Staying Moisturised in the Emirates By UMI

 

The harsh climate of the UAE can have a detrimental effect on the body, particularly for those still adjusting to the furnace-like weather that have yet to establish strategies for coping with the heat. Managing moisture both internally and externally is important for optimal health, and is key in ensuring survival in this beautiful, but moisture-sapping, climate.

Hydration tops the list for maintaining internal moisture balance, as water is essential for healthy body function, and carrying oxygen and nutrients to the body’s cells, as well as flushing toxins from the system to prevent pathogens from accumulating and causing damage. Consistent intake of water is important to avoid the effects of dehydration, especially in the hottest months when the heat can quickly drain moisture from the body.

In an effort to avoid overheating, the body will cool itself through evaporation (sweating only being possible if enough fluids have been consumed for the body can draw on). Failing to properly hydrate can lead to the body redistributing its resources in order to maintain essential functions, which can result in dizziness, fainting, and in extreme cases, death. Feeling thirsty is an early warning sign that the body is dehydrated, therefore responding to this cue is important. Along with drinking plenty of H2O, loading up on hydrating foods such as fruits and vegetables can contribute to improved moisture balance.

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As our body’s outer covering, our skin is forced to endure the daily challenges of heat, dust and sun, as well as general wear and tear. In addition, switching between extreme outdoor temperatures and air-conditioned spaces puts our skin under continual assault from the elements. The skin is the body’s largest organ and serves a variety of functions, from regulating temperature and producing Vitamin D, to ensuring a barrier that captures surface bacteria and toxins. The skin is essential to good health, therefore it is important to look after it through practicing good skin care and maintaining moisture balance.

Moisturising products provide the skin with regular nourishment. Oil-based natural moisturizers are most helpful in arid climates, as they are easily absorbed and help retain more water in the skin's outer layers. Likewise, body lotions that contain a number of beneficial ingredients such as Vitamin E, Aloe Vera, Keratin and Shea Butter are designed to penetrate, replenish and repair the skin, leaving it hydrated and feeling softer.

The effects of hot weather can also be damaging to hair, as the heat depletes the moisture hair needs to retain its defining features. Because hair contributes to overall appearance, it is important to maintain moisture balance, retain growth and counteract the negative effects of the UAE’s harsh sun. Undertaking regular hair treatments and using good quality conditioners play an important role in protecting hair from becoming dry, dull and brittle.

Our lips are a good indicator of hydration, as they quickly become dry or cracked if the body is depleted of moisture. Since our lips don’t have any oil glands of their own and are more prone to irritation than most other skin on the body, extra care should be given to them. Natural moisturisers such as lanolin and cocoa butter soften the skin and should be used in favour of lipstick which will only further add to any dryness. Lip balms that contain a balance of ingredients along with essential oils such as coconut, sunflower or jojoba oil will help maintain moisture balance, and applying a long-lasting gloss will add shine while offering protection against the elements.
 

As you can see, balancing moisture and hydrating the body help us to feel and look our best. As expats, being mindful of our water intake throughout the day and taking additional steps to protect our exterior will go a long way towards making sure that we transition more easily into the arid desert climate.

WebMD recommends drinking 8 ounces of water 8 times a day to stay properly hydrated, but exposure to high temperatures may lead to your body requiring more. In the end, just be sure to drink when you are thirsty and you can't go wrong.
 

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