As Harmattan approaches, bringing dry, dusty winds, chilly nights, and low humidity, it’s time to gear up and keep our skin glowing all season! With the right steps, we can beat the dryness and keep that radiant, healthy look.
The Harmattan season is notorious for dehydrating the skin, making it look dull, cracked, and flaky.
Most Nigerians have a love-hate relationship with the Harmattan season. For some, it signals the start of the festive period—Christmas time—with its cold nights and dry, breezy days. Others, however, dread the season for the discomfort it brings. Personally, I’m not a fan of Harmattan. My hair becomes brittle, no moisturizer seems to keep my skin hydrated, my feet crack, my lips dry out, and, worst of all, there’s the never-ending flu.
Nonetheless, whether you love or dread the season, Harmattan will come around every year—so it’s essential to have some helpful tips on hand to keep your skin healthy, especially if you have dry skin.
Harmattan doesn’t have to leave us feeling dry and uncomfortable. With the right skincare routine, you can keep your skin hydrated, soft, and glowing even through the harshest harmattan days.
Here are some essential skincare tips to help you stay ahead of the dry season’s challenges.
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. Harmattan’s dry air robs moisture from your skin, so hydration is your best defence. Not only does drinking water keep your skin hydrated, but it also helps flush out toxins for a clearer complexion. You could add natural fruit juices like watermelon or cucumber-infused water to increase hydration.
2. Bathe With Lukewarm Water
Don’t be tempted to bathe with hot water because of the cold. Though it feels better, but it can strip the skin of It’s natural oil. Always take a warm bath and moisturize immediately to lock in moisture.
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3. Invest in a Gentle, Hydrating Cleanser
Avoid foaming or harsh cleansers, which can strip the skin of its natural oils.
Switch to a creamy or hydrating cleanser that keeps your skin’s moisture barrier intact.
Ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera are great for retaining hydration.
Cleanse just once or twice a day to avoid drying out your skin.
4. Moisturize Intensely and Frequently
Choose thicker creams over lotions for extra moisture. Harmattan demands heavier moisturizers that lock in hydration.
Use products rich in humectants like hyaluronic acid and emollients like shea butter or jojoba oil.
Apply moisturizer immediately after showering to trap in moisture and reapply throughout the day to keep your skin feeling soft.
For me, during Harmattan I simply switch to 👇🏽and I still use any pure oil on my feets.
5. Pay attention to Your Hands and Lips
Never be caught outside without a lip balm or gloss, as the lips are especially vulnerable to Harmattan’s drying effects.
Keep your hands moisturized, especially after washing. During this season, a good hand lotion is an essential item for your handbag.
6. Don’t Skip Sunscreen
Opt for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Even with the haze of harmattan, UV rays still penetrate and can cause sun damage. Apply sunscreen as the last step in your morning skincare routine to protect your skin from harmful rays, preventing dryness and dark spots. You can get good sunscreen lotions in jumia and konga online store.
7. Exfoliate Gently Once a Week
Use mild exfoliators to remove dry, flaky skin without irritation.
Regular, gentle exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and enhances the effectiveness of your moisturizer.
Choose a gentle scrub or enzyme-based exfoliant to avoid causing microtears in the skin.
Over-exfoliating can further dry out your skin, so once a week is enough. Also, exfoliation isn’t suitable for every skin type, so make sure it’s right for yours before adding it to your routine.
8. Opt for Oil-Based Serums and Treatments
Look for facial oils or oil-based serums for added moisture.
Oil-based treatments add an extra layer of protection and prevent moisture loss. Oils like argan, jojoba, and rosehip are non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and are perfect for sealing in hydration without feeling too heavy on the skin.
9. Eat Hydrating Foods
Incorporate fruits and vegetables rich in water and vitamins.
Water-rich foods like oranges, watermelon, and cucumbers help keep your skin hydrated from within.
Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids (such as fish and walnuts) and vitamins (like E and C) also support skin health and resilience.
10. Dress for Protection
Dress to protect yourself during Harmattan. Wear thick, heat-absorbent clothes to trap body warmth and reduce heat loss to the surroundings. Protect yourself with sunglasses, hats, and closed shoes.
Make these simple changes to keep your skin nourished, hydrated, and glowing through Harmattan’s challenges!
Embrace the season with confidence, knowing your skin is ready to face whatever dry winds come your way. So stock up on your essentials, stay consistent with your routine, and let your skin radiate all season long.
Harmattan doesn’t stand a chance against your glow if you keep to these tips! 🌟💗💗💗
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