Dehydration is real people. Fasting is a cherished act, and the spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional benefits are supreme. However, there’s no doubt the disrupted sleep patterns and prolonged periods without water, can wreak havoc with our skin.

Let’s focus on the positives. Firstly, the beauty of Ramadan is that it teaches millions of people around the world the art of discipline and how integral it is to take care of our bodies, skin included. Secondly, with the advances in skincare over the last few decades, we are now lucky enough to have a wealth of, not only information and knowledge at our moisturiser-laden fingertips, but some of the best, scientifically-developed products on the market.

We tapped a few dermatologists for a few tips on how to keep your skin hydrated and healthy during a fast.

The problem

Water is integral to the skin's balance. Without it, many things slow down. The first thing you’ll usually notice when lacking in water from the inside, is a dull and slightly saggy complexion. This happens because our skin cells are essentially 75% water, which helps them stay plump versus shrinking. As they shrink your skin becomes drier and can appear less radiant.

The solution

Adding more steps to your skincare routine can help combat any new concerns.

Exfoliate

We know it’s uber important, but right now there’s even more pressure to “shed the dead”. Exfoliating your skin will keep things fresh and allow skin cells to turnover faster and more efficiently. Don’t overdo it though, as this will only dry things out more. We hear you. Do we exfoliate or not? We’d go with twice a week before using a hydrating cream and sheet masks.

Cleanse

When fasting it’s better to switch to a gentle cream-based cleanser that will aid in retaining moisture. A good, hydrating facial cleanser, or one containing squalene, will keep things as moist as possible. It’s also a good idea to use slightly cooler water to keep your skin from drying out any more than absolutely necessary.

Boost

Additionally, it’s a critical time to harness the power of serums and products containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalene, and dimethicone, all of which will help the skin hold onto water.

Daytime pick-me-up

For a brightness boost, remember your Vitamin C for a more glowy and radiant look. During Ramadan, when your sleep schedule can be interrupted, it will really help revive skin when it needs it.

Moisturise

Probably THE most important part of a routine — with the obvious exception of that sunscreen layer boys and girls — is to slap on as much moisturiser as you can handle. To be honest, it’ll be hard to overdo it at this time. Try creams loaded with either squalene or hyaluronic acid and you’ll already be ahead of the game.

Lips

Ramadan is the perfect excuse to get diligent about using lip balms for moisture (if you don’t already). This will help keep things plump and glowing, even if you’re not feeling it on the inside.

Mask

This is the month you’ve been waiting for. Use those moments of reflection and multi-task by popping on a face mask. A Vitamin C mask in the morning, or at lunch, will help brighten things up, and you can use a hydrating face mask before sleeping to lock the moisture into the skin and maximise the impact of the active ingredients.