Wedding season is almost upon us! The rush, the nerves, the excitement, the drama… Oh what bliss.
Your wedding day is a momentous occasion, and naturally, you want to look your absolute best. But rather than diving into the latest skincare fads or piling on products, what if the secret to that bridal glow lies in dialling back to basics? The natural bride knows that less is often more, especially when it comes to skincare.
Let’s explore how embracing a simpler, more natural skincare routine can give you that coveted glow on your big day.
1. Start early and go natural
The key to radiant bridal skin is to start your skincare journey well before the wedding day. Aim to establish a routine at least six months ahead of time. This allows your skin to adjust, ensuring it’s in peak condition when it matters most.
Tip: Focus on products with natural ingredients. Look for those that contain organ oil, chamomile and cacao butter – known for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Eco Diva Natural’s range, for instance, offers a great selection of products that are both effective and free from harsh chemicals.
2. Hydration is everything
Water isn’t just the essence of life; it’s the essence of glowing skin. Staying hydrated helps
flush out toxins, keeping your skin clear and vibrant.
Did you know that drinking water can also help reduce puffiness under your eyes? When you’re hydrated, your body is less likely to retain water in all the wrong places.
Tip: Incorporate hydrating masks and serums into your routine. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C in serums are your best friends, as they draw moisture into the skin, leaving it plump and glowing.
3. Exfoliate, but don’t overdo it
Exfoliation is essential for removing dead skin cells and allowing your natural radiance to shine through. However, over-exfoliating can lead to irritation and breakouts – a bride’s worst nightmare.
Tip: Stick to gentle exfoliants like a natural enzyme peel or a dry exfoliator made from finely ground oats or seeds. Use it no more than twice a week to avoid over-stressing your skin.
4. The magic of oil cleansing
Oil cleansing may sound counterintuitive, especially if you’re prone to oily skin, but it’s a game-changer. This method not only removes makeup and impurities but also balances your skin’s natural oils, leaving it soft and supple.
Cleopatra was known to cleanse her skin with oils, and she’s still renowned for her beauty thousands of years later!
Tip: Opt for oils like jojoba, sweet almond or grapeseed oil. These are lightweight and won’t clog your pores. Massage the oil into your skin, then use a warm, damp cloth to gently wipe it away.
5. Beauty sleep is real
They don’t call it beauty sleep for nothing. Getting enough rest is crucial for maintaining that bridal glow. When you sleep, your skin goes into repair mode, regenerating cells and restoring moisture.
Tip: To maximise your beauty sleep, consider investing in a silk pillowcase. Not only is it gentler on your skin, but it also helps reduce friction, which can lead to fewer wrinkles and fine lines.
6. Mindful nutrition
What you put into your body is just as important as what you put on it. A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants will reflect in your skin.
Carrots are packed with betacarotene, which your body converts into vitamin A, essential for skin repair and growth. Plus, they give your skin a natural glow!
Tip: Incorporate plenty of leafy greens, fruits, nuts and seeds into your diet. These foods are high in antioxidants and healthy fats that promote glowing skin.
7. Stress less, glow more
Wedding planning can be stressful, but stress is the enemy of glowing skin. Stress triggers cortisol production, which can lead to breakouts and dullness.
Tip: Practise mindfulness techniques such as yoga or meditation to keep stress levels in check. A relaxed mind equals radiant skin.
8. DIY bridal masks
Sometimes, the best skincare treatments are the ones you make at home. DIY masks using ingredients like turmeric and avocado can nourish your skin without any added chemicals.
Avocado has been used for centuries for its antibacterial and moisturising properties. It’s perfect for giving your skin a pre-wedding glow!
Here’s a simple and effective vegan DIY face mask recipe that’s perfect for brides-to-be who want to achieve a radiant glow before their big day:
Radiant Glow Avocado & Oatmeal Mask
- 1/2 ripe avocado
- 2 tablespoons finely ground oatmeal
- 1 tablespoon organic coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon raw, organic agave syrup or maple syrup
- A few drops of rose water (optional, for added hydration)
- In a small bowl, mash the avocado until it’s smooth and free of lumps.
- Mix in the finely ground oatmeal. Oatmeal is soothing and helps to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and leaving your skin smooth and soft.
- Add the organic coconut oil and raw agave syrup. Coconut oil is deeply moisturising and helps to repair the skin’s barrier, while agave syrup is rich in antioxidants that promote a youthful glow.
- If you’re using rose water, add a few drops for an extra boost of hydration and a calming scent.
- Gently apply the mask to your clean face, avoiding the eye area. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Rinse off the mask with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry with a soft towel. Your skin should feel soft, hydrated and glowing!
Tip: For best results, use this mask once or twice a week leading up to your wedding day to maintain that natural bridal glow.
Achieving that bridal glow doesn’t have to be complicated. By dialling back to basics and focusing on natural, gentle skincare, you can walk down the aisle with confidence, knowing your skin is as radiant as your smile.
Remember, the best skincare routine is one that makes you feel good, inside and out. So, here’s to a glowing wedding day and a naturally beautiful you!
Nicole Sherwin
Founder: Eco Diva Superfood Skincare
Image credit: wayhomestudio/Freepik