Photo: Getty Images
Since we know brides-to-be aren't the only ones who are stepping up their skincare game in the months leading up to the wedding, we've decided to give a little bit of love to another major player: mothers of the bride. What better excuse, after all, than your daughter's wedding to finally fix that nagging skincare concern? We spoke to NYC-based dermatologist Amy Wechsler, who pinpointed procedures to solve all of your problems (skin-related, that is.)
For an overall glow:
Microdermabrasion and glycolic peels gently remove the dull, outer layer of skin to reveal a pretty, healthy-looking complexion. As you age, your cells don't rejuvenate as quickly, which is why you need more exfoliating help from treatments and products to speed up the process. Consult your dermatologist to see how many treatments you'll need, but even one will give you significant results. "It will help your makeup sit better on the day of the wedding," Wechsler says. "Your foundation won't settle into little crevices." Another plus? These treatments can be done last minute if time is of the essence, but give yourself at least one week before the big day if you're a first-timer. Expect to pay about $275 for a glycolic peel and $300 for microdermabrasion. To look extra glowy, use Restorsea Renormalizing Serum, which helps to brighten skin.
For dark spots:
While over-the-counter lightening creams (such as Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector) can help fade hyperpigmentation, years of deep-seated sun exposure needs something stronger to penetrate below the surface. Enter the fraxel laser. Although it's expensive — it can be priced at $1,650 per session — a fraxel laser doesn't only eradicate dark spots, but also helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. You'll need plenty of time before the wedding to get this treatment done, however, so get to the derm for a consultation as soon as your daughter gets engaged.
See more: Beauty Mistakes That Can Age Mothers of the Bride
For wrinkles:
At about $750 per treatment, Botox dramatically reduces dynamic wrinkles by paralyzing muscles so they can't contract. (What are dynamic wrinkles, you ask? The type that form when you make facial expressions. They're commonly found across the forehead and around the eyes.) Wechsler recommends getting a Botox injection about two months before the wedding day, since the effects last from four to six months. For crepey, static wrinkles, the fraxel laser, along with wrinkle-reducing serums and creams, can be of help. Try Shiseido Benefiance Wrinkle Resist 24 Night Cream.
For sagging skin:
More concerned with drooping skin than wrinkles? If you're ready to pay the big bucks (and have a few months before the wedding), try Thermage. At about $4,000 per treatment, this laser promotes collagen production to tighten and firm skin. It can also be used on your neck and eye area, but if you have a severe case of drooping eyelids, surgery might be required. Whatever you do, though, be sure to moisturize — and don't overlook your neck! "It's common to forget but such an easy, important thing to do," Wechsler says. "It really helps to improve the texture of your skin." Try Neutrogena Healthy Skin Firming Cream for your face and Clarins Bust Beauty Extra Lift Gel for your neck and décolletage.