11 Skincare Ingredients to Avoid in Indian Weather

8. High-concentration AHAs (glycolic, lactic acids) used without protection

Alpha-hydroxy acids like glycolic and lactic acid renew skin by removing dead cells, but they also thin the outer layer temporarily and increase sun sensitivity. In tropical sun or long outdoor days, this rise in UV susceptibility can lead to faster sunburn and post-inflammatory pigmentation if you don’t use robust sunscreen. During humid seasons or travel in sunny regions, avoid daytime use of high-strength AHAs and lean towards low-strength exfoliation at night with solid sun protection the next day. Chemical exfoliants are valuable tools, but timing matters: on humid, sunny days, pair exfoliation with broad-spectrum sunscreen and consider milder acids like low-percent lactic acid or bi-weekly use to reduce irritation risk. Dermatologists recommend titrating acid strength when the climate increases UV exposure. [AAD on exfoliation].