~ Bridal Makeup Tips/ Skin Prep ~

This is the first post in the BRIDAL MAKEUP TIPS series. In this post, we will focus on preparing your skin for that special day and making sure it is ready to be made up to your prettiest version of you. Whether you decide to brave your makeup yourself or hire a makeup artist to secure the investment in those photos that will last forever, well cared for skin is essential to getting the most of our your special look. 

BEGIN FROM THE INSIDE OUT:

Be sure to eat healthy and drink plenty of water in the months before your wedding. Yes, it really does make a difference. Water hydrates skin, flushes toxins from your body, aids in digestion and helps keep body systems moving in the right direction. Don’t overlook this crucial step to healthy skin. 

Get plenty of rest and consider a vitamin supplement. Rest and nutrition are keys to keeping your body at it’s best, and in turn, your hair, nails and  skin as well. You not only want to look good, but FEEL good too. Vitamins will help make you feel more energized and make up for things your body may be lacking during such stressful times and sleep is essential to keeping the body rested  and reducing stress breakouts. 

Limit caffeine, alcohol and stress as MUCH as much as possible. Find your zen. Nothing is ever perfect , but following basic rules of skincare and common sense will surely make it close enough.

Establishing the above listed habits now will make it easier to continue them after and be the healthy, happy woman he chose to marry in the first place;)

FROM THE OUTSIDE IN:

Now is not the time to go experimenting with new skincare products or procedures. Doing so days before a wedding could result in irritation, redness and breakouts. Plan to have any serious skincare procedures done at least 4-8 weeks before your wedding to give skin a chance to calm down and adjust to any new products you may have chosen. Special circumstances aside, daily care and once weekly exfoliation should keep your skin fresh, deeply cleansed and clear. 

Brow grooming should be done 3-5 days before the wedding. This will allow time for the redness to dissipate and if needed, only a few hairs will need to be plucked. Other than that, the shaping and clean look will make the most of your features and makeup so don’t forget this step. The same applies for lip waxing. Do so 3- 5 days before the wedding.

If you like a sun kissed glow, try using a skin moisturizer that offers a gradual increase in color. You want to look naturally sunkissed, not sun abused. Best to begin this about 6-8 weeks before the wedding.

The night before your wedding, wash face well, lightly exfoliate (lips too!) , rinse well and pat dry. Apply a drying lotion (Mario Badescu makes an excellent one) to any pimples you may have. Follow up with a lip balm a good moisturizer and get plenty of rest.

In the morning, rinse face well with warm water  and follow up with a very cold washcloth to tighten large pores and wake up your face. Follow up with your regular moisturizer. Avoid one with a high SPF as SPF products tend to have an adverse effect of flash photography. Allow it to settle in well before applying anything else. If you get a pimple, DO NOT pop it. It is easier to cover the bump than to cover the redness that will surely come with having an open sore on your face.  If you are having your makeup done by a Makeup Artist, please consult them on how to prepare.

THE RESULT:

There is never a guarantee with our bodies and skin, but these simple steps should keep most issues at bay and allow you to be your best on your wedding day;) And the end result is when you LOOK better on the outside, you FEEL better on the inside on your wedding day, and EVERYday.

Best of luck and congratulations!

Kristine Marie

NOTE :

If you need suggestions in the Hampton Roads area for a Day Spa specializing in TOTAL BODY CARE (Skin, Nails, Hair, Brows, Waxing) or a Dermatologist – please let me know. I am happy to assist you with quality options.

Part two in this series is here:

https://kristinemarie.wordpress.com/2009/09/23/bridal-makeup-flawless-foundation/