Latest from Cosmopolitan ME
Cosmopolitan ME
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Cosmopolitan ME
GTK the woman sculpting the Middle East's most fabulous faces: Dr. Dragana Spica
Instagram filters, you've met your match. With 20 years of sculpting the world's most discreetly fabulous transformations (including Dubai's elite), plastic surgeon Dr. Dragana Spica is the woman behind the best 'Did she or didn't she?' glow-ups. While everyone else is chasing plumped-to-the-gods lips and frozen foreheads, her superpower? Making work look like you woke up like this. (Spoiler: You didn't – and that's the magic.) Speaking to Cosmo Middle East, Dr. Spica reveals all: The under-the-radar treatments worth your dirhams (and the overhyped ones she refuses to perform), the three non-negotiable products in her bag, and why some trends deserve to stay on TikTok. Consider this your backstage pass to glowing up without looking like you tried. CosmoME: Why plastic surgery, and what's the most unexpected lesson you've learned? Dr. Dragana: Art was always my favourite subject growing up, it taught me to see beauty in every detail. Plastic surgery felt like a natural extension of that passion. The most unexpected lesson? That sometimes, saying 'no' to a procedure is the most powerful form of care. Patients often come back grateful, realising that what they initially wanted wasn't truly right for them. CosmoME: What's the biggest misconception clients walk in with? Dr. Dragana: That plastic surgery is a one-size-fits-all solution. It's deeply personal. My goal is to enhance natural beauty, not to create replicas of trends or celebrities. CosmoME: Can you share a career 'pinch me' moment? Dr. Dragana: Becoming Medical Director at Aesthetics by King's College Hospital London in Dubai was such a milestone – leading this visionary team in one of the world's most exciting cities still feels surreal. But the real 'pinch me' moments came after working with everyone from celebrities to everyday clients, and all of them trusting me with their transformations. At the end of the day, though, what keeps me grounded is knowing that whether it's a subtle tweak or a full glow-up, I get to play a part in how people see themselves. That's why I love what I do. CosmoME: What's your ultimate holy grail treatment? Dr. Dragana: A 'liquid facelift' using collagen-stimulating injections. It's subtle, non-invasive, and a fantastic glow-up option. CosmoME: What's one trend you'd never spend your dirhams on? Dr. Dragana: Overfilled lips or exaggerated facial features. Beauty should be balanced and timeless, not trend-driven! Glow Recipe Glass Balm Lip Treatment for Shine Hydration BYOMA SPF 50 face fluid Gucci Brume de Beauté Mist CosmoME: Can you name three non-negotiable products in your handbag right now? Dr. Dragana: 1) A hydrating lip balm infused with peptides – not just for softness, but to support collagen production and keep lips youthful. I use Glow Recipe or Laneige. 2) Broad-spectrum SPF with antioxidants – it's my daily armour against UV damage and premature ageing, protecting skin at the DNA level. I love the BYOMA SPF 50 Face Fluid. 3) A mini facial mist enriched with hyaluronic acid and growth factors – it's like a collagen-boosting refresh on the go, keeping my skin plump, radiant, and resilient throughout the day. The Gucci Brume de Beauté Mist is amazing. CosmoME: What's your personal skincare splurge and save? Dr. Dragana: Splurge: Collagen injections, without question. I rely on Nithya Collagen Treatments because they go beyond surface-level improvements – they actively stimulate the body's natural collagen production. What makes them truly special isn't just wrinkle reduction or temporary plumping, but how they restore skin's fundamental elasticity and structure. The results deliver this beautiful, natural-looking radiance – that kind of refreshed, youthful glow that makes people wonder what you're doing differently. It's one of the smartest long-term investments in skin health you can make. Save: I'm a big believer in keeping your basics simple and effective like a gentle, hydrating cleanser. You don't need to spend a fortune for your skin to feel clean and calm. Anything that respects your skin barrier and keeps it balanced is a win in my book! CosmoME: If you could ban one beauty myth on social media, what would it