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How to Avoid Bridal Beauty Blunders
By Carley Lintz
CTW Features
For many brides, looking for your best on your wedding day goes beyond finding the perfect gown. It often involves months of healthy eating, exercising and a regimen of beauty treatments.
The last thing you want, then, is a last minute beauty disaster ruining your confidence and your wedding photos. Here is a quick guide to the do’s and don’ts of the most popular pre-wedding beauty treatments among brides today.
Microblading
What is it? Microblading is a form of semi-permanent eyebrow tattoo that uses small, individual strokes to mimic the look of read brow hairs.
Why is it right for brides? “This is an amazing service for brides because it means your brows will look amazing throughout your entire wedding – and honeymoon – without any makeup,” says Piret Aava, the “Eyebrow Doctor” in New York.
What are the risks? Microblading can last one to three years, so consult a professional to ensure you get the best results. Avoid using retinol prior to service and don’t wash or exfoliate your brows during the healing process.
When should I schedule? Aava recommends starting the process eight weeks before your wedding to leave time for touch ups.
Teeth Whitening
What is it? Teeth whitening treatments usually involve a hydrogen peroxide solution that is applied to teeth to breakdown stains either at home or in the dentist’s office.
Why is it right for brides? If you plan on spending much of your wedding smiling, you want to make sure your pearly whites also look their best.
What are the risks? Teeth whitening can lead to increased sensitivity, so consult a dentist before starting treatments. You should also avoid certain foods and drinks that might stain your new pearly whites like coffee or red wine.
When should I schedule? The full effects usually take 10-14 days, so start treatments at least two weeks out.
Facials/Peels
What is it? There are a wide range of professional skincare treatments, including facials, chemical peels, dermaplaning and microneedling, available from a dermatologist or aesthetician.
Why is it right for brides? Professional skincare treatments can ensure you achieve that newlywed glow – and avoid unsightly blemishes, discoloration or uneven texture.
What are the risks? Each treatment comes with its own set of risks, including allergic reaction, breakouts, bruising or scarring.
When should I schedule? Give yourself plenty of time to find the right skincare regimen by consulting a dermatologist six to eight months prior to the wedding. Many of these treatments cause peeling or redness, and therefore shouldn’t be done last minute.
Laser Hair Removal
What is it? Lasers are used to target hair follicles for more permanent removal than waxing for shaving. It can be used anywhere on the body, from underarms to the legs.
Why is it right for brides? For brides who aren’t into rocking the au-naturel look, laser hair removal offers longer lasting results.
What are the risks? Treatments can be painful and result in redness or irritation. There are also low risks of infection, burns or scarring.
When should I schedule? Full effects can take months to appear, so brides should start treatments six to 12 months in advance of their big day.
Spray Tan
What is it? Spray tanning is a fun mist that is applied to the body either manually by a technician, at home or by an automatic machine.
Why is it right for brides? Spray tanning is a great option for brides who want a sun-kissed glow in their wedding photos without the skin cancer risk.
What are the risks? Cheap or poorly applied tanners can have streaky results. Brides should also avoid applying lotions right before tanning or showering immediately after.
When should I schedule? Two to three days before your wedding will ensure you have optimum results (and give you time to fix any issues). Be sure to do a trial run a month or so in advance to test the color, too.
CTW Features