FA SHION & BE AUT Y
Let’s face it: Muddling through all the beauty advice out there is the last thing you want to add to your already-crazed to-do list. And while some beauty myths are easy to spot (no, that pricey cream won’t really erase your pores), others are harder to figure out (does naturally oily skin really need a moisturizer?). We asked the experts to set the record straight on some of the most common bridal beauty misconceptions—so you can focus on the important stuff before your day.
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MYTH Committing to a solid skin care routine will instantly transform your skin. FACT Slathering on new skin care products (even the expensive, super-fancy kind) is not a quick fix. Get a jump on perfecting your complexion and start your new skin care routine when you first start planning your wedding. “Most skin care products take six to eight weeks to work. You may even experience a purging effect, where skin gets worse before it gets better,” says Lian Mack, MD, a dermatologist and spokeswoman for Lumenis. And, if you’re looking to treat serious skin issues such as acne, wrinkles or uneven skin tone with more intense treatments (think: neurotoxins like Botox, peels or fractional laser resurfacing) you may need several weeks or even months to complete the suggested amount of treatments and fully recover in order to see results. “Give yourself enough time to be certain you have no complications and are totally happy with the outcome before you walk down the aisle,” Mack says.
keep it simple If you have a more natural approach to beauty, don’t feel pressured to go for an elaborate updo plus heavy makeup for your wedding.
MYTH More is more. FACT Your wedding may seem like the perfect moment to pull out
all the stops, but it’s actually not the time to try something drastic where your hair and makeup are concerned. For example, if you typically have a more natural approach to beauty, don’t feel pressured to go for an elaborate updo plus heavy makeup. “You should still look and feel like yourself on your wedding day,” says celebrity makeup artist Wendy Rowe. “You don’t need to try anything new or extreme—you just need to enhance what’s already there.” Rowe suggests sticking to products you know will work for you. “If you want to take your makeup up a notch, flawless foundation, some concealer, and a pretty lip and cheek stain are little details that can really elevate your look,” she says.
FACT Collagen pills, powders and creams are all the rage right
now, promising smoother, firmer, more youthful skin—but are they the real deal? “Few reputable studies have been done on collagen supplements,” says Ted Lain, MD, a dermatologist. “The claim that these supplements increase the collagen content of the skin, leading to improvement in wrinkling and texture, are unfortunately untrue.” Rather than stocking up on trendier formulas, Lain suggests using a moisturizer with hydrating ingredients like glycerin to boost your glow.
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FACT It sounds counterintuitive, but you shouldn’t skip moisturizer if you have an oily complexion or T-zone. Drying out your skin can actually increase its oil production, creating a vicious cycle of clogged pores and breakouts. “Moisturizers are used to improve your skin’s water content, not its oil content,” says celebrity facialist Cecilia Wong. “The right moisturizers or serums for your skin type won’t leave a greasy residue behind.” Wong suggests avoiding heavy moisturizers with mineral oil, petroleum, lanolin and coconut oil that won't absorb as easily, and instead seeking out lighter formulas with grapeseed and sunflower oils or hyaluronic acid. >>
ISTOCK
MYTH Oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer. MYTH Collagen supplements can reverse the signs of aging.
10/9/18 12:02 PM