15 Ways To Jump Start Your Bridal Beauty Routine

 

You're engaged—that means it's time to step up your daily beauty routine. We've talked to the pros, and we're arming you with the tools for looking your best before, during and after your wedding.

1. Schedule Weekly Manicures Face it

As soon as you get engaged, everyone is going to ask to see the ring. Keep those nails and hands primed and pretty with regular weekly manicures. This is your chance to experiment with colors (pretty mauves and pinks) and get to know your manicurist. When you get your nails done, look at your nail bed. Shape your nails to match, giving your hands and nails a balanced and elegant look.

Want to splurge? Gel manicures use UV technology for a harder and smoother finished nail. They're a bit pricier but can last up to twice as long as a traditional manicure!

2. Whiten Your Teeth

You want pearly whites for all those beautiful pictures you'll be posing for (but we also know how crucial coffee is right now with all the planning). Most toothpastes have whitening ingredients in them, but for faster results, choose a special whitening one. White strips are also a great option.

Want to splurge? Get your teeth professionally whitened. But makeup artist Sonia Kashuk warns, "Don't go overboard. Anything that looks too artificial becomes too prominent in a picture." Get a professional whitening six months out so your teeth aren't too brilliant the day of. Beware, though: Teeth whitening wears down your enamel, making your teeth more sensitive to hot and cold, so don't overdo it!

3. Eat Healthier

If you can bear it, try staying away from sugar, lots of sodium and processed foods. These all lead to belly fat and bloating. Instead, focus on green vegetables, fruit and lots of water—all great for staving off food cravings and clearing up your skin. Watch out for carbs as well, especially fried foods (that means no French fries!). Stay away from too much booze—alcohol makes your skin puffy and dry (not to mention, you crave more snacks and junk food when you're buzzed).

Want to splurge? Sign up for meal plans that deliver healthy meals right to your door every morning like Zone (ZoneDiet.com) and The Fresh Diet (TheFreshDiet.com). Or, hire a nutritionist to get you on the right diet track.

4. Work Out Regularly

We know it's an obvious one—work out on a regular basis. "Working out will help tighten and firm your body while also detoxing your skin," Kashuk says. A good workout gives you a boost of energy, helps you lose weight and makes you feel happier (hello, endorphins!).
Want to splurge? Join a gym. You won't have the weather to use as an excuse, and you'll have all the equipment right there. Plus, working out with other people is always a huge motivation.

5. Lift Weights

Add weights to your workout routine. That age-old myth that you'll bulk up is false! Some simple dumbbells will make all the difference between toned arms and that little bit of arm fat that's so hard to shake. Try a trainer-approved exercise like a seated dumbbell press.
Want to splurge? Pick a personal trainer over a workout video. Your trainer will customize the session to your needs and change up your workout every time.