Nobody's skin, hair and nails are flawless, but we all want them to look that way on our wedding day. Our resident beauty blogger Laura Curtis shares her tips for brides who want to look picture perfect in time for their day in the spotlight.
Acne
Adult acne is more common than you may think – not even beautiful Katy Perry is immune! Don't despair, there are effective ways to eradicate acne and its after-effects. First of all, find a product containing salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is a gentle chemical exfoliant that is able to penetrate through the upper layer of the skin into the pores, dissolving congestion and preventing further break-outs.
Alpha-H Age Delay Anti-Wrinkle Night Treatment is ultra-effective, combining 2% salicylic acid with anti-aging ingredients Vitamin A, Vitamin E and green tea extract. Secondly, incorporate a sulfur-based product into your evening regime, like Eve Lom Dynapot. It will reduce inflammation and heal your acne faster. Finally, use an oil-free moisturiser with hyaluronic acid. The hyaluronic acid will replenish your skin with moisture, without feeling heavy or exacerbating your acne. Kiehl's Sodium PCA Oil-Free Moisturiser is a lovely option, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth.
Lacklustre hair
If there is one day of our lives we deserve to have Victoria's Secret model hair, it should be our wedding day. Split ends, dry locks and a dull hue can all be rectified with the right products. To add shine, try Kerastase Elixir Ultime, a light, nourishing oil-based serum. A rich hair mask will achieve a soft, silky texture; Aveda Dry Remedy Moisturising Treatment Mask uses natural ingredients and smells divine. For a glistening sheen, ask your hairdresser to spritz Bumble & bumble Shine as a finishing touch on the day.
Pasty skin
As Cate Blanchett demonstrates, pale skin can be stunning. Pasty, however, is not so desirable, and presents itself with dullness and blotchiness. To give your skin an even, luminous tone, try using Cate's favourite radiance-boosting product SK-II Facial Treatment Essence, in place of your toner. A light-reflecting eye cream, such as Philosophy Eye Hope, will help to revive and refresh your eye area. On the day, ask your make-up artist to use an illuminator underneath your foundation. I love Mecca Luminous Skin Perfector.
Brittle nails
Too embarrassed to let the beauty therapist see your nails? Whipping them into shape will take a little time and effort, but it is super easy. Manicare's 3-Step Nail Buffer will strengthen your nails and add shine, while OPI Avoplex Cuticle Oil will keep your cuticles healthy and hydrated. Try to use them both at least a few times a week leading up to your wedding day. If your nails are weak and brittle, visit your local health food store and pick up some supplemental silica. It will do wonders for cracking or peeling nails.
My final tip: don't worry too much about looking perfect. Just smile and enjoy yourself! Remember, nobody will notice your pimple or chipped nail polish if you are having the time of your life. (And there is always photoshopping!)
Laura Curtis is a beauty writer and make-up artist. To see more of her writing and beauty advice, you can visit her blogs One April Morning and Pretty Poesy, and follow her on Twitter (@laura_valerie).
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