5 Skincare Ingredients to Avoid in the Rainy Season—And What to Use Instead

Humidity, stickiness, and unexpected skin breakouts—the rainy season is not always kind to our skin. According to a 2024 Mintel survey on consumer skincare habits in Asia, more than 63% of women reported an increase in acne, oiliness, or fungal infections during the monsoon months. While we often blame the weather, many times the real culprit lies in our vanity—specifically, the wrong skincare ingredients.

Here are five skincare ingredients you should avoid during the rainy season—and their healthier alternatives.

1. Heavy Mineral Oils

Mineral oils and petroleum jelly tend to clog pores in humid weather. They trap sweat, dirt, and sebum, leading to acne and blackheads.
Instead use: Lightweight plant-based oils like jojoba or squalane. They hydrate without suffocating the skin and mimic natural sebum, making them perfect for the season.

Product References:

• The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane (lightweight, non-comedogenic).

• Kama Ayurveda Organic Jojoba Oil (great for balancing oily skin).

2. Thick Silicones

While silicones (like dimethicone) give that silky smooth finish, during the monsoon they act like a plastic wrap over the skin. This increases sweat build-up and fungal infections, especially around the T-zone.
Instead use: Aloe vera gel or niacinamide-based serums. They soothe, balance oil production, and keep the skin breathable.

Product Reference: 

• Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Serum (oil-control + brightening).

• Innisfree Aloe Revital Soothing Gel (hydrating, calming, affordable).

3. Alcohol-Based Toners

High-alcohol toners strip away natural oils, leaving your skin dry on the surface but overproducing oil underneath. The result? Oily yet dehydrated skin.
Instead use: Rose water or green tea toners. According to a 2023 Journal of Dermatological Science study, green tea polyphenols effectively reduce sebum production while calming inflammation.

Product Reference: 

• Forest Essentials Pure Rosewater Facial Toner (luxury Ayurvedic option).

• Plum Green Tea Alcohol-Free Toner (dermatologist-loved for oily/combination skin).

4. Harsh Physical Exfoliants

Scrubs with walnut or apricot shells can cause micro-tears. In a season when skin is already more sensitive due to fluctuating humidity, this can trigger redness and fungal flare-ups.
Instead use: Gentle chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or mandelic acid (AHA). They slough off dead skin cells without scratching the surface and are safe even for sensitive skin.

Product Reference: 

• Paula’s Choice 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant (Glycolic + Lactic Acid) (gentle yet effective).

• The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA(ideal for beginners & sensitive skin).

5. Heavy Cream-Based Moisturizers

That thick night cream you swore by in winter might now be the reason behind clogged pores. During monsoon, skin needs hydration—not heaviness.
Instead use: Gel-based moisturizers with hyaluronic acid. A survey by Dermstore in 2023 found that women using water-based gels during humid months reported 45% fewer breakouts compared to cream users.

Product Reference: 

• Clinique Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator (cult favorite for humid weather).

• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel (affordable, dermatologist-recommended).

Wrapping Up

The rainy season is all about balance—hydrating without overloading, cleansing without stripping. By avoiding heavy, pore-clogging ingredients and switching to lightweight, breathable alternatives, you can enjoy the monsoon glow without the breakouts. Remember, your skincare routine should change with the weather, just like your wardrobe.