Bridal nerves - 'Do I look good?' or 'is my hair style complementing my features?' are not just last minute palpitations, they can be quite stressful and cause anxious moments. So telling you not to worry would be futile. I would rather say, make your worries work for you. What you could probably do for a start is – back up ammunition.
For starters I would recommend the 'CTMP Regimen'. That would be the cleansing, toning, moisturizing and protection routine.
With pollution on the rise, it is only natural that our skin gets a sallow look and is prone to clogged pores and acne. Not to forget the blackheads and also excessively dry or oily skin. So, daily cleansing is mandatory. It helps to remove the dirt and grime of every day busy life. Once this is done, the pores are opened up allowing the skin to breathe.
If you have oily skin, it is prudent to use an astringent to remove the excess oil from the skin. A toner for normal to dry skin will help to even out the pores. All types of skin need moisturizing, even oily ones. Moisturizing rejuvenates the skin and keeps it fresh, preventing dryness to settle in. An oily skin can use a gel/water based moisturizer to keep that dewy look without getting the excessive shine as a result of over active sebaceous glands.
Using a moisturizing lotion on damp skin helps absorb the conditioner faster. Also, it is important to use a separate moisturizing lotion for body and face, since the skin texture is different.
The last part is 'protection', often neglected but vital to maintain a healthy complexion.
The sun beats mercilessly on our skin and a protective sunblock helps to prevent the sunburn that can be caused due to constant exposure to the harmful rays of the sun. It is imperative that a minimum SPF30 be used for the sun block to be truly effective. Anything less would not serve the purpose.
Never attempt anything on the face just before the wedding. Even a facial has to be done at least two weeks in advance to avoid breaking into rashes or pimples.
Cardinal Rule One: What goes for the face goes for the neck too, after all neck is an extension of the face.
So please do not neglect the neck while doing the CTMP regimen. In fact, neck shows the sign of ageing first and you must pamper and nurture it with great care as you would do the face.
The hands and legs come next. They are the much abused parts of the body. Constant washing of hands can cause dryness. Some people are prone to excessively dry hands. You get exclusive hand creams with intense moisturizing effect for those who have extreme dryness. Dry hands can cause brittle nails and also can be 'social gaffe' especially when one has to shake hands. Also, by moisturizing you get supple hands and the skin's elasticity is maintained.
Cardinal Rule Two: A manicure helps to keep our hands supple and clean, at the same time prevents our nails being chipped. Over all it looks a pretty picture when your hands are well kept.
The same goes for the feet too. Besides bearing our weight, the feet undergo wear and tear when exposed to the pollution from the ground. This is why you would notice that most often the feet look ragged and worn out (just like our foot wear)! One way to combat this is to soak the feet in warm water with a few drops of oil and a little salt for ten minutes before going to bed. Following which you pat it dry (not rubbing them) and apply a special foot cream to prevent cracked heels.
Cracks in heels are more a result of constant pressure of weight on the skin. Picture this like a tomato being squashed with a hand and what do you get – crack in the tomato skin. Our feet are undergoing a similar trial. So, a leave-in foot cream would help retain the moisture and prevent dryness, thereby reducing the probability of cracks appearing on the skin.
Cardinal Rule Three: Pedicure helps to remove the dry skin and also in growth in nails. It also helps to keep the nails trim and prevent cracks. The foot massage helps in improving the blood circulation and gives an overall feeling of well being.
While we are through with the upper and lower part of the body, we have this huge yawning gap in the middle called torso.
A back massage will help to alleviate the strain and stress that we often put on our unsuspecting shoulders, thanks to endless hours spent in front of the computer. The bunch of muscles threaded together at the top corner of your shoulder can actually make you wince with pain. A massage will de-stress your corded muscles leaving in you a state of bliss – a kind of floating feeling where there are no limbs.
Besides, a massage can tone the flabby skin and make it firm while improving blood circulation and make you skin glow.
