The secret to a flawless face and perfect makeup application? Primer. Not only does it create a smooth base and extend the life of your makeup, but it can also help mask major skin concerns – from oiliness and fine lines to pimples and dryness. Discover the best primers for your skin type and get ready to look and feel better than ever with this powerful beauty product.

Oily Skin

Budget: L’Oréal Infallible Pore Refining Primer

This pore-refining primer contains oil-absorbing fillers to leave skin grease-free and super smooth. You can also dab it over your makeup to remove excess oils throughout the day.

Infallible Pore Refining Primer, L’Oreal Paris

Blowout: NARS Smooth & Protect Primer

This clever oil-free formula mattifies skin by reducing shine, while mineral powders control the T-zone to ensure skin stays oil-free and fabulous.

Smooth & Protect Primer, NARS

Dry Skin

Budget: Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water

Bursting with revitalising electrolytes to give skin a moisturising boost, this refreshing primer spray hydrates and softens skin all day long. It also comes in a handbag-friendly smaller size.

Photo Finish Primer Water, Smashbox 

Blowout: Marc Jacobs Under(cover) Perfecting Coconut Face Primer

Infused with not one, not two, but five types of coconut, this nutrient-rich primer hydrates skin and forms a natural, vitamin-rich barrier to protect and perfect.

Beauty Under(cover) Perfecting Coconut Face Primer, Marc Jacobs

Ageing Skin

Budget: Natio Ageless Illuminating Primer

Organic rosehip oil and aloe vera mean this primer gives skin a youthful glow and helps turn back time by repairing and nourishing damaged tissue.

Ageless Illuminating Primer, Natio

Blowout: Dr. Barbara Sturm Monika Blunder Anti-Aging Primer

Created by skin guru Dr. Barbara Sturm, this primer packs a serious anti-aging punch thanks to antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and purslane.

Monika Blunder Anti-Aging Primer, Dr. Barbara Sturm

Dull Skin

Budget: NYX Born To Glow Illuminating Primer

Give skin a brightening boost with this illuminating primer. It evens skin tone while providing a sheer, luminous glow to revive dull and dreary complexions.

Born To Glow Light Illuminating Primer, NYX

Blowout: Becca First Light Priming Filter

This one’s infused with mineral-rich spring water, ginger extract, prickly pear flower, and sodium hyaluronate so that lacklustre and dull skin is revived in a flash.

First Light Priming Filter, Becca 

Sensitive Skin

Budget: Physicians Formula Spotlight Illuminating Primer

Free from skin-stressing fragrances and parabens, this hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested primer is enriched with antioxidants to soothe and reduce redness.

Spotlight Illuminating Primer, Physicians Formula

Blowout: Cover FX Calming Primer

Specifically formulated for sensitive skins, this primer calms redness and soothes skin whilst hydrating and firming.

Calming Primer, Cover FX 

Blemish-Prone Skin

Budget: e.l.f. Blemish Control Face Primer

Stop spots in their tracks with this blemish buster, which harnesses the power of vitamin E and tea tree extract to prevent breakouts and treat pimples.

Blemish Control Face Primer, e.l.f.

Blowout: Jouer Anti-Blemish Matte Primer

Working to correct complexions with each use, this powerful primer is formulated with soothing aloe vera and salicylic acid to unblock pores, ease congestion, and treat existing blemishes while preventing new pimples.

Anti-Blemish Matte Primer, Jouer

The ‘clean look’ is taking the beauty world by storm, and it comes as no surprise – it’s the go-to for people who want to enhance their natural appearance. The best part? It takes almost no time to perfect. The Gaggler team has compiled this step-by-step guide to help you achieve your clean, natural makeup look.

Step 1: Start with the Skin

Clean makeup is all about the prep. Your pre-makeup application routine matters tremendously when it comes to creating the best canvas for your clean makeup look. Achieve this by building a simple skincare routine with products compatible with your skin type. First and foremost, search for the right cleanser. If you have particularly sensitive skin, opt for gentle cleansers free of potential irritants such as alcohol. For dry or combination skin, go for a hydrating cleanser that will keep you clean and fresh throughout the day.

Next, find a good moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and ready for makeup application (incidentally, we tested out three options you might like). Last but not least, do not forget to apply sunscreen! This skincare step not only protects your skin from sun damage, but also aids in improving the appearance of blemishes on the skin, giving you a flawless base for your makeup. For added plumpness and dewiness, you can add serums and active ingredients to the mix. Just make sure not to overdo it and research the proper combination that won’t cause unnecessary irritation.

Step 2: Create a Natural-Looking Base

The clean look might mean having to use fewer products than you are typically used to, but creating a natural and glowy base remains a priority in achieving this trendy aesthetic. Start by applying a luminous primer that will keep your skin looking more awake through the day. Then, apply just the right amount of concealer to areas that need a little more love – areas of hyperpigmentation and dark undereye circles. Make sure not to apply too much and take time to properly blend until you get rid of harsh lines.

The next part is using your favourite foundation. For this look, opt for a product with lighter coverage. Remember, the clean look heavily relies on looking as natural as possible, so avoid piling on too much product, starting with your base. The goal is simply to even out the tones and keep it fresh – think glass skin.

Step 3: Opt for Cream Products

There’s no rule that says you can’t make use of your powder products, but reaching for a cream or a gel-based alternative will help keep the skin looking illuminated. The simplest trick to finding the right blush shade is choosing one with the same undertone as your skin. Apply this product by lightly dotting it into the high points and the apples of your cheeks and then blending it out in an upward motion.

