By Viktoria
Updated: August 6, 2024
9 minutes
You’ve set the date, gone out to find a perfectly romantic venue for the special day, and said yes to a wedding gown. Your big day is fast approaching, and you’re all excited and elated until your friends start emphasizing how flawless and angelic you’ll look on your big day. Suddenly, you’re worried about your skin. No worries. No one’s permitted to outshine you on your day. And this article equips you to walk down the aisle with a radiant glow no one can compete with on your big day.
First Things First: Key Notes
Don’t go on a binge purchase of skin care products
When you want a bridal skin glow for your big day, you may be enticed by many skincare products, all promising fabulous results. Don’t get carried away and go on a binge purchase. Remember, more products don’t necessarily equal better results. Before making any product purchase, ensure you do thorough research on its ingredients, function, and reliability or authenticity. Also, look out for user-generated information and reviews on the product.
Give your skin ample time
As with adding weight or losing weight, skin care takes some time to reflect on the outside. So, plan ahead and allow your skin to glow naturally at its own pace. As a rule of thumb, when it comes to the bridal glow, the longer the time allowance left, the better. We generally recommend that you begin your skin prep journey at least six months before your wedding to enjoy the maximum benefits of the procedure and have your desired glow on and beyond your big day.
Set realistic expectations
The steps discussed in this article will no doubt help you achieve a bridal glow. However, one of the first steps in launching your pre-wedding glow-up campaign is having realistic expectations. While skincare will improve your skin care and give your skin a visible glow, it won’t take you from 0 to 100 in minutes. Most skin care routines require patience and consistency to see visible results, and the time it takes to see visible results may vary from person to person depending on multiple factors, including age, skin health, genetics, etc.
You are unique, and so is your skin
Before you proceed to read the rest of this article, say this to yourself three times: “I am unique, and so is my skin.” You are unique, and so is your skin, so while you may get recommendations from your friends or other brides, remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to pre-wedding skin glow. So, don’t get frustrated if something that’s worked for everyone around you doesn’t seem to be working for you. You’re unique and will, in no time, find just the right fit for your unique skin type.
Pre-wedding Beauty Tips: Preparing for the Glow Up from Inside Out
Drink lots of water
If you’ve researched skin health or generally reviewed articles in the beauty industry, you would have come across the phrase “stay hydrated” multiple times. Keeping your body and skin hydrated is a key step in attaining the bridal glow. Drink plenty of water, preferably at least 8 glasses of water each day. Adequate water aids in your skin’s natural repair process and helps maintain your skin’s elasticity. So, it should be a part of your pre-bridal skin care at home.
Eat Healthy
It sounds cliché, but it isn’t. Your skin reflects your overall health, not just an exterior skincare regimen. Incorporate whole grains into your meals to supply your body with soluble and insoluble fiber needed for detoxification and repair. Also, avoid junk food and unhealthy fats that may cause your skin to break out before your wedding day. Consider also adding in foods rich in collagen, like berries, beef bone broth, organ meats, and sardines. Stick to balanced diets. It’ll nourish your body and support your skin’s health.
Exercise regularly
It sounds like a lot, but, it’s absolutely worth it. Having radiant skin can be as simple as having a healthy lifestyle. And you’ll agree that physical activity is a key component of a healthy lifestyle. The earlier you set out with exercise, the better. We recommend starting at least three months before your wedding to allow you to sweat out toxins in your body. Exercise also aids in blood circulation to every part of your body, including your skin. Some research also suggests that exercise improves the skin’s ability to retain moisture and may prevent future skin problems. Don’t forget to take a good bath after each workout to eliminate sweat and dirt from your skin and prevent clogging your pores.
Do a detox
Topical skin products are only a fraction of what affects your skin’s overall outlook. You should also pay attention to what circulates to your skin from your body system. Consider detoxing to get rid of impurities within your system and prepare your body for a healthy bridal glow.
Let the stress go
De-stress. Planning a wedding is a lot of work and often comes with an equal load of stress. Sadly, many brides do not take time to de-stress before their big day, and the stress dampens their otherwise radiant countenance. Moreso, stress can cause your skin to react in unpleasant ways. Stress may cause skin inflammation and even slow down the skin wound healing and self-repairing processes. Remember, your skin reflects what’s going on inside your body, so take time to de-stress, whether it’s through yoga, a massage, or practicing mindfulness. Do whatever helps you de-stress.
Get quality sleep
There’s a reason it’s sleeping beauty, not busy beauty. Take some time to get adequate sleep. Staying awake late into the night only to run off early the next morning doesn’t do your skin much good. Three months before your wedding, be more intentional about your sleep (quality and quantity). Cut out the late-night parties to avoid casting a stress shadow that won’t go unnoticed on your skin.
Bridal Skincare Tips: Care From the Outside
The first step is envisioning how you’ll want to look on your big day. Here are some effective beauty prep tips with recommended timelines to get you primed for your bridal glow.