Cardinal Rule Four: An 'abhyang' (whole body) massage helps to completely de-stress and tone up the body. It also helps keep the skin firm.
A traditional oil bath from head to toe should be a once a week compulsory ritual for the general well being of the body.
Besides conditioning, it is good for relaxing the mind, body and spirit.
Finally the crowning glory – the Shiras (head). The hair, like the rest of the body takes it toll due to the climate and pollution. It can become brittle and dry and result in chronic hair fall if left untreated.
We often punish our hair unwittingly by frequently using straightening irons, curlers and dryers which can cause drying and result in dandruff. A simple oil massage and leaving it in for twenty minutes before washing it off with a mild shampoo could do the trick. But, if the hair has been subjected to frequent coloring and highlighting – the chemicals can dehydrate the hair follicle causing it serum loss. Also, with dryness comes itching and flaking. In such cases intense conditioning would be needed to repair the damage. Also, applying a hair masque will help lock moisture into the hair roots making it soft and manageable.
It is advisable to experiment with different brands of shampoos before zeroing on the one that would suit your hair. It is a must to apply a conditioner after shampooing.
Cardinal Rule Five: Never experiment with hair styling just before the d-day. Use the brand that you are comfortable with. It wouldn't do good to try out something at the last moment that can jeopardize the texture and quality of your hair.
Relax, take a deep breath and calm down. It is your wedding and it is up to you to decide how you want to look best. These are just pointers to guide you through the beauty regimentation. After all, no bride would want to be seen with blotches on her skin. At the same time, the moon still looks good despite its blemish. Therefore, rest assured no matter what, you will still be the best looking girl on your wedding.
Why should you go for a professional?
Well for starters, the deed is done for a fee and hence the accountability is more. More importantly, they know their job. These professionals know to address the problem and treat them accordingly.
Spa is all about being pampered and getting the much deserved break from stress. As the bride to be you deserve it. So go for it, treat yourself to some 'spa-licous' wonder and see the difference. In a spa, they aim to give total 'primping and pruning', buffing and polishing to give an overall sheen and glow to the body.
Sheela Sreenivasan of Bubbles Spa, Chennai, says, “There is a specific treatment for each requirement.”
Most Spas have a range of services from aromatherapy facials to AHA peels (for skin lightening) to chocolate therapy to oxygen masks. Depending on your skin's needs, the methodology is suggested. Then there is foot reflexology like the Thai or Chinese treatments which address the nerves of the feet. By addressing the nerves of the feet which are connected to the whole nervous system, there is total body rejuvenation.
Dr. Balambal of Ayush Therapy Centre, Besant Nagar, says, “Ideally any treatment should happen for two to three weeks to see results. More so in the case of Ayurvedic treatments.” She also adds that most brides come for treatments of premature graying of hair, skin lightening and cellulite reduction.
Since the Ayurvedic treatment is about balancing the humors of the body – like vata, pitta, kapha etc. and the skin is the seventh layer of the body, “it will take minimum seven days for detoxification of the body and only then the nourishment begins.” explains the ayurveda doctor, Balambal. Besides, the doctor also recommends that the abhyangam (body massage ritual) should be followed at home diligently to maximize results.
For scar removal, Ayush has a treatment – where navarai (red rice) is boiled in a kashaym (medicine decoction) and made into a pudding and applied on the face as a mask. Besides, a bottle of saffron oil is also given for application in the night. Dr. Bala elaborates, “Since each sitting is only for twenty minutes we insist that the client should come for minimum a week for the results to show.”
Skin lightening is another popular treatment at the centre. Dr. Bala describes, “The navarai is made into a scrub and applied to the face to help remove the tan. We also do pizhichal to improve the skin luster and also udhvartanam to remove skin flabbiness.”
Another treatment is that for cellulite reduction wherein a podi khizhi (powder mixture tied in a cloth) and dipped in medicated oil is applied to the affected part in upward movement (since the cellulite is beneath the hair follicle and hence needs to be rubbed in the opposite direction) and then a steam bath for detoxification is recommended. Besides, there is a diet regimen which is also prescribed to be followed at home.
