Your Ultimate Skincare Routine for the UAE Climate
, by Belal Gazia, 2 min reading time
The UAE brings lots of sunshine, heat and occasional humidity — conditions that call for a thoughtful skincare routine. With the right products and simple habits you can protect your skin from damage, keep it hydrated, and maintain a healthy glow all year round.
1. Start with a gentle cleanser
Cleanse morning and night using a mild, sulphate-free cleanser. In hot weather you want a formula that removes sweat, sunscreen and pollution without stripping natural oils. Look for calming ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.
2. Replenish moisture right after cleansing
After cleansing, apply a hydrating toner or essence while skin is slightly damp to lock in moisture. Follow with a lightweight hyaluronic acid serum — it draws moisture into the skin without feeling heavy.
3. Choose the right moisturiser for the climate
For most of the year in the UAE, gel or water-cream moisturisers work best: they hydrate without clogging pores. Switch to a richer cream only during cooler months or if your skin feels dry.
4. Daily sun protection is essential
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30–50) every morning — even if you’re indoors most of the day. Reapply every 2–3 hours when you’re outside. Use a travel-sized sunscreen in your bag and a mineral or tinted SPF if you prefer light coverage.
5. Night-time: repair and recover
Night is the best time to repair. Use a gentle antioxidant serum (vitamin C in the morning, or vitamin E / niacinamide in the evening) and finish with a nourishing night cream or an overnight mask 1–2 times a week.
6. Weekly extras: exfoliate & mask
Exfoliate once a week with a gentle chemical or physical exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and boost radiance. After a long day in the sun or after swimming, use hydrating sheet masks or soothing clay masks to calm and restore skin balance.
7. Practical UAE tips
• Air conditioning & dehydration: A humidifier at home or a hydrating mist can help counter indoor dryness.
• Sea & pool care: Rinse hair and skin after swimming to remove chlorine and salt; follow with a hydrating routine.
• Cooling comfort: Keep a face mist or gel moisturizer in the fridge — the coolness feels refreshing after the heat.