be? Dr. Dragana: That everyone needs filler – I'd ban it in a heartbeat! Social media has glamourised volume to the point where people forget what true beauty is: balance, structure, and skin integrity. Filler isn't a universal fix, and when misused, it can distort rather than enhance. I've seen stunning faces lose their natural charm chasing trends that were never meant for them. Supplied CosmoME: Beyond the clinic, what's your 'unwind and recharge' ritual? Dr. Dragana: It's all about connection and comfort. Being with family is equally grounding; their support and laughter remind me of what truly matters. Whether it's a quiet evening at home or a walk outdoors, these moments help me reset, stay present, and feel my absolute best inside and out. I love spending time with my dogs, their energy and unconditional love are the perfect antidote to a busy day! CosmoME: Give us the scoop! What's the next big thing on your radar that you're obsessed with? Dr. Dragana: Personalised regenerative treatments – they're a total game-changer. We're now harnessing the body's own healing power to rebuild and rejuvenate. No foreign ingredients, just pure biological magic. We're talking collagen biostimulation, stem cell therapies, and tissue remodelling that go way beyond surface-level fixes. It's not just skincare anymore – it's like hitting the reset button on your cells. I think it's going to completely redefine how we approach ageing, healing, and that lit-from-within glow we all want. CosmoME: If you weren't a plastic surgeon, what would your dream job be? Dr. Dragana: An interior designer. That's always been a dream of mine, and it totally aligns with my love for detail, symmetry, and creativity. Going through a cosmetic research hole? Read about halal botox next.
Cosmopolitan ME
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Cosmopolitan ME
Here are the trending Sunglass Brands the IT. Girlies are wearing this summer
Alright girlies, whether you're tanning by the beach or going for lunch with your besties, these sunnies are a staple in every girl's wardrobe 😎. Not only do they elevate your look, but they also add that effortlessly chic finishing touch that says stylish and unbothered. Khwaab Via @ Khwaab was recently launched by the iconic Pakistani influencer Zozo and is already turning heads and rewriting the eyewear rulebook. Khwaab meaning 'dream' in Urdu, was designed to turn your everyday look into a full main character moment. With styles like Aftaab and Junoon (yes, even the names sound like poetry), these sunnies drop and sell out faster than your iced coffee melts. ❤️ Le Specs Via @lespecs If there's one brand that knows how to serve It-girl energy without draining your bank account, it's Le Specs. Beloved by everyone from Kourtney Kardashian to your trendiest friend, their sunnies are the ultimate mix of playful, polished, and paparazzi-ready. Whether you're into oversized lenses, Y2K throwbacks, or sleek cat-eyes that scream 'don't text him,' they are cute, cool and an on the go easy pick up. 🫦 Miu Miu Via @racilllll If you're in the mood to dial up the drama, Miu Miu is calling. These sunnies are made for those who don't believe in 'too much.' Miu Miu shades bring the drama in the best way possible with big lenses, flirty shapes, and unapologetic energy. They're not just for blocking the sun, they're for making statements. 🩵 DMY Studios Via @dmystudios DMY Studios is your effortlessly cool bestie who always looks chic without trying. Worn by Hailey Bieber, Bella Hadid, Molly Mae and just about every model-off-duty, these retro-inspired frames are all about quiet confidence. They're the kind of sunnies you throw on with a slick bun and a latte in hand on the way to the airport, and somehow still look like you're headed to a shoot. Subtle? Yes. Forgettable? Never. ✈️ QUAY Via @quayaustralia Born in Australia and loved by just about every pop princess and reality TV babe (hi, Love Island), QUAY has bold frames and tinted lenses that give 'I'm not trying too hard but I still slayed the streets' vibes. Think weekend brunch, driving through golden hour, or stealing the spotlight in a viral TikTok. QUAY sunnies are all streamlined chic with a twist of fun, perfect for the kind of girl whose aesthetic is always subtly on point. 📷 Sunglasses are fun and flirty, but can also be spiritual for this girly.