Most of the treatments cost Rs.1200/- onwards per session.
When asked about when the bride should start her beauty regimen, Dr. Bala suggested, “For optimum results it should be two to three weeks prior to the event if visible results are expected. Also, during treatment schedule the person has to restrict from going outdoors in the sun.”
Kaya Skin clinic offers a whole range of packages exclusively formulated by the in-house dermatologists. These are custom made to suit the individual skin types.
Dr. Snehal Sriram, Medical Advisor, Kaya Skin Clinic recommends, “Ideally brides should start their beauty and skin care regiment at least two months prior to the wedding date.” She adds, “Our exclusive bridal package spans over two months and there will be a gap of 7 to 10 days per session to tone and condition the skin.”
Special Bridal Packages in Kaya include –
Private consultation with the dermatologist to customize skin-care plan.
Kaya Glow - To remove dead cells and re-hydrate and moisturize the skin.
Kaya Back Shine - Cleanse the stubborn dust, grime and sun-tan remnants as well as remove traces of acne scars and pigmentation for a soft and smooth skin.
Kaya Face Rejuvenator- For a quick, effective way to refresh and revitalize the face.
Besides there are two most sought services from Kaya which are inclusive of the bridal package:
Kaya Skin Lightening –Kaya Skin Lightening which includes skin exfoliation and quick regeneration of skin by using 5 specially derived skin whitening agents to give a radiant, glowing and visibly lighter skin in just 30 days
Kaya Hair Free- The Kaya Permanent Hair Reduction- (Laser Epilating) treatment is the ideal way to get rid of unwanted hair FOREVER! This method prevents the hair regeneration process and renders ineffective the ability of hair follicles to produce new hair.
Dr. Sriram reiterates that each one has to take care of their skin by understanding what suits them and plan accordingly to avail the most of the treatment.
Finally just a word – go indulge and enjoy. Splurge! After all it is supposed to be the most joyous moment of your life – your wedding day.
-Sandya Dev
Source : blog.bharatmatrimony.com
For starters I would recommend the 'CTMP Regimen'. That would be the cleansing, toning, moisturizing and protection routine.
With pollution on the rise, it is only natural that our skin gets a sallow look and is prone to clogged pores and acne. Not to forget the blackheads and also excessively dry or oily skin. So, daily cleansing is mandatory. It helps to remove the dirt and grime of every day busy life. Once this is done, the pores are opened up allowing the skin to breathe.
If you have oily skin, it is prudent to use an astringent to remove the excess oil from the skin. A toner for normal to dry skin will help to even out the pores. All types of skin need moisturizing, even oily ones. Moisturizing rejuvenates the skin and keeps it fresh, preventing dryness to settle in. An oily skin can use a gel/water based moisturizer to keep that dewy look without getting the excessive shine as a result of over active sebaceous glands.
Using a moisturizing lotion on damp skin helps absorb the conditioner faster. Also, it is important to use a separate moisturizing lotion for body and face, since the skin texture is different.
The last part is 'protection', often neglected but vital to maintain a healthy complexion.
The sun beats mercilessly on our skin and a protective sunblock helps to prevent the sunburn that can be caused due to constant exposure to the harmful rays of the sun. It is imperative that a minimum SPF30 be used for the sun block to be truly effective. Anything less would not serve the purpose.
Never attempt anything on the face just before the wedding. Even a facial has to be done at least two weeks in advance to avoid breaking into rashes or pimples.
Cardinal Rule One: What goes for the face goes for the neck too, after all neck is an extension of the face.
So please do not neglect the neck while doing the CTMP regimen. In fact, neck shows the sign of ageing first and you must pamper and nurture it with great care as you would do the face.
The hands and legs come next. They are the much abused parts of the body. Constant washing of hands can cause dryness. Some people are prone to excessively dry hands. You get exclusive hand creams with intense moisturizing effect for those who have extreme dryness. Dry hands can cause brittle nails and also can be 'social gaffe' especially when one has to shake hands. Also, by moisturizing you get supple hands and the skin's elasticity is maintained.
