation