Keeping hydrated and feeling fresh during the summer is a challenge for anyone, and especially for those fasting during Ramadan, which starts just as the weather heats up in earnest in the UAE.
Taking extra special care of your skin is something to consider as you enter the holy month, just so it remains in good shape and has its best shot at looking glowing and health all the way until Eid.
Here are some tips to keeping your skin plump and hydrated during Ramadan:
1. Use sheet masks regularly: Stock up on these little skin savers (not like we weren’t buying them before Ramadan) and use them before bedtime a couple of times a week after cleansing. Pick ones that contain soothing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and peptides and you can look forward to super fresh skin in the morning. The Skin Republic Hyaluronic Acid + Collagen sheet mask (Dh29) is a good option as is available at most supermarkets and pharmacies.
2. Get a boost of vitamins: Maybe you’re getting all your vitamins and nutrients at iftar and suhour, maybe you aren’t. There’s no judgement here. We suggest use a vitamin-enriched facial spray such as the Pixi Vitamin Wakeup Mist (Dh79 on cultbeauty.com) in the morning for a boost and so that your skin can soak up all its goodness throughout the day. It has an orange blossom water base and contains citrus fruit extracts and lavender. If you can, spritz your face a few times during the day to keep the skin from getting dehydrated.
3. Indulge in a treatment: One great thing about this season is that loads of clinics are offering deals on face and body treatments. Dermatologist Dr Razan Kadry suggests the Hydrafacial, laser hair removal, and peels for melasma and rosacea, all of which won’t cause you to break your fast.
4. Get those electrolytes and minerals: Water is truly the best hydrator, but during Ramadan a little help won’t hurt. Up the nutrient intake with the help of coconut water and aloe vera juice, preferably unsweetened, which brings me to my next point.
5. Stay away from sugar: We know those sweet treats and soft drinks are hard to avoid, but excessive sugar intake is going to wreak havoc on your skin, making it more prone to breakouts. A little restraint in this department will go a long way to keeping your skin healthy. Substitute sweets with fresh and dried fruits for added nutrition and fibre.
