Photo: Fairchild Archive
Want the most gorgeous hair of your life for your wedding day? Of course you do. Hairstylist Jen Atkin shares the top mistakes brides make that are getting in the way of that picture-perfect bridal hairstyle.
1. You're giving your hair free reign.
If you have long hair or you're growing it out, you're probably avoiding the salon. Seems reasonable, right? Well, think again: "I can't stress how wrong this thinking is," says Atkin. "Think of it this way: Hair is dead, so long hair is really dead." Split ends will only lead to more split ends, and the longer you let them stick around, the worse they'll get. Get a trim every eight weeks and your strands will grow faster than ever.
See More: The Best Wedding Hairstyles By Length
2. You're taking the phrase "wedding hair" a little too seriously.
Never worn an updo a day in your life? You don't have to start on your wedding day. "Don't forget that your groom-to-be fell in love with you as you," says Atkin. Wear your hair in whatever style makes you feel prettiest. If that means an updo, great. If you'd prefer an intricate fishtail braid you found on Pinterest, go for it. If it's simple waves, let your hair down.
3. You're changing up your coif too close to the wedding.
Give any new hair color or cut a trial run at least six months before the big day. (Then, if you aren't happy, that gives you enough time to dye it back or let it grow before you walk down the aisle.) At the very least, make any drastic changes before your hair trial, so you won't be in for any unexpected surprises on your big day.
See More: The Best Hairstyles for a Destination Wedding
4. You can't stop turning up the heat.
Between the shower, bachelorette party, and rehearsal dinner, you'll be getting ready for more photo ops than ever — which means you're using your blow-dryer and flat iron more often than usual. But months of extra heat can make for majorly fried locks once you finally tie the knot. Protect against damage by always prepping wet hair with a heat-protecting spray before you heat-style. We like Tresemme Thermal Creations Heat Protective Spray.
5. You're giving your locks product overload.
It's tempting to load up on lotions, serums, and sprays, but greasy hair isn't exactly an ideal look under your veil. Limit smoothing and anti-frizz products to a few drops and go easy on your the roots. (Since it's right near your scalp, that's where hair is naturally greasiest.) On the night before your wedding, skip the intensive hair masks, and instead, shampoo your hair well (try Clear Total Care Shampoo) and condition only the ends. Your hair will much easier to style on your wedding day, says Atkin.