Inspiring women we know discuss the skincare essentials they do not deviate from.
Joud Odeh
Founder – Brau
What are the non-negotiables staples in your skincare routine?
The skincare routines I always abide by are, taking my make up off before going to bed, applying SPF every morning and using a cleanser every morning and evening.
What product is your forever non-negotiable?
I’ve been using the Pixi Glow Tonic for years. I use it every morning after my cleanser, it helps remove dead skin cells and softens the skin prior to my moisturizer application.
What lifestyle habits that support your skin are non-negotiable?
My non-negotiables for my skin are drinking plenty of water, getting a good amount of sleep, applying SPF every morning and a deep cleansing and hydrating facial once a month.
Dr. Barbara Sturm
Founder – Dr Barbara Stum
What are the non-negotiables staples in your skincare routine?
My philosophy is that every skincare routine, regardless of age or gender should combat inflammation, deeply hydrate and nurture the skin and be packed with highly active anti-aging properties without the use of aggressive ingredients. The most basic skincare regimen requires, Cceansing with my CLEANSER, and alternating with an exfoliator twice a week, like my FACIAL SCRUB or ENZYME CLEANSER, to gently slough off dead skin and impurities; the second is applying a Hyaluronic Acid-based serum that’s packed with potent, active ingredients which replenish moisture reservoirs and promote the skin’s barrier function, like my HYALURONIC SERUM; and ending with a great moisturizer like my FACE CREAM. A modern, innovative skincare routine always includes a serum as well as a face cream – it should never replace it – both are necessary. And my SUN DROPS SPF 50 is a necessity even on cloudy days for broad spectrum sun protection. That’s just five products and it’s enough to cover the skin’s fundamental needs.
What product is your forever non-negotiable?
My products are like my children – I can’t choose a favorite – but if I had to it would be my HYALURONIC SERUM. Hydration is the core of my philosophy, and my serum is so fundamental, I call it the ‘white t-shirt’ of my skincare line. It contains a powerful blend of high, medium and low weighted Hyaluronic Acid molecules which deliver immediate, firming moisture to the surface and deeper layers of the skin and leaves your complexion feeling instantly refreshed and radiant. My formula also contains Purslane – it’s packed full of anti-inflammatory nutrients and antioxidants such as omega-3 fatty acids and skin-beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium and potassium. Purslane is also known to be a telomerase activator – an enzyme capable of creating new protective ends on cellular chromosomes called telomeres. These have been studied by Harvard to not only slow the aging process but reverse it to provide the ultimate anti-aging result.
What lifestyle habits that support your skin are non-negotiable?
Getting inflammation under control is essential for overall body and skin health. Following an anti-inflammatory lifestyle and skincare routine is the best route to staying healthy. It includes eating a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, enjoying daily exercise and reducing stress through techniques such as meditation. Prioritising a good night’s sleep is also another non-negotiable part of my beauty regime. At night our skin regenerates, producing more collagen and growth hormone and less skin-harming cortisol, making this a critical period for cellular rejuvenation and related processes. I don’t drink much, I don’t eat big, heavy meals close to bedtime and I do not look at a digital device close to bedtime – the blue light emitted from screens triggers the fight or flight hormone Cortisol that keeps you awake. I also take my Good Night supplements before bed. It’s a blend of natural active ingredients that relax the body and mind and helps you fall asleep sooner and deeper.
Haneen Odeh,
Founder – Snob Salon
What are the non-negotiables staples in your skincare routine?
Moisturiser and cleanser for sure. As someone with dry skin, I really struggle without daily moisture, so I never go a day without it. Cleanser is an extremely important step, and even without makeup, pollution will clog up your pores and cause breakouts so don’t skip the cleanser!
What product is your forever non-negotiable?
This is a tough one! It’s really hard to narrow it down to one product but I’m going to say the Weleda Skin Food because it’s multi-purpose, so I can use it as a moisturizer for the face, and for cuticles, elbows, and any other dry areas. I also use it sometimes as a highlighter for a dewy look on my cheeks or to seal the ends of my hair if they look a bit dry and frizzy. I always keep one in my bag.
What lifestyle habits that support your skin are non-negotiable?
Never go to bed without cleansing your skin, don’t skip your sunscreen, and healthy fats are really good for you so make sure you eat a nutritious diet for better skin! A bad diet always shows up on your face.
