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poise and grace Glowing skin, radiant looks

Shefali was was determined that since this was the biggest moment of her life, she was not going to leave any stone unturned to look her best, even if it meant spending extra bucks.

With the latest technology coming into the beauty industry in India, both brides and grooms are becoming increasingly conscious about their look and are ready to spend both time and money on it. Expensive spa and medical treatments, minor surgeries, all feature in the to-do list of the grooms and brides-to-be.

“A hectic work schedule tends to wear you down completely. I always wanted to undergo a nice spa therapy and my wedding gave me the right reason. And when I am taking time out for myself and ready to spend, I felt I should go for something that will have a lasting effect,” explains Shefali, a senior client executive. Thai body massages, body scrub and chocolate body wrap, acne treatment for the face and deep conditioning and beer wash for her long tresses ensured she was aglow at the wedding. A visit to the dentist gave her sparkling bright teeth for that perfect smile.

Yes, all of this cost her a good Rs.18,000 but Shefali has no regrets. Remarks Dr. Charulata Bose, Senior Dermatologist, Kaya Skin Clinic, “Today, brides are no longer demure. They are far more knowledgeable and understand that to look good it is important that your skin is genuinely healthy. They are no longer happy with just a facial and make-up.”

The demand increases by 30 to 40 per cent during the peak wedding season, but doctors say it is difficult to give an exact number, as clients nowadays come as early as six months before D-day. Changing lifestyles have only added more names to the list of health problems, which also means a longer treatment time. And seeing this, the parlours are pampering the brides and grooms with customised packages. “Pigmentation and acne are common issues faced by brides. These problems need to be treated medically. Girls nowadays come to us months in advance of the actual day to get properly treated, and we work with them at different levels as per their need,” explains Dr. Sushant Shetty, Senior Dermatologist, VLCC.

Each person undergoes a thorough check to decide the different treatments needed. “A lot of our clients undergo chemical peeling, which removes the top layer to reveal a much fairer and softer skin. Pigmentation treatment and skin tightening are other popular ones. This requires about five to ten sittings depending on the person at a cost of about Rs.1,500 per session. We use a combination of treatments for those who require it,” adds Sushant.

Laser hair removal is by far the most common treatment, followed by skin lightening and acne treatment. “Girls find laser the best way to remove hair from the underarms and bikini area. We have special bridal packages, which includes back shine, rejuvenator, skin lightening and laser treatments. Though it will vary depending on a person, it will cost around Rs.6,000,” explains Charulata.

Then there’s botox and filler for those brides who want to get rid of scars and minor imperfections at a cost of Rs.3,500 per unit. However ravishing a bride may look, a bad smile can often spoil the moment. Maybe that is why bridal dentistry too has found favour among people. Shares Dr. Smriti Bouri, General Dentist and Senior Consultant at Maxwell Hospital, “Bleaching of the teeth is a very popular treatment, as it help gets rid of stains and yellow teeth. Home bleach takes a longer time, but office bleach can give you instant results. This can cost you anything between Rs.8,000 and 15,000. People who are a little adventurous go in for tooth jewel, where we bond a little gem to the tooth for that sparkle. There are a few other clients who want their smile to be re-contoured or designed because they don’t like their smile. Scaling and polishing are some other options but not many go for them, as they are a little expensive and not insured.”

Now say cheese!

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