The harmattan season is well and truly here in Nigeria and it is a good idea to check how you’re coping with the change of weather. I have previously written about caring for the skin during this season. If you haven’t read it, check out the article here: How To Care For Your Skin During Harmattan
For this article, however, I’ll concentrate more on the full body experience, and detailing sure-fire tips to ensure you take absolute care of your body, even with the harmattan. For some of us, the dry, cold, and dusty weather sets off the flu season in our immune systems. The rest of us are lucky and glow through the season.
Keeping your body’s immune system robust and in optimum shape is the best way to help you avoid viral infections, cracked lips and skin, dehydration and other discomforting ailments that come with this season.
Keep hydrated:
Due to the heightened dryness in the air during this period, it is of utmost importance to increase your fluid intake to avoid being dehydrated. If you have the bad habit of not drinking enough water in a day or you just simply don’t like drinking water, consider infusing your bottle/glass of water with a slice of cucumber, mint leaves or orange to make it interesting to drink. Also, keep a bottle of water close to your sight at all times, that way you’re always reminded to take a gulp or two at intervals.
Skincare:
Make sure your skin is well moisturized, particularly the parts of the body that are left uncovered when you’re dressed. A fail-safe hack is to ensure you have your moisturizers (including lip balms or oils) with you whenever you step out. This would help your skin retain freshness regardless of the weather and prevent your lips from being chapped.
Embrace Protective Styles:
This one’s for the girlies. You need to protect your hair from the dryness of the weather and avoid breakage and frizz. Hairstyles like braids, crochet, faux locs, and Ghana weaving are great this time of year. The added benefits to these styles are that you can still treat your scalp and secure its length simultaneously.
Invigorate your Immune System:
Taking fruits or supplements that contain vitamin C, zinc, iron, magnesium, and B vitamins is good for optimal immune function.
Wear Protective Clothing:
Choosing the right clothes during the harmattan season helps to prevent the common cold while keeping you warm.
Dust and clean your homes regularly:
Harmattan is notorious for leaving your home very dusty. To prevent inhaling this dust which can set off allergies and other illnesses, make sure you dust and clean your homes every day with soapy water. While doing this, ensure you cover your nose and mouth.
Side Note: This season can trigger asthma, various allergies, and sickle cell disease (SCD). Asthmatic patients should always keep their inhalers handy and avoid dusty areas as much as possible. SCD patients should drink plenty of water/fluids and avoid outdoor activities as much as possible.
