How to look your best this harmattan

It’s official, harmattan is here! While it is possible to enjoy the cool weather there is no denying that it comes with load of challenges. Harmattan is a dry, cold and dusty period characterized by low humidity in the atmosphere compared to other seasons of the year.

The harshness in the air can have dire effects on our health particularly on the hair and skin, as it is the root cause of
skin dryness, cracking lips, hair breakage and general allergies.

To be on the safe side, it is important to take some extra measures to help combat the harsh effects of the weather. Here are some tips on how to maintain your hair and skin in the best possible ways through this season.

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Use moisturizers: One of the best ways to maintain your skin and hair this season is by keeping it moisturized and fresh at all times. To avoid dryness and maintain your body oil, it is advisable to use mild moisturizing soaps and oily lotions instead of the normal lotion.

Exposure to the sun: Another way to maintain healthy skin is by avoiding unnecessary exposure of the skin to dry air and also to keep your scalp and hair from dryness.

After baths, use lotion while the skin is damp: Do not towel your body completely dry after bathing. Applying cream/oil on damp skin helps to retain about 10% moisture and your skin will definitely thank you for this. Also remember to use hand cream during the day and before going to bed at night.

Combing wet hair is a no-no: Your hair is at its most fragile when wet, which is why brushing or combing just after the shower is a major no-no. If your hair seems to get frizzy and fall flat just minutes after blow-drying, then it’s very likely that you simply aren’t drying it properly.

Avoid alcohol based facial cleaners: Alcohol or astringent cleanser are a no go area this season hence the ambiance is already dry. Instead, make use of mild cleansers and toners with a neutral pH of 5.5. Don’t forget to always moisturize after cleansing.

Use lip balm/ gloss: It is common knowledge that this is a season for cracked and scaly lips. Dry, cracked lips are gross and unattractive so why not invest in a good lip balm, lip salve or lip gloss. Give your matte lipsticks a break and opt for
moisturising lipsticks instead. Or simply apply lip balm/gloss before or after your lipstick.

Style properly: Wear your hair in protective styles to protect your ends from drying and breaking off. Also avoid use of hair gels, spritz and strong hair hold. Hair sprays and styling mousse may be used instead.

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