Nahla Zayed By: Nahla Zaied
Between long fasting hours during Ramadan and the scorching summer heat, keeping your skin hydrated can be a real challenge. Dehydration can lead to dryness, dullness, and irritation, making a proper skincare routine essential. To help us navigate these concerns, we sat down with Dr. Nancy El Khakhy, a leading dermatologist, to get her expert advice on how to maintain glowing, well-hydrated skin during this demanding season.
Fasting for long hours can take a toll on our skin’s hydration. What are the key steps to keep our skin moisturized throughout the day?
Key Steps to Keep Skin Moisturized Throughout the Day
To keep your skin moisturized throughout the day, follow these key steps:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from the inside out.
- Use a gentle, non-foaming cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
- Apply a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer immediately after cleansing to lock in moisture.
- Reapply moisturizer throughout the day, especially after performing wudu.
- Avoid harsh products that contain alcohol, artificial fragrances, or dyes.
Avoid harsh products that contain alcohol, artificial fragrances, or dyes.
With summer heat intensifying the effects of dehydration, how can we protect our skin from both dryness and sun damage?
Protecting Skin from Dryness and Sun Damage
To protect your skin from both dryness and sun damage, follow these tips:
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply every two hours.
- Wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved shirt, when spending time outdoors.
- Seek shade, especially during peak sun hours (10am-4pm).
Are there any specific ingredients we should look for in skincare products to boost hydration during Ramadan and summer?
Ingredients to Boost Hydration
When looking for skincare products to boost hydration during Ramadan and summer, seek out ingredients like:
- – Hyaluronic acid: A natural humectant that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water.
- – Ceramides: Natural lipids that help repair and restore the skin’s barrier function.
- – Niacinamide: A form of Vitamin B3 that has been shown to improve skin hydration and elasticity.
- – Glycerin: A humectant that helps attract and retain moisture in the skin.
What role does diet play in keeping our skin hydrated while fasting? Are there any foods you recommend including in suhoor and iftar?
Diet’s Role in Keeping Skin Hydrated
Diet plays a role in keeping your skin hydrated while fasting. Include foods rich in:
- – Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish, nuts, and seeds, these healthy fats help reduce inflammation and promote skin health.
- – Antioxidants: Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, and other fruits and vegetables, help combat free radicals and promote skin health.
- – Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, bell peppers, and broccoli, Vitamin C helps boost collagen production and improve skin hydration.
- – Healthy fats: Include sources of healthy fats, such as avocado, olive oil, and nuts, to help keep your skin hydrated and plump.
Some people experience dull or flaky skin during Ramadan. What are common mistakes that lead to excessive dryness, and how can we avoid them?
Common Mistakes Leading to Excessive Dryness
Common mistakes that lead to excessive dryness include:
- – Over-washing or using harsh cleansers that strip the skin of its natural oils.
- – Not moisturizing immediately after cleansing or bathing.
- – Using products that contain alcohol, artificial fragrances, or dyes.
- – Not staying hydrated by drinking enough water.
- – Not adjusting your skincare routine to accommodate the changing weather conditions.
For those with busy schedules, what is a simple yet effective skincare routine that ensures hydration without being time-consuming?
Simple yet Effective Skincare Routine
For a simple yet effective skincare routine that ensures hydration without being time-consuming, follow these steps:
- – Cleanse your face with a gentle, non-foaming cleanser.
- – Apply a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer immediately after cleansing.
- – Reapply moisturizer throughout the day, especially after performing wudu.
- – Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 before heading outdoors.
- – Exfoliate once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.
Dr. Nancy’s insights highlight the importance of hydration both inside and out. With the right routine and habits, achieving healthy, radiant skin during Ramadan and summer is easier than you think!
