Ramadan 2018: 7 tips on how to take care of your skin

Taking care of one's skin calls for some extra effort during Ramadan!
Less hours of sleep and deficiency of certain nutrients in the body leaves your skin a little dull and pale during the month. This is exactly why we bring to you certain skincare tips and expert advice that will make you as pretty as a picture in no time.
What can be done to prepare one's skin before Ramadan?
This year, the holy month of Ramadan is arriving in the hottest month of summer so we need to prepare our body as well as our skin for it. It is highly important to look after the skin during this month, as it goes through a number of ups and downs. Long fasting hours, hot and humid weather and lack of fluid may lead to skin damage and dryness.
So prepare your skin and body by using moisturizer liberally on a daily basis; shield yourself from sun and take a proper diet.
Avoid the sun as UV rays are harmful to the skin as they cause tanning and sunburn. So the use of sunblock with SPF 50 at least 15 minutes before going out is crucial. Walking in shade, use of umbrella or cap would also be helpful to protect your skin throughout Ramadan.
What should be the cleansing routine during Ramadan?
Since our skin is constantly exposed to dust, pollution and extreme temperature, it is necessary to use a mild skin cleanser on a routine basis. The cleanser should be free of heavy fragrance, artificial colours and be of a good brand. Overwashing your face is also a complete no-no.
One should also not forget to take care of area around the eyes to prevent dark circles formation by applying a moisturiser, using cool tea bag twice weekly and a vitamin C serum during night time.
Are there any make-up products that need to be avoided during Ramadan?
Oil-based heavy make-up needs to be avoided as it can lead to breakouts. Only light water-based make-up foundation should be used.
How are people supposed to stay hydrated during Ramadan?
Drink plenty of water and natural fresh juices. Your skin and body may not be receiving normal hydration and nutrition while fasting and they need some extra help to stay hydrated and supple.
You need to drink as much water as possible during Ramadan to avoid dehydration of skin.
Avoid drinking carbonated or sugary beverages like soda or aerated drinks, as well as caffeine as these too can cause dehydration.
Are there any particular food items that spoil or lead to skin breakouts during Ramadan?
You are what you eat - This holds true during Ramadan too.
Make special effort to avoid oily/fast food, sugars and refined carbohydrates as they are really bad for the skin. Eating this sort of food can lead to skin blemishes, breakouts and make it look dull. To achieve flawless and radiant skin, eat lots of fresh fruits, vegetables and fish as they are rich in vitamins and minerals. Eating right and exercising moderately would make a huge impact on your skin during the holy month.
What kind of moisturizing products, frequency and procedures are to be followed?
As mentioned earlier, your skin is dehydrated due to fasting, with high humidity in the environment and AC blasting on your skin at all times. All of these factors lead to dry and parched body skin and lips.
To avoid this, you must use moisturizer regularly on the body at least once immediately after a shower as the skin absorbs it better at that time. The lips should also be moisturized at least three to four times every day.
Use very mild cleansers or olive oil to remove make-up and completely avoid using wipes or harsh make-up removal products.
Are there any beauty treatments that are peculiar to Ramadan?
Any harsh chemical peels and strong laser treatment need to be avoided during Ramadan, but some of the latest skin tightening methods like HIFU [High Intensity Focused Ultrasound] can be done.
All information has been provided by Dr Ganesh Bingewar, Dermatology specialist, Burjeel Medical Centre, Al Bahia, Deerfields Mall.