Hey there, beautiful people! The minimalist, ultra natural, dewy skin is trending right now but to have that look means your skin needs to be healthy & in tip top shape. So we’re here to spill the tea on how to get your skin ready for that look! We all want that radiant, flawless complexion that will make you shine like a diamond as you walk down the aisle but many times we can get confused along the way. Don’t worry- we’re here to help!

Step 1: Start Early - The Sooner, the Better
Listen up - Rome wasn't built in a day, & neither is perfect skin. Begin your skincare journey at least six months before the big day. This may sound like a long time, but trust me, it's totally worth it. Starting early ensures that your skin has ample time to adapt to new products and treatments without any last-minute surprises.If you have less time don’t panic! You just may be more likely to implement Step 5 below to streamline choices for desired results.

Step 2: Cleanse & Exfoliate
Let's get down to the basics, shall we? The key to flawless skin lies in maintaining a clean canvas. Gently cleanse your face twice a day using a mild cleanser that suits your skin type. Say goodbye to that stubborn dirt & grime while keeping your skin's natural oils intact. With cleansing comes exfoliation. Exfoliation is your secret weapon to unveil smooth, baby-soft skin. Incorporate a gentle exfoliant into your routine two to three times a week, sloughing off dead skin cells & revealing your skin's true radiance. There is a difference between chemical & physical exfoliation. Ideally you will find a balance of using both for the smoothest, most glowy skin.

Step 3: Quench Your Skin's Thirst with Hydration
Dry skin? Ain't nobody got time for that on their wedding day. Dry skin will make any makeup look flaky & crease. Hydration is key! Invest in a quality moisturizer that fits your skin type & use it religiously, day and night. Ideally you will have a lightweight moisturizer for the morning to wear throughout the day & a heavier moisturizer to were overnight. This will keep your skin plump, supple, & ready for that flawless makeup application. Also hydrate internally by drinking LOTS of water. Limit dehydrating drinks the closer you get to the big day.

Step 4: Treat Yo' Skin to Some Extra Love
Now, let's kick it up a notch. Add a serum to your skincare arsenal for extra nourishment. Look for serums with ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or retinol to help even out your skin tone, boost collagen production, and reduce pesky fine lines. Apply a few drops of serum every evening, and watch your skin transform into a glow goddess.

Step 5: Get Professional Help
Girl, it's time to enlist the pros. Schedule regular facials with a licensed esthetician every four to six weeks leading up to your wedding day. A skilled esthetician will assess your skin's needs and recommend treatments tailored to your specific concerns, be it acne, pigmentation, or that dreaded stress-induced breakout. Trust me, these experts will work miracles and have you walking down that aisle looking like a radiant superstar.

Step 6: Don't Forget the Sunscreen
Picture this: a sun-kissed honeymoon glow without the sun damage. Sounds fabulous, right? Incorporate SPF into your daily skincare routine, even if it's pouring outside. This step is non-negotiable, darling. Protect your skin from harmful UV rays to prevent premature aging and maintain that youthful glow.

Step 7: Diet, Exercise, and Beauty Sleep
Yep, you knew this one was coming. Your skin needs some love from within too. Nourish your body with a healthy, balanced diet loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, & minerals. Limit inflammatory foods such as dairy. Break a sweat with regular exercise, as it improves circulation and gives your skin a natural glow. And last but not least, beauty sleep is not an old wives' tale, my friends. Get your seven to eight hours of shut-eye to wake up looking refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to conquer the world (or rather, your wedding).

Step 8: Don’t Pick!

Everyone gets a breakout or pimple hear & there. Yes, it’s natural to want to pop, pick & get rid of it any way we can but you need to resist! By popping & picking you will irritate the skin more, possible cause it to spread or even scarring. Instead spot treat & ice. Both will cause it to reduce inflammation, redness & go away quicker.

Step 9: Create a Clean Environment

How often do you wash your pillow cases & sheets? Pillowcase should be washed at least 1x a week but 2x is better. Your pillowcase has all the sweat & oil from your scalp & the grime of being out in the world. All of that is going directly on your face & causing breakouts as well as less than ideal skin. Many skin efficienados have 2 sets of pillowcases so they don’t have to frantically do laundry mid week.

Remember, flawless skin isn’t magical or overnight, but the end result is worth every single step. So, go ahead, gorgeous - start prepping and get ready to radiate confidence on your big day!

Till next time, beauties! XOXO

Get Ready to Glow: Prepping Your Skin to be Wedding Ready

The Stylist Abroad