We've all had those moments when you need to look good in a hurry. Whether it's because you've received a last minute invite to a fancy shindig, engaged in pre-wedding prep procrastination or spontaneously RSVP'd to an event you anticipate needing to look photogenic, certain steps can be taken to ensure your skin looks good in a short amount of time. When I have bold-faced clients, who are a week away from hitting the red carpet for a premier or a major gala, I offer a prescription that's a combination of in-office treatments and at-home regimens, but nothing too drastic. You don't want to try anything brand new or invasive, like Botox, a week before a big event or you're asking for trouble. These are the best options for getting ready without overdoing it.
A Week Out...
if you want long-lasting results and don't mind a bit of discomfort, one session of the Clear + Brilliant laser can deliver the even tone and softer texture you're after for your event and months later. You can continue these treatments for better and better results. Maintain the results of your chosen treatment, by adding a daily microbrasian exfoliation (anything harsher can inflame skin) followed by a barrier repair like my Skin Resurfacing Cream 2 Step System and followed by a peptide rich night cream to your evening routine.
And pay attention to your diet: Taking in lots of fluids, abstaining from alcohol and avoid spicy, salty and sugary foods will all help make skin look smoother, softer and brighter.
Two Days Before...
A lot of people want a plumper face but don't want to go the filler route. You can get a temporary lift and fullness with a microcurrent facial. It stimulates collagen, promotes lymphatic drainage and tightens skin so you will look fresh-faced for your big event. Then add a de-puffing eye gel like my Fastscription™ Instant Eye De-Puff to your morning and nighttime regimen to take down excess baggage. I recommend keeping it in the fridge to boost the cooling properties and enhance its deflating effects.
One day before...
Get glowing with an in-office peel, like our aptly named Radiance Peel. It tingles a bit as it works its magic, but it's not painful. The day after your face has a tight radiant glow. Three days later you'll have some light flaking (which you can chalk up to a beach day) and then -- voila! -- you will again be rewarded with a luminous complexion.
An Hour Before...
To get a temporary facelift effect, I love the Natura Bisse Diamond Ice-Lift. It just tightens everything up, and can even be used around the eyes -- it also makes makeup go on beautifully. And then you can make any creases disappear in an instant with a needle-free line filler (Try, Boots No 7 Instant Illusion Wrinkle Filler. The key ingredient is silicone, which smoothes out fine lines for 10 to 12 hours. And then you can use a hyaluronic acid-based lip plumper (like Dermelect Smooth Lip Volumizer) to create the appearance of fuller lips for a few hours. Though it's not skincare, Per-fekt Skin Perfection Gel offers a sun-kissed tint that, along with my prescribed skincare regimen, will make your skin look refreshed and party-ready looking like you just flew in from St. Barth's for the event!