Dealing with acne-prone skin is never easy—even though you’ve figured out your skin, you don’t know what can trigger it to break out yet again. One specific trigger for me? The monsoons. While the romantic rainy weather is kind to my mind and soul, it doesn’t share the same feelings towards my skin. Along with the rain, monsoons bring along high levels of humidity, something that doesn’t fare well for your skin’s health. High humidity and rising temperatures often result in excess sweat, overproduction of sebum, and clogged pores, aka acne, blackheads, and whiteheads.
During this particular season, however, the right type of skincare products really did come to my rescue. Other than following a routine religiously, choosing one that suited my skin and helped counteract the effects of the monsoons on my skin. So, here are my top 11 picks for the best acne-care products you can dive into during the monsoons.
#1 – IS Clinical Cleansing Complex
A new one on the list, the IS Clinical Cleansing Complex, has become my skin saviour. The lightweight gel texture doesn’t lather as one would expect, but it leaves my skin feeling super balanced yet clean. Formulated with bio-nutrients, antioxidants, and resurfacing ingredients, it works for all skin types, especially those with oily, acne-prone skin like mine. I particularly like using this one at night.
#2 – Avene Cleanance Cleansing Gel
My all-time trusted cleanser; I have been loyal to this one for about six years! Again, the gel texture helps cleanse the skin thoroughly and helps control sebum levels too. I absolutely love how it feels on the skin—unlike some cleansers, it doesn’t strip the skin off its natural oils and make it seem all dry and taut.
#3 – Simple Purifying Gel Wash
If you’re a beginner, you might want to wishlist this cleanser. I would recommend starting your journey with this gel wash (I did too). It’s a mild cleanser that helps cleanse away dirt, oil, and makeup, leaving the skin feeling refreshed. It is formulated with thyme, zinc, and witch hazel, all of which are great ingredients to soothe and calm irritation. It is free of artificial fragrance and colour, and any other harsh ingredients, making it a great one for sensitive skin too!
#4 – The Ordinary Niacinamide Serum
Monsoons and excess oil go hand-in-hand, and to avoid your skin getting clogged, you need to call in oil control. This niacinamide serum has been part of my routine for four monsoons now, and it really does help me prep my skin for the season. Just remember, due to its water base, this particular niacinamide serum tends to pill a little once dry, so if you are wearing it under your makeup, just be wary of how you blend it. I’d recommend using it at night only if you’re experiencing that issue.
#5 – The Ordinary AHA BHA Peel
Most love it, some hate it, but you cannot ignore it — The Ordinary AHA/BHA Peel is probably one of the most raved-about products globally. A great exfoliator, especially for those with oily skin, this one helps slough away dead skin cells and brightens the skin. It also deep cleanses the pores and prevents them from getting clogged. I know those with oily skin like myself have found it to be effective, however, those with dry skin haven’t really seen much results.
Disclaimer: don’t overdo the exfoliation (once a week is fine), as you will be left with chemical burns, and always remember to wear sunscreen the next day.
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#6 – Mario Badescu Drying Lotion
This is my ultimate spot treatment! It doesn’t banish the blemishes overnight but works well over three to four days if used consistently. The combination of sulfur + calamine + zinc + salicylic acid helps shrink those pimples and dry them out eventually. Just make sure to let the solution dry on your face before you head to bed. The pinkish powder can transfer onto your pillow if it’s still wet. And always remember to use a clean Q-tip to pick up the product, as this prevents cross-contamination.
#7 – Avene Cleanance MAT Mattifying Emulsion
Another one for the books, the Avene Cleanance MAT Emulsion, has been my go-to for as long as I can remember. I started loving moisturisers, after I began using this. Excess oiliness during monsoons is one of my biggest problems, and this one hydrates without leaving a greasy residue, even hours later. Definitely a winner for me!
#8 – The Dearist Aloe Vera Gel
Believe it or not, this aloe vera gel is a saviour when my skin isn’t behaving its best. It’s so hydrating and cooling, especially when the temperatures are high. When it dries down, it leaves my skin moisturised, without a sticky or shiny residue. It’s perfect for when I need to give my skin a breather from heavier products.
#9 – Innisfree Bija Trouble Spot Essence
If you’re experiencing random breakouts and need a quick fix, this spot cream is the perfect solution. Let’s get real—nothing zaps those pimples overnight, but this gel helps you get there faster. It works effectively on spots and takes care of blemishes. Plus, it has a clear formula, making it great to apply even during the day.
#10 – Plum Green Tea Clear Face Mask
This one is a go-to for the days my skin requires that extra TLC! The green tea clay mask effectively helps reduce sebum, tackles any fresh breakouts, and makes your skin feel exfoliated and cleansed. It’s a great pick-me-up for when your skin is looking super dull. I always use it the night before I have an important event! Plus, it doesn’t feel like a thick, caked layer on your skin and washes off fairly easily.
#11 – AMINU Nordic Mud Mask
A new one on the shelves for me; this mud mask is nothing like a normal mud mask. It has a thin consistency and applies very smoothly onto the skin. It feels a little medicinal, to be honest. The granulated formula comprises quite a few muds rich in minerals, vitamins, and amino acids that help brighten the skin and calm inflammation. With consistent use, I noticed that it does help decrease dullness and fade away previous acne marks or blemishes. Due to its potent ingredients, it can smell a little strong and minty, so if you’re one to not like any sort of fragrance in your skincare, it might pose to be an issue. Other than that, this mask is…chef’s kiss.
