When you hear harmattan, what comes to your mind? The crusty lips and ghost-like skin? You are partly right but what you need is more hydration and you will be fine.
What exactly is the harmattan season? It is what I call the confused season. Just like Summer, Autumn, Winter and Spring in other parts of the world, harmattan is a season in West Africa.
It usually starts late November into the end of March in most cases, before the dry season starts.
It’s the lazy season.
Coupled with the dusty winds, it becomes chilly anytime of the day hence the word ‘Confused’. It’s characterized by cold, dry and dusty wind.
You find it hard to be under the shower anytime of the day, your bath water has to be steaming before you opt for the pleasure and when you are out, the cold wind hits you so hard, it’s difficult to keep up.
Do not forget the lines of diseases usually at this time. Because the wind is a bit strong and the weather is dry, you come up most times with sinus infection, cold and flu.
This as well doesn’t help the skin at all because it sucks all hydration from the skin leaving our skin surface looking dry, white and in most cases, cracks.
You will agree with me that this can be avoided no matter what the weather brings.
Your dress sense will automatically change with the weather.
Here are some dress styles you should always consider with harmattan.
Turtlenecks
This is a great necessity when it comes to winter, harmattan season. The weather, as confusing as it may be, will most times be chilly in the morning and unless you have some sort of heater in the body or you stay indoors 24/7, you might need to invest in turtlenecks. They cover up the important areas susceptible to cold.
Wooly scarves
This is an alternative to turtlenecks. In case you do not have one of those thick turtlenecks, this works too. Just be careful with your choices. Make the holes slightly bigger because a chilly morning could also come with a harsh sun later in the day.
Blazers
The big blazers, either cropped or mid length, are perfect for this season. You can always look sexy inside the blazers, with whatever inner wear you design. There are sexy, yet classy lingeries you can always pair with blazers. And when the weather becomes hot, you remove them, only to use them right back when it’s cold.
Sunglasses
This is a must for everyone, even when you do not like using one. The wind usually comes stronger during harmattan. Harsh winds carry harsh things. To avoid irritants caused by the weather. Use your sunglasses.
Pair of socks
This is not America, Russia or the United Kingdom but no one is going to hold you when you are seen with a pair of socks during this season. Many wear socks to avoid dust, while the others wear it to reduce cold getting to their system. It’s allowed, so protect your feets.
This is an exception from fashion items but your sunscreen should be your friend. Just as I mentioned earlier, the season is quite an unstable season. The early hours might be so cold you often wonder if it will remain that way but trust me, the sun rays that will hit you before noon will question your sanity.
Your sunscreen should be applied generously to your face, and any exposed part of the body.
