by farah - December 7, 2019

I bought the Natasha Denona BIBA palette and here is my HONEST review

Are you thinking of getting the Natasha Denona BIBA palette for Christmas?

If you’re still on the fence whether to say bye bye to your precious cash or skip this product… then read on!

I’m giving you my honest to goodness opinion about this much talked about product!

So, why did I get this palette?

As a professional makeup artist, I try my best to keep up with the new makeup trends and products.

Many of my clients who book me for their parties and weddings are very knowledgeable now about makeup brands and they often ask me about the products I use.

This is one of the reasons why I made sure that I had to have this palette. I wanted to test it out and see if this brand will be something that I will continuously use.

What’s in it?

In a nutshell, the BIBA palette has 15 ultimate eyeshadows in a range of colors from mauves and burgundies, to warm grays and black.

But sadly, my black shadow came in completely broken. (Had it shipped)

In terms of formula – depending on the shade, they all have the signature ND formulas:

CP– Richly pigmented wet powder formula that is easy to blend.

CM– ND’s Signature matte formula is creamy to the touch and seamlessly blends on the lid.

CK– Sparkling cream powder finely milled pearls and crystals for a dazzling diamond-like sparkle effect. Sheer finish.

M– metallics in multiple textures

SO, what’s good about this palette?

Let’s start with the PROS…

This palette is great if you DON’T HAVE any other neutral palette.

If you’re a beginner who’s looking for a starter palette…

If your eyeshadow palette is totally gone and you need a brand new one.

WHY?

The BIBA palette is great for you because the range of colors allows you to use it every day – whether for work of for casual everyday makeup.

The darker and metallic colors also give you the flexibility to use them for more formal or glam events as you can also create SMOKEY or BRONZY looks.

Another PLUS?

The shadows are also easy to work with and almost NO fall-out…

making them the BEST PALETTE to have if you’re just starting out with makeup.

For professionals…

the palette also comes with “HOLES” at the back so you can easily depot the colors into your professional palette.

Are there negatives?

Okay, HERE’S THE DEAL:

The Natasha Denona BIBA palette is priced at 500 Dirhams in UAE (around $135 USD).

For an eyeshadow palette, that’s quite expensive. $$$$$$$$$$$$$$

To put it in perspective, that’s ALMOST DOUBLE the price of a Huda Beauty or an Urban Decay eyeshadow palette!

If you are a professional makeup artist, I would bet that you probably have these shades already or very similar shades in your collection.

For this reason, it becomes an unnecessary expense for you, unless of course, you need to stock up on your eyeshadow palettes.

If you are on a budget and you can’t get your hands on this…

REGRET NOT! All the shades are dupable, but of course, will not have the same formulation.

If money is NOT an issue,

everyone would love this palette because of the AMAZING formula – whether you’re a beginner, makeup enthusiast or a professional MUA like me.

MY PERSONAL TAKE?

All in all, it is a good palette. I will continue using it.

Will I buy it again?

Probably NOT, I will wait for another Natasha Denona Palette with more unique shades in the future.

FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM TO WATCH OUT FOR MY TUTORIAL FEATURING THE NATASHA DENONA BIBA PALETTE

@farahmakeupandhair

by farah - November 21, 2019November 21, 2019

Why being brave is beautiful… How facing my fears made me a stronger woman

What would you do if an amazing but totally unexpected opportunity comes your way?

The old me?

I probably would have said NO.

I probably would’ve shied away and turn my back.

I probably would’ve let my fear prevail.

At the beginning of 2019, this was what almost happened until I made a brave decision…

I was hired to do the makeup and hair for the UAE Emirates ID TV Commercial. it was a very BIG DEAL.

The TVC will air all over UAE Emirates ID social media channels.

Of course, I was so excited!

I was in my element and i single handedly did the hair, makeup, and grooming of all the talents.

The shoot was almost done when suddenly one of the production staff realized that they needed to shoot one more scene but many of the female talents left already for the day.

Oh, No!

On my part, I was worried that I had to do makeup on a new talent and there was pressure that I must finish the job quickly before we lose more time for the shoot.

But there’s a catch:

They need ONE more female talent!

The staff then looked at me and asked me:

Can you be the female talent?!

I was shocked!

I’ve never appeared or acted in any TV project before… my only experience was doing YouTube and Instagram videos!

What if I mess up the shoot?

What If I make mistakes?

What if I cause more delays?

All these fears and uncertainties were swimming in my brain… i was terrified.

But then the staff talked to me and said, i don’t need to be scared as they will guide me. Not to mention, i get to be paid a separate Talent Fee for the job

Amidst all the chaos in my head, i decided…

What the heck? I’ll go for it!

I decided not to let my FEARS win…

i decided to be brave…

I can do this!

While my experience has always been behind the scenes, i told myself that trying something new will be good for me!

So, i promptly fixed myself and in no time, i was on set.

It was so fast… it was like a dream!

It was finished before I even realized it.

Honestly, I can’t even remember the details because I was so overwhelmed!

A few weeks after that… I started to get some calls and messages.

From friends, family, even clients!

They said they saw me on TV and on Facebook!

I realized that the TVC is ON AIR so I quickly checked it out.

At first, it felt strange seeing myself in such a major project but after watching it a few times, i felt a mix of excitement and pride.

I felt fulfilled that I was able to go out of my comfort zone and accomplish something I never imagined I could do!!!

It was amazing!

The bonus?

Old clients who saw the TVC booked me again for makeup and I got new clients too!

I was surprised that my small celebrity exposure paid off! It brought me new jobs!

It was a great learning for me and I hope for you to.

When an opportunity knocks, grab it!

Be brave, it makes you more beautiful!

Don’t let your fears win!

You are amazing!

BTW: Here’s the link to the TVC if you want to see

by farah - August 24, 2018August 24, 2018

How to achieve Glass Skin using products available in Dubai? Here’s a comprehensive 10 – Step Korean Skincare Beauty Guide.

One beauty trend that is becoming a craze online is the GLASS SKIN effect. But what exactly does it mean by having glass skin?

Glass skin means your skin is so clear, luminescent, and glowing that your pores are almost invisible! This became popular with the rise of Korean beauty trends. Just try to use Google to search for photos of Korean superstars and you’ll see what I mean!

Can it be achieved using makeup alone?