Cardinal Rule Two: A manicure helps to keep our hands supple and clean, at the same time prevents our nails being chipped. Over all it looks a pretty picture when your hands are well kept.
The same goes for the feet too. Besides bearing our weight, the feet undergo wear and tear when exposed to the pollution from the ground. This is why you would notice that most often the feet look ragged and worn out (just like our foot wear)! One way to combat this is to soak the feet in warm water with a few drops of oil and a little salt for ten minutes before going to bed. Following which you pat it dry (not rubbing them) and apply a special foot cream to prevent cracked heels.
Cracks in heels are more a result of constant pressure of weight on the skin. Picture this like a tomato being squashed with a hand and what do you get – crack in the tomato skin. Our feet are undergoing a similar trial. So, a leave-in foot cream would help retain the moisture and prevent dryness, thereby reducing the probability of cracks appearing on the skin.
Cardinal Rule Three: Pedicure helps to remove the dry skin and also in growth in nails. It also helps to keep the nails trim and prevent cracks. The foot massage helps in improving the blood circulation and gives an overall feeling of well being.
While we are through with the upper and lower part of the body, we have this huge yawning gap in the middle called torso.
A back massage will help to alleviate the strain and stress that we often put on our unsuspecting shoulders, thanks to endless hours spent in front of the computer. The bunch of muscles threaded together at the top corner of your shoulder can actually make you wince with pain. A massage will de-stress your corded muscles leaving in you a state of bliss – a kind of floating feeling where there are no limbs.
Besides, a massage can tone the flabby skin and make it firm while improving blood circulation and make you skin glow.
Cardinal Rule Four: An 'abhyang' (whole body) massage helps to completely de-stress and tone up the body. It also helps keep the skin firm.
A traditional oil bath from head to toe should be a once a week compulsory ritual for the general well being of the body.
Besides conditioning, it is good for relaxing the mind, body and spirit.
Finally the crowning glory – the Shiras (head). The hair, like the rest of the body takes it toll due to the climate and pollution. It can become brittle and dry and result in chronic hair fall if left untreated.
We often punish our hair unwittingly by frequently using straightening irons, curlers and dryers which can cause drying and result in dandruff. A simple oil massage and leaving it in for twenty minutes before washing it off with a mild shampoo could do the trick. But, if the hair has been subjected to frequent coloring and highlighting – the chemicals can dehydrate the hair follicle causing it serum loss. Also, with dryness comes itching and flaking. In such cases intense conditioning would be needed to repair the damage. Also, applying a hair masque will help lock moisture into the hair roots making it soft and manageable.
It is advisable to experiment with different brands of shampoos before zeroing on the one that would suit your hair. It is a must to apply a conditioner after shampooing.
Cardinal Rule Five: Never experiment with hair styling just before the d-day. Use the brand that you are comfortable with. It wouldn't do good to try out something at the last moment that can jeopardize the texture and quality of your hair.
Relax, take a deep breath and calm down. It is your wedding and it is up to you to decide how you want to look best. These are just pointers to guide you through the beauty regimentation. After all, no bride would want to be seen with blotches on her skin. At the same time, the moon still looks good despite its blemish. Therefore, rest assured no matter what, you will still be the best looking girl on your wedding.
Why should you go for a professional?
Well for starters, the deed is done for a fee and hence the accountability is more. More importantly, they know their job. These professionals know to address the problem and treat them accordingly.
Spa is all about being pampered and getting the much deserved break from stress. As the bride to be you deserve it. So go for it, treat yourself to some 'spa-licous' wonder and see the difference. In a spa, they aim to give total 'primping and pruning', buffing and polishing to give an overall sheen and glow to the body.
Sheela Sreenivasan of Bubbles Spa, Chennai, says, “There is a specific treatment for each requirement.”
