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[shafiqah-in-diaspora]

A Call to Return

I can’t stop thinking about the moment when Rasulullah (peace and blessings be upon him) was given the choice by Allah whether to stay in this world or return to Him. Jibreel came down to convey this choice and without hesitation, Rasulullah, with his unwavering devotion, chose to be with Allah.

There’s a hadith narrated by Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her), where she recounts Rasulullah's last words:

 اللَّهُمَّ الرَّفِيقَ الأَعْلَى "O Allah, the Highest Companion"

Reported in Sahih Bukhari (4463, 6348, 6509) and Sahih Muslim (2444).

He repeated this three times, indicating his choice to be with Allah the "Highest Companion" over anything this world had to offer.

Source: Islam.qa and Mufti

When I first heard this story many years ago, I was struck with sadness. Disappointed, even. How could Rasulullah, our beloved guide and light, chose to leave us? As a child, it felt like an abandonment. Isn’t he the Prophet? The one sent to lead us? Why would he leave us behind?

But as I grew older, the depth of this moment began to sink in. Rasulullah, though chosen by Allah to deliver His message was still human. He had walked this Earth, carried the weight of revelation, faced hardship after hardship, and poured his heart into guiding us. He too must have grown weary, and the thought of returning to Allah where ultimate peace, love, and comfort reside was surely something he longed for.

I also now find myself yearning for the companionship of Allah. I, too, feel the weight of this world at times—the demands, the trials, the constant battle between my desires and pleasing Allah. This world is undeniably beautiful, but it also batters and bruises us along the way. Nothing compares to the life beyond.

I am tired. Worn down not just by the everyday struggles, but by the expectations that come with being the eldest daughter. And then there’s the rat race of work, the endless cycle that leaves little room to breathe. It wears you down in ways you don’t realize until you’re too deep into it.

Maybe it’s Allah’s way of reminding me that true rest is with Him. Maybe my time here on earth is slowly winding down, and this is His call for my soul to return to Him before my body does.

[shafiqah-in-diaspora]

Unpacking Nuuha’s Skincare Range

I had the privilege of trying several products from the Nuuha line, including the now-discontinued Ceraglow Brightening Serum, the 10X Soothing Complex Hyper Relief Serum, the Mugwort Hydra Bright Gentle Daily Foam Cleanser, the 7X Peptide Ultimate Glass Skin Moisturizer, and the Ultra Glow Brightening Serum Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ over the past three months. And here's my honest review after putting these products to the test.

Disclaimer: This review is based solely on my personal experience and may differ from others’ opinions. Your experience with these products may vary.

Serum

Ceraglow Brightening Serum (Discontinued)

Target concerns: hyperpigmentation, blemish scars, discoloration, uneven skin tone, and a damaged skin barrier.

Ingredients Overview: Aqua, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Alpha-Arbutin, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Triethylene Glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Centella Asiatica, Ceramide NP, Methylpropanediol, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Tetrasodium EDTA

Verdict: ⭐️

This product was marketed as being highly effective for acne, fading hyperpigmentation, and calming irritated skin. However, I found it too potent for my skin, which was disappointing. It caused breakouts and large pimples, leaving behind a stubborn bump under my chin that I couldn’t fully get rid of. I eventually stopped using it. Thank Lord this product is no longer on the market. 

[I was relieved when Nuuha later reformulated it into two separate serums (10X Soothing Complex Hyper Relief Serum and 4X Brightening Complex Advanced Glow Serum) to cater to different skin sensitivities.]

*Unlike the other products in the Nuuha range, I used this one in 2022/2023.

2. 10X Soothing Complex Hyper Relief Serum

Target Concerns: damaged skin barrier, redness and acne.

Ingredients Overview: Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Betaine, 1,2-Hexanediol, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Hydroxyacetophenone, Butylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Panthenol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Allantoin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Centella Asiatica Extract, Disodium EDTA, Octyldodecanol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Paeonia Lactiflora Root Extract, Agrimonia Pilosa Extract, Phytosteryl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Ceramide NP, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid, Asiaticoside.

Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

One bottle lasted me about a month and a half, with a usage of twice a day. Unfortunately, I was mildly disappointed, especially since I had seen rave reviews on TikTok and found the host's live presentation very convincing.

I used the serum alongside Jumiso Hyaluronic Toner occasionally, and even when I stopped using the toner to isolate the serum’s effect, there wasn’t much noticeable change and the overall results were still underwhelming. The serum did help soothe some of the existing acne but failed to prevent it from resurfacing.

