How to choose face wash for your skin in UAE

How to choose face wash for your skin in UAE? Choosing the right face wash in the UAE depends largely on your skin type and the region's hot, humid climate. This climate often leads to increased oil production and sweating, which can clog pores and increase the likelihood of pimples and blackheads. Therefore, experts at Mars & Venus offer tips on choosing the right face wash in the UAE.

 

How to choose face wash for your skin in UAE?

To choose the right face wash for your skin in the UAE, where the hot and humid climate can sometimes take its toll, you should focus on the following key points:

Oily or acne-prone skin:

• The right texture: A lightweight gel or foam cleanser.
• Key ingredients: Look for ingredients that help control excess sebum and unclog pores, such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, clay, or niacinamide.

Dry or normal skin:

• The right texture: A cream, oil, or cleansing milk cleanser to hydrate the skin.
• Key ingredients: Look for moisturizing ingredients that maintain the skin barrier, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides.

Combination skin:

• The right texture: A balanced gel or foam cleanser that cleanses oily areas without drying out dry areas.
• Key ingredients: Ingredients that combine gentle cleansing with hydration, and may contain a light percentage of pore-cleansing acids.
  

 

Sensitive Skin:

• Appropriate Texture: Cream cleanser, micellar water, or a calming and gentle formula.
• Key Ingredients: It should be free of perfumes, alcohol, soap, and harsh irritants. Look for soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.

Climate Consideration:

• In the UAE, where heat and humidity are high, oily skin may need a more effective oil-control cleanser to maintain its freshness. Those with dry or sensitive skin should ensure their cleanser doesn't dry it out due to constant exposure to air conditioning.

Attention to Ingredients to Avoid:

• Alcohol and strong perfumes: These can cause dryness and irritation, especially for sensitive skin.
• Harsh (alkaline) soaps: These alter the skin's natural pH and cause dryness.
• Use the cleanser twice daily, morning and evening.
• Gently massage the cleanser onto your face in circular motions.
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm (not hot) water to remove any cleanser residue.
  

 

The importance of choosing the right face wash in the UAE

Choosing the right face wash in the UAE's climate (extreme heat, high humidity, and dust) is of utmost importance for several reasons related to maintaining healthy and beautiful skin:

1. Dealing with the effects of heat and humidity (excess oil and clogged pores):

• Excessive oil and sweat secretion: The hot and humid climate in the UAE stimulates the sebaceous glands to secrete large amounts of oil (sebum) and increases sweating. This combination can quickly accumulate on the skin's surface.
• Clogged pores and acne: If the face is not cleansed effectively, oil and sweat mix with dust and pollutants, leading to clogged pores, blackheads, pimples, and acne.
• The importance of the right cleanser: A person needs a deep-cleansing cleanser that is effective in controlling oil, preferably with a light formula (gel or foam) that does not clog pores (non-comedogenic).

 

2. Combating the effects of dust and pollutants:

• Accumulation of impurities: Airborne dust and environmental pollutants easily accumulate on the skin, especially with the viscosity resulting from oils and sweat.
• Irritation and Weakened Skin Barrier: These pollutants can cause irritation, inflammation, and damage the skin's protective barrier.
• The Importance of the Right Cleanser: A good face wash ensures complete removal of these dirt and pollutants without the need for vigorous rubbing that could cause further irritation.

3. Maintaining the Skin's Moisture Balance (Hydration and Conditioning):

• Air-Conditioned Dryness: Despite the humidity outside, spending long periods in air-conditioned spaces (with dry air) can strip the skin of its natural moisture, weakening its barrier and leading to dryness and dullness.
• The Importance of the Right Cleanser: Choose a gentle cleanser that doesn't excessively strip the skin of its natural oils. A cleanser containing hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or ceramides helps cleanse the skin while maintaining its hydration and preventing a feeling of dryness or tightness after washing.

