7 Middle Eastern Beauty Practices You Should Try

With its rich cultural heritage, the Middle East offers a treasure trove of beauty secrets passed down through generations. These practices not only emphasize natural ingredients but also promote holistic well-being.

Here’s a look at some Middle Eastern beauty practices you should consider incorporating into your routine for radiant skin, luscious hair, and overall wellness.

Timeless Middle Eastern Beauty Practices You Should Try

1. Argan Oil: The Liquid Gold for Your Skin and Hair

Argan oil, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is a staple in Middle Eastern beauty practices. Sourced from the kernels of the Argan tree, which is native to Morocco, this oil is packed with essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants. Argan oil is incredibly versatile—it moisturizes skin, strengthens hair, and can even be used to treat split ends and tame frizz.

To incorporate argan oil into your routine, apply a few drops to your face before bed for a nourishing overnight treatment or massage it into your scalp and hair to boost shine and softness.

2. Rose Water: A Natural Toner and Refresher

Rose water has been a beauty secret in the Middle East for centuries. This fragrant water acts as a natural toner that helps balance the skin’s pH, reduce redness, and calm irritation. It’s also a great refresher throughout the day, especially in hot climates.

Use rose water as a toner after cleansing your face, or spritz it throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and glowing. You can also add it to your bath for a relaxing, aromatic experience.

3. Kohl: The Ancient Eyeliner

Kohl has been used as eyeliner in the Middle East for thousands of years. Traditionally made from ground stibnite, this deep black powder not only defines the eyes but also has cooling and protective properties. Kohl is believed to protect against the harsh desert sun and prevent eye infections.

If you want to try this ancient beauty practice, look for natural kohl powders or eyeliners and apply them to your waterline for a bold, dramatic look.

4. Henna: For Stunning Hair and Intricate Body Art

Henna is a versatile plant that’s been used in the Middle East for hair dyeing and body art. When applied to hair, henna acts as a natural conditioner, strengthening the strands while imparting a rich, reddish-brown hue.

On the skin, henna is used to create intricate temporary tattoos, especially during celebrations and weddings.

To use henna, mix the powder with water to form a paste. For hair, apply the paste and leave it on for a few hours before rinsing out. For body art, use a fine-tipped applicator to create designs on your skin.

5. Turmeric: The Golden Spice for Glowing Skin

Turmeric is another Middle Eastern beauty secret with powerful benefits. Turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helps to brighten the skin, reduce acne, and even out skin tone. It’s commonly used in face masks to achieve a natural glow.

Create a turmeric face mask by mixing turmeric powder with yogurt or honey and applying it to your face for 10-15 minutes. Be sure to thoroughly rinse as turmeric can leave a temporary yellow tint on the skin.

6. Olive Oil: The All-Purpose Beauty Elixir

Olive oil has been a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern beauty staple for centuries. Rich in vitamins A and E, as well as antioxidants, olive oil deeply moisturizes the skin, nourishes hair, and can even be used as a gentle makeup remover.

Use olive oil as a nightly moisturizer by massaging a few drops into your skin. For hair, apply it as a pre-shampoo treatment to add moisture and shine.

7. Black Seed Oil: The Ancient Remedy for Everything

Black seed oil, also known as Nigella sativa or kalonji oil, is a powerful ingredient in Middle Eastern beauty practices. It’s renowned for its ability to treat a wide range of issues, from skin conditions to hair loss. Rich in fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, black seed oil can help to soothe inflammation, moisturize the skin, and promote hair growth.

Incorporate black seed oil into your routine by applying it directly to the scalp to stimulate hair growth or using it as a facial oil to nourish and protect the skin.

Embrace These Middle Eastern Beauty Practices

The beauty practices of the Middle East are deeply rooted in tradition and emphasize using natural, effective ingredients. By incorporating these timeless rituals into your routine, you can achieve external beauty and a sense of inner well-being.

Whether it’s the nourishing power of argan oil or the skin-brightening benefits of turmeric, these practices offer a holistic approach to beauty that’s time-tested and transformative.

Cath

Cath initially pursued a Doctor of Medicine degree but eventually shifted her focus to writing. While she remains passionate about health and wellness, she also explores beauty and fashion as a creative outlet. Her diverse interests empower her to blend scientific insight with artistic expression.