The Indian monsoon brings cooling rains and cosy weather, but it can also cause chaos for your skin. High humidity, temperature swings, and dampness can trigger acne, oiliness, clogged pores, and dullness. Fortunately, you don’t need expensive products to fight back. These science-supported DIY face masks and scrubs, using kitchen-friendly ingredients, can help rebalance your skin during Sawan.
5 DIY face masks to fix common monsoon skin problems
Potato and papaya glow mask for dull, pigmented skin
Source: Wikipedia
This two-step treatment starts with potato juice, rich in catecholase, an enzyme known to reduce pigmentation and even out skin tone. Rub freshly grated potato juice onto your face (including the under-eye area) and leave it for five minutes.Next, blend ripe papaya with plain yoghurt and a drop of lavender essential oil. Papaya’s papain enzymes and natural alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) promote cell turnover, while yoghurt hydrates and soothes. Lavender oil helps reduce bacteria that cause acne. Leave this brightening mask on for 15 minutes before rinsing off.
Multani mitti and aloe vera purifying scrub for oily skin and clogged pores
Source: Wikipedia
Multani mitti (Fuller’s earth) is a powerful clay that absorbs excess oil and tightens skin. When mixed with aloe vera gel, it forms a soothing, clarifying scrub perfect for humid-weather congestion.Apply this paste to your face and rinse after 15 minutes. Fuller’s earth improves microcirculation, while aloe vera, rich in vitamins A, C, and E, calms redness and hydrates skin without clogging pores.
Orange peel and rosewater soothing mask for sensitive, red, or irritated skin
Source: Wikipedia
For skin affected by acne inflammation or sun exposure, this calming blend is a game-changer. Orange peel powder is packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, which promote collagen and reduce pigmentation. Mixed with rosewater, an ingredient known for its anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties, this DIY mask cools, soothes, and reduces redness. Apply a thin layer and rinse off after 10–15 minutes.
Turmeric and milk anti-acne mask for breakouts and bacterial spots
Turmeric contains curcumin, which helps reduce inflammation and fights acne-causing bacteria like P. acnes. Combine turmeric powder with raw milk, which contains lactic acid—a gentle AHA that exfoliates and clears dead skin buildup.Apply to breakout-prone areas and leave for 10–15 minutes. This mask helps clear blemishes while supporting skin regeneration and reducing redness.
Rice water and cucumber cooling pack for heat rashes and irritation
Source: Wikipedia
During Sawan, heat rashes and inflammation are common due to sticky weather. This hydrating mix of rice water, cucumber juice, and yoghurt offers instant relief.Rice water contains ferulic acid and allantoin, both known for reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Cucumber juice hydrates and reduces swelling, while yoghurt provides a cooling, moisturising base. Apply this blend generously and rinse off after 15–20 minutes.
Pro tips to use monsoon DIY face masks safely and effectively
- Always apply masks on clean, dry skin.
- Do a patch test before full application to rule out allergies.
- Use fresh ingredients—avoid storing leftovers.
- Limit usage to 2–3 times a week to prevent over-exfoliation.
These easy, effective monsoon skincare recipes can be a nourishing part of your Shravan self-care ritual. Whether you’re battling acne, oiliness, or irritation, each remedy supports skin health naturally, guided by ancient tradition and backed by modern understanding.Also Read: Can eggs make your skin glow? 5 proven benefits and DIY ways to use them