If you’re a first-timer in applying cream makeup, you might want to apply and spread the product on the back of your hand instead of directly applying it onto your face, so you can control the amount applied onto the skin before using a brush or a beauty sponge to blend. Top it off with a bronzer or a contour shade for that snatched, lifted look. Again, keep it minimal and blend, blend, blend.

Step 4: Plump Lips Are the Way to Go

Once you’re done with your complexion products, all that’s left is your lip makeup. For this look, apply your favourite moisturising lip balm to prime and hydrate the lips before applying other products. Choose a shade closest to the natural colour of your lips. Then, top it off with a high-shine gloss to add more glow to the overall look. If you want to keep the products to the very minimum, you can opt for a lip balm or lip oil with a slight tint to add colour to the lips with half the preparation time.

Step 5: Don’t Hesitate to Add Some Flair

If we’re talking makeup, the one rule you should know is that there really are no rules! While it’s important to keep the makeup looking as natural as possible, there’s no harm in taking it up a notch. If you want an upgraded look that reflects your style and personality, you can go for colourful eyeliner or add a quick swipe of your favourite shimmer eye shadow on the lids for extra drama.

We all have moments when we don’t feel our best. Maybe you had a bad day at work or didn’t get the result you wanted. When these things happen, it’s easy to start focusing on our outer appearance and how it doesn’t measure up to your expectations. What if I tell you to consider this: instead of trying to change how you look on the outside, you can refocus your mindset by celebrating your inner beauty.

But how specifically can you channel your inner gorgeousness? Start by accepting compliments graciously. Instead of downplaying a compliment or shrugging it off, confidently smile and say, “Thank you!” This helps you see the positive things that others see in you and reinforces your self-worth. 

Another way to increase self-confidence is by practising positive affirmations. These can be short statements like “I am beautiful” or “I am worthy”. Repeating these phrases to yourself daily can help train your brain to focus on the positive and ignore negative self-talk. Finally, don’t be afraid to show your inner beauty to the world! Do whatever makes you feel confident – the more you exude inner beauty, the more others will see it.

Inner beauty is about self-confidence and being empowered. It’s about knowing your worth and being proud of who you are! In a world where beauty is often defined by what’s on the outside, it’s refreshing to read quotes that celebrate the beauty of your inner self. Here, we’ve collected 40 of our favourite quotes to help you appreciate your unique beauty. Whether you’re dealing with insecurities or need a little boost of confidence, they will remind you that true beauty comes from within.

1. “Beauty is how you feel inside, and it reflects in your eyes.” – Sophia Loren
2. “Adornment, what a science! Beauty, what a weapon! Modesty, what elegance!” – Coco Chanel
3. “The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mode, but the true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows. The beauty of a woman grows with the passing years.” – Audrey Hepburn
4. “Beauty is not in the face; beauty is a light in the heart.” – Khalil Gibran
5. “To me, beauty is about being comfortable in your own skin. It’s about knowing and accepting who you are.” – Ellen DeGeneres

6. “People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.” – Elisabeth Kubler-Ross
7. “Beauty is about enhancing what you have. Let yourself shine through.” – Janelle Monae
8. “No matter how plain a woman may be, if truth and honesty are written across her face, she will be beautiful.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
9. “Live quietly in the moment and see the beauty of all before you. The future will take care of itself.” – Paramahansa Yogananda
10. “A woman whose smile is open and whose expression is glad has a kind of beauty no matter what she wears.” – Anne Roiphe

11. “The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair.” – Audrey Hepburn
12. “What you do, the way you think makes you beautiful.” – Scott Westerfeld
13. “I’m convinced that inner beauty radiates from within, making someone even more attractive.” – Ellen DeGeneres
14. “Inner beauty should be the most important part of improving one’s self.” – Priscilla Presley
15. “I think the definition of beauty is somebody who’s comfortable in their own skin and celebrates that they’re unique and different.” – Drew Barrymore

16. “The real sin against life is to abuse and destroy beauty, even one’s own – even more, one’s own, for that has been put in our care, and we are responsible for its preservation.” – Katherine Anne Porter
17. “Outer beauty turns the head, but inner beauty turns the heart.” – Helen J. Russell
18. “Everything that is made beautiful and fair and lovely is made for the eye of one who sees.” – Rumi
19. “True beauty resides within a good heart, not in superficial things like hair, makeup, or clothes.” – Unknown
20. “Inner beauty, too, needs occasionally to be told it is beautiful.” – Robert Brault

21. “The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes because that is the doorway to her heart, the place in which love resides.” – Audrey Hepburn
22. “Beauty is not about having a pretty face. It is about having a pretty mind, a pretty heart, and most importantly a pretty soul.” – Unknown
23. “Beauty shouldn’t be about changing yourself to achieve an ideal or be more socially acceptable. Real beauty, the interesting, truly pleasing kind, is about honoring the beauty within you and without you. It’s about knowing that someone else’s definition of pretty has no hold over you.” – Golda Poretsky
24. “Beauty lies not in a flawless complexion but in the stories that are told by each transitioning line on a woman’s face.” – Alyscia Cunningham
25. “To me, beauty is natural beauty. If you’re naturally yourself, you’re beautiful.” – Young MA

