We’re snooping inside your favourite beauty lover’s shopping bags in our Pretty Pennies Hauls! Each month, we’re challenging makeup artists, dermatologists and content creators to spend their Pretty Pennies, and we’re sharing their beauty buys and bargains with you…

Are you a soon-to-be bride or groom who wants to perfect your skin before your big day? You’ve come to the right place – we’ve picked the brains of the bride-to-be and Dermatologist Philippa Bowes. Philippa is a Portfolio Doctor, which means she has many roles; she’s a Doctor in the NHS specialising in Dermatology, a university tutor, a skin influencer on Instagram and her latest role… wedding planner! Philippa will be walking down the aisle this Easter and has plenty of skincare tips for those following in her shoes…

1. Soothing Eye Cream 

The Avene Eye Cream is a lovely little powerhouse to plump around the eyes and reduce puffiness as well as fine lines by adding much-needed moisture from thermal spring water. My top tip for tired eyes is to regularly use an eye cream. One step I will never forget.

2. Gentle Cleanser

This is a fantastic cleanser, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin. The formula is fragrance-free and has an anti-irritating cream texture, meaning it can remove makeup whilst also hydrating & soothing the skin. A perfect start to a skincare regime.

3. Hydrating Sheet Mask

The Hyaluron-Filler Sheet Mask is a fantastic hydrating mask which is perfect for adding moisture in the dry, colder months and reducing fine lines to boot. A top tip is to pop in the fridge 5 minutes beforehand for an extra relaxing experience.

4. SPF That Doesn’t Clog Pores

The Eucerin Sun Oil Control Gel Cream is a great gel SPF which is an alternative to cream to help prevent breakouts in the summer if acne-prone skin is a problem. The gel consistency doesn’t clog but also protects against both UVA & B. Perfect to use as a first step or on top of other products.

5. SOS Spot Treatment

This powerhouse spot correction cream can help reduce breakout flairs and minimise redness. I pop this on any area of breakout overnight and simply watch the cream work its magic! I highly recommend it. It’s a rescue remedy if you need it last minute!

6. Healthy-Looking Skin Serum

The La Roche Posay B5 Hyaluric acid is a lightweight serum packed with hydrating & plumping properties to brighten overnight. Perfect for locking in moisture, plumping fine lines, and reviving dull skin in no time. It’s perfect to use the night before any event, including your big day.

Philippa’s Top #3 Tips for Wedding-Ready Skin

#1 Don’t Leave Anything To Chance

Try to prepare in advance as much as possible. For example, if going to try a new treatment like a facial or peel, don’t leave it until near the wedding if it causes a rash or a breakout. If going to try a treatment, like a peel, go for low acid strengths first to see how your skin handles it. Patch test first & If a know skin condition, it may be best to avoid it until under control. Consult your doctor, or skin specialist, especially if you need help with your skin, before trying anything new. Furthermore, there are lots of prescriptions which can help various skin conditions nowadays.

#2 Focus on Hydration & Anti-Ageing

Once brighter skin underneath is revealed from any treatment, look towards hydration and anti-ageing. A retinol-based moisturiser to target fine lines and/or vitamin C to target pigmentation and sun damage. Lock in with an extra hydrating serum in the evening to let your skin drink and refresh overnight. Followed by a gentle cleanse in the morning and always SPF. Mineral, if possible, to reduce the risk of reactions. Overall, work out what your skin needs first, then target your treatment towards it. It may be best to consult a specialist first, but if in doubt, dry skin problems should focus on hydration and oily skin problems on reducing sebum.

#3 Look Beyond Skincare

Lastly, the importance of a well-balanced diet, oral hydration, and good-quality sleep can not be understated. This will help you feel better and make your skin brighter for the big day!

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