When it comes to your wedding day, every detail matters—right down to your fingertips. While much attention is given to skin, hair, and makeup, the hands often go overlooked, despite being in the spotlight for rings, photos, and close-up moments. That’s why SILKY PAWS sat down with renowned bridal beauty expert Nicola Johnson to talk all things hand care. From hydration to glow-enhancing treatments, Nicola shares her expert advice on how to ensure your hands look as flawless and photo-ready as the rest of your bridal look.

Beauty Life Moments shares this special contributor story, spotlighting expert insights for brides-to-be.

NICOLA’S BEAUTY STORY

Nicola Johnson is a highly experienced international hair and makeup artist with over 21 years in the industry, recognised as one of Australia’s most accomplished makeup artists and hair stylists. Her journey began as a beauty therapist and skin specialist in London, where she trained in top health spas, working with high-profile clients and celebrities. In 2003 Nicola completed her makeup training at the renowned Glauca Rossi School of Makeup in London, where she had the privilege of learning from makeup icon Lisa Eldridge. She furthered her skills as a hair stylist with training in London, Melbourne, and Sydney.

THE BEAUTY OF HANDS

They hold your bouquet. Your hands showcase your rings. They sign your name and hold your partner’s hand for the first time as a married couple. Often treated as an afterthought, hands have a quietly powerful and highly visible role on your wedding day. Taking centre stage during pivotal photographic moments, intentionally cared for, beautiful hands elevate the overall aesthetic of the occasion.

How important are hands in the wedding presentation?

As a bridal beauty expert, hands play a bigger role than brides initially realise and I see them as an extension of the overall bridal look—soft, well-groomed hands help tie everything together beautifully. I take my brides on a holistic skin journey to treat skin on the body, face, décolletage and hands together as we move towards the big day. Hydrated skin will always look better on camera. You will feel so much more confident showing off your ring if your hands look and feel great. Dry skin, uneven skin tone and ungroomed nails can distract from the beauty of the jewellery. With the evolution of social media and the growing emphasis on presentation, brides are now, more than ever, focused on how their hands will look in photographs.

THE HANDCARE TIMELINE

What is your suggested timeline to begin hand care preparations?

It’s never too early! I recommend at least 3–6 months before your special day. This allows time to nourish the skin and build good habits. The earlier you begin, the better your results will be, especially if you are preparing during the winter months for a spring or summer wedding.

PRE-WEDDING HAND CARE

What are you must-have hand care rituals leading up to the wedding day?

Follow a daily routine using a rich hand cream, applying at least 3 times during the day, one being in the evening for an intensive overnight treatment (apply a thicker layer followed by cotton gloves). Weekly exfoliation helps remove dull skin and improve texture. For brides concerned about pigmentation or uneven tone, a hand cream with brightening ingredients like Kojic Acid can impact their visible appearance. 

An SPF is a must if you’re out in the sun. Avoid harsh soaps and excessive hand sanitiser use, as they can strip moisture. Wearing gloves when washing dishes or cleaning also helps protect the skin. Don’t slack off during the business of the wedding season, consistency is key for lasting results.

I advise clients to use gentle hand, and finger stretches to help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness, checking in the mirror to see how you hold your bouquet or pose in photographs, especially for those who can be a little shy or awkward in front of the camera. Also get your fiancé to practice putting on the wedding ring beforehand.

THE WEDDING DAY

How are hands treated on the big day?

Using makeup on hands for the big day is a huge risk and even more of a reason why meticulous treatment in the lead up is essential for that flawless result. On the day, I massage in a nourishing hand cream for a flawless and radiant finish. Generally speaking, very little goes into the groom’s beauty rituals, they generally just show up! When the groom has invested in professional grooming, it makes a big difference. Add your fiancé into the hand care preparations, even if it is simply once a day at nighttime. I often give brides a hand massage on the big day to help them relax. It’s part of my job to create a calm space, especially as the time draws closer to the ceremony, nerves get more intense so having some additional tools to help reset the bride is important to me.

We extend our sincere thanks to Nicola Johnson and SILKY PAWS for sharing their expert hand care insights with Beauty Life Moments, helping brides-to-be glow with confidence on their special day. To discover more about Nicola and her work visit Nicola Johnson Bridal. To learn more about SILKY PAWS, or to make a purchase, visit at their website.

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