Wedding Acne

As one of the most important days in one’s life, weddings are not only a beautiful experience — they can also be extremely stressful for the bride and groom. Because stress can exacerbate existing acne problems, here are several suggestions to help you avoid wedding acne to ensure your day is picture perfect.

Begin Planning in Advance to Stop Wedding Acne

Acne solutions do not work overnight, so the more time you have, the better your results can be. If your acne is severe, consider seeing a doctor who can create a customized treatment plan based on exactly what your specific skin needs to look healthy and clear.

In addition to treating acne and preventing future breakouts, dermatologists can prescribe strong acne fighting medications that also reduce acne scars from previous breakouts. After acne starts to clear, some individuals may also find that they have uneven skin tone or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which dermatologists can help with. They can also suggest the right over-the-counter products for you, such as Proactiv, to save time and money that you would spend shopping around for different solutions.

Be mindful of what you consume, as well. Instead of eating simple carbohydrates, such as soda, donuts, and other packaged “junk food,” try eating more natural and wholesome foods. Add more vegetables and Omega 3 nutrients found in fish, nuts, and seeds. Omega 3 is a known anti-inflammatory agent that can be helpful in treating acne and rosacea. Drink plenty of fluids, minimize your caffeine intake, and add vitamins specifically formulated for skin health.

If your acne is mild to moderate, you can treat your wedding acne problems at home with an effective over-the-counter skincare regimen.

The Year Countdown

10-12 Months Before: Start a strict skin care regimen that may include cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing, and sun protection. Consider visiting a local aesthetician well trained in deep-cleansing facial treatments and extracting blackheads. If you are taking prescription acne medications, please get your doctor’s approval before having a facial done and inform your aesthetician about any products you are using, including over-the-counter treatments.

8-10 Months Before: Find a makeup artist who can help camouflage breakouts, so that even if your skin is not quite perfect by the time your wedding arrives, it can at least look as though it is. Grooms can also take advantage of makeup artists as well — many makeup artists offer this service as part of a package.

6-8 Months Before: Let your doctor know how the treatments are working, including any side effects, signs of improvement, or areas that need more work. You still have time to adjust your treatment regimen before your wedding. Sometimes, acne treatments are not as effective as they could be, because they are not being used correctly. Your doctor can clarify exactly how to use your treatment regimen for best results.

4-6 Months Before: As the big day draws near, remember that stress can be a huge contributor to wedding acne. In addition to taking care of your skin, pamper your emotions, too. Participate in activities that help you relax and feel more centered, such as doing yoga or getting massages. The less you stress, the better it is for your skin.

2-4 Months Before: Consistency is important for the efficacy of acne treatments. The busier you become as your big day draws near, the more likely it is that you might skip your acne routine. Try your best to be diligent about using your products. Even if your skin looks clear, continue using your medications regularly to prevent acne from returning.

1-2 Months Before: If you have been getting facials throughout the year, schedule your last treatment a few weeks prior to your wedding. Do not get a procedure like microdermabrasion, chemical peels, or extractions less than week before your wedding day, as these procedures may cause a red or splotchy complexion.

1-2 Weeks Before: Do not try any new products and avoid picking at blemishes to avoid inflammation, which would make your skin look worse. Remember, makeup can cover any remaining blemishes you have.

Day of the Wedding: Even if your skin is not as clear as you would like it to be, let your makeup artist help you to look beautiful. If you are doing your own makeup, use a dab of green concealer to cover red blemishes, then use a skin-toned concealer and a bit of powder. (Grooms can ask their sisters, mothers, or female friends for help, too.)

Ultimately, remember your skin problems are not as important as the day you are about to enjoy!