26. “Natural beauty really entices men. They will tell you this time and time again, and studies consistently prove it.” – Helen Fisher
27. “To experience sublime natural beauty is to confront the total inadequacy of language to describe what you see. Words cannot convey the scale of a view that is so stunning it is felt.” – Eleanor Catton
28. “Beauty is not something you buy; instead, beauty is what lies within.” – Byron Pulsifer
29. “I love natural beauty, and I think it’s your best look, but I think makeup as an artist is so transformative.” – Marina and the Diamonds
30. “Being natural is incredibly empowering for women because it’s just who you are. You’re embracing all the beautiful things about you from your head to your toes. Because when you mask so much of your natural beauty, people don’t get to see that.” – Rozonda Thomas

31. “Beauty is the illumination of your soul.” – John O’Donohue
32. “Outer beauty attracts, but inner beauty captivates.” – Kate Angell
33. “A pure heart is superlatively rare and even more attractive.” – J. S. B. Morse
34. “Inner beauty, too, needs occasionally to be told it is beautiful.” – Robert Brault
35. “We see the beauty within and cannot say no.” – Dave Eggers

36. “True beauty is when someone radiates that they like themselves.” – Aimee Mullins
37. “Our hearts are drunk with a beauty our eyes could never see.” – George W. Russell
38. “Beauty lives with kindness.” – William Shakespeare
39. “Beauty is not something you buy; instead, beauty is what lies within.” – Byron Pulsifer
40. “Beauty is power; a smile is its sword.” – John Ray

Is there any better way to gear up for Eid than adorning yourself with some intricately applied henna stains? Hint: no. Here, we share our top 10 picks of the best henna salons in Dubai. 

Grand Flora Spa

If you’re opting for traditional Emirati henna, then Grand Flora Spa is the best pick. With six branches around Dubai, it specialises in Arabic designs. The salon doesn’t limit its henna services to the hands and feet alone – you can have it applied anywhere on the body. It also offers henna services to all kinds of events and provides home services as well. Applied by its pool of highly experienced designers, the henna art here comes highly recommended. 

Multiple locations across Dubai, 800 FLORA, https://www.grandfloragroup.com/

Dubai Henna

Dubai Henna offers a unique mix of services and a shop where you can buy its henna products. The henna services come in two packages: standard and VIP. You can claim a free gift with the VIP package, which includes a handmade henna crafted souvenir. Its product portfolio features different types of henna cones, henna accessories, and DIY henna kits categorised according to the areas of application. Dubai Henna’s menu spans services across bridal, casual, party, prenatal belly henna, and even henna art. 

HDS Business Centre, Cluster M, JLT, 056 515 9111, https://www.dubaihenna.com/

Al Marasim Ladies Salon 

This salon offers some of the best henna services in Dubai. Renowned for its unique range of henna designs – from traditional ones that stay true to Emirati roots to contemporary designs – you’re sure to be spoilt for choice. Of course, you can also get your henna design customised any way you want. And considering Al Marsim has been in business for over 20 years in the UAE, you can be assured that all its henna products are of premium quality, safe, and free from chemicals. 

Villa 1043, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 2, Jumeirah, 050 186 6286, https://www.almarasim.ae

Heritage For Henna

If you’re looking for a henna salon that is deeply rooted in tradition, then Heritage For Henna is the place for you. It makes sure all its services stick to the local traditions of henna while promising an efficient and fast application process. Done by experts, all its designs are unique and follow traditional techniques. Its standout feature, meanwhile, is that it offers training services to applicants as well. Referred to as “Henna Majlis”, the salon has 28 tents across the country. 

531, SME Business Village, Deira, Near Clock Tower, 04 420 1178, http://heritageforhenna.com/

Luxury Henna Salon

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Luxury Henna Salon at Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort has taken henna art to new heights. Its henna is made from powdered henna leaves, lemon juice, sugar, and secret essential oils. The henna is made fresh – only after the confirmation of an appointment – with the salon also catering to clients with sensitive and allergy-prone skin. And with a wide variety of henna services like Sudan henna, Mughlai henna, and Moroccan henna, the salon is well-reputed among Emiratis. It covers all events ranging from Eid to weddings and other special occasions. 

Al Mamsha St, Dubai Marina, 04 399 5533

SAbeauti Professional Ladies Salon

Whether it’s for a wedding, Eid celebrations, or any other occasion, SAbeauti Professional Ladies Salon is one of the ultimate beauty and cosmetic service providers in Dubai. It boasts an extensive list of services for clients – think: Moroccan baths, eyelash extensions, and mani-pedis. However, the henna services here are highly rated, with the option to choose from natural brown, jagua black, and red henna. The salon also offers a wide variety of traditional henna: Arabic, Sudani, Indian, and Pakistani designs for all occasions.

44th St – Deira, 04 269 9700, https://sabeautisalon.com/home

Eyana Ladies Salon 

Whether it’s body art, a basic tattoo, or something decorative for a special event, Eyana Ladies Salon is another great option, offering henna art solutions for all needs. You can choose from the extensive and carefully picked collection of designs or customise your own. The specialty of this henna salon is that it follows a 500-year-old technique that never fails to deliver a perfect henna statement for any occasion. 