Cosmopolitan ME
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Cosmopolitan ME
Move over matcha. Hojicha is the new drink in town
We all know and love matchas, but has it had its time? We've sipped, posted, and even made it ourselves, but is it time to make a little room on your caffeine roster? Hojicha is here. This drink is a roasted green tea with a toasted, nutty sweet vibe that feels like a calming hug and an energy boost all in one sip. It's the kind of drink that whispers happy nervous system. While matcha has that grassy and punchy taste, hojicha is smoother and mellower. It's also naturally lower in caffeine (so, no caffeine jitters), but still high in antioxidants, which makes it perfect for that 4 PM dip or your evening wind-down ritual. Ready to switch it up? Whether you're ordering it iced or with oat-milk, hojicha is officially the new cool drink in town. Hojicha is popping up in some of our fave cafes around town. And honestly, we're obsessed. If you want to give it a try, then these are your spots: Location: Otaku, Building 7A, Dubai Design District. Opening Hrs: Daily, 7:00 AM – 11:30 PM. Location: The Matcha Tokyo, The Beach, Jumeirah Beach Residence. Opening Hrs: Sunday – Thursday, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, Friday & Sunday, 8:00 AM – 1:00 AM. Location: Avantcha Tea Bar, Kunooz 6th street, Warehouse 19, Al Manara St, Al Quoz 1. Opening Hrs: Monday – Saturday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM. Location: Pekoe, Alserkal Avenue, Warehouse 59 17th St, Al Quoz. Opening Hrs: Daily, 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Location: Maison Cha Cha, Burj Crown, R02 Emaar Blvd, Downtown Dubai. Opening Hrs: Daily, 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM. Friday & Saturday, 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM. Location: Pekoe, Al Mina Rd, Port View Building 10, shop no 23, Al Mina St – Al Mina. Opening Hrs: Daily, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM. Trying to escape the heat? Check out these indoor restaurants.
Cosmopolitan ME
2 days ago
- Business
- Cosmopolitan ME
Aisha Hossain's Selhaya abayas are all you will ever need
Summer looks better in silk Summer demands more than beauty. It calls for breathability, weightlessness, and clothes that feel good on the skin, even when temperatures hit 40°C. That's where Selhaya comes in: a British-born luxury abaya Maison that proves elegance and comfort don't have to be opposites. Founded by London-based entrepreneur Aisha Hossain, Selhaya is intentionally slow, quietly powerful, and rooted in purpose. It wasn't created to follow trends. It was built for women who want to dress with meaning and invest in pieces that last. Why silk is the only fabric you need this season Most mass-market abayas use synthetic blends like nida or polyester satin. These may look smooth online, but in real life? They trap heat, cling to the body, and create discomfort in warm climates. Selhaya works exclusively with 100% pure silk or silk-linen blends, natural fibres that are thermoregulating, hypoallergenic, and effortlessly breathable. Silk keeps the body cool in heat, warm in cooler air, and feels light against the skin. The difference isn't just visible. It's wearable. Synthetic satin: Shiny, stiff, clings to skin, traps moisture. Selhaya silk: Soft, flowing, naturally breathable. Designed to age beautifully. This isn't just fabric. It's a philosophy. Fashion that slows down on purpose Selhaya doesn't do fast drops or seasonal churn. Each collection is released as a limited capsule, drawn from emotion, memory, or a place that shaped the founder's worldview. Pieces are designed in-house, refined by hand, and produced in small batches only. Instead of click-and-buy, clients are invited to register their interest. This registry model slows down the shopping experience and encourages women to choose with care. The result? Fewer, better garments, pieces that stay with you. Supplied via Aisha Hossain, Founder of Selhaya Modest wear that moves with you From quiet reflection to milestone travels, Selhaya robes are worn for meaningful moments. They aren't just outfits. They become part of your personal archive. Every order arrives with a collector card and thoughtful packaging, a tactile reminder that luxury isn't about display. It's about how something makes you feel. Meet Aisha Hossain, the woman behind the house Aisha didn't come from fashion. She came from a career in commercial policy. And that's exactly what makes Selhaya different. The Maison is founder-led, self-funded, and built on values that extend far beyond style. From fabric sourcing to packaging, she's involved in every decision. Selhaya also gives back quietly. Five percent of every sale supports orphan care, gifted in the client's name. It's not a campaign. It's simply part of how the Maison moves: with intention. Supplied A new way to think about luxury Selhaya isn't just about modest fashion. It's about changing the way clothing is valued. In a world that pushes quantity, Selhaya champions quality, presence, and purpose. One great piece. One strong choice. That's what modern elegance looks like. So when summer arrives and you need something that breathes, flows, and holds meaning, start with silk. Start with Selhaya. ITP Media Group newsroom and editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.
