Facials are extremely beneficial in skin rejuvenation. There are many benefits to a professional skin care facial. A facial helps to nourish the skin and all it's structures by stimulating blood circulation. Blood brings oxygen, which is essential to cell growth and also removes waste products, therefore helping to rid the skin of impurities. Other benefits of facials include strengthening, nourishing, and toning of muscle fibers. By toning the facial muscles the skin will experience a slowing of the aging process.
The facial begins with analysis of the skin to determine which procedures will best benefit the skin type of the client.
The face will be cleaned thoroughly, then steamed to open skin follicles, allowing a deep cleaning of dirt and other debris from the follicles.
Massage will depend upon the client's skin type. A treatment mask is applied , the type of mask will also depend upon skin type. Then, massage of the face, throat, decollete, feet, hands and scalp....yummy!
The treatment will end with a protective lotion that is applied to the entire facial area. Ending with an aromatherapy scalp massage.
Getting a facial every 4 weeks will: Eliminate finelines • Reduce larger wrinkles • Lift sagging jowls and eyelids • Reduce puffiness in the face and around the eyes • Reduce dark circles around the eyes • Increase collagen production • Moistens the skin • Reduce double chins • Tighten pores • Improve muscle tone • Reduce the evidence of stress in the face • Bring forth a brighter, more youthful complexion • Promote a more radiant, youthful appearance • Improve overall health and well-being
SUNSCREEN
Abstract: New research and government rulings are making it more important than ever to stay up to date on sun care.
With the sun being such an essential part of life and so influential on a person’s psyche, it can be easy to forget that the rays it gives off are the enemy in the battle against skin damage and aging. Many people are beginning to see the effects of youthful days spent basking in the sun, dripping with baby oil instead of sunscreen, so now it is more important than ever to get the straight facts on sun care.
Research proves exposure to UV, or ultraviolet, radiation causes damage to the skin, and studies also prove sunscreens are effective at protecting skin from this damage.
The ABCs of solar UV radiation
UV light is described as three wavelengths: UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC is currently absorbed by the ozone layer of the Earth’s atmosphere, so nearly all concern about ultraviolet radiation centers around protection from UVA and UVB rays.
UVB is only partially absorbed by the ozone layer, and the UVB rays that do penetrate the atmosphere are responsible for causing harmful sunburns, as they enter just below the skin’s surface into the epidermal layers. Transmission of UVB peaks when the sun is high in the sky, traditionally between the hours of 10 AM and 2 PM, making it less dangerous in the early morning and
late evening hours. Also, UVB can be blocked to some extent by very dense clouds, layers of clothing and glass.
Consequently, an estimated 95% of the UV rays that reach the earth are UVA rays. UVA penetrates deeper into the skin than UVB, causing damage into the dermal layers, which research has linked to premature aging and wrinkle formation.9 UVA can penetrate cloud cover, light clothing and untinted glass, as well.
Also, both UVB and UVA have been linked to the production of cancer, so protecting the skin from these harmful rays is essential for good health.
How do sunscreens work?
The primary function of a sunscreen product is to reduce the dose of solar UV the skin receives, protecting it from the damaging effects of UV radiation. In order to provide this protection, sunscreen products contain ingredients that absorb, reflect and scatter UV radiation, thus abating the radiation before it can penetrate into the skin and damage key components, such as DNA, collagen and elastin. Much like an umbrella shields you from the unwanted effects of rain, sunscreen shields you from the unwanted effects of solar UV.
Be aware that sunscreen ingredients reduce the dose of solar UV to varying degrees. Each sunscreen ingredient absorbs UV across a specific range, so it is important to use a product containing an effective combination of ingredients in order to truly get broad-spectrum protection.
Sun protection factors—what do they mean?
Austrian scientist Franz Greiter introduced sun protection factor, or SPF, as a standard measure of sun protection more than 40 years ago. An SPF number indicates protection against erythemally induced skin effects, such as redness, inflammation and sunburn, which are weighted for UVB.
However, SPF is really more complex than most people realize, and this lies mostly in the fact that sun protection factors are not linear. For example, SPF 30 does not block twice as much erythemally weighted UV as SPF 15. In reality, SPF 30 blocks 97% of erythemally weighted UV, while SPF 15 blocks 93%.
The FDA standard dose for SPF testing is 2mg/cm2—approximately enough to fill a shot glass—which is, on average, equal to the amount needed to cover the entire body. Applying two layers of sunscreen assures more even, continuous coverage, and it more than doubles the SPF on the skin. Additionally, applying half of the effective dose of an SPF 30 will not result in an SPF 15, but more likely an SPF 7 or 9.
At this time, there is no universal test method or standard product label to indicate the level of UVA protection in sunscreens. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is, however, currently reviewing a proposed amendment to the sunscreen monograph that will incorporate test methods and labeling for UVA protection.