Naresco Building 4, Karama, 04 396 7607, https://eyanasalon.com

Vandana Henna Art Designs

Henna that is truly opulent is the best way to describe the services of this henna salon. Considering its signature henna features 24-carat gold, you truly can’t get a more luxurious henna experience in Dubai. Its henna is also completely nickel-free and biocompatible. A mobile business, Vandana specialises in painting henna designs with gold to add just the right touch of glitter and shimmer, giving any bride the ultimate feeling of royalty on her big day. 

Al-Safa, 050 795 7018, http://vandanahennaartdesigns.com/

Afrina Beauty Centre 

As one of the six entities in its group, Afrina Henna And Training Centre is dedicated to providing the best henna services and professional henna training in Dubai. Its designs are best described as detailed and delicate with a modern twist. Be it casual henna or innovative body art, Afrina Beauty Centre will get it done using freshly prepared henna cones sans chemicals. It specialises in Arabic, Indian, traditional, classic, and modern henna designs.

512 Pinnacle Building, Sheikh Zayed Road, 04 392 9885, https://afrina.com/

Rachna Salon

Bringing authentic Indian henna techniques and talents to the UAE, Rachna Salon – with 35 years of experience – is a reputed henna spot in Dubai. Along with constantly evolving, it has also reinvented its designs to add a touch of Arabic culture. All of its henna services are delivered through professionals in a female-friendly setting and upholds henna as the focal point of its offerings. 

Villa # 610, Jumeirah St, Umm Suqeim, Jumeirah 3, 04 394 4489, http://www.rachnasalon.ae

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, the colour on our minds is red! Whether you have a date night planned or are celebrating your female friendships, a red lipstick is never the wrong choice – despite the challenge of choosing the right one. Rule #1? There are no rules. However, if you do need a little help, read on.

Choosing the Right Red

This is where many people don’t know where to begin. Should you go maroon, berry, or cherry red? Should you go light or dark? There are a few simple tips you can follow. Your skin tone is decided by whether you have a cool or warm complexion. For paler skin tones, note whether your skin has more of a pink undertone (cool) or an olive tone (warm).

For darker skins, determine if you have a golden undertone (warm) or more of a reddish/purple undertone (cool). A darker skin tone can definitely carry off much deeper shades, but if you have paler skin and want to be a little more daring, it’s always worth a try too. You never know, it might be your perfect shade! Once you have worked out your skin tone, refer to our product picks to find the shade right for you.

Cool Tones

Blue-based lipsticks suit those with cool tones. This MAC pick is perfect if you’re aiming for retro vibes.

Retro Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo, MAC COSMETICS

Prefer red-carpet feels? Charlotte Tilbury has just the shade.

Matte Revolution Lipstick – Red Carpet Red, CHARLOTTE TILBURY

If you’re new to wearing reds and unsure of too much colour, why not try a gloss instead?

Ultra Shine Lip Gloss in Glossy Cherry, SEPHORA

Warm Tones

People with warmer skin tones should opt for reds with more of an orange base. This one by Estée Lauder is our favourite for a fresh look. 

Pure Colour Envy in Impassioned, ESTÉE LAUDER

We love a lipstick worth flaunting in public. Case in point: this pick from Tom Ford Beauty.

Lip Color in Wild Ginger, TOM FORD BEAUTY

And again, if you’re not quite ready for red lipstick, this gloss is perfect for warm skin tones.

Crushed Oil-Infused Gloss in Hot Streak, BOBBI BROWN

Applying the Perfect Red

There are four main steps to ensure your lips look full and even, with your lipstick staying on for longer:

1. Apply a lip primer, such as the MAC Prep + Prime Lip, all over the lips including over the lip line. This has so many benefits: conditioning the lip, creating a perfect base for lipstick to glide on (especially a dryer matte lipstick), helping the colour last longer, and preventing lipstick bleeding into fine lines around the lips.
2. Apply lip liner in a colour close to the chosen lipstick. MAC does a great range of different lip liners to suit many shades. Line the lips and then colour in the lip slightly, too – this will also prolong the life of your lip colour.
3. Apply the lipstick you have chosen using the above tips.
4. Using your favourite concealer and a fine brush, tidy up any smudges or uneven lines to really perfect the shape. This will help make the lips look fuller, too.

Watch: How to Apply Red Lipstick

Don’t forget that the beauty advisors at the likes of Sephora are experts and will happily let you try different colours to find your right shade and finish, so use their knowledge! MAC, Estée Lauder, and many other brands also have a virtual try-on function on their websites so you can try before you buy online.

Other Red Pout Essentials

Prep + Prime Lip, MAC COSMETICS

Lip Pencil in Brick, MAC COSMETICS

Double Wear Stay-in-Place Concealer, ESTÉE LAUDER

For more makeup tips, follow @daniellejamesmakeup on Instagram.

If you’re still on a quest forgorgeous, natural-looking eyebrows while obsessing over the sparse/misshapen/truly unruly ones that you are currently sporting, then a visit to the experts is in order. Here, we share our top salon picks so you can achieve the brows of your dreams.

BROWZ

Here to give you a fantastic transformation, BROWZ offers a variety of beauty services and treatments, with the specialists using state-of-the-art equipment to work their magic. Its Flow Brows offering is a fan favourite, but if you fancy something more defined, there are many other treatments to choose from.

BROWZ, Al Wasl Road, opposite ENOC Petrol Station, 050 841 4289, browz.ae, open 9am-8pm daily

Benefit Cosmetics Brow Bar Lounge

Benefit Cosmetics, one of the world’s best beauty companies, has brought Dubai residents its fantastic brow bar lounge. From waxing to tinting and tweezing, you will find an array of services to help you channel your inner Brooke Shields.

