Long before blush compacts and lip tints, women in Fez kept a small clay pot of deep-red powder on their dressing tables. A tiny touch on the cheeks and lips gave a soft, natural flush that lasted for hours. That powder is Aker Fassi, and it has found a loyal following among women in the Gulf who love beauty rooted in simple, plant-based ingredients.
What is Aker Fassi?
Aker Fassi — sometimes called dam al-ghazal — is a traditional powder from Fez made from dried red poppy petals and pomegranate peel, ground until fine. Dry, it's a deep brick red; mixed with a drop of water or oil, it turns into a warm rose tone that flatters most Arab and Gulf skin tones.
You'll find it as:
- Pure powder — the most versatile option: Aker Fassi Moroccan powder
- Rose water with Aker Fassi — a ready-made toner: Argan Rose Rose Water with Aker Fassi, in 100 ml or 250 ml
- Blended products such as scrubs and creams
See them all in our Aker Fassi collection.
What it can do for your skin
We prefer honesty to hype. Aker Fassi isn't magic, but it's a lovely addition to a routine:
- Instant glow — a healthy rosy tint for dull-looking skin
- A natural flush for cheeks and lips, with buildable colour
- A more even-looking complexion when used regularly in a rose-water mask
- Simple ingredients — petals and peel, with no synthetic colour in the pure powder
For more glow-focused products, browse our brightening collection.
Four simple ways to use it
1. Weekly glow mask
Mix ½ tsp Aker Fassi with 1 tbsp rose water (and 1 tsp yoghurt or honey if you like). Apply a thin layer to clean skin, avoiding the eyes, for 10-15 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water and moisturise. Once or twice a week.
2. Cheek tint
Place a pinhead of powder on the back of your hand, add a drop of rose water or moisturiser, and pat it onto the tops of your cheeks. Blend the edges; layer for more colour. Always start with less than you think.
3. Rosy lip balm
Mix ½ tsp Moroccan shea butter with a tiny pinch of Aker Fassi and dab onto lips. Make small batches and store them in a clean, airtight pot.
4. Daily toner
Mist rose water with Aker Fassi onto clean skin in the morning, or use it to mix your masks. More in our rose water collection.
For the body: the Royal Moroccan Rose Scrub with Aker Fassi is a gentle weekly scrub for elbows, knees and legs — perfect before an occasion.
Mistakes to avoid
- Using too much — it leaves patchy pink marks
- Skipping a 24-hour patch test on the inner wrist
- Applying to irritated or broken skin
- Leaving masks on longer than 15 minutes
- Using a damp spoon in the jar
- Buying unbranded powder that may be bulked out with synthetic dye
Spotting good Aker Fassi: it's a deep, slightly brown red — not a glossy, neon red — with a light plant scent, and the colour washes off skin without staining.
FAQ
Is Aker Fassi suitable for all skin types?
Most skin types enjoy it. If your skin is sensitive, patch-test first and begin with a very small amount.
Can I use it on my lips every day?
Yes, in a small amount mixed into a butter or balm. If you notice dryness or irritation, pause and give your lips a break.
Does it change my skin colour permanently?
No. The tint is temporary and washes off. Regular masks simply leave skin looking brighter and fresher.
How long does the powder last?
Kept airtight, away from moisture and sunlight, it keeps well. Always check the date on the pack.
Powder or rose water — which should I choose?
Powder gives stronger colour for masks and blush. Rose water with Aker Fassi is lighter and made for daily use.
Shop Aker Fassi at Lotus Flower
Lotus Flower Honey & Herbs: 100% authentic Moroccan products, in the UAE since 1998. Delivery in 1-3 working days to all emirates, with an AED 15 delivery fee and free delivery on orders over AED 150. Pay cash on delivery, by card, or in 4 interest-free payments with Tabby. Return or exchange any product within 7 days of delivery, including opened products.
Not sure what to choose? Chat with us on WhatsApp +971502028263, or visit our shop or our stand in the Moroccan Pavilion at Global Village during the season. Shop all skin care.
