The air has a chill, the skies are hazy, and conversations inevitably start with, “Harmattan has started…” Welcome to the driest season in Western Africa. The annual gift of dry and dusty winds occurs between the end of November and the middle of March. These winds attack our glorious melanin. Temperature will have you shivering in the mornings, to a scorching 35°C by noon. Then back to anywhere the Sahara wind decides by nightfall.
Harmattan can wreak havoc on the skin, turning it into an ashy canvas. The idea that you are a ‘hard man’ if you don’t apply some ointment is prehistoric.
Imagine an all-important handshake with a crush or investor. Suddenly, your skin betrays you like someone who bathes in white chalk powder! I’ll share my tried and tested Harmattan survival kit to save you from that embarrassment.
1. Hand Salve
Rough, dry hands? That was me, before I tried this knight in botanical armour. Burt’s Bees Hand Salve is packed with oils, herbs, and beeswax to hydrate and nourish the hands. Even my palms no longer feel like I do farm work for a living. In actual fact, this cream was formulated for such harsh tasks. I apply it on slightly damp skin for easy absorption. And don’t stop at the hands—elbows love it too.
2. Face Forward
Men have thicker skins due to our sebaceous glands. Facial hair and excessive build-up of dirt, oil, and other impurities exist. Thus, a man’s face needs exfoliation and deep cleansing.
Foodaholic Nature Foam Cleansing Brown Rice to the rescue. I stumbled on this product inadvertently while shopping. It has changed the game for my face. And I am not surprised to find out it is a Korean beauty brand (IYKYK). Lathers luxuriously without an overpowering smell. The best part is that you can feel the hydration like it is pasted on.
3. Lip Seal
Forget those glossy, fancy lip balms. What your cracked lips need to fight off Harmattan is the OG— Vaseline Blue Seal Petroleum Jelly. Its hypoallergenic, which means it has a low risk of causing allergic reactions.
Did you know that Vaseline was discovered when oil field workers used the jelly-like substance to heal cuts and burns? A dab of this miracle worker will keep your lips protected and moisturized all day. In fact, apply it on your whole body right after showering. This will lock in moisture for that smooth, healthy finish.
4. Eye Cover
Your eyes deserve protection during the dry season. The double whammy of sunlight and low humidity affect the eye harshly. They cause irritation to the fine layer of film that protects the eye. Find one or two sunglasses that can shield your eyes from UV rays and dust to shield your peepers from discomfort and damage.
You rack up cool points if you snag versatile Aviators or a pair of Wayfarers, both of which manage to make classic style statements. Talk about form and function.
5. Sun Screen
Research suggests that darker complexioned people are not immune to the effects of sun damage. The most caring thing you can do for yourself is to invest in one. Especially, during Harmattan (and every other season)!
As the sun is not taking any holiday, so you must not stop the cover. And there are plenty great offerings to select from. Protect your face with Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen SPF 50—part sunscreen, part hydration bomb. Pocket-friendly sparring partner to have in your corner. Win-Win.
6. Water Bottle
Duh… this one is a no brainer. Water makes up about half of the human body weight. So, the goal is to stay hydrated throughout the day. This is the ultimate Harmattan hack! Drinking water helps regulate body temperature. It moistens tissues in the eyes, nose, and mouth. It also protects body organs and tissues.
Keep a refillable water bottle handy to combat dry throats, lethargy, and dehydration. Sip, refill, repeat. Easy cue-routine-reward cycle. Your body will love you for it.
Pro Tip: The Nigerian Meteorological Agency advice asthmatics and anyone with respiratory issues should take extra care.
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