I know my review may seem a bit critical, but I encourage you to give it a try. The ingredients are highly regarded for their skin-soothing and restorative properties, and it might work differently for you. Skincare is often about finding the right match for your individual skin type, so it’s worth exploring if you are interested in the benefits this serum promises.

Cleanser

Mugwort Hydra Bright Gentle Daily Foam Cleanser

Target Concerns: damaged skin barrier, dull skin tone and acne.

Ingredients Overview: Water, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Betaine, Lauryl Betaine, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Powder, Polyquaternium-39, Allantoin, Pentylene Glycol, Pinus Sylvestris Leaf Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Illicium Verum (Anise) Fruit Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Disodium EDTA, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Sodium Benzoate, Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract (Mugwort), Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Streptococcus Thermophilus Ferment, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Brassica Oleracea Capitata (Cabbage) Leaf Extract, Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Extract, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Beta-Glucan, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Ceramide NP, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Potassium Hyaluronate.

Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

The idea that any cleanser will suffice because it only stays on your skin for a few minutes is simply false. A poor choice in cleanser can damage your skin barrier and lead to multiple breakouts—believe me, I’ve learned this the hard way.

What makes this cleanser stand out is its ability to cleanse without stripping my skin of moisture. I have tried numerous cleansers in the past, only to end up with a face that felt tight and devoid of natural oils. This one, however, lathers beautifully and does an excellent job of removing dirt without irritation. If you wear heavy makeup, though, be sure to double cleanse. And for those with oily skin, this cleanser can be used up to four times a day. However, if you have dry skin like mine, sticking to twice a day is ideal.

Overall, it’s simply a gentle, non-irritating cleanser that gets the job done as it should.

Moisturizer

7X Peptide Ultimate Glass Skin Moisturizer

Target Concerns: damaged skin barrier, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin texture, and uneven skin tone.

Ingredients Overview: Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Potassium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide N, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Copper Tripeptide-1, Oligopeptide-29, Oligopeptide-32, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Dimethicone, Capryly| Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Panthenol, Illicium Verum (Anise) Fruit Extract, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Triethylhexanoin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Disodium EDTA, Isostearic Acid, Sucrose Stearate, PEG-8, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloy|dimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Squalane, Propanediol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Arginine, Pentylene Glycol, Carbomer, Pinus Sylvestris Leaf Extract, Allantoin, Trehalose, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Phytosteryl/OctyldodecylLauroylGlutamate, Octyldodecanol, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Caprylic/Capric Glycerides.

Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

I snagged two bottles and silently hoped it would be a game-changer, but unfortunately, it turned out to be a letdown. It didn't cause any breakouts or have a strange odor, but the lightweight formula didn’t quite cut it for me. Even after layering it 2-3 times, my skin still felt dry. 

It did manage to address some old-dry spots on my forehead, which is a plus. However, given the ingredient list and the claims made,  I was hoping for a more substantial hydration boost. It’s a good moisturizer, that’s for sure, but while it’s not a total miss, it didn’t deliver the level of moisture I needed.

Sunscreen

1. Ultra Glow Brightening Serum Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ (Chemical Sunscreen)

Target Concerns: damaged skin barrier, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin texture, and uneven skin tone.

Ingredients Overview: Water, Homosalate, Dipropylene Glycol, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Alcohol Denat., Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Butylene Glycol, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Methoxy PEG/PPG-25/4 Dimethicone, Bis-PEG/PPG-20/5 PEG/PPG-20/5 Dimethicone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Octocrylene, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Dimethicone, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Arginine, t-Butyl Alcohol, Prunus Mume Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Saururus Chinensis Extract, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Laurus Nobilis Leaf Extract, Cnidium Officinale Root Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Borago Officinalis Extract, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract, Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract, Hyacinthus Orientalis (Hyacinth) Extract

Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

GAMECHANGER. Provides extra moisture to my skin? Check. Reduces dryness and flakiness? Check. Lightweight and non-greasy? Check. Doesn’t clog pores? Check. Layers well with other products? Check. 

This sunscreen delivers on all fronts. Pssst. If you are a Muslim, you can simply wash your face to perform wudhuk without needing to double cleanse. 

As someone with dry skin, I find this sunscreen to be remarkably effective. The lightweight formula provided ample hydration without feeling greasy, which is often a challenge with many sunscreens. I just wish they produced a sunstick with the same consistency and formula. Otherwise, I would have given it an ∞/5. Sorrows, prayers, sorrows. 

