Last Updated on July 16, 2025 by Sezia
Don’t Skip Sunscreen Just Because It’s Pouring ☔️🌞
Picture this: you’re skipping town to chase epic waterfalls and monsoon splashes, thinking the clouds have your back—and then you end up looking like a tomato 🔥. Sounds crazy, right? But here’s the kicker: rainy days are sneaky UV days. Dermatologist Dr. Sabrina Mukhatab from The Daily Star says you need strong sunscreen even when it’s bucketing down. Buckle up, because I’m about to blow your mind on why sunscreen in the monsoon isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s non-negotiable.
“UV rays can penetrate clouds up to 80%, so you’re not as safe as you think.” – Dr. Sabrina Mukhatab
1. The Monsoon UV Myth, Debunked
Everybody loves a gloomy sky—no harsh sun, no squinting, right? Wrong. Those thick clouds might feel like built-in sunshades, but:
- UVA rays (aging rays) slice through clouds like butter.
- UVB rays (burning rays) still reflect off wet surfaces, puddles and even your bright umbrella.
- High humidity + heat = sweat and oil production, priming your face for clogged pores and hyperpigmentation.
Why Cloudy ≠ Safe
Think of UVA as that persistent friend’s playlist you can’t turn off—it’s everywhere. The only real armor? A broad-spectrum, high-SPF sunscreen.
2. Picking Your Monsoon Sunscreen: What to Look For
All sunscreens aren’t created equal. Here’s your quick-start guide:
- Broad-Spectrum Protection: Shields you from UVA & UVB.
- SPF 50+: More is better, especially when clouds lie.
- Water-Resistant Formula: Keeps you protected through sweat, showers and surprise downpours.
- Non-Comedogenic & Lightweight: Avoids breakouts in high humidity.
Pro Tip: Gel-based sunscreens often feel less sticky. If you love that silky finish, try one of these:
Shop Broad-Spectrum Sunscreens
3. The Ultimate Monsoon Sunscreen Routine
Stop winging it. This simple 5-step plan keeps you radiant, rain or shine:
- Cleanse: Use a gentle gel wash to remove oil and grime.
- Hydrate: Lightweight, water-based moisturizer.
- Sunscreen: At least a nickel-size dollop for your face, plus more for exposed limbs.
- Reapply: Every 2–3 hours, especially after heavy rain or excessive sweat.
- Post-Monsoon Care: Exfoliate gently to avoid buildup, then hydrate deeply.
Quick Tutorial: Proper Sunscreen Application
- Dot sunscreen on forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, neck.
- Massage in gentle upward strokes—don’t miss the ears!
- Wait 15 minutes before heading out for full protection.
- Carry a travel-friendly sunscreen stick in your bag for instant touch-ups.
4. Battling Monsoon Skin Woes Beyond UV
Monsoon’s not just about UV—fungal acne and breakouts love this season too. Here’s the hack:
- Spot Treatment: Salicylic acid or zinc-based creams.
- Anti-Fungal Care: If you’re prone to fungal acne, check out this targeted range:
5. Real Talk: Mistakes to Avoid
We all have those “oops” moments:
- Using Last Season’s SPF: Sunscreen loses potency after its expiry.
- Relying on Makeup SPF: Foundation SPF is too low—never skip dedicated sunblock.
- Forgetting Hidden Spots: Lips, eyelids and hands deserve love, too.
6. FAQs From Fellow Monsoon Warriors
Q: Do I need sunscreen indoors during monsoon?
A: Yes! UVA penetrates windows. Apply even if you’re chilling by the window or working from home.
Q: What if my sunscreen pills with my moisturizer?
A: Layering order matters—moisturizer first, let it absorb, then sunscreen. Or try a gel lotion.
7. Wrapping It Up: Your Monsoon Glow Checklist ✅
Here’s your quick pre-rain skincare kit:
- Gel cleanser
- Water-based moisturizer
- High-SPF, broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen
- Travel-size sunscreen stick
- Anti-fungal spot treatment (if needed)
And there you have it—the secret recipe for staying sun-safe, fungal-free, and glow-ready all monsoon long. No more surprise sunburns or random breakouts. You’ve got this!
Stay radiant, rain or shine. 🌧️🌈