Why is it that our skin loves to act up right before a big event or photo op? While it is nearly impossible to guarantee a flawless face, here are some helpful tips to prep your skin the week leading up to your photo session, so you can achieve a healthy glow and put your best face forward.

Glowing skin starts from the INSIDE out. You can use the most expensive skincare products in the world, but if you don’t care for your skin from within, you won’t see optimal results. Hydration is key to clearer skin. Drink plenty of water the week leading up to your session. A good rule of thumb is to divide your body weight in half and drink that number of ounces per day. For example, someone who weighs 160 pounds would need to drink at least 80 ounces of water every day. Vitamins are another great source for nourishing your body and promoting clear skin. My go-to daily vitamins are B, C, and D. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables while avoiding excess salt, sugar, and processed foods.

Avoid doing extra skincare treatments, including masks or exfoliators, the week of your session, as these can sometimes cause a breakout or a reaction. Use a gentle facial cleanser, toner, eye cream, moisturizer, and lip balm twice a day every day. This simple routine works wonders.

SLEEP. Yes, sleep impacts your skin above and beyond alleviating dark and puffy circles under your eyes, so get on a good sleep routine the week of your session to ensure you get plenty of rest before your photos. Eight hours of sleep per night is optimum. As tempting as it is to relax and scroll at the end of the day, try to put the phone down a couple of hours before bed to allow your mind to settle for a more restful night’s sleep.

Arrive to your hair and makeup appointment fresh faced. Your professional hair and makeup artist is equipped to help you put your best face forward. You’ve done the work of following a good skincare routine. Show up to your appointment with a clean face. Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and let the professionals take it from here!
Even if you follow all of these tips, and your face decides to act up on the day of your session, between the professional hair and makeup artist and myself, we will make sure your photos showcase your gorgeous self, so don’t stress. It’s time to have fun!
