Living in the city already leaves our skin exposed to high levels of pollutants, which can be detrimental to its health and appearance. The damage caused by these pollutants can lead to a variety of skin issues, such as premature aging, pigmentation problems, acne, psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema. Unfortunately, the problem is exacerbated by the hazy conditions that occasionally plague Singapore, often due to neighboring forest fires. These hazy conditions serve as a stark reminder that our skin is constantly subjected to elevated levels of pollution. As conscientious individuals, it is crucial that we take steps to protect and nourish our skin, using effective skincare products and adopting healthy habits. By doing so, we can minimize the negative impact of pollution on our skin and maintain its natural radiance and vitality.

Hazy weather traps UV rays, increasing the effects of UV exposure, making them stronger than a clear sunny day. We have enough sun to deal with on a normal basis already! The haze pollutants can also create free radicals in the face of UV and this causes even more oxidative stress on our skin barrier. The fine particulate matter that hangs in the air can penetrate our skin's protective barrier and infiltrate our pores, wreaking havoc on our complexion. These minuscule particles, which can be up to 40 times smaller than our pores, have a sneaky way of seeping in and causing clogs that can manifest as annoying breakouts.

It's not just the immediate inconvenience of the breakouts, though, because prolonged exposure to such air pollution (things like UV radiation, Particulate matter (PM), hydrocarbons, organic compounds, oxides, particles, ozone, and cigarette smoke) can exacerbate the irritation on our delicate skin, resulting in not only breakouts but also accelerated degradation of the collagen in our skin, parched skin, unsightly redness, or uninvited rashes that nobody wants to deal with. So it's crucial to take precautionary measures and shield ourselves from the ominous effects of air pollution for the sake of healthier, clearer skin.

Skin is the largest organ in the human body and it is the very first line of defence against environmental stressors. Healthy skin will be able to fight such stressors off but healthy skin does not come naturally (unless you’re blessed with good genes).

What can we do to take care of our skin especially in hazy conditions?

• Use a non-oil based makeup remover, cleanse gently but thoroughly with a gentle cleanser like a milk cleanser of appropriate pH4.5-5.

• Minimise outdoor activities and physical exertion during a haze.

• Use antioxidant in skincare (Vitamin B (niacinamide), C, E). this can be in the moisturiser you use day and night to protect the skin barrier.

• Apply a sunscreen of SPF 50 daily. some sunscreens have an anti-pollution factor! we recommend the Vichy one. https://www.vichy.sg/Face-care/Skin-Defense-Daily-Care-Anti-dullness-BB-cream-UV-PROTECT/p24546.aspx

• Drink more water to remain hydrated and remove toxins through the skin. Best if you perspire through exercise (indoors)

• Commit to a well-balanced diet. Include fresh fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants and essential fatty acids. It is helpful to eat well over a week and not be overly obsessed with the daily intake.

• Invest in an air purifier with a HEPA filter to clean your home air of impurities and fine particles. We have this in our salons!

• Keep the skin clean, detoxify it at night with clay mask but avoid most laser treatments or facial treatments that over exfoliate the skin, making the skin more vulnerable to pollution and sun damage.

• Enjoy a bespoke facial treatment at our salon that will help with your hydration levels and also boost your skin’s defence by infusing it with antioxidants!