HAZE AND SENSITIVE SKIN: PROTECTING THE SKIN BARRIER BY DR. YOKOYAMA

Expert Dermatologist and Co-developer of SunoHada Dr. Yokoyama answers your sensitive skin questions in this month’s Skinsecure Spotlight.

Q.

The haze season is here. How do I better protect my sensitive skin?

from @neosaybin

A.

Haze may not be something we think about daily, but it can pose some trouble for our well-being and skin. Haze, which comprises particulate matter (PM), sulphur, dioxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide, can have adverse effects on your well-being. Among these pollutants, approximately 80% is PM2.5 (fine particulate matter), which is tiny and insidious. Sensitive skin with a weakened barrier function is even more vulnerable to the harmful effects of haze. In this blog post, we’ll explore the impact of haze on your skin and provide essential tips to protect it.

The Hidden Danger of Haze: A Closer Look
Haze isn’t just a visual nuisance; it can wreak havoc on your skin and overall health. Exposure to haze can result in a range of discomforts, including itchy eyes, a sore throat, runny nose, itchy skin, dizziness, and headaches.

Why is PM2.5 so Troubling?

In Singapore, we face a significant concern when it comes to haze, particularly regarding PM2.5 particles. These tiny particles, with a diameter of 2.5 μm or less, hang around in the air for quite some time. When we breathe them in, they can make their way deep into our bronchi and lungs, causing harm. While Japan has had its occasional run-ins with PM2.5 issues, here in Singapore, the overall impact of haze is even more pronounced.

Protecting Your Skin: Essential Measures

Preventing the effects of haze on your skin is crucial. Here are some important measures to safeguard your skin’s health:

• Soothe the Irritation

To counteract skin irritation caused by haze, opt for a soothing lotion that contains anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as glycyrrhizic acid. This will help calm the skin and reduce redness and discomfort.

• Be Gentle While Cleansing

Avoid scrubbing your skin vigorously during washing, as this can exacerbate irritation. Instead, gently press a towel to absorb water after washing. Afterward, ensure thorough moisturization to maintain your skin’s natural barrier.

• Keep it Simple

Simplicity is key when caring for your skin during hazy periods. Stick to a two-step routine of cleansing and moisturizing to minimize the risk of irritation from excessive products and friction.

• Avoid Over-washing

Resist the temptation to over-wash your skin. Excessive washing can strip away essential components like intercellular lipids, the natural moisturizing factor (NMF), and the sebum membrane, all of which are vital for your skin’s barrier function.

Keep your skincare routine simple, and prioritize gentle care to shield your skin from the dangers of haze.

Conclusion

Haze may be an invisible threat, but its impact on your skin and overall health is undeniable. By following these essential measures, you can protect your skin from the harmful effects of haze and maintain its health and vitality. Stay vigilant, keep your skincare routine simple, and prioritize gentle care to shield your skin from the dangers of haze. Your skin will thank you for it.

For persistent skin conditions, always refer to your GP or dermatologist.See best body wash for sensitive skin, and moisturizers for dry and sensitive skin