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Indeed, “over cleansing is extremely bad, and too much scrubbing of skin will strip away its essential oils.” After cleansing, it is also important to apply a moisturiser to lock in hydration. In Dhaka’s intense sun, Dr Khan recommends SPF50+ without fail. Also, never skip sunscreen or moisturiser in the name of “letting skin breathe”, as doing so just encourages more oil production or dryness. It is important to give your skin a gentle routine: cleanse, hydrate and shield, and avoid overwashing or abrasive products.

ROUTINES BY SKIN TYPE

Skincare should be tailored for oily, dry, and combination skin.

• Oily skin: Use a gentle gel or foaming cleanser morning and night. After washing, apply a light, gel-based moisturiser. In the morning, finish with a non-comedogenic SPF 50+ sunscreen to protect without clogging.

• Dry skin: Choose a creamy, non-foaming cleanser to avoid stripping oils. Pat skin (don’t rub) and immediately layer it with a rich, emollient moisturiser. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid can draw in moisture, while ceramides help seal it in.

• Combination skin: A balanced approach works best. Use a gentle cleanser, then address zones separately: for example, apply a light gel moisturiser on the oily T-zone and a richer cream on dry cheeks. Always finish with daily SPF in all areas. The key is consistency: treating each area’s needs without overdoing any one product.

WHEN TO SEEK A DERMATOLOGIST

If issues continue despite effective home care, please consider seeking a professional evaluation. As Dr Khan advises, see a dermatologist if acne or dry patches don’t improve after using a suitable cleanser and moisturiser. In practice, this means if persistent pimples, eczema or dermatitis won’t clear with gentle, barrier-supporting care, it’s time to get help. Also seek a doctor’s advice for any severe rashes, infections, or allergic reactions. A specialist can prescribe targeted treatments and confirm that an “ordinary” breakout isn’t something more serious. In short, if your skin won’t recover with a gentle routine, or if it itches, cracks or scars badly, don’t just hope it gets better on its own; you need to consult a dermatologist.

Protecting your skin barrier in Dhaka means being diligent every day. Simple habits like gentle cleansing, regular moisturising, and daily sun protection will go a long way. By avoiding scrubbing and harsh products and by heeding expert advice, Dhaka residents can help their skin defend against the city’s harsh climate and pollution. And when in doubt, medical guidance is the safest route to healthy skin.