The last two weeks have seen the return of the dreaded “Haze” in Singapore amid a scramble for the N95 masks. PSI readings hit unhealthy levels on most days in all parts of the island and everyone is concerned at the health implications.
While we know that the haze can be a dampener on the weekend plans and often sends everyone scurrying indoors because of the poor air quality, do we know how the haze affects our skin? And what can we do to protect it?
Haze affects our skin adversely as the tiny particulates in the air trap heat, drying out the skin, robbing it of its natural moisturizer and causing irritation, unseemly breakouts and rashes. Recent researches have shown that long term exposure to the haze can also cause premature ageing of the skin- pigmentation and wrinkles could be the initial signs.
Here are some quick tips to protect your skin from the haze:
- Drink plenty of water to get rid of the toxins from your body – It is important to keep your body and skin hydrated from inside and outside
- Cleanse your skin thoroughly – Keep up your regular cleansing routine in the morning and night and also carry wipes/ wet tissues in your bag to cleanse your skin on the go
- Use a sunblock – that will protect you both from the sun and the particulate matter
- Moisturize your skin well – moisturizers form a protective layer on the skin while keeping your skin moist
- Boost your immunity by consuming more fruits, leafy vegetables and foods with antioxidants. Add a supplement if necessary.
We found these products from The Body Shop high in antioxidants and perfect for the “hazed out days”:
The Japanese Matcha Tea Pollution Clearing Mask [100% vegan. formulated without silicones, paraffins and mineral oil.] Priced at S$35.00, 75ml
This creamy face mask will deep- cleanse your skin through gentle exfoliation and purification, ridding it of impurities and pollutants. This face mask is enriched with Matcha green tea from Kakegawa, Japan, dandelion extract and soothing Community Trade aloe vera from Mexico.
If you need any further incentive to pick it up; then until 2nd October you can buy the Japanese Matcha Tea Pollution Clearing Mask at only $26 each if you buy 2 or more masks (U.P. $35 each).
Carrot Cream Nature Rich Daily Moisturizer [Enriched with 97% ingredients of natural origin. Vegan. 100% recyclable packaging.] Priced at S$31.00, 50ml
A skincare favorite at the Body Shop, the Carrot Cream Nature Rich Daily Moisturizer is packed with the natural goodness of organic carrots and antioxidants. This light weight moisturizer can restore the natural radiance of your skin and reverse the drying effect of the haze, keeping your skin hydrated for 72 hours.
Skin Defence Multi-Protection Face Mist SPF45 PA++ [Anti-pollution, anti-oxidant and anti-dullness. Dermatologically tested. Non-comedogenic. 100% vegan and enriched with Community Trade marula oil from Namibia.] Priced at S$35.00, 80ml
This face mist is as powerful as it is lightweight. It can protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays and harmful pollutants. The cloud-like mist forms an invisible protective layer on your skin, keeping it fresh and clean. It comes in a handy pack for protection on the go.
Seaweed Balance Sheet Mask [Vegan. Biodegradable sheet] Priced at S$5.00 per sheet
Launched this year, the Seaweed Balance Sheet Mask hydrates your skin and its antioxidant nature protects your skin aggressively against pollutants. This sheet mask is enriched with cucumber extract, mineral-rich seaweed and Community Trade organic aloe vera and is totally vegan. Use it for a refreshed, healthy skin!