Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be the centre of attention as a bride, and every bride wants to look and feel her best when that day comes. This includes skincare, which should be carefully applied so when the time comes to walk down the aisle, you are glowingly radiant.
Contrary to common expectations, bridal skincare goes beyond just wearing classy makeup; it’s about preparing your canvas so that your makeup looks even more stunning. To help you in your quest to look amazing on your wedding day, we’ve uncovered six skincare techniques that can make a world of difference in the way your skin looks and feels.
1. Start Early: The Power of Pre-Wedding Prep
In order to achieve that dream-like glow, one of the most important steps for bridal skincare is ensuring that you start early. Beginning a comprehensive skincare routine the day of the wedding will not take care of any long-standing skin concerns you may have. Rather, beginning a complete skincare routine several months before the ceremony will allow you to address concerns like acne, pigmentation, or fine lines, well in advance.
You can begin the skincare process by identifying your specific skin type and any concerns you may have about it. This can be done by consulting with a dermatologist or skin care professional, who can help you develop a tailored skincare regimen that suits your needs. Most regimens incorporate multiple skincare treatments, which typically include cleansing, exfoliating, moisturising, and treatments like serums and masks. Remember that consistency is key, so be sure to stick to your skincare routine diligently to see the best results.
2. Hydration is Key
Keeping hydrated does wonders for many parts of your body, including your skin. Hydrated skin is healthy skin, which is best achieved by drinking enough water to maintain your skin’s natural moisture balance. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and consider incorporating hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and berries into your diet. This is an easy way to gain much-needed hydration without simply drinking water.
Beyond just ingesting water, you can help your skin lock in moisture by using hydrating skincare products. Search for products that contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides as they work well to hydrate your skin. On top of that, be sure to apply a hydrating moisturiser every morning and night to aid in the maintenance of your skin’s moisture barrier.
3. Exfoliate Wisely
In order to promote your skin’s regular renewal, it is crucial that you regularly exfoliate. This skincare technique helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, leaving your skin smoother and clearer than before. However, it’s crucial to exfoliate wisely and avoid overdoing it, as excess exfoliation can lead to irritation and sensitivity.
That’s why it’s best to choose a gentle exfoliant that suits your skin type, whether it’s a physical scrub or a chemical exfoliant like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). These types of exfoliants should only be used 2-3 times a week, with particular attention paid to how the skin responds. If you notice any redness or excessive dryness, you should immediately reduce the frequency of exfoliation.
If you are interested in utilising professional treatment to exfoliate your face, you can try a chemical peel. This technique refreshes the entire face by encouraging new epidermal cells to generate, leaving the skin looking and feeling smoother after the peels have run their course. However, this resurfacing technique is not for everyone, so click here to learn about what to do before a chemical peel and determine if it’s the best option for your skin as a bride.
4. Sun Protection: Your Best Friend
It is an absolute must to include a form of sun protection in your skincare routine, especially if you are to become a bride in the near future. This is because UV rays can cause premature ageing, pigmentation, and damage to your skin, which can be challenging to correct before your wedding day.
Be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day for the best protection possible, even if the day is cloudy. If you’re spending a significant amount of time outdoors, make sure to reapply as needed. For those who are planning an outdoor wedding, it may be best that your sunscreen for the day includes water resistance for persistent coverage.
5. Customised Treatments for Specific Concerns
There is no singular skincare routine that can be applied to every bride. That’s because everyone has unique skin types and skincare concerns, whether it’s acne, uneven skin tone, or fine lines. Fortunately, there are targeted treatments available to address these issues, which can be determined after consulting a skincare professional. The treatment plan they offer you will have your best interests in mind and will pay close attention to what your concerns may be; so be sure to follow their advice!
Generally, however, you can find specific products that can be used to treat your most pressing skin concerns. Ingredients that should be used for specific concerns include:
- Acne-prone skin: Salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to address redness and clear the skin.
- Pigmentation: Vitamin C, niacinamide, or alpha arbutin to help dark spots fade.
- Fine lines and wrinkles: Retinol or peptides to boost collagen production and improve skin elasticity.
Always be sure to check the ingredients on a product before you use it in case there is one that your skin finds irritating. You wouldn’t want to start off your wedding day with a skin reaction.
6. Get Adequate Sleep and Manage Stress
In the whirlwind of wedding planning, it’s easy to neglect self-care in lieu of deciding seating arrangements and managing vendors. However, getting enough sleep and managing stress is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Lack of sleep can lead to puffy eyes, dark circles, and dull skin, all of which can affect your bridal look – even with the best makeup artist to help you.
Try creating and sticking to a bedtime routine that helps you unwind and relax long before the actual wedding day. Getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night on the regular will leave you glowing once the special day arrives. Otherwise, you can also try incorporating stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine. Less stress can lead to fewer breakouts and an overall healthier complexion.
Your wedding day is a momentous occasion, but your skin deserves just as much care and attention as your dress or the wedding venue. That’s why it’s so integral to follow the six skincare techniques provided above to ensure your skin is in its best condition before you walk down the aisle. No one will be able to look away from your radiance or confidence when that moment comes.
Remember, consistency is always key, so start pampering your skin early and with the same level of care every time. With the right skincare regimen, you’ll be well on your way to achieving that bridal glow you’ve always been dreaming about. So, embark on your bridal skincare journey now, and get ready to shine on your big day!
