Dramatic to demure: Beauty guru's take on Dubai's evolving aesthetics

Long known for its trend-driven beauty scene, what’s popular in Dubai often sets the tone for aesthetics in the wider G.C.C region.

“If there's something that's trending or viral on TikTok, then you're going to see it on people's faces,” says Dr Hasia, a G.P. aesthetics and influencer in the UAE, in conversation with Nukta.

She explains, however, that she has recently noticed a shift away from extreme makeovers, such as large 'Russian lips', dramatic chin fillers, and pronounced jawlines.

“I'm glad to be seeing the back of that, because now people are going for more natural, demure looks,” she says, adding that many now prefer to enhance their unique features rather than conform to cookie-cutter beauty standards.

Botox and filler become the ‘new normal’

No longer just a celeb secret, Botox and dermal fillers are quickly becoming prevalent in the mainstream.

This is especially true among influencers and public figures who need to maintain a polished camera-ready appearance. Celebrities openly discussing their cosmetic enhancements has helped greatly de-stigmatize beauty procedures.

Beauty is not one-size-fits-all. It’s important to feel confident and authentic

"Whether it’s for career advancement or simply to boost self-esteem, these procedures have a huge impact on how people feel about themselves," says Dr Hasia.

However, this ubiquity has led to a rise in cheap, unlicensed products or unqualified practitioners, which she strongly warns against.

"If you pay cheap, you pay twice," she warns.

Celebrity impact

The influence of public figures on beauty standards in Dubai is undeniable. According to Dr Hasia, some of the biggest trendsetters in the region when it comes to beauty are media personality Kylie Jenner, model Bella Hadid and Dubai makeup tycoon Huda Kattan.

However, she warns against blindly copying celebrities.

"Everyone has a different face. This is not ‘copy and paste,’" she says. “Dubai is full of ‘copy and paste’ aesthetics, where everyone has the same lips, the same cheeks, the same chin. At this point, it’s actually ridiculous.”

Despite Dubai’s ever-evolving beauty standards, Dr Hasia emphasizes the importance of authenticity over all else.

“It’s all about finding a balance between enhancing one’s features and embracing individuality,” Dr. Hasiya emphasizes. “Beauty is not one-size-fits-all. It’s important to feel confident and authentic, not pressured into conforming to someone else’s idea of beauty.”