 

Common skin concerns in the Emirates due to weather

Due to the UAE's hot, humid, and dry climate, a number of skin problems are common, most notably:

Oily skin and acne:

• Cause: High heat and humidity increase the secretion of sebum (oil), leading to oilier skin and clogged pores.
• Result: Acne worsens, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.

Dryness and flaking:

• Cause: Despite the humidity outside, intense exposure to sunlight and extreme heat, as well as frequent use of indoor air conditioning (which strips moisture from the skin), can lead to dry, cracked skin, especially on the extremities.
• Result: Rough, flaky skin, and loss of natural hydration.

Allergies and irritation (heat rash):

• Cause: Excessive sweating due to high temperatures, especially in body folds, leads to clogged sweat ducts under the skin.
• Result: Heat rash (miliaria) appears as small, itchy red bumps, reddening, and irritation of the skin.
• Other factors: Sandstorms and dust can increase skin irritation and sensitivity.

Pigmentation and premature aging:

• Cause: Excessive and direct exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays in the UAE's hot climate.
• Result: Dark spots, discoloration, and an increased risk of premature aging and wrinkles.

Therefore, sun protection, proper hydration, and maintaining clean skin to reduce excess oil and sweating are among the most important skincare steps in this climate.

 

Ways to determine your skin type

There are several ways to determine your skin type, the easiest and most common of which are self-observation and the tissue test after washing your face. Here's a brief overview of the methods and how to determine each type:

1. Wash and Observe Method (Easiest Method):

• Wash your face: Use a gentle cleanser on your face and gently pat it dry with a clean towel.
• Wait: Do not apply any product (moisturizer, serum, makeup) to your skin for 30 minutes to an hour.

2. Tissue Test (Patting):

• Wash your face and gently pat it dry.
• Wait: Wait for about an hour without applying any product.
• Test: Gently press a clean tissue or "oil-absorbing paper" on different areas of your face (forehead, nose, chin, cheeks).

3. Determine Skin Type

• Oily: Visible oil patches appear on all areas of the tissue.
• Combination: Oily patches appear only in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), and the cheeks are dry or normal.
• Normal: No traces of oil or very light oil in any area.
• Dry: No traces of oil, and you may notice slight flaking on the tissue.

Why knowing your skin type is crucial for selecting a cleanser?

Determining your skin type (oily, dry, combination, sensitive, normal) is crucial for choosing the right face wash for the following reasons:

• Meeting your skin's specific needs: Each skin type has its own unique characteristics and needs, and choosing a cleanser that doesn't suit your skin type may exacerbate problems rather than solve them.
• Oily skin: Needs a cleanser that helps control excess sebum and deeply cleanses pores to prevent clogged pores and acne (such as cleansers containing salicylic acid or activated charcoal).
• Dry skin: Needs a gentle, moisturizing cleanser (usually creamy or milky) containing nourishing and hydrating ingredients such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid to cleanse without stripping natural oils and increasing dryness.
• Sensitive skin: Requires a mild, gentle cleanser free of perfumes, alcohol, and harsh soaps to avoid irritation, redness, or itching.
• Combination skin: Needs a balanced cleanser that treats oily areas (the T-zone) while maintaining hydration in dry areas.
• Using a harsh, oil-removing cleanser on dry skin will increase dryness, flaking, and a feeling of tightness.
• Using a moisturizing, creamy cleanser on oily skin can increase shine, clog pores, and lead to breakouts and acne.
• Maintaining skin balance: The right cleanser helps maintain the skin's natural pH and healthy balance, enhancing the skin's protective barrier function and leaving it healthier and more radiant.

How heat humidity and dust affect skin in UAE?

