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That clock is counting steadily down ’til it reaches the most photographed day of your life. Avoiding key pitfalls and prepping well should see your skin glowing just in time for “I do.”
IF YOU WANT TO KEEP YOUR SKIN IN TIP-TOP SHAPE… DO make sure your home skincare is up to scratch. “If a client is just using face wipes, they need to change their routine before the big day. Go to a reputable skin clinic and get a consultation. Your basic skin routine should include the following: an antioxidant and a good SPF for protection, a vitamin A product for cell turnover, and a hyaluronic acid product for hydration,” says aesthetician Niamh O’Rourke from Renaissance Laser & Skin Clinic. DON’T change what you’re using if it’s working for you. And certainly stick to your routine for the two weeks immediately before the big day.
IF YOU WANT TO REDUCE PIGMENTATION… DO seek out the big guns – IPL and peels could be required to get the flawless finish you’re after. “Brides want glowing and luminous skin,” says Niamh. “Our most popular course of treatments would be a combination of Image Skincare peels, Genosys Mesotherapy and Dermalux LED therapy. However, if someone has extreme pigmentation and broken capillaries, they might need a course of IPL. DON’T overspend on unsuitable products. Managing your own expectations when it comes to how far products alone can take you is a good tip. “If you are on the wrong products, then you are just throwing your money down the drain,” says Sinead.
Related: Jennifer Rock’s guide to bridal skincare
IF YOU WANT PERFECT SKIN ON THE DAY… DO get a hydrating facial the week of. “If you’ve been having regular skin treatments and your aesthetician knows your skin, we’d definitely advise a hydrating facial, but nothing aggressive or stimulating,” says Niamh. DON’T get any treatments that are too harsh or try anything new.
IF YOU WANT TO GO ONE STEP FURTHER… DO try Botox. If, like me, you’ve got fine lines across your forehead, wrinkles around the eyes or marionette lines you’re not fond of, Botox is a great way to smooth them out dramatically. It’s pricey, but it works. I go to the Dr Mulrooney Clinic and find them to be magic. DON’T get it done for the first time too close to the wedding. Try it a few months before and if needed, top it up. You don’t want to do something so radical and risk not being happy with it.
Photography by Jason Lloyd-Evans.
For more expert advice on bridal skincare, check out the July/August issue of IMAGE Magazine, out now.
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