Most brides get ready for the big day by going on the diet of a lifetime and working out every detail for of their reception, but what about your face? Next to the dress, your glowing face is the thing that everyone will notice. Furthermore, the stress of a wedding can take a toll on your skin. So plan ahead, and face the facts (no pun intended).
Whether you are a bride, mother of the bride, or bridesmaid, this is not a process that you would want to start a month before the wedding. Follow these step-by-step instructions on to get your face ready for the big day.
6 MONTHS PRIOR:
About six months out you will want to make an appointment for a consultation. This is important! (This is like a locker room game plan before the big game!) At your consultation, you will discuss what needs to be addressed. At this time, your esthetician can schedule out a customized bridal bootcamp package with respect to your budget, schedule, and skin care needs. One of these treatments per month would be key to get you ready for the big day. Popular treatments include Oxygen treatments, dermaplaning, light lactic peels, and laser hair removal.
Our highly experienced estheticians will recommend products appropriate for your skin care needs. Ingredients in products are key. Home care products, under the guidance of our experienced estheticians, will make all the difference in the world. Knowing when and what to use will address your concerns and prepare your skin. If acne is one of your concerns, this is the time that you start addressing this problem at this time. Other skin concerns cannot be addressed until the acne is under control. The estheticians can recommend products to start this process. Depending grade of acne, we will determine the products and treatments right for you (i.e. cleansers, moisturizers, spot treating, chemical peels, etc.) The purpose of a chemical peel is to superficially exfoliate the top dead layers of skin, thereby creating a surface that is not ideal for acne-causing bacteria. Your home care products will help to supplement treatments like these. The combination of in-office treatments and home care can assist with ridding the nasty buildup of dead skin cells and clogged pores.
5-6 MONTHS PRIOR:
Have some annoying hairs that you will find devastating on your honeymoon night? Start your laser hair removal process now. Typically a laser hair removal series will require 6-8 treatments. In this series, individual treatments typically happen every three to four weeks (depending on the area that you are treating.) Often the shedding of the treated hairs takes about two to three weeks.
Note: Let these fall out on their own! Do not manipulate. Starting this process ahead of time will help you avoid razor cuts on the big day.
3-4 MONTHS PRIOR:
If wrinkles have made themselves at home around your brows and eyes, injectable fillers may be your new best friend! Restylane, Juvederm and Perlane are hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers. HA is a natural sugar compound found in all living organisms that helps retain moisture, providing volume and fullness to the skin. Our office is on-site of a board-certified plastic surgeon’s medical practice. A member of his team can direct you on which filler is best for your annoying nasolabial folds or forehead wrinkles. Some bruising may occur so complete filler treatments early.
2-3 MONTHS OUT:
Refresh with a little Botox at this time for a little “pick me up.” For those of you that are not familiar with Botox, it is a prescription medicine. that is injected into the muscle and use to improve moderate to severe lines. During your consultation you can discuss the areas that you are interested in treating. Botox results typically last anywhere between 3-5 months.
1-2 MONTHS:
Finding a makeup artist is key. Do not hire someone without trying them out ahead of time. Meet with your artist to discuss different bridal looks that interest you. Bring a variety of pictures from fashion magazines that you like (or hate) to explain your style and preferences. Make sure that both of you have a clear, solid understanding of what will make you feel comfortable and beautiful on your special day.
There are many makeup artists, but for this day select someone who understands lighting and the way makeup translates on film. Don’t freak out about the amount of makeup that may be applied. Cameras and lighting can wash out your makeup trust me! Hire someone you can trust to deliver your dream aesthetic.
30 DAYS PRIOR:
Besides being exhausted and tired of tasting cakes, you are ready! With the help of your wonderful estheticians, doctor, registered nurse, or physician assistant, you will be glowing! (Just be sure to do your part and follow directions for at-home care.) It is time to make the appointment for a massage, mani-pedi and one last oxygen treatment or facial. Remember, weddings are stressful. Give yourself contingency time. Most estheticians would prefer to complete final treatments 4-5 days prior to your special day. This gives your skin time to adjust and leaves you flexible for any laser minutes needs of your event. Try to enjoy your magical, beautiful big day, and know that everyone will be gasping as you walk down the aisle, saying “Wow, her dress is absolutely beautiful, and look at her skin!”
