How to Cope With Harmattan

Winter is coming!

Well, close enough. Harmattan is here and will be around for a while till just after the holidays when the haze will go back from whence it came.

Harmattan season always takes some getting used to every time it arrives, regardless of the fact that it shows up, like clock work, around the same time every year. One moment, you're battling with the sweltering heat that is prevalent as the rainy season ebbs out and the next moment, a haze appears and the ambient temperature drops. It shows up without warning - pleasantly so too.

But Harmattan requires a different set of rule though - a tweak in your routine, if you will. Without a coping mechanism in place, it can be a bit of a nuisance.

The following are coping mechanisms of systems for adapting to the harmattan:

1. Get Thick-layered Clothing. This is practically sweatshirts season. Rock jackets, mufflers, and other thick-layered clothing to shield your skin from the cold and make a fashion statement while you're at it.

2. Balms and Creams: You will need to get lip balms or glosses to protect them from getting chafed. Also, regardless of your skin type, you're going to require a moisturizing cream for your skin to prevent excessive dryness. Hand creams for your hands and a non-alcoholic type face cleanser. Non alcoholic because the alcohol in the regular cleansers typically dry or kill your facial skin cells. Couple that with a weather that basically rids your skin of moisture and you'll get the idea.

It is especially important to keep these things in handy (in your carry-on bag) when you travel for the holiday or are checking into a hotel as they will prove invaluable to you.

3. Sunglasses: Sunglasses don't even need a reason or a season to be cool. Unless you're indoors, of course. But, beyond being a cool fashion accessory, sunglasses will come in handy as a way to shield your eyes from the dust and haze that will be prevalent this period.

4. Sparks and Fire Hazard Alert: Fires incidents are more likely to occur this season than any other because of the dry, ionisable air. And fire thrives in this kind of air. Be sure to keep an eye on all electrical appliances in your home and office to disconnect them when not in use. Get fires extinguishers for your car, home and office, and get in touch with the fire service when you notice a fire incident in your neighbourhood.