can be doing to ensure a natural glow on your wedding day. You’ll want to start off by incorporating some exfoliation, if you haven’t done so already. Exfoliating at least once a week is a great reset for the body and clears any remaining gunk that can be lurking in pores. This does wonders for brightening the skin and reducing breakouts. If sugar scrubs aren’t your style and you’re looking for something less fragranced, then salicylic acid body cleansers are a brilliant alternative. Salicylic acid is known for reducing texture and making skin look clearer – reach for this over a scrub for a more hands on approach. Next, you’ll want to invest in some hydrating products; hydration can and should start in the shower with moisturising shower gels, but getting some regular moisturisers will be a vital investment. There seems to be some confusion regarding the difference between lotions and butters – butters are a more indulgent version of lotions and would be better suited to before-bed rituals, as they take longer to skin in. Sun cream is imperative for protecting your skin at all times of the year. It’s easy to incorporate and can keep your skin looking young and protected from cancer. Whilst the desire to be bronzed for your wedding is present for a lot of people, there are healthier ways to do this. Of course, you can go down the classic sunbathing routine (with plenty of protection), but fake tanning offers a UV-damage free alternative. Start testing out different fake tans at least six months before the wedding and find your winner. The six-month trial period will also be the perfect opportunity to nail the application – no tiger stripes here! To ensure an even layer of tan, you need to consider body hair and the potential removal of it. There’s no requirement to be as smooth as a dolphin, however, if you are going to self-tan and not get it sprayed, you’ll need to do some surface work. Waxing is an increasingly popular hair removal choice and not as scary as you think. Perhaps in the year prior to your big day, you can schedule some wax appointments at your local salon. Alternatively, there’s plucking for small areas, classic shaving for larger and epilators for a speedy removal. HAIRCARE With everything else going on, we can’t neglect our hair. This may not require a full reset, but some revamping will certainly be in order. You’ll want to start off by checking out your scalp health – is it oily and needing a detox? Is it irritated and needing some moisture? From there, you can work out your new routine. Much like face masks, hair masks are key players in your routine. At least once a week, treat yourself to a hair mask to keep your hair happy and hydrated. You’ll also need to invest in other areas of your hair care; picking shampoos and conditioners that cater to your hair needs and not whatever’s cheapest. You’ll also want to add hair oils and heat protection to your basket! Silk/satin pillowcases are a worthwhile investment for your hair and skin care – the smooth fabric causes less friction and it more hygienic than the cases found in the bedding sets. A popular hair style for brides this season is the bouncy blow-dry: an effortlessly classy look that really shows off those healthy locks. Now is the time to start practising your blow dry skills for the countless celebrations that happen before the big day. For our short-haired readers, curly hair or curtain bangs are back! Picture Prince Charming when we say curtain bangs; this style goes handin-hand with the old-money style that a lot of people are emanating now. For real luxury in your hair care, add some hair perfume to keep your roots refreshed throughout the day. Hair perfume, if done properly, has little to no alcohol in it – this is because alcohol is a drying agent and would cause damage to your hair if applied. LOOKING YOUR BEST 81
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