Trying injectables
If you’re considering getting an injectable, like Botox, to lift your face and smooth out lines and wrinkles, we advise you to schedule an appointment at least 6 months before your wedding. Ideally, it’s best to start your Botox treatment a year ahead so you have adequate time to work with your dermatologist and heal well before your big day. While this may not be feasible if your wedding is in about three months or less, it’s worth asking your dermatologist. Moreso, other tips will help you attain the glow you desire quickly.
Using a retinoid
Retinoids are known to be effective in treating hyperpigmentation and acne. Retinoids may also boost your system’s collagen production, which is needed for the firm, youthful skin you desire for your special day. If you’re giving retinoids a trial, we advise that you start about 6 months ahead of your wedding, as retinoid doesn’t have an immediate effect on the skin. It requires consistency over a relatively long period of time (up to six weeks). You may experience skin drying and flaking within your first month of use; don’t panic. It’s completely normal. We advise that you go through this process from start to finish with your dermatologist.
Getting a clinical peel
A clinical peel tailored to your skin would help you glow. Body scrubs help remove dead skin cells and reduce skin dullness. Clinical peeling, however, takes exfoliation to the next level. Getting a clinical peel is like going for an exfoliation session that never allows a dead cell to escape. You can be sure you’ll return with more radiant and supple skin. Remember to get it in time, though. A clinical peel should be done about three to four weeks before your wedding day.
Booking a hydrating facial
It’s a good idea to contact your aesthetician for a hydrating facial. This will help revitalize your skin and prevent dullness and dark patches due to dryness. Moreso, a hydrating facial is often a relaxing experience that may be part of your de-stress routine. If you have a trusted aesthetician who has worked on your skin in the past, it’s best to stick with the person. Otherwise, conduct thorough research to ascertain credibility before booking an appointment. Remember, it’s your big day, and the last thing you want is for your skin to be bad because you trusted a quack. You can have your facials spaced weeks apart, so you’ll enjoy multiple sessions before your big day.
Trying out laser treatments
If you have hyperpigmentation concerns or need to get rid of sunburns before the day, speak with your dermatologist about the possibility of getting a laser treatment. Usually, you’ll need about three to four laser treatments to get rid of hyperpigmentation and even out your skin tone. So, we advise starting your consultation and laser treatment about six months before your wedding. That way, you have enough time to consider your options and get the needed number of sessions for maximum results and downtime. Your dermatologist may also advise that you adjust the treatment as needed. The laser procedure gently removes old and damaged skin cells to reveal new, brighter ones underneath. A laser facial will improve your complexion and set the foundation for your bridal makeup.
Adding AHAs and BHAs
AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) and BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids) are collectively known as chemical exfoliants in skincare. And adding them to your skin regimen may be a game changer, especially when you’re aiming for a brighter complexion. AHAs, like glycolic and lactic acids, exfoliate the skin, giving it a smoother feel. BHAs, like salicylic acid, on the other hand, penetrate deeper into the pores, helping to unclog them and prevent breakouts. Think of it like a deep cleanse operation in which BHAs are the undercover agents that go deep in to sweep out while AHAs clean out the surface. We advise you to introduce chemical exfoliants (AHAs and BHAs) to your skin gently and in minimal quantities to prevent irritation.
Doing hair removal
After your wedding, chances are you’ll be going on a honeymoon with your partner, possibly spending some time at the beach or having a scenic getaway. Use an IPL device to rid your skin of any pesky hair and achieve smooth skin. The Ulike handset is portable and can be carried with you anywhere, including on your bridal trip to shave your underarms and bikini lines and prepare ahead of the first night.
Pro Tips to Bear in Mind
Here are some tips to remember for the best results when setting out for your bridal glow up.
Have an outlined skincare timeline
Work with a dermatologist to draft a personalized skincare plan. This personalized approach ensures that your skin gets optimal care for the radiance and glow you desire.
Avoid new treatments and products as your special day draws near
Don’t experiment with new beauty products or treatment procedures in the final weeks leading up to your wedding. New treatments may cause irritation to your skin and affect your bridal glow. Stick to your tested and trusted routines.
Prioritize hydration
Get your final facials a week before your wedding, drop the AHAs and BHAs, and focus on keeping your skin moisturized and your body hydrated. Stick to calming serums, toners, and moisturizers. Also, keep your body hydrated by drinking enough water.
Stick to water-based skincare
Oil-based skin care products are generally heavier on the skin and may affect the longevity of your makeup. So, on your D-Day, stick to water-based products, as they are lightweight, non-greasy, and will not cause your makeup to wear out.
Which is the best facial for a bride?
The best facial for you will vary based on your skin. However, hydrating and brightening facials are the most popular pre-wedding choice amongst brides-to-be.
How to get a bridal glow in one month?
To get a bridal glow in one month:
- Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily to hydrate from the inside out.
- Use a gentle exfoliant.
- Keep your pores cleansed and your skin moisturized.
- Stick to a balanced diet.
- Schedule a professional facial.
- Get quality sleep every night.
Conclusion
You deserve every ounce of radiance on your wedding day. Remember, achieving your desired glow is not just about using the right products but also about being intentional and consistent in your routine. Ultimately, your skin reflects your overall health, so prioritize exercise, healthy eating, and treat yourself right.
