DUBAI: The beauty and personal care products industry is the fastest-growing business in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). According to research conducted in 2016 by Euromonitor International, the market is valued at $25.4 billion and expected to grow at 6.4 percent a year over the next five years. The market in Saudi Arabia dominates the retail sector overall, with individual spending anticipated to grow from $168 in 2015 to $273 in 2020.
The mass production used to keep up with this demand can have significant impact on the health of the nation. Several research studies suggest a possible link between breast cancer and parabens, a key ingredient in many personal care products. One study suggests that underarm products containing parabens act like the estrogen hormone in the body, fueling certain breast cancers. Similarly, other types of parabens can be found in cosmetics, moisturizers, hair care, and shaving products. The International Agency for Research for Cancer has classified certain chemicals like ethylene oxide (used in perfumes and cosmetics) and oxybenxone (found in many sunscreens) as cariogenic with sufficient evidence of breast cancer.
Which brings us to the bigger question…at what cost are we willing to look and feel good? Leena Al-Abbas, founder and owner of The Organic Glow Beauty Lounge in Dubai, the regions first-ever and only organic spa says: “As a consumer, it is your responsibility to do your research and weigh the pros and cons of each beauty product or treatment.”
“With the amount of information and awareness available at our hands, there is really no reason not to educate yourself on the dangers of harsh chemicals. Understand the difference between chemicals and harsh chemicals, and opt for alternative treatments,” she says.
Al-Abbas’ journey started seven years ago, when she realized that beauty salon treatments were triggering adverse skin reactions like breaking out in rashes, and an itchy scalp. The organic movement had just started gaining momentum in the West and despite Abbas’ search for organic beauty treatments within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), she could not find anything that catered to her sensitive skin.
Seven years later, the salon offers toxin-free, all organic products and treatments that go back to nature — using fresh fruits, organic sugar, rose water, etc. The Organic Glow Beauty Lounge strives to increase awareness among women about the dangers of using harsh chemicals and promotes ethical, holistic beauty by offering a menu of toxic-free services.
“Customers who are dealing with fertility issues or are pregnant, and those who are recovering from breast cancer are advised to stay away from toxic chemicals,” hence, the salons clientele is mostly pregnant women, cancer survivors, and vegan customers.
The Organic Glow Beauty Lounge educates and offers safer alternatives to conventional salon services. Some of its unique treatments include:
· Non-toxic, vegan manicures and pedicures that are safe for pregnant women.
· A special waxing sugar blend that does not damage the skin and provides healing, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties.
· Organic herbal treatments that strengthen the hair, are safe for sensitive skin, free from ammonia, parabens, alcohol and gluten, 100 percent vegan and certified non-GMO.
Lastly, Al-Abbas shares some tips to help customers make better health and wellbeing choices. “It is impossible to avoid every single synthetic chemical, but you can do your part in limiting the amount of toxins your body is exposed to. Be sure to eat clean, avoid chemical-laden processed foods, and look for organic products.”
“It is best to educate yourself and spend some time reading ingredients. Also, a great source to research the amount of toxic chemicals that might be in your cosmetic and personal care products is to log on to the EWG Skin Deep Database and check your products,” Al-Abbas concludes.
Are your beauty products increasing your risk of breast cancer?
Are your beauty products increasing your risk of breast cancer?
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Laduree’ the authentic French experience
Laduree, in Jeddah’s Fayfa Avenue, blends the brand’s heritage of Parisian elegance with the rich essence of Arabian culture. This renowned patisserie has long been celebrated for its iconic macarons and pastries, and the Jeddah location does not disappoint.
Their macarons are works of art: delicate, flavorful, perfectly crafted and simply divine. Varieties include salted caramel, pistachio, rose, and chocolate.
The Eugenie macarons, with flavors including Marie-Antoinette tea and blackcurrant Violette, add an extra layer of sophistication. These treats are beautifully presented in gift boxes, making them perfect for presents to allow a friend to indulge in a sweet moment.