Cosmopolitan ME
4 days ago
- Health
- Cosmopolitan ME
Aesthetics 101: Your no-BS guide to botox & beyond
Welcome to your jargon-free, hype-free breakdown of the most common aesthetic treatments – because let's be real, between TikTok trends and influencer endorsements, it's hard to know what's actually worth it. We're getting into aesthetics earlier than ever, but is that a good idea? As Dr. Samia, Aesthetic Doctor at Browns & Co. tells us,'We've definitely noticed a rise in Gen-Z clients showing interest in aesthetic treatments, particularly preventative Botox and subtle enhancements like lip filler or skin boosters. While millennials were once the primary age group driving the 'tweakment' trend, Gen-Z is now stepping into the aesthetic space, often in their early twenties or even late teens.' Dr. Abir Alafifi, GP Practitioner in functional medicine and aesthetics at ZEN Healthcare, confirms the social media effect: 'Social media plays a massive role as this generation has grown up seeing influencers and celebrities openly talk about their treatments, which has helped normalise aesthetics.' But she warns: 'Starting earlier than necessary can lead to overuse. The best results are always subtle and natural.' Word. The mindset shift? Dr. Asima Mir, Aesthetic Specialist at Orskin, explains: 'There's been a noticeable shift – we're seeing more Gen-Z clients not just curious about treatments, but actually booking them in their early 20s. They view aesthetics through a wellness lens, as self-investment rather than 'fixing' something. The key is starting at the right time, for the right reasons – not social media pressure. Everyone ages differently. Your skin's needs in your 20s will be very different from your 30s or 40s.' Dr. Samia's advice gets straight to the point: 'My top piece of advice is not to rush it. Just because you can access aesthetic treatments early doesn't mean you should.' So before you book that clinic appointment, here's exactly what each treatment does, who it's for, and what to expect. You and your face can thank us later. Botox: The wrinkle-freeze secret Botox is a purified protein (botulinum toxin type A). There are a few different brands out there, but they all do the same thing. Science bit: It blocks nerve signals to muscles, preventing repetitive motions that cause lines (like forehead wrinkles from raising brows). Fun fact? You can inject it pretty much anywhere – it can even treat migraines and excessive sweating! How it's done: Tiny injections target specific muscles, and it's super quick. You might have some mild redness but there's no downtime – just best to avoid workouts or extreme heat for 24 hours. Best for: Prevention – Late 20s+ when those frown lines start lingering. It's also amazing for correction. Dynamic wrinkles (crow's feet, forehead lines…) be gone. Avoid: Starting before mid-20s (your face needs natural movement!) Dermal fillers: Plump & sculpt Fun fact – fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, which our bodies produce naturally. Science bit: The HA in filler binds to the water already in our skin to plump and add volume. How it's done: Numbing cream can be applied before it's injected. There can be some swelling (particularly when done on lips) but this dies down after a few days. Best for: Doing what its name suggests – 'filling' and enhancing areas that need more volume, eg. lips, cheeks, jawline, under-eyes, or nasolabial folds – smoothing out wrinkles and plumping in the process. Avoid: Overfilling – natural-looking results take skill. Skin boosters: The ultimate hydration hack Next-level hydration: Hyaluronic acid (like in fillers) but injected more superficially to plump from within. Science bit: HA holds 1,000x its weight in water – these injections act like an internal moisturiser to literally make you glow from within. How it's done: Multiple tiny injections across the area being treated (minimal pain) after a numbing cream is applied. You might have some redness and bumps, but these go down super fast. Three or more sessions are recommended for lasting