9 Skincare Products To Support Your Skin Through Ramadan

For Muslims all over the globe, Ramadan marks 30 days of fasting from dawn to dusk. In the holy month of Ramadan, it’s part of the Islamic practice to engage in a fast, as well as reflection and prayer. 

While it’s not spoken about, fasting can have a real effect on the skin. Our skin is temperamental; weather, humidity and even pillowcases can affect it, so it’s no surprise that Ramadan does too. Fasting can disrupt the skin, especially the skin’s hydration levels. Avoiding drinking liquids for long periods of time, especially if you’re carrying your daily life as normal, can result in a negative water balance. 

The sleep disruption and poor sleep can raise cortisol levels and affect the skin barrier function, resulting in further skin dehydration. Plus, changes in a sleeping pattern will inevitably result in dark circles, puffy eyes, or both. But one of the main skin concerns from fasting is dull or lacklustre skin. A combination of tiredness and dehydration leave the skin feeling less than glowy. 

Alas, these skincare woes can be easily remedied with the right skincare products. Brightening and glow-boosting ingredients such as vitamin C, lactic acid, and glycolic acid can help to give the skin that much-needed radiance. Aim to focus on skin rehydration to replace lost fluids and incorporate a targeted eye cream or serum into your routine to tackle the effects sleep loss and promote clear skin.

Keep reading for nine skin saviours to include in your Ramadan skincare routine. 

This potent double-action hydrator delivers an instant dose of hydration to parched skin. The mask is formulated with hyaluronic acid, which works to keep the skin’s moisture levels high at the skin’s barrier, while the addition of algae and squalane help to keep the skin hydrated. Perfect for Ramadan as the mask can be worn overnight for those long nights. 

One of the most effective and affordable serums available. The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum rejuvenates and brightens the skin, while encouraging a smoother complexion and a stronger skin barrier. Apply morning and evening before your creams for best results.

While you might not be allowed to have your morning coffee, your under-eye area certainly can. This silky cream from Mario Badescu delivers instant hydration and radiance. Caffeine and terminalia arjuna extract work together to bring down puffiness on application, while sodium hyaluronate and jojoba nourish and hydrate the delicate area. Hydrating and revitalising, it’s the perfect eye cream for the Ramadan skincare routine.  

Designed to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, this Beauty of Joseon SPF50+ is powered by a blend of probiotics and rice extract to strengthen the skin barrier and protect it against damage and dehydration. It also nourishes the skin, thanks to its silky texture and hydrating formula. 

An instant boost of glowy goodness is the perfect skincare pick-me-up. Formulated with shea and murumuru butters, the Laneige Lip Glow Balm nourishes the lips and gives them a glossy, slightly tinted finish. A saviour during Ramadan, this balm leaves lips shiny and healthy looking.

A powerful cocktail of black tree extract, salicylic acid and white willow bark work to gently exfoliate the skin while keeping blemishes at bay – the changes in your routine can cause havoc and result in breakouts. A super lightweight formula that instantly absorbs into the skin to work its magic. 

A toner is a great way to target specific skin concerns. Opt for a brightening toner to revive and combat the lacklustre skin. This offering from florence by mills is packed with vitamins and antioxidants to give the skin a natural radiance. Formulated with antioxidant rich Agastache Mexicana, the toner works to brighten and even out skin tone, while the lavender and cucumber water help to cool and refresh. 

Created with manuka honey, the golden natural elixir of ultimate health. These Foreo face masks work a treat, to instantly refresh dry, tired, and dull skin. Manuka honey is full of nutrients and antioxidant properties to soothe and hydrate, a quick fix for all Ramadan skin.

Restoring a sense of calm back to your base, a gua sha helps to reduce facial tension and lymphatic drainage, while allowing your favourite skincare formulas to absorb more effectively. This one is a must-have for the times your skin needs a pick-me-up.