Most Spas have a range of services from aromatherapy facials to AHA peels (for skin lightening) to chocolate therapy to oxygen masks. Depending on your skin's needs, the methodology is suggested. Then there is foot reflexology like the Thai or Chinese treatments which address the nerves of the feet. By addressing the nerves of the feet which are connected to the whole nervous system, there is total body rejuvenation.
Dr. Balambal of Ayush Therapy Centre, Besant Nagar, says, “Ideally any treatment should happen for two to three weeks to see results. More so in the case of Ayurvedic treatments.” She also adds that most brides come for treatments of premature graying of hair, skin lightening and cellulite reduction.
Since the Ayurvedic treatment is about balancing the humors of the body – like vata, pitta, kapha etc. and the skin is the seventh layer of the body, “it will take minimum seven days for detoxification of the body and only then the nourishment begins.” explains the ayurveda doctor, Balambal. Besides, the doctor also recommends that the abhyangam (body massage ritual) should be followed at home diligently to maximize results.
For scar removal, Ayush has a treatment – where navarai (red rice) is boiled in a kashaym (medicine decoction) and made into a pudding and applied on the face as a mask. Besides, a bottle of saffron oil is also given for application in the night. Dr. Bala elaborates, “Since each sitting is only for twenty minutes we insist that the client should come for minimum a week for the results to show.”
Skin lightening is another popular treatment at the centre. Dr. Bala describes, “The navarai is made into a scrub and applied to the face to help remove the tan. We also do pizhichal to improve the skin luster and also udhvartanam to remove skin flabbiness.”
Another treatment is that for cellulite reduction wherein a podi khizhi (powder mixture tied in a cloth) and dipped in medicated oil is applied to the affected part in upward movement (since the cellulite is beneath the hair follicle and hence needs to be rubbed in the opposite direction) and then a steam bath for detoxification is recommended. Besides, there is a diet regimen which is also prescribed to be followed at home.
Most of the treatments cost Rs.1200/- onwards per session.
When asked about when the bride should start her beauty regimen, Dr. Bala suggested, “For optimum results it should be two to three weeks prior to the event if visible results are expected. Also, during treatment schedule the person has to restrict from going outdoors in the sun.”
Kaya Skin clinic offers a whole range of packages exclusively formulated by the in-house dermatologists. These are custom made to suit the individual skin types.
Dr. Snehal Sriram, Medical Advisor, Kaya Skin Clinic recommends, “Ideally brides should start their beauty and skin care regiment at least two months prior to the wedding date.” She adds, “Our exclusive bridal package spans over two months and there will be a gap of 7 to 10 days per session to tone and condition the skin.”
Special Bridal Packages in Kaya include –
Private consultation with the dermatologist to customize skin-care plan.
Kaya Glow - To remove dead cells and re-hydrate and moisturize the skin.
Kaya Back Shine - Cleanse the stubborn dust, grime and sun-tan remnants as well as remove traces of acne scars and pigmentation for a soft and smooth skin.
Kaya Face Rejuvenator- For a quick, effective way to refresh and revitalize the face.
Besides there are two most sought services from Kaya which are inclusive of the bridal package:
Kaya Skin Lightening –Kaya Skin Lightening which includes skin exfoliation and quick regeneration of skin by using 5 specially derived skin whitening agents to give a radiant, glowing and visibly lighter skin in just 30 days
Kaya Hair Free- The Kaya Permanent Hair Reduction- (Laser Epilating) treatment is the ideal way to get rid of unwanted hair FOREVER! This method prevents the hair regeneration process and renders ineffective the ability of hair follicles to produce new hair.
Dr. Sriram reiterates that each one has to take care of their skin by understanding what suits them and plan accordingly to avail the most of the treatment.
Finally just a word – go indulge and enjoy. Splurge! After all it is supposed to be the most joyous moment of your life – your wedding day.
-Sandya Dev
Source : blog.bharatmatrimony.com
No comments:
Post a Comment