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You want to look your best on your wedding day, but serious beauty takes a little planning. Today on the New Bride Guide we sort out which beauty habits are more like major overhauls than quick fixes, and therefore require a little forethought and prior planning. Aka, the sooner you start – the better:
1. A fitness routine. You need to fit into that dress and look good in photos, but exercise is the best beauty treatment around. Getting blood circulating will give you a natural glow, and if you’re working out outside via running or even a boot camp, you’ll get a little color without going tanning.
2. Drinking more water. If nothing else, this will help decrease bloat. In the long run it will quell your cravings for sugary drinks such as soda. If you’re trying to drop a few pounds it will act as catalyst for weight loss. There is no downside to having water.
3. Quit it: biting your nails. You need pretty hands as a bride. Everyone will be looking at your hands (show off that bling!) and they will be photographed for posterity, so they need to be in top shape.
There is an amazing product called Bite It that tastes terrible but really will stop you from biting your nails. Once you’ve let them grow a little, make it a habit to get a weekly manicure. In the short term this will make your nails look better, but over time proper nail grooming will make nail beds look longer and will control problems such as hangnails and dry cuticles. If your nails are brittle, a daily multivitamin such as Centrum will make them stronger if you take it regularly.
If you need further inspiration, try experimenting with wedding day nail colors until you find exactly the right one.
4. Problem skin? Go see the derm. Even if you have the worst acne known to man, modern medicine can make it go away before you walk down the aisle. It might involve needles and shots of cortisone to the face, but your skin will look better. If you have decent skin, a dermatologist can give you prescription creams if you break out due to stress. You can also experiment with treatments such as botox or fills, if you’re so inclined. Try them long before the wedding, in case you don’t love the results.
5. Facials: Facials deeply cleanse the skin, boost circulation and hydrate it. For best results, they should be done every four to six weeks. Start at least six months before your wedding. Do not have your last facial too close to the big day — about two weeks before before is ideal. You can speak with your esthetician about microdermabrasion as well, if you really want your skin to glow.
6. Let’s talk about your hair: The rule of thumb is not to do anything drastic right before your wedding, but a few months in advance is a good time to consider your options. Find a stylist you can stick with and talk about your wedding look. Do you have to grow your hair out? Lighten it a little? A good stylist knows how to pace changes, or make sure things status quo.
7. Get your eyebrows into shape. See a pro, not the backroom at the nail salon. It’s a cliche, but eyebrows really do frame your entire face. If they’re too straight or too arched you can look like a muppet, so work with someone who only does eyebrows. Ask a recent bride for a good recommendation.
8. See the dentist. Much like your hands, everyone will notice your smile. (And you should be smiling!) Go in for a proper dental cleaning as soon as you’re engaged and talk to your dentist about any necessary upkeep. Take care of any fillings or root canals, because you don’t want to have to deal with major dental work right before your wedding. It’s also a good time to get your teeth whitened or explore orthodontia options, if you want to fix your overbite.
9. Book a make up artist. Even if you are the most low-maintenance woman on the planet, you shouldn’t do your own make up at your wedding. Find a make up artist who shares your vision, be it dramatic, glamazon eyes or low key freshness. Book your chosen artist as soon as you can, since good ones get snatched up fast. A make-up trial is a good idea. The best time to have one is a month or two before your wedding.
10. If you’re not already into yoga, try it out. If nothing else it will help de-stress you. From a beauty perspective it will tone your arms and shoulders, parts that will be on display on your wedding day.
You’re looking good. Keep up the diligent wedding planning with 10 bridesmaid questions answered, 10 things to know before buying your wedding dress and why you should stay off Pinterest.
