As November’s Amihan ushers in cooler mornings, humid afternoons, and abrupt climate shifts, dermatologists warn of seasonal skin flare-ups—and added emotional stress—for millions of Filipinos.
Filipinos are ending November under abrupt weather changes that dermatologists say are fueling seasonal skin problems and emotional strain. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) officially declared the onset of the northeast monsoon, or amihan, on October 27, 2025, marked by cooler winds over Northern Luzon.
Long-term Metro Manila climate records show November daytime temperatures at 30–31°C, nighttime lows at 24–25°C, and humidity around 77 percent. Dermatologists explain that this mix of cool mornings, warm afternoons, high humidity, and intermittent rain creates “weather whiplash,” weakening the skin barrier and triggering eczema, dryness, chapped lips, fungal infections, and contact dermatitis—especially as people switch to heavier skincare products.
Research published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (JEADV) highlights that low humidity and low temperatures reduce skin-barrier function and increase susceptibility to irritation, making seasonal shifts particularly challenging.
Amihan’s Confusing Climate Signals
Although amihan is known for cooler, drier air, the transition is rarely smooth. PAGASA reported stronger high-pressure systems over East Asia driving northeasterly winds, yet Manila still experienced sticky, humid conditions and frequent rain showers.
This results in an unpredictable cycle:
- Cool, drying winds in the morning
- Heat and sweat by noon
- Humidity spikes after afternoon rain
Dermatology reviews confirm that rapid transitions between dry and humid environments destabilize the skin barrier and increase transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Many Filipinos report rough patches, unexpected rashes, and flare-ups just as the year-end holidays begin.
Why the Skin Barrier Weakens in November
The skin barrier (stratum corneum) adapts best to slow environmental changes. Amihan disrupts that rhythm. JEADV findings show that low humidity and cold temperatures reduce barrier lipids and increase TEWL, making it harder to retain moisture.
In lowland cities, this pattern emerges:
Morning: cool winds strip natural lipids
Midday: humidity rises and sweat becomes trapped in skin folds
Daily commute: people move repeatedly between cold air-conditioned rooms and hot outdoor air
These temperature swings cause the skin to expand and contract, forming microcracks that lead to dryness, redness, and irritation.
Routine changes also worsen skin sensitivity. Many Filipinos shift to richer moisturizers and fragranced products during cooler months. With the skin already stressed, allergens like fragrance mixes and preservatives—identified as top triggers by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)—more easily provoke reactions.
Once the barrier weakens, even mild irritants like detergent residue, perfume, sweat, and dust can set off inflammation.
READ: Daily Skin Care: The Quiet Art of Self-love
Dry Skin, Eczema, and Fungal Infections
According to the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS), atopic dermatitis is marked by dry, inflamed skin due to impaired barrier function. International reviews confirm that cold, dry weather worsens these conditions.
During amihan, dermatologists commonly see:
- Red, itchy patches on the face, neck, and hands
- Worsening dryness from longer, hotter showers
- Irritant hand dermatitis from handwashing and alcohol sanitizers
Afternoon humidity brings a different issue: fungal infections. Dermatophytes thrive in warm, moist environments, especially in areas covered by tight clothing.
High humidity + sweat + synthetic fabrics = conditions ideal for:
- Tinea cruris (jock itch)
- An-an (pityriasis versicolor)
- Buni (ringworm)
This makes fungal infections persistent during amihan—even if the air feels cooler—because the Philippines remains humid throughout the season.
Climate, Skin, and Emotional Stress
Skin problems affect more than appearance. A WHO-supported study shows millions of Filipinos already live with depression and anxiety. International data reveals that people with chronic skin conditions experience significantly higher rates of:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Social withdrawal
- Body-image distress
- Sleep disturbance
Local mental-health groups like MentalHealthPH note that seasonal routines, darker afternoons, and visible flare-ups can worsen emotional heaviness—particularly among students and young professionals. When symptoms appear on the face, hands, or scalp, many experience embarrassment and avoid social interactions.
Evidence-Based Skincare for Amihan Season
Dermatologists emphasize adapting skincare to local weather—not routines from colder countries.
1. Moisturizers that repair the barrier
AAD recommends products with:
- Ceramides
- Glycerin
- Petrolatum
Applying moisturizer immediately after bathing helps lock in moisture.
2. Gentle cleansing
Hot showers and harsh soaps damage the barrier. Dermatologists advise:
- Short, lukewarm baths
- Mild or syndet cleansers
- Avoiding strong fragrance products
3. Wear breathable clothing
Tight synthetic fabrics trap sweat and increase fungal infection risk. Health advisories recommend:
- Cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking materials
- Changing damp clothes promptly
4. Continue sunscreen application
Despite cooler weather, Manila’s UV index still ranges from 7–9 in November—classified as “high.” Up to 80% of UVA penetrates clouds, which can worsen hyperpigmentation from eczema or fungal infections.
READ: Watch out for skin problems during the amihan season
When to Seek Medical Care
The PDS advises getting professional help if you experience:
- Rapidly spreading rashes
- Painful cracks or signs of infection
- Persistent itching that disrupts sleep
- Lesions accompanied by fever
Unsupervised use of topical steroids and illegal whitening products remains a serious danger. The FDA regularly warns against creams with potent steroids or mercury, linked to skin thinning, dermatitis, and systemic toxicity.
Mental-health support is equally important when flare-ups affect mood or daily functioning. Resources include the National Center for Mental Health crisis hotline and community-based initiatives like MentalHealthPH.
Climate Change and “Seasonal Skin” in the Future
PAGASA climate assessments show that Philippine temperatures increased by 0.68°C from 1951 to 2015, with more warming expected. International reports warn that warming oceans intensify rainfall and storms. This means the climate rollercoaster seen every November could become more frequent.
Dermatologists stress that maintaining skin health is part of basic well-being—not vanity. With the right information and timely care, Filipinos can manage seasonal skin stress even as climate shifts become more pronounced.
