Top 5 Common Skin Concerns in the UAE and Their Effective Solutions

Aisha, a young Emirati woman, recalls struggling with acne during her teenage years. “The hot weather and constant sweating made it difficult to keep my skin clear,” she shares. “I tried various over-the-counter products, but nothing seemed to work.

Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages, and the UAE’s climate can exacerbate it. Combining heat, humidity, and sweat can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.

Tips for Managing Acne

• Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove dirt and oil without stripping your skin. One of the best cleansers for UAE weather is Luxe Organix Miracle Solutions Acne Derm + Gel Cleanser. It contains Tea tree, Salicylic acid, Lactic acid, Niacinamide, and Glycolic acid leaving your skin, acne-free and smooth.
• Moisturize Wisely: Even oily skin needs hydration. Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that won’t clog pores.
• Consult a Dermatologist: If over-the-counter treatments aren’t helping, seek professional advice from a dermatologist.

Here are some of the most effective acne products to use:

• Skintific Mugwort Acne Clay stick Mask
• Oxecure Acne Clear Potion 
• Belo Acne Pro Pimple Patch

Top 2: Dry Skin: A Desert Dilemma

A recent study found that a significant percentage of UAE residents reported experiencing dry skin, especially during the winter months.

The low humidity levels in the UAE will leave your skin feeling parched and flaky, causing discomfort and potentially leading to other skin problems.

Strategies for Combating Dry Skin

• Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from within.
• Rich Moisturizers: Use a thick, nourishing moisturizer, especially after showering or bathing. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which help to lock in moisture. Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Water Gel is infused with peptide complex to help moisturize the skin. Another product to look into is the BIODANCE Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask, formulated with a unique blend of collagen, to replenish the moisture of the skin and restore its natural vitality.
• Limit Hot Showers: Hot water can strip your skin of natural oils. Opt for lukewarm showers instead.

Suitable Moisturizers for Dry Skin

• Cosrx Balancium Comfort Ceramide Cream
• Cosrx The Retinol 0.1 Cream
• Cosrx Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Mask
• Etude House Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream
• Heimish Marine Care Deep Moisture Nourishing Melting Cream

Top 3 & 4: Eczema and Psoriasis: Chronic Challenges

“Eczema and psoriasis can be exacerbated by the dry climate and extreme temperatures in the UAE. It’s important for individuals with these conditions to take proactive steps to manage their symptoms.” According to Dubai Derma.

Eczema and psoriasis are chronic skin conditions that can be particularly bothersome in the UAE. These conditions often involve itchy, red, and scaly patches of skin.

How to Manage Eczema and Psoriasis

• Identify Triggers: Pay attention to factors that can trigger flare-ups, such as stress, certain foods, or harsh skincare products.
• Moisturize Regularly: Keep your skin well-hydrated with a fragrance-free moisturizer. Use Neogen Dermalogy Real Ferment Micro Essence which is rich in Bifida Ferment Lysate, Betula Alba Juice, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, and Aspergillus/Rice Ferment Filtrate or Torriden Soothing Cream that has a low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Soothing Cream focuses on hydrating and soothing skin and preventing moisture loss
• Seek Medical Advice: Consult a dermatologist for personalized treatment recommendations, including topical medications or light therapy.

More products to try:

• Rovectin Skin Essentials Activating Treatment Lotion
• Snail White Sakura Hazel Soothing Essence Gel
• SNP Prep Peptaronic Cream
• Numbuzin No. 1 Pantothenic B5 Active Soothing Cream
• Missha Time Revolution Artemisia Treatment

Top 5: Rosacea: A Red-Faced Concern

Rosacea is a persistent skin condition characterized by redness, visible blood vessels, and occasionally bumps on the face. Triggers include sun exposure, spicy foods, and emotional stress.

How to Prevent Rosacea

• Sun Protection: Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. A’pieu Pure Block Natural Water-proof Sun Cream has SPF50 PA+++ and has Aloe Vera, Watermelon extracts, and Berry Blossom Complex to keep your skin hydrated while blocking the harmful UV rays. Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Sun Serum protects your skin against UV rays with SPF50+ PA++++ and has a lightweight texture that promotes rapid absorption without any sticky feeling.
• Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid factors that can exacerbate your rosacea, such as spicy foods or alcohol.
• Gentle Skincare: Use gentle, fragrance-free skincare products that won’t irritate your skin.

Best sunscreens to use in UAE weather:

• Mixsoon Centella Sun Cream
• Round Lab Moisture Mild Up Sunscreen
• Snail White CC Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA+++
• Foodaholic Sun Multi Sun Cream SPF50+ / PA+++

Remember, if you’re struggling with any skin concerns, don’t hesitate to contact a dermatologist. They’re experts who can provide personalized advice and treatment recommendations tailored to your needs. So, take control of your skin health and enjoy a radiant complexion in the UAE’s beautiful climate.