The UAE's high heat, humidity, and dust significantly affect the health and beauty of the skin and can lead to various skin problems. Here's a breakdown of how each factor affects it:

1. Effects of High Heat:

• Dryness and Premature Aging: Excessive exposure to sunlight and high heat causes dry skin and increases the production of free radicals, accelerating the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines (premature aging).
• Sunburn and Skin Damage: Harmful ultraviolet (UVA and UVB) rays increase the risk of sunburn and damage to skin cells' DNA, increasing the likelihood of developing skin cancer in the long term.
• Heat Stress and Heat Rash (Prickly Heat): Extreme heat increases sweating, and if sweat is trapped in blocked sweat gland ducts, it can cause irritation and a rash known as heat rash.
• Pigmentation: Sun exposure stimulates melanin production, which can lead to dark spots, worsening melasma, and skin discoloration.

2. The Effect of High Humidity:

• Increased Oiliness and the Appearance of Pimples: High humidity increases the secretion of sweat and oils (sebum) on the skin's surface, leading to more frequent clogging of pores and the appearance of acne and pimples, especially for those with oily or combination skin.
• Aggravation of Skin Problems: Humidity can contribute to the aggravation of some skin conditions such as eczema (atopic dermatitis), as it creates an ideal environment for the growth of certain microorganisms.

3. The Effect of Dust and Sandstorms:

• Skin Irritation and Dryness: Dust and desert sand, which are common in duststorms, can lead to skin irritation and dryness upon direct contact.
• Skin Allergies: Dust carries allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pollutants, which can cause skin allergies, dermatitis, eczema, and eye irritation.
• Pollution of Pores: Fine dust particles can accumulate on the skin and enter the pores, increasing the likelihood of clogging and the formation of blackheads or whiteheads.

In short, the UAE's climate requires a special skincare routine that focuses on strong sun protection, oil control, light, non-pore-clogging hydration, and deep cleansing after exposure to dust.

 

Why you need a cleanser that removes sweat dirt and pollution without over-drying in UAE?

You need a cleanser that removes traces of sweat and pollutants without drying out your skin in the UAE for the following reasons:

• Excessive sweating and a hot environment: The UAE's climate is often hot and humid, which increases the secretion of sweat and oils on the skin. If sweat and oils are not properly cleansed, they can clog pores and lead to acne and pimples. Cleansing is essential to remove this buildup.
• Pollutant and dust buildup: The external environment in the UAE may contain a certain amount of pollution, dust, and impurities (such as fine dust carried in the air). These pollutants adhere to the skin and cause stress, known as "oxidative stress," which contributes to premature aging and skin discoloration. Cleansing helps deeply cleanse the skin of these residues.
• Avoid dehydration due to climate and air conditioning factors: Although humidity and sweating are high outdoors, spending too much time in air-conditioned spaces (due to extreme heat) can strip moisture from the skin and cause dryness. 
• Maintaining the skin's natural barrier: Using a cleanser that is too strong or contains harsh chemicals can strip the skin of its natural oils (sebum) and disrupt its pH balance, weakening its protective barrier. Dry skin or skin with a damaged barrier becomes more susceptible to irritation, sensitivity, and inflammation.
• Preparing the skin for skincare products: Clean, well-hydrated skin is better prepared to absorb and receive subsequent skincare products such as serums and moisturizers, increasing their effectiveness.

In short, the right cleanser for the UAE should strike a balance between being effective enough to deeply cleanse and remove sweat, pollutants, and excess oil, yet gentle enough to maintain skin's moisture and prevent dryness caused by harsh air conditioning or harsh cleansing agents.

Ingredients for a face wash suitable for oily, dry, combination, and normal skin

Facial wash ingredients may vary depending on your skin type (oily, dry, combination, normal) to meet your specific needs. However, there are some common ingredients that are often included to cleanse the skin or provide specific benefits:

Beneficial Ingredients (or for multiple skin types):

• Glycerin: A common humectant that helps attract moisture to the skin and is beneficial for all skin types, especially dry and sensitive.
• Hyaluronic Acid: A powerful humectant that helps retain moisture in the skin and is suitable for dry, normal, and combination skin.
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Helps regulate sebum production, minimize the appearance of pores, improve the skin barrier, and soothe the skin. It is beneficial for oily, combination, normal, and sensitive skin.
• Ceramides: Natural lipids that help restore and strengthen the skin's protective barrier and retain moisture. They are beneficial for dry and sensitive skin.
• Aloe Vera: A soothing and anti-inflammatory ingredient, ideal for sensitive or irritated skin.

