Prep your skin for Ramadan

Easy tips to ensure that your skin retains its flawless glow during the fasting period

With the Holy Month upon us, no better time than right now to change your skincare routine. The long fasting hours and hot climate can take a toll on your skin. Here are a few dos and don'ts to incorporate right away if you want to come out with glowing skin just in time for Eid.
Do away with matte lippies
Matte lipsticks take away a lot of the natural moisture from our lips. So, if you are a regular matte lippie user, you will have chapped and dry lips if you aren't moisturising regularly. During Ramadan, when water consumption is minimal during the day, it is best to avoid wearing a matte lipstick. Opt for glosses instead, that deliver moisture to the lips.
Beef up the serum
A good serum can work wonders during Ramadan if used regularly and in the right quantities. Make sure to apply a little bit of serum all over the face and neck each morning and night. I would recommend using something with Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid in the formula to brighten skin and avoid dullness and dryness.
Don't cake up
Avoid wearing a lot of makeup, such as thick foundations and concealers, during the day - especially if you're fasting. The combination of heat, dehydration and heavy makeup can cause breakouts. Instead, opt for products that are light and moisturising, such as BB creams and lip balms with added SPF.
Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is extremely essential for your skin during Ramadan, but it's something we tend to forget most easily. Try and consume a minimum of 2-3 litres of water during the non-fasting hours. Also, consider adding electrolytes to your diet.
Sneak in a facial
Take a little time off and book a facial at your preferred spa. If there was a time to get yourself a facial, it is during Ramadan. Any hydrating facial that delivers nutrients to your skin is a good idea. A hydrafacial, too, can work wonders: they're incredibly relaxing and the combination of exfoliation and serum infusion gives the skin a beautiful glow without stripping away natural oils.
Say NO to sugar
The month of Ramadan brings with it a host of sweet delicacies so tempting it is almost impossible to resist. What you might not know is that sugar in large quantities can cause serious ageing, skin breakouts and weakening of the immune system, ultimately leading to the breakdown of collagen and elastin that leads to saggy skin and wrinkles - you get the gist.
Skip the sun
Not only do the sun and heat cause dehydration (not what you want for beautiful skin), but they can also really stress out your skin. So, during the hot summer months, you should shun the sun. If you are running errands in the morning, try to avoid the sun and walk in the shade whenever you can and, of course, always apply sunblock to your skin before you head out.
wknd@khaleejtimes.com