[shafiqah-in-diaspora]

Familiarity Fosters Complacency

This reminds me of the line ‘familiarity breeds contempt’ from Taylor Swift’s song ‘Bejeweled’, and I would like to throw a few thoughts on it.

When we are close to someone, we naturally become more sensitive and vulnerable. Our emotions are on display and we tend to believe we have a certain grasp on the other person. Sometimes we become too comfortable. We think they will always be there for us through all tides of life, so we stop nurturing the relationship with the same effort.

This comfort can create expectations, and when those expectations aren’t met, disappointment seeps in. Take my best friend of 8 years and me, for example. Sometimes I become too complacent that I fail to realize I’m stepping on her toes or hurting her feelings without meaning to. Back when we were merely acquaintances, I was mindful of these nuances, but as time went on, I started to let my guard down. The familiarity and ease of our friendship made me less attentive that my indifferent behavior was affecting her mentally and emotionally.

Contrary to those whom we meet briefly through fleeting circumstances, these people enter our lives with no expectations to be met. There’s a certain lightness to such relationships—no pressure or strings attached. Perhaps that’s why these connections often end up lasting longer. They are not weighed down by demands or pretenses but rather grow organically. I guess at the end of the day it all boils down to how you water and maintain your relationships with your friends; because if you don’t, they can become shrivel and eventually battered. No friendship can thrive when it is neglected.

But say you have watered it, added the right nutrients, and cared for it, only to find that instead of blooming, it seems to wither away. Here’s the thing— sometimes a friendship is meant to end where it should. God knows you have squeezed out all the lessons and growth that relationship was meant to offer. And now, maybe it’s time for you to take your watering pot and nurture something new with someone else :)

[shafiqah-in-diaspora]

I'm Sorry But It Is That Deep

I don’t like it when people casually throw around the phrase, "it's not that deep." These days, it's said as if nothing holds real meaning behind it. But if they were to sit down and truly reflect, they'd realize that everything is that deep.

The job you choose to pursue, the company you keep around you, the books you read, the movies you watch, your daily habits, your conversations—every single one is interconnected. All of it shapes you, little by little—it shapes you in ways you might not even notice until much later.

So yes, it is that deep. If you still find it hard to grasp, let me break it down for you: The choices you make, no matter how small or insignificant they might seem at the time, ripple through your life. They influence your mindset, your future decisions, and even the way you perceive the world. The people you allow into your circle impact your values, your energy, and your motivation. The books you read and the content you consume shape your thoughts, your beliefs, and how you interpret reality. Even your smallest daily habits like the first thing you do when you wake up, set the tone for how you experience life.

Every conversation you have either builds or chips away at your character. Every moment, every action, whether intentional or not, creates the person you’re becoming. So yes, it is that deep.

[shafiqah-in-diaspora]

Skintiffic Missed the Mark

Skintiffic has quickly gained popularity due to its promise of science-backed skincare, formulated with cutting-edge technology. The products are formulated in Canada, with a focus on combining effective ingredients to target common skin concerns. Its sleek packaging and science-driven claims have captured the attention of skincare enthusiasts around the globe.

Much like everyone else, I too found myself “trapped” (for lack of a better word) by its compelling marketing tactics and the brand's strong presence in Watsons. The glowing reviews and endless recommendations piqued my curiosity, and I decided to give their products a try.

The Products I Tried:

5X Ceramide Barrier Moisturizer Gel 5X Ceramide Soothing Toner 5X Ceramide Serum Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++Peeling Lactic Acid Skin Renewal Exfoliating Serum Mugwort Purifying Micellar Water

Verdict: These products don’t even deserve a single star.

Before diving into my thoughts, please note that this review is strictly based on my own experience and opinion.

Unfortunately, it’s trash. After incorporating these products into my routine, my skin, which used to be so smooth, took a turn for the worse. I experienced breakouts, tiny bumps, and overall irritation.

What I had hoped would be a positive change for my skin ended up sending it on a downward spiral. Skintiffic’s products not only failed to deliver on their promises but also caused my skin to go downhill dramatically. Skintiffic technically is 100% marketing and 0% substance (again, this is purely my opinion). The hype was entirely misplaced. It not only broke me out but also caused issues for my sister, my aunt, and several others who tried it. It’s clear the brand puts more effort into its flashy image and staggering discounts than into creating effective, skin-friendly formulations.

Bye.

[shafiqah-in-diaspora]

Oh Japan, You Have My Heart

Unlike previous years, from 2023 onwards, I vowed to travel with purpose. My inaugural destination? The land of the rising sun— Japan. Why Japan, you ask? Well, as a child, my world was framed by a tiny 4-inch TV screen, and my sole entertainment came from watching cartoons. I remember looking up to those animated characters, drawing inspiration from their 勇気 , 優しさ及び 回復力 (yūki, yasashisa oyobi kaifukuryoku). The lessons I absorbed from my favorite fictional heroes influenced my now worldview and personal growth. Japan was not merely a trip; it was a meaningful journey to the very source of my childhood dreams.

Tokyo

My first stop was the city of Tokyo. While Tokyo may not be my favorite, it is undeniably a city of great landmarks and vibrant energy. When I say vibrant energy, I mean VIBRANT ENERGY. The nightlife here is wild! Truly a sensory overload of neon lights and bustling streets. Imagine the constant chitter-chatter of people around you, the thumping beats from various music stores, massive TV screens on buildings flash ads adding to the sensory extravaganza, and the colorful array of anime costumes mingling with some avant-garde fashion and plain old simple attire—like me, in my unassuming Malaysian “おばあちゃん” (obāchan) outfit, lol. Every few minutes, you hear the roar of planes flying overhead and the clatter of trains running on the railway tracks. It’s sensational!

But one memorable experience was visiting a koi pond at Senso-ji Temple, which is located in Asakusa, not far from the heart of the city. A bit quieter compared to the city's bustling core, but more aligned with my pace.

I recall an elderly gentleman standing there with great pride, enthusiastically explaining about the koi fish: "This is koi!"—as if to ensure everyone was aware of their significance. His English was limited, and I couldn’t help but wonder if his explanations would have been even more detailed if he were more fluent or if I had spoken Japanese. But either way, the whole situation was endearing and quite charming, especially knowing that koi fish are deeply rooted in the Japanese culture. I could almost picture a local uncle in Malaysia proudly introducing tapirs in a similar manner lol.

Kamakura

This city owns the depths of my heart. Kamakura isn't like any ordinary town in Japan; it has its own unique charm. Located just south of Tokyo in Kanagawa, this seaside gem lies along the coast of Sagami Bay and is often referred to by locals as the 'Kyoto of eastern Japan.'

My personal favorite is the Enoshima Electric Railway (I’m currently admiring the mini keychain and two hand-drawn postcards proudly displayed on my wall). The railway meanders through the town, making various picturesque pitstops by the sea—oh, the sea!—and passes through local school crossings and quaint crossroads. And, if you’re lucky, you might even catch distant glimpses of Mount Fuji.

Now, imagine this scenic journey with the sound of waves crashing against the shore, complemented by the distinctive chime of the Japanese train signaling as the crossing gates lower to let the train pass. God, it was truly magical— and I miss it dearly.

Warning: I later learned that Kamakura is susceptible to tsunamis due to its coastal location. So if you plan to visit, be sure to take precautions and stay updated on local safety guidelines. Please watch the video below to find out where the nearest rugged FC or steel-structured building is in case a tsunami hits.

Nikko

Nikko is my second personal favorite after Kamakura. It is located in Tochigi, in the mountainous region to the north of Tokyo, approximately 140 kilometers from the capital. Imagine seeing a lake perched on a mountain 1,269 meters above sea level, with a stunning view of other mountains (Mount Yusaka & Mount Hangetsu) in the distance?! SubhanAllah.

This lake, known as Lake Chuzenji, lies at the foot of Mount Nantai, Nikko's sacred volcano. The eruption of Mount Nantai once blocked the valley below, creating Lake Chuzenji just about 20,000 years ago.

I had hoped to take a boat ride on the lake, but unfortunately it was closed due to the extremely harsh temperatures. By late November the conditions up there were biting cold with icy winds that seemed to cut through everything. I could even see snowflakes swirling around, and winter hadn’t even officially arrived yet!

But even though the frigid weather and the closed boat ride were a letdown, the sheer beauty of Lake Chuzenji made me long to return. It was one of those moments where you’re left in awe, and you just know you have to come back to experience it all over again. If this is the beauty of the dunya, imagine what Jannah must be like.

[shafiqah-in-diaspora]

What Do You Want In Life?

