Looking for the best bridal beauty treatments to book before your wedding day? From hair removal treatments, eyelash extensions and teeth whitening to gel manicures and blowdries, we put the best bridal beauty treatments to the test.
The Best Bridal Beauty Treatments Tried and Tested
Microblading by Sian Dellar at 1 Harley Street
With a little help from the Kardashian clan, our eyebrows have become a focal point of our makeup routine in recent years. A strong brow can make or break a beauty look, right?
We all have our own particular style when it comes to brows, but let’s face it, when it comes to tweaking, tweezing and filling them in, it can be tedious and time-consuming.
Ever in search of new ways to shake up my beauty regime, I ventured out to Sian Dellar‘s clinic at 1 Harley Street to give microblading a try. A semi-permanent makeup treatment, microblading takes the hassle out of filling in those pesky brows.
The technique sees an ultra-thin blade to deposit pigment into the epidermis (the top layer of skin). This creates a natural, crisp look with fine, hair-like strokes. Sian uses pigments formulated to match your original eyebrow colour, meaning they blend perfectly and enhance your own natural brows.
The treatment can last up to two hours, depending on how sparse your natural brows are and the fullness of your desired look. I opted for a natural look and to add more definition to the arch of my brows.
Before starting, Sian applied a numbing cream to my brows, however, I’d be lying if I said the process was entirely painless. You will feel a scratching sensation as the pigment is applied with the fine blade. But, trust me when I say the short period of slight discomfort is well worth it.
Sian is a true master of her unique microblading technique and I couldn’t be happier with the finished results.
After the first treatment, you will need to book in for a top-up appointment 4 – 6 weeks later. Results can last anywhere from 12 to 18 months. However, a touch up once a year is recommended to maintain the shape and colour.
For more information and a full price list, visit Sian Dellar’s website
Cut and Blow-Dry from Mayfive Hair Salon, Chiswick
Having worked in the hairdressing business for almost 15 years, Mayfive founder Katie Allan certainly knows her stuff when it comes to chopping, styling and colouring. She opened her boutique salon only a year ago (alongside planning her own wedding), following a long stint at Charles Worthington, and it’s fair to say she’s had no reason to look back since.
With its cutting-edge tropical interiors and adorable sausage dog Ralphie, who seems to delight at greeting clients as they arrive, Mayfive has a really sleek and super-relaxed vibe as you walk through its glass doors. The staff are all so welcoming and seemingly can’t do enough for you, and it comes as no surprise to me that the wash basins here even include their own foot massagers.
Katie asked me to talk her through my hair routine and the look I’d like, before washing my hair with Momo Moisturising Shampoo from Davines, which is ideal for dry or dehydrated locks. It’s also made with eco-friendly ingredients, and it smells pretty sensational, too.
After an incredible head massage, Katie got to work with the scissors, carefully paying attention to the fact I wanted to grow my hair, but still have it look tidy, fresh and new.
Next up was the blowdry, and Katie angled the nozzle downwards to reduce the pesky flyaways I had complained about upon arrival. Her technique was flawless – my hair looked so sleek and shiny, and she hadn’t even used straighteners.
Having had a quick through Mayfive’s Instagram before my appointment, I also had it on good authority that Katie’s clientele were big fans of waves, a look I’ve never quite managed to pull off myself. Now was my chance to see how the experts do it.
Using a large pair of curling tongs, Katie twisted and twirled strands of my hair, ruffling them with her hands once they had cooled down. The results were fantastic, and I was amazed by how bouncy my hair was, without the added frizz it normally suffers from.
But of course, it’s not just cut and blowdries that Katie excels in; alongside its reputation as a colouring specialist, the salon is regularly frequented with brides-to-be in preparation for their wedding day. Katie tell me she and her team can create a range of big-day styles for brides and bridesmaids, or teach clients how to pull off their own DIY do.
I have to admit, when the time comes, there’s a good chance I’ll be there in a heartbeat…
For more information and a full price list, visit mayfive.co.uk
Party Face Facial at FaceGym, St John’s Wood
You may have been pumping out cardio exercises and lifting weights in preparation for the big day, but when was the last time you exercised your face?
Meghan Markle swears by facial workouts in an interview she did back in 2014, claiming that as silly as it may feel, her cheekbones and jawline are much more sculpted as a result.
And never one to turn down something recommended by my favourite Duchess, I headed down to FaceGym on St John’s Wood’s ultra-cool high street to try out the ‘Party Face’ workout.
This exercise for your face sees a perfumed mix of vitamins, acids and peptides massaged into your skin using an incredible piece of equipment called Skin IV Technology. I began my workout with a short consultation with Miriam, my therapist for the morning, who asked me about my skin, what I wanted her to focus on, and the kinds of products I already use.