Benefit Cosmetics Brow Bar Lounge, Sephora The Dubai Mall, 04 339 9828, benefitcosmetics.com/en-ae, open 10am-12am daily

Brow Studio

A salon dedicated to giving you the perfect sleek brows? Sign us up. Brow Studio in Dubai offers a range of extensive treatments designed for your brows – think: microblading, shading, sculpting, and even brow lamination.

Brow Studio,Al Seef 2 Tower, Cluster U, JLT, 054 401 6658, browstudiodubai.com, open 10am-9pm daily

Yin Yang

If you want to work with stylists from across the world, Yin Yang is the place for you. Boasting experts from three continents and a wide range of services, this salon is a one-stop shop for brow services, mani/pedis, and more. 

Yin Yang, Suha Hotel Apartments, PL Floor, Sadaf 3 behind Movenpick Hotel, JBR, Dubai, 04 439 0101, yinyang.ae, open 9am-9pm daily

Brau Bar & Beauty Clinic

Another staple for fashionistas across Dubai is Brau Bar & Beauty Clinic. offering a variety of treatments to enhance your beauty. Its brow services are top-notch, and you can easily choose the one that’s perfect for you. It even offers removal services to help you get rid of old semi-permanent brows!

Brau Bar & Beauty Clinic, The Springs Souk, 050 403 7551, brau.ae, open 10am-10pm daily

Sisters Beauty Lounge

One of the most beloved salons in the beauty game, Sisters is well-loved by everyone in Dubai. Offering extensive services from nail treatments to lash extensions and eyebrow tinting, this is where you can get a full-body transformation with ease.

Sisters Beauty Lounge, Financial Center Road, Downtown Dubai, 04 339 8500, sistersbeautylounge.com, open 9am-9pm daily

Ellyssar Beauty Salon

Lifting LVL, eyelash extensions, hair care treatments – it’s all on the menu at Ellyssar Beauty Salon. Bonus: it specialises in eyebrow microblading and wins rave reviews every time.

Ellyssar Beauty Salon, 104 1st floor Al Amiri Tower, Tecom, 04 427 6623, ellyssarsalon.com, open Saturday to Thursday 10am-8pm

Brows by Patsy

Located in Lespirit Medical Clinic, Brows by Patsy offers a range of treatments for flawless brows. You can find micropigmentation, microblading, and nanoblading on the menu here, so there’s something for everyone’s needs.

Brows by Patsy, Lespirit Medical Clinic, Beach Road, Jumeirah 3, 04 338 8238, browsbypatsy.com, open Sunday to Wednesday 9:30am-5pm 

THT Salon

One of the most recognisable salons on this list, THT salon has a whole host of innovative treatments to help your eyebrows stay on fleek. Its HD Brows treatment is raved about by beauty buffs across the city.

THT Salon, B04, Promenade Level, The Dome, Cluster N, JLT, Shop No B4 B5 B6, 04 589 6679, thathairtho.me, open 10am-9pm daily

Maris Aesthetic Clinic

Are you tired of thin brows? Do pigments fade quickly when applied to your eyebrows? Then Maris Aesthetic Clinic is where it’s at. The velvet brows here have amazing color retention, making sure you have perfectly pigmented eyebrows in the long run.

Maris Aesthetic Clinic, 327 Al Wasl Rd – Al Bada’a – Jumeirah 1, 04 235 5858, bymaris.com, open Monday to Thursday and Saturday 11am-8pm

Hey, remember when the lockdown meant the end of the weekly mani/pedi, essentially leaving a gaping hole in every woman’s planner? Well, with life thankfully returning back to normal, The Gaggler has nails on the brain. Enter: our round-up of the 10 best nail salons in Dubai.

Coya Spa

Nestled away in Mirdif, Coya Spa invites you to enjoy an extensive range of world-class nail products and services from some of the best international beauty brands. Their nail technicians use Essie, Alessandro, Margaret Dabbs and EMI Nails products to give you beautiful hands you can show off during any occasion.

Coya Spa, 1st Floor, Park Centre Mirdif, 41 26 B ST, +971 4 6015555, coyaspa.com, open 10am-9pm daily

Tips & Toes

With nine locations in various parts of Dubai, Tips & Toes is easily one of the most accessible nail salons on this list. They offer amazing manicures and an extensive range of nail services, including luscious treatments for the soft and stunning hands you deserve. This salon has numerous loyal customers who visit from all over Dubai.

Tips & Toes, Panorama, 6th St, The Greens,  +971 4 554 8431, tipsandtoes.com, open 9am-10pm daily

N.Bar

One of the oldest nail salons in Dubai, N.Bar has been the go-to place for spectacular nails for over 20 years. With over 11 branches to choose from, each offering impeccable service and flawless manicures, is it a surprise that it attracts fashionistas from across the city? We certainly don’t think so.

N.Bar, The Circle Mall, Jumeirah Village Circle, 800 6227, nbar.com, open Monday to Saturday 9am-10pm

THT Salon

If you want fabulous nails that are vegan and gluten-free, THT (That Hair Tho) has your back. They provide exclusive manicures and treatments for your nails using eco-friendly and cruelty-free products. Amazing and sustainable nails? That’s a win, not just for you but the environment too!

