Wedding planning is well underway and your big day is slowly drawing near. You've booked your favorite photographer, found the dress of your dreams and your vendor list is set. Now is prime time for a little self care, including getting your pre wedding skincare routine really dialed in.
Attain a stunning, bridal glow by keeping your skincare routine straightforward, efficient, and consistent. Starting a proper skincare routine 6 months prior to your wedding day is important because trying new products too close to your big day can result in overwhelming your skin and a sensitized water barrier. It takes time for your skin to adjust to new products and show results, so start early.
With that in mind, here is The Ultimate Skincare Guide for the Glowing Bride-to-Be!
Cleanse
Wash your face in the morning and evening to get rid of dirt, oil, and makeup, so that your skin can repair itself. Use a mild cleanser that is appropriate for your skin type. Avoid using harsh cleansers that can remove the skin's natural oils and compromise barrier function.
Exfoliate
Choose a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin cells, and encourage a smooth facial texture. Skin that is not exfoliated regularly will look dull and lackluster. There are two different types of exfoliant; chemical and physical. It is best to use a chemical exfoliator containing AHAs or BHAs two to three times a week or as instructed, in the evening to maintain glowing skin.
Hydrate
It is essential to hydrate for healthy, glowing skin. Hydrate effectively in layers. After washing your face, apply a hydrating toner, followed by a serum or facial oil that suits your skin type and finally, your moisturizer. Seek products that contain hyaluronic acid, squalane and ceramides for long lasting hydration.
Many people with oily skin avoid effective moisturizing, when infact skin will produce extra oil to compensate for dehydration. Don't be afraid of serums, facial oils and moisturizers containing oils.
Protect
Don't forget your sunscreen! Apply sunscreen daily to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. UV exposure to the skin, creates damage that can range from premature wrinkles and age spots to dangerous skin cancer. Select a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Even on cloudy days, generously apply it to your face, neck, and any other exposed skin. Tan/burn lines are also much less likely to ruin the look of a strapless dress when wearing sunscreen daily.
Eye Care
Care for the sensitive skin around your eyes. Regular use of a hydrating eye cream or serum will help with reducing the appearance of fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness. Look for products with hyaluronic acid, peptides, antioxidants and/or retinol.
Professional Treatments
Are you acne-prone, have hyperpigmentation or fine lines/wrinkles that you are worried about? Consider visiting a local skincare expert who can analyze your skin and offer customized treatment options.
If you are a Blush & Bobby Pins bride, inquire about how you can take advantage of special rates on facials, chemical peels, microneedling, lasers, HydraFacial®, lash/brow services and much more!
Healthy Lifestyle
Hydrate! Be sure to drink plenty on water throughout the day to hydrate your skin from the inside out.
Eat a well balanced diet. What you eat each day can cause your skin to react in different ways. Some people might experience inflammation, redness, puffiness, eczema, acne breakouts, increased signs of aging, and more. If your daily nutritional intake lacks significant food groups, your skin won’t get the vitamins and minerals needed to remain plump, moisturized, and firm, so eat your veggies!
Get your beauty sleep. Sleep can have a significant effect on the health and appearance of your skin. Poor sleep has been shown in multiple studies to be linked to poor skin health, faster-aging skin, and an increased risk of certain skin conditions such as hanging or puffy eyelids, darker under eye circles, dryness, dullness, a gray undertone, or reduced glow. Try an get a full 8 hours of sleep each night.
Manage Stress. It is important to take time to unwind and practice mind body techniques. Stress can cause increased inflammation, slow down wound healing, and negatively impact skin conditions. Your glands produce more oil when under stress, which can cause acne to worsen in people who are prone to breakouts. It can also trigger flare-ups for skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Stress hormones break down the collagen and elastin in skin and interfere with rejuvenation, which can speed up the aging process causing more fine lines and wrinkles. (Making time to meditate as I write this! 😳)
Skincare Guide Summary
Start your day with a refreshing skincare regimen and a huge glass of water. Create time to wind down in the evening with a relaxing skincare treatment. It is important to be consistent and above all, prioritize self care.
Cheers!
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