South Asian Beauty Must-Haves: Expert-Approved Products

When it comes to beauty, South Asian skin has unique needs, and who better to guide us than industry insiders? From radiant skincare to flawless makeup, these beauty experts share their go-to products for achieving that wedding-day glow.

1. Skincare Essentials for a Luminous Base

Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream (£67 at Sephora)“My holy grail product leading up to my wedding was the Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream. Infused with Japanese purple rice and antioxidants, it delivers deep hydration and a luminous finish—perfect for South Asian brides juggling multiple wedding events.” – Sundas Hussain, Content Creator

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads (£21 at Cult Beauty) “These are like a facial on the go! The lactic acid helps with hyperpigmentation and post-breakout scarring—key concerns for many South Asians. Plus, the exfoliation smooths texture, creating a flawless base for makeup.” – Priyanka Ganjoo, Founder of KULFI

Weleda Skin Food Cream (£8.33 at Amazon, £11.21 at Sephora) “My makeup artist used Weleda Skin Food Cream as a base on my big day, and I’ve used it ever since! It provides a dewy, hydrated glow under makeup and is incredibly affordable.” – Salaha Ashraf, Content Creator

Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion (£10 at Amazon) “As a frequent traveler, this is my go-to moisturizer in any climate. It deeply hydrates without leaving a filmy layer—perfect as a makeup base too.” – Maryam Kureshi, Founder of DYOT

Skinceuticals C E Ferulic (£165 at LookFantastic) “This Vitamin C serum is a game-changer for South Asian skin, tackling redness and hyperpigmentation without irritation. It’s my must-have for a more radiant complexion before a big event.” – Nina Gill, Beauty PR

2. Makeup Staples for a Wedding-Ready Glow

MAC Pro Longwear Concealer (£27 at Boots) “Finding a brand that truly celebrates South Asian beauty is important. MAC’s Pro Longwear Concealer in NC30 is my go-to for daytime bridal looks.” – Diipa Büller-Khosla, Founder of indē wild

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer (£27 at Boots) “A long-lasting base is crucial for weddings. South Asian under-eyes can be darker, so this concealer brightens and lifts beautifully.” – Anita Kaushal, Founder of Mauli Rituals

Huda Beauty Faux Filter Color Corrector (£26 at Boots) “Color correction is essential! My skin is prone to hyperpigmentation, and this peach-toned corrector was a lifesaver during my month-long wedding celebrations.” – Sameeha Shaikh, Beauty Writer

Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation (£27.65 at Boots) “This foundation is an oldie but a goodie! Its shade range is excellent for South Asian skin, and it stays flawless for 15+ hours—even through dancing and happy tears.” – Unsah Malik, Global Beauty Director, Karla Otto

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation SPF 15 (£34.50 at Boots) “The shade range gets the undertones right for brown skin, and the semi-matte finish photographs beautifully without settling into creases.” – Aamirah Essof, Content Creator 

3. Glow & Finish: Setting the Look

Chanel Baume Essential Multi-Use Glow Stick (£38 at Sephora) “For an effortless glow throughout the day, this multi-use stick is perfect for subtle touch-ups that enhance natural radiance.” – Shivani Sharma, Editorial Photographer & Content Creator

Live Tinted Hueglow (£38 at Cult Beauty) “For wedding season, I love dabbing this on exposed areas. It adds a beautiful sheen that highlights features without staining outfits.” – Simran Anand Pahwa, Founder of BySimran

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Filter Setting Spray (£32 at Charlotte Tilbury) “This setting spray kept my makeup intact through all my wedding functions—yes, even during my emotional bidaai (bridal farewell).” – Naima Begum, Founder of Dhana London & Content Creator

4. Hair & Styling Must-Haves

Got2b Glued 4 Brows & Edges (£4.25 at Amazon, £5.85 at Boots) “South Asian bridal hairstyles can be intricate, and this styling gel tames flyaways effortlessly for a sleek, polished look.” – Fatima Patel, Bridal Hair Stylist

Hershesons The Multitasker (£249.62 at hershesons.com) “Good hair is a confidence booster! This all-in-one tool helps me create everything from mermaid waves to glamorous curls—perfect for wedding events.” – Humeara Mohamed, Beauty Journalist

Bridal Beauty That Lasts - These expert-approved picks ensure that South Asian brides and beauty lovers alike achieve a flawless, radiant look that lasts from the first ceremony to the final dance. Whether prepping for a wedding or simply looking for beauty must-haves, these tried-and-tested products are essentials!