Common Wedding Skin Care Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Planning a wedding is no walk in the park but rather a flurry of to-do lists and excitement. For many brides, it’s also a time of immense pressure, especially when it comes to looking your best. Part of that sought-after bridal glow stems from achieving radiant, flawless skin. 

Unfortunately, in the days, weeks, and months leading up to the big day, many brides and grooms unintentionally make skincare mistakes. These mistakes could spell disaster on the long-awaited day, potentially leading to untimely breakouts, irritation, or other skin woes. 

So, as you prep for your wedding, here are a few of the most common wedding skincare mistakes and what you can do to avoid them. 

Trying New Treatments Too Close to the Wedding

It’s tempting to schedule that exciting new facial or chemical peel you’ve been eyeing, especially as you work toward achieving beautiful, glowy skin for the big day. But if your wedding day is less than six months away, it’s best to steer clear of those treatments as a first-timer. 

Trying new skincare treatments could lead to reactions such as redness, irritation, or breakouts that occur unexpectedly, leaving you scrambling for solutions during an already stressful time. So, do yourself a favor by planning ahead and stick with what you know. 

If you want to try the latest and greatest skincare treatment, schedule it no less than three to six months before your wedding. This way, you can see how your skin reacts and complete a series of treatments to achieve optimal results. 

If you’re a few months or weeks out from the big day, keep it simple by sticking with what your skin already knows and loves. Avoid introducing unfamiliar ingredients or procedures in the weeks leading up to the wedding. If you simply can’t wait, chat with your dermatologist before scheduling the appointment. 

Overloading Your Skincare Routine 

Overloading, in an attempt to achieve that perfect skin, usually (unfortunately) makes things worse. Layering active ingredients like retinoids, acids, and vitamin C can irritate and dry out your skin, making things worse rather than better. 

So, to keep your skin on the right track, keep your routine very simple. Stick to the basics: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. When you do incorporate active ingredients, space them out appropriately so you’re not over-exfoliating or causing sensitivity.

If you want to add something new to your skincare routine but aren’t sure how it’ll react to your other skincare products, chat with your dermatologist. This way, you can avoid unnecessary complications that dim the bridal glow. 

Neglecting SPF

Failing to prioritize sun protection is a common error that can lead to sunburns, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging—all of which can worsen your skin’s appearance. Even incidental sun exposure, such as while preparing the outdoor components of your wedding, can damage your skin. 

Thankfully, the fix is simple: use daily SPF. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that is SPF 30 or above. Apply it every morning, regardless of the weather (even if it’s cloudy!). Reapply throughout the day as needed. 

If you want a bit of coverage to go along with your sunscreen for a little oomph of color, go with a tinted sunscreen. This can help even out your skin tone for a smoother, more even complexion while still protecting your skin. 

Don’t forget to choose a sunscreen formulated for the face. Sunscreens for the body can be heavy and thick, potentially making your face break out or become irritated. Products designed specifically for the face are often light and easy to apply. 

DIY Skincare Mishaps 

While you might be tempted to try that ultra-easy DIY skincare peel, scrub, or mask you spotted on your Instagram or Pinterest feed, it’s best to avoid these before your wedding. Though not very expensive, peeling, scrubbing, or masking on your own might be too harsh or simply inappropriate for your skin. 

These DIY mixes often contain ingredients like lemon juice, baking soda, or scrubbers that are too harsh and can actually cause breakouts, redness, and inflammation (instead of smoothing it out). 

So, to be on the safe side, always opt for professional-grade products. Chat with your dermatologist to determine what products are right for your skin and have been tested for safety and efficiency. Leave the fancy DIY peels, scrubs, and masks to the professionals. 

If you really want to enjoy a bit of DIY skincare, opt for the relaxation options designed to soothe the skin. Honey masks or oatmeal soothing baths, both common DIY relaxation options, are very unlikely to cause irritation for most people. 

Poor Diet and Hydration Habits

What goes on within shows on the outside. Too much sugar, processed foods, or alcohol can cause breakouts, dullness, and dehydration. Dehydrated skin, in particular, can result in an uneven and cakey appearance after makeup which doesn’t look or photograph well. 

To avoid making this mistake, hone in on your diet and hydration habits. Focus on nutrient-dense foods, including antioxidant-laden fruits and veggies, lean proteins, and healthy fats (like avocado and nuts) to nourish the skin from the inside out. 

Drink lots of water, too. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day. Add hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and leafy greens to the mix to keep things from getting too boring. 

Of course, it’s quite okay to have your favorite goodies once in a while, especially in the exciting days, weeks, and months leading up to your wedding. After all, your marriage is something to celebrate! But it’s important to consume them in moderation to ensure you can approach your wedding day with gloriously radiant skin. 

Achieve Radiant, Glowy Skin for Your Wedding With Clarus Dermatology

Glowy wedding day skin is possible and without overdoing it, too. It all comes down to well-planned and informed preparation in advance. Planning treatments in advance, simplifying your skincare, slathering on SPF, avoiding certain DIY methods, and caring for your body from the inside out all set you up for success. 

Remember, each skin care journey is unique. If you’re unsure about your approach, consult our skilled dermatologists at Clarus Dermatology for personalized advice. With the right strategy, you’ll achieve the glowing complexion you’ve always dreamed of—perfect for walking down the aisle.