Unlock Radiant Beauty with Timeless Arab Rituals

It is no secret that the beauty industry is constantly changing with new serums, social media influencers, and newly released tools. Imagine finding out that the most helpful beauty practices are some thar are over a thousand years old, extremely affordable, and extremely effective. Arab beauty rituals are reliable and natural practices that have kept women glowing worldwide, from royal palaces to desert villages. Having spent years experimenting with skincare, I have come to appreciate the beauty in these simple, yet powerful traditions. These practices enable one to look and feel good, all while being easy on the wallet, regardless of one’s lifestyle or budget.

In this article, I will share some tips that I believe can improve the beauty practices of most women and make them easier to carry out, based on eight tips inspired by Arab beauty practices. Self-care shouldn’t be stressful; these methods will seamlessly blend into a hectic routine or a more relaxed lifestyle. Ready to glow like a desert queen? Grab a cup of tea, and let’s dive in!

1. Line Your Eyes with Kohl for Beauty and Protection

Kohl surely deserves its classic status. This iconic eyeliner is more than just an eye cosmetic. It is also a deeply rooted cultural icon with numerous benefits. Women all around the Arab world used kohl to create that bold, smokey look, but kohl is also a natural protector. Kohl is made from ground minerals and helps shield eyes from the sun, reduces glare, and protects from wounds thanks to its antibacterial nature. Using kohl during a dusty summer trip worked wonderfully as my eyes did not suffer any redness or irritation.

Buy a kohl stick or powder (most beauty stores have them) and gently line your waterline to create a fierce look or simply smudge it around the outer corners for a softer effect. Pro tip: If application makes you anxious, attempt using a small brush for control. The results are impressive and low maintenance.

2. Mist Your Skin with Rose Water for a Dewy Glow

Rose water is embraced by your skin as if it were hugging. This makes rose water a beauty essential. It balances your skin’s pH, alleviates redness, and soothes the skin with a spark of glow. During a hectic work week, I turned to it and the relief it brought to my tired complexion with just a simple spritz was remarkable. Most importantly, it suits all skin types, be it dry, oily, or even sensitive. 

After cleansing, I recommend soaking a cotton pad with rose water and sweeping it gently over the face. You may also spritz it over your skin mid-day or use it as a makeup setting spray. You will find rose water at your nearby grocery store for a pocket-friendly price, or you can create one by boiling rose petals. Head over to my Instagram account for a quick DIY recipe. With how effortless it is, you’ll surely be wondering why you did not begin sooner.

3. Treat Yourself to the Benefits of Argan Oil, The Golden Oil

Argan oil which is now known to many people as “golden liquid” is a beauty product from Morocco. It works wonders for frizzy hair and for skin that is prone to acne or aging because it is filled with vitamin E and fatty acids. After using it for the first time, I woke up with skin so smooth that it felt like silk. It also works wonders on split ends.

For skincare, massage the oil directly on the skin after cleansing and gently rub it to warm a few drops. For hair, rub the oil directly on the scalp, or mix it in with your conditioner. To prevent greasiness, use only a small amount. Try to purchase pure argan oil from health websites or don’t physical stores as it is worth the expense.

4. Restore Weak Hair Using Henna’s Natural Treatments

Henna was solely used back then for intricate hand designs, but now many people regard it as a natural treatment for the hair. Most people don’t know this, but Henna is a hair curing miracle in the arab world because it strengthens the hair, adds shine and a mild reddish tint. A friend of mine who suffered from hair thinning used %30 henna and swears by it. To everybody’s astonishment, only in weeks did she get thicker and healthier hair. Henna also works great in the summer because of its cooling essence.

To make a healing paste for your hair, mix henna powder with water, adding yogurt if you prefer more moisture. Let the paste sit on your hair for a few hours before rinsing it off. While yes, the process can be time consuming, consider it to be a self-care treatment. Prefer no tint to your hair? You can still enjoy the benefits of henna by using colorless henna.

5. Revive with Black Seed Oil for Hair and Skin 

Multipurpose miracle, “black seed oil” also referred to as “the seed of blessing”, certainly lives up to its name, helping with hair growth while also reducing scalp irritability or acne and scar blemishes on the skin. After I started massaging it into my scalp on top of my other hair care treatments, I noticed my hair felt stronger and less prone to breakage. Black seed oil works best if you’re dealing with thinning hair or dry areas on the scalp. 

Before washing, apply a few drops to your scalp or dab it on dry skin. For easier application, mix it into face masks where its strong scent will be less noticeable. If strong scents are overwhelming, it can always be diluted with a carrier oil like jojoba. I assure you; the outcome is worth the hassle.

6. Cleopatra’s Secret: Moisturizing with Olive Oil

Olive oil isn’t limited to only culinary purposes, this centuries-old beauty secret is reputed and said to have been used Cleopatra herself. Antioxidants present in olive oil helps kill dry skin, diminishes wrinkles, and heals damaged hair. Olive oil mixed with sugar is a wonderful remedy for a DIY body scrub. After use, the skin feels baby-soft and supple. You will get a million uses from this versatile oil.

Apply a thin layer of olive oil to dry skin or rub warmed oil into your scalp before washing it after 30 minutes for deep conditioning. Afraid of feeling oily? Use less and wash out thoroughly. Instead of buying expensive products first try this remedy. Chances are you have a bottle lying in your kitchen.

7. For youthful skin, Saffron can act as a natural highlighter to brighten the face

Some would believe that saffron is rather expensive but in fact, a pinch will serve the purpose. Never the less, this golden spice helps improve skin brightness, lightens persisting pigmented areas, and helps maintain a young glow. I have used a saffron mask and in my dull-skin phase I can assure, my face looked lit-from-within after one use.

After applying the mask for 15 minutes, rinse with water to reveal the instant results. For a visual guide, see this Instagram tutorial. The milk or honey application can feel a bit extravagant, but the results speak for themselves. Your skin will appreciate it.

8. Glow with Masked Wonders of Camel Milk

Camel milk may sound absurd, but it’s incredibly beneficial for the skin due to its antioxidants and vitamin content. It moisturizes, soothes dry skin, and helps with fine wrinkles. I was dubious too, but after trying a camel milk mask I was sold. It feels astonishing, especially in winter.

To create a mask, blend camel milk powder with water, apply it for 20 minutes, then rinse. It can be purchased online or in specialty stores. If this isn’t your preferred choice, don’t be concerned; all other tips are equally beneficial. But if you are intrigued, this option is certainly a fun experiment!

And there it is—eight simple and equally transformative Arab beauty rituals. To glow like royalty, you do not need to have a lavish schedule or spend a lot of money. Choose a single tip that resonates with you, like sprinkling rose water or using kohl for some delightful eye magic, and build from there. Have fun experimenting with these rituals and make them yours. Allow guidance from ancient wisdom alongside your natural radiance. Which tip are you trying first? You can do it!