Understanding Mauritius Climate
Mauritius has a tropical climate that is hot and humid most of the time with heavy torrential rains happening intermittently. Key highlights about the climate are listed below which are very important to understand so that you can manage your skin and hair. My first month in Mauritius and I ended up with a horrible breakout as I moved from a dry climate.
- Mauritius has a diverse climate that varies significantly across the island, with 27 micro-climates making it more complex than a straightforward tropical environment.
- The island experiences a tropical climate in summer (December-April) and a subtropical climate in winter (May-November) with a maritime climate throughout the year.
- Coastal temperatures range from 71°F (22°C) in winter to 93°F (34°C) in summer, with sea temperatures varying between 71°F and 81°F.
- Southeast trade winds prevail from March to November, affecting different coastal areas differently.
- The summer months (December-April) often experience heavy precipitation and tropical storms, while winter is relatively dry.
- October is considered as the most pleasant month weather wise and it’s good for the skin as well, requiring least maintenance.
Essential Skincare Steps for Mauritius Climate
Basic Skincare Routine Structure
- Cleansing: The first and most crucial step of your skincare routine, removing dead skin cells, impurities, and makeup. Choose your cleanser based on your skin type.
- Toning: Apply after cleansing to remove residual grime and prepare skin for subsequent products.
- Serums and Treatments: These should be tailored to address specific skin concerns. I would suggest to keep them to as minimum as possible.
- Eye Care: The delicate skin around the eyes requires special attention with lightweight products that absorb quickly.
- Moisturizing: A daily essential that helps replenish your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
- SPF Protection: Essential in Mauritius’ strong tropical sun. I would recommend not to buy anything less than 100 SPF.
Climate-Specific Skincare Tips
- High Sun Protection: Given Mauritius’ proximity to the equator, sunscreen with a SPF higher than 100 is an absolute must for everyday wear, regardless of the season.
- Moisture Barrier Maintenance: The combination of sun, saltwater, and wind can compromise your skin’s moisture barrier, making regular moisturizing essential.
- Hydration Focus: The hot, humid climate requires products that hydrate without feeling heavy on the skin.
- Adapt to Seasonal Changes: Consider using lighter products during the humid summer months and richer, more nourishing products during the drier winter period.
Recommended Skin Care Products Available in Mauritius
- Cleansers:
- Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser (150ml) available at local stores.
- Belif Manology Ultimate Multi Cleansing Foam for thorough yet gentle cleansing.
- Toners and Cleansing Waters:
- Dr. Belmeur Amino Clear Cleansing Water (50ml) provides gentle cleansing.
- Beyond Angel Aqua Purifying Cleansing Water for refreshing toning.
- Treatments and Serums:
- The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% (₨750–₨1,225) helps with oil control and blemishes.
- The Ordinary Glycolic Acid for chemical exfoliation helps combat dead skin cell buildup in humid conditions.
- Masks and Special Treatments:
- Real Nature Aloe Face Mask (20g) provides soothing hydration for sun-exposed skin.
- Jeju Volcanic Lava Fresh Nose Strips for deep cleansing.
- At Home Aesthetics Tightening Clay Mask (Rs 380) for detoxifying treatment.
- Sleeping masks for overnight hydration and repair.
- Moisturizers and Eye Creams:
- Rice Water Bright Vegan Eye Cream (20ml) for delicate eye area hydration.
- Belif Super Knights – Clear Soothing Mask (Rs 1,750) provides intensive moisture.
- Dr. Belmeur products designed for sensitive skin.
Professional Skin Treatments in Mauritius
There are tons of professional skin treatments available now with light therapy to botox. However, try to keep your skin healed as naturally as possible. However, if you do have scars or suffer from huge breakout problem, you could consider following treatments:
- Professional treatments like carbon peeling and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy can help address acne and improve skin texture, as offered by local clinics.
- Microneedling treatments are available for skin rejuvenation and addressing concerns like scarring.
Climate Change Considerations for Skin
- Climate change is affecting Mauritius, particularly its coral reefs, which may indirectly impact coastal environments and consequently skin health considerations.
- Increasing UV intensity due to environmental changes may require more vigilant sun protection strategies.
- Water conservation in skincare routines aligns with the island’s sustainability efforts.
Travel Skincare Tips for Mauritius
- Pack essential skincare items including sunscreen, sunhats, sunglasses, and mosquito repellent.
- Bring waterproof or water-resistant products if planning beach activities.
- Consider including a lightweight, waterproof jacket for unexpected rain showers, especially during summer months.
- Hydrating face mists can provide refreshing relief from the heat while maintaining skin moisture.
Skincare Routine Adaptation by Location
- The North and West coasts are more sheltered from trade winds, potentially requiring different product textures compared to more exposed coastal areas.
- Consider how the 27 micro-climates might affect your skin differently as you travel around the island.
- Beaches may be more windy in certain areas, requiring extra protection against elements.