Q&A Beauty Look and feel your big-day best with help from the experts HEAL YOUR HEELS I’ve invested in a gorgeous pair of heeled slingbacks for my big day, but by heels are looking cracked and ugly at the moment. Why does this happen and how do I solve this before W-day? Margaret Dabbs OBE, the expert behind luxury skincare brand Margaret Dabbs London (www.margaretdabbs.co.uk), says: The skin is the largest organ in the body, it’s also the first line of defence against germs, cuts, abrasions and all external threats. Our skin works hard to keep us safe, so it’s only fitting that we should do our part in looking after it. We can learn a lot from listening and responding to our bodies. In the same way that back pain is an indicator that we need to stretch, skin problems are a sign that we could be doing more to look after our general health – but what should we look out for and how do we respond in the most effective way? The skin on our feet goes through the ageing process in the same way as our face and our feet have to carry our full body weight – often in unsuitable footwear – so it’s no surprise that they show the signs of ageing in both how they look and how they feel. If you’re hitting the recommended step count of around 10,000 steps a day or 10 minutes of brisk walking, your feet will be dealing with a lot, from sweat and odour to calluses, hard skin, dry skin and blisters, as well as the cracked heels you’re suffering from. For cracked heels, you’ll want to invest in a dedicated cracked heel treatment balm (check out www.margaretdabbs.co.uk/cracked-heeltreatment-balm-45ml) specifically aimed at tackling persistent cracks on the heel of the foot. Your everyday moisturiser is not formulated to treat cracks in the skin. A dedicated cracked heel treatment balm will work to form a barrier and a water-proof seal over the crack, give instant relief, and long-lasting results by binding even the most persistent of cracks in the skin of the heels. THE MANE EVENT How can I improve the condition of my hair in time for my wedding day? Toni Todd, bridal specialist and owner of Toni Todd Boutique (www.tonitoddhairandmakeup.co.uk) says: Achieving gorgeously glossy, healthy hair for your wedding day starts with a thoughtful routine well ahead of the big day. Regular trims every eight to 12 weeks are essential to prevent split ends, keeping your hair looking fresh. Consider adding a weekly deep conditioning treatment or an intensive hair mask to lock in moisture and enhance shine. Ask your hairdresser for product recommendations. While your treatment is on, indulge in some self-care by massaging the scalp for the full 15 minutes to promote blood circulation to the hair follicles, encouraging stronger, healthier, and faster growth. While it’s tempting to rely on heat styling, minimising its use is key to reducing damage. Try heatless styling techniques or overnight curls, sleek ponytails or messy buns for days when your hair feels less cooperative. For occasions where heat styling is completely unavoidable, apply a high-quality heat protectant to shield your hair from heat damage. Healthy hair begins from within, stay hydrated and nourish your body with a well-balanced, varied diet rich in vitamins and nutrients. By making these small but impactful changes to your routine, you’ll be rewarded with strong, shiny, and luscious hair that’s picture-perfect for your wedding day and beyond, but you must start now! Getty Images 74
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=