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Over the last few years, skincare has earned the reputation of ‘rocket science’, thanks to many social media influencers, most of whom have no expertise, promoting multiple-step day and nighttime routines. The barrage of products available in the market makes it even more intimidating and often confusing.
We spoke to Bahrain-based experts, who highlighted that simple skincare practices, good lifestyle choices, and using just the required number of products based on your skin type are all you need for healthy, good-looking skin. Natural remedies and practices that can be easily followed are also helpful. Especially now that the weather is changing and we’re headed towards the dry winter season.
“A common skincare mistake we see is people using hundreds of expensive products. When it comes to skincare, less is more,” Bahraini dermatologist Dr Mariam Baqi told GulfWeekly.
“I have seen people using three types of moisturisers when one is enough. They do not use any antioxidant serums or anti-ageing serums, which are essential, ideally starting from one’s early 30s” she added.
“In the morning, keep it simple with a good antioxidant serum and sunscreen. For the night, use a good wash (facewash and cleanser), serum and cream. Then focus on targeted treatment, so, if you have acne or pigmentation or undereye concerns, use a product for it (always consulting your dermatologist). In the night, our skin repairs and regenerates and so a night routine is equally important.”
The Nadhara Skin Centre founder and clinical director highlighted that several people tend to omit moisturisers – especially those having oily and combination skin.
“It is a myth that people with these skin types must not use a moisturiser – they need to consult with their dermatologist and choose a product that works for them. Additionally, it is important to use a moisturiser all year round and not just during the winter.”
The former Bahrain Dermatology Association vice president underpinned that as winter approaches, dry, itchy and flaky skin are the most common problems, especially among women over 30 who wear makeup, and children between three to 10 years with a family history of dry skin.
She advised a good skincare routine, optimal internal and external hydration, and a healthy lifestyle and diet incorporating essential fats to repair the skin barrier – the outermost layer that protects against environmental damage and helps retain moisture.
“Drinking sufficient water (intake depends on various factors like age and level of physical activity) and moisturising the skin are important,” she added.
Srisoukya Ayurvedic Centre alternative medicine practitioner Dr Goury Rajendran recommended self-massage with nut oils as a natural moisturiser.
“Sesame oil suits most skin types and helps with dryness. Almond oil is a good option and can even be used on the face,” she noted, adding that those who have acne must not apply the oil on the active acne and must wash off the oil soon after the massage.
Dr Goury warned that skin infections are common during climate changes and advised adding neem-based essential oil to bath water.
Other recommendations included a climate-appropriate diet and clothing. Roasted or soaked nuts can be included in one’s daily diet and sesame seeds are good too. Warm drinks or herbal teas are also helpful to keep skin healthy and moisturised, she noted.
l Skincare is unique to each individual and it is best to consult your dermatologist first.