Although I am a fan of makeup to enhance beauty and boost confidence, I am also a great believer of skin care. After all, when you have a beautiful base for your makeup products, the effect will be so much better.

DISCLAIMER!!!

This Glass Skin skin care routine is NOT AN INSTANT, QUICK FIX solution so please don’t expect to wake up the next day having Glass Skin! This is a gradual, maintenance routine that will improve your skin over time and prevent it from looking tired, dry and aging.

This also needs MAJOR commitment. It is a 10- step routine, morning AND night. However, you do not need to perform all 10 steps every single day as two of the steps should only be performed twice a week. But yes, that still leaves you with 8 steps morning and night.

It may seem really long but really, if you time it, the 8 steps will only take you around 10 min max, less for some people. So that’s really just a short time to invest on your personal skin care! I suggest playing your favorite song to occupy your brain so you don’t get bored!

So, one major problem is – what products can you use? Do you need to buy Korean skin care products? Is it expensive? Well, let me help you out by giving you the 10 – step skin care by recommending products you can buy from UAE, and available here.

WHAT: 10-Step Glass Skin Beauty Routine

WHEN: 2X DAILY Morning and Night – 8 Steps will take around 10 minutes & 2X A WEEK – 10 Steps will take around 25-30 minutes

STEP 1: OIL CLEANSING

A lot of YouTube Videos and articles online suggest using commercial oil cleansers, but really, you can actually use the oils in your kitchen! Which exactly? Before you put on the frying oil on your face, you need a good quality oil that is non-comedogenic which means it should NOT clog your pores!

Method:

DAILY Morning and Night
Place a small amount of oil on your palm and massage on your face for a couple of minutes
Soak a soft wash cloth or microfiber cloth in warm water and slowly wipe the oil from your face. Do this twice until the oil is removed.
TIP: Microfiber cloth for skin care can be expensive but it is actually the same cloth you see in the CAR section of the Department store! You can purchase a set for AED 20 at Carrefour or you can get these at SOUQ as well for as low at 4- 6 dirhams!

Where to buy:

Good choices widely available in UAE are Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Castor Oil, Almond Oil, Argan Oil and Sunflower Oil. You can buy this in Carrefour or in any pharmacy or supermarket. Make sure you are buying a PURE oil not just something that is mixed.

Don’t use essential oils – do not apply directly on skin as this should ALWAYS be diluted with a base oil and applying undiluted is dangerous! Also AVOID Coconut oil as it can clog your pores!

STEP 2: FOAM CLEANSING

After the oil cleansing, time to cleanse again! This time, use the cleanser you normally use daily which your skin is used to.

Method:

DAILY Morning and Night
Place a small amount on your palm and lather to create a foam and gently massage on your face for a couple of minutes
Rinse with warm water or with the wash cloth.

Where to buy:

Some people use face wash or even organic soaps, totally depends on you. For a more affordable option, try using Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser available at Souq for AED 41, 118 ml because it great for daily use morning and night.

I personally use Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser, AED 105 available at Kiehl’s website.

Try to avoid the exfoliating cleansers with small beads because the skin should NOT be exfoliated every day.

STEP 3: EXFOLIATE

You should only be exfoliating your face twice a week. Do not over exfoliate because that will dry up your skin and make it super flaky!

Method:

2X a Week Only, Recommended at Night (1 time every 3 days)
Place a small amount on your palm and gently massage on your face for a couple of minutes
Rinse with warm water or with the wash cloth.

Where to buy:

You can use any exfoliator like NIVEA which is around AED 17 or DOVE at AED 25 from Carrefour or other supermarkets. Of course, if you prefer you can use an expensive one as well.

I personally use the Bioderma White Moussant Cleanser Scrub, AED 68.

STEP 4: TONER

A lot of people think that toner is used to cleanse the face. Although some toners can do that, the main benefit of the toner is to restore your skin’s pH balance.

Method:

DAILY, Morning and Night
Place a small amount on a cotton pad and apply on your face. You can also put it on a spray bottle and spray it on your face.

Where to buy:

You can use any toner from any supermarket or pharmacy, but if possible, look for one that is Alcohol-free like this one which also has rosewater – Thayer’s Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner for AED 36 at Souq.

I personally use Clinique 2 Clarifying Lotion AED 115 at Sephora.

STEP 5 AND 6: ESSENCE AND SERUM / TREATMENT

Okay so I am putting these two together because most of you will be confused and may interchange them. A lot of you may ask what is the difference between Essence and Serum. Well, after lots of research, here’s my helpful conclusion:

An essence is something you use to improve your skin overall. It is used to maintain hydration and add nutrition to your skin.

A serum on the other hand is used as a treatment to address specific skin problems like age spots, winkles, dark under eyes, acne, etc.

Method:

DAILY, Morning and Night
Apply the essence first by putting a few drops on your fingertips and patting into the skin. Let it sit on your skin for a couple of minutes. Try the Caudalie Brightening Essence for AED 168 for 150 ml at Sephora.
Follow by applying the serum as directed on the product label. I like the Caudalie Beauty Elixir to tighten the pores available for 84 AED for 30 ml at Sephora.
After the essence and serum, this is also the stage where you place any other skin care treatments you may need. For example, with my dark under eyes and uneven skin tone I used these two products to address these issues. They deliver in UAE.

Where to buy:

WARNING!!! These are a bit more expensive than the rest of the products.

You can purchase essences and serums online at bbcreamgirl or shopbeautykoreadubai OR if you don’t like online shopping you can go to SEPHORA or THE FACE SHOP which is in major malls like Bujuman, Dubai Mall, Al Ghurair, and Ibn Battuta Mall.

Essences are rarer to find so it’s better to find one in the links or stores I mentioned above. Serums are more available and even pharmacies and supermarkets in UAE already have them.

STEP 7: SHEET MASK

This is a step that is also to be done only 2X a week. I recommend doing it on the same day you have exfoliated to give your skin that extra moisture boost.

Method:

2X a Week Only, Recommended at Night (1 time every 3 days)
Place mask on face for 10-15 minutes
Remove mask and DO NOT WIPE OFF extra moisture, rather, let it sit and get absorbed on your skin.

Where to buy:

Sheet mask are available in Sephora but are little bit pricey at AED 25 per piece. The good news is you can now buy a Korean sheet mask at ETUDE HOUSE in Dubai mall for only AED 10 so that’s really economical and an investment of AED 20 a week is not something that will break your bank.

