A tourist going to Tunis asks the question "What to bring with you from Tunisia?", "How to surprise relatives and friends?" There are a lot of opportunities, vacationers are bringing in: rugs, items of national clothing, ceramics, leather goods, jewelry, including gold, spices and much more. It's a good idea to buy cosmetics and perfumes. The editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" offer you an overview of Tunisian cosmetics - what to bring with you from Tunisia.
Content
Cosmetics from Tunisia: general information
Benefits of Tunisian cosmetics
The tourism industry in Tunisia is gaining momentum every year. Along with agriculture, it is the main source of income for the economy. Many unique souvenirs and gifts are easy to find. Women are bringing cosmetics, and Tunisian cosmetics and perfumery are growing in popularity because of their vast benefits.
Advantages:
- It is made only from high quality natural ingredients;
- Affordable price compared to cosmetics from the United Arab Emirates or Morocco;
- Based on centuries-old folk traditions;
- The hot climate also affects the final result: among the components there are rare African plants;
- There are many positive reviews, since cosmetics based on natural ingredients give a visible effect;
- Original design: Arabic drawings, photos and calligraphy on packages.
All this makes Tunisian cosmetics special and unique.
Disadvantages:
- As a rule, short shelf life, since there are no preservatives and other chemicals in the composition;
- Outside Tunisia, these cosmetics can only be found at inflated prices. It is profitable to buy in the country of origin, but not every vacation is spent in Tunisia;
- There are many unusual ingredients unknown to European and Asian buyers, so it is difficult to predict allergic reactions or individual intolerances.
Basic ingredients of cosmetics from Tunisia
In general, Tunisian cosmetics are not so diverse, with just a few basic natural ingredients that are used for most products. And decorative cosmetics are used to a minimum and not in public, since the way of life is Muslim, and the climate is hot. Not as large a selection of tools as we would like. In addition, the chemical industry is not developed in the country.
And what really pleases is the organization of thalassotherapy. Almost all hotels, even those with small stars, are equipped with SPA centers. The services are very different: medical masks, healing wraps, rare massage and relaxation technologies. This attracts more and more tourists to Tunisian resorts.
Olive oil
Tunisia is in the top five countries for the export of olive oil. The products are really high quality, as no pesticides or chemicals are used.This is explained, among other things, by the fact that the country is poor and cannot use existing technologies. But for the consumer, this is definitely a plus.
There are many cosmetics based on it. The value of olive oil for cosmetology is in a large amount of a moisturizing element squalene and vitamins that neutralize free radicals. Other properties: antibacterial, softening, renewing the epidermis, protecting from the sun's rays.
Argan oil
Its strength lies in its anti-aging effect. It is a natural antioxidant and antiseptic. The average price for a bottle of 50 milliliters is about $ 4 or 260 rubles. This is not a local product, it is not produced in Tunisia, but is brought from Morocco. Nevertheless, it is widely used in Tunisian cosmetology as part of creams, shampoos, masks and balms, as well as independently. For example, local women apply argan oil to their hair before every shampoo.
Black cumin
This plant is used in cooking as a spice, it is added to pastries, bread, sauerkraut, and tea. It is appreciated because it does not irritate the stomach lining. Healing properties are diverse: diuretic, carminative, choleretic. Black cumin oil is used in food to cure diabetes, hepatitis and cancer diagnoses.
In cosmetology, it fights against skin irritations, both mild and complicated: with dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema.
Prickly pear
Opuntia is a cactus. Blooms beautifully. It grows not only in Tunisia. The locals have learned to use it one hundred percent. The fruits are eaten, they taste pleasant and juicy, like strawberries. Make wine. In cosmetics, it is prized for its highly moisturizing and visible anti-aging functions. The moisturizing properties are so strong that the skin can easily withstand the scorching sun without drying out. And rejuvenation using cactus extract has been verified by scientific research and the results are the most positive.
Opuntia is processed into extract, extract, oil. Fresh juice can be added to any creams and masks. Beauty products containing prickly pear extract whiten the skin, remove age spots, moisturize and soften the skin. Strengthens hair and relieves dandruff when it comes to shampoos and balms.
