Top Tips for Managing Dry Skin in Nigeria

Dry skin is a daily battle for many Nigerians, especially when the harmattan winds kick in. However, having dry skin is not a bad thing or a disease. It is a condition in which there is less moisture in the skin compared to other skin types, which makes the skin dry and tight. Everyone loves shining, well-moisturized skin, but you might not know that harsh weather, hard water, and the wrong skincare habits can cause and lead to dry skin.

In this guide, we’ll share practical, Nigeria-specific tips for managing dry skin in Nigeria. We will also discuss some of the best skincare products for dry-skinned Nigerians and the natural/organic remedies you can use.

What is Dry Skin?

The skin needs water (or moisture) to glow, retain skin elasticity and firmness, support repair, reduce irritation and detoxify the skin. But what happens when that essential moisture is missing or stripped away? Dry Skin.

When moisture and skin oils dry up, your skin becomes parched, tight and rough. This could lead to symptoms like:

• Scales on your skin
• Itches
• Rough skin texture
• Wrinkled skin
• Peeling skin
• Skin cracks.

Dry skin is usually not a cause for concern, and it can happen to anyone regardless of how moisturized your skin is currently. However, with the right skincare routine and consistency, you can manage dry skin issues and regain healthy, moisturized skin.

Causes of Dry Skin

In Nigeria, here are common causes of dry skin:

• Hot & Dry Weather
• Overexposure to the Sun
• Hard Water
• Harsh Soaps & Skincare Products
• Lack of Moisturizing
• Poor Diet & Dehydration
• Air Conditioners & Fans
• Medical Conditions

Hot & Dry Weather

Nigeria’s climate, particularly in the northern regions, is characterized by high temperatures and low humidity. And during the harmattan season, it becomes hotter and drier. The lack of humidity in the hot air disrupts the skin’s natural barrier and leaves your skin dry and flaky as it strips moisture from the skin.

Overexposure to the Sun

Sunlight in Nigeria is intense year-round, and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is a significant cause of dry skin. UV radiation damages the skin’s outer layer and reduces its ability to hold moisture. This results in dry, rough, and sometimes sunburns on the skin. Also excessive sun exposure also compromises the skin's ability to stay hydrated, increasing the chances of skin aging.

Hard Water

Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, and as a land filled with many mineral resources, many parts of Nigeria have hard water. Although it is not harmful to your health, hard water can leave a residue on the skin, which could clog your pores and disrupt the skin’s natural oils.

Harsh Soaps & Skincare Products

Some of the common products produced in Nigeria contain alcohol, sulfates, or fragrances. These strong soaps and products can be overly drying and strip the skin of its natural oils. Also, some skincare products may not be suitable for certain skin types and could cause irritation when used.

Lack of Moisturizing

Moisturizing is essential for maintaining the skin’s hydration, but many Nigerians don’t even have a skincare routine, while others neglect this step in their routine. Without regular moisturizing, the skin loses its ability to retain water, especially in dry climates or during harmattan, when the skin needs extra hydration.

Poor Diet & Dehydration

A diet lacking essential nutrients, such as vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can negatively affect skin health. Also, dehydration does not affect your internal organs; it is also a cause of dry skin.

Air Conditioners & Fans

Air conditioners and fans provide relief from the heat for more comfort. Surprisingly, they can also contribute to dry skin. These devices create a dry environment by reducing humidity in the air and drawing moisture from the skin. Prolonged exposure to air-conditioned or fan-driven environments can leave the skin feeling parched and uncomfortable.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, like eczema, psoriasis, and hypothyroidism, can cause dry skin. These conditions affect the skin’s ability to retain moisture or disrupt its natural barrier function.

Daily Skincare Routine for Dry Skin

Dry skin requires consistent care and attention to maintain its moisture balance and prevent irritation. A well-structured daily skincare routine can help restore hydration, strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, and keep it soft. Here’s an effective dry skin care routine you can follow:

• Cleanse gently: Start your day by cleansing your skin with a mild, hydrating cleanser. Great options include CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser and Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel.
• Toning: After cleansing, use toners with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, or rose water to balance your skin’s pH levels and prepare it for the next steps. A recommended product is Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Toner.
• Moisturizing: This is the most important step in your skincare routine. Choose a rich, nourishing moisturizer containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, or ceramides to lock in moisture and repair the skin barrier. Two great options are Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream and Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream.
• Sun protection: Sun protection products like La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen SPF 50 and Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 50 are lightweight, non-greasy, and strong enough for sun protection.
• Nighttime Repair: At night, focus on repairing and replenishing your skin while you sleep. After cleansing and toning, use a richer moisturizer or a hydrating night cream. To attract and lock moisture into your skin, you can use Nivea Soft Moisturizing Cream or The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum.
• Lukewarm Showers: Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils. Opt for lukewarm water and limit your bathing time to 10-15 minutes daily.
• Humidifier for Dry Indoor Air: If you spend a lot of time in air-conditioned or fan-driven environments, consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air.

Natural Remedies for Dry Skin in Nigeria

Here are tested and trusted DIY dry skin remedies in Nigeria. However, due to differences in skin types, it is important to contact a professional dermatologist before applying any of these due to differences in skin types.

1. Shea Butter (Ori)

Shea butter is rich in vitamins A, E, and F and fatty acids, all of which are great for nourishing the skin and maintaining the skin’s barrier. Apply raw, unrefined shea butter directly to your skin after a shower or bath for maximum hydration.

2. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a great skin moisturizer, but it has been misused due to negligence. However, it remains a working remedy. It contains lauric acid, which is scientifically proven to provide deep hydration specifically for dry skin. Use virgin or cold-pressed coconut oil as a moisturizer, or mix it with shea butter for an extra-hydrating blend.

3. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera naturally draws moisture to the skin and is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that soothe and heal dry, irritated skin. It also improves skin elasticity and hydration while reducing redness. You can use fresh aloe vera gel directly from the plant or purchase pure aloe vera gel from stores. Apply it to your skin after cleansing and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off or layering with a moisturizer.

4. Honey

Honey is another natural remedy that attracts moisture to the skin and seals it in. It is rich in antioxidants and has antibacterial properties, which makes it ideal for soothing and healing dry, damaged skin. Apply raw honey directly to your skin as a mask, leave it on for 15-20 minutes, and rinse off with lukewarm water.

5. Drinking Water and Hydrating Foods

Avoiding and maintaining dry skin is not about the outward appearance alone but also about making your skin layers moisturized and hydrated. Drink lots of water and eat hydrating foods like watermelon, oranges and cucumber to maintain skin moisture.

What’s Next?

Now that you know everything you need to know about dry skin and how to tackle it, it’s time to enter a skincare store, get the products you need and begin your skincare journey. However, before starting, you need to visit a qualified dermatologist who can give you further advice and help your journey easier and smoother.

At Beyond MedPlus, we don’t just sell the best and most affordable skincare products; we also offer advice—from qualified personnel—you need to get started and get to your skincare goals fast. Visit any of our stores today or contact us, and we’ll get you started.