Miriam started the procedure by cleansing my face and chest, then vigorously massaged my cheeks and forehead in a way that a baker might knead bread dough. The process is a little intense and can leave you feeling a bit achey afterwards, but beauty is pain – and in this case it was definitely worth it. Plus, the staff are all incredibly friendly and can ease the pressure if you’re finding it too uncomfortable.
Next up, Miriam applied a conducting gel over my face and ran an Electrical Muscle Stimulation Device (EMS) over it, to stimulate muscles, contour cheekbones and restore my skin’s elasticity. The sensation is a little odd, but certainly not the most uncomfortable part of the process.
A Gua Sha Stone (a chunk of jade) was then rubbed all over my skin to boost its production of collagen, followed by a Pestle & Mortar Recovery Eye Cream and Hydrate Moisturiser, which smelt fantastic.
And the results? Suffice to say I was shocked when Miriam presented me with a mirror afterwards – my face really was visibly glowing and so much plumper. My T-zone – usually the driest and most troublesome part of my face – felt so smooth and nourished, and I was even surprised to find the results lasted for a good few days afterwards.
When you arrive at FaceGym, don’t go in expecting a relaxing spa experience – this isn’t that. But if it’s instant results you’re after – particularly for a wedding day – the Party Face Workout truly is a miracle worker.
For more information and a full price list, visit facegym.com
British Blowdry Treatment at Edward James Salon, Balham
There’s a new salon on the block and I’m pretty sure it’s going to become your new ‘happy place’.
Spread across two floors, the third salon from celebrity hairdresser Edward James is a chic haven in London’s trendy Balham area. As soon as I stepped in to the design-led salon I knew me and my hair would be in for a treat.
After an initial consultation (and a welcomed glass of bubbles) with salon director Lauren, I was taken downstairs to the equally sleek and ambient treatment room to try out the British Blowdry.
A twist on the Brazilian Blowdry, Edward James’ signature British Blowdry is a semi-permanent smoothing treatment. Designed for British hair, it suits finer hair without stripping it from its important natural moisture.
An ammonia free glossing oil is applied to add shine and moisture followed by Edward’s formula – a smoothing keratin protein which is applied to the frizziest part of the hair with a paint brush.
The treatment is designed to strengthen and smooth making hair feel more moisturised and manageable – it’s ideal for hair that reacts to humidity along with coloured hair.
After leaving the treatment set and soaking up more of the relaxing vibes in the salon for a further 45 minutes. Laura finished the process using straightening irons to seal the treatment.
Although my hair is often quite frizzy with a natural wave, I walked away from the salon with sleek, glossy hair. The perfect solution for taming your mane in the humid city heat, or ahead of a summer wedding.
For more information visit the Edward James London website
Eyelash Extensions at Browhaus
Eyelash extensions can help you achieve your desired bridal look, from natural to full-on glamorous lashes. The process involves attaching eyelash extensions to your natural lashes – you can opt for one eyelash extension per lash for a more natural look, have ‘bouquets’ of lashes attached to one lash, or clusters attached to the eyelids and helps you achieve a fuller look.
Brow experts Browhaus have recently launched a brand new lash menu, boasting four different lash treatments – each offering a different look.
For a classic look, there’s MELLOW LASHES, designed for image-conscious urbanites looking to enhance their natural lashes. This results in a subtle but fresh appearance. You could also opt for a hybrid look with FLOURISHED LASHES. This brings together the best of both worlds offering a natural affect with worlds of volume.
For brides seeking a more dramatic lash look on their big day, I’d recomend one of the Russian lash options. Opt for LUSCIOUS LASHES, for a lash look using voluminous handmade fans of lashes. If you’re more of a bigger is better kind of gal, you’ll want to book in for the Dramatic Russian Volume INFINITY LASHES for a full on, feathery look.
I tried out the hybrid style and left the salon with full but natural look that I couln’t stop fluttering. The best thing about eyelash extensions is not having to wear mascara. They’re the perfect option if you’re going straight on your honeymoon after the wedding as you literally wake up and needn’t apply make-up.
On average, individual eyelash extensions can last between 3 and 6 weeks depending on the growth rate of your natural eyelashes – mine lasted about a month. Russian lashes can last around 4 to 3 weeks, but it’s recomended to have regular infills.
From £120. For more information or book in, visit: browhaus.com
Gel Manicure and Pedicure at Limoz Logli
Limoz Logli is a name adorned in the little black book of London Elite. Situated in the exclusive borough of Kensington & Chelsea but away from the hustle and bustle of the King’s Road, the two storey hair and beauty salon is a hub of pure glamour which has the power to transport its clients back to the golden age.
Their resident nail technician Kristina gives the most indulgent of shellac manicures and pedicures tailored to you while offering expert advice and retaining the salon’s famed one-to-one experience.
