3 months to go
"Newsflash: Mount Everest has left its geographical location and strategically positioned itself in the middle of my forehead. It will be conquered."

Skin sense: Visit the beautician once a month for a deep cleanse facial, but stop going two weeks before the wedding, as it causes impurities to rise to the surface, which may result in a break-out. Continue with your normal cleanse, tone and moisturise regimen and exfoliate once a week with a good facial scrub.

If you are not visiting a beautician, apply a rejuvenating mask once every three weeks to hydrate the skin and provide some deep-cleansing action. Apply the mask to clean skin just after steaming, so that the pores are unplugged. Remember to steer clear of the eye area. For a good rehydration mask try Vichy`s Masque Thermal Purifant (R69.95). Gatineau`s Moisturising Scrub (R159) exfoliates and moisturises. For an oily or combination skin, try Guinot Pure Balance Sebum (R250).

2 months to go
"Dear diary, it looks like I am in for a bumpy ride with my cellulite..."
Cellulite: A sensible diet and regular exercise are the best defence against cellulite, firming the muscles and making the orange peel effect less distinct. If you need a little help with the more stubborn areas, various treatments can encourage the breakdown and drainage of these spongy fat cells. Before applying the cream, use a loofah in the bath to break down fat trapped in the tissue. Even if you will not be using a cellulite treatment, massaging with a loofah will improve circulation, creating a smoother, finer textured skin.

Try one of the following: Elancyl Beautifying Body Scrub (Galenic) (R95), Clarins Body Lift - Lift-Minceur 2000 (R215), Estée Lauder - Thigh Zone (R295), Clinique - Firm Believer (R200).

A combination of certain aromatherapy oils (such as fennel, grapefruit and juniper) have also been said to break down fat cells and improve lymph flow. Visit your nearest health store to find out more.

Nails: Your hands will steal a lot of the attention on your wedding day. Take good care of them by keeping the nails short and gently curved around the fingertips. Massage your cuticles regularly with a good hand and nail cream, such as Revlon Hand and Nail Moisturiser (R32) and Revlon Cuticle Cream (R28), and apply a nail strengthener like Revlon`s Get Stronger, Get Longer Nail Builder (R40).

1 Month to go
"The big day is drawing nearer, and I`m feeling great. Just a few more finishing touches and we may have a masterpiece!"
Health and fitness: Continue twice a week with body conditioning or your fitness regimen, and increase the intensity of cardiovascular - running or cycling instead of walking twice a week.

Tanning options: For a sun-kissed look, self-tan products offer a natural-looking, healthy alternative. These should be applied once a week from three weeks before the big day, to create an even, all-over tan. Prepare the skin by exfoliating thoroughly in the bath to scrub away flaky, dead skin cells. Concentrate on drier areas such as knees, elbows and heels. Dry yourself thoroughly, moisturise and then apply self-tan in a circular motion to avoid streaking.

Try Lanc-me Flash Bronzer Spray (R145) and Face Gel (R145), Clarins - Lait Auto Bronzant (R110), or Elizabeth Arden`s Oil Free Self Tanning Lotion for Body and Face - (R110).

Another option is to soak in the rays of a sun-bed. Available at most salons and a number of gyms, the cost is usually around R150 for 10 sessions, and the result is an even all-over tan. Start a month before the wedding.Kissable lips: Use a lip-ice that offers some UV protection, and moisturise your lips each night to maintain a supple softness.

1 week to go
"Finally, all my hard work has paid off. But tension and exhaustion have set in..."

Spa: Time to recharge your batteries. Visit a day spa and try an invigorating detox treatment, reflexology or a full-body massage to ease tension and stimulate circulation. Many spas offer whole day treats with lunch included, but if you`re pressed for time or cash, a simple back and neck massage will do you wonders.

Finishing touches: Visit your salon to get rid of any unwanted hair via waxing or electrolysis. Your beautician will also be able to sculpt your brows and tint your lashes if necessary.

On the day
"Ecstasy! I slipped into my dress today and a vision of radiance stared back at me..."
Eat light meals. Soak in an aromatherapy or fragranced bath. Have your hair and make-up done. Relax and enjoy!

Rescue 911
Despite your efforts, something could go wrong. In an emergency, try the following quick fixes:

Water retention: Buy kelp tablets from pharmacies or health stores. Eat watermelon, as this is a diuretic, and go for a jog to speed up metabolism - but drink plenty of water when you finish. Alternatively, go for a lymph drainage massage to cleanse the body and eliminate sluggishness.

Puffy eyes or dark shadows: Opt for eye gel rather than eye cream, and place cucumber slices on each eye for ten minutes.

A pimple: A good beautician will be able to lance this uninvited guest without marking the skin or causing swelling. Consult with your beautician and use make-up to conceal any resulting redness.

Article source: LifeWorld