You’ve answered yes, blocked your calendar, and bookmarked a collection of perfect outfits to choose from. You’re already well on your way to looking and feeling your best on the big day. Now all that’s left is to get your skin ready to glow.
Our golden rule? Good skin comes to those who prepare. Together with dermatologists and skin care experts, we created a beauty calendar to help you dazzle on the day of the occasion (and every day after).
Familiarize yourself with the retina
The countdown begins. And where else to start than with one of the most powerful revitalizing ingredients? Retinaldehyde, better known as retinal, helps stimulate skin renewal for a smoother and firmer appearance.
If this is your first time using a retinoid, your skin may need some time to adjust — AKA the retinitis period. This is because the retina causes too much movement of the skin. And when your skin works quickly to regenerate, you may see more texture come to the surface at first.
The good news? Any setbacks should be temporary. “Using the retina can be a process. But the ultimate goal is smooth, youthful skin. Keep at it and you’re likely to start seeing visible results in just a few weeks”, advises Martina Trabacchi, pharmacist and Medical Communication Specialist ISDIN.
Start with supplements
Antioxidants aren’t just for serums – they can do a lot of good for your skin from the inside out. Research shows that diet plays an important role in skin health. And a higher intake of antioxidants can help fight oxidative skin damage—a known contributor to the visible signs of aging.
The antioxidant vitamin E plays an important role when it comes to aging well. “We tend to produce less sebum as we age, so the amount of vitamin E that naturally reaches the skin’s surface decreases with age,” explained Dr. Joel Schlessinger, a board-certified dermatologist. at LovelySkin.
Adding a supplement to your diet can give your skin the boost it needs from within. Choose a blend rich in antioxidants (such as vitamin E), polyphenols and carotenoids. These help neutralize free radicals and protect the skin from oxidative stress for shine that has staying power.
30 days out
Repeat the surface with glycolic acid
Your skin’s renewal cycle lasts 21–28 days, making now the time to start exfoliating. This process helps remove dead skin cells and promote turnover.
Glycolic acid has great exfoliating and restorative benefits thanks to the way it supports the skin’s natural renewal processes — although it’s best to start in moderation. Start things off with a low concentration, increasing as your skin adjusts.
Our mildest formula is recommended by Dr. Deanne Mraz, Board Certified Dermatologist. “In the form of a nourishing cream, Glicoisdin®️ 8 Soft offers exfoliation and hydration to improve uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles, and rough skin texture,” she shares. on StyleCaster.
Anything else to remember? Plan to give it some space from vitamin C products. Try using vitamin C in the morning and glycolic acid at night. For the retina, consider alternating nights using the skin cycling method.
The big day
Time for repairs
Outfit: up. Hair: finished. Beauty essentials on the go: packed? Dr. Engelman continued“In my purse, I keep ISDIN Mineral Brush Daily Protection Powder for reapplying throughout the day. I like this because it helps absorb excess oil and can be applied over makeup.”
Every day
Protecting your skin is the best way to keep it happy and healthy. That’s why there is a product forever invited to the routine of dermatologists and skin specialists: broad spectrum, high SPF sunscreen.
Dr. Caroline Robinson shared her experience with Eryfotona Actinica with Allure“I love that this sunscreen is lightweight, 100 percent mineral, and combines zinc oxide with peptides, antioxidants and [plankton-derived] DNA Repairsomes®️, which repairs and protects the skin.” Take it from the experts – Sunscreen is the ultimate party guest.
Lights. Camera. Shine!
Now is your time to shine. Whether you’re months out and still putting together the perfect skincare routine or you only have 48 hours ahead of you, a little preparation can go a long way toward results. And remember, love your skin, take care of it and protect it, always.
Amy is a content strategist who turned a part-time skincare obsession into a full-time passion. Her experience as a creative storyteller includes a range of lifestyle and technology topics in Washington DC and Barcelona. What’s in her travel bag? Eye contour cream and sunscreen, always.
