Natural Beauty Products From The Arab World

posted on: Aug 5, 2020

by Dani Meyer/Arab America Contributing Writer

Despite many modern beauty products being filled with chemicals, there are many natural beauty products still out there today. Transitioning to a natural beauty regimen might seem hard – but with the help of these secrets from the Arab world, it is made easy! Here are some natural beauty products you may have a vague recollection of your grandma using that you should try out!

1. Aker Fassi

This powder from Morocco is made up of poppy leaves and pomegranate extract. It is usually used as lipstick or blush but can also be mixed with henna to make hair dye. Aker Fassi also is super beneficial for your skin, since poppy leaves have soothing properties and pomegranate is rich in antioxidants. The poppy leaves also have moisturizing, softening, and anti-wrinkle properties.

2. Rhassoul

Rhassoul is mineral clay from the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. It has been used as a natural soap for centuries. Rhassoul is great for both hair and skin. Just mix it with water and use it as a shampoo or body cleanser. Rhassoul is full of minerals like silica, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. It works great as an exfoliator because of its texture and fights dead skin and dandruff. You can also use rhassoul clay to make a great hair mask or face mask!

3. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Olive oil is a natural moisturizer that is great for skin and hair! A secret from the region is to use olive oil instead of sunscreen to get a golden tan (though you should definitely also use sunscreen!). Olive oil is also great as a super nourishing hair mask – you can combine it with coconut oil, avocado, or just on its own! Extra virgin olive oil is rich in Vitamin E, which makes it super hydrating and gives it anti-aging benefits!

4. Miswak

Miswak is a twig made from the arak root. It is used as a natural alternative to the toothbrush! The end is cut or chewed off until fibers are separated, and then teeth are brushed just like a toothbrush. Miswak has natural antiseptic and anti-stringent properties, which prevent tooth decay and gum diseases. It also contains silica, which can fight off plaque and discoloration.

5. Argan Oil

Argan oil is an oil made from argan tree seeds. It is commonly used on the skin for moisturizing and healing properties. It can also be used as a spot treatment for breakouts and scars. Argan oil is additionally used on hair to prevent and repair split ends. The oil contains high levels of fatty acids, which make it great for preventing wrinkles and fighting acne. It also has a lot of Vitamin E, which makes it super hydrating for skin and hair. Argan oil also reduces inflammation and moisturizes the skin without clogging your pores.

6. Frankincense

Frankincense comes from the sap of the Boswellia tree. It is used in perfume but is also super great for reducing scars and blemishes and anti-aging. Frankincense oil can help strengthen and tone the skin and helps strengthen its defense mechanisms against bacteria and blemishes. It also has been proven to have many health benefits, including boosting the immune system, killing bacteria and germs, and reducing stress. A great idea is to add a few drops of frankincense oil to eye creams for a DIY eye oil!

7. Kohl

Kohl is commonly used as an eyeliner and mascara and has been used in the Arab world for thousands of years. It is made by grinding stibnite, a mineral, into a powder. Kohl is used by many people today especially during Ramadan as a sign of devotion.

8. Dead Sea Mud

Mud from the Dead Sea has become hugely popular as a face and body mask. It has highly beneficial and nourishing properties. It is high in many minerals such as magnesium, potassium, iron, and calcium. Mud from the Dead Sea detoxifies and exfoliates the skin, and draws out toxins. It also increases circulation and naturally moisturizes and softens the skin. It has even been found to treat skin conditions like dermatitis and psoriasis.

9. Camel Milk

Yes, that’s right – camel milk! Camel milk is full of incredible vitamins and nutrients that moisturize the skin and prevent aging. It’s super high in iron and Hydroxy acids that help plump the skin and even out fine wrinkles and lines. It also has lanolin, which deeply moisturizes the skin. As well as moisturizing and toning, camel milk soothes inflammation.

10. Figs

Figs are native to the Arab world and are widely known for their health properties. But you might not know that they also have great beauty benefits! Figs are great for the skin. They are known to moisturize, hydrate, cure warts, prevent wrinkles, and help acne and hyperpigmentation. They are also rich in Vitamins C and E, which makes them great for hair health.

Sources:

http://moroccanladies.com/breaking-news/aker-fassi-the-beauty-secret-of-berber-women-11697

https://www.thezoereport.com/p/frankincense-oil-is-like-liquid-gold-for-your-face-17939541#:~:text=%E2%80%9CFrankincense%20benefits%20include%20the%20ability,tissue%20remodeling%E2%80%9D%20properties%2C%20too.

Check out our blog here!