If your skin looks worse on hazy days, you’re not imagining it: How to protect it

If your nose and throat have felt irritated lately, you’re not alone. On the morning of 15 September, all areas of Singapore recorded unhealthy levels of air pollutants, marking the first time this has happened across the island since September 2019. This follows a deterioration in air quality on 14 September, when the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reached unhealthy levels across most of Singapore, with the exception of the north.

The National Environment Agency (NEA) has also warned that dry conditions are expected to persist in Singapore and the surrounding region in the coming days.

Over the past week, netizens have taken to social media to share concerns about a lingering burnt smell, with some reporting discomfort in their noses and throats. But while the effects of haze on our respiratory health are more widely recognised, our skin can also bear the brunt. Fine particles and pollutants in the air can irritate the skin and potentially aggravate existing concerns such as sensitivity, dryness and breakouts.

Here’s what haze can mean for your complexion and how to protect your skin, according to aesthetic physician and founder of The Skin Longevity Clinic, Dr Rachel Ho.

How does haze and air pollution affect our skin on a day-to-day basis?

“Air pollution and haze consist of particulate matter, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds and ground-level ozone. These components disrupt the skin barrier, generate oxidative stress, activate inflammatory pathways, promote melanin synthesis and upregulate matrix metalloproteinases, which are enzymes that break down collagen.

This cascade leads to skin barrier dysfunction, increased transepidermal water loss, chronic inflammation and accelerated ageing. Some of the skin manifestations of haze and air pollution include an increased risk of pigmentary disorders such as melasma and solar lentigines, exacerbation of inflammatory skin conditions like atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and acne, as well as accelerated skin ageing in the form of wrinkles and loss of elasticity. Studies also show that exposure to particulate matter has synergistic effects when combined with ultraviolet radiation.”

Are certain skin types more vulnerable during haze season?

“Individuals with pre-existing inflammatory or pigmentary skin conditions experience greater exacerbation of symptoms during haze episodes. Those with compromised skin barrier function, such as children, are also at higher risk of these conditions.

Patients with darker skin, who are already more prone to hyperpigmentation and pollution-induced pigmentary changes, may experience worsening of their pigmentation. Those with fairer skin tend to be more susceptible to photoageing and UV-induced damage during periods of haze.”

Should we be adjusting our skincare routine when air quality is poor — and if so, which steps are most important?

“Yes, skincare routines should be adjusted during periods of poor air quality to protect the skin and mitigate haze- and pollution-induced effects. The key priorities are barrier repair, photoprotection and antioxidant support.

I recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen for UV protection, and tinted sunscreens for those with darker skin tones. Antioxidant skincare ingredients such as vitamins C and E, as well as niacinamide, help to neutralise free-radical damage. For barrier repair, look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and beta glucan.

A simple skincare routine during this period would include a gentle cleanser, an antioxidant serum, a barrier-supporting moisturiser and sunscreen.”

Are there specific ingredients we should prioritise — or avoid — during this period?

“I would avoid harsh exfoliants and active ingredients that could irritate the skin during this period, such as spicules, physical scrubs, strong exfoliating acids and retinoids. These ingredients can disrupt the skin barrier and increase inflammation.

Barrier-supporting and antioxidant ingredients should be prioritised to help the skin better cope with environmental stress.”

What are your top dermatologist-approved tips for protecting our skin when haze levels are high?

“Cleanse with gentle facial cleansers so as not to strip the skin barrier, and cleanse the skin promptly after outdoor exposure to remove particles and pollutants. Reducing outdoor exposure during periods of haze is also important.

From a skincare perspective, antioxidants help reduce free-radical oxidation, while barrier-supporting moisturisers help strengthen the skin. For hyperpigmentation concerns, photoprotection is essential, including sunscreen, UPF clothing, wide-brimmed hats and umbrellas. If the skin barrier is disrupted, occlusive skincare products may be considered, and over-exfoliation should be avoided.”