The FDA sunscreen monograph—what is it?
In the United States, sunscreen products are regulated as over-the-counter, or OTC, drug products and must comply with rules presented in the sunscreen monograph, created and enforced by the FDA. The legal difference between a cosmetic and a drug is determined by a product’s intended use, and different laws and regulations apply to each type of product. Manufacturers sometimes violate the law by marketing a cosmetic with a drug claim or by marketing a drug as if it were a cosmetic without adhering to requirements for drugs, so the FDA has published monographs, or rules, for a number of OTC drug categories.
These monographs, which are published in the Federal Register, state requirements for categories of nonprescription drugs, such as what ingredients may be used and for what intended use. Among the many nonprescription drug categories covered by OTC monographs are acne medications; treatments for dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis; and sunscreens.
The sunscreen monograph rulemaking began in 1978, and the final monograph was issued in 1999, only to be put on hold in 2001 until more reliable testing methods for UVA sunscreen protection could be developed. A proposed amendment of the final monograph was issued in August 2007. “The rule, if finalized, will set long-awaited standards for testing and labeling OTC sunscreen products providing UVA and UVB protection,” says J. F. Nash, PhD, principal scientist with P&G Beauty.
Here are the new ratings for SPF bottles:
SPF 2–14 = low
SPF 15–29 = medium
SPF 30–50 = high
SPF 50+ = highest
UVA efficacy will be quantified by a combination of in vitro, or tested on an artificial substrate, and in vivo, or tested on human skin, methods to establish a UVA efficacy rank. The lower result of the two compulsory tests determines the rank, which is then communicated to the consumer via Product Category Descriptors of low, medium, high and highest, along with the appropriate corresponding star symbols, making the UVA ranking semi-independent of the SPF. The star symbols will likely appear as follows:
No UVA efficacy (Four empty stars)
Low (One colored star, three empty ones)
Medium (Two colored stars, two empty ones)
High (Three colored stars, one empty one)
Highest (Four colored stars)
Therefore, if a product scores high in one UVA efficacy test measurement and medium in the other, the product will receive an overall labeling description of UVA medium. However, to achieve the highest rating, a product must have scored the highest ranking using both in vitro and in vivo test methods.
Other labeling changes would necessitate the inclusion of the following sunscreen statement on product packaging: “UV rays from the sun are made of UVB and UVA. It is important to protect against both UVB and UVA rays.” An OTC Drug Facts box will be required on all packages, as well, and anti-aging and anti-cancer claims attributed to sunscreen products will be prohibited. Additionally, directions will be required that instruct consumers to apply the sunscreen either “liberally” or “generously” and note that the sunscreen should be reapplied at least every two hours.
Emotional attitudes and behaviors toward sunscreen use
Studies show that while people are aware of the risks of exposure to UV radiation, few regularly use UV protection. Research by Beauty associates indicates 70% of consumers believe sunlight causes premature aging, yet only 18% use a daily UV moisturizer. And even in the summer, when the risk of burning is most obvious, only 58% of women report using sunscreen daily, and 26% say they never use a sunscreen.10 With statistics such as these, it is important to know it has been shown that skipping sun protection on just one day out of four is enough to lower the skin’s defense mechanisms and increase endpoints related to photo-aging.11
Additionally, studies have shown the aesthetics of a sunscreen product are extremely important for achieving usage and compliance among both women and men. Many people complain that sunscreens are heavy, greasy and have an unpleasant odor, and P&G Beauty scientists have studied sunscreen usage comparing consumer application habits when using an SPF 30 product versus an SPF 15. The researchers found heavy-feeling products with a higher SPF were applied much more sparingly, whereas cosmetically formulated products with a lower SPF were applied more generously and used more consistently.12
Spreading the sunscreen word Dermatologists and scientists throughout the world agree that the daily use of at least an SPF 15 broad-spectrum sunscreen product as part of a sun-safe strategy will help to diminish acute and chronic damage to the skin.
And although UV radiation is a fundamental concern year-round, it seems to enter people’s minds and conversations much more frequently in the quickly approaching summer months.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
Light chemical peels are extremely popular treatments offered at day spas, salons and dermatology offices. They are the most superficial of all chemical peels, so there is no downtime. In fact, these peels are often called "lunchtime peels" because you can get one done quickly over a lunch hour and return to work directly afterwards.
During a light chemical peel treatment, the skin is exfoliated using an (Glycolic) alpha or beta hydroxy acid. Done in a series, these peels can improve mild to moderately severe cases of acne, and can be given over the face or other body area where acne is a problem. Light chemical peels are also used to soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles, even out skin texture and fade discolorations.
The price of your peel is largely determined by the size of the area being treated. The bonus of having a peel done at a day spa is that they are often incorporated into a relaxing facial treatment.
