The impact of traditional practices on skin health

Dear Sir,

Traditional skincare practices are deeply embedded in the world and especially in Moroccan culture, where remedies such as argan oil, mineral clays, rose water, and rosemary have been passed down through generations as expressions of identity, natural beauty, and holistic well-being.^[1,2] While modern dermo-cosmetic products have become increasingly prevalent worldwide, the coexistence of traditional remedies with contemporary treatments raises important questions about their efficacy, safety, and cultural significance. Although previous studies suggest beneficial properties – such as antioxidant and anti-aging effects of argan oil^[3] and the purifying action of mineral clays^[4] – scientific evidence remains fragmented, and adverse effects are often underreported. To address these gaps, we conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study using a structured online questionnaire disseminated through social media between February and July 2025. The survey collected demographic data, usage patterns of traditional remedies, perceived effectiveness, and reported side effects. A total of 582 valid responses were analyzed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software using descriptive statistics and associations between demographic variables and skincare practices, providing new insights into the real-world impact of traditional Moroccan skincare and its potential integration into evidence-based dermatology.

Among the 582 respondents, most were women (67.8%), with age peaks in the 18–30 and over-45 groups, and the majority lived in urban areas. Nearly half were already under dermatological treatment at the time of the survey. Overall, 60.2% reported using traditional remedies such as mineral clays, rose water, argan oil, and rosemary, mainly applied to the face, hair, and body to enhance radiance, delay aging, and promote hair growth, while intimate use was rare. Frequency of application varied, with 47.4% reporting occasional use and 24.2% using remedies 1–3 times/week. Perceived effectiveness was high (79.5%), but 17.2% experienced adverse effects, including redness, itching, burning, or hair loss, and only 6.5% consulted a dermatologist. Notably, most respondents (80.4%) combined traditional products with modern ones, while the high cost of dermatological care (reported by 76.5%) was a major barrier to professional consultation.

These findings confirm the enduring role of traditional remedies in Moroccan skincare, echoing ethnopharmacological studies that highlight the cultural trust in natural products such as argan oil and mineral clays.^[1,4] High user satisfaction suggests genuine cosmetic and therapeutic value, consistent with evidence of antioxidant, moisturizing, and anti-inflammatory effects.^[1,3] However, the prevalence of adverse reactions and the lack of medical consultation underscore safety concerns and the risks of unsupervised use. The hybrid approach adopted by most participants illustrates a pragmatic blending of tradition with modern science, yet socioeconomic barriers continue to reinforce reliance on home-based remedies. To optimize safety and accessibility, it is essential to foster dialog between traditional knowledge and dermatological science, validating natural products, educating the public, and integrating culturally relevant practices into evidence-based care.

Traditional skincare practices remain highly relevant, with widespread use, strong cultural value, and generally positive user perceptions. However, the occurrence of adverse effects and limited access to dermatological advice underscore the need for greater awareness, education, and scientific validation.

By bridging ancestral knowledge with modern dermatological science, healthcare systems can foster safer, more effective, and culturally grounded skincare solutions. Future research should further investigate the bioactive properties of these remedies and develop frameworks for their integration into evidence-based dermatology.