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7. Bahrain’s Pearl Facial is a GAMECHANGER!

With some of the best pearls in the world, Bahraini pearls are used not just for jewellery, but also as a spa element.

Before oil was found in Bahrain, it was largely a pearl trading country relying on divers who went about 30 metres deep into the ocean, got back oysters and extracted their pearls. The essence of the pearl is still not lost on Bahrain. With some of the best pearls in the world, Bahraini pearls are used not just for jewellery, but also as a spa element. This traditional method of creating a glow to the skin is now found at some of the best spas and wellness retreats across the world.

When I travelled to Bahrain, my tour guide Aayat Al Habib, a pearl diver shared stories about how she has dived 30 meters deep into the ocean to extract pearls and has stored them at home. The biggest pearl is called Dana and some pearls can be as expensive as USD 1 million as well. It is of little surprise that Bahraini pearls are also being showcased at the National Museum of Bahrain as well as a special museum curated specifically for pearls. The Pearl Museum showcases high end pearl inlays in jewelry and watches. It is of little secret that pearl treatments costing hundreds to thousands of dollars (based on the quality of the pearl) can not only give a glow to the skin but also heal it.

Pearl extract is created by grinding the pearl and then exposing it to a process called hydrolysis where it is treated with enzymes and purified. This extract is then applied on the skin for giving it a luscious glow. Pearl extract is also known for healing the skin and exfoliating it if used as a mask. Pearl extract is nutrient rich, acne free and adds a hydrating element.

While pearl facial does not have any side effects, it might lead to allergies for some people when used in powdered form. It is always good to conduct a patch test, apply the extract on a small part of the skin and see if there is a reaction before applying it everywhere. Some pearl facials also involve pearl moisturisation post the facial. The pearl extract is mixed with moisturizing cream and can create a soothing impact. The Bahraini pearl facial can also be done at home - by creating a formulation of pearl extract by grinding a real pearl and using it as the base for skincare.