I had a conversation with my manager today, and she said something along the lines of, "Ika, you're so indecisive. You don't know what you want in life. What do you want in life?" It was not anything I hadn’t heard before, but hearing it so bluntly made me pause. It felt like a brick had been thrown at me, and in that moment I realized just how heavy those words were. I have always known I was indecisive. I have never been one to have clear-cut answers about what I want, but to have someone call it out so directly felt different.

The truth is, I still don’t know what I want in life. And that realization alone is enough to send me spiraling. Do any of us really know? Or do we stumble along, figuring it out as we go?

I always feel like I am never doing enough. Like I need do to more. I recently received something I should have been proud of work-wise. Yet, when the congratulations came, I was already thinking, Is this really it? What’s next? It didn’t feel like enough. It never does. There is this constant tug inside me, a relentless pressure to keep going, to push harder, to be better—but for what? At what cost? What am I chasing? What am I trying to prove? And more importantly, to whom?

I wonder if others feel this way too—like you are constantly racing against an invisible clock, trying to tick off accomplishments without ever knowing what true fulfillment looks like. Is it ever enough? Or is this cycle of doing and achieving just a distraction from the bigger, scarier question: What do you really want in life?

Maybe that is why my manager’s comment struck such a chord. It was not just a statement about my indecisiveness. It pointed to something deeper. Maybe I am not ready to face it yet, and maybe that’s okay. But it is there now, lingering in the back of my mind.

I don’t have an answer right now. I am not even sure where to begin. But perhaps it’s less about having a definitive answer and more about the journey of discovering it. Maybe I need to learn to embrace the uncertainty and be okay with not knowing for a while.

After all, life doesn’t always come with clear answers. And maybe, just maybe, that’s the point.

[shafiqah-in-diaspora]

Accepting The Unbridgeable

They do not speak the way we were taught to speak. They do not walk the paths we have tread or follow the journeys we have experienced. They do not read the books we have read, nor do they share the same stories and lessons that have shaped us. They do not know the people we have met along the way, who have influenced our perspectives and molded our character. They do not think the way we think, nor do they see the world through the same lens we use. They do not fully grasp our religious beliefs or appreciate the cultural nuances that define us. They do not understand the intricacies of our language or the subtleties of our traditions.

More often than not, they fail to understand us in the ways we wish to be understood. Yet, the truth is, we do not fully understand them either. There will always be a gap between our experiences and theirs, a gap that perhaps can never be completely bridged. And perhaps the greatest truth is that we will never completely understand each other, and that's okay. It's hauntingly beautiful in a way. We just have to learn how to live with our differences.

[shafiqah-in-diaspora]

From Promise to Performance: The Raw

The Raw marks my first venture into local skincare brands. I had always been cautious about homegrown products, having encountered too many 'timbang kilo' options in the market. It’s no secret how risky those can be. But The Raw has quickly made its mark as a standout brand, earning a place not only in Malaysia’s beauty scene but also in my heart. It’s genuinely refreshing to see a local brand setting a new standard with its focus on quality and effectiveness.

Cleanser

Rough & Bumpy Ceramides Cleanser (Oily-Combination Skin)

Target concerns: Damaged skin barrier, sensitive skin.

Ingredients Overview: Aqua, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Propylene Glycol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Glycerin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Niacinamide (1%), Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NS, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AS, Ceramide AP, Hydrocotyle Asiatica (Centella Asiatica) Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis (Chinese Skullcap) Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol, 2.3 Butanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Cholesterol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Glyceryl Stearate, Dipropylene Glycol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Salicylic Acid (0.5%), Lactic Acid, Tetrasodium EDTA, Methylchloroisothiazolinone & Methylisothiazolinone.

Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I have worked my way through two bottles of this cleanser, and honestly, each one lasted a good 3-4 months, depending on how much I used. It has easily become one of my go-to cleansers, and I cannot deny how much I enjoyed it. But being a dry skin girlie I am, I quickly learned that using this on the same day as my exfoliator was a big no-no. The combination of both was just too much for my skin barrier to handle. Even on days I wasn’t exfoliating, I found I had to limit this cleanser to 2-3 times a week for it to work best without causing any irritation.

2. Hydrating Ceramides Cleanser (Dry Skin)

Target concerns: Damaged skin barrier, sensitive skin.

