Monsoon Skin and Scalp Care in Kerala: A Dermatologist's Tips

Kerala's monsoon brings relief from the heat, but the constant dampness and humidity are hard on the skin, scalp and feet. Dermatology clinics see a rise in fungal infections, dandruff, acne flares and foot problems every rainy season. A few simple habits can prevent most of them.

Why the monsoon affects your skin

Fungi and bacteria grow well in warm, damp conditions. Wet clothes, damp hair, sweat that does not dry and skin folds that stay moist all provide the conditions they need. At the same time, humidity can make oily skin oilier, while rainwater and frequent washing can dry and irritate sensitive skin.

Common monsoon skin problems

• Fungal infections (ringworm or tinea) in the groin, underarms, waist and under the breasts
• Fungal infections between the toes and in the nails
• Dandruff and itchy scalp
• Acne and folliculitis (pimples around hair follicles)
• Prickly heat and sweat rashes
• Eczema flares and itchy skin
• Pitted, smelly skin on the soles from wet footwear

Skin care tips

• Dry yourself completely after bathing or getting wet, especially in skin folds and between the toes
• Change out of damp clothes and innerwear as soon as possible
• Wear loose, breathable cotton clothing
• Do not share towels, combs or clothes
• Use a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturiser; oily skin may only need a light gel
• Keep using sunscreen; UV rays pass through clouds

Scalp and hair care tips

• Do not tie up or cover wet hair for long periods
• Dry hair well, using a hair dryer on a cool setting if needed
• Wash the scalp more often if it gets oily, sweaty or itchy
• Avoid leaving heavy oils on the scalp for long periods if you are prone to dandruff
• Use an anti-dandruff shampoo as advised for flaky, itchy scalp

Persistent scaling may be scalp psoriasis rather than dandruff and needs a different treatment.

Foot care tips

• Wash and dry your feet thoroughly, including between the toes, after walking through rainwater
• Choose open, quick-drying footwear when it is raining
• Do not wear wet socks or shoes
• Keep nails short and clean
• People with diabetes should check their feet daily for cuts, blisters or infection

Avoid steroid creams for itchy rashes

One of the biggest problems we see is ringworm treated with over-the-counter creams that contain steroids. They may reduce itching for a few days, but they can make the fungal infection spread and become harder to treat. Read more about fungal infections and steroid creams.

When to see a dermatologist

• A rash that keeps spreading or comes back after stopping a cream
• Ring-shaped, itchy patches in several places or in several family members
• Nail thickening, discolouration or crumbling
• Painful pimples, boils or oozing
• Rashes in babies, elderly people or people with diabetes

Monsoon rash or itch that will not settle? Book an appointment or call +91 81398 82226.