This is my Sheet Mask 10 Dirham Beauty Hack Review.

STEP 8: EYE CREAM

Ladies! This is very important. Eye cream is essential because the skin in the eye area is sensitive so it’s best to keep it always moisturized to avoid fine lines. Once you hit your mid-20’s, it’s time to start putting on eye cream!

Method:

DAILY, Morning and Night
Using your fingertips, apply a small amount on your eye area using a small, patting motion. Do not drag or press hard on your skin.

Where to buy:

There are lots of eye creams available in UAE. Again depending on your budget, you can go affordable using drugstore products like NIVEA (AED 52) or HIMALAYA (AED 32) because after all, it’s better than not putting anything at all!

However, if you need to invest on something in all these list of products, a good eye cream is probably your best investment, together with serums and sunscreen. Eye creams can go as high as AED700 Believe it or not! But something like the Organic Dr. Hauschka Daily Hydrating Eye Cream for AED 143 would be a good choice.

I personally use the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream AED 230 available in Dubai Mall store.

STEP 9: MOISTURIZER

Aha! I’m sure this is something you are familiar with. I bet some of you go straight to moisturizer after toning the face. Sadly, no this is not the 3^rd step but the 9^th step!

Method:

DAILY, Morning and Night
Apply a small amount on palm and apply on face in gentle patting, sweeping motion.

Where to buy:

Again, depending on your budget you can go economical or high end. For budget friendly choice the NIVEA Soft Moisturizing Cream for AED 11.30 can be bought from Carrefour or many local grocery stores.

If you want to use a moisturizer that celebrities use like maybe Priyanka Chopra, check out Crème De La Mer for a whopping AED 693 for a 30 ml jar at Sephora. To put it in perspective, that’s around 60 bottles of Nivea Soft!

I personally use Charlote Tilbury Magic Cream, AED 400 at Dubai Mall store.

STEP 10: SUN PROTECTION / SLEEPING MASK

Whew! This is the last step of the skin care routine! In the morning always protect your face with sun block and at night put a sleeping mask.

Sleeping masks are different from night creams because they have more active ingredients that will continue nourishing your skin overnight. They are also referred to as sleeping packs. You don’t remove it like the sheet mask, rather you apply It like a night cream on your face and leave it overnight.

Method:

DAILY, Morning and Night
In the morning put sun protection, while at night put a sleeping mask
For sunscreen, the amount of sunscreen to use for your face must be same size as a 1 Dirham coin! Apply on face in patting, small sweeping motion.
For sleeping mask, use as per package directions as there are different types and consistencies.

Where to buy:

Sun Creams:

For sun creams, go with SPF 30-50. With the Dubai sun, the higher the better. For drugstore brands, I personally use Banana Boat (Ultra Protect Faces SPF 50, AED 17-20 for 60-90ML) which you can easily find in most UAE groceries and pharmacies.

Another good brand is Seba Med (SPF 50, AED26 for 75ML) for sensitive skin.

And for high end brands, you can try Clarins (SPF 50, AED 168 for 75 ml).

Sleeping Masks:

SEPHORA has Dr. Jart Dermask Firming Sleeping Mask for AED109, and also the Shiseido Ibuki Sleeping Mask for AED 232. Again, you can go to THE FACE SHOP and ETUDE HOUSE to explore their sleeping masks/ packs.

10-STEP COMMITMENT

This 10-step commitment needs your patience and dedication. As I’ve said, the cost of the products will depend on you, and the result can be different for each person but following this religiously can certainly make a difference.

You can choose to SAVE or SPEND on the products to use, but for some products that are really pricey, you need to just find the most affordable option available.

STEP 1	Oil Cleansing	SAVE
STEP 2	Foam Cleansing	SAVE
STEP 3	Exfoliate	SAVE
STEP 4	Toner	SAVE
STEP 5	Essence	Find the Most Affordable
STEP 6	Serum	SPEND
STEP 7	Face Mask	SAVE
STEP 8	Eye Cream	SPEND
STEP 9	Moisturizer	SAVE
STEP 10	Sun Screen	SPEND
STEP 10	Sleeping Mask	Find the Most Affordable

If you’ve tried the GLASS SKIN beauty routine, let me know how it worked for you!

by farah - July 5, 2018July 18, 2018

Why the Huda Beauty Easy Bake is the Dubai’s Must-Have Summer Beauty Product

The latest makeup creation from Huda Boss herself is the hottest summer beauty product every Dubai gal must get! Inspired by yummy dessert flavors, the Huda Beauty Easy Bake is a luxurious loose powder that aims to give you that airbrushed finish.

Of course, I had to battle the online crowd and add this to my Sephora shopping cart. At 174 AED, you may think that it’s expensive, but once you try it, I’m sure you’ll start to wonder how you’ve ever survived Dubai summer without this!

Here are the reasons why!

Available in 8 shades

Unlike other loose powders that are only available in a few shades, Huda included 8 different shades. This really takes into account the diversity of women’s skin color, especially here in Dubai where you can find more than a hundred nationalities!

Sugar Cookie, Cupcake, Pound Cake, Banana Bread, Blondie, Kunafa, Cinnamon Bun and Coffee Cake are the 8 shades that can suitably complement different skin tones and foundation shades.

I love the inclusion of the Middle Eastern dessert Kunafa but it was a bit too dark for me so I personally got the Banana Bread which has a yellowish, golden undertone.

Matte-finish

If you’ve spent even a few weeks under the Dubai summer sun, then you can understand that sometimes even the most hardworking matte foundation can crack under the extreme heat. Without the use of setting powders, your face can look cakey and even greasy.

The Huda Beauty Easy Bake gives you a matte finish but still has that skin-looking luminous effect, so there’s no fear of looking oilier in the process. Huda understands that when we mean matte, we still want to look natural.

Super Fine Texture

The super fine and creamy texture of the Huda Beauty Easy Bake locks in your foundation or concealer. It is also pigmented so it minimizes the appearance of pores. You will definitely look airbrushed by using this.

Long-Lasting

The Easy Bake is said to last for up to 10 hours, fade proof. Being a Dubai mainstay herself, I’m super sure Huda took into account Dubai’s 45 C degree weather to keep you shine free!

