If harmattan had a motto, it would be “I’m here to dry you out!” As the cold, dusty winds sweep through, everything—your skin, hair, and yes, your lips—feels the brunt of its harsh embrace. Suddenly, that perfect lipstick isn’t sitting quite right because your lips are cracked, peeling, and in dire need of rescue.
But don’t worry; your lips don’t have to suffer this fate. With a little TLC, you can maintain soft, supple lips that make every smile harmattan-proof.
Scrub-a-dub: Exfoliate gently
Dry, chapped lips often need a reset, and that’s where exfoliation comes in. Use a gentle lip scrub (or make a DIY one with honey and sugar) to buff away dead skin. But don’t overdo it—once or twice a week is enough to keep your lips smooth without irritating them.
Hydrate like it’s a sport
We can’t emphasise this enough: water is your best friend during harmattan. It’s not just about hydrating your lips externally; drinking plenty of water ensures your body stays moisturised from within. Dehydration is a top culprit behind dry, cracked lips.
Balms are the bomb
Not all lip balms are created equal. Look for one with hydrating ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, or lanolin. A good balm creates a protective barrier against harmattan winds, locking in moisture and keeping your lips safe from cracking. And let’s be honest: this is the season to carry one in every bag.
Avoid licking your lips
It’s tempting to moisten your lips by licking them, but it’s a trap! The saliva evaporates quickly, leaving your lips drier than before. Instead, reapply your balm as often as needed.
Overnight lip love
Before bed, give your lips some extra love. Apply a thick layer of lip mask or balm to let it work its magic overnight. Waking up to soft, kissable lips? Yes, please!
Ditch the matte (for now)
We love a good matte lip as much as the next person, but harmattan isn’t the time. Matte lipsticks can be drying, so switch to hydrating lip tints, glosses, or creamy formulas that keep your lips moisturised.
Stay nourished
Foods rich in vitamins, especially vitamin E and C, are essential for keeping your lips healthy. Citrus fruits, nuts, and leafy greens should make regular appearances in your harmattan diet.
See a pro if you need to
Sometimes, cracked lips need more than TLC—they might require a dermatologist. If your lips are persistently dry or painful despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.
Harmattan may be tough, but it’s no match for a well-prepped lip care routine. With these tips, your lips will stay hydrated, healthy, and ready for all the holiday selfies. Now, go ahead—pucker up and show harmattan who’s boss!
