Every bride wants that dewy glow on their wedding day. Too often we think great skin means time-intensive – and sometimes painful – treatments or routines.  But getting that healthy supple feeling doesn’t have to be difficult and results can be instant! 

And brides aren’t the only ones looking for ways to improve the appearance of their skin.  These days men don’t shy away from self-care as they once did.  This advice can be used regardless of gender as well as for those just beginning to take skin care seriously.

Wondering how to get that soft smooth appearance? It’s simple with three rules! 

First, drink plenty of water daily. 

Second, exfoliate your skin. 

Last, but just as critical, moisturize and shimmer lotions. By following these three steps, you can have that glamorous look by your wedding date.

Increase water intake

Water is key to healthy supple skin. Your skin is your body’s largest organ, which is made up of millions of cells. Every one of those cells is made up of water. Maintaining proper hydration will help your skin replenish moisture. When your skin is optimally hydrated, the elasticity increases, thus reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The results from increased hydration are most profound after a few weeks.

The general rule of thumb is to drink at least 8 glasses of water – for a total of 64 ounces – throughout the day.  Some people are able to drink more while others struggle.  It’s perfectly fine to flavor your water with fruit or single use mixes, but be cautious of using anything with sugar or caffeine as these can cause dehydration.  The more plain, filtered you drink the better it is in terms of your health and your complexion.

Exfoliate

Exfoliation is the key to brighten facial skin, smooth rough patches, fade acne scars, and improve dark spots. For those of us looking for dramatic results, this step instantly brightens your overall complexion.  You’ll get the best results from your skincare products when your skin is free from layers of oils and sloshed off the cells.

Exfoliation is the most important part of getting that dewy glow on your special day! Chemical and physical exfoliators are the two mainstream options. Knowing the difference between the two can give you an idea which is best for your skin.

The physical method is more rudimentary and most harmful to your face. This process involves using gritty scrubs and textured brushes to physically scrub away the top surface of the skin. The use of physical force can result in microscopic tears that cause skin damage. The results can be dramatic but they are not immediately noticeable.  In fact, this process can leave your skin looking red and irritated for a day or so.  this is fine and totally normal, but it means it isn’t what you want to do immediately before your wedding day.

If you want that beautiful glow, be safe and go with chemical exfoliation. Although the words sound harsh, using chemical exfoliation acids is the most gentle and safest way to rid your face from layers of dead skin cells. Unlike physical exfoliation, chemical exfoliation dissolves the skin cells that are tightly bound together. Once this layer has dissolved a brighter, smoother skin is revealed instantly!

Start low and build yourself up slowly. Choose one exfoliant and stick with it. Keep in mind this process makes your skin more sensitive to the sun. Remember to shield your skin with sunscreen or a hat.

Moisturizer

Maintaining moisture in your skin is key to maintaining that dewy glow on your wedding day and beyond. However, when the skin is weighted down by oils, moisture cannot penetrate to keep the skin optimally hydrated. Properly exfoliated skin enhances your moisturizer potential.  The best time to apply moisturizer is right after a shower.

There are many different moisturizers to choose from. Start with creams with lemons, grapefruits, or other citric fruits. These ingredients will brighten your skin and speed up the production of new skin cells. Moisturizers with hyaluronic acid will help attract water to your skin and keep it there. Those with sensitive skin or allergies can also speak with a dermatologist or qualified esthetician to find out which specific brands are best for their skin.

Another option for an immediate boost is shimmering lotion. The shimmering lotion gives your skin an instant glow. Anyone can quickly see results after one use. When your skin is hydrated, exfoliated, and moist, shimmer creams immediately gives you a touch of glamour.

Lasting Looks for Everyone

This advice will surely help many brides and grooms look their best on their wedding day, but skin health should be a lifelong commitment.  As we age, our face tends to hang on longer and longer to dead cells.   The cycle of dead cells and oils is never-ending. Establishing a daily facial routine should be as automatic as brushing your teeth. Get the most out of your skincare regimen and keep going after your wedding day. Your skin will thank you.