It’s simple: just like with what you eat, what you put on your skin ends up in your body. As we’ve become more conscious of what we eat and how this affects us, we’ve also become more interested in what’s in our skincare products. Although many products still have a chemical-laden ingredients list, there is also a growth in natural or organic cosmetic brands which also have an environmentally friendly ethos and refuse to test on animals.

So before we reveal where to lay your hands on such brands in Dubai, let’s have a quick look at what an ideal “clean” product should, and shouldn’t be.

Chemical free –  this means no parabens or phthalates (said to disrupt hormones) and no formaldehyde or bismuth oxychloride (said to irritate the skin)

Vegan and cruelty free

Organic certified (if possible)

Free of mineral oils and silicones

Clinically tested

Hypoallergenic

Environmentally- friendly in terms of ingredients, production and packages

Like juice bars and health food shops, many natural products are now readily available in our region. Here are a few:

Shiffa

Founded here in her native Dubai, Dr Lamees Hamdan created the popular Shiffa skincare line, which comprises everything from face and bodylines to pregnancy products. The name means “to heal” in Arabic, and the Shiffa range is derived from natural ingredients and inspired by holistic remedies. Dr Hamdan has said that she created the brand because, as we are constantly exposed to pollutants, additives and chemicals through food and the environment, she believes that skincare choices should not add to this chemical onslaught. You can find the Shiffa range in all Sephora stores and a wide range of spas too.

Neals Yard

The entire range of skincare products, covering face and body, features organic plant-based ingredients and no nasties. They use the highest possible percentage of organic ingredients as they are kinder to the earth – and kinder to you. Using ethically sourced herbs, botanicals and essential oils, Neal’s Yard experts handcraft potent blends of love, science and nature. You can view the ingredients lists online and, where space permits, on the packaging. Neal’s Yard shops can be found in various Dubai malls including the Ranches Souk at Arabian Ranches 2. They also have shops in Abu Dhabi (Al Wahda Mall). For more information visit their website.

Jane Iredale

A wide-ranging line of cosmetics formulated with pure micronised minerals and pigments, this all-natural range offers a variety of shades and coloursfor the face, cheeks, eyes and lips. All Jane Iredale products provide protection from both UVA and UVB rays with natural, chemical-free sunscreen actives. Each product is free of perfume, alcohol, chemical additives and artificial dyes, while still offering the coverage of traditional make-up. The Jane Iredale brand is also a strong supporter of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). Buy Jane Iredale from Talise Spa at the MadinatJumeriah.  

Tan Organic

This line of aloe vera-based tanning products give a long lasting, streak free tan and is free from harsh chemicals, parabens, colours and fragrances. The brand sources ingredients from ethically run producers and all products are animal cruelty free.For more information visit www.tanorganic.ae 

If you’re after a bit of healthy pampering, the The Organic Glow Beauty Lounge is Jumeirah 3 is the UAE’s first eco-friendly salon, promoting ethical beauty by using toxic-free, natural, vegan, cruelty-free and organic products, in a “green” setting that respects the environment. For more information call +971 4 380 46 66.

Here’s to healthy skin, inside and out! 

Read more:

Ways to use coconut oil

Stay sun savvy with our guide to the safest sunscreens 

How British Mums Can Look after their Skincare Products

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