eid beauty rituals
Courtesy of Giorgio Armani

First things first, how has Eid crept on us so quickly? For Muslims across the globe, today marks the start of Eid Al-Adha. This Eid is special in that it’s a sort of reset. The day of Arafah is all about rebooting your old life and starting with a clean slate. Living in the West, Eid feels like more of a normal day, which is a stark difference to how things are done in the Middle East. But the celebration comes alive with how you choose to spend the day, and I’ve learned that it’s all about the small details. Personally, my beauty routine sets the tone for my day. A special day starts with an elaborate and luxurious routine, while a less exciting day calls for a simple yet effective routine.

Every step of the process is part of something bigger and holds so much importance.

Eid is a day of traditions, family, love and community, but also your best clothing and presenting your best self. So while a beauty routine may seem frivolous, it’s a pivotal factor in the Eid morning custom. I don’t know about you, but the tales of Eid mornings in my household are legendary. It’s insanity in the best way possible. Everyone knows their place and it’s become almost second nature, with everyone operating on an Eid high. There are no let-ups when it comes to my Eid beauty routine. Every step of the process is part of something bigger and holds so much importance.

eid beauty makeup rituals
Courtesy of Zeynab Mohamed

This may seem excessive, but my Eid beauty routine starts a couple of days beforehand with a lymphatic drainage massage (if you’re in London, book yourself in at Remedi London). Anyone who’s serious about beauty and wellness can appreciate the benefits of a lymphatic massage, and they always leave me feeling like a completely new person. It’s very serious business, and I take a 360-degree approach. I’m here to show up as my best self for the most important days in the Islamic calendar.

One of the best investments I’ve made for my skin is red light therapy. I use my CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Face Mask every morning to keep blemishes at bay and help my skin look healthy and radiant. That extra step ensures that my skin is reaping all the benefits on a special day.

On to skincare. It may be cliché, but this time to reflect and completely take in the moment offers a split second where you fully comprehend the magnitude of the day before the magical chaos with your nearest and dearest begins. I’m big on dewy, healthy-looking skin, so I always opt for the 111Skin Rose Gold Facial Mask. Infused with colloidal gold, peptides and rose damask extracts, it absorbs deep into the skin to smooth and plump for an instant glow boost.

111Skin Rose Gold Facial Mask

111Skin Rose Gold Facial Mask, Dhs120, SHOP NOWTo create the perfect canvas for makeup application, it’s all about MAC’s Hyper Real Serumizer Skin Balancing Hydration Serum. A serum-moisturiser hybrid, it’s perfect for hot climates as it doesn’t feel greasy or heavy, instead leaving you with the most incredible hydrated, silky smooth base. Of course, there’s no skimping on eye care either. Start with the 111Skin eye masks (which are as glorious as the sheet masks) to depuff and brighten. I also adore the Chanel Hydra Beauty eye cream. Created with beads of moisture, it offers a refreshing hit for peepers.

Chanel Hydra Beauty Micro Creme Yeux Illuminating Hydrating Eye Cream
Chanel Hydra Beauty Micro Crème Yeux, Dhs285, SHOP NOW

When it comes to makeup, it’s all about being fun and playful while staying true to products that make you feel like the best version of yourself. For me, that’s Charlotte Tilbury’s Flawless Filter, which does exactly as its name suggests. It’s a gorgeous, radiant glowing filter that can be used underneath makeup as a primer or over makeup as a highlighter. The Makeup by Mario Foundation is also incredible to create a real-looking but flawless base, and Fenty Beauty blushes add a pretty flush of colour. For lips, my go-to’s are a MAC lip liner and the Dior lip glow oils.

There are no limits when it comes to eye makeup. Glitter, sparkle and metallics all have the green light. I adore the Natasha Denona Zendo Palette as the looks you can create are endless and the shimmery shades ensure your eyelids get that real Eid beauty treatment.

Natasha Denona Zendo Palette
Natasha Denona Zendo Palette, Dhs275, SHOP NOW

My Eid morning beauty routine is about connection. As anyone celebrating knows, the days can get extremely busy. So by having that moment of solitude for yourself, the process of focusing on your beauty routine allows you to reflect on the importance of the day and the celebration it brings.