Expert tips to build the perfect skincare routine for Indian skin

By Dr. Shalini Dubey, Medical Affairs Manager, Iberia Pharmaceuticals 

Indian skin is tough but also temperamental. One day it glows, the next it breaks out, and half the time the weather decides how it behaves. The dust and heat make things harder, and the weather never really stays the same. Delhi’s winter air turns skin dry and tight, while Mumbai stays humid almost all year. Most other cities fall somewhere in between. There isn’t one formula that works for everyone, but a few steady habits always help – the simple, no-fuss ones, not the long routines that flood the internet.

Keep It Clean and Simple 

Wash your face day and night with something gentle. It does not have to be anything expensive, just a cleanser that doesn’t leave your skin dry. If it does, it’s too harsh. Use a light moisturizer after. It should feel nice, not sticky, not heavy, just comfortable. The sun here is brutal. Don’t rely on a cloudy day as a sun-proof day. Even on gloomy days, UV rays still affect you. The clouds, or the window at the office do not serve as a filter. Sunscreen is necessary, daily. Choose one with at least SPF 30, PA++++ if possible. That alone saves you from most skin problems.

Adjust with the Weather 

In cities such as Chennai, the humidity is so high that your skin will be greasy even if you miss cream. Opt for gel-based or oil-free moisturizers there. On the other hand, Delhi’s winter is the opposite. Your skin flakes, lips crack, and no amount of water helps. Switch to thicker creams, something that seals in moisture. Tiny tweaks like that keep your skin steady through the year.

Go Easy on Exfoliation 

Most people go wrong with scrubbing. The myth is that the harder you rub, the cleaner it gets. Not true. Indian skin scars and pigments easily, and overdoing exfoliation only makes it worse. Forget rough scrubs. Use a mild acid exfoliant once a week with ingredients like lactic acid or mandelic acid, which are easy to use and not harsh on the skin. It is always wise to observe how your skin feels first before doing more. If your skin irritates or stings, bakuchiol is a gentler choice. It works slowly but performs the same function.

Choose Serums That Actually Work for You

Serums can help, but only if you don’t treat them like magic potions. Vitamin C in the morning helps fight pollution and adds some glow. Niacinamide balances oil and fades marks. Retinol or retinal at night works on texture, but go slow – twice a week is plenty at first. If your skin feels irritated, bakuchiol is a milder alternative. It works slowly but does the same thing.

The Secret Ingredient: Patience 

The hardest part? Patience. Skin doesn’t change in three days. Give it a month, at least. Don’t toss a product just because it didn’t “show results” in a week. Mostly, your skin just wants consistency. And when it starts misbehaving whether it is burning, peeling, or breaking out, it is time to stop. Go back to basics. Sometimes all it needs is rest, water, sleep, and a plain moisturizer. You don’t have to chase perfection; calm skin looks better than “glass skin” any day.

So, keep it simple. A gentle wash, the right cream, a solid sunscreen, and a bit of patience. That’s it. No filters, no miracle hacks. Just everyday care that works quietly, even in Indian weather.