The Ultimate Bridal-Beauty Timeline
ONE YEAR
Brow Shaping
It’s never too early to begin brow rehab, Sarra’s Lauren Genatossio explains, “especially if they’ve been over-groomed by other methods in the past.” She recommends coming in for shaping services (starting at $40) up to a year in advance of the wedding to get the look you’re after, with check-ins every six to eight weeks. Those with sparse brows can also tack on an all-natural growth serum ($70) to stimulate hair production for a fuller look.
Where to go: Sarra, 840 Summer St., Boston, 617-269-8999, sarrastudios.com.
Skin Care
“Your skin will respond to a routine that’s consistent and simple,” says Brad Duncan Skin Care aesthetician Brittany Ross, who suggests working with an expert on a personalized at-home skin-care regimen 10 to 12 months before the big day. Regular facials (starting at $150 for 60 minutes), too, can improve your complexion: At Brad Duncan, they’re customized to address many common skin problems, from acne to rosacea.
Where to go: Brad Duncan Skin Care, 530 Tremont St., Boston, 617-482-1700, bradduncanskincare.com.
TWO MONTHS
Teeth Whitening
To up the sparkle factor on your pearly whites, make an appointment with your dentist at least two months out to see if you’re a candidate for teeth-whitening treatments, says Boston-based dentist Jonathan Millen. Patients can arrange one-time in-office treatments ($299) or bleach their teeth at home with whitening trays ($199).
Where to go: Newbury Dental Associates of Boston/Gentle Dental, 274 Newbury St., Boston, 617-262-0106, gentledental.com.
ONE MONTH
Haircut
When it comes to your mane, it’s best to play it safe. So says Darren Le, a master stylist at G2O Spa + Salon, who advises against drastic cuts or excessive layering within a week of your wedding day. Instead, he suggests having your locks trimmed ($125) a month in advance, noting that a restorative conditioning mask (starting at $25) is a must for those craving shine and bounce.
Where to go: G2O Spa + Salon, 278 Newbury St., Boston, 617-262-2220, g2ospasalon.com.
TWO DAYS
Mani-Pedi
Michelle Phoenix, the owner of Wet Paint Nail Spa, encourages clients to book their manicure and pedicure appointments (starting at $25 and $35, respectively) as close to their wedding day as possible to ensure flawless, chip-free nails. Worried about choosing the right color? “When in doubt, go neutral,” Phoenix says. Or set up a consultation a month in advance and bring photos of your gown and shoes for the perfect match.
Where to go: Wet Paint Nail Spa, 145 Huron Ave., Cambridge, 617-868-0620, wetpaintnailspa.com.
Spray Tan
Although it’s wise to come in for a trial spray a few weeks in advance, the actual tanning application ($50) should be done two to three days before tying the knot, says Natural Glow’s Sarah DeChristoforo. You won’t be able to shower for eight hours, so plan accordingly. And be sure to get beauty treatments that could mess with your new tan out of the way first. “Waxing should be done at least 24 hours prior, and [mani-pedis] should be done a minimum of four hours prior,” she says.
Where to go: Natural Glow, 142 Commercial St., Boston, 617-418-0044, naturalglowboston.com.
Illustrations by Lan Truong
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