It’s the harmattan season again and it is upon us.
This season begins by the end of November and extends to mid-March. It is characterized by dry, cold and dusty wind with variations in the ambient temperatures of day and night.
Amongst the many effects of harmattan, the skin suffers the most because it is the most exposed. In order to prevent the skin from getting flaky, dry, chapped and dehydrated, there are some simple basic steps to take to ensure our skin remain hydrated, well-nourished and supple throughout the dry season.
Moisturize
The importance of this cannot be overemphasized. Use light-weight hydrating moisturizers and as much as possible, avoid heavy creams during this period. Also ensure to choose safe products that are free from alcohol or other harsh chemicals
Wear protective clothing
use of warm, thick protective clothing is very important in ensuring that the skin is protected from the harshness that comes with harmattan.
Stay hydrated
Constant hydration by drinking lots of clean water helps to protect the skin from the excessive loss of fluid experienced during this season
Make use of face towels
With the business of everyday life especially in urban areas, our faces and skin are bound to attract dirt that is invisible to the naked eye. So, it is important that the face be cleansed from time to time with alcohol-free moisturizing face towels.
Use lip balms
Natural lip balms contain moisturizing and hydrating agents and they help protect the lips from getting dry and chapped and help to seal in moisture.
Exfoliate
Regular skin exfoliation helps remove dead and dry skin, making the skin fresh, moisturized and breathable. Natural scrubs that contain vitamin C and E are good exfoliating agents. Excessive exfoliation of the should be avoided as this will strip the skin of its natural oils and thus, repeating the cycle of skin dryness.