Seaweed
It has been known for its beneficial properties since ancient times. Algae is a product close to the body, its composition is close to blood plasma. Cosmetics based on algae saturates and enriches the body with vitamins and minerals, significantly improves the appearance, restores damaged skin areas, awakening natural regeneration. You need to look for cosmetics with algae for cellulite, excess weight, tired and dull skin, stretch marks and early wrinkles. Algae are sold independently and as part of creams and masks, as well as in dry and pasty form.
There is a lot of iodine in the composition of algae, so they are used very carefully for diseases of the thyroid gland and kidneys.
Clay
The most popular cosmetic product in Tunisia is ghassoul or tfal. It is a sea clay with many active minerals. Tfal is any sea clay. And ghassoul is only of volcanic origin, formed by the forces of nature about 50 million years ago.
Masks, creams, shampoos are made with clay. Sold by itself in jars of different weights. After contact with water, it foams well. The advantageous difference from soaps and shampoos is that ghassoul retains the water-fat layer, does not damage the structure of the skin or hair, and does not irritate. Especially indicated for oily skin, as it tightens pores, cleanses, restores balance to the skin.
Mud
Black mud is mined from the bottom of the sea, has warming properties, therefore, ointments, creams, and wrapping masks are made from it, intended for weight loss. Silt sea mud is the most unique among all the others. They contain different groups of vitamins, iodine, amino acids and components similar to hormones. Muds come in different colors, their properties depend on this. In Tunisia, black mud is widespread, it accelerates blood circulation and drains the lymph, and reduces the number of skin rashes.
Other ingredients
Other typical popular components of Tunisian cosmetics include coconut, rose or peach oil, shea butter, sand from the Sahara desert, which is added to scrubs as an exfoliating element.
Top manufacturers
Which brand is better? Diamanta, Cristalux, MD Naturkosmetic, Nihel, Rojanet, Maison de senteurs, Le Petit Olive, Hemani, Maisons Naturelle, Soleil d'Orient, LightINbox, Camel Baraka Mark, Reona, Olive & Cintron and others.
Many of the above are produced in cooperation with French firms, since Tunisia was a French colony for a long time.
AromaCap's plant and essential oils are certified in France.
A good selection of Tunisian cosmetics only in the country of origin, Tunisia. In other countries, it is problematic to buy it, even online, and if you can find it, then the prices are too high. In runet, the choice is small, there are websites of manufacturers Bio Relax, Lagune and Le secret. But you can find individual ingredients of Tunisian cosmetics, as there is a sufficient selection of products from Morocco on the Internet. For example, argan oil or volcanic clay, however, of Moroccan origin, can be easily found on many sites selling organic cosmetics.
Where to shop in Tunisia
Shopping in Tunisia is done in numerous souvenir shops and fairs, shopping centers and local bazaars.
The largest supermarket chains are Monoprix and General, where you can buy everything you need, from food to clothing, including cosmetics.
In addition, there is an immeasurable number of private shops and shops selling food and items of daily need.
As for cosmetics, high-quality cosmetics are purchased not only in pharmacies and specialized stores, but buying there, you can avoid many problems and prevent mistakes when choosing.
You can also find interesting things in the shops at hotels, and what is needed right now and urgently. But it is known that prices are high there and it is better to go shopping away from the tourist area. However, an exception can be made for cosmetics. Almost all spa salons at hotels offer for sale those professional cosmetics that are used for procedures. If you liked the funds and the price suits you, then you can safely purchase and extend thalassotherapy at home.
One of the characteristic features of Tunisia is trade fairs. Each city has its own day for this event. For example, in Monastir it is Friday, and in Sousse it is Sunday. Usually these fairs end by lunchtime.
There is a specialized perfumery market, Souk El Attarine, where there is a large selection of cosmetics.
They sell all existing aromatic oils both in pure form and in creams, masks and shampoos. This bazaar has existed in the city of Tunis since the 13th century and from the very beginning is focused on the sale of incense.
The most famous shopping destination in Tunisia is Medina. Medina is found in all major cities; it is the territory of the old city, surrounded by stone walls. Just like in other Arab countries, there are many shops and stalls with local souvenirs, food, handicrafts. This is a kind of open-air museum. You can visit the Medina without even buying anything, just to see, it is a magnificent peculiar tourist attraction. As a rule, in these oriental bazaars, sellers trade in one place from generation to generation, value their reputation, so it is there that the goods are of high quality, you can safely buy cosmetics.
