Wedding skincare: Dermatologist tips and tricks for photo-ready skin
Don’t let skin concerns dampen the excitement of your big day. We’ve called on the experts to help you build a simple but effective wedding skincare routine
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Those whose big day has come and gone will know: there’s a never-ending to-do list when it comes to planning a wedding. From finding the venue of your dreams to securing the dress, there’s naturally a lot to think about. But, one thing you shouldn’t have to worry about? Your skin.
While our skin’s microbiome can be temperamental due to factors beyond our control – from hormones to climate – data suggests that image insecurities are in a bride’s top 10 worries leading up to their big day. To soothe concerns, we speed-dialled celebrity dermatologist Shane Cooper – famous for helping the likes of Maya Jama, Sienna Miller, Poppy Delevigne and Nicola Coughlan achieve ‘red carpet-ready’ skin – to put together a skincare routine designed to improve complexion, minimise pores and quell common qualms.
There are several non-invasive ways to either boost your skin’s natural appearance or target areas of concern. And, for the last-minute brides out there, the good news is that three to six months is plenty of time to turn things around – and it’s not all about new products and expensive facials either. “Maintaining skin health from the inside out is vital,” explains Cooper. “Probiotics can support gut health, which in turn benefits the skin. Drinking plenty of water can also help give the body a good head start.” Read on to discover Cooper’s simple but effective wedding skincare routine – you’re welcome.
Must-try facials
Working out of his exclusive salon in South Kensington, Cooper starts bridal appointments three-six months in advance of the wedding and begins by assessing the current condition of their skin as well as discussing any specific concerns and goals. “Typically, a one-off exclusive face treatment is recommended one week before the event to ensure the skin looks its best on the day,” explains Cooper. “Regular treatments leading up to the event offer the best results, providing a solid foundation for advanced facials closer to the date.”
Aqua Tight Treatments
This advanced treatment, suitable for all skin types, uses a water-based peel with sequential acids, mesoporation with hyaluronic acid, and a diamond-grain handpiece for exfoliation. “It includes an oxygenation mask and radio frequency for collagen regeneration, aiming to deliver a smoother, brighter complexion, tighter skin, and reduced fine lines. The treatment offers deep hydration, skin brightening, and a glowing complexion with zero downtime,” says Cooper.
Bespoke facials
“For a more personal approach, this tailored treatment involves various techniques, such as exfoliation, micro-currents, tri-polar radio-frequency, and medical LED phototherapy, to rejuvenate and enhance the skin,” says Cooper. Additional options like medical microneedling and dermaplaning can also be added to remove fine hairs and improve skin elasticity.
Must-have products
In the months before the wedding, it’s essential to incorporate high-quality skincare products that address hydration, protection, and overall skin health. Here are the products to buy now and use on the run up to the big day.
Step 1: Hydrating products
Cooper says: “Oxygenation masks enhance skin hydration and oxygenation, leaving the skin glowing and refreshed. It combines liposomal encapsulated oxygen with vitamin E to provide intense hydration and moisture that lasts. Also opt for a hyaluronic mist to provide an extra layer of hydration, crucial for achieving a dewy and plump skin appearance.”
Step 2: SPF
Protecting your skin from penetrating UV rays is essential in any skincare routine, but especially during the months leading up to your big day. As well as fending off sunburn (no one wants to be the shade of a lobster on their wedding day), SPF is proven to reverse the signs of ageing, as well as reduce the size of the wrinkles, spots and loss of elasticity caused by exposure to the sun.
Step 3: Medical-grade skincare
“These products can provide more effective results and may include ingredients like retinoids, antioxidants, and peptides to improve skin texture, tone, and firmness,” says Cooper. It is important to note, however, that due to their potency, these ingredients should be introduced slowly to help the skin create tolerance and avoid irritation. Please consult a medical professional before using.
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