Your wedding day is one of the most photographed days of your life, so it makes sense to put some effort into grooming. A well-planned routine ensures you look sharp, feel confident, and make a great impression. But good grooming is more than just a last-minute tidy-up. It starts weeks in advance to give you time to perfect your look.
From taming your hair to perfecting your skincare, a little effort goes a long way. With the right approach, you can avoid rushed, last-minute fixes and step into your wedding looking and feeling your best. Here is how to get it right.
Plan Your Wedding Hairstyle Ahead
Your hairstyle plays a huge role in your overall look, so planning ahead is key. You need to spend the same kind of time and consideration on your hair as you would your wedding suit, after all.
A fresh cut on the day might seem like a good idea, but it can lead to unexpected results. Instead, time your trim wisely and stick to styles that suit you.
- Book a trim two weeks before – This gives time for any adjustments and lets your hair settle into its shape. Haircuts often look their best a few days after a trim, so do not leave it too late or too early.
- Avoid major style changes – A wedding is not the time to experiment with new trends. Stick to what works for you and what you are comfortable with. A drastic change could leave you feeling self-conscious in photos.
- Consider professional styling on the day – A barber or stylist can ensure every strand is in place, especially if you have longer hair. A small amount of product can help maintain a clean and polished look without appearing overly styled.
If you are dealing with thinning hair, a good styling product can add volume, while a matte finish paste helps avoid an overly shiny look in photos. Speak to your barber for personalised advice that works with your hair type.
A good example of this is from Hairdoc’s hairstyle transformation, keeping things simple but sleek:
Glow With Groom-Friendly Skincare
Great skin does not happen overnight, so start early. A solid routine will ensure you look fresh and well-rested, even if pre-wedding nerves keep you up the night before.
- Cleanse daily – A gentle face wash removes dirt and excess oil without drying out your skin. This prevents breakouts and keeps your complexion looking even and clear.
- Moisturise morning and night – Hydrated skin looks healthier and helps create a smooth base for any optional grooming products. A lightweight, non-greasy formula works best, especially if you have oily skin.
- Use an exfoliator twice a week – This removes dead skin cells, reduces dryness, and helps prevent breakouts. If you are new to exfoliating, start once a week and build up gradually to avoid irritation.
If you are prone to shaving irritation or redness, an aftershave balm with aloe vera can help. For last-minute blemishes, a simple concealer can work wonders. Choose one that matches your skin tone and blends easily for a natural finish.
Dr Aanchal MD has some more tips from her Youtube channel, with quick breakdowns about how they help:
Balance The Beard
A well-groomed beard can enhance your look, but an untamed one can do the opposite. Striking the right balance between polished and natural is key, and that takes some planning.
- Shape and trim regularly – Keep your beard tidy with a trim every few days leading up to the wedding. A consistent routine prevents uneven growth and avoids the need for a drastic last-minute tidy-up.
- Visit a professional – A barber can shape your beard to suit your face and define clean lines for a sharp finish. This is especially useful if you prefer a sculpted or tapered look that requires expert precision.
- Hydrate and condition – A quality beard oil or balm keeps it soft, prevents itching, and enhances its appearance. Dry, wiry hair can look unkempt in photos, so a little moisture goes a long way in keeping it neat and touchable.
If you plan on going clean-shaven, do a test shave a week before to check for irritation. This allows you to adjust your technique if needed. Use a fresh razor on the day and apply an alcohol-free aftershave to prevent redness or dryness.
Last Minute Grooming Tips For The Big Day
On the morning of your wedding, stick to familiar products and keep things simple. This is not the time to try a new moisturiser or an untested hair gel.
- Get a good night’s sleep – Tiredness shows on your face, so rest up where possible. Dark circles and puffiness are harder to hide than you think, and sleep is the best remedy.
- Stay hydrated – Drinking water helps keep your skin looking fresh and reduces puffiness. If you are celebrating the night before, alternate alcoholic drinks with water to avoid looking dehydrated.
- Tidy up eyebrows and stray hairs – A quick tidy can make a big difference without being obvious. Stray hairs around the nose, ears, or neckline can make you look less polished, so take a few minutes to neaten things up.
Finally, if your wedding is outdoors, consider an SPF moisturiser to protect against redness in photos.
Your wedding day should be about enjoying the moment, not stressing about stray hairs or last-minute touch-ups. You’ve already spent the time on the to-do list, getting everything rolling for the day, so make the rest easy. A well-prepared grooming routine means you can walk into your big day feeling fresh, polished, and completely confident. Take the time to get it right, and you will thank yourself when you look back at those wedding photos for years to come.
