Skin Care Trends in the UAE

With a predominantly hot climate fuelled by a heavy reliance on air conditioning, the UAE is unique when it comes to taking optimal care of our skin. Here Dr. Hassan Galadari, Professor of Dermatology at the UAE University, Consultant Dermatologist and Head of Scientific Committee, Dubai Derma reveals his tips and advice for getting that gorgeous complexion you have always wanted.

What are the top skin care trends that are in vogue specifically in the UAE?

There are two trends that usually happen in the UAE. Some doctors are trendsetters and create their own trends and the patients follow through. The other is when doctors follow trends that are set by social influencers. The former is better as it holds some scientific value and background. The best is when the two are combined. For example, platelet rock plasma or PRP was found to work for wound healing and decrease the level of scarring. It was used to some benefit for skin rejuvenation and has become more popular when Kim Kardashian showcased it on her social media outlets. Other skin trends, are the “carbon” laser, which is really beneficial scientifically for dark spots and melanoma, but the social influences have found a way of making it popular for skin rejuvenation.

As the UAE’s climate is unique, what specific skin care measures should UAE residents consider taking in order to overcome any potential problems?

The most interesting part of the UAE is that the climate may be humid during the summer time, but genetically the people from the UAE have very dry skin and are prone to eczema and other related skin conditions. Also, the exposure of the sun throughout the year requires that a person apply sun protection in the form of sunscreen throughout the year even during the winter months.

Are there any healthy eating habits that will ensure that our skin is protected in the UAE environment?

Diet and skin health has been a matter of great research recently. It has been found that taking in certain foods that contain lycopene such as tomatoes help prevent the skin ageing process. Vitamin D remains deficient despite ample sunlight and it is highly recommended that the vitamin be taken through diet or supplementation rather than excessive exposure to the sun.