Buying Tips
Bargaining is a must. It's part of the culture. The seller may be offended if the buyer immediately agrees to the posted price tag. The price can be brought down to 70 percent. According to the reviews of tourists, sometimes it seems that the price does not depend on the characteristics of the product and its quality, but depends on the mood of the seller. The bargaining rule applies only to bazaars.
It is still better to buy expensive goods in reputable stores where there is quality control and a guarantee. If suddenly the product has to be changed, it will be done without any problems, and in the market again it will depend on the mood of the seller.
With significant spending, it is better to keep receipts in order to avoid questions at customs control.
What to bring with you from Tunisia
Body care products
Lagune Regenerating Opuntia and Algae Cream
Excellent composition: calendula oil, olive oil, prickly pear seed oil, almond oil, algae extract, vitamin E, mallow, arnica and other natural ingredients.
Opuntia oil tightens the skin, moisturizes and rejuvenates, algae extract helps to restore damaged skin areas, calendula relieves irritation.
The cream is fresh and light, despite the large amount of oils it is well absorbed. Apply with massage movements.
Individual intolerance is possible.
Ghassoul lavender by Bio Relax
It is used as a mask from head to toe and can also be applied to hair.
Washes well and gently. Nice smell.
Many properties: strengthens, softens the skin, removes dead cells, blackheads on the face and tightens pores. Brightens the complexion. And it has a balancing effect on the hair, reducing the production of excess sebum.
It noticeably improves the general appearance of the skin and hair, enriches the body with vitamins.
"Oliva plus lemon" for tanning
According to reviews on the Internet, tourists like a tanning lotion made from olive oil and lemon juice. In Tunisia, it is sold everywhere. Manufacturers are very different. The product saves from burning and gives the tan a beautiful shade.
Face care cosmetics
Clay and Argan Oil Face Mask
Composition based on natural ingredients: clay and argan oil is a powerful mixture for moisturizing, cleansing and toning the skin of the face.
The mask provides intensive care with an effect on the deep layers of the skin. Saturates the skin with minerals, enriches it with oxygen, synthesizes elastin and collagen, smoothes wrinkles, restores the hydrolipidic film, and removes dryness.
According to buyers, it is especially effective against aging and dryness.
Black cumin oil
For facials with acne, buy black seed oil. This oil product defeats all types of bacteria and fungi. There are no skin problems that this miraculous oil cannot deal with.
Dry algae
The recommendations of experienced tourists are to purchase dried algae in powder, they contain unique trace elements, are stored for a long time and are perfectly combined with all possible chemicals, so they can be added to any beauty products to enrich the composition.
Hair care products
Lagune Tfal Sea Clay Shampoo
A very popular purchase among vacationers in Tunisia is shampoos with tfal.
Lagune Shampoo is composed of three natural ingredients: tphal sea clay, argan oil and rose oil.
Cleans, stimulates hair growth, restores them, visually gives strength and shine.
Apply with caution to overly light or dyed blondes, the clay in this shampoo is dark.
According to customer reviews, shampoos in Tunisia have a too thick consistency, they are stringy and sticky. The impression is that they do not cleanse, but rather dirty the hair. Therefore, after any Tunisian shampoo, masks or balms are needed to facilitate combing and complete the process of cleansing and hair care.
Conditioner for hair with seaweed Le Secret
This is a versatile algae-based balm suitable for all hair types and for daily use. Exceptionally natural.
Algae nourish hair with minerals, vitamins and amino acids. They give shine, make them silky. Eliminate seborrhea and dandruff. Damaged hair areas are restored. The scalp is soothed.
Simple application: Apply to damp hair after shampooing, leave on for up to 5 minutes, then rinse off.
Perfumery
Tunisian oil perfumes and aromatic oils always have a fresh scent. The choice is huge, but the bulk is floral. 100 milliliters are sold at a price of 3-5 dollars (200-300 rubles). Tunisian perfumes are not advertised.Sometimes you come across a very original design of bottles, you can choose a great gift for a friend or sister.
There is a special feature: you cannot apply oil perfume on clothes, as oil leaves greasy marks. Only on the body and in small quantities, a drop: oil has a high concentration and thick consistency compared to liquids.
Conclusion
Tunisian cosmetics are natural biological products for female beauty. The most common ingredients are argan oil, black cumin, prickly pear, seaweed, local clay and mud. These organic substances give a good noticeable effect. If you have experience in using the cosmetics described in the review, or more interesting information, tell us about it in the comments.