A recent article reported that Singapore experienced 21 days of “high heat stress” in 2024. Those are days where the average Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) is equal or higher than 33
°C.
On such days, it’s essential to have a way to keep your skin cool and comfortable, or risk suffering an eczema flare-up.
Here are some practical tips to help you beat the heat on such days:
1. Stay Hydrated from Within
I never go anywhere without my water bottle. Drinking plain water throughout the day helps your body regulate its temperature and keeps your skin hydrated from within.
While it may be tempting to drink teh o ice or sports drinks, don’t forget that they’re either loaded with sugar or make you pee more (which reduces your hydration further). All this can make inflammation or eczema flare ups worse. Just stick to water, or maybe add cucumber or lemon slices for a refreshing twist.
2. Apply a Lightweight Moisturiser Regularly
Heat can make your skin dry out faster. And even if you’re indoors, the office aircon won’t help either. A trick I do is to store my favourite moisturiser in the fridge for an added cooling effect. When your skin feels hot and irritated, applying a chilled moisturiser can feel like instant relief while locking in hydration. A lightweight, non-greasy lotion like Hope’s Relief Premium Gel-Lotion includes aloe for a cooling hit.
3. Mist Away the Heat
I also like to pack a mini spritz bottle of water to mist myself. If my skin is particular irritated that day, I sometimes use LiviaOne Probiotic Topical Spray before heading out. This is a spray that helps to replace lost bacteria with a fully functioning live, active enzyme-enriched probiotic blend. A good spray helps nourish my skin and feels like a breeze on a hot day.
4. Incorporate High-Water Content Fruits into Your Diet
Eating fruits with high water content helps you stay hydrated from the inside out. Watermelon and pears are excellent choices because they’re juicy, refreshing, and eczema-friendly. Bonus: they’re easy to pack for on-the-go snacks, so whether you’re at work or on a day out, you’ll always have a hydration boost handy.
5. Dress for Comfort: Light, Breathable Fabrics
Opt for loose, breathable clothing made from natural fibers like bamboo. This material help wick sweat away from the skin and allow airflow, reducing the chances of heat rash or eczema flares. If you’re headed outdoors, consider wearing UV-protective clothing or bringing along a sunhat to shield your skin. If you’re driving, you may also want to wear arm sleeves to shield them from the sun.
6. Cool Showers, Not Ice-Cold Ones
When you’re overheating, it’s tempting to jump into an ice-cold shower. But icy water can actually shock your skin and worsen irritation. Instead, take a lukewarm shower to cool down gradually. You can even rinse off with a gentle, non-drying wash like Hospigel, which is safe for sensitive skin and won’t strip away moisture.
7. Use Sun Protection
To prevent your skin from feeling hot and flushed after sun exposure, use an eczema-safe sunscreen (again, apply it straight from the fridge for a soothing hit). Look for lotions instead of spray-types, as sprays can have alcohol that could dry out your skin further.
8. Keep a Portable Fan Handy
A small, portable fan can provide a surprising amount of relief when you’re stuck in stuffy areas. Whether you’re in the MRT or queueing at the hawker centre, a quick breeze can help bring your body temperature down.
9. Avoid Spicy and Salty Foods
It might sound unrelated, but spicy foods can raise your internal body temperature, causing you to sweat more. Stick to lighter, hydrating meals like salads, fish, or fresh vegetables to help keep your body cool from the inside out.
Stay Cool and Take Care
With the rise in high heat stress days in Singapore, it’s more important than ever to take proactive steps to keep your skin cool and prevent heat-related issues. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can help maintain your skin’s health and comfort during the hottest days.