Singapore expected to hit 35°C: How to stay fresh and odour-free in the scorching heat

Singapore is expected to sizzle in the coming week, with daily maximum temperatures hitting 35–36°C on some days, according to NEA. In a city where sweating is basically a national pastime, even a short walk to the MRT can feel like a full-body workout. The challenge? Getting through the day without leaving a trail of… well, you get the idea.

Sweat is inevitable in this heat—it’s our body’s built-in air-conditioning system. Dr Rachel Ho, aesthetic physician, explains that when body temperature rises, sweat evaporates to cool us down. Bonus: it also helps your skin barrier, thanks to water content, natural moisturising factors, and antimicrobial peptides.

But not all sweat is created equal. Cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos points out that eccrine sweat glands—mostly under your arms—produce sweat rich in proteins and fats, which bacteria absolutely love. Then there are apocrine sweat glands in the armpits, breasts, face, scalp, and perineum, plus apoeccrine glands in the armpits. Dr Rachel explains that sweat is initially odourless, but when skin bacteria break down its proteins and fats, volatile compounds (aka body odour) appear.

Healthy skin can help sweat evaporate efficiently. “Damaged or dry skin traps sweat longer, giving bacteria more time to party,” adds Dr Sue Ho, lead doctor for women’s health at Prologue. Clothing matters too: tight, heat-trapping fabrics make your body work harder, which means more sweat—and more reasons to wish you had a portable fan in your bag.

Diet, medication, hormones, and genetics also influence sweat and odour. Foods high in sulfur, certain medications, puberty, menstruation, and pregnancy can all amp up sweat production or change its composition, says Dr Rachel.

So, while sweating is our body’s way of keeping cool—and even benefits the skin—it does come with a less pleasant side effect: odour. That’s where deodorants and antiperspirants come in, helping us stay fresh even when the mercury rises.

Deodorant vs Antiperspirant

Deodorants and antiperspirants might sit side by side on the shelf, but they’re not twins. “Antiperspirants reduce sweat (and odour) using aluminium salts, while deodorants simply mask or neutralise odour without stopping perspiration,” explains Dobos.

While some people worry about aluminium salts and breast cancer, Dobos reassures that “scientific evidence does not support a link. Regulatory agencies confirm these products are safe when used as directed.” For extra peace of mind, aluminium-free deodorants are available—they use antibacterial agents instead of blocking sweat glands. Dr Sue recommends applying products to intact skin, avoiding post-shave application, and washing daily.

Stay fresh, even in the heat

Since Singapore’s heat makes sweat a constant companion, staying fresh throughout the day can feel like a full-time job. Swapping damp clothing for dry outfits—including socks and underwear—helps prevent bacterial buildup, advises Dr Sue. To manage hair odour, Dr Rachel suggests keeping a dry shampoo handy for quick refreshes.

For those looking for more targeted solutions, in-clinic treatments can help control sweat production. “Botulinum toxin blocks the neurotransmitter that signals sweat glands, reducing sweat in areas such as armpits, hands, or feet,” explains Dr Rachel.

My skin but better

Whether your goal is to minimise odour or extend your fragrance’s staying power, a combination of smart products and good habits ensures you can face Singapore’s heat with confidence.

Chanel Fragrance Primer, $186

Much like how a face primer preps your skin before makeup, this mist acts like a lightweight moisturiser for your body before you spray on your perfume. Its milky texture glides smoothly on the skin, while notes of jasmine, ylang ylang and orange blossom lift your mood and comfort your senses. This scent-enhancing primer also accentuates any of the four Gabrielle Chanel fragrances that you may choose to apply before you head out.

The Body Shop Spa of the World Brazilian Cupuacu Body Scrub-In-Oil, $59

The secret to smooth and well-hydrated skin is easy — regular exfoliation is needed. The Spa of the World collection by The Body Shop is designed to offer you a spa-like experience during your shower time. This body scrub features cupuacu butter, which is said to be well-used by the indigenous Amazonian communities for generations, for restoring skin elasticity and targeting dehydrated skin. 

Chloé Atelier des Fleurs Solid Perfume in Magnolia Alba, $95

A solid perfume makes a great travel companion, saving you from the heartache of broken or spilled fragrance bottles. This palm-sized balm is an extension of Chloé’s signature Atelier des Fleurs collection, and it is available in cedrus, magnolia alba and santalum. Its compact design saves you the trouble of decanting perfume and makes touch-ups on the go easy, especially after your workouts.

Blunies Ultra Brightening Deodorant in Lavender & White Tea, $12.90

Those who’re too busy for a multi-step body routine, reach for this multitasking deodorant-cum-antiperspirant. Made with skincare ingredients such as probiotics, AHAs and hyaluronic acid, the Ultra Brightening Deodorant brightens and smoothens your underarm skin without leaving any stains on your clothes.

MISE en SCÈNE Perfect Serum Rose Perfume, $17.50

With Singapore’s unforgiving weather, it’s no wonder many of us — especially those who perspire easily — start to suffer from hair odour midday. Perfect Serum Rose Perfume is a leave-on serum infused with Damask Rose Oil that offers a delightful, long-lasting scent, keeping your mood cheery and your strands silky. 

Rare Beauty Fragrance Layering Balm in Fresh Bergamot, $32

Chase away any signs of sluggishness with this cool and energising scent. It can be worn alone on your pulse points or used as a perfume enhancer, intensifying your fragrance of choice. For a more personalised scent, apply this balm on your wrists and elbows first before spritzing your Rare Eau de Parfum.