Younger Looking Skin – Look like You’re 20 on Your Wedding Day

No matter what a bride’s unique aesthetic preference is, there’s one thing they all can agree on – the impending bridal glow! Every bride-to-be dreams of a fresh, smooth and flawless skin before she walks down the aisle, but the ever-elusive flawless skin can be hard to achieve with all the stress that’s taking a toll on them. Sometimes, this tends to make brides look older than they really are – something they can’t really thank stress for. Uncontrolled stress can snowball before the wedding, ruining the bride’s big day with skin dullness and breakouts. Stress is unavoidable, yes, but is it really worth it if it ruins your looks for your big day? We don’t think so. 

Worry not! We spoke to the industry expert, Ramani Fernando, to find out the nitty-gritty of an approved skin-care regime for you to have that flawless skin on your big day. Here’s how you can ace that bridal glow in no time. Jump to the next line!

Why do most young brides look older than they are on their wedding day?

One of the main reasons is stress. Wedding preparations can bring you to your worst, affecting your skin before your important day. Other factors consists of the bride’s hair and makeup not suiting her face shape or appearance, making her look more mature. Apart from this, hangovers on the wedding day could make a bride look worn out. Thus, I think having your bachelorette party about a week before the wedding would be ideal, so that it would prevent you from having a hangover during your nuptial.

What are the common causes of skin aging?

Smoking and Drinking

We all know that smoking and drinking in excess is not good for us. They lead to all kinds of health problems and deplete necessary nutrients from our bodies. Additionally, the lines and discoloration of a smoker or a drinker are worn all over their face. The skin needs a certain amount of hydration, collagen, elastin, and oxygen in order to look youthful and healthy.

Sun, Cold and Moisture

We can easily accelerate our aging process by basking in the sun’s rays. Sun damage is the number one cause of wrinkles and permanent skin damage. Age spots and other forms of discoloration can be seriously exacerbated by the sun’s harmful UV rays. 

Stress

Highly stressful lives are a good recipe for aging. Apart from the effect of facial wrinkles, stress affects everything from the way we carry ourselves to our energy level. People who are consumed by daily stress do not walk tall and proud like people who feel good about themselves. They move slower and they challenge their bodies less. People who are overwhelmed with stress also tend to have illnesses that can help the aging process to quicken. 

What are the preventive steps a bride-to-be can take against skin aging in her usual beauty routine?

If you really want to get your skin in top form, it’s recommended that you start a smart skincare routine about a year in advance. It’s okay if you don’t have that long before the wedding day. Just adopt these good skincare habits as soon as possible.

Schedule Professional Facials

Your wedding is the perfect excuse for some extra pampering. You will want to book monthly facials to refresh your skin. Experienced aestheticians will massage your skin, scalp and décolletage to stimulate blood circulation and keep your skin looking healthy.

Manage Excess Facial Oil 

If you're on the go, blotting papers will help keep your face shine-free. If you need a more advanced grease solution, streamline your routine. Use a mild face wash, skip the toner and add a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser. Excessive face washing will kick oil production into overdrive.

Use Skin-Specific Moisturiser

All moisturisers are not created to suit all skin types. Look for the one that caters to your skin concerns. For oily skin, you don't want to add much moisture, but you do want to hydrate.

Are there specific pre-bridal pampering or skin care treatments available? 

There are plenty of customisable pampering packages available to cater to a bride’s specific needs, ranging from different facials to spa manicures and pedicures.

What’s your take on the skin supplements available in the market? 

There are various skin and hair supplements available in the market nowadays. As a policy, I do not recommend taking supplements unless advised by a doctor.

How do you get rid of bags under eyes?

• Apply tea bags. Tea isn't just for sipping.

• Use a cold compress under the eye area to reduce puffiness.

• Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is key.

• Add retinol cream to your routine to help with puffiness and dark circles.

• Wear sunscreen every day.

How do you prevent and remove spots on your face?

Keep your face clean

Whether you have acne or not, it’s vital to wash your face twice a day to remove impurities, dead skin cells, and extra oil from your skin’s surface. 

Moisturise

Many acne products contain ingredients that dry the skin, so always use a moisturiser that minimises dryness and skin peeling. Look for "non-comedogenic" on the label, which means it would not cause acne. There are moisturisers made for oily, dry or combination skin.

Watch what you put on your hair

Avoid using fragrances, oils, pomades or gels on your hair. If they get on your face, they can block your skin’s pores and irritate your skin. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Oily hair can add to the oil on your face, so wash your hair often.

How can the bridal outfit, hair and makeup make a bride look younger? 

Remember that less is more with foundation.

It may be tempting to grab a full-coverage base and camouflage everything in sight, but that's the wrong approach. Too much makeup will just settle into lines and wrinkles and make your face feel heavy. Go with a sheer, light-reflecting foundation. It will provide just enough coverage to blur imperfections, while also brightening your face.

Lips

Yep, another area to thin as we age!

Dark colours will make your lips appear smaller while pink based nudes or berry colours will give the illusion of fuller lips! Mwah! Avoid matte lip colours, as these can also be drying. Instead look for dewy ones. I use a lipstick that has anti-aging and deeply nourishing ingredients!

Fit and flare silhouettes

The fit and flare wedding gown, or more particularly, the mermaid style dress which fits your curves closely along the torso, and then opens into a wide skirt, is considered one of the most sexy silhouettes of all times. While this is a favorite among brides, the typical sweetheart neckline that is usually paired with these gowns may not be appreciated by moms. The solution is to strike a balance between the two. These, for sure, will help the bride look younger.

Hairdos

Here’s a list of hairstyles that could help a bride look younger:

• Classic Low Chignon

• Elegant, Vintage-Style Curls

• Romantic Updo 

• Simple, Twisted Chignon

• Long, Smooth Curls

• Half-Up, Half-Down Waterfall Braid

What's your secret tip for brides to prep their skin the day before Big Day?

• Try and relax as much as possible – Do anything that relaxes you like take a bath, read a book or watch a great film.

• Give your skin, face and body a treatment – It’s best to use a cold compress on your face the night before or the morning of your wedding day.

• Drink plenty of water or coconut water – A hydrated skin always looks better, feels softer and creates a natural glow.

• Eat carefully and eat light – Do not be tempted to eat anything that may upset your tummy. Opt for light foods like salads, soups and fruits as they’re easier to digest and they’re good for your hair and skin too.

• Sleep – Go to bed at a reasonable time and sleep well. You need your energy!