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 skincare experts, we’ve created a beauty calendar to help you dazzle on the day of the occasion (and every day after).
3 months out
Familiarize yourself with the retina
The countdown begins. And where else to start than with one of the most powerful revitalizing ingredients? Retinaldehyde, also known as retinal, helps stimulate skin renewal and support the skin’s collagen levels 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 increases the turnover of your skin. And since your skin is working so quickly to regenerate, you may see more texture come to the surface at first.
The good news? The results last, while the 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 Ana Fernandez, ISDIN Medical Communication Specialist — just in time for the event of the year.
Start with supplements
Antioxidants aren’t just for serums—they can do a lot of good internally. Research suggests 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
Get your daily dose of vitamin C
You have put in the work. And since the results of good aging usually take at least 30 days to show, you start to see the fruits of your labor. Now is the time to step up your efforts.
Vitamin C brightens dullness due to natural skin aging or everyday stressors such as cigarette smoke and pollution. Regular use can also encourage a more even skin tone and minimize the appearance of sun spots.
A simple way to make sure you get your daily dose? Try ampoules. Dr. Melissa Levin, a board-certified dermatologist, is an advocate. “This formulation is sealed in a glass ampoule to ensure stability and potency and is easy to use for travel,” he said. Allure. The product in question? Flavo-C Ultraglycan. “I especially love it for winter since, in addition to L-ascorbic acid, it also improves skin hydration due to hyaluronic acid and proteoglycans.”
Repeat the surface with glycolic acid
Here’s something to remember: your skin’s renewal cycle lasts 21-28 days. Sense; Now is 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 its ability to quickly penetrate the skin — although it’s best to start in moderation. Try starting with a low concentration and increasing as your skin adjusts. You can apply the glycolic acid product every other night during the first week of use. Then come up to nightly in the coming weeks.
But which formula is ideal? Glicoisdin Soft receives a referral from the founder of Boutik Dermatology in Los Angeles, Dr. Onyeka Obioha. “It is moisturizing and contains exfoliating glycolic acidwhich [helps] Increase cell turnover and target hyperpigmentation,” said Dr. Obioha in Buy Side from WSJ.
The big day
Instant promotion
You’re already glowing from the inside out, so plan to keep the finishing touches simple. Get a big day tip from Dr. Dendy Engelman (@drdendy). He shared with me Fashion“Before a big event or shooting anything, I always apply ISDIN Instant Flash to my face, neck and chest. It makes my skin look amazing and the makeup goes on beautifully.”
Time for repairs
The outfit is off and your best dance moves are on deck. But skin care doesn’t stop when you leave home. 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 daily 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. 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 enzymes called] DNA repairs, which repair and protect the skin.” Dr. Levin also chimed in, “It’s an elegant, lightweight yet effective pure mineral blocker with 11 percent zinc oxide and DNA repair enzymes.” 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 to go, remember that a little preparation can go a long way toward results. And most importantly? Love your skin, take care of it and protect it, always.