New York vibes via Abu Dhabi.
When we’re not copying New York-based hijabi style star Maria Al Sadek’s outfits, we’re scoping out her makeup looks.
Both rely on her expert use of bold colours, whether they’re in her clothes or on her face. Few can work a bright orange lip – or a powder blue eyeshadow – so well.
Read:
Malala ranks among the world’s most admired women of 2018
This luxury beauty brand is expanding into haircare (and it’s now in the UAE)
The good news for us is that Al Sadek, who lived in Abu Dhabi as a teen, has opened up to US beauty site Into The Gloss on her exact skincare and beauty routine.
Place your credit card well out of reach while reading this. It’s a goodie.
Skincare
It all starts with the right skincare for Al Sadek, who tells Into The Gloss she makes sure to follow a good routine and use sunscreen daily.
“When I’m cleansing my face, I’m always into more delicate formulas that don’t completely strip my skin of its natural oils,” she says.
Unfortunately the two she names – Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser and Tatcha The Deep Cleanse – don’t ship to the UAE, but they’re ones to look out for when next you’re travelling.
Serum-wise, Al Sadek rates Sunday Riley CEO Rapid Flash Brightening Serum (Dhs370) and Good Genes (Dhs446).
“It’s described as a clarifying, line-smoothing lactic acid treatment and it does not lie. I started using this almost three years ago and I really think it plays a huge role in the state of my skin today,” she says of Good Genes. Noted.
Al Sadek also rates Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil (Dhs236), and for everyday she goes for Saturday Skin Featherweight Daily Moisturising Cream (Dhs193).
Makeup
Al Sadek’s pick for foundation is one you’ll have heard mentioned around these parts before: Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation (Dhs245).
“If you haven’t tried this, you’re seriously missing out on some perfect luminous coverage,” she tells Into The Gloss.
For concealer, it’s Lancome Teint Idol Ultra Wear Camouflage (Dhs122), and blush is Chantecaille Cheek Shade in Grace (Dhs159).
On the eyes, Al Sadek has one true mascara love.
“Anyone who knows me knows my obsession with Le Volume De Chanel… It’s hard to explain, but basically this mascara does EVERYTHING,” she says. “Lengthens, darkens, separates, and thickens, all while not clumping or looking heavy.”
It’s Dhs126.
Al Sadek finishes her look with Lancome Dual Finish Highlighter in Sparkling Peche (Dhs159) and Giorgio Armani Ecstasy Shine in Nuda (Dhs180).
Hair
“Although I cover my hair while in public, I still love taking great care of it,” Al Sadek tells Into The Gloss.
One of her favourites, Ouai Rose Hair & Body Oil (Dhs150) is a recent release we’ve had our eyes on. Al Sadek also enjoys Drybar Sake Bomb Nourishing Shampoo (Dhs95) and Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Conditioner (Dhs102).
She always air-dries her hair, which those of us who have been known to dry our hair with daily blow-outs could do to learn from.
Hey, if all this ends up with style on Al Sadek’s level, we’ll take it.
Images: Maria Alia/Instagram
