High humidity levels can make sunscreen feel greasy or sticky, but dermatologists agree: skipping sunscreen is the biggest skincare mistake you can make. Here’s how skin experts recommend protecting your skin without the icky feeling.
What the Skin Experts Say
“Choose Sunscreen According to Your Skin Type”
– Dr. Rashmi Shetty, Dermatologist, Mumbai
“In humid weather, skin tends to be oilier. Use a gel-based or water-based sunscreen that’s non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, look for ingredients like zinc oxide or niacinamide to soothe inflammation.”
Pro Tip: Avoid thick cream sunscreens unless you have dry skin.
“Go for a Matte Finish or Powder Sunscreen”
– Dr. Kiran Sethi, Skin & Aesthetics Expert, Delhi
“Humidity can make your skin shiny. Pick sunscreens that offer a matte finish. If you wear makeup, go for a powder sunscreen to control oil and allow easy reapplication.”
Try: Mineral SPF powders or matte gel sunscreens.
“Reapply Every 3 Hours—Sweat Washes It Off”
– Dr. Jaishree Sharad, Celebrity Dermatologist, Mumbai
“In humid weather, sweat and wiping your face can wear off your sunscreen. Reapply every 2–3 hours, even indoors if you’re near windows or screens.”
Quick Fix: Carry a spray, stick, or compact SPF in your bag.
“Look for Added Antioxidants”
– Dr. Madhuri Agarwal, Founder, Yavana Aesthetics
“Heat and humidity can trigger oxidative stress on the skin. A sunscreen with vitamin C, green tea, or niacinamide gives additional antioxidant support.”
Benefit: Fights pigmentation and sun spots better.
“Prep Your Skin with a Light Moisturizer First”
– Dr. Aanchal Panth, Dermatologist
“Don’t skip moisturizer even if it’s humid. Use a light, hydrating lotion or serum, let it absorb, and then apply sunscreen. This layering keeps skin balanced and prevents overproduction of oil.”
“Cover More Than Just Your Face”
– Experts from the Indian Association of Dermatologists
“Always apply sunscreen to your neck, ears, back of hands, feet, and chest. People often forget these areas, leading to sun damage and uneven skin tone.”
Humidity can fool you into thinking clouds protect you from UV rays. But UV rays are invisible and penetrate through clouds and glass. Be consistent, rain or shine.
Expert Sunscreen Tips for Humid Weather
- Gel or water-based sunscreen
- Matte or powder finish
- Broad spectrum SPF 30+
- Reapply every 2–3 hours
- Non-comedogenic & fragrance-free
- Added antioxidants like Vitamin C
- Don’t skip neck, ears, hands
- Moisturize lightly before applying