As the Oscars took over our TVs, newspapers, magazines, (and social media feeds) earlier this week, it got us thinking about the amount of beauty prep that goes into big events, and how much effort A-listers really go to in order to look their best.
RELATED: Bridal beauty: 10 I dos and I don’ts
RELATED: Beauty indulgences worth splurging on
There’s skin that needs plumping, refining and blemish-free perfecting, not to mention hair in desperate need of TLC, and that’s just the beginning.
So whatever event you’ve got coming up – here are four beauty preparation tips and must-have products that will help you look like a star from top-to-toe.
Show your locks love…
We put our strands through a lot of trauma on a regular basis, so it’s little wonder they’re often left looking lifeless. In the lead-up to an event, use a weekly hair mask to replenish your strands’ strength and shine. Whether you’re on a budget or after something luxe, there are plenty of options for you, no matter what your hair type.
bh recommends: Moroccanoil Weightless Hydrating Mask, Bumble & Bumble Mending Masque, Redken All Soft Heavy Cream
Get your beauty sleep…
Tired, dark circles and puffy peepers can prevent you from looking your best, so prioritise getting enough Zzzs and maximising your skin’s renewal process with a diligent night-time regimen.
bh recommends: La Mer The Eye Balm, Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Synchronized Recovery Complex II, Clinique All About Eyes, Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Circle Perfector
Buff dead skin cells away…
There’s no denying the power of a faux glow, but it’s the prep we take to ensure it goes on smooth – and stays that way – that matters most. If you’ve ever read the instructions on the back of a tanning product before, 99.9 per cent of the time it’ll tell you to exfoliate first. That’s because you need to buff those dead cells to avoid dry, flaky and patchy skin, clogged pores, breakouts and congestion. As a general rule of thumb, we should all exfoliate our face and body “once or twice a week” says Nivea Skincare expert Robyn Hutch. Note to self: start exfoliating, now!
bh recommends: Bobbi Brown Buffing Grains for Face, Molton Brown Gingerlily Body Polisher
RELATED: Why you need to exfoliate
RELATED: How to make your fake tan last every time
Whiten those chompers…
When you’re a little over two weeks out from your big bash, it’s time to nix the coffee, red wine and fizzy drinks. A brighter smile is a no brainer when you’re gearing up to look your best, and just a half-hour at-home whitening session can make all the difference.
bh recommends: Oral-B 3D White Whitestrips, Opalescence Go
What other ways do you prep your appearance in the lead-up to an event?
Sunless tanner and hair dye are things I generally do leading up to a big event.
Exfoliating yes! And a good night sleep!