The menu features a wide range of delicacies, including flaky croissants (try the chocolate-pistachio or zatar walnut), savory breakfast options such as eggs Florentine and the signature Laduree omelet, and a delightful brunch spread.
The brunch platter is an absolute highlight, offering a variety of sweet and savory items, including warm French toast, Laduree’s signature granola, and fresh fruit salad. The addition of a macaron and a beverage makes it a well-rounded and indulgent experience.
The lunch menu includes mushroom risotto, grilled salmon, and gnocchi truffle asparagus. Each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail.
The main courses are substantial, and the quality of the ingredients shines through. A particular favorite is the vol-au-vent filled with chicken or salmon, served with a mushroom sauce that is rich, buttery, and satisfying.
There are numerous dessert options available. The isaphan yule log and traditional galette are both equally impressive, with layers of flavors and textures that transport you to a Parisian patisserie.
Laduree’s prices are relatively high, but the experience is undeniably luxurious and the menu features a variety of delightful dishes in each of which the attention to detail is evident.
Check @ladureesaudiarabia on Instagram for more details.
Emergency contraception pill could be an alternative to mifepristone for abortions, study suggests
A new study suggests that a pill used for emergency contraception could be repurposed at a higher dose as an abortion drug, providing a possible alternative to mifepristone, one of the two drugs used in the most common type of abortion in the United States.
Mifepristone has been under attack by abortion opponents, with several states seeking in federal court to restrict its use.
Now used in two-thirds of US abortions, mifepristone blocks a hormone needed to sustain a pregnancy. It’s typically used with misoprostol, which causes contractions and bleeding.
In the study, 133 women who were up to nine weeks’ pregnant took a 60 milligram dose of ulipristal acetate, the active ingredient in the prescription contraceptive Ella, followed by misoprostol 24 hours later.
For 97 percent of them, that drug combo was effective at inducing an abortion, an effectiveness equal to the mifepristone-misoprostol combination. Four women needed a procedure or an additional medication to complete the abortion.
The 60 milligram dose of ulipristal used in the study is twice the dose of Ella, a prescription drug used for emergency contraception.
The company that makes Ella says on its website that it won’t end an existing pregnancy. It can be taken up to five days after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.
The findings, published Thursday in the journal NEJM Evidence, may make emergency contraception a target of abortion opponents.
“I’m really worried that these results could be misapplied by anti-abortion activists to try to further their assault on contraception,” said Dr. Daniel Grossman of the University of California, San Francisco, who wrote an accompanying editorial in the journal. Grossman praised the study but said more research is needed on ulipristal as an abortion drug before doctors would prescribe it routinely for that use.
Lead author Dr. Beverly Winikoff, president of Gynuity Health Projects, a not-for-profit research group, said women need information about ulipristal, especially with mifepristone challenged in court.
“At least now we would have an alternative,” Winikoff said. “I think it’s better to have more things that you could use.”
— The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Recipes for Success: Chef Garnaras Giorgos of Parea Greek Brasserie talks cooking with love
RIYADH: Parea Greek Brasserie, newly opened at the Hilton Riyadh Olaya, aims “to present Greek cuisine in a way that respects tradition but also embraces innovation,” head chef Garnaras Giorgos tells Arab News.
“Parea offers a unique experience, not only through the stunning scenery and view but also through my personal take on Greek cuisine. I bring flavors and memories from across Greece — from Cyprus to the Zagori mountains and northern Greece. What I aim to offer my guests is a taste of my journey, along with a deep appreciation for Santorini, where I spent five years learning to respect nature and use exceptional ingredients.”
The Greek chef says his grandfathers were his first mentors. “I vividly remember when I was four, standing alongside both my grandfathers — Panayioti and Yiorgo (whom I was named after). They were showing me how to prepare a whole lamb on the spit for our family celebrations. It’s a cherished memory I’ll never forget,” he explains.
“I’ve been in love with food since a very young age, and that passion is the main driving force behind my career,” he adds.
Here, he talks to Arab News about his time in Saudi Arabia, his top tip for amateur chefs and his management style.
