TREAT YOUR SKIN
A handful of bridal skinvestments that will give you great results.
A handful of bridal skinvestments that will give you great results
W hether you’re six months out from “I do” or just six weeks, there’s time to improve your skin’s appearance. We look at salon treatments and at-home regimes that will hydrate and brighten your skin to have you looking your bridal best.
TRY A SKIN PEEL
A light, effective skin peel is a great way to kick off a pre-wedding skin treatment programme. Environ Technical Educator Karen Wilson says depending on the bride’s skin, a series of three to six peels is recommended for improved skin texture, tone, hydration and overall radiance. “The sooner you start the better,” says Karen, “because skin with good vitamin A levels will always respond better to salon treatments.” She recommends Environ’s super facial, whilch combines a lacpam gel peel and vitamin infusions, and can be scheduled up to two days prior to your wedding for a glowing, healthy complexion.
STAY CALM
When we are stressed and anxious our internal system experiences huge changes, often resulting in chemical and hormonal imbalances in our body that will eventually show up on our skin. Never underestimate the importance of supporting your emotional health and nervous system in the lead-up to your special day. Try a meditation app, such as ‘Calm’, to slow your mind down.
GET YOUR BEAUTY SLEEP
But before you hit the pillow, take ten minutes to cleanse and hydrate your skin. An oil cleanser or pre- cleanser is perfect to break down foundation and makeup, and the second cleanse (often a cream) is for the ingredients to work their magic on the deep layers of skin.
STAY HYDRATED
Lauren de Vries, Head Trainer for More Than Skin, says that toner is a great final cleansing step to hydrate and saturate skin cells. If you experience dry skin, invest in quality, specialist-hydrating skin products – and swap sugary drinks for water.
IN THE BUFF
To improve skin texture, prevent blockages and blackheads, and to allow products to work more efficiently, exfoliation is key. “Your makeup finish will appear more flawless when the skin is exfoliated,” explains Lauren. “This is a must- do in the lead-up to the wedding day. I would recommend in- salon facial treatments, complemented by at-home exfoliation.”
FACE WORKOUT
Stimulate your facial muscles with a simple DIY face massage to increase circulation and energise the skin’s appearance. After cleansing, glide your fingers gently over your skin in small circles along your jaw line, and separately from the side of the nose, over your cheekbone, to your temples. Using a repair serum or protein essence such as Royal Bond Stem Cell Protein Essence will further enhance your skin’s appearance.
VITAL PROTECTION
It’s important to wear sunscreen year-round to protect your skin from harmful UV rays (yes, even in winter) and environmental pollutants. “SPF is vital, rain or shine,” enforces Lauren. “It not only protects your skin, but also reduces visible signs of ageing and pigmentation.” Be extra vigilant the month before your big day, and if you’re after a bronzed look, opt for a fake tan over the real thing.
SPOT TREATMENT
Imperfections in skin are often caused by factors such as hormonal changes or bacteria build-up. If you battle with breakouts on the daily, an upcoming wedding is a great reason to see a dermatologist for advice. For pesky smatterings of spots, Karen suggests targeted breakout treatment – such as Environ Sebuspot Gel – and to “apply it the moment you feel the breakout developing.”
PORE PATROL
You may have noticed the tiny little skin openings on the surface of your skin. These are pores, and the body’s natural oil (which is produced in the deeper layers of your skin) escapes through these holes. A pore minimiser can help to diminish these openings on the outer layers of your skin and to give you a more flawless base for makeup application.
MASK OVER IT
A face mask will help to brighten and illuminate your skin and leave your complexion feeling refreshed and looking radiant. A twice weekly mask – while you soak in the bath, or tackle that seating chart – is a worthwhile use of your time.