Southeast Asia's favorite products to cool down during a hot summer

Temperatures are soaring in different parts of the world - albeit at different moments of the year. In southeast Asia, the excruciating summer heat is battled with the following products. Some of them were passed on from generation to generation.

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It treats dry skin, burns, and minor cuts. But what else can Aloe vera gel do? It can cool you down by forming a thick gel layer that blocks the heat from direct contact with your skin. It is also suitable for sensitive skin so don’t worry about irritated skin with this natural product - thank you, Mother Nature!

A Singaporean and Malaysia cult favorite, popping a Himalaya salt candy lozenge in your mouth is sure to cool you down instantly from the inside. The candies contain menthol and salt to give your taste buds a yummy and refreshing experience.

Image: Himalaya Salt Sports Candy

Need a quick gust of wind to wick sweat away? You might want to consider getting a portable mini fan. There are some that also come with a misting apparatus that can double up with the breeze the fan provides for that extra cool sensation!

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Is a mini-fan not enough? Upgrade your mini-fan to a mini-aircon! Although heavier and less portable than the mini-fan, this gadget is lightweight and easy to carry around and bring with you to the office or to leave in your car for that extra cool boost when you need it.

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Traditionally used by Asian grandparents in southeast Asia as a dusting powder, Snake Brand Prickly Heat powder is also perfect for cooling off the heat due to the active ingredients, menthol and camphor.

Similar to the powder range, this Prickly Heat Shower Gel is very useful this season. It has not only cooling properties but also antiseptic capabilities.

Image: Snake Brand and Guardian

Herbal tea is commonly stocked up in southeast Asian households during the Chinese New Year. The rationale? Drinking this can cool the body from excess heat gained from not only the weather but from the consumption of ‘heaty’ Chinese New Year snacks.

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Body powder sheets can work miracles in the humid summer. These cotton sheets come powdered and glide smoothly onto the skin with a cooling effect, wicking not only that sticky feeling from your body away but also body odor - perfect for any hot and humid occasion and for freshening up!

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A (water) spring in a can, using a water spray can be a quick cooling fix for anyone trying to escape the heat. Safe and suitable for use for any part of the body including the face!

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Cooling gel patches have been around since the 90s and they contain a cooling gel that can be applied to the skin surface to cool body temperatures. They are commonly known by many parents for use on children to safely and comfortably cool them down when they run a fever.

Given its popularity and effectiveness, there are now specially designed patches for adult use.

Image: Kobayashi Healthcare

In Japan, this body lotion is highly raved about during the summer months. The reason is its cooling effectiveness. Packed in a huge tub, the product is a good investment that’ll last throughout the heat!

Image: Shopee Thailand

Another favorite and common product in every Asian grandparent’s first aid arsenal, medicated oil is not only good for promoting blood circulation when applied to the neck and the temples, but the menthol inside most medicated oil brands also provide a cooling sensation when applied to the skin. Grab and apply one for a quick cooling fix!

Image: Leung Kai Medical Company