Beneficial ingredients for oily and acne-prone skin:

• Salicylic acid (BHA): Helps exfoliate the skin, clear pores of excess oil and impurities, and reduce acne.
• Glycolic acid (AHA): A mild exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells.
• Green tea extract: Reduces inflammation and regulates oil production.
• Tea tree oil: Has antibacterial properties and is beneficial in controlling oily skin.

Beneficial ingredients for dry, sensitive, and normal skin:

• Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides: Hydrate and retain moisture.
• Soothing plant extracts (such as chamomile or colloidal oatmeal): Calm the skin and reduce irritation.
• Creamy or oil-based cleansers containing moisturizing oils such as jojoba oil or shea butter.

Ingredients to avoid (especially for sensitive or dry skin):

• Sulfates (such as SLS/SLES): Can cause excessive dryness and strip away natural oils.
• Alcohol: May dry out and irritate the skin.
• Strong perfumes: May cause sensitivity and irritation in sensitive skin.
• Heavy mineral oils: May further clog pores in oily areas.

Importance of “non-comedogenic” and “soap-free” cleansers in UAE weather

Non-comedogenic and soap-free cleansers are gaining importance for skin care in the UAE's hot and humid climate, as these environmental conditions contribute to an increase in skin problems.

Why are non-comedogenic cleansers necessary?

• In the UAE's hot and humid climate, sweat and oil (sebum) production increases significantly.
• Anti-clogging pores: Non-comedogenic means that the cleanser is designed to avoid clogging skin pores, which is vital when the skin produces more oil and sweat.
• Preventing acne and blackheads: Using these cleansers helps prevent the buildup of oil, dirt, and dead skin cells inside pores, which is the main cause of blackheads, pimples, and acne, problems that worsen in heat and humidity.

Why are soap-free cleansers necessary?

• Traditional cleansers containing alkaline soap can be harsh on the skin, especially in harsh climates.
• Maintaining skin pH balance: Soap-free cleansers help maintain the skin's natural pH, which is normally slightly acidic. Alkaline cleansers (soaps) can upset this balance.
• Preventing dryness and irritation: The UAE's weather, especially when transitioning from the hot, humid outdoors to the cold, dry indoor air conditioning, makes skin prone to dryness. Soap-free cleansers are often gentler and remove excess oil and impurities without excessively stripping the skin of its natural moisture and oils.
• Suitable for sensitive skin: Due to their gentle nature, they are a better choice for irritated or sensitive skin that may be adversely affected by harsh heat and humidity.

Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free options for sensitive skin

Marsandvenus.net offers products suitable for sensitive skin or tends to offer fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options. Here are some potential options from brands that meet your needs:

 La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5

 If your skin feels irritated or needs extra care, try the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 — a soothing repair balm designed for sensitive, irritated skin, and completely fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.

 

 Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream

 For daily hydration that calms sensitivity, the Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream offers gentle soothing and deep nourishment — making it an excellent choice for sensitive or stressed skin.

 

 Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++

 Protect your skin with the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun, a lightweight sunscreen enriched with rice and probiotics — perfect for sensitive skin seeking both relief and protection from UV rays.

Tips for testing new products on a small area of skin

Testing a new product on a small area of skin (patch testing) is very important to avoid any irritation or allergic reactions before applying it to a larger area. Here are some important tips on how to conduct this test effectively and safely:

Choosing the right test area:

• Find a small, sensitive, but inconspicuous area of skin, such as the inner forearm or behind the ear.
• For products specifically designed for the face, a small area along the jawline or behind the ear can be used.
• Ensure the area is clean and free of any irritation or wounds.

Cleansing the skin:

Wash the test area with mild soap and water, then dry it before applying the product.

