In an enlightening interview, Dr. Maldaa Aldaoudi, a prominent figure in the field of aesthetic dermatology, shares her remarkable journey and insights as a leader in the industry. With a background rooted in her Middle Eastern heritage, Dr. Aldaoudi discusses the profound connection between culture and beauty, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-confidence in her practice. As the Chief of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at American Hospital Dubai, she reflects on her transformative experiences, including her education at Harvard, and her commitment to empowering other women in the STEM fields. Through her innovative approach to skincare and dedication to quality care, Dr. Aldaoudi is not only shaping the landscape of aesthetic medicine but also inspiring a new generation of female professionals to pursue their passions boldly. As she navigates the complexities of her career, Dr. Aldaoudi offers valuable advice and a fresh perspective on redefining beauty in today’s world.
What inspired you to pursue a career in dermatology, especially in aesthetic medicine?
I have always been passionate about the concepts of natural beauty and the power of self-confidence. Aesthetic dermatology enables me to help individuals embrace aging gracefully while maintaining their authentic selves. I believe everyone deserves to look and feel their best at every life stage without altering their identity. My approach centers on enhancing natural features, ensuring that beauty remains timeless and genuine. This philosophy drives me to stay at the forefront of innovative aesthetic treatments, harmonizing science with artistry.
How has your background and culture influenced your perspective on beauty and skincare?
Coming from a Middle Eastern background, I have developed a deep appreciation for skin health, which plays a vital role in beauty and self-care within our culture. Given the region’s climate, characterized by intense sun exposure, I am particularly mindful of the importance of skin protection, hydration, and long-term care. This awareness shapes my skincare approach, emphasizing preventive treatments that maintain youthful, healthy skin while respecting individual beauty. I aim to blend traditional skincare wisdom with contemporary aesthetic innovations to achieve optimal results.
Can you share your experience at Harvard and how it has shaped your vision for your practice?
My time at Harvard was transformative, equipping me with invaluable skills that enhanced my patient interactions. I learned to understand concerns deeply, educate patients about their options, and build trust—key elements in aesthetic medicine. The program emphasized quality care, which is particularly crucial in an elective field like aesthetics. Ensuring patient satisfaction, safety, and ethical practice is fundamental to my approach, and my education at Harvard reinforced this commitment. It has shaped my vision for providing personalized, high-quality treatments that prioritize both results and patient well-being.
What distinguishes aesthetic dermatology from traditional dermatology?
Aesthetic dermatology focuses on enhancing appearance and maintaining youthfulness, while traditional dermatology primarily addresses medical skin conditions. Since aesthetic treatments are elective, they require a personalized approach, precision, and an understanding of beauty ideals. This field blends science with artistry to achieve natural, harmonious results that boost confidence and overall well-being.
What are some of the latest trends in skincare and aesthetic treatments gaining popularity in the UAE and the Middle East?
In the UAE and the Middle East, there is a rising demand for treatments that prioritize enhancing skin quality rather than just contouring. Options like Sculptra and hyper diluted calcium hydroxyapatite are gaining traction, as they stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and restore natural firmness. These treatments offer long-term rejuvenation by enhancing skin hydration, elasticity, and overall radiance, making them a preferred choice for those seeking a fresh, youthful look.
Many women struggle with balancing natural beauty and cosmetic enhancements. What is your philosophy on this balance?
I believe beauty is deeply personal, and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to aesthetic treatments. My philosophy centers around a customized approach that enhances each individual’s natural features while promoting graceful aging. The goal is not to change how someone looks but to maintain their unique beauty over time, refreshing their appearance subtly and harmoniously.
What does beauty mean to you, and how do you hope to redefine it for Arab women?
To me, beauty represents confidence, authenticity, and the ability to embrace one’s natural features while aging gracefully. I aim to redefine beauty for Arab women by advocating for a personalized, subtle approach that enhances their unique characteristics rather than alters them. My objective is to empower them with treatments focusing on skin quality, radiance, and timeless elegance, ensuring they feel their best at every stage of life.
What was your vision when establishing Eternel Clinics, and how has it evolved over the years?
When I founded Eternel Clinics, my vision was to create a premier destination for high-quality aesthetic treatments that enhance natural beauty while prioritizing patient safety and well-being. Over the years, the clinic has evolved to incorporate the latest technologies and innovative treatments, delivering even more personalized and effective results. Today, Eternel Clinics is a trusted name in aesthetics, blending science and artistry to help clients age gracefully and confidently.
As a businesswoman, what advice do you have for women aspiring to establish their own ventures in the beauty and medical industry?
My advice for women entering the beauty and medical fields is to remain committed to quality, innovation, and ethical practices. Building a successful venture requires passion, continuous learning, and the ability to adapt to industry trends while maintaining a clear personal vision. Above all, believe in yourself, nurture a trusted network, and focus on delivering genuine value to your clients.
Special Thanks to Elham Khashoggi.
Text by Victor Gee
