It is no news that the November/December months usher in the harmattan season in Nigeria. A season is rife with dusty air, general dryness and cold –all of which contributes to the coughing and sneezing this period.
Many Nigerians have a love-hate relationship with this season. For certain people, the harmattan signals that Christmas and the New Year festivities are just around the corner and they love the cold, chill nights that comes with it while others detest the seasonal allergies it brings about and the dryness that accompanies it.
Whichever group you belong to, you’d definitely appreciate the highlighted steps given in this article to properly caring for your skin this period.
These steps include:
Avoid Hot Showers: This is because hot water strips the skin of it’s natural oils. If you’ve noticed your skin feeling dry and tight after a hot bath in the harmattan season, then this is probably why. To prevent this, use lukewarm water to bathe and shower.
Moisturise Frequently: This is the next step after you’ve had your bath. Moisturisers trap in moisture, forming a protective barrier on the skin, thereby protecting it from the dry air. It is advisable to invest in a good moisturiser suitable for your skin type. For best results, opt for a fragrance-free and hypoallergenic moisturiser.
Exfoliate: Dead skin cells are prone to building up on the skin’s surface, leading to acne, dullness, clogged pores and other unwanted skin condition. To exfoliate, use a gentle body scrub or an exfoliator to remove dead skin cells. Avoid overdoing this step as excessive exfoliation leads to dry skin.
Apply Sunscreen Regularly: You might argue that the sun’s rays are not as harsh this period, but wearing a sunscreen to go outdoors this season is essential. Find a good sunscreen with an SPF of 30, at the bare minimum, and apply 15-20 minutes before going outdoors. Be sure to re-apply every 2 hours for best results.
Keep Hydrated: Making sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day helps your skin stay hydrated, essentially maintaining its natural protective barrier. Try setting reminders on your phone to help remind you of this task and make sure to keep a water bottle in your sight at all times.
Wear Protective Clothing: To shelter yourself from the harsh effects of the harmattan weather, wear protective clothing when outside. Opt for long-sleeved outfits, turtle-neck wears –essentially clothes that covers exposed body parts like arms, neck, legs and chest area.
Don’t Neglect Your Hands and Lips: These are most vulnerable this period. Invest in a good lip balm/lip oil (use fewer lipsticks) and hand lotion.
Cleanse and Double Cleanse Often: Cleaning your face at least twice daily will help keep it soft and moisturised. Even when you have no makeup on, double cleansing to remove every speck of dust on your skin.
Opt for Natural Skincare Products: It is of utmost importance to pick your skin products wisely this season. Pick products with natural ingredients such as honey, aloe vera, jojoba oil and avocado to help in nourishing and protecting your skin from the harsh elements this season.
Pro tip: It is a always a good idea to consult your dermatologist before buying a skincare product.
