From about November to March, the harmattan wind brings dry, dusty air. Skin loses water faster, so it can feel tight, look ashy, and crack on the heels, elbows and lips.
What helps
- Use lukewarm water rather than hot water, and keep baths and showers short. Hot water strips the skin's natural oils.
- Pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing.
- Put on body cream within a few minutes of bathing, while your skin is still slightly damp. This holds the water in.
- Use a richer cream at night, when your skin has hours to absorb it.
- Rub a little shea butter into heels, elbows, knees and lips, where skin cracks first.
- Drink water through the day, even when you don't feel hot.
When to get advice
If your skin stays very dry, cracked, itchy or sore for more than a couple of weeks, see a doctor or a pharmacist.
This is general advice, not medical advice.
