A leading Ghanaian dermatologist has cautioned the public against common skincare misconceptions during the harmattan season, stressing that poor understanding of skin hydration is contributing to widespread skin damage, particularly among people with darker skin tones.
Speaking on the GTV Breakfast Show as part of the OKUMPE™ Harmattan Series, Dr Kofi Ansah Brifo, Founder of Skin Foundation Africa, explained that harmattan is not merely an uncomfortable period of dry winds and dust but a significant environmental stressor that disrupts the skin’s natural barrier.
According to Dr Brifo, the low humidity, cold, dry air, dust particles, and persistent ultraviolet radiation characteristic of harmattan significantly increase transepidermal water loss, leading to dryness, itching, eczema flares, premature ageing, and pigmentary disorders.
“Harmattan is a true test of how well we understand and care for our skin. Many people mistake shine for hydration, but these are not the same,” he noted.
Petroleum jelly misunderstood
Addressing one of the most common skincare practices in Ghana, Dr Brifo clarified that petroleum jelly does not moisturise the skin.
“Petroleum jelly is an effective occlusive. It reduces water loss by forming a protective seal, but it does not add water to the skin. When applied on dry skin alone, it simply seals in dryness,” he explained.
He added that while petroleum jelly remains a useful product, its benefits are maximised only when applied over properly hydrated skin or used selectively on areas such as the lips and severely dry patches.
Heightened risk for skin of colour
Dr Brifo highlighted that individuals with skin of colour are particularly affected during harmattan. While darker skin types may appear shiny, underlying dehydration often persists, leading to ashiness, chronic itching and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
“Inflammation from untreated dryness stimulates pigment production, which is why many people develop dark patches after harmattan,” he said.
Common harmattan skincare errors
Drawing from clinical experience, Dr Brifo identified several harmful practices common during the season, including the use of harsh soaps, frequent hot showers, skipping sunscreen due to reduced sunlight intensity, and misuse of topical steroid creams for dry skin.
“These habits worsen barrier damage and turn a preventable problem into a chronic skin condition,” he warned.
Expert-recommended harmattan skincare approach
Dr Brifo advised the public to adopt a layered, science-based skincare routine:
- Gentle cleansing with non-stripping products
• Immediate hydration using humectant-rich moisturisers
• Barrier repair with ceramides and emollients
• Strategic sealing with petroleum jelly where necessary
• Daily use of sunscreen despite harmattan haze
Call for public education
He emphasised that platforms such as the GTV Breakfast Show play a crucial role in improving skin health outcomes through education, especially in regions with limited access to dermatology services.
“Skincare during harmattan is not cosmetic indulgence; it is preventive medicine,” Dr Brifo stated.
As harmattan intensifies across the country, dermatologists urge the public to pay closer attention to their skin, noting that dryness, itching and pigmentation changes are signals that should not be ignored.
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