Barkha Shewakramani
Founder – Barkha Beauty
What are the non-negotiables staples in your skincare routine?
My skin tends to be very dry and sensitive due to lupus and the medications I’m on hence the products I apply on my skin have to be very carefully chosen. My absolute non-negotiable staples in my skincare routine are – Bepanthen Derma Replenish lotion, Carmex lip balm, Elta MD sunblock, Agent Nateur holi oil and Micellar makeup remover by Embyosis.
What product is your forever non-negotiable?
My most non-negotiable product would surely be my Agent Nateur Holi face oil.
What lifestyle habits that support your skin are non-negotiable?
I maybe staying the obvious here but less is more for me , so instead of 20 skincare steps that are hard to follow just incorporate the basic habits . Like hydrate your skin and body from within by drinking lot of water , always apply sun block during the day, use a good CFE serum for anti aging and nourishment , I use Skinceuticals.
Tamara Jabi
Head of PR & Communication – Sunday Riley Middle East
What are the non-negotiables staples in your skincare routine?
There are three products that are my absolute Holy Grail when it comes to my skincare routine. No doubt, all three are Sunday Riley products, because nothing has made my skin a 10/10 more than when using their range. The first has to be the award-winning Good Genes, a lactic acid treatment that deeply exfoliates and gives you that instant glow (I always get compliments on my skin whenever I use this product). Next is Sunday Riley’s Auto Correct eye cream. It is loved by so many and for good reason. The caffeine ingredient in this product is the real game changer here and makes my under eyes less puffy and bright. Lastly, I would have to give a special mention to my go-to retinol oil, Luna, for my evening routine. I love it because it’s balanced with natural botanical essential oils like blue tansy and chamomile so it’s gentle on my skin barrier and doesn’t feel harsh. Aside from the products themselves, the application method and order of how I apply my skincare products is also crucial. Sometimes learning what works for you can be a journey, it may take some time, but once you nail your routine, it’s the best feeling ever,
What product is your forever non-negotiable?
This is a tough one to choose. But, I would have to say Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment. There’s just nothing like it. Desert island skincare product choice for sure!
What lifestyle habits that support your skin are non-negotiable?
I am an avid believer of taking care of yourself from the inside out, meaning, if I’m ever facing any issues, whether that has to do with my skin, or my mental state in the form of stress and anxiety, the first thing I do is look inwards. Firstly, I check to see how my diet is doing. If I’m not being healthy with my food at least 70% of the time, then I know my skin will suffer the consequences. So, once I rule that out, these are the three things I make sure I’m also doing to support healthy, glowing skin. The first being exercising as sometimes all I need is a good sweat session and suddenly I’ve got super clear skin (plus there’s nothing like that high endorphin release post-workout). However, I will note that I always make sure to wash my face with a gentle cleanser after a workout! This is a must. The second is hydrating – Seems so simple, but so impactful. Drinking enough water is such an underestimated way for you to take care of yourself and your skin. I mean, our body is made up of about 60% of it, so it only seems natural to replenish it consistently (especially after those late-night outings at Honeycomb HiFi. The third is routine checkups on my gut health – more and more studies are coming out linking your gut health to other parts of your body, including your brain, and I truly believe this is not to be taken lightly. If your gut is healthy, likely your face and body will face less internal and external issues.
Claire Miller
Founder -The Skincare Edit Arabia
What are the non-negotiable staples in your skincare routine?
A gentle cleanser, a multi-functional serum and a great SPF. Three perfected essentials delivering clean, protected, hydrated skin.
What product is your forever non-negotiable?
Votary Rose and Apricot Cleansing Oil. It’s a joy to use, incredibly effective and effortless. It starts my skincare ritual on the right note every time, helping me stay consistent even on the busiest days.
What lifestyle habits that support your skin are non-negotiable?
Beauty sleep is always a top priority for me as part of my body and mind skin philosophy. My diet, activity levels and stress management all align much better when I’ve slept well. It’s becomes a positive cascade effect. Sleep is also our bodies own way of repairing and rejuvenating the skin.
Salama Mohammed
Founder – Peacefull
What are the non-negotiables staples in your skincare routine?
The non-negotiable staples in any skincare routine start with the ultimate trio: a cleanser, a toner, and a moisturizer. I find these to be the basis and the foundations of the beginning of an effective skincare routine to restore and repair. And of course, one must never forget sunscreen, regardless of where you live!
What product is your forever non-negotiable?
This is a difficult question to answer because not one skincare product is considered non-negotiable because each serves their own purpose and has a direct effect on your skin. However, we do often overlook the first and most vital step which is cleansing. Cleansing may not be the most talked about step in our routines anymore but it’s still the most important. Cleansing is crucial for removing dirt, debris, pollutants, and any grime. Without it, we won’t see the benefits of the other products and, can have a counter-effect. Plus, if you start your skincare routine with the right cleanser then you’re less likely to need those added extras to compensate for what the wrong cleanser does to your skin.
What lifestyle habits that support your skin are non-negotiable?
My lifestyle habits that are non-negotiable include, kicking off my skincare routine first thing in the morning – and yes, even before breakfast! As the morning progresses, we often think about our schedules for the day and skincare takes a backseat. It’s important to Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate – Always start your day with water, whether it is with a squeeze of lemon juice or with a slice of ginger and I consider cleaning your makeup brushes technically an essential part of a skincare routine and it should be done at least twice a month. This will avoid the build-up of bacteria, which could easily result in acne and skin irritation.
Nora Al Ramadhan
CEO and Co-Founder – Apotheca Beauty
What are the non-negotiables staples in your skincare routine?
A gentle cleanser (as I tend to wash my face about three times a day on average) and toner to rebalance my skin’s PH levels while gently exfoliating. My go-to cleanser at the moment is the Tatcha Rice Wash. For my toner, I am currently loving the Omoroicza Silver Skin Tonic.
What product is your forever non-negotiable?
SPF if my forever non-negotiable. As I have an olive skin tone, I pigment very easily so am always cautious of making sure to take care of my skin and prolong its natural elasticity as much as possible.
What lifestyle habits that support your skin are non-negotiable?
Exercise, 8 hours of sleep and my morning collagen powder that I either have mixed with my coffee or almond milk.
Hannah Stirling – Martin
COO -Apotheca Beauty
What are the non-negotiables staples in your skincare routine?
Over the last 10 years I have taken my skincare routine very seriously (having slept in makeup through my early twenties!) I double cleanse every night, starting with an oil or balm and then true cleanse with a foam – I’ve been using the Tatcha Camelia Cleansing Oil and Omorovicza Cleansing Foam recently. I use the Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum morning and night and I also love a light, water based vitamin C; my current go-to is the Summer Fridays CC Me Serum. I get my retinal fix from the Omorovicza Midnight Renewal and then wear SPF every day – either the Glo Skin Beauty Oil Free SPF or the Lancer Sheer Fluid Sun Shield.
What product is your forever non-negotiable?
I love masks – a have one for every concern! The Radiance Awakening Mask from Lancer and Summer Friday’s Jet Lag Mask are my constants.
What lifestyle habits that support your skin are non-negotiable?
My mum turned 70 this year and looks incredible so I follow her advice. She credits a little sunlight, lots of water, green vegetables, a good night’s sleep and an expensive moisturiser.
Margaret de Heinrich
Co Founder – Omorovicza
What are the non-negotiables staples in your skincare routine?
My non-negotiables would be a combination of Omorovicza’s Gold Night Drops with a retinoid; there’s nothing better to reduce the depth and appearance of wrinkles. In addition to this, our Daily Vitamin C works to brighten the skin and is an amazing antioxidant. Our Ultramoor Mud Mask is a must have too; this mud enriched mask detoxifies, while lifting and firming the skin as well.
What product is your forever non-negotiable?
I would say our Blue Diamond Concentrate is my forever non-negotiable. It contains the highest percentage of our patented and clinically proven Healing Concentrate™ which remineralizes the skin – reducing inflammation and increasing collagen.
What lifestyle habits that support your skin are non-negotiable?
A facial is non-negotiable. I have one at least once every 3 months, and then when seasons change, ideally once a month. The skin changes on a daily basis due to stress, travel, medication, climate etc and you need to adapt your skincare regime accordingly. There is nothing better than expert advice on your regime, especially after having seen your skin up close. I am also a big believer in the concept of biohacking – staying curious and using the latest information to make small changes to diet and lifestyle. This can be as simple as cutting out sugar in your coffee, but there’s no doubt that these small changes make a huge difference, which can subsequently be noticed on skin.
Mary Yee
CEO – Tatcha
What are the non-negotiables staples in your skincare routine?
The Water Cream is an absolute staple in my skincare routine. I love that it feels like a burst of water every time I apply it, and it leaves a pore-refining, mattifying finish. It contains wild rose and leopard lily to help minimize excess oil production and calm the skin.
What product is your forever non-negotiable?
It would be The Essence. It contains Hadasei-3™, Tatcha’s proprietary complex, that is rooted in the nutrient-dense Japanese diet, known to boost longevity. Double-fermented rice, green tea, and algae go deeper than water to channel nutrients into the skin, boosting the efficacy of your skincare ritual, while replenishing the skin’s moisture barrier for a plump, supple complexion.
What lifestyle habits that support your skin are non-negotiable?
Growing up, my grandmother, who is now 100 years young, practiced daily rituals of well-being inspired by eastern culture that I never fully appreciated until I got older. Over the years, I’ve learned to appreciate her approach to mindfulness as a connection to well-being. I now emulate this with creating space to reset each day with an intentional ritual while doing my skincare routine which includes purify with The Camellia Cleansing Oil: I close my eyes to think of anything in the day that stuck to me, and just let it go with my makeup and the physical residue of the day, polish with the Rice Polish: Deep: As I exfoliate, I think about anything during the day that I didn’t hit the mark on and remind myself that I can always begin again. With our skin, as with ourselves, we can always shed the old and start anew, plump with The Essence – As I press the formula in and replenish my skin, I think about replenishing my energy. As women, we spend so much of our time taking care of others that we can deplete ourselves. It’s a reminder to give back to yourself as much as you give to others and Nourish with The Water Cream – As I seal in moisture for my last step, I envision also sealing myself into a cocoon of care that’s given to me by the people in my life. This reminds me that for all I give throughout the day, there are always people who are caring for me in return.
Julie Lemke
Esthetician
What are the non-negotiable staples in your skincare routine?
Facial cleansing. A good gentle cleanser, that will cleanse the skin without disrupting the delicate and essential skin barrier. I am huge on facial misting, to balance the acid mantle and to increase the hydration in your skin. This step must be done after cleansing and before application of serums, moisturizer etc. It is essential to have an antioxidant serum in the day paired with a really good non-comedogenic sunscreen to shield and protect your skin from free radical and photo damage. For PM hours – retinol
and exfoliating acids – on alternating days, of course (and in moderation). Exfoliation is key to an increased skin hydration. I am
also a huge fan of LED light as it is a noninvasive way to achieve glowing radiant skin. If you are breakout prone, this will be a real game changer fused with a healthy skin regimen! Last but not least – I also consider teeth flossing, as maintaining oral health is superior in terms of having a clear healthy skin, as the oral cavity is linked to the gut and our gut is linked to the skin.
What product is your forever non-negotiable?
Sunscreen. And which sunscreen is the best? The one that you will use and wear! I educate all of my clients on the importance of sunscreen. In general, we are so concerned about skin-ageing and correcting various skin concerns that can be directly traced to
UV exposure, like discoloration/uneven skin tone, skin laxity and sunspots. But in reality, we forget to prevent and protect. Did you
know that UV exposure is responsible for approximately 80 percent of all skin ageing? Long story short – sunscreen is an absolute must – and you will have to wear it every single day, 365 days per year, no matter where you live or where you work. As an extra layer of defense, I always recommend pairing your sunscreen with some kind of topical antioxidant protection, to shield and coat your skin during the day. The brand Heliocare has a broad variety of sunscreens, all of which offer a high-level of broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, visible light – including blue light from digital devices.
What lifestyle habits that support your skin are non-negotiable?
First of all, consistency is key! I do not follow Tik-Tok/Instagram skincare tends or other advice that is not tailored to your specific skin and current condition. It may be the best product/advice on the planet – but it may also not be suited to your skin’s needs and concerns. Managing stress levels and prioritizing sleep is the BEST thing you can do for your dewy glowing complexion. Then follows exercise, deep breathing techniques to oxygenate cells and get the lymph flowing, fused with regular body and facial massages that will help to promote an amazing healthy glow from within. Ingesting a diet which is rich in antioxidants, eliminating sugar and making sure to give body plenty of hydration and rest.
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