Ingredients Overview: Aqua, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Cetyl Alcohol, Propylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Niacinamide, Squalane, Butylene Glycol, Ceramide NP, Ceramide NS, Ceramide AS, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Hydrocotyle Asiatica (Centella Asiatica) Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis (Chinese Skullcap) Root Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Cholesterol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, Glyceryl Stearate, Caprylyl Glycol, 2.3 Butanediol, Dipropylene, Hydroxyacetophenone, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin.

Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This cleanser feels almost like applying a moisturizing lotion—just in the form of a cleanser. It is incredibly gentle and does a fantastic job of keeping my skin from feeling parched, which is absolutely essential. That said, between this cleanser and Nuuha’s, I lean towards Nuuha solely because of its foamy texture.

Moisturizer

Daily Ceramide Moisturizer

Target concerns: Damaged skin barrier.

Ingredients Overview: Water, Glycerin, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Vinyl Dimethicone, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Squalane, Allantoin, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Hydroxyacetophenone, Centella Asiatica Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Ceramide NP, Sodium Phytate, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Silica, Sorbitan Isostearate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ceteareth-25, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium PCA, Urea, Behenic Acid, Cholesterol, Ceramide NS, Trehalose, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide AP, Polyquaternium-51, Hexylene Glycol, Ceramide EOS, Caprooyl Phytosphingosine, Caprooyl Sphingosine, Caprylyl Glycol, Triacetin, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Potassium Hyaluronate, Dimethylsilanol Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, PEG-9 Diglycidyl Ether/Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate Dimethylsilanol, Propanediol, Sodium Benzoate.

Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

This gem is an absolute game-changer for anyone struggling with a compromised skin barrier. I cannot rave enough about how it has become an essential part of my skincare routine <3

From the moment you apply it, you will notice how effortlessly it glides on. Its non-greasy, lightweight formula feels like a breath of fresh air. There’s no heavy residue—just pure, nourishing goodness. What sets this moisturizer apart is its powerhouse blend of 7 types of ceramides, essential fatty acids, and cholesterol. My skin has never felt so balanced and supple, and I have genuinely seen a noticeable improvement in its texture and overall health.

For anyone grappling with dry, sensitive, or damaged skin, this moisturizer is nothing short of a miracle. It’s a must-have in your skincare arsenal. Trust me—your skin will thank YOU!

Other products from The Raw line which I have used:

Arbutin 2% Serum ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Strong Barrier Serum ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Niacinamide 5% Serum ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 20% Serum ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Acne Drying Spot Solution 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[shafiqah-in-diaspora]

A Kingdom Built from Books

When I think of Jannah, my imagination often runs wild. I don’t just picture serene gardens or rivers flowing beneath my feet—although I am sure those will be breathtaking. No, my vision of Jannah is far more, well, to put it plainly— fictional. It stretches beyond what reality has to offer.

I dream of massive kingdoms, each with its respective courts. If you were to visit my kingdom, the first thing you’ll notice is the sky. Dragons and griffins, massive and majestic, soar above, their wings cutting through the air in a dance that defies all reason. The seas around my kingdom are alive with mermaids performing aquatic ballets. In the distance, you'll see pirates singing raucously on the deck as they prepare to set sail, while on the shores, cyborgs, werewolves, vampires, and faes gear up for a grand battle with the venins.

Imagine elves with their ancient wisdom walking among us, their eyes gleaming with secrets from worlds we’ve only read about. Lycan warriors patrol the forests, guarding the borders of the kingdom. Every fantasy creature you could ever dream of, whether from ancient mythology or modern fiction, exists here.

But the real beauty? The characters. Not those watered-down versions you see in adaptations where the main character is hardly recognizable from the one you fell in love with on page. No, I am talking about real book characters, stepping out exactly as they were written. The fearless heroines, the flawed heroes, the villains you love to hate, all of them come to life in a way that does justice to their stories. Every corner of the kingdom is filled with characters living out their stories, the same ones that once pulled me in and transported me to far-off places.

Imagine walking through the courts and seeing Elizabeth Bennet in a lively debate with Mr. Darcy, or witnessing Katniss Everdeen stringing her bow as she watches over her district. You could sit down with Aragorn by the fire as he recounts tales of Middle Earth or watch as the Shadowhunters fight off demons at the gates. And if you listen closely, you might even hear the Suriel perched somewhere nearby, quietly spilling secrets and offering its infamous cryptic advice.

This is the Jannah I envisioned. (But surely it will be far grandeur, for isn’t Allah the one who designs?) And I cannot wait to welcome you into my world. The one and only place I can finally call home.