A harmattan hair routine that survives dry season

Harmattan does one thing to hair: it pulls water out of it. Every problem you get between November and February — brittleness, mid-shaft splits, a scalp that will not stop itching — traces back to that.

Swap one: water first, always

Stop applying product to dry hair. Mist with water or a water-based leave-in, then seal with an oil or butter. Product on dry hair sits on top and does nothing.

Swap two: heavier sealants

The light oil that works in July will not hold in January. Move to shea, castor or a thicker butter for the season and go back when the humidity returns.

Swap three: protective styling with a limit

Braids help, but four weeks is the limit before build-up and tension start costing you more than the protection gains. Moisturise your scalp while styled, not just at take-down.

Swap four: night care is not optional

A satin bonnet or pillowcase is the cheapest intervention in this entire article. Cotton pillowcases absorb everything you applied before bed.