Applying a small amount of product:

• Apply a small amount (approximately the size of a pea) of the new product to the test area.
• Use the amount and thickness you would normally use when applying the product regularly.
• Note for rinse-off products: If the product (such as a cleanser or mask) typically rinses off, leave it on the skin for the time specified in the instructions (usually 5 minutes or as directed), then rinse with lukewarm water.

Wait and Watch:

• Immediate monitoring: Monitor the area for 15 to 30 minutes for any stinging, intense itching, immediate redness, or swelling.
• Longer test period: Leave the product on the area for 24 to 48 hours (preferably 48 hours for sensitive skin), as some allergic reactions may be delayed. Repeat application twice daily (morning and evening) to the same area for 7 to 10 days for more accurate results, especially for products that remain on the skin.

Results evaluation:

• Safe to use: If you do not notice any redness, swelling, itching, rash, or severe discomfort, the product is likely safe to use on your entire skin.
• Stop Use: If any signs of irritation appear (redness, swelling, itching, severe stinging, blisters, or bumps), rinse the product immediately with cool water and discontinue use.

Tips for Effective Testing:

• Test one product at a time: Don't start testing more than one new product at a time. This ensures you know exactly which product caused any potential reaction.
• Avoid Mixing: Don't mix the new product with any other skincare products during the test period.
• Active Ingredient Note: Powerful active ingredients (such as retinol or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) may cause some temporary tingling or mild redness, which is normal. However, if irritation is severe or persists, discontinue use.
• Acne-Prone Skin: You may want to test the product on a small area of your face (such as your jawline) for one to two weeks to monitor whether it causes clogged pores or breakouts.

 

 

Common mistakes to avoid when choosing the right face wash for your skin in the UAE

Choosing the right face wash is very important, especially in an environment like the UAE, characterized by high heat and humidity. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when choosing the right face wash for your skin:

• Not knowing your skin type: This is the biggest mistake. Using a face wash designed for oily skin on dry skin can cause dryness and irritation, and vice versa.
• Solution: Determine your skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive, normal) and choose a face wash specifically designed for it.
• Choose a face wash that contains harsh or irritating ingredients, such as alcohol, artificial fragrances, and some harsh detergents (such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)).
• Avoid: Ingredients that may strip the skin of its natural oils, especially in the UAE's climate, which can exacerbate dryness or sensitivity.
• Look for: Gentle, fragrance-free, alcohol-free formulas, especially for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
• Ignore climatic conditions (heat and humidity): The hot and humid climate in the UAE can increase oil and sweat production, which can easily clog pores.
• Solution: If you have oily or combination skin, you may need a light, non-comedogenic gel or foaming cleanser to help control oil and prevent clogged pores. If you have dry skin, you should focus on a cream or moisturizing cleanser.
• Use one product for all purposes: A daily cleanser alone may not be enough to remove heavy makeup or waterproof sunscreen.
• Solution: Consider a double cleansing regimen in the evening (cleansing oil or balm first, followed by your regular cleanser) to ensure all impurities and product buildup are removed, especially after a day outdoors in the UAE's climate.
• Choose a cleanser with an unbalanced pH: Cleansers with a high (alkaline) pH can disrupt the skin's natural balance (which tends to be slightly acidic) and weaken its protective barrier.
• Solution: Look for a cleanser with a pH that is balanced or close to your skin's natural pH (around 5.5).
  

It's worth noting that after choosing the right cleanser for your skin type and climatic conditions, remember that using lukewarm water instead of hot water and drying your face by patting (not rubbing) with a soft towel are essential steps to avoid skin irritation and dryness.

