The Bridal Prep Playbook

Step-by-step hair and skin prep for the bride and bridal party — because flawless starts before the makeup does

Cleanser: Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser.

Exfoliation: 2–3 times per week with a mild chemical exfoliant (AHA/BHA) or gentle scrub. Avoid anything harsh or new if your skin isn’t used to it.

Skin Prep 1-2 Weeks Before the Wedding

Goal: Balanced, hydrated, calm skin.

Hydration: Use a lightweight hydrating serum (like hyaluronic acid) and moisturizer morning and night.

SPF: Every morning, SPF 30+ (even if staying indoors).

Remove all makeup and double cleanse.

  • Use a hydrating sheet mask or moisture-rich cream mask (avoid anything purifying or exfoliating).

  • Apply a nourishing night cream or face oil (if your skin tolerates it).

The Night Before the Wedding

Goal: Goal: Calm, hydrated, and rested skin.

Avoid: Trying new skincare products or treatments (no new facials, peels, or retinols this close!).

Remove all makeup and double cleanse.

  • Drink plenty of water and try to get a full night’s rest.

  • Avoid alcohol and salty foods to prevent puffiness.

Hair Prep 1-2 Weeks Before the Wedding

Goal: Healthy, clean, and manageable hair.

Trim split ends if needed (about 2 weeks before).

Color or touch-ups: Schedule these no later than 1 week before the wedding to allow color to settle.

Deep condition: Use a nourishing hair mask 1–2 times a week to hydrate and strengthen strands.

Avoid trying new products or treatments (like keratin or glosses) if you’ve never had them before.

2–3 Days Before the Wedding

Goal: Clean scalp, hydrated ends.

Wash and condition as usual.

  • Avoid heavy leave-in conditioners or oils that can weigh the hair down.

  • If prone to oily roots, use a clarifying shampoo midweek to remove buildup (follow with conditioner on ends only).

Wash your hair the night before.

  • For updos: Slightly “lived-in” hair (washed the day before) holds better. For loose styles, waves, or curls: Freshly washed hair is often better.

  • Dry your hair completely — no damp roots! (Wet hair can cause frizz or delay styling.)

  • Skip leave-in products, serums, or oils unless advised otherwise by your stylist.

  • For clients with naturally curly hair, a blowout or straightening should be done the day before the wedding, unless the selected style specifically requires natural curls. There is an additional fee of $80 if we need to blowout your hair.

The Day Before the Wedding

Goal: The perfect base for styling.