By Sarah Baafi
As harmattan’s dry winds sweep across Ghana, dermatologist Dr Kofi Ansah Brifo has shared expert advice on how to protect the skin during the season, stressing that even oily skin requires proper moisturisation.
Dr. Brifo, founder of the Skin Foundation and West Africa representative of the International Society of Dermatology (ISD), made the remarks while appearing on the GTV Breakfast Show during a discussion titled “Winning the Battle Against Harmattan Dryness.”
He explained that the harmattan season weakens the skin barrier due to a combination of low humidity, dust-laden winds and increased UV exposure.
“Harmattan has four main forces,” he said. “Low humidity causes rapid moisture loss, dry winds irritate and damage the skin barrier, dust blocks pores and leads to breakouts, while UV light worsens pigmentation and accelerates ageing.”
Dr Brifo debunked common misconceptions about skin types, noting that while skin type is largely genetic, environmental factors can worsen skin conditions, particularly during the harmattan season.
“Oily or shiny skin does not mean the skin is well moisturised,” he explained. “Even oily skin becomes drier during harmattan. You can lose between eight and 12 grams of water per square metre of skin every hour.”
Layered defence strategy
He outlined the importance of using moisturisers correctly, describing three key components:
- Humectants such as hyaluronic acid and urea, which attract and retain water
- Emollients such as shea butter and squalene, which smooth and soften the skin
- Occlusives such as petroleum jelly, which seal moisture into the skin
“Petroleum jelly is not a moisturiser,” he cautioned. “It does not add moisture; it only helps to retain what is already there.”
Addressing lip care, Dr Brifo advised against licking the lips, explaining that saliva enzymes worsen dryness. He recommended applying a moisturiser first and treating sores with topical antibiotics such as Bactroban or erythromycin when necessary.
Harmattan essentials
Dr Brifo advised the public to prioritise the following during the season:
- Sunscreen: SPF 30 or higher, with non-oily formulas for acne-prone skin
- Moisturisers: Rich, long-lasting creams for dry skin and lightweight, humectant-based layers for oily skin
- Routine care: Understanding that having an oily face and dry extremities is common due to differences in sebaceous gland distribution
He also warned that hyperpigmentation can worsen due to harmattan haze and advised consistent sunscreen use even on dusty days.
“Targeted sunscreen use during harmattan is essential to protect the skin and prevent long-term damage,” he said.
