‘I'm 28, but I look 40’: How war has changed the faces of Gaza

In Gaza, three years of ongoing war have dramatically altered the appearance of many residents, as reported by The National. Mustafa Musa, a 28-year-old resident, now feels he looks much older, at least 10 years, due to the physical and psychological toll of the conflict. His weight has dropped from 90kg to 73kg, and his face and hands have darkened from prolonged sun exposure. The war has disrupted his daily routine, leaving him with less time for personal care.

Afaf Hamada, 42, shares similar experiences. Prior to the war, she took great care of her appearance, but now, she struggles with cracked and painful hands, thinning hair, and a realization that her age is more apparent than ever. The war has disrupted her ability to maintain her hygiene, with tasks like laundry and cooking now performed manually instead of with washing machines and appliances.

Mohammed Abu Sufian, 31, also notes the significant impact the war has had on his appearance. He recalls a time when life was peaceful and stable, but now his face reflects the stress and hardships he's endured. He has even begun to notice grey hairs, a change he had never experienced before the conflict.

For young women like Sireen Abu Harbeed, the changes in appearance can be particularly distressing. Displaced from Beit Hanoun and now living in Gaza city, she has seen her hair and complexion deteriorate due to a lack of proper care products and resources. The loss of privacy and control over daily life has left her feeling distressed when she looks in the mirror, as it evokes memories of a life now gone.