I have tested it for 7 Hours straight outside in the Dubai weather, I can say that it does hold quite well. I even applied it while in the car! After 7 hours, it was a success, still smooth , shine free and no lines or cracks!

Compact Packaging

Unlike other bulky loose powders, the packaging of the Huda Beauty Easy Bake is so compact. The rectangular packaging makes it easier to fit into any makeup case. It is travel friendly so you can have it on the go if ever you need to do make up in the car.

Bake time!

The Huda Beauty Easy Bake is available online on Sephora but stocks are almost out. As of writing only the 3 darkest shades are available for online ordering so you better get your shopping cart ready for the restock!

Meanwhile, I thought it would be fun to include an edible #EasyBake Banana Bread Recipe that you can actually eat and bake yourself!

WARNING: The recipe below is designed for actual baking and eating, not for your face!

Farah’s Easy Bake Banana Bread Recipe

4 Super ripe bananas (almost black)

1 cup sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp cinnamon powder

½ tsp salt

1 tsp baking soda

3 eggs

½ cup vegetable oil

¼ cup water

Mash the bananas and set aside.

Combine the sugar, flour, cinnamon, salt and baking soda in a bowl.

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add the vegetable oil, and water. Slowly combine the flour mixture and the mashed bananas and mix well.

Place on a bread loaf pan and bake on a preheated oven (190 degrees Celsius) for 30-40 minutes or until toothpick comes clean in the middle.

EAT AND ENJOY!

by farah - June 18, 2018June 18, 2018

Dubai Ladies, Here’s Every Makeup Look to Suit Your Summer Travel

In This Blog: Free Downloadable Product List for Every Look!

Summer is here and a lot of Dubai residents are planning their vacation trips to escape the desert heat. With social media like Instagram and Facebook, it’s so much more essential to look our best when taking that #travelselfie! After all, great photographs create beautiful, unforgettable memories.

So Dubai ladies, for this week’s blog, I thought to share some makeup look suggestions depending on your travel itinerary! Each recommended look comes with a FREE downloadable PDF shopping list so you will not second-guess what to bring and you don’t need to bring a lot of products.

If still in doubt, don’t worry because I do offer my personalized Dubai Beauty Shopping Tour where I can help you shop for products that will suit you best and not waste time & money.

City Sightseeing Tours

If you’re planning to go on a city sightseeing tour like Istanbul, Paris, or Kuala Lumpur…then I recommend going with an elegant, sophisticated look to match the metropolis vibe.

Keep your look stylish and uncomplicated with flawless skin makeup and a classy red lip. Use a heavy duty concealer and foundation to keep your face impeccable. I recommend using a long-lasting liquid lipstick, like the Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint, so you wouldn’t need to worry about retouching, and just enjoy the sights.

To achieve this look, download here.

Beach Getaway

Going on a tropical beach vacation is one of the favorites of Dubai residents. I understand that when you are at the beach, you can feel confused about what type of makeup look to do. It can be inconvenient to bring a lot of makeup products and do a full face makeup but still, you don’t want to look like a drowned rat in your beach photos.

One lovely makeup look I recommend is going for the sun-kissed summer glow by using shimmer. You can achieve this with my Coral Obsessions look which you can download here . I love it coz this look reminds me of pink and orange beach sunsets!

The great thing about this is I used one product, the Huda Beauty Coral Obsessions mini-palette for my eyes as eyeshadow, on my cheeks as highlighter and on my lips as added shimmer. This can save you a lot of space in your travel case, and also help you achieve that sunset-inspired look.

Nature Trippin’

If you’re going on a mountain hike or a safari, I recommend going for a more natural, classic glow like this look which you can download here.

My favorite part of this look is the Anastasia Beverly Hills So Hollywood Highlighter which can perfectly glimmer in the outdoors sun! The look itself is very simple but for sure, you will get that natural glow in your photos.

Cruise Away

Planning to spend your vacation onboard a cruise ship? This is also a great travel option especially for a lot of older couples who prefer the laid-back relaxation this kind of trip offers.

Cruise ships often offers different variety of activities. You can lounge by the pool, enjoy the chic restaurants and entertainment onboard, or go on walking tours in the island stopovers. What I recommend then is going for a versatile look that can work for different occasions like this Gemstone Obsessions makeup look.

I chose a nude lip color to complement the emerald eye shadow which kept the look unique but still tasteful. You can find the product list download here.

Family Fun

Family vacations with the little ones are always enjoyable! The travel usually involves theme parks like Disneyland, carnivals, or children parks.

For going to these places, let out the kid inside of you by experimenting with color. Don’t worry, using colorful makeup can work without making you look like a confused unicorn.

There is a way to still look playful yet mature. In this look you can download here, you will see how I combined together VERY colorful products like the Etude House Wonder Fun Park, Play 101 sticks and the Fenty Beauty Trophy Wife highlighter.

Before You Board!

Travelling is such a fun experience especially when you’re with your loved ones. Looking your best should not add to your worries so make sure you pre-plan the makeup products you need to bring and learn how to apply your own makeup efficiently. The good news is, I do offer exclusive makeup lessons to my VIP followers. The lessons include learning how to smartly use products and apply makeup competently so the next time you’re on your trip, you will look flawless and amazing! CONTACT ME to learn more about how you can partake in the VIP MAKEUP COURSE!

And if YOU ARE TRAVELING to Dubai very soon and need a personal consultation session , I can help you find the best deals on makeup and beauty products in the city with my Dubai Beauty Shopping Tour! No need to waste precious vacation time and money because I will make it so much easier for you!

Safe & Lovely travels!

by farah - May 30, 2018May 30, 2018

This is the Ultimate Beauty Guide for Every Dubai Bride … Plus Free PDF Download Bridal Beauty Wedding Day Survival Kit

Every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day. There are a lot of beauty advice and beauty treatments that it can become confusing. What do you really need? What will really make a difference? Read on below for my personal tips!

The Ultimate Bridal Beauty Guide for Dubai Weddings

1. Facial Skin Care Routine

You have to start a disciplined facial skin routine ideally 6 months before the wedding, or at least 3 months if you don’t have much time. If you have less time, then start right now!

The formula is simple: Exfoliate once a week, then follow a cleanse, tone, treat, and moisturize twice a day! MOST IMPORTANT is to always put sunblock on your face, neck and hands before going out and when going wedding shopping to protect your skin from sun damage.

