Navigating Beauty As a Black Girl In Dubai

by Hayley Alexander

Navigating Beauty As a Black Girl In Dubai: Salons And Products

7 Aug 2024

Instagram: @allumwellness Source: beautyboxuae.com; world.davines.com

For make-up and skincare, my go-to sites are THEKÜR (the-cure) — if you don’t know, get to know. The least of your worries here is finding a foundation shade that will not suit your skin type. I am also a big fan of Ounass — I don’t mind buying my make-up online as I tend to know what I like and stick to it. I very rarely change products, although how annoying is it when the shade is discontinued! I travel a fair bit, so my itinerary always has a gap when I head to a large pharmacy store that stocks a good range of beauty products. I am like a kid in a candy shop. It is my favourite thing to do, spending hours stocking up on new bits I have seen on social media or if I like the ingredients and the promised outcome. Okay, I am a sucker for beauty advertisements.

To provide a more comprehensive perspective, I spoke with three friends who shared their experiences as Black women living in Dubai.

The self-care queen, Zainab Imichi Alhassan, is not gate-keeping her routine. Take notes, ladies.

“I start my summer skincare prep during the cooler months to ensure my skin is healthy and ready for a makeup-free summer. Twice a year, I treat myself to a chemical peel at The Aesthetics Clinic in Al Furjan and indulge in a few sessions of laser facials at Skin Laundry”. “In the shower, I’m a big fan of Kiehl’s Calendula Face Wash, Clarins Shower Concentrates and Molton Brown Oudh Accord & Gold Shower Gel, all available at Ounass. When it comes to my hair, I am all about low maintenance. I visit AfroDiva and Kinky Afro Salons, but when I’m feeling homebound, I have someone come over to braid my hair. Currently, I love Beyoncé's Cécred products and discovering amazing finds from THEKÜR. If you are a black girl in the UAE, THEKÜR is your go-to for hair care products and tools”.

“I’m also a huge fan of a good summer spa session, and I’m obsessed with the aesthetics and treatments at the newly launched Casa Aire. I can’t wait to try their Korean facials-plus, it’s black-owned!” Zainab Imichi Alhassan gave us her black girl-approved beauty list.

Kami Leonne's top tip for her soft skin is Virgin Marula Luxury Oil. She says: “I have combination skin, so it's taken me a while to find something that works and doesn’t leave me looking super shiny. I usually add two drops with my moisturiser, before applying sunscreen. At night I use two drops of natural Vitamin E Oil, which I normally order from Amazon.”

“As it’s summer, I’m taking care of my skin by using good sun protection Coola Sun Silk Drops, I ditch my foundation, but I still want light coverage, so I use Fenty Beauty Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint.” Jennifer Kolomoni talks us through her hair care routine, “I’m obsessed with Camille Rose Honey Hydrate leave in, especially during the summer; it’s super tricky to find in Dubai, I have to order it online. Shout out to Brown Sugar Salon with the Hawaiian Silky Moisture Repair Masque, which helps rehydrate my hair.” Jennifer Kolomoni letting us know what is up.

Being a Black woman in Dubai presents unique beauty challenges, but the landscape is gradually changing for the better. With the rise of specialised salons and stores, it is becoming easier for Black expats to find the products and services they need. Community support and shared experiences also play a crucial role in navigating these challenges. So, whether you are new to Dubai or considering a move, rest assured that the city is becoming more inclusive for all hair types and beauty needs.

by Hayley Alexander