The importance of choosing the right face wash for your skin and climate in the UAE

• Dealing with Sweating and Excess Oil: The UAE's hot, humid climate increases sweat and oil production (sebum), making the skin prone to clogged pores and acne. This requires a cleanser that effectively removes these secretions and buildup without being harsh or drying.
• Fighting Pollution and Dust: The UAE's climate can be fraught with dust and pollutants. The right cleanser ensures the removal of these particles, which accumulate on the skin and lead to damage and dullness.
• Protecting Against Indirect Dryness: Despite the humidity, prolonged exposure to air-conditioned environments can dry out the skin. Therefore, even oily skin may need a cleanser that doesn't over-dry it.
• Removing Sunscreen: Daily, intensive use of sunscreen (essential in this climate) requires a cleanser that effectively removes oily or mineral residue to ensure deep cleansing of the pores.

FAQs

How often should I wash my face in the UAE?

Mars & Venus skincare experts recommend washing your face twice daily: once in the morning and once in the evening. However, in the UAE's hot and humid climate, you may need to adjust this routine based on your skin type and daily activity:

For oily or acne-prone skin:

• It's best to wash your face twice daily. Some may recommend cleansing more frequently if you feel excessive sweating or oiliness (but don't over-wash, as this can dry out your skin and trigger more oil production).
• If you sweat a lot due to the weather or exercise, you can use a gentle cleanser or rinse your face with cool water after sweating.
  

For dry or sensitive skin:

Washing once in the evening with a gentle cleanser may be sufficient, followed by rinsing your face with lukewarm water or using a gentle micellar water in the morning. Over-washing can increase dryness and irritation.

Should I change my cleanser in summer vs. winter?

Yes, it's best to switch your facial cleanser between summer and winter, as your skin's needs change significantly with the weather, as follows:

• In winter: Skin tends to become drier due to colder weather and lower humidity. Therefore, you may need a creamy or oil-based cleanser that's gentle, moisturizing, and free of harsh soaps to minimize the loss of natural oils in the skin.
• In summer: Temperatures and humidity increase, leading to increased sebum and sweat production, and acne may become more prevalent. Therefore, you may need a lighter, pore-clearing gel or foaming cleanser, possibly containing ingredients like salicylic acid to control oil.

What if my skin feels tight after cleansing?

• Change your cleanser: Replace your current cleanser with a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser with a moisturizing or creamy texture, preferably pH-balanced.
• Use lukewarm/cool water: Wash your face with lukewarm or cool water instead of hot water.
• Moisturize immediately: This is the most important step. Apply moisturizer to your skin while it is still slightly damp immediately after cleansing (within a minute). This helps lock in moisture.
• Dry gently: Pat your face dry with a soft, clean towel instead of vigorously rubbing.
• Avoid harsh ingredients: Limit the use of products with high alcohol content, strong fragrances, or active acids (such as AHA and BHA) if you have sensitive or dry skin.

Is it okay to use exfoliating cleansers every day?

In general, daily exfoliating face washes are not recommended for most skin types. Daily exfoliation can lead to:

• Irritation and dryness: It can strip away the skin's natural protective layer (skin barrier).
• Increased sensitivity: Especially if your skin is dry or sensitive.
• Conversely: Over-exfoliation can exacerbate certain conditions, such as acne or the appearance of redness.

Can men and women use the same face wash?

Yes, men and women can use the same face wash in many cases, because skin type (oily, dry, combination, sensitive) is the most important factor when choosing a wash, not gender.

 

How to choose face wash for my skin type in UAE?

To choose a face wash suitable for your skin type in the UAE, you need to determine the following:

• Oily skin: Characterized by excessive oil production, enlarged pores, and shine.
• Dry skin: Feels tight, may be flaky, and suffers from dryness.
• Combination skin: The T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) is oily, while the cheeks are dry or normal.
• Sensitive skin: Is prone to redness, irritation, and itching easily when using the wrong products.
• Normal skin: Balanced, neither excessively oily nor excessively dry.

 

What is the best Gentle cleanser for sensitive skin Dubai?

Make sure the cleanser you choose is fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and sulfate-free, as these ingredients often irritate sensitive skin.

When choosing the right face wash for your skin in the UAE, choose from a trusted source like Mars & Venus, which offers gentle face washes suitable for all skin types.