Bridal Skin Prep Guide
Welcome to your Bridal Era!
I am thrilled that you've chosen me to accompany you on this beautiful journey. As your trusted beauty best friend, I'm here to offer guidance and ensure you shine as the best version of yourself on your special day.
Remember, none of these details are mandatory; they serve as a helpful guideline for you to embrace in whatever way feels right for you.
your beauty journey
Your beauty journey begins the moment you book with me (yay!) and extends well beyond your wedding day. I’ve put together a 12-month beauty timeline filled with recommendations to follow leading up to your special day. These suggestions stem from my personal experience, along with insights from trusted industry professionals. Please note that while I am a professional makeup artist, I am not a licensed esthetician. Any skincare advice I provide should be viewed as general guidance rather than a guaranteed solution for your needs.
If you have significant skincare concerns or specific goals, it's best to consult with a dermatologist or a trusted esthetician. A simple consultation can help clarify your skincare objectives and establish a plan to ensure your skin is in perfect condition for the big day. I hope my guidelines below set you on the right path; however, if you receive alternative advice from a dermatologist or esthetician, please prioritize their recommendations, as they have the expertise to guide you best.
The art of preparation:
the art of preparation
12 Months Prior
Now we dive into the REAL work... If you don’t yet have a reliable skincare routine, it's time to prioritize establishing one. This ritual should be a soothing experience that you look forward to both morning and night. Admittedly, there will be evenings when you're utterly exhausted and may lack the energy to thoroughly remove your makeup, but remember, those two extra minutes now will make a significant impact on your most important day.
I've included my product recommendations under each category for your convenience. If you'd like to explore my entire ShopMy Page, you'll find all products recommendations listed by category. Should you have any specific product inquiries or desire personalized recommendations, please reach out, and I'll gladly create a tailored shopping list for you.
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DAY time routine
Cleanse:
A morning cleanse is not always required especially if you have dry skin. In the winter I tend to skip this step and just blot my skin with a tissue to remove any access product from the night before. Most of the time I like to use a cream cleanser that foams up with water, I find these give me a good cleanse without stripping my skin which allows for seamless skincare application.
Cleanser Recommendations →Serum & Moisturizer:
I have always found it’s best to keep your morning skincare regimen light, especially on days were you are planning on wearing makeup. A simple serum depending on your needs (hydration, brightening, etc). A moisturizer AND a separate sunscreen is all you need.
Day Time Serums →Day Time Moisturizer Recommendations →sunscreen recommendations →
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NIGHT time routine
Makeup Remover:
Always remove your makeup with a micellar water. I apply it on a cotton pad to wipe off all makeup. If I’m wearing heavy eye makeup I will use an eye makeup remover as well. Please don’t use a makeup wipe. They are extremely harsh and will strip your skin and leave it raw. The only time I use one is while I’m working to remove product off of my hands quickly, or to remove a lip stain. If you are in a pinch, a baby wipe will work pretty well.
makeup removers →Double Cleanse:
I’m sure this may seem excessive to those who don’t wear much makeup on a daily basis, but this will assure all product, dirt, and build up from the day is removed throughly from your face. I recommended starting with an oil cleaners or a balm cleanser. I think follow up with a gentle cleanser like a gel cleaners to really clean the skin. If you are in need of some exfoliation, you can use and exfoliating cleaners as your skin step.
Cleanser Recommendations →Treatment Products:
Actives, toners, or exfoliants would be applied prior to serum and moisture. These recommendations are highly dependent on your skin type and goals. I personally like to use an active such as a BHA/AHA to exfoliate my skin well about once a week. This will help brighten and tighten your skin.
If you find you have flaky dry skin or you notice your skin starts to look scaly when you apply makeup, you should consider adding a physical exfoliant to your routine as well. With all of this types of products, ease your way into use to see how your skin reacts.
Toners →Actives →Exfoliants →Serums & Moisturizers:
Next you would apply your serums and moisturizers. These would all depending on your skin type, issues and goals for your skin. I have included some of my favorites below along with details on what each product is beneficial for. If you have dry skin, it won’t hurt to apply extra moisturizer, especially during the drier months. Your skin needs to rejuvenate and heal over night, so now is the time to let it all soak in.
Night Time Serums →Night Time Moisturizers →
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6 months prior
It's time to pamper yourself! Now is the perfect opportunity to begin monthly treatments that will effectively care for your skin. I suggest scheduling monthly facials or laser treatments tailored to address your specific skin concerns.
I have complete confidence in the incredible women at La Piel Laser Center for all your facial and laser treatment needs. They form an exceptional team dedicated to providing a transparent and straightforward treatment plan tailored just for you. Right now, they're excited to offer my clients a $50 discount on your first service when you use the referral link provided. Don't miss this opportunity to experience top-notch care and rejuvenate your skin!
La Piel Referral Link →
If you are interested in exploring botox (no pressure!) you definitely want to consider that now or sooner if possible. Dr. Sri at Chicago Aesthetics Club is the only person I trust for injectables. She focuses on creating a natural look that perfectly balances your facial features. Dr. Sri is generously offering my clients 20% off of your first botox session and $100 off your first filler treatment. Just mention you a client of mine for this discount.
If you're considering incorporating at-home devices like microcurrent tools, LED masks, or enhancement products such as lash serums or hair vitamins, now is the perfect opportunity to add them to your routine. This way, you can evaluate the results a few months before the wedding, ensuring you're satisfied with the outcomes.
At home devices →Lash Serum/supplements →
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3 months prior
Test out spray tan, brow wax, brow/lash tint, all the fun stuff! None of these are necessities, but if you are interested in doing them for the wedding, you would definitely want to test them out at least once prior to the wedding.
Also, if you can coordinate them with your makeup preview which will be scheduled around this time, that would be a huge plus! I highly recommend Beauty Commons for all of these services. Their entire staff is amazing!
The big day is just around the corner, and we want to ensure you feel your absolute best! Keep up with your routine by prioritizing sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, and staying hydrated. If you'll be spending time in the sun, be mindful of tan lines, especially on your wrists, and remember to apply sunscreen diligently!
I can't wait to help you shine on your special day!
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