Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, discipline, and community, but the extended hours of fasting, particularly in the UAE’s warm climate, can affect your skin, leading to dehydration, dullness, and breakouts. The good news is that with the right skincare routine, proper hydration strategies, and mindful eating habits, you can maintain a fresh, radiant complexion throughout the holy month.
Start your day with a skincare regimen focused on hydration and protection:
1. Hydrating Cleanser – Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or aloe vera to cleanse without drying the skin.
2. Refreshing Toner – Apply a soothing toner with ingredients like rose water, chamomile, or green tea to calm and restore your skin’s pH balance.
3. Antioxidant Serum – Use vitamin C to brighten the complexion and protect against environmental stressors.
4. Lightweight Moisturiser – Opt for a gel-based or water-based moisturiser to lock in hydration without a greasy feeling.
5. Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen (SPF 50+) – Essential in the UAE! Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen, reapplying every 2-3 hours.
After a day of fasting, your skin needs replenishment and repair:
1. Double Cleansing – Begin with an oil-based cleanser to remove sunscreen and makeup, followed by a gentle foaming or cream cleanser to cleanse the pores deeply.
2. Hydrating Serum – Apply a serum with hyaluronic acid or peptides to restore moisture lost throughout the day.
3. Night Cream or Face Oil – Use a rich moisturiser containing ceramides and squalane, or a few drops of rosehip or argan oil for deep hydration.
4. Lip & Eye Care – Keep lips hydrated with a nourishing balm and apply an under-eye cream with caffeine to reduce puffiness and dark circles.
Additional tips:
- Hydrate wisely: Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water between Iftar and Suhoor.
- Incorporate water-rich foods such as cucumber, watermelon, oranges, and lettuce to boost hydration.
- Avoid caffeine and salty foods, as they can dehydrate the skin.
- Choose lightweight, non-comedogenic skincare to prevent breakouts.
- Opt for water-based moisturisers, particularly for oily or combination skin.
- Avoid direct sun exposure between 12-4pm and wear protective accessories like hats and sunglasses when outdoors.
- Use a hydrating face mask (such as honey, aloe vera, or yogurt-based) 2-3 times a week for enhanced radiance.
- If your skin feels excessively dry, apply a few drops of rosehip or argan oil before bed.
- Consider using a humidifier in your bedroom to maintain moisture levels overnight.
- Gently exfoliate 1-2 times a week to remove dead skin cells and enhance your skin’s glow.