The products do not need to be expensive as long as you are dedicated in following a routine. Just look how these affordable two products SHOCKINGLY changed my skin in just 90 days.

2. Professional Beauty Treatments

If you have the budget for lasers, microdermabrasion and chemical peels, then do this 3-6 months before the wedding date because you do not want to risk redness or inflammation caused by these treatments. Schedule a hydrating, cleansing, mild facial one week before the wedding to get rid of the last-minute blackheads and get that glow

3. Hair Care

Oil your hair at least once a week to get it soft and smooth. Avoid trying a new haircut and treatment that may spell disaster!

If you are coloring your hair, do it two months prior, and make sure to schedule a roots appointment one week before the wedding.

You can also do your own DIY Protein treatment at home with this super simple Avocado Protein Hair Mask with Oil

4. Hair Removal

Depending on the method you want to remove your hair, you will need to follow a different timeline. Professional laser hair removal for example needs you to start consulting 2-3 months before the wedding date.

If you are going for waxing, the last wax session has to be at least 4 days before the wedding date. Why? This leaves enough time for your skin to calm down so you don’t have last minute redness, but at the same time, hair will not regrow.

I strongly don’t recommend shaving for this particular occasion as you may get regrowth in 24 hours and will be too much hassle.

5. Dental Care

Teeth whitening is one good option to get a perfect smile but do it one month prior to the big day so your teeth can look natural and not TOO white.

For veneers or other more complex treatments, this can be done 3 months before so you’re not stressed on time.

6. Makeup Artist and Hairstylist

Schedule this at least 3 months before the wedding or earlier to make sure you reserve your date! I encounter lot of brides who may be disappointed because I am already booked on their preferred date. So, if you already have a wedding date, MESSAGE ME now so I can pencil you into my calendar!

7. Mani and Pedi

You don’t want your nails to chip even before your big day. My personal recommendation is doing this 2 days before the wedding, not earlier than that. Also get a matching polish in case of emergency on your wedding day.

It is also useful to learn how to maintain your nails as you won’t have enough time post-wedding.

8. Massage and Body Treatments

You want to be relaxed and super chill on your wedding day so it is a good idea to schedule this 1-2 days before. If you are staying in a hotel, schedule this with the hotel’s spa a day before for a super lovely experience.

If budget is an issue, don’t worry you can also feel super relaxed with my recommended 10-dirham beauty hack! You can also exfoliate you lips the day before with this super easy DIY scrub!

9. Have Lots of Water and Sleep

If you are the type who does not sleep the required 7-8 hours and drink at least 8 glasses of H20, then better start now. Believe me, this simple change will make so much difference to your skin and hair!

10. Diet and Exercise

I am not a believer of fad diets, my advice is if you need to lose weight, just cut down on eating carbs like sugar, rice, bread, and pasta. Also cut down on desserts, oily food and junk, processed food. If you stick to a healthy vegetable and protein diet plus 1 hour of cardio for at least three months… you will surely lose that muffin top. (And your skin will look so much better!)

And BONUS tip…Smile!

A smile can do wonders for your face. Just enjoy your experience and chill! Do not stress out and you will automatically radiate a positive glow and aura!

Best wishes on your wedding and I really hope I can be part of it! Message me here to chat!

Oh, and don’t forget to DOWNLOAD my Bridal Beauty Wedding Day Survival Kit

by farah - May 28, 2018May 28, 2018

Dubai Wedding Gift Ideas for the Bride and What Not to Give Especially Number 7

Attending a Dubai Wedding is so much different than attending a wedding in your native city. If the couple are expats and living in the UAE or having a destination wedding, they have a much different lifestyle than just your relative living in the next street. When there is no wedding registry, it becomes a challenge to think of a special gift the couple will appreciate.

All gifts given with thoughtfulness and love will be appreciated but what gifts are not ideal so your money will not be wasted, and what gift will the bride or couple love? Read on!

Here are my “What NOT to give” and alternative Dubai Wedding Gift Ideas!

NUMBER 1

What not to give: Kitchen and Home Appliances

Kitchen and home appliances like oven toasters, flat irons and electric kettles are some of the most common wedding gifts received by couples. These are probably appreciated and considered as grand gifts in the 1980’s when these gadgets were first invented. However, in 2018, these are very common and chances are, the family of the bride or groom already bought these for them. Also for destination weddings, these are very heavy to carry in the luggage.

What to give instead: Travel Accessories

Dubai couples travel at least once or twice a year. Travel is part of their lifestyle already. This is why travel gadgets and accessories will be very practical and useful for the bride who usually does the packing! Instead of going through the usual wedding home section, check the travel section of your department store and find cool gift ideas like travel accessories, luggage accessories, RFID items, packing organizers, universal adapters and more!

NUMBER 2

What not to give: Bulky Home Decors

Home decorations are another favorite item given by guests to the couple. The old tradition is “the bigger the better!”. However, for Dubai weddings or couples based abroad in particular, please avoid giving these bulky items such as huge crystal flower vases, heavy wooden carvings or massive art pieces. The reality is that most couple living in Dubai usually rent houses and see themselves moving after a few years. This means that these bulky house items may be inconvenient for them.

What to give instead: Consumable favors like candles and soaps

Small consumable wedding favors like great looking candles, scented hand soaps , or essential oils will be appreciated because they are very useful in new homes. They are also not very expensive and a good option for people on a budget.

NUMBER 3

What not to give: Clothes and Shoes

Giving apparel can also be problematic as it might not suit the style and the size of the recipient. It is also a matter of personal taste.

What to give instead: Precious jewelry

I have never received a gold jewelry I did not like. That means that whatever the size, the weight or the design… gold and silver jewelry will always be welcome gift. If you are unsure of the design, gold coins will also be a sophisticated choice.

NUMBER 4

What not to give: Food

Food items like chocolates, gourmet products or bottles of wine may be an ideal housewarming gift, but for Dubai weddings, it is better to stay away from these. Because wedding events can be too busy, it takes days or even weeks for couples to open their gifts. Food items have the tendency to expire or go bad especially with the challenging Dubai weather. Even with items that have long expiration dates like biscuits or preserves in bottle jars, you would still have to worry if they are transported well so when the couple receives it, they are still intact and not broken or crushed.