How it Works:
Chemical peels don't really peel the skin, despite what the name implies. They rapidly exfoliate the skin, allowing dead skin cells to shed more effectively. By keeping dead skin cells and excess oil from clogging the hair follicle, pore blockages (comedones) and pimples can be drastically reduced.
Your clinician will most likely use glycolic acid as the peeling agent. Glycolic acid is a well-known AHA derived from sugar cane, and is used most frequently for light chemical peel treatments. But beta hydroxy acid peels are quickly gaining popularity.
Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are close cousins to AHAs, and work in much the same way. BHAs are especially helpful at dissolving excess oil buildup within the pores, and they tend to be less irritating than AHAs.
Salicylic acid, a familiar and effective anti-acne ingredient, is the most commonly used BHA for chemical peel treatments.
What to Expect During Your Peel:
During a light chemical peel treatment, the skin is first thoroughly cleansed and dried. Next, the AHA or BHA is applied to the face. The exfoliating agent is generally thin, almost water-like in its consistency, and is applied with a small brush, cotton pad or large cotton swab.
You will feel a warming sensation soon after the exfoliating agent is applied. Some people say they feel just a slight stinging; others describe it as more of a burning. The length of time the peeling agent is left on varies, but the average is 3 - 10 minutes.
Next, the peel is removed with cool water and/or a neutralizing agent. The skin is dried and the peel is complete. If your peel is being incorporated into a full facial treatment, the clinician will follow with a soothing mask application, facial massage (optional), toning and lightly moisturizing.
After your peel, your skin will look like it's slightly sunburned. This redness can fade in just a few hours time or last up to five days, depending on the strength of the peeling agent used and how long it was left on the skin. It's OK to use makeup to conceal the redness.
Many dermatologists and some Aestheticians will ask you to use a special cleanser and/or moisturizer with sunscreen for two or so weeks before your peel. And depending on your skin's needs, your doctor may also prescribe a retinoid, such as Retin A, for use prior to treatment. These steps help to fully prepare your skin for a chemical peel. Ask the clinician performing your peel what steps you should take before coming in for your treatment.
Possible Side Effects:
The most common side effects of a light chemical peel treatment are:
redness, peeling or flaking of the skin
burning during the treatment
More serious redness and irritation can occur, but it's fairly rare. Let the clinician performing your peel know if you feel uncomfortable burning during the treatment.
Tell the clinician performing your peel about all acne treatments you are using, including over-the-counter products. Also, be sure to let them know about the skin care products you are currently using, especially if they contain AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid, etc.) or salicylic acid.
Getting the Most from Your Chemical Peel:
If you are using any prescription medication, always get your dermatologist's OK before having a light chemical peel.
Remember to wear sunscreen daily. Your skin will be more prone to sunburn and sun damage for some time after your peel. Choose a noncomedogenic brand that won't clog your pores.
Medicated cleansers, such as those containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, can sting if used after a chemical peel. Instead, use a gentle cleanser like Cetaphil or Dove for a few days, or until your skin heals.
Although your skin will feel softer and smoother after just one session, you will get the best results with a series of treatments. To treat acne, the sessions are usually spaced one to two weeks apart.
TEN STEPS TO DE-AGE YOUR SKIN
1. Receive a professional facial at least once a month to deep cleanse and correct skin problems.
2. Wear an SPF 15 sunscreen every day, rain or shine. If you exfoliate often, go for an SPF 30+. Wear your sunscreen year-round, not just in the summer.
3. Use a gentle, low percentage alpha hydroxy acid/glycolic or vitamin C crème around the eye area to fight off all types of wrinkles. Try Valmont eye creme to reduce fine lines and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
4. To perk-up dull-looking skin, get a Microdermabrasian treatment with a glycolic peel once a month (recommended). This will help detoxify your skin, exfoliate multiple layers of dead skin and brighten-up the tone. Try the Knutek microderm cream to keep those dead skin cells from coming back.
5. Get some sleep. Without proper sleep your face becomes puffy and the skin looks pale and drawn due to a lack of blood flow to the tissues.
6. To prevent dryness and dehydration when the weather changes, protect your skin's barrier function by using a lipid replacement serum over your moisturizer. Christina Fiore, Valmont and Knutek all have great moisturizers.
7. Mist your skin with a gentle toner before applying your moisture crème. This will balance the skin and lock in extra moisture and help guard against dehydration. Valmont, Knutek and Christina Fiore
8. To get that ultra smooth body skin: exfoliate your entire body daily with a soft brush or cactus cloth before showering and use any of the Christina Fiore or Valmont beauty products.
9. Apply self-tanner to damp, just-out-of-the-shower skin for a more even application of Epicuren for a healthy glow
10. Rather than trying every new product that comes along, ask Tina, your Aesthetician to give you a professional recommendation for your skin. You'll actually SAVE money, