How to Prevent Skin Cracks & Fissures in Harmattan: A Dermatologist’s Advice
Harmattan’s dry winds and low humidity are a recipe for skin trouble. Without enough moisture, your skin’s natural barrier weakens, leaving it prone to painful cracks or fissures. Dermatologists agree that preventing these fissures requires a focused, barrier‑repair strategy. Here’s how to do it right.
7 Ways to Prevent Skin Cracks During Harmattan
Cleaning with Lukewarm Water and Within a Short Period
Dermatologists recommend keeping showers or washes to 5–10 minutes, using lukewarm water instead of hot. Hot water strips the skin of its natural oils, accelerating dryness and damage. Use a gentle, fragrance‑free cleanser, preferably with very mild surfactants, to avoid further irritation. After washing, pat your skin dry gently; avoid rubbing, which can worsen cracks.
Moisturise Immediately and Often
Within a few minutes of cleansing (while your skin is still slightly damp), apply a rich moisturiser to seal in the moisture. This moment is critical to trap the water your skin still holds. Choose creams or ointments (rather than light lotions) containing barrier-repairing ingredients. For example, ceramides help rebuild the skin’s lipid structure. Humectants like glycerin, hyaluronic acid pull moisture into the skin. Occlusives such as petrolatum or shea butter lock in that moisture.
Avoid Irritants and Harsh Products
Avoid using skincare products with alcohol, strong fragrances, or exfoliating acids during the harmattan. These can further weaken your skin’s barrier. When doing household chores or exposing your hands to harsh conditions, protect your skin with gloves. Also, wear soft, breathable fabrics (like cotton) close to the skin to reduce friction that can aggravate fragile, dry areas.
Improve Humidity Around You
Because the harmattan air is naturally dry, experts advise using a humidifier indoors to help restore moisture to your environment and your skin. Keeping air humidity at a comfortable level reduces stress on your skin barrier, making fissures less likely.
Treat Cracks Thoughtfully
If cracks do appear, don’t ignore them. Dermatologist Dr Seema Oberoi Lall notes that frequent washing with harsh soaps worsens fissures, so minimise unnecessary washing. Apply thick, fragrance-free moisturisers or petroleum jelly to affected areas, sometimes more than once a day. In severe cases, such as bleeding or deep fissures, see a dermatologist: they may prescribe healing dressings or medicated creams
Hydrate From the Inside
Good skincare starts internally. Drinking enough water helps maintain skin hydration, but so does eating foods rich in healthy fats like omega-3 acids. These support your skin’s natural lipid barrier.
Don’t Forget Your Lips and Feet
Lips and the skin around your heels or hands often suffer the most in dry seasons. Use a lip balm with occlusives and apply a richer cream or ointment on hands and feet. You can even wear cotton socks or gloves at night to help the moisturising product absorb better.
Bottom line
Cracks and fissures during harmattan are uncomfortable, but with consistent care focused on gently cleansing, sealing in moisture, protecting, and healing, you can maintain a strong, supple skin barrier. If the cracks are deep or painful, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist. Sometimes prescription treatments or dressings are needed to heal properly.
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