Expect to be pampered in secluded stylish surroundings that transport you to the comfort of your dream home. If you’re a gel polish nail virgin – the durable game-changing polishes set completely hard to be totally smudge and chip-resistant and only need removing when you’ve had enough of the visible nail regrowth or fancy a colour change.
Just like in a regular manicure, cuticles are pushed back and your nails are filed. Nails are then also buffed, so the gel adheres more strongly.
If you’re not the most patient of beauty-lovers, there’s no waiting for your nails to dry as after each coat of gel polish is applied to each nail, there’s 30 seconds of drying time under a UV Light in between.
The shellac mani and pedi lasted nearly three weeks before the sides started to peel and regrowth was visible.
From £40. For more information or to book in, visit: limozlogli.com
Non-Surgical Brow Lift at Cadogan Clinic, London
Botulinium toxin type A, or Botox is it’s most commonly known, has been used as an anti-aging cosmetic treatment for nearly two decades. Most often used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles the forehead, frown lines and crows feet – it’s been a favourite among celebs and us ordinary folk alike. In recent years, Botox has been used to enhance certain facial features and create a more youthful look. One treatment rising in popularity is a non-surgical brow lift, or ‘browtox’. I ventured over to the Cadogan Clinic, a leading cosmetics clinic in the heart of Chelsea, to try out Botox for a subtle brow lift.
After an informative and reassuring consultation with Dr Severine Leonet, Aesthetic Doctor at Cadogan Clinic, we agreed on the amount of Botox to use to achieve my desired results. Dr Leonet then went on to mark out the points along my brows before using a series of tiny injections to apply the Botox.
Much to my surprise, the process was relatively painless and within minutes Dr Leonet had finished my treatment. There is no recovery period needed after Botox, and soon after turning up for my appointment I was free to go about my usual routine.
If you’re thinking of getting Botox before your big day, make sure you leave enough time for the optimum results, as they are not immediate. The treated areas will initially soften three to five days period following the procedure and their appearance will further improve over the next two weeks. The results will then last between four to six months.
It’s also worth researching the best clinics or aestheticians to book beforehand and having a consultation before you undergo any procedures.
While some people have been known to experience side-effects (soreness and headaches) or bruising following Botox, thanks to Dr Leonet’s skill as an aesthetic doctor, I left the practice mark-free and eager to see my results. Two weeks later, my skin is visibly smoother and the subtle brow lift I had wanted to achieve is a resounding success. I could not be happier with the results and would recommend Dre Leonet and the Cadogan Clinic to anyone seeking Botox or fillers.
For more information or to book a consultation, visit: Cadogan Clinic
Colour Tweaking and Brow Shaping at Browhaus
Eyelash extensions can help you achieve your desired bridal look, from natural to full-on glamorous lashes. The process involves attaching eyelash extensions to your natural lashes – you can opt for one eyelash extension per lash for a more natural look, have ‘bouquets’ of lashes attached to one lash, or clusters attached to the eyelids and helps you achieve a fuller look.
Whether you go for individual, multi, or cluster lashes, you’ll notice a huge difference straight after they’re applied. I tried out the bespoke Lash In Bloom cluster lash extension service by browhaus, which gives you beautiful lashes that frame your eyes to make them appear larger and darker and despite giving that fuller look, they weren’t OTT.
The best thing about eyelash extensions is not having to wear mascara! They’re the perfect option if you’re going straight on your honeymoon after the wedding as you literally wake up and needn’t apply make-up.
Individual lashes last up to three weeks, and if cared for and removed properly, will not damage your natural lashes. For those who prefer to make a statement, then Russian lashes are your go to, as they are thicker and fuller.
On average, Lash In Bloom lashes can last between 3 and 6 weeks depending on the growth rate of your natural eyelashes – mine lasted about a month.
Paradiso Manicure at House Cats
House Cats is the latest manicure and Prosecco bar on the block, so we thought it only right to test out their indulgent Paradiso Manicure. Along with a nice, cold glass of Prosecco, of course.
This manicure is branded as ‘pure indulgence’ on the House Cats website and we can confirm that’s exactly what you’ll get. A luxury treatment in a beautiful salon, the Paradiso Manicure is exactly what every bride (or bridesmaid) needs before the big day.
The treatment consists of a shape, cuticle care, and a sea salt & oil exfoliation to remove any dead skin cells. You’re then treated to a relaxing lower arm and hand massage, aiming to melt away any tensions from your day (or some pre-wedding jitters).
Next up is the deep conditioning treatment with heated mitts, which leaves your hands and lower arms feeling revitalised and noticeably softer.
Finally, finish up your Paradiso Manicure with a flawless polish. I opted for a bold red, but with a vast range of OPI colours to choose from you’ll be able to find the perfect shade to fit in with your wedding theme.
You can find House Cats salons in Teddington and Parson’s Green in London. Prices start at just £9 for a quick 10-minute polish. The Paradiso Manicure is £38 for a 45-minute treatment and polish, or £55 with Shellac.
Conditioning Treatment at Blush & Blow London
With its soft baby blue exterior, plush seating and gold furnishings, Fulham’s Blush & Blow salon on New King’s Road is loaded with luxe appeal. Its five-star service and unrivalled expertise have garnered a reputation around these parts for the past few years, with a menu that ranges from Olaplex and deluxe manicures, to Environ facials and spray tans.
Every bride dreams of having luscious, shiny locks on their special day, so this particular trip to Blush & Blow saw me testing out the blow dry and conditioning treatment. Migle, assistant manager of the salon and supreme hair stylist, started by washing my hair and asking about my regular haircare routine; the shampoos I use, what I do to care for my hair, and how often I wash it.
She then applied the conditioning treatment, which was left in for around 15 to 20 minutes as I got comfortable on one of the super-soft armchairs, supplied with a fresh pot of earl grey tea.
Migle then washed out the conditioner and escorted me to the seating area, where the styling began! She asked to see a photograph of how I wanted my hair to look – curls, straight, waves, she can do it all – then added volume by separating the hair into sections and blow drying from underneath.
I wanted a loose curls look, and after drying my hair, she gently applied heat using tongs for a few seconds, then allowed the hair to fall elegantly. She added a little serum and gave my hair a good shake to loosen the curls, with a healthy dose of hairspray to keep my locks in place.
And, voila! The process was complete, and Migle had achieved it all in just under an hour. My curls dropped a little in the hours that followed – which I knew was only natural – but the bounce stayed put, and the smell of the conditioner was gorgeous.
For a hen, casual bridal hair or even a fresh pick-me-up do on any day of the week, Blush & Blow’s blow-dry will leave you feeling pretty fabulous when you leave their Insta-worthy salon. And for just £45 in the heart of west London, I reckon it’s worth every penny.
From £45, blushandblowlondon.com
All-Natural Hair Colour at Gennaro Dell’Aquila, Notting Hill
On a mission to banish chemicals from colouring, Gennaro Dell’Aquila‘s London-based salons (Notting Hill and Wimbledon) offer up a vast menu of 100% natural treatments. With 20 signature blends using only natural and organic herbs, roots and flowers the dyes and treatments give a whole new meaning to the words natural beauty.
I tried out the Olaplex treatment, before testing the natural dyes for a root touch up. During the treatments, Gennaro carefully explained the benefits of chemical-free colouring and talked us through each ingredient. As the products are natural, paraben and carcinogen free, they’re safe to use during pregnancy.
Having previously been sceptical about the prospect of ‘all-natural’ hair dyes, I was certainly proved wrong. Not only did I leave the salon with silky soft, well-conditioned hair thanks to the nourishing Olaplex treatment, but smug in the knowledge we’d given our hair a break from damaging dyes. It looked pretty good too!
Prices for Olaplex start at £50, Highlights start at £80 for short hair and £100 for long hair.
Primelase Laser Hair Removal at London’s Aestha Clinic
Make way for Primelase HR – the new laser hair removal on the block- as fast as shaving, as cheap as waxing and 10 times more powerful than other laser devices.
In a somewhat confusing market filled with promises of hair removal, we welcome one of the fastest, safest & most powerful laser hair removal systems on the market set to shake up the hair removal industry. Primelase requires just 6 sessions for most clients, with other lasers and IPLs requiring 12 or more to achieve optimum results!
Offering a combination between SSL (Solid State Laser) and Diode Laser, a large spot size, dual work modes & four wavelengths, Primelase HR provides the quickest & safest laser hair removal treatments.
Primelase HR is twice as powerful as any other Diode laser machines and with its large spot size can deliver deep penetration in a very fast, pain-free and effective treatment.
A safe and first of its kind, the Primelase HR incorporates crystal freeze refrigeration contact cooling to protect the surface of the skin, making the treatment a comfortable experience for clients that can be used on all skin and hair types.
The very best lasers combine high power, contact skin cooling, high absorption wavelength and short pulse duration that can safely heat the follicle for destruction of the hair and permanent removal.
Primelase requires just six sessions, with other lasers and IPLs requiring 12 or more to achieve optimum results. Primelase is also much faster than other hair removal methods, an upper lip takes just 30 seconds, underarms take 1 minute and full legs 10 minutes.
For more information, visit: primelaseclinic.co.uk
Anti-Wrinkle Injections with Dr Nyla Raja at London’s Medispa
Anti-wrinkle injections remains one of the most affordable, fastest working safe and effective non-surgical, anti-ageing treatments available.
As the medical director and founder of Medispa, Dr. Nyla Raja is a highly respected and much sought after cosmetic dermatology GP and is considered to be one of the top cosmetic doctors in the country.
She treated me for my frown lines – forehead and area between the brows. I was surprised how quick it was!
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