Hey girl, it’s that time again!
Harmattan is like that unpredictable ex who one-minute showers you with love, making you feel all warm and cosy, and the next minute goes cold, leaving you wondering what you did wrong or if you imagined his lovey-dovey side.
Navigating harmattan can feel just as frustrating as dealing with a moody ex. One second, you’re bundled up under the duvet because you can’t stand the cold, and the next, you’re sweating through your outfit, cursing the dust swirling around. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
This season, we’re rolling out the ultimate guide to help you handle Harmattan like a hot girlie. It’s packed with all the tips and tricks you need to stay looking fresh and feeling fabulous, no matter what this season throws at you.
10 Things You Can Do To Improve Your Lifestyle During Harmattan
1. Seal In The Moisture.
This is essential to keep your skin from looking dry and cracked during harmattan. Immediately after you shower, you should apply a hydrating moisturiser. Once you’ve applied a moisturiser, you need to lock it in with a body oil; you can also opt for natural oils like melted shea butter, coconut oil, and jojoba oil to keep your skin glowing.
Now, for your face, we are treading a bit differently. While your body can handle heavier oils like coconut oil, your face needs something that won’t invite breakouts to the party. Look for moisturisers labelled ‘non-comedogenic’ because they’re light, don’t clog pores, and are packed with goodies like vitamins and antioxidants.
2. Become best friends with SPF
When you step out during harmattan, the sun can feel scorching hot, which is why sunscreen isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re just popping outside to grab a quick delivery or going out to work, you need to ensure you have sunscreen on to protect your skin.
You can choose to use either mineral or chemical sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens are great for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin as they block UV rays and are gentle on the skin. Chemical screens may be used if you’re active and need something that sticks through a bit of sweat. Whatever your choice, make sure it’s SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours or immediately after sweating a lot or wiping your face.
Read Also: Our Favorite Black Girl Friendly Sunscreens With Zero White Cast
3. Lip Care for harmattan
During harmattan, our lips can take a hit with the dry, dusty air, leading to cracked, bleeding lips. Here’s how to keep your pout perfect even when the weather’s working against you:
Switch to Gloss: Matte lipsticks may be chic, but they can also be drying. Try switching to a glossier lipstick or a tinted lip balm for that added moisture plus a pop of colour.
Keep a Balm on Hand: If you can’t part with your matte lipsticks, make sure to apply a nourishing lip balm underneath. Look for balms with ingredients like shea butter and vitamin E, as they provide deep moisture and create a protective barrier against harsh weather.
Exfoliate Weekly: Gentle exfoliation can help remove dead skin and prevent chapping.
Avoid Harmful Products: Avoid lip bleaching creams or any product with harsh chemicals. These can be particularly damaging during harmattan, stripping away natural oils and worsening dryness.
4. Layer your outfits
Harmattan is all about mastering the art of adaptable dressing. Choosing the right outfit becomes crucial as the weather shifts from chilly, dust-laden breezes in the morning to potentially scorching afternoons. Light and airy fabrics are your best friends here—think cotton and linen, which not only keep you cool but also help you dodge those annoying sweat marks when the sun comes out in full force.
When the weather is cooler in the mornings and evenings, it’s practical to layer up. A lightweight jacket or a soft, stylish scarf can provide the extra warmth you need and can be easily removed as temperatures rise.
The key is to have flexible wardrobe items that aren’t just fashionable but functional. For instance, you can wear a jacket or scarf to work and then remove it when the weather hits up. You can wear them open or wrapped around you depending on the chill, and they’re easy to carry around, so you’re always prepared no matter how the day’s weather evolves. Remember also to carry sunglasses when you are walking on dusty roads to prevent the dust from entering your eyes.
5. Choose the right shoes for Harmattan
While we all love showing off a fresh pedicure with open-toed shoes, the dust and varying temperatures make this choice a bit impractical during Harmattan. Covered shoes become essential in protecting your feet from the dusty environment and cold, especially when walking or taking public transport. Opt for styles that blend comfort with fashion, such as stylish boots or sneakers.
However, if you’re stepping out into a particularly dusty area, consider shoes made from easy-to-clean materials, like Crocs. Also, always keep wipes and tissues handy to clean your shoes. This way, you can maintain your style without sacrificing comfort or cleanliness, ensuring your feet stay protected throughout the season.
6. Hydrate in Style
Staying hydrated is crucial during harmattan, not just for your health but for maintaining your skin’s moisture in the dry weather. You can make it fun and stylish by choosing a fancy water bottle or cup that reflects your personal style. Having a stylish accessory for your water encourages you to drink more throughout the day and allows you to take water anywhere. You can also buy an insulated bottle that can keep your water cool, which is incredibly refreshing when the weather heats up.
7. Nourish your hair
Harmattan can be harsh on your hair, making it dry and prone to breakage. Keep your hair luscious by oiling your hair regularly. Lightweight oils like argan or rosemary can nourish your scalp and strands without weighing your hair down. Also, always carry a small brush or comb in your bag. This allows for quick touch-ups throughout the day, ensuring your hair remains smooth and tangle-free. Whether you’re going for a sleek look or just keeping your hair out of your face on a windy day, these will keep your hair care game strong no matter where you are.
8. Keep Lozenges handy
The dry and dusty harmattan air can be tough on your throat, leading to discomfort or even a persistent dry cough. Keeping lozenges handy is a practical solution to soothe your throat throughout the day. Choose lozenges with honey, ginger, or menthol, which are effective in moisturising and healing irritated throats. They’re small, easy to carry, and can provide instant relief, making them a must-have in your Harmattan survival kit.
9. Don’t let the cold spoil your fitness routine
Harmattan shouldn’t be a reason to skip your workout. The cooler, dusty air might make it tempting to stay curled up indoors, but maintaining an exercise routine is crucial. If outdoor activities seem daunting due to the cold, shift to indoor exercises. Yoga, pilates, or even simple home cardio workouts can keep your body moving and blood circulating, keeping you warm and boosting your overall health and mood during the drier months.
10. Air out your space
During harmattan, the air inside your home can become particularly dry and dusty, which is uncomfortable and can worsen respiratory problems. Regularly airing out your space can help; simply opening windows for a short period when the dust settles or in the early morning can improve air quality significantly. Additionally, if budget allows, using a humidifier can greatly enhance the moisture level in your home. This helps maintain a healthier indoor environment by offsetting the dryness of the outside air and keeping your skin, throat, and nasal passages hydrated and comfortable.
As we wrap up, remember this season may have its challenges, but with a little savvy and a lot of style, you’ve got all you need to glow.