What has it been like living and working in Saudi Arabia so far?
Having lived in various countries, what stands out most to me here is the sense of safety. I’ve never felt more secure. I’m still taking time to integrate into the local culture, which I deeply admire. I make it a point to explore new places in my free time.
What’s your top tip for amateurs?
Focus on using fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. When you cook with what’s available at the right time of year, the results will always be delicious.
What one ingredient can instantly improve any dish?
Love! When you cook with love, the food is guaranteed to be full of flavor and soul.
When you go out to eat, do you find yourself critiquing the food?
I try to simply enjoy the moment and savor the flavors. I focus on the positives and appreciate the effort that goes into the dish, rather than being overly critical.
What’s your favorite cuisine to order?
It really depends on my mood. I can go from street food to a fine dining experience — I’m always eager to try something new.
What’s your go-to dish if you have to cook something quickly at home?
Trahanas — a traditional Greek hearty soup. It’s quick, healthy and full of flavor. I actually make my version of it at Parea.
What customer request most annoys you?
I’m usually able to accommodate any request. The key is understanding the guest’s needs and finding a way to deliver.
What’s your favorite dish to cook and why?
There’s no one particular dish — I love the ones that bring back memories, especially those with a story behind them. So I’d say anything hearty with personal significance.
What’s the most difficult dish for you to get right?
The whole quail. It’s a dish that always presents a challenge — but it’s also an opportunity to perfect my technique.
Pare
Relaxed? Quite the opposite! While we do have our fun moments, when it’s busy there’s no room for democracy in the kitchen. It’s all about precision, teamwork and getting the job done efficiently.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Finding Sushi’ restaurant in Riyadh
If you are looking for a spot in Riyadh to satisfy your sushi and teppanyaki cravings, Finding Sushi is worth a visit.
This restaurant delivers a delightful dining experience with a fusion of sushi rolls and sizzling teppanyaki dishes.
The sushi selection was impressive. The shrimp tempura roll (SR63/$16.80), dynamite shrimp roll (SR43), and classic California roll (SR61) were well-crafted, with fresh flavors. The rolls were paired beautifully with traditional ginger and wasabi.
For a heartier option, the chicken teppanyaki stood out with tender chicken pieces grilled to perfection, accompanied by a medley of sauteed vegetables. The fried rice served with it was fragrant and well-seasoned, making it a satisfying choice.
The overall pricing is on the higher side, with a total bill of SR245 for two people, including two soft drinks. While the quality of the food was commendable, the portion sizes were quite small, leaving us wanting more for the price paid. This makes it a better option for light dining rather than a filling meal.
For more information, check their Instagram @findingsushi.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Copacabana’ – Brazilian restaurant in Riyadh
- The restaurant’s decor enhances the dining experience, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere
Brazilian restaurant Copacabana offers an unforgettable dining experience with its fixed price, all-you-can-eat meat skewers.
Located on King Fahd Road in Riyadh, the restaurant caters to those seeking lighter options as well — you can find chicken, a variety of salads and soups alongside an array of succulent meats such as tenderloin and ribs.
The lunchtime buffet is priced at SR180 ($48) and includes 16 different salads including salmon, chicken and the classic Caesar. For dinner, the cost is SR265 and the highlight is undoubtedly the signature picanha, a must-try for anyone wanting an authentic Brazilian barbecue experience.
I particularly enjoyed the spicy malagueta wings and skewered chicken and the grilled pineapple, served as a dessert, added a unique touch to the meal. While I found the burger to be average, the other dishes left a lasting impression.
The restaurant’s decor enhances the dining experience, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. I have dined there three times, each visit marked by excellent service and flavorful food.
The attentive staff ensured we had everything we needed. The restaurant is well-maintained and thoughtfully decorated, with small cushions on the seats contributing to a cozy ambiance. The portion sizes are generous, although the grilled seabass was slightly salty for my taste.
Whether you prefer your meat rare, medium or well-done, Copacabana has you covered. With its luxurious environment and exceptional food, I highly recommend giving it a try.
