A new continent is a thrilling experience filled with endless possibilities and opportunities. However, amidst the excitement of relocating, we often overlook its impact on our beauty routines. Starting a new life on a new continent brings with it a change in climate, environment, and the needs of our skin.
The past 16 months felt like I’ve been on a transformative rollercoaster of adapting my skincare routine. At the same time, I am playing around with a new concept of sentient beauty. With a blend of creativity, empathy, and an exploration of cult beauty here in the Middle East, I am back on that path of self-discovery and self-care in my new home, The Emirates.
As I stepped foot on a different continent, my skin began to react to the unfamiliar climate, humidity levels, and environmental factors. A shift in reevaluating my skincare routine was needed. At first, I saw it as a challenge, then as an opportunity to hunt more local independent cult beauty brands.
Cult beauty independent brands have gained devoted fans worldwide for their exceptional quality, innovation, and unique formulations. While my favorite cult beauty brands may not be as accessible in the Middle East, this opens the door to investigating the local situation. As always, I am engaged in product reviews, consult beauty communities, and explore independent beauty brands that capture the essence of the Middle East.
There is one thing in common all skincare obsessed have: we pay attention to our skin metamorphoses and address its evolving needs. I’ve noticed how my skin reacted to the new environment: dust, sand, (more) stress, AC, sun, hot wind, salt, water, chlorine, humidity, dryness, abrupt temperature changes, and excessive heat. And so, I adapt my skincare routine accordingly:
– To remove the dust, salt, chlorine, and sand, I became more diligent about the type of cleansers I was using and kept only the ones that really showed significant results, Sukin Signature Cleanser was one of them. I also bought myself a nice shower filter.
– AC, hot wind, and abrupt temperature changes have impacted my skin barrier, and so, for a while, I had to stop using retinol. As an expat in the UAE, Byoma helped me improve my skin barrier.
– Oil production has increased, and it has made me addicted to BHAs (like Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant) and clay masks.
– Obviously, sun spots became more stubborn, and I just cannot let go of Vitamin C.
– I introduced face mists to my routine11.
The Middle Eastern climate poses unique challenges for haircare, from dryness to frizz. I have increased the use of hair hydrating masks, continued using lightweight oils, and introduced heat protection sprays to my fine hair.
You get scared. The tendency is to act impulsively and to heal, correct, or improve your skin immediately. Amidst the changes and adjustments, remember to be gentle with yourself. I know I sometimes fail in doing so.
Adapting your skincare routine is an act of self-care, and self-awareness. Adopt empathy for yourself. It is a transformative experience.
There are millions of expat women like me in the Emirates. We must remember that our beauty routine reflects our unique story.
The Founder
If you are an expat in the Middle East facing skin concerns and want to share your story, send us a message at [email protected]
*Disclosure: I received no compensation for this review. This is solely based on my personal experience and assessment.