THT Salon, B04, Promenade Level, The Dome, Cluster N, Shop No B4 B5 B6i, +971 4 589 6679, thathairtho.me, open 10am-9pm daily

The Nail Spa

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the fantastic service of The Nail Spa. True to its name, they provide an extensive menu of services for your nails. With a wide array of Essie colours to choose from, your nails will have a glamorous makeover. You can even choose what kind of nail art you’d like from their Art Bar collections! 

The Nail Spa, Level One, Near Gate 1, Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 600 544 001, thenailspa.com, open 10am-10pm daily

Aveda

It’s easy to forget you are in a salon when you visit Aveda. The lush greenery inside, the luxurious mani/pedi station and the plentiful treatments available feel like a world away from the bustling city. If you fancy stunning makeovers for your hands, feet and mind, then Aveda is the best place for you.

Aveda, 431 Al Wasl Road, Galleria Mall, Jumeirah 1 – Dubai, 800 28332, aveda-me.com, open 8am-10pm daily

Laloge Beauty Salon

Offering stunning views of the downtown skyline and an array of luxurious services for your nails, Laloge is the place to experience true luxury. So treat yourself VIP-style and head here for a pampering time.  

Laloge Beauty Salons & Spa, The Golf Academy, The Address Hotel Montgomerie, +971 52 222 2901, laloge.com, open 10am-9pm daily

Kozma and Kozma

Fun & fabulous Nails? Say no more. Kozma and Kozma are here for you! Without a doubt, the most unique salon on this list, they offer an escape into a whimsical candy-land while giving your nails a gorgeous makeover. You can choose from an array of delightful and unique manicures such as Vanilla Marshmallow Manicure, Unicorn Manicure, and Pompom Monster Manicure. 

Kozma and Kozma, Al Wasl Rd – Umm Suqeim, +971 56 554 4534, kozmaandkozma.com, open 10am-7pm daily

Sisters Beauty Lounge

Luxurious pampering and stunning nails? Sign us up! Sisters Beauty Lounge has been operating for over 17 years and has several stores at prestigious locations in Dubai. Offering an extensive range of services for your nails, it is the perfect place for nail care.

Sisters Beauty Lounge, The Dubai Mall, Financial Center Rd, Downtown Dubai, +971 4 339 8500, sistersbeautylounge.com, open 9am-9pm daily

Pastels Salon

Offering services from hair care to manicures, Pastels is a must-visit salon if you want gorgeous nails. Located in the heart of Dubai, they have an array of nail services and treatments by an award-winning team. This is where you need to be for a genuinely fantastic makeover.

Pastels Salon, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Dubai Marina, +971 4 452 8031, pastels-salon.com, open 9am-7pm daily

There are so many makeup trends out there that it’s a minefield to figure out which ones you should be following. So what’s a girl to do? Master the following three that we’ve chosen for you! Bonus: each is perfect for fall.

Reverse Cat Eye

This trend has been around for a few months now, but it is still perfect to take you into the new season. It gives you just the right amount of grunge and is much easier to achieve than a normal winged liner. You may be wondering, ‘What exactly is a reverse cat eye?’

Well, it’s exactly what it sounds like – it’s an upside down version of the traditional winged eye look. Instead of only applying eyeliner to your upper eyelid, you will also place it on your lower lash line. After all, why should your lids have all the fun, right?Feel free to replace the gel liner shown in the video below (Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Black Ink) with a black or brown kohl pencil, as long as it’s easy to blend.

Watch the Video: How to Create the Reverse Cat Eye

90s Lip

Celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez are channeling their inner Linda Evangelista by sporting this trend circa now. This look is all about those hazy, matte lips with a soft gradient from your lip line to the centre of your lips, which gives you the perfect ‘pouty and full’ lip look.

You will need a nude brown liner (such as Whirl Lip Pencil by MAC) to create a defined line around the whole lip. There is no need to blend for this look. Next, use a clear or very sheer gloss or balm over the rest of your lips. This gives a contoured, plumped look to the lips whilst giving a little nod to the 90s. Pro tip: You can increase or decrease the drama of this look by going for a darker or lighter lip pencil.

Monochrome Makeup

This trend just keeps on coming back into our lives – but what does it even mean? Monochrome basically means varying tones of one colour, so in a makeup sense, this is where you’d match your eye, lip, and cheek colours by using the same or very similar hues of your chosen colour palette. This makeup look can be sweet and simple or statement-making, depending on which colour palette you choose.

An easy way to achieve this look is to do a wash of the eyeshadow (in whichever shade you have chosen) all over the lid. Blend this out using a fluffy brush to give a really soft, smoky finish. Then choose a lipstick in a very similar tone. Featured here is MAC Powder Kiss Liquid Lip Colour in Date-Maker to match the copper shade on the eyes. For the blush, you can use either your lipstick or your eyeshadow directly on your cheeks so the whole look ties together perfectly. However, be wary if the shades are very dark and opt for a blusher in a lighter shade instead.

Product Recommendations:

Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner, BOBBI BROWN

Lip Pencil in Whirl, MAC COSMETICS

Powder Kiss Liquid Lipcolour, MAC COSMETICS

Go give these a try and tag @thegaggler and @daniellejamesmakeup in your selfies on Instagram!

Having your nails done is on a par with cleaning your teeth twice a day when you’re a beauty-focused girl – you just do it. But while there are countless nail salons in Dubai, which are the ones that leave our hands and feet looking their prettiest? The nail wizards that we simply couldn’t live without? These five favourites have us high-fiving our technicians week in, week out.

