Revive Your Raya Glow With These Expert Beauty Tips From An Aesthetics Doctor

Are you ready for Hari Raya Aidilfitri? Since the joyous day is practically upon us, we truly hope that your answer is a resounding yes! Anticipation aside, would you say that the state of your skin is as prepared as you are? Don’t get us wrong, countless studies have proven that fasting comes with various health benefits. However, since those who observe the month aren’t allowed to eat or drink from sunrise to sunset for 30 consecutive days—not to mention the disorganised sleep schedule from waking up for sahur—it’s safe to say that your skin won’t be at its best when the month is over. Expect dehydrated skin and a dull complexion, leaving you far from Raya-ready!

To answer all your burning questions about the best ways to take care of your skin during Ramadan and Hari Raya, our Insiders have enlisted the help of an expert. Dr. Shi Hong Kai, also known as Dr. Kai, is an aesthetics doctor at Singapore’s own S Aesthetics Clinic. As a professional who is passionate about combining the art of aesthetics with effective skincare, Dr. Kai has you and the condition of your skin covered. Be sure to take notes so you can utilise his tips now and for the years to come.

Beauty Tips from Dr. Shi Hong Kai for Raya

• How do we maintain supple and glowing skin throughout hectic Hari Raya celebrations?

Dr. Kai: Prioritise consistent skincare routines, adequate hydration, and sufficient rest. The disruption of normal sleep wake cycles may actually be more detrimental than the act of fasting itself, so do make sure you get sufficient sleep daily. Consume a varied diet high in antioxidants, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids and avoid sugary or processed food. Combine these with targeted and effective skincare regimes as well as facials and you will be sure to look your absolute best during the celebrations.

• You recommend getting facials before Hari Raya. What are the best facials to get and why?

Dr. Kai: For Hari Raya, consider facials that focus on hydration, brightening, and rejuvenation to achieve a radiant complexion. Hydrafacial is a multi-step treatment that deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates the skin, leaving it smooth and plump. Biologique Recherche facials offer personalised skincare using all natural potent serums and techniques tailored to your skin’s needs, leading to healthy and radiant skin that glows.

• When is the best time to get a facial for Hari Raya?

Dr. Kai: It is best to schedule facials 10 to 14 days before Hari Raya to allow any potential redness or sensitivity to subside and to ensure optimal results for glowing skin during the celebrations.

Bonus: Beauty Tips For Next Ramadan

• Are there any skin benefits gained from fasting? Inversely, are there any downsides?

Dr. Kai: While fasting during Ramadan may offer potential benefits for the skin, as demonstrated in a recent randomised controlled trial by Maloh et al. in 2023, where participants following a fasting-mimicking diet exhibited improvements in both skin roughness and hydration, it’s important to note the differences in fasting practices. Unlike the trial where participants could consume liquids at all times, fasting during Ramadan involves abstaining from dawn to dusk. This prolonged fasting period can lead to dehydration, contributing to dryness, dullness, and exacerbation of existing skin conditions such as eczema or acne.

• How do we combat our skin’s depleted hydration levels during Ramadan as well as for Hari Raya?

Dr. Kai: To ensure adequate hydration of both the body and the skin, it is essential to prioritise hydration during non-fasting hours. Drink plenty of water to replenish lost moisture and avoid drinks with high sugar content. During this period, use toners, serums, and creams targeted towards hydration, containing proven hydrating ingredients such as low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, Vitamin A, C, and niacinamide.

• Do you have any diet recommendations that will help improve skin condition during fasting?

Dr. Kai: It is important to have a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats during Ramadan. Food high in antioxidants, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids help to support skin health and combat inflammation. While it is tempting to reach for sugary or processed food during iftar, excessive consumption of these type of food can lead to skin issues like acne and premature ageing.

• Can we maintain our regular skincare routines during fasting? If not, what are the necessary changes we have to make and why?

Dr. Kai: It is especially important to focus on and maintain your skincare regime during Ramadan. Focus on gentle cleansing, hydrating, and moisturising your skin during non-fasting hours. Use toners, serums and creams targeted towards hydration and avoid using harsh or drying products. You can also consider avoiding topical retinoids during the Ramadan period to prevent further dryness and irritation.

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