Being expensive does NOT mean better quality.
“To succeed in life you need three things; a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone.”
Dr. Hanan Sami Alsarraf, a 33-year-old Kuwaiti dermatologist, brings a refreshing perspective to the field with her passion for natural outcomes and a commitment to personalized care. Educated in Ireland and the UK, with extensive cosmetic training across multiple countries, Dr. Alsarraf’s journey reflects her dedication to excellence. In this interview, she dispels myths surrounding dermatological issues in Kuwait, advocates for a more natural approach to cosmetic procedures, and emphasizes the importance of individualized skincare. With a keen eye for emerging trends and a compassionate approach to patient care, Dr. Alsarraf is poised to make waves in the realm of dermatology.
Please introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Hanan Sami Alsarraf, I am a 33-year-old Kuwaiti dermatologist. I am married with 2 cats!
Tell us about your education.
I did my undergraduate education in Ireland and my postgraduate education in the UK. I also did my cosmetic training in various places, including the UK, USA, Canada, and UAE.
What made you choose a medical profession and why did you choose dermatology?
Honestly, at the time, I didn’t have clear goals in life other than wanting to go into something that would give me the option to make up my mind later as to what I truly wanted to do. I was attracted to the idea of being a doctor and practicing medicine, and I had my heart set on that, so I went for it! I chose dermatology because I love the cosmetic aspect of it, both in terms of skincare and non-invasive office procedures. I wanted to do something different in Kuwait with cosmetic practice and focus on more natural outcomes, so I went with that despite it being unpopular.
What is one popular myth about dermatology in Kuwait that you would most like to address?
That dark people cannot get skin cancer. This is absolutely not true! There are various types of skin cancer, and although those with lighter skin are at a higher risk, those with dark skin can still be diagnosed. Bob Marley is a famous example I always like to refer to; he sadly passed away due to a rare type of skin cancer after being misdiagnosed for years.
What is a current trend in dermatology that you find exciting, and what is another one that you think should go out of style?
Well, they go hand in hand, which is a more natural approach to cosmetic procedures. People are dissolving their overfilled lips and going for softer, subtler, and less noticeable lips. I am a big advocate for “less is more” when it comes to fillers.
What advice would you give to people in general for maintaining healthy skin?
Focus on what works for you, not what everyone else is talking about. Also, being expensive does NOT mean better quality.
‘Filler migration’ became a very controversial topic in Kuwait lately, why do you think this has become such a major problem now? And what advice would you give to a patient with migrated lip filler?
The biggest factor would be overfilling the area (usually lips), as well as using the incorrect type of filler. I always like to explain it this way: can you fill a gallon of water into a cup of water? Obviously not. The water has to go somewhere! A large amount of filler cannot stretch small lips to that extent; the filler will eventually move out of place. My advice would be to dissolve, and start fresh with high-quality filler and a more realistic and natural approach.
Many women now have come forward that their laser hair removal doesn’t work, while others argue back. What do you think are the factors that can cause each person’s results to vary?
The wavelength of the laser machine used, as well as the quality of the targeted hair. A more permanent hair removal method would be electrolysis, but I don’t see it widely available in Kuwait.
You talked briefly before about “procedure addiction” in your Madonna video, can you tell us more about this topic and whether you have personally dealt with a similar incident?
Unfortunately, I deal with this on a regular basis. It’s very important for a doctor to know when to say enough and to counsel the patient to possibly refer them to a psychologist for evaluation regarding body dysmorphic issues, which is when a person has problems seeing themselves the way others do.
Which skin product do you think is necessary and should be a part of everyone’s skincare routine?
A good facial cleanser that suits your skin type. Massively overlooked!
In your opinion, which product has been trending lately that you think is overrated? And which product is underrated?
Hyaluronic Acid Serums. They are fussy and expensive, with a massive error margin. I think people should spend more time and energy on active ingredients. Keep an eye out for Argireline, it’s just maybe the next big thing.
Since you get asked a lot about acne, what are some crucial key facts everyone struggling with acne should know about?
There isn’t always a clear reason why a person struggles with acne. Make-up is not necessarily your enemy, diet can sometimes be (avoid dairy, especially skimmed). There are many treatment options, so don’t be afraid to seek help.
Can you share with us some of your hobbies outside of your field?
I love to paint and design clothes. Otherwise, you’ll find me hanging around the house spending time with my family. I rarely have time nowadays with how busy I am.
What is your favorite travel destination and why?
The UK, always! I also love New York.
What are your plans for 2024?
I have many surprises planned, stay tuned!
Can you share your personal beauty and fitness regime?
I am very diligent when it comes to sun protection as well as a nightly retinol.
As for fitness, I used to be better, but currently I don’t have much time to go to the gym. So, I just try to get by with getting my 10,000 daily steps in, at least.
What is your favorite quote that you live by?
“To succeed in life you need three things; a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone.”
Your message for us at CP magazine
Thank you for this wonderful opportunity and keep up the amazing work.
Styling: FATIMA AL-JUTAILI (@f_jay23)
Creative Director: JAMEEL ARIF (@jameelarif)
Photographer: NAVAS (@navas_foto)
Hair & Makeup: MARIYA MATVEYCHUK (@mariya_matveychuk) at (@beautybarmm)
