By Prinscilla Bulu
Founder of Skin Foundation Africa, Dr. Kofi Ansah Brifo has shared key skincare tips for surviving the harsh Harmattan season, during an interview on GTV Breakfast Show on December 10, 2025.
He described the period as a time when many people experience dry skin, cracking, discomfort and even health-related concerns like asthma.
Speaking on the show, Dr. Brifo stressed that the “golden rule” of Harmattan beauty is knowing your unique skin type. According to him, many people spend large amounts of money on skincare products simply because a friend recommended them, without asking whether the product is suitable for their own skin.
“The skin is the largest organ and forms about 70% of what we are made of. It tells us how healthy we are,” he said. “But before using any product, you must know your skin type. Harmattan affects people differently, depending on the nature of their skin.”
Dr. Brifo explained that research conducted by Skin Foundation Africa three months ago showed that 70% to 80% of Ghanaians mostly in Accra do not know their skin type. In many cosmetic shops, he added, customers are only asked whether they are “fair or dark,” which leads to the wrong use of products. He warned that some of these products contain strong steroids that can damage the skin and cause long-term complications.
According to him, in order to help address these issues, the foundation has introduced projects such as the Summer Skin Project and the Skin Bleaching Recovery Project, which offer free consultations to people suffering from acne, bleaching damage and other skin concerns.
Dr. Brifo added that, most acne breakouts are the result of poor skincare habits and the misuse of products, not necessarily complicated medical conditions.
He also advised the public to be cautious when buying moisturizers this Harmattan, recommending products containing ceramides, shea butter, cholesterol, and natural moisturizing factors, which help strengthen the skin’s barrier. Ceramides alone, he noted, support about 50% of the skin barrier’s protective function.
Dr. Brifo further debunked the common belief that people with oily skin do not need moisturizers. He explained that everyone loses water through a natural process called transepidermal water loss, especially under the African sun. Whether oily or dry, all skin types need hydration especially during Harmattan when water loss increases.
He emphasized the need for public education and preventive skincare habits, stating that professionals must move beyond the consulting room and meet people where they are: on social media, on TV, and in their daily routines.
“We are not against any product,” he said. “We are here to empower you. Know your skin type, choose the right products, and protect your skin this season.”
Dr. Brifo concluded by encouraging viewers to adopt healthy skincare practices so they can go through the Harmattan season without complications.
