7 Indian Monsoon Skincare Rituals From Ayurveda and Regional Traditions You Should Follow

As monsoon rolls across India, its cooling rains bring respite but also a surge in humidity-led skin issues: clogged pores, acne flare-ups, excess oil, and fungal infections. In response, India’s diverse skincare traditions offer time-honoured remedies rooted in Ayurveda and local ingredients, designed specifically for the rhythms of the season. Whether it’s turmeric-laced ubtans from the north or steam therapy from Kerala’s healing centres, each ritual calms, balances and renews. We’ve matched these with carefully selected Indian products from trusted brands, so your rainy-day skincare feels both traditional and timely.

1. Abhyanga with Herbal Oils

Why it works:
Abhyanga—self-massage with warm, herb-infused oils—is a core Ayurvedic ritual that pacifies the Vata and Pitta doshas, both of which are aggravated during the damp monsoon months. The oil acts as a natural barrier against external toxins, supports lymphatic drainage, enhances circulation, and keeps the skin supple, even in humid conditions. Regular Abhyanga is believed to balance the body's energies and prevent seasonal skin imbalances, such as dryness, sensitivity, and dullness, which can coexist with oiliness during the rainy season.

How to use it:
Warm 2–3 tablespoons of the oil and massage it into the body using firm, long strokes, especially over joints and limbs. Let it sit for 20–30 minutes to allow it to deeply penetrate the skin and draw out toxins before washing it off with a mild herbal cleanser.

Extra tip: Try Juicy Chemistry Cold Pressed Sesame Oil, which helps invigorate circulation and relieve skin fatigue while providing deep nourishment.

2. Ubtan Pastes for Cleansing

Why it works:
Ubtans are powder-based cleansers that have been traditionally used across North and Central India. Made from kitchen staples like gram flour, turmeric, sandalwood, and rose petals, these dry blends cleanse without stripping the skin’s natural oils. They remove excess sebum, dirt and dead cells—especially helpful in humid conditions when sweat clogs pores easily. The antifungal and antibacterial properties of turmeric and sandalwood protect the skin against infections, while besan gently exfoliates and balances oil production. Used weekly, they support skin clarity and radiance throughout the monsoon.

How to use it:
Mix 1 tablespoon of the ubtan with rosewater or raw milk to make a smooth paste. Apply to damp skin and allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes. Gently scrub off using circular motions, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.

Extra tip: Use Naturali Ubtan Brightening Body Scrub with Saffron, Turmeric, Sandalwood Oil, and Chickpeas for a gentle yet effective blend that revives the skin while balancing moisture.

3. Vetiver Water Facial Splash

Why it works:
Vetiver, known locally as khus, is a grass with deep cooling, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. In humid south Indian climates—especially during the monsoon—it’s used as a skin toner and refresher to soothe irritation, prevent breakouts and reduce excess sweating. It's natural astringent action tightens pores and prevents dirt accumulation. The earthy aroma also has grounding effects on the nervous system, reducing stress-linked skin flare-ups. Used daily, vetiver water helps restore pH balance and refresh the skin without synthetic additives.

How to use it:
Soak a small bundle of dried vetiver roots in clean water overnight. In the morning, strain and store in a clay pot or spray bottle. Splash onto face or mist throughout the day as a natural toner.

Extra tip: Try Blue Nectar Shubhr Vetiver Water Face Mist, which combines steam-distilled vetiver for a cooling, toning spritz ideal for humid climates.

4. Takradhara for Skin Detox

Why it works:
Takradhara, derived from Kerala's Panchakarma system, involves the rhythmic pouring of medicated buttermilk over the forehead and scalp. This cooling therapy reduces inflammation, supports skin detox, and calms the nervous system. For the skin, the lactic acid in buttermilk gently exfoliates and balances the microbiome, while additions of turmeric or vetiver can help fight acne and dullness. During monsoon, when skin tends to break out or feel congested, Takradhara-inspired rinses help maintain clarity and soothe irritation.

How to use it:
At home, mix equal parts of cool buttermilk with a pinch of turmeric or sandalwood powder. Apply over clean skin or pour over the body before bathing. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before gently rinsing it off with lukewarm water.

Extra tip: Use Vaidyaratnam Rasa Thailam, a post-rinse body oil enriched with fermented buttermilk extracts and Ayurvedic herbs to extend detox effects.

5. Neem & Turmeric Baths

Why it works:
In Eastern Indian households, neem and turmeric are kitchen and courtyard staples known for their potent antifungal and antibacterial properties. Used together, they prevent common monsoon skin infections such as prickly heat, boils and body acne. While neem purifies the blood and skin, turmeric calms inflammation and enhances glow. The bath ritual, often weekly, also has spiritual undertones—purifying both body and energy. With the rise in skin sensitivity during the monsoon, this gentle yet potent combination is a must-have for the season.

How to use it:
Boil a handful of fresh neem leaves in water, allow to cool, and strain. Add turmeric paste to this water and use it as a final rinse after your regular bath. Alternatively, soak in a neem-turmeric bath for 10–15 minutes.

Extra tip: Follow up with Nat Habit Pure Cold Pressed Neem Oil for a seamless neem routine that clears out residues while respecting your skin barrier.

6. Sandalwood & Multani Mitti Packs

Why it works:
In the dry and often humid regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat, the combination of chandan (sandalwood) and Multani mitti (Fuller's Earth) helps regulate oil secretion and tighten enlarged pores. These minerals draw out impurities, prevent breakouts and offer a soothing effect on sun-exposed skin. Multani mitti absorbs excess moisture that can accumulate during the monsoon, while sandalwood adds an antibacterial and cooling touch. Regular use of this mask helps maintain an even and fresh complexion, especially for those with oily or combination skin types.

How to use it:
Mix equal parts of sandalwood powder and Multani mitti with rosewater or cucumber juice to create a thick paste. Apply to the face and neck, leave on until semi-dry (about 15 minutes), and rinse off gently with cool water.

Extra tip: Use VLCC Multani Mitti Face Pack, a pre-blended mask perfect for those seeking a mess-free alternative to DIYs.

7. Steam Therapy with Ayurvedic Decoctions

Why it works:
Steaming the face and body is a time-honoured Indian technique to open pores, flush out toxins and soften skin. During monsoon, it helps balance oil production and clears congestion caused by sweat and pollution. Herbs like tulsi, neem, triphala and camphor added to the steam enhance antibacterial and detoxifying effects. Beyond skincare, the ritual relaxes the nervous system and clears sinus congestion, aligning the body with monsoon’s rhythm of release and renewal.

How to use it:
Boil water with a handful of chosen herbs. Place your face over the pot (at a safe distance), cover your head with a towel and inhale the herbal steam for 5–10 minutes. Follow with a splash of cold rose or vetiver water to close the pores.

Extra tip: Enhance the ritual with Just Herbs Tulsi & Manjishtha Anti-Acne Glow Boosting Gel Creme, which comes in a ready-to-steep sachet ideal for home facials.