Ranjit Mahanti
THE advent of Monsoon in a tropical country like India, often comes with its share of ailments and illnesses. The change in weather, coupled with high humidity in several areas leads to many known illnesses such as coughs, cold and so on. However, when it comes to ailments of the skin, they are often neglected by the people and brushed under the carpet. This can sometimes lead to severe and unintended consequences. Sometimes there are simple remedies to take care of skin during monsoons, and ensure that the skin, which is the largest organ of a human body, is in good shape and well looked after. Therefore, ABI met and spoke to Dr Anuya Manerkar, a renowned cosmetic dermatologist, trichologist and aesthetic physician in Mumbai. She gave her views on common problems faced by people in monsoons and also its treatment and common precautions that one can take to tackle the skin issues.
Q. What is the most common skin related issues faced by people during Monsoon season in Mumbai
A: Mumbai is along the coastline and therefore has high humidity and severe rains. This temperature fluctuation and excessive rains that Mumbai gets often leads to many skin related issues. The most common issues that people face can be fungal infections, excessive dandruff, hairfall, oily skin and frizzy hair.
Q. Can you elaborate on Fungal issues that people face?
A: Fungal infections are always on a rise in the monsoons due to high humidity in the atmosphere. It is recommended to keep a pair of spare clothes at the workplace to avoid staying in moist, damp clothes all day. Closed shoes should be avoided as much as possible, and open footwear should be used. Use an absorbent dusting powder in all folds of the body to absorb excess sweat. Use an AHA / BHA PRODUCT IN UNDERARMS to protect the area.
Q. Thanks, and what about the Dandruff related issues.
A: In monsoons, there is always excess moisture in the hair, which can sometimes lead to dandruff infestation in the hair, which can be hard to tackle. A good Ketoconazole based shampoo or Ketoconazole with salicylic acid based shampoo should be used to prevent as well as treat the excess dandruff. Ensure short contact therapy with the scalp for five to six minutes and ensure the conditioner is at least 2 CMs away from the scalp to avoid excessive irritation.
Q. How does one tackle Hairfall in the rains?
A: Many people experience and witness significant hairfall in the rains. One basic way to prevent this is to keep your hair dry at all times and never tie wet hair. Also if your hair gets drenched in the rains, you must always wash it. Use a wide toothed comb for your hair. Ensure that there is adequate vitamin and protein intake in your diet. One must also check and rule out any hormonal issue which may be the underlying cause of hairfall.
Q. Is Oily Skin also a common ailment in the monsoon?
A: Very much so, a lot of people face the problem of excessive oily skin during the monsoon. One should take care of skin by avoiding cream based moisturisers on the face. Use water based Sun blocks during the day. Avoid touching the face frequently. Use a gentle cleanser to take care of debris and dirt on the face. Use a salicylic acid gel every morning or alternate morning with niacinamide serum in case of excess oiliness. Consult a dermatologist if the problem persists.
Q. How does one take care of Frizzy hair?
A: Very Long hair is difficult to manage in the monsoons, and at times hair does get very frizzy. Therefore, trimming and cutting the hair short during monsoon can be a great idea, to avoid split ends. Use a mild shampoo and conditioner, use hair masks weekly and avoid contact of the hair conditioner with the scalp. Consult a dermatologist if the issue persists.
Q. Any general tips for elderly persons during monsoons?
A: Elderly persons, especially those with mobility issues or using adult diapers need to be extra careful during the monsoons. A zinc based cream must be applied under the diaper to improve the strength of skin. An Antifungal dusting powder must be applied at the folds of the body to prevent excessive sweating. Use a towel or toilet paper to stay dry after passing bowels. Use comfortable, ironed undergarments. A dermatologist must be conducted if any issues persist.
While a lot of the issues faced by people during monsoons can be easily tackled by taking preventive care as listed above, it is important that skin related issues are attended promptly and not neglected so that they do not get aggravated. A proper dermatologist must be contacted and treatment be sought if any of the above problems persist or occur recurrently.
Contact:
Dr. Anuya Anil Manerkar (MBBS. DDV)
Panache Skin Clinic
A/4, Vihar Darshan, 7th Road, Rajawadi Colony
Ghatkopar (East), Mumbai- 400077
Mobile: 8879341323