Should You Skip Sunscreen in Monsoon? Experts Say No

Should You Skip Sunscreen in Monsoon? Experts Say No

Monsoon season brings relief from the scorching heat—but don’t let the cloudy skies fool you. With cooler weather and overcast days, it might seem harmless to skip your sunscreen, especially when the sun isn’t glaring down. But dermatologists agree: UV rays don’t take a rain check.

Even when it’s cloudy or raining, up to 80% of UV rays can still reach your skin, causing damage like premature aging, pigmentation, and even skin cancer. Skipping sunscreen in the monsoon? That’s a skincare mistake you’ll want to avoid.

In this guide, we’ll break down why sunscreen is non-negotiable year-round, how to choose the best formula for humid weather, and top tips for reapplying without the mess. Rain or shine, your skin deserves protection—let’s get into it!

Why the Monsoon Myth Exists

It’s easy to see why people think sunscreen isn’t needed during monsoon. The sun’s barely visible, the weather’s humid, and those dark clouds feel like a natural shield. Plus, who wants to layer on another product when your skin already feels sticky?

But here’s the truth: clouds don’t block the sun’s harmful rays as much as you think. According to dermatologists, up to 80% of UV rays can still sneak through cloud cover, hitting your skin and causing damage.

So, let’s break down why you need to keep that SPF in your routine.

Why the Monsoon Myth Exists

It’s easy to see why people think sunscreen isn’t needed during monsoon. The sun’s barely visible, the weather’s humid, and those dark clouds feel like a natural shield. Plus, who wants to layer on another product when your skin already feels sticky?

But here’s the truth: clouds don’t block the sun’s harmful rays as much as you think. According to dermatologists, up to 80% of UV rays can still sneak through cloud cover, hitting your skin and causing damage.

So, let’s break down why you need to keep that SPF in your routine.

Why You Shouldn’t Skip Sunscreen in Monsoon

1. UV Rays Don’t Take a Rainy Day Off

Even on cloudy or rainy days, ultraviolet (UV) rays—both UVA and UVB—can penetrate clouds and reach your skin. UVA rays, which cause premature ageing like wrinkles and dark spots, are especially sneaky, passing through clouds and even glass windows. UVB rays, responsible for sunburn, are also present, though slightly less intense. These rays can lead to tanning, hyperpigmentation, and an increased risk of skin cancer, no matter the weather.

• What You’ll Notice: Over time, skipping sunscreen can lead to dark spots, uneven skin tone, or fine lines that creep up sooner than expected.
• Expert Tip: Dr. Neha Sharma, a dermatologist, emphasizes, “UV rays are the most important extrinsic cause of skin ageing. They easily pass through clouds in monsoon season and hit our skin.”

2. Reflective Surfaces Amp Up UV Exposure

Monsoon brings wet roads, puddles, and shiny surfaces that act like mirrors, reflecting UV rays and intensifying their effect on your skin. This means you could be getting a double dose of UV exposure, even if it’s pouring outside.

• What You’ll Notice: Increased tanning or redness, especially if you’re out in the rain for a while.
• Expert Tip: Dr. Natasha Shetty, a Dermatologist, advises, “Ensure you use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen to combat the effects of these harmful rays.”

3. Humidity Makes Skin More Vulnerable

The high humidity during monsoon can make your skin feel oilier or more sensitive, especially if you’re prone to acne or conditions like rosacea. UV exposure on sensitive skin can worsen inflammation, trigger breakouts, or cause irritation. Sunscreen acts as a protective barrier, shielding your skin from both UV rays and environmental pollutants.

• What You’ll Notice: More breakouts, redness, or a greasy feel if your skin’s not protected.
• Expert Tip: “Sunscreen preserves the skin’s natural moisture and barrier function, preventing dryness and dehydration,” says Dr. Natasha Vijayendran, a Dermatologist.

4. Prevents Long-Term Damage

Skipping sunscreen during monsoon might not show immediate effects, but the damage adds up. UV rays break down collagen and elastin, leading to sagging skin and wrinkles. They also trigger excess melanin production, causing dark spots and uneven tone. Regular sunscreen use helps fight premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and even reduces the risk of skin cancer.

• What You’ll Notice: Dark patches, dullness, or early signs of ageing over time.
• Expert Tip: “Sunscreen controls excess melanin production, preventing tanning and dark spots during the humid monsoon season,” notes a skincare expert from iDiva.

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Monsoon

Not all sunscreens are created equal, especially in the humid, rainy monsoon season. Here’s how to pick one that works for you:

• Go Broad-Spectrum: Choose a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for “broad-spectrum” on the label and an SPF of 30 or higher. A PA+++ or PA++++ rating means extra UVA protection.
• Pick Water-Resistant Formulas: Rain and sweat can wash off sunscreen, so opt for a water-resistant one. Reapply every 2-3 hours if you’re outdoors, sweating, or caught in a downpour.
• Match Your Skin Type:
  • Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Gel-based or matte sunscreens won’t clog pores or feel greasy. Avoid comedogenic ingredients like oxybenzone.
  • Dry/Sensitive Skin: Look for hydrating sunscreens with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides, such as Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50.
  • Combination Skin: Lightweight, non-greasy formulas.
• Consider Tinted Options: Tinted sunscreens blur imperfections and even out skin tone while protecting. They’re great for a no-makeup monsoon look.
• Check Ingredients: Physical sunscreens (with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) reflect UV rays and are gentler for sensitive skin. Chemical sunscreens (with octinoxate or avobenzone) absorb rays but may feel lighter.

How to Use Sunscreen Effectively in Monsoon

• Apply Enough: Use about two finger-lengths (1/4 teaspoon) for your face and neck, and a shot glass worth for your body. Don’t forget ears, hands, and other exposed areas.
• Time It Right: Apply sunscreen 15–30 minutes before going outside to let it absorb. If using a chemical sunscreen, this is especially important for effectiveness.
• Reapply Often: Reapply every 2–3 hours if you’re outdoors, or immediately after sweating, swimming, or getting wet. Even water-resistant sunscreens lose strength over time.
• Use Indoors Too: UV rays can sneak through windows, so apply sunscreen even if you’re staying inside near glass.
• Pair with Other Protection: Wear hats, sunglasses, or loose clothing for extra defence, especially during peak UV hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Bonus Monsoon Skincare Tips

• Cleanse Gently: Use a mild face wash to remove dirt and oil without stripping your skin, especially in humid weather. Check out my previous posts for face wash tips!
• Moisturize Lightly: Opt for a gel-based moisturizer to hydrate without feeling heavy.
• Avoid Harsh Products: Skip alcohol-based toners or abrasive exfoliants that can irritate humid, sensitive skin.
• Stay Consistent: Even on gloomy days, stick to your routine—cleanse, moisturize, and top with sunscreen for a healthy glow.

Final Thoughts

Monsoon might make you feel like sunscreen is optional, but experts agree: it’s a non-negotiable step for healthy, radiant skin. UV rays don’t take a break, and neither should your SPF. By choosing a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen suited to your skin type and applying it correctly, you’ll protect your skin from ageing, dark spots, and damage while keeping that monsoon glow on point.