WHO?

We Nails

WHERE?

Trident Grand Mall, Jumeirah Beach Residence

WHY?

You’d be forgiven if you thought that you’d been magically transported to the heart of New York when you first set eyes upon We Nails. Between the exposed brick walls, white subway tiles, graffiti, and neon signage, this boutique nail spa perched on the edge of JBR looks like exactly the kind of place Carrie Bradshaw would come to have her weekly mani. Pressed for time, I booked in for a Gelish mani and pedi and was thrilled with the results that, seven days later, still look unchipped and flawless. Rapid pampering aside, add We Nails to your list of must-try beauty haunts if you’re a lover of nail art – the yellow ombre nails we saw taking shape on the lady next to us were seriously envy-inducing. The salon also offers an array of beauty services, so sign me up for a blow-dry and lashes next time.

DIGITS, PLEASE?

Call 04 452 8226 or WhatsApp 050 5077 501.

WHO?

Pastels Jumeirah Salon

WHERE?

Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 3

WHY? 

One of Dubai’s first top-to-toe salons, Pastels has an army of dedicated fans who go nowhere else but this sprawling Umm Suqeim villa for every one of their beauty needs. Offering cutting-edge hair, skincare, lash, and nail treatments, the newly remodeled salon is bright, spacious, and chock-full of highly trained beauty professionals, many of whom have been with Pastels for years – always a good sign. The nail services range from a classic polish mani and pedi to gel formulations, gel enhancements, nail art (including Minx, loved by both Rihanna and Beyonce), and skin-boosting treats like callus peels and paraffin wraps. And aside from the really comfy spa chairs, super-relaxing foot soak and scrub, post-polish massages, and really good filter coffee, we can attest that our hands and feet always look and feel amazing after a pitstop at Pastels. Ten days into our latest Essie Gel manicure, and our keyboard-hammering nails still look hand-model perfect.

DIGITS, PLEASE?

To book, call 04 388 3534.

WHO?

Essa Beauty

WHERE?

Goldcrest Views 2, Jumeirah Lakes Towers

WHY?

Award-winning salon Essa Beauty is best known for its incredible facials, the secret behind the glowing complexions of numerous women across the city. But while its wide-reaching fanbase may well not entrust their skincare to anyone else, the same can be said for those who come here to keep their hands and feet in tip-top shape. It offers every kind of nail service – think: regular manis and pedis, gels, acrylic nail extensions, nail art, chrome nails, and an array of treats for hands and feet. And then there’s the beautifully styled space, where super-comfortable tan leather recliners, white walls, warm woods, and stunning murals set the tone as seriously talented technicians leave you looking gorgeous and feeling relaxed. 

DIGITS, PLEASE?

Call 04 374 4288.

WHO?

Sisters Beauty Lounge

WHERE?

The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Village Mall, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Mirdif City Centre

WHY?

Sisters is basically a Dubai institution when it comes to beautifying, having been the go-to for women since it opened in 2003. Now a multi-award winning brand with seven outposts across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it is all about 360-degree luxury pampering – book yourself in for a mani and pedi, and we guarantee you wish you could stay all day. With a booking app boasting an interactive menu of nail trends, colours, designs, and shapes to help you choose exactly what kind of nails you want to leave the salon with, you can be as creative or as classic as you wish. We love the newly launched vegan gel bottle polishes. Besides the fact that they come in over 100 shades, are chip-resistant, and last up to three weeks, they actually prevent the nail damage that can happen with harsh gel products. But our favourite? The Russian manicure, a gentle gel technique that is great for the condition of the nails and takes only 60 minutes. 

DIGITS, PLEASE?

Call 04 388 3534.

WHO?

The Nail Pavilion

WHERE?

Goldcrest Views 1, Cluster V, JLT

WHY?

A one-stop shop for hair, nails, and beauty, this independently run salon in JLT has been on our speed dial since it was recommended by one of the most well-respected women in the Dubai beauty community – and for good reason. For starters, the menu boasts all manner of polishes – regular, gel, halal, vegan, and non-toxic included. As for the nail services? They range from basic mani-pedis to gel treatments, acrylics, enhancements and overlays, nail art, and rainbow nails alongside pampering scrubs, softening wraps, and much more. With a team of experienced nail experts who train every three months, every nail service here comes with a 24-hour guarantee and a free service if anything goes wrong. Better still, if you can’t get to the salon, the salon will come to you! Bringing the total beautifying option right to your front door for just AED 55 extra, you can be glammed-up from top to toe in the comfort of your own home – ideal when working from home means that a Zoom call from the manicure station is an impossibility.

DIGITS, PLEASE?

Call 04 442 9791.

The you-know-what continues to rear its ugly head, impacting everything from travel plans and social commitments to mental health and overall lifestyles, with erratic sleep schedules an unfortunate byproduct. Both anxiety and insomnia are on the rise, so you’re probably grappling with the likes of puffiness, eye bags, crow’s feet, and dark circles more than ever before. And the fact that wearing a face mask keeps your eyes front and center? Not helping. With that in mind, we tapped three different experts to address the three Cs – care, cure, and conceal – of the delicate eye area, answering some of the most frequently asked questions along the way.

Care

Dr. Shadan Naji, Dermatologist at Dr Kayle Aesthetic Clinic

At what age should we start paying attention to the eye area, and how?

The area around the eyes is the first to start showing signs of ageing and tiredness. In general, we should pay attention to the area as soon as possible, but certainly start with an anti-ageing cream once you hit the age of 25.

Asian women tend to struggle more with dark circles due to genetics and higher melanin levels. Any tips to prevent them?

There are two tips that I always share with my patients to help with this issue. Firstly, use a brightening cream or a serum that contains vitamin C. Secondly, avoid the use of irritative eye makeup remover and heavy mascara as both might create an irritation that can lead to more discolouration in the area.

Some still say that special eye cream isn’t needed, while others say it’s a skincare must-have. How do you feel?

It’s a must to have a specific cream for the undereye area as you cannot use your normal skincare products. This is because the eye contour area is more sensitive and delicate than other parts of the face, so while you want to deliver the same ingredients you’d use elsewhere, you need them in doses that are gentle enough to not trigger any irritation. Remember, the thin skin around the eyes absorbs better than the thicker skin on other areas of the face, so eye creams are formulated with some of the same active ingredients as moisturisers, but using lower doses or less potency.

Puffiness and eye bags are common complaints. What tips can you share to prevent the two?

Use a small jade roller every night to apply the eye cream and gently massage it into the area around the eyes. This issue can also be helped by dietary choices, such as avoiding excess salt and alcohol.

Jade Stone Facial Roller, PRP AED 75, available at lookfantastic.ae

Increased screen time since the onset of the pandemic has worsened our skin, so it’s likely the same for the undereye area. What can we do to offset some of the damage?

Use a specific eye cream twice daily, but supplement this with in-clinic treatments. Rejuvenation treatments such as PRP and mesotherapy are always a smart investment as they will dramatically improve the appearance of the area and, as an added bonus, lessen your need for a concealer.

Cure

Edwige Gandin, Beautician at Pastels Salon

Dark circles aside, the Hydradermie Eye Lift at Pastels tackles crow’s feet. What can you tell us about this commonly occurring issue?

Crow’s feet wrinkles tend to initially appear in the mid to late 30s. Depending on the condition of the skin and general care, though, they can even reveal themselves in the mid 20s. There are some measures, however, that you can take to avoid them taking hold too soon. These include getting adequate sleep, elevating the head during sleep, and applying cold compresses. You should also minimise sun exposure and try one of the following: cucumber slices, tea bags, vitamin C, and retinoid creams.

What key tools and products are used as part of the treatment?

The Hydradermie Eye Lift is a unique 35-minute treatment that rejuvenates the eye area, targeting signs of ageing and tiredness around the eye area and tackling fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles. It uses a combination of machine technology and a specially designed hands-on massage together with a Guinot skin repair eye mask to aid maximum effectiveness, making for a relaxing and results-driven treatment. 

The treatment uses Guinot’s patented drainage method to remove toxins from the muscle and brighten the skin, as well as its ionisation technology to help the skin absorb the active ingredients deep into the epidermal layer. It is based on the belief that positive ions tend to oxidise by pollution and the sun, which will hasten the ageing process, especially the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Therefore, the ‘double-ionisation’ effect refers to the rebalancing of the positive and negative ions when two handheld rollers are used, with a gel serum applied on the eye contour region. The relaxing massage softens the facial features and rejuvenates the skin.

Who do you think would benefit most from the Hydradermie Eye Lift?

Anyone who wants to reduce dark circles, puffiness, fine lines, and wrinkles and ensure their eye contour region looks brighter and younger.

What can one do to maintain its results for as long as possible?

The best results will be achieved when you commit to having the treatment twice a week for a month, and then use an eye serum day and night. My current favourite is the Nimue Eye Serum.

Eye Serum, PRP AED 187, available at esseandco.com

Conceal

Fizah Pasha, Founder of Brulée Beauty

Let’s start with an age-old question. Concealer or foundation first, and why?

I always like to start with foundation first – that way, it’s easier to conceal the parts that need a little bit of extra love.

Brulée Beauty’s concealers cater specifically to women with golden-yellow undertones. What tips can you share to make the most of them?

As a result of higher melanin levels, we tend to be darker underneath our eyes as well. Brulée Beauty concealers were formulated to be full coverage, which is why they have a higher content of pigments. I also made sure they dry matte so they stay on longer and cover dark circles better. For both these reasons, you need to have a well-moisturised undereye area to tackle the concealers from getting cakey. I also recommend a light dusting of powder to make the concealer last longer.

Even with a detailed shade guide in place, it’s common to order a shade that’s not quite right, especially when shopping online. What advice would you give to avoid this issue?

Well, because Brulée Beauty concealers are formed with a built-in colour corrector, I suggest always going one shade lighter than your usual concealer. We also offer personalised services whereby you can get in touch and speak to us about getting shade-matched. We’re also working on something exciting that we are about to launch soon to tackle this issue.

As a makeup artist with over a decade of experience, what is your concealer philosophy?

I personally like to build up coverage – I start with a smaller amount and build up to how much is needed. Less is always more when it comes to applying makeup, in my opinion.

What mistakes are we making when it comes to concealer?

We usually don’t apply concealers that are true to our undertones – that makes our undereye area look grey. We also like to highlight using concealers, which gives an unnatural look, especially in photos. Concealers are meant to conceal the darkness underneath your eye, not make that area look so light that it stands out from the rest of your face.

Concealer, PRP AED 125, available at esseandco.com