Harmattan, the dry and dusty north-easterly wind, is here! With the year coming to an end and the weather becoming hot and dry, you might just be wondering how to survive and cope during the season.
When we hear the word harmattan, what often comes to mind is cold, dust, dry skin, chapped lips and cracked feet.
In order to avoid being at the receiving end of everything harmattan comes with, there is a need to consider some essential measures to stay warm and hydrated during this harmattan season.
1. Bathe with Lukewarm water
It’s normal to be tempted to bathe with hot water during the harmattan season but doing so will do more damage to your skin than good. Bath with lukewarm water instead.
2. Drink a lot of water
Harmattan makes the body feel dry and dehydrated. Drinking water at all times will keep the body cool and hydrated. Don’t wait till you are thirsty before you drink water. If possible, take a water flask with you wherever you go. Also warm liquids like coffee or tea will help you stay warm and prevent you from the cold.
3. Moisturize your skin
Most people especially those with dry skin suffer from chapped lips and cracked feet during harmattan. Investing in a good moisturizer will keep your body from getting dry. You can try moisturizers such as olive oil to control dryness and shea butter to soften and hydrate the skin. Ensure to wear clothes that will cover the feet and other parts of the body that are prone to dryness. It is very necessary to wear appropriate clothes, depending on the temperature. You can also apply some lip gloss to your lips to prevent them from cracking as a result of too much dryness.
Read Also: Personal Safety And Security Tips For The Yuletide Season
4. Wear sunglasses to protect the eye
It is safer sometimes to wear sunglasses to protect the eyes, where the winds are quite dusty and harsh, to prevent infections and irritations.
5. Take honey and lemon in warm water
This is a perfect combo for dryness and irritation in the throat. This works by providing quick relief as honey is a natural remedy for cough and sore throat while lemon is a great source of vitamin c which is good for boosting the immune system
6. Get medical help when necessary
Harmattan can also cause people to have asthmatic attacks, sneezing, and coughing. There is plenty of dust, pollen, and hay fever, which causes irritation, and inflammation of the airways and triggers allergic reactions. Thus, visit the hospital when you experience serious symptoms during the harmattan.
We hope you found this tips helpful in staying warm and hydrated this harmattan season.
Share to your network. Sharing is caring!