effects. Best for: Dehydrated skin (even if you drink water!) and lacklustre complexions. Amazing for a pre-event glow. Avoid: Expecting filler-like volume – this is about texture, not structure. Exosomes: Your skin's text message Tiny 'messenger' bubbles from stem cells loaded with proteins and growth factors direct your skin to heal itself. Science bit: They're the ultimate multitaskers: calming inflammation while giving your skin's natural collagen and elastin a serious boost. The result? Smoother texture, balanced tone, and renewed bounce – with visible improvements that keep coming for weeks after. How it's done: After microneedling or laser (those tiny channels create superhighways for deeper absorption), an exosome serum gets pressed or infused into skin. Expect a very temporary rosy flush. Best for: Post-acne marks, pigmentation, post-procedure recovery, and anti-ageing. Avoid: Skipping the prep step No microneedling/laser first? The exosomes can't penetrate deeply enough to work. PRP: The 'vampire' facial Gross but cool, this treatment uses your own blood to boost your beauty. Science bit: Your blood's platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a goldmine of growth factors that supercharge collagen production and tissue repair. How it's done: Your blood is taken, popped into a centrifuge to spin it (to isolate the PRP), and then it's either injected or microneedled into skin. You'll be red for a day or two after. Best for: Acne scars, dullness, and hair thinning (yes, it works for scalps too!). Avoid: One-and-done. Three or more sessions are ideal. Morpheus8: The microneedling powerhouse Morpheus8 is your skin's ultimate power couple: microneedling meets radiofrequency for next-level remodelling. It delivers RF energy deep into your skin's foundation for tighter texture, reduced pores, faded scars, and snatched contours. Science bit: Tiny needles create micro-channels while zapping skin with RF heat – a double whammy that tricks your skin into repair mode. Cue a collagen and elastin boom. How it's done: You'll need numbing cream (it's not painless), but the pinch is quick – just plan for 2-3 days of redness and mild puffiness (ice rollers welcome). A handheld device glides over skin to deliver RF energy and adjustable needle depths. Best for: Skin tightening, large pores, and acne scars. Avoid: Sun exposure after – hyperpigmentation risk! And DIY RF devices – this requires medical-grade precision. Polynucleotides: The DNA-level skin repair Aka the 'salmon sperm facial'. Wait, what?! Yes, you read that right. PNs are purified DNA fragments from fish sperm that boost skin repair. Science bit: They act like messengers to your skin cells, signalling your skin to produce more collagen and elastin and repair damaged tissue at a cellular level. They also help boost hydration by attracting water molecules. Think of them as a 'reset button'. How it's done: Injected or applied via microneedling (2-3 sessions needed). Expect to be numbed first. Best for: Acne scars, post-laser healing, and younger, fresher looking skin. Avoid: Expecting instant results – it's a long-game treatment. BBL (BroadBand Light): The Instagram filter IRL BBL is basically IPL's smarter younger sibling. But, unlike old-school IPL, today's BBL doesn't just treat damage – it can actually rewind your skin's genetic clock. (Yes, really.) Science bit: This broadband light treatment uses filtered wavelengths to target melanin, haemoglobin, and collagen. Simply put? It zaps pigmentation, redness, and signs of ageing. How it's done: A magic wand-like device delivers precision light pulses that shatter melanin (bye, dark spots) and haemoglobin (see ya, redness) while giving your deeper skin a collagen-boosting warm-up. It feels like a tiny rubber band snapping across your skin – quick and totally manageable, with no downtime. A course of 3+ sessions is recommended for maximum results. Best for: Sunspots, redness and rosacea, and early signs of ageing. Avoid: Skipping SPF – it's non-negotiable. Looking for some salon recommendations? Click here.
