Did you know that your skin is your largest organ? With that in mind, skincare is one of those things no one should ever take lightly. Kuwait University College of Medicine and Surgery Graduates Dr. Mahitab Al Bannay and Dr. Mahinoor Al Bannay found their calling in the wonderful field of dermatology. While they originally wanted to study Surgery and Psychiatry respectively, Dr. Mahitab specialized at King’s College, University of London while Dr. Mahinoor got her degree from the Canadian-Accredited Kuwaiti Board of Dermatology. Well versed in dermatology and armed with an extensive knowledge of the skin and its needs, their latest venture comes in the form of a brand new dermatology aesthetic medicine and laser clinic. Welcome to the Al Bannay Clinic, where skincare is all the rage.
As we began the introductions, Dr. Mahitab began with a huge smile, “I’m the younger sister.” Laughing, Dr. Mahinoor jumped in to reclaim her title, “Mahitab will try and claim that she’s younger sister, but I’m here to tell you that I am.” But when it comes to their skills, they’ve perfected the art of dermatology and offer a vast number of treatments. From non-invasive lipo-sculpting and contouring to facials and various laser therapies – the Al Bannay sisters have you covered! They also have a special offer to all our readers: “Mention this article to our receptionist and receive 30% off on all services we provide!”
We have to start with your names!
Mahitab: Our names are actually Turkish, as our maternal grandmother was from Turkey. Mahinoor (Arabic/Turkish) and Mahitab (fully Turkish) both mean “moonlight.”
Did you always know you were going to be doctors?
Mahitab: Yes, absolutely. I remember being as young as 5 or 6 playing and roughhousing with an older brother, cousins and friends and sometimes getting hurt. I never squirmed at the sight of blood, scratches or anything like that. If anything, I’d be the first kid to jump and check out the injury- I’ve always been fascinated by medicine. Also, my mother is a doctor and my grandmother was a nurse. I guess, in a way, medicine is in our blood.
Mahinoor: Since we were kids, my father had a huge influence on us. He basically told us we were both going to be doctors whether we liked it or not. That was fine by me, to be honest, because I’ve always had an interest in science and medicine. I’m curious by nature, and when I was younger I was always interested in biology and chemistry sets, playing doctor and pretending to give injections.
How has dermatology evolved over the years?
Mahinoor: It’s no longer invasive. Once upon a time, going to see a dermatologist for treatments could be a pretty painful, intrusive procedure. However, the changes made in dermatology in the last decade or so have taken us light-years ahead of where we were before. Plus, we work on the skin, so it’s pretty superficial to begin with. Skin is easier to work on and manipulate.
What sets the clinic apart from other dermatology clinics?
Mahitab: I wanted a place that could care for a large number of my concerns. I wanted it to provide me with a wide range of options: from medical treatments to laser therapy, and all my beauty and cosmetology needs.
People are also looking for a more natural approach. Still, it is absolutely necessary that everyone understand that each patient, each face, all skin, is different. What works with one patient may not necessarily work for another, and it’s crucial we inform and educate every patient about that. We work with their skin and their personalized situations specifically, in order to find a solution.
Mahinoor: It’s also important to note that the skin, being the largest organ of the human body, needs to be maintained. Dermatologists have a responsibility to inform their patients as to what’s required, not have the patients dictate the procedures to us. We try to comply with the patients’ needs, however, by providing tailor-made protocols that cater to their lifestyles.
We treat, not simply provide a quick, one-hit solution. That’s what I think people need to understand about dermatology: it’s usually never a simple, one-time result. Skin needs to be maintained for a lifetime, and that’s what we aim to teach our patients.
What should patients expect in terms of treatment and follow up?
Mahitab: Patients should expect to be diagnosed, educated and given custom-made guidelines for their individual skin types and problems. We expect our patients to leave well informed and with realistic expectations as to what we can provide them to achieve optimal results.
And lastly, can you share your skincare routines?
Mahinoor: We never leave the house without sunblock, come rain or shine. We also use anti-aging products at night, ranging from serums to creams to masks, etc.
Mahitab: We make sure to get medical facials at least once a month to revitalize the skin.
Mahinoor: And don’t forget to remove your makeup before you go to bed every night.
Mahitab: And moisturize! Always moisturize.
Don’t forget to mention this article when you visit them for your exclusive 30% discount – courtesy of Dr. Mahitab and Dr. Mahinoor Al Bannay! Make sure you follow Al Bannay Clinic for more information on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat @AlBannayClinic. Visit the clinic in Al Arabiya Tower, 5th floor, Ahmed Al Jaber St. Sharq. Open from Saturday to Thursday between 11 AM – 7 PM, closed on Friday.
For more information, call 2226 7222, 2226 7220 or 9888 1041. Photos provided by Bdour @badwar on Instagram.