What to give instead: Dinner Reservations or Grocery gift cards

Instead of giving them expensive gourmet food baskets, why not book them a pre-paid dinner or brunch for two? Because of the stressful work schedules in UAE, I’m pretty sure the couple will enjoy a date out together. Make sure the validity is one year and you have prepaid the amount so there are no embarrassing confusions. Also, please avoid 2 for 1 vouchers as they are not very tasteful to gift, instead, try to book in a concierge service or directly from the hotel.

If your budget is not that high and you are not very close to the couple, giving a grocery or mall gift card will be appreciated.

NUMBER 5

What not to give: Beddings and bath towels

Bed linens are very tricky because there’s always the question if they are the correct size or if they fit the style of the bedroom. While bath towels are also bulky and not very exciting. Most of all, these are very generic and impersonal.

What to give instead: Personalized Experiences

Instead of giving generic gifts, why not exert an extra effort and find out the likes and dislikes of the bride and her groom. If she likes to pamper herself, treat her to a special treatment in a nice nail salon or spa. If they love the outdoors, how about desert adventures they can enjoy, or if they are movie buffs, then book them an ultra-luxe platinum movie experience. Make sure that there is a one year validity for these bookings.

NUMBER 6

What not to give: Perfume and Cosmetics

Ladies especially bridesmaids love to gift the bride with perfume and cosmetics. I have been guilty of doing this myself in some occasions, but I discovered that most women end up not using these types of gift given to them because of many reasons like the perfume has a scent they do not like, and the makeup choice do not suit their coloring. It then becomes such a waste because these products are not cheap at all and what you might think is the perfect gift for the bride ends up not being used!

What to give instead: One-on-One Makeup Workshop for the Bride

After doing a lot of bridal makeup, I usually have my brides telling me that how they wish they can look so beautiful every day and that they know how to apply correct makeup techniques. This is the reason why I started offering One-on-One Self-Makeup Workshops. This comprehensive course that I personally teach instructs ladies how to correctly apply makeup and the best products that will suit them.

This is a great idea for bridesmaids to give this gift to brides because they are giving them the gift of learning. Message me here to know more about this amazing gift option!

NUMBER 7

What not to give: Weight loss items

However creative you think it is, it is definitely not a good idea to give weight loss items like exercise devices or weight loss tea. It is like telling the bride that she needs to lose weight! This is an absolute no-no and should never be considered at all!

What to give instead: Cash

If all else fails, and you did not have the time to buy a gift, CASH will be very much appreciated! Don’t worry, we are in 2018 and CASH IS PERFECTLY ACCEPTABLE.

by farah - May 23, 2018May 22, 2018

Top Things A Dubai Bride Forgets On Her Wedding Day

In my last post, I discussed the top essential items for every Dubai bride, but this week what I will share are the stuff that brides usually forgets.

As a professional makeup artist and hairstylist, I have been witness to a lot of Dubai and UAE weddings. Being very close to the bride during the event, I have seen every imaginable disaster a bride may encounter especially the things they usually forget.

So, I will make it so much easier if YOU are a bride because this is a very comprehensive list of what you should not forget.

PLUS BONUS: Read the post and see below for FREE PDF DOWNLOAD of my “Bride’s Ultimate Packing List – What NOT to forget on your wedding day! “

BEAUTY

Makeup Remover

This is very important because you need a good quality makeup remover to make sure your face is clean and free of product before you sleep. Here are my recommended best makeup removers available in the UAE.

Skincare Kit including sunscreen
Makeup Kit

Do not forget skincare kit including toner, moisturizer and serums. Also, even if you are hiring a makeup artist, bring your daily makeup kit of your own that you can use the following day.

Comb

If you are staying in a hotel, they have these small combs that cannot even fix your fringe so better to bring your own hair comb or brush. Also ask your makeup artist for the best way to remove your hairstyle after the ceremony.

Perfume

Do not bring the whole bottle of perfume. Put a small amount in a small atomizer or if you have a travel sized one, that’s better. This is especially if you are travelling as airport regulations don’t allow big bottles in carry on luggage.

Matching Nail Polish and Remover

Get a matching color of the nail polish of your manicure just in case there is an accidental chip during the event.

BATH ESSENTIALS

An all-inclusive hotel may have toiletries, but it is advisable to bring your brands especially if you have sensitive skin. Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to also pack extra for your groom! He will appreciate it!

Soap
Hair Products
Dental Kit
Deodorant
Razor
Blow dryer
Bathrobe

CLOTHING

Clothes, Shoes, Undergarments, Sleepwear

Whether you’re staying in a hotel, traveling for your honeymoon or staying in your new house, pack your clothes in advance as you will not have time to come back to the house and worry about this after the wedding. Do not over pack, but make sure you bring different outfits on your different events.

Splurge in extra nice brand-new sleepwear and undergarments. It does not necessarily need to be super expensive or lacy if you’re not comfortable with this. You must choose something with good quality, with soft fabric and something that fits well. Your honeymoon is not the time to wear your brother’s hand me down T-shirts and basketball shorts.

Also bring extra pair of everyday shoes/ sandals for the next day. Believe me, I’ve heard stories of brides who forgot to bring casual shoes and had to go to breakfast in their hotel slippers or wedding shoes!

Swimwear

If the hotel has a pool or Jacuzzi, swimwear will come handy.

Empty Duffel Bags / Garment Bags
Jewelry Travel Bag

Extra bags are always useful. Instead of bulky luggage, opt for foldable duffle bags or garment bags.

SUPER IMPORTANT

These are things that you may always think are obvious, but you may be surprised that a lot of people forget them! Identification cards, passports and travel documents must be kept in a safe place. You can ask your groom to safe keep the documents with you so both your docs are in same place and you can keep in the hotel safe. Credit cards are advisable but make sure to also bring cash. Smaller bills are also great for tipping.

Phone
ID and Passport
Credit Cards
Cash
Hotel Reservations
Vendor Contracts
Travel Documents
Camera and Charger
Phone Chargers
USB Drive
Ziploc Bags

JUST IN CASE

These are some items you should consider bringing in case of emergencies. Most are self explanatory, but I want to highlight the need to bring a snack like an energy bar or chocolate bar. Some brides forget to eat and may feel super hungry and may need an energy boost! It is not a very healthy choice but it is much easier to eat for the bride than fruit or a sandwich that may be messy and stain your dress.

Paracetamol / Aspirin
Energy Bar/ Chocolate Bar
Band-Aids
Mini- Sewing Kit with Extra Buttons
Mints
Tissues, Cotton Buds, Wet Towels

I know there is so much to think of if you are a bride, so you need to be extra relaxed and confident on your wedding day. Do not let the stress get to you but if you cannot avoid it, don’t worry, that is why I’m here! As an expert in wedding makeup and hair, I am here to make sure you still look flawless and naturally radiant.

Message me now and let’s chat about your big day!

Oh, and by the way, Here’s your BONUS:

DOWNLOAD PDF Bride’s Ultimate Packing List – What NOT to forget on your wedding day!

by farah - May 21, 2018May 21, 2018

10 Wedding Essentials for Every Dubai Bride

After getting engaged, it is very easy to get overwhelmed with all the wedding preparations. The planning of the wedding usually falls on the bride so even if she hires a wedding coordinator, it is indeed a very huge task.

If you are a soon to be bride, there are many things to plan for: the wedding venues, guest list, wedding rings, food and beverage, cake, flowers, photographers, video team, transportation and so much more. Because of all these, you might forget the most important part of the wedding which is YOURSELF.

So let me make it easier and share with you a list of 10 Wedding Essentials for Every Dubai Bride

1.The Wedding Dress

Every culture has a different tradition on the type of dress to wear but whatever style you choose, my advice is to keep it as a timeless, classic piece and make sure it fits you well.

In choosing a design, reflect if ten or twenty years from now, the dress will still look beautiful and not just because it is trendy or a popular celebrity wore it. One great example is the minimalistic Givenchy dress Prince Harry’s new bride, Hollywood actress Meghan Markle wore at her wedding. It is very reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn and very classy.

For South Asian brides, choose colors and designs suitable to your skin tone and body type. Even if you have the most expensive fabric and the most popular designer, if the dress does not fit you well, it will not look good in the photos.

2. Shoes

After choosing the perfect dress, you have to find the perfect shoes. Do not buy the shoes before buying the dress because that will only create a lot of shopping headaches for you.Again, go for the classic designs and choose a heel not less than two inches. The added height will certainly make you look more statuesque in pictures. However, do not force to walk on 5 inch heels unless you are used to these type of shoes. You will only look uncomfortable and your feet will not thank you at all.

Also consider the venue, like if you are having a wedding on the sandy beach, consider a square heel rather than a pointed heel so you don’t sink on the sand.

A great tip is for you to try to find a comfortable pair of flat shoes or slippers that you can change into during the party.

3. Accessories

Accessories will include your veil, head piece and jewelry. Whether you have heirloom jewelry from your family or if you need to buy new pieces, you need to make sure to try these accessories prior to the wedding day.

For Arab and South Asian brides, these headpieces and jewelry can be very heavy so you need to get used to the weight and adjust as required.

4. Makeup Artist and Hairstylist

After you wedding outfit, I believe that this is the most important element a bride should consider on her wedding day. I do understand that brides want to get value and discounts because a wedding can be expensive, however, I believe that spending for a professional makeup artist and hairstylist is so important. I listed down the reasons here on why a Dubai bride should hire one.

On your wedding day, all eyes are on YOU so as a professional artist I can help you make sure that your hair and makeup are flawless and exquisite on your big day.

5. Lingerie and Hosiery

A lot of brides get too much preoccupied with their wedding dress that they forget about the appropriate undergarments to wear. This is very important because there are certain fabrics and dress styles that will not look good without the correct type of undergarments. You do not want straps or seams to show on your wedding so make sure you spend time to shop for the correct lingerie.

6. Skincare Routine

To have amazing, beautiful skin on your wedding day, make sure to start your routine at the very least 3 months before the big day, or longer if you can. This includes facial treatments, laser hair removal, chemical peels, whitening treatments, among others.

NEVER avail a treatment very close to your wedding day because these treatments and medicines can cause redness , peeling or drying effect as your skin still adjust to their effectiveness. Doing these very close to your wedding day can be risky. Make sure you allot enough time.

Weeks before the wedding, make sure you (and your groom) get enough sleep and drink lots of water so you will look fresh and hydrated.

7. Manicure and Pedicure

Schedule a professional manicure and pedicure at least 1-2 days before your wedding. Avoid scheduling this on the same day so it will not add to the schedule and you will not be worrying about your nail polish not drying on time.

8. Bridal Purse with Emergency items

Many, many years ago before the invention of smartphones and SnapChat, brides walk down the aisle with only their flowers and nothing else. However, the modern bride has to think in advance where she should keep her phone and wallet during the party. Some brides leave these at the hotel room but for brides who cannot be parted with their gadgets, a small matching purse can be useful.

During the ceremony, assign one of your bridesmaids to hold this for you and only retrieve it at the party. The purse should be of the same colour theme as your dress. This is also extra useful especially if you have wedding guests who give you cash gifts, cheques or gift cards during the party.

What to put inside: Smartphone, Credit Card/Cash for emergencies, Paracetamol for headaches, tissues, retouch kit, mints and hand sanitizer.

9. Overnight/Honeymoon Bag

Because of all the wedding craziness, some brides forget that they are not coming home to their own house after the wedding. If you’re staying in a hotel for the night, prepare an overnight bag or if you are going straight to your honeymoon then pack your travel luggage in advance so you are not stressing about it after the wedding. Make sure to plan ahead what to put inside. OR BETTER YET, WATCH OUT FOR MY NEXT POST ON THE FREE PACKING LIST!

10. Extra, empty garment bags, shopping bags, or luggage.

Don’t you ever wonder why your clothes and shoes do not seem to fit your bags and luggage after you’ve already used them? Don’t forget to bring bags where you can comfortably store your wedding dress and shoes. Bring your jewelry bag to store your jewelry and don’t forget to put in the hotel safe. Empty bags and luggage will also be useful to store wedding gifts and favors you may receive during the wedding party.

Ask a family member to keep these for you if you’re traveling immediately after the wedding.

Having been in countless of weddings, I believe that the most relaxed brides are those who are prepared and who are confident during the wedding day. Let me help you avoid that stress by crafting a bridal look that will make your Dubai wedding super memorable. Don’t hesitate to ask me some questions about your dream makeup look. Message me today and let’s chat!

by farah - May 14, 2018May 14, 2018

Best Dubai Photographer Approved Tips to Make You Look Beautiful in Your Wedding Photos

Having wonderful wedding photographs is very important for your Dubai wedding because they are the visual reminder of this beautiful day for years to come. After working in a lot of weddings and photographers, here are some tips I gathered from my own observation and professional photographers so you can look amazing in your wedding photos.

