When haze affects Singapore, most people think about its impact on breathing, nose, throat and eye irritation. However, haze may also affect the skin, potentially aggravating eczema and contributing to other types of skin inflammation. Some people may notice more itching, redness, dryness or breakouts of their skin during hazy periods. But does haze actually cause flare-ups of skin conditions such as acne, eczema and other conditions in people with sensitive skin?
The answer is not so straightforward. Haze does not necessarily cause these conditions in someone who has never had them. However, air pollution may make existing skin problems worse, particularly in people with sensitive skin.
How Does Haze Affect Your Skin?
Haze contains tiny airborne particles, including fine particles known as PM2.5. Research suggests that air pollution can affect the skin by increasing inflammation and causing oxidative stress, a process that can damage cells.
Our skin has a natural protective barrier that helps keep moisture in and irritants out. When this barrier is weakened, the skin may become dry, sensitive and more easily irritated.
Here is how haze may affect some common skin conditions, e.g., Eczema, Acne and Rosacea
1. Eczema
People with eczema may be particularly affected by environmental irritants. Eczema-prone skin has a weaker protective barrier, allowing moisture to escape more easily and irritants to enter the skin.
Air pollution may add to this irritation and inflammation. During haze episodes, some people with eczema may experience more itching, redness, dryness or flare-ups. Heat and sweating can also worsen symptoms, so haze may not be the only reason for a flare.
Children with eczema may also experience worsening symptoms. If your child is scratching frequently, sleeping poorly or developing weeping or crusted patches, seek medical advice. These symptoms may mean the eczema needs a treatment review.
2. Acne
During hazy periods, some people may notice more blackheads, whiteheads or red, inflamed pimples. Air pollution may contribute to worsening acne in people who are already prone to breakouts.
It is not simply a matter of dust blocking the pores. Pollution may irritate the skin and increase inflammation, as can wearing an N95 mask for an extended period of time, potentially making existing acne more troublesome.
If your acne becomes worse, please ensure that you are adherent to an appropriate acne treatment. If it persists or worsens, a Singapore dermatologist may help you find a suitable treatment plan.
3. Facial Rash, Sensitivity, Redness and Rosacea
Air pollution may contribute to skin irritation leading to facial rash and increase sensitivity, although other triggers (such as hot weather, sunlight and sudden temperature changes) can also play a part.
Rosacea is a skin condition that can cause facial redness, flushing and sometimes acne-like bumps. People with rosacea or sensitive skin may find their skin more uncomfortable during periods of poor air quality.
Use gentle skincare and avoid products that sting or make your skin feel hotter or more irritated. If redness persists or worsens, a dermatologist may help identify the cause.
How Can You Protect Your Skin During Haze?
A few simple steps may help reduce irritation:
- Cleanse gently: Wash your face or body after spending time outdoors, but avoid excessive washing or harsh scrubs.
- Moisturise regularly: Choose a light and fragrance-free moisturiser containing ingredients such as ceramides to help support the skin barrier.
- Reduce exposure: Check Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) air-quality updates and reduce prolonged outdoor activities when air quality is poor.
- Keep indoor air clean: Keep windows closed when appropriate and consider a properly sized HEPA air purifier.
- Avoid overheating: Wear comfortable long-sleeved clothing outdoors, but avoid becoming excessively hot or sweaty, especially if you have eczema or rosacea.
- Continue appropriate treatment: Do not stop prescribed skin medication or repeatedly change products without advice.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
If your acne, eczema, rosacea or sensitive skin repeatedly worsens during haze episodes, it may be worth having your skin assessed. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist, spread, affect your sleep or become difficult to control. Pain, fever, spreading redness, blisters or significant weeping may require prompt assessment.
At Assurance Skin, Laser & Aesthetics, we assess your skin concerns and recommend treatment based on your symptoms, skin condition and individual needs.
Haze may be difficult to avoid completely, but reducing exposure and looking after your skin barrier can help. If your skin problems continue despite these measures, a dermatologist may help you understand what is happening and find a suitable way to manage it.
This article is for general information and does not replace an individual medical assessment.
References
- World Health Organisation. Ambient (outdoor) air pollution.
- Singapore National Environment Agency. Air pollution.
- International Journal of Women’s Dermatology. Air pollution and skin disorders.
- National Eczema Association. Eczema treatment.
