Pre-Wedding Skin and Smile Plan for Brides and Grooms

6 months before: assessment and the basics

Start with a dental check-up and professional cleaning, and treat any decay or gum inflammation. If you have a chipped or worn tooth, this is a good time to discuss options such as cosmetic fillings or veneers, as some need more than one visit. If you are considering clear aligners, discuss them early, since treatment length varies and can run for months.

For your skin, see a dermatologist to assess concerns such as acne, pigmentation or acne marks, and start a steady routine: a gentle cleanser, moisturiser and daily sunscreen. Treating acne and pigmentation usually takes several months, and laser for hair removal or some skin concerns needs several sessions weeks apart, so this is the time to begin.

3 months before: treatments that need time

Continue laser sessions as planned and, if your doctor thinks it suitable, begin light chemical peels or deep-cleansing sessions such as HydraFacial about every 3 to 4 weeks. If you are thinking about Botox or skin boosters, this is a good window to try them for the first time, so you know how your skin responds and there is room to adjust.

For your teeth, finish fillings and essential treatment at this stage. For front cosmetic fillings or veneers where colour matters, discuss timing with your dentist: fillings and crowns do not change colour with whitening, so whitening usually comes first and their shade is then matched to your new colour.

1 month before: whitening and final touches

This is a good time for teeth whitening, either in clinic or with home trays supervised by your dentist, leaving time for any temporary sensitivity to settle. If front fillings are being replaced to match the new shade, waiting about two weeks after whitening is usually advised so the colour can stabilise.

For your skin, the last peel, laser or injectable treatment should be at least 3 to 4 weeks before the day, depending on the type and your doctor's advice, as some can cause redness, peeling or bruising for several days. A final HydraFacial about a week before can suit those who have had one before without a reaction. This is also a good time for a make-up trial.

The final week: nothing new

The key rule this week: no new products and no procedures you have not had before, because even a safe product can cause a reaction or breakout at the wrong moment. This week:

• Stick to your usual routine and do not start any new active ingredient.
• Avoid strong exfoliation, unfamiliar hair-removal methods and long sun exposure.
• Sleep well, drink water and go easy on salt and sugar.
• Cut back on coffee and dark tea after whitening to protect the shade.
• Avoid black henna, which can contain substances that cause severe allergic reactions, and patch-test any new product on a small area at least two days before use.

Tips for grooms

Skin and smile care is not only for brides. Grooms also benefit from a professional dental cleaning, early treatment of any problems and, if they wish, whitening on the same timeline.

For skin, look after the beard area: shaving close to the day can cause redness or ingrown hairs. Shave or trim a day or two before with a clean tool, and use a light moisturiser and sunscreen in the days leading up to the occasion. If you have acne or inflamed beard follicles, get them treated early with your doctor.