As the sun-kissed days of summer arrive in the UAE, our skin faces challenges that demand a little more TLC than usual. With scorching heat and humidity causing dehydration, a heightened risk of UV damage and increased oil production leading to pesky breakouts, the summer season can really take a toll on our precious complexion.
Taking the necessary steps to protect our skin is essential, not only to keep a youthful glow but also to ensure its long-term health. Thankfully, there are a host of effective solutions available to help us enjoy the long days of summer without causing long-term damage to our skin or the planet.
To take the endless scroll through the digital beauty jungle off your hands, we’ve done the digging for you. Here you’ll find the most planet-loving, hydrating and protective serums, creams, oils and more to ensure your skin is ready to face summer’s challenges while also giving a little love to Mother Earth.
The Summer Skincare Serums
Comfort Zone Hydramemory Water Source Serum- AED 330
The Comfort Zone Hydramemory Water Source Serum is our ultimate summer skin quencher. This refreshing, lightweight serum is designed to deliver intense hydration and a radiant glow to even the most dehydrated and dull skin. The innovative formula features prickly pear extract and a quenching, fast-absorbing texture, making it perfect for hot days.
As part of Comfort Zone’s Hydramemory line, the Water Source Serum is also infused with hyaluronic acid, which helps to restore moisture and protect the skin barrier, providing immediate moisturising effects that keep your skin looking fresh and radiant all summer long.
Comfort Zone, part of the Davines Group, is B Corp certified, reflecting the company’s commitment to a positive impact on the planet. They have achieved this through the use of sustainable ingredients, packaging, and renewable energy, as well as fair labour practices.
Glow Recipe’s Avocado Ceramide Recovery Serum AED175
This innovative product is formulated with a blend of potent plant-based ingredients, including nutrient-rich avocado extract and butter, strengthening ceramides, and calming allantoin and rice milk perfect for reducing visible redness and irritation caused by sun exposure. Designed to soothe, hydrate and strengthen compromised skin this is a game-changer for those dealing with dryness or a weakened skin barrier.
Glow Recipe is officially Carbon Neutral Certified and is working towards reaching net-zero. From responsibly sourcing ingredients to using eco-friendly packaging and sustainable shipping, they are committed to respecting both your skin and the planet.
Ignae Blue Light Serum with UV Protection AED 459
This serum is a digital detox for your summer skin, thanks to Ignae’s EPC Factor, a biotechnology that works to neutralise the harmful effects of environmental pollutants, including UVA, UVB, IR-A radiation and high energy blue light. A super lightweight serum, it has the ability to shield your skin from the blue light waves found in monitors, smartphones, and tablets which can lead to skin damage, hyperpigmentation and premature ageing.
Packed with powerful ingredients including calendula, this hydrating serum goes deep into your skin layers helping to restore it on a cellular level. It’s also great for calming, soothing, and reducing inflammation making it the perfect addition to your skincare routine this summer season.
The Summer Skincare Creams
Apothecary REVIVE Barrier Repair Day Cream SPF20 AED 65
The Apothecary REVIVE Barrier Repair Day Cream SPF20 is a true summer skin saviour. This powerhouse product not only delivers an instant moisture boost, but also protects your skin with built-in SPF 20. The real magic happens over time, as this day cream has been clinically proven to improve skin barrier function and provide 72 hours of moisture. Regular use will help your skin feel healthier, look plump and radiant and give you that coveted glow.
With the EcoSun Pass seal of approval, you can trust that this cream is not only good for your skin, but also kind to the environment. Sounds like a win-win to us!
Skin Story Bare Multistick with SPF 50, AED 160
Meet the Bare Multistick, your new go-to for effortless beauty this summer. A versatile, lightweight makeup product designed for use on both skin and lips, it provides all-day hydration, SPF 50 sun protection and anti-aging properties. Packed with moisturising, calming and anti-ageing ingredients like castor and moringa oil, the multistick helps soothe, detox and nourish the skin while providing a smooth, non-greasy finish.
Skin Story celebrates women of all skin tones seeking non-toxic, clean beauty products. Their focus on sustainability and responsible ingredient sourcing ensures their products are both effective and environmentally friendly.
The Stuf. Face Cream AED 175
The Stuf. face cream is a hydrating, soothing and firming daily face cream that acts like a spa treatment for your skin. Packed with naturally active ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, Davidson Plum Extract, Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Folic Acid and Zinc, it’s the ultimate cream for a healthy, radiant complexion morning or night.
Made in Australia, vegan, cruelty-free, made with natural ingredients, non-toxic and using recyclable packaging, Stuf. is not just good for your skin, but also the planet. A a guilt-free beauty addition to your summer skin routine.
The Summer Skincare Oils
Kathryn Jones Squalane Oil AED 98
Founded by Dubai based Kathryn Jones, these hand blended serums are made-to-order every month using only the freshest, most effective ingredients. Squalane is known for its hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties, can help with acne and eczema and even benefits your hair. Initially sourced from shark liver (eeek) it is now derived from plants like olive oil, rice and sugar cane.
KJ serums pride themselves on no-nonsense, pared-down products that use potent natural ingredients, offering effective anti-aging solutions without breaking the bank. Trust us, your skin will thank you for the TLC.
RelaxayVoo Day Face Oil AED 270
UK based RelaxayVoo offer a variety of certified organic body and face oils made with carefully selected natural ingredients. Committed to using hand-blended ingredients only, including essential oils sourced from France, these little bottles are powerhouses packed with ingredients to replenish, protect and renew the skin.
Their day oil is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, helping to neutralise the harmful effects of UV radiation and maintain moisture levels in your skin during hot summer days. Camellia and Evening Primrose offer lightweight hydration while Rose Otto and Sandal Wood uplift and energise while combating visible signs of aging caused by sun exposure. Relaxayvoo recommends applying 5 drops onto clean, damp skin, which can serve as both a serum and moisturiser.
The Summer Skincare Extras
Bamteek Golden Towels AED 80
Bamteek Golden Towels are the perfect eco-friendly addition to your skincare routine. Non-biodegradable face wipes are predominantly made of plastic fibers and can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills. These single-use face towels however are not only ultra-soft and highly absorbent but also completely biodegradable, making them a sustainable choice for those who care about both their skin and the environment.
Crafted from bamboo, Bamteek Golden Towels are gentle on your skin, durable, and suitable for various uses, including removing makeup, wiping away mask residue or cleansing with oil.
Aceology Probiotic Restoring Biodegradeable Mask AED 295 (pack 4)
Ths mask is the ultimate summer skin quencher. A lightweight sheet mask infused with cryogenically-fermented probiotics and hyaluronic acid, it nourishes, calms and protects your skin, while a powerful blend of 10 probiotics strengthens, moisturises, and smoothes your complexion. The highly absorbable form of hyaluronic acid instantly hydrates your skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and revitalised.
As an added bonus, this sheet mask is cruelty-free, so you can pamper your skin with peace of mind. This is a drink your skin will love.