This week, Beijing Today has a list of gear to help you get through the nasty clouds heading our way.

 

Wearing a bandanna is more than a fashion statement, it's a way to keep your hair safe when the sandstorms roll into town. It's important to protect your hair during a storm, because the fine grains of sand can easily destroy your cuticles. Bandannas are a great way to say protected. A hat can work just as well, but don't use anything knit -- it will just trap even more sand.

 

Available: Beijing Strategy, F/5, Huawei Shopping Center, No 130, Xidan Bei Dajie, Xidan, Xicheng

Price: 25-100 yuan

 

Have you ever heard of the ancient Chinese saying, "To fight poison, you have to use poison!" On sty days, a sand-based facial cleanser with foaming action is your best choice. It will help wash away the tiny grains that stick to your face using the higher-grit scrub. Just use it carefully, and never use it more than once a week once the sandstorms pass.

 

Available: Watson's

Price: 30-100 yuan

 

If you end up sucking in some sand, you're going to be in for a rough time. Before you hack up your lungs, you can try popping a few of pills to relax your throat.

 

Available: any local pharmacy

Price: 10 yuan per pack

 

A doctor's white medical mask coud be your accessory choice during the storm season. This one has a cute Doraemon picture! It will help keep the sand, or other undesirable objects, out of your mouth.

 

Available: B/2, 77 Street, Xidan, Xicheng

Price: 20 yuan

  

On dusty days, water is easily polluted. If you don't want to end up swigging a mouthful of sand -- and ladies, this is not good for your complexion -- you can use a canteen instead of a cup. These things are designed for use in the desert, so if you have your water sealed up in one, you can tell the sandstorm, "Get bent!" If you can't track down a canteen, a baby bottle makes a good back

 

Available: Meigui Wanqu, No 245, Chengfu Lu, Wudaokou, Haidian

Price: 127 yuan

 

Sandstorm Dos and Don'ts.

 

1.When facing a big sandstorm, make sure you know where you're going.

 

2. Avoid outdoor activities when there is a sandstorm raging.

 

3. Wear white, reflective clothing, long-sleeves and pants, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect you from the direct rays of the sun. Avoid wearing shorts. Use sunglasses and sunscreen.

 

4. Avoid driving a car. If you can't, at least drive slower than usual.

 

5. The skin, nose, eyes, windpipe and lungs are the most easily damaged body parts. Pay special attention to staying protected.

 

6. Drink more water.

 

(Beijing Today March 20, 2007)