Pre-wedding skincare

A lot of brides obsess about their skin leading up to their weddings, and I'm sure I'll be no exception. But my current concern isn't for my face—it's for my hands! I have a serious dry skin problem, and henna stains best on well-hydrated hands.

I currently use Desert Essence coconut lotion, and it's remarkably effective—when I remember to use it. It's non-petroleum based, so it's safe to use after the henna is applied, and the ingredients are organic, so I feel pretty good about it. It also smells like total yuminess.

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But in the days leading up to the mehndi, I'd like to go with a slightly more intensive hydrating treatment. Instead of my coconut lotion (which I'm going to try to get into a better habit of using daily!), I will be switching to extra virgin coconut oil on my hands, arms and feet (you can buy jars of it at Whole Foods or on Amazon.com).

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It's solid at room temperature, but it softens starting at 76 degrees Fahrenheit. Conveniently enough, human skin is much warmer: I usually just grab a lump of solid oil and rub it into my skin, where it melts and hydrates quickly and effectively. I think that once-daily application of coconut oil (generally before bed, when skin loses most of its moisture) ought to go a long way towards healing my frequently dry, itchy skin. (The delicious smell never hurt anyone, either!) Extra virgin olive oil also makes a terrific moisturizer, but because it is liquid at room temperature, it tends to be messier.

What's your healthy skin regimen? Are you changing up anything before your wedding?