Middle Eastern traditional skincare rituals are renowned for their use of natural ingredients passed down through generations.
Have you ever looked at pictures of your great-grandmother when she was young and wondered what she used to have that glow? We will let you in on some secrets on how the women of the Middle East maintain their natural glow as well as enhance it with natural ingredients.
First up is, Frankincense Gum the original face toner. Soak a few in water for 24 hours and then strain the water. Afterward, it can be stored for up to one week in the fridge. Use it after washing your face. It will even out the skin tone, and clear away pimples. And don’t forget to moisturise after. This can be used for most skin types, however, it cannot be used on oily skin.
Next, instead of going to the dentist they used Derm which is extracted from the bark of the walnut tree. A small piece was placed in the mouth and chewed on, till it becomes moist.
It will secrete a red substance used to dye the lips by squeezing the derm and letting it drip onto the lips. Then, the derm is rubbed against the gum and teeth to clean and whiten them. A word of warning, avoid rubbing it against your lips otherwise your lips will turn black.
Rose water is a gem that is praised across the Middle East and North Africa and has a multitude of uses. It soothes skin irritation, has anti-aging properties, reduces the appearance of redness, hydrates the skin and if applied to the hair it can help with hair growth. Every morning, spray a generous amount on your face and use it as a toner at night.
Tired of the endless chemicals listed in store-bought shampoos? Try this all-natural shampoo known as Sidr, made from the leaves of Sidr tree-well known for its cleansing and soothing qualities.
For shiny and soft hair, mix hot water and the sidr powder together. Make sure it’s enough to cover your scalp only. Oil the rest of your hair and wash it out with plain water. The next day oil your entire head and wash with shampoo.
Finally, instead of a cheek tint, they would get the Akr Fassi. Spray water on it and use it as a blush and lipstick.