1. Try and test your outfit for comfort

Make sure to that your dress fits well, that you can walk properly in your shoes and that you try on any accessories beforehand.

For South Asian brides, make sure you try on the jewelry because earring, bangles, matha patti (headpieces) and other accessories can be really heavy so you have to get used to the feel of wearing them. This way you can make necessary adjustments so there will be no unwanted surprises.If you look uncomfortable during your wedding day because of your outfit, even the tiny stress will show on camera.

Another BONUS Tip: Keep an extra pair of flip flops or flat slippers to rest your tired feet. Don’t worry it won’t show under your dress.

2. Relax but don’t slouch

Just relax to avoid looking stiff in the photos.Do not worry too much about posing correctly or what angle you should face the camera to look better. Relax your shoulders, your face, and your hands. However, you should also be aware that you’re not slouching your back. Weeks prior to the wedding, practice having your back straight so the habit comes naturally on the big day.

3. Don’t force your smile, laugh out loud instead

Your wedding day can be long and stressful so I understand that even if people around you say “smile naturally”, it is not always easy to smile endlessly the entire day.

One great tip from a friend who work on TV is that instead of forcing a smile, try laughing out loud for a few seconds even if you’re not laughing at anything. It might sound ridiculous but it will feel really crazy that you will start genuinely laughing at yourself for real! That will instantly bring a different energy to your face so that when you try smiling again for the camera, there will definitely be a different sparkle in your eyes.

4. Enjoy every single moment

The best wedding photos are the candid, unguarded moments captured by the photographer. This can only be effective if you immerse yourself in the moment and feel the genuine range of emotions you feel without being overtly conscious.

Even when the photographer asks you to pose by the beach for example, instead of just standing and posing, why don’t you really take pleasure in walking hand in hand with the love of your life? This way when you look back at the photo, it will not be about how hot the weather is or how difficult it was to pose, rather, it will be a memory of that lovely afternoon at the beach with your groom. Remember, the best photos hold special memories that brings you back to those little moments that makes up your big day!

5. Make sure your makeup and hair are flawless

Professional makeup artists and expert hairstylists are the best friends of wedding photographers. Not only do we make their jobs much easier, but we also help them to just focus on getting the great shots instead of worrying about a poorly styled hair or wrong skin makeup.

It is then highly advisable to hire a tried and tested professional who has considerable experience in what makeup works best in wedding photos. A plus point is having an artist who has worked with several wedding photographers so she is familiar with the photography process and schedule.

As a professional makeup artist and hairstylist, I make sure I work closely with my brides and prior to the wedding I share with them my personal beauty tips so they will look extra beautiful on their wedding day photos.

My top tips would be for the bride (and groom) to have a good night’s sleep because if you are properly rested, this will show on your face and will be up for more fun shots.
Another beauty hack is making sure you exfoliate your lips by gentle scrubbing to get that perfect smile!

To recap all these tips:

1. Be comfortable in your wedding outfit, shoes and accessories by trying them on and testing.

2. Relax your face and body but be aware not to slouch.

3. Don’t force yourself to smile, try laughing loudly!

4. Enjoy every single moment.

5. Make sure you hire a professional for flawless makeup and hair, who will share your journey with you.

By the way, here are some of great Dubai Wedding Photographers. I am NOT sponsored or affiliated with these companies and just mentioning them as I have worked with them previously.

NAIMAZ FILM PHOTO

POOJA STUDIO DUBAI

BERNIE AND BINDI

Having worked with the best wedding photographers in Dubai, I can help you by creating makeup and hairstyle looks that will definitely look amazing in photos and in person! Why don’t you send me a message and we can chat about your questions!

by farah - April 16, 2018April 16, 2018

I Tried This 10 Dirham Beauty Hack and This Is What Happened!

I have always been a skincare freak so I love trying out products that promise to improve the skin. However, not all skincare trends are wallet-friendly, especially if you’re living in Dubai. That’s why I was so overjoyed when Korean beauty brand Etude House opened in Dubai Mall because they offer one of my favorite skincare quick fix: the sheet mask! And yes, each pack only costs 10 dirhams!

I immediately bought 5 variants and although each sheet mask has a unique scent and serums, they all deliver the similar skin hydrating effect.

Moistfull Collagen, Skin Firming Collagen, Aloe Vera Soothing Moisture, Damask Rose Fresh Moisture, Pomegranate Revitalizing Radiance Etude House Sheet Mask Dubai — Moistfull Collagen, Skin Firming Collagen, Aloe Vera Soothing Moisture, Damask Rose Fresh Moisture, Pomegranate Revitalizing Radiance.

Here are the things I noticed after 15 minutes of putting on the Etude House sheet mask.

Refreshed, Relaxed Feeling

Here in the UAE, we work really long hours and after battling the rush hour traffic, we barely have time for ourselves. That’s why I loved putting on the Etude House Aloe Vera sheet mask because it made me feel that I was actually in a spa.

Super Plump and Soft Skin Texture

The UAE’s desert weather has finally met its match with these sheet masks. Dry skin no more! My skin felt really soft and plump after putting on a mask.

Etude House Sheet Mask Dubai — Sheet Masks are very easy to use. Just place a sheet on your freshly cleansed & toned face, leave it for 15 minutes, peel it off and done! No need to wash off your face! The excess serums and essences are meant to be left and absorbed by your skin.

Stress-Free Skin

Aside from dry skin, stress, dust and pollution can really take their toll on our faces making us look haggard. I loved using the Etude House Collagen Sheet Mask for that skin firming effect. It’s incredible how only 15 minutes can drastically wipe away the stress from my face.

Perfect Skin Prep for Makeup

Instead of using a moisturizer or beauty oils, I used the Damask Rose Sheet Mask to prime my face before I put on foundation. It’s a wonderful trick that will make your skin super smooth and will make makeup glide flawlessly on your face.

Glowing Radiance

Our very busy lifestyles can make it difficult to have regular facial appointments, not to mention that facials in Dubai are really expensive. So, can you imagine my happiness when I realized I can have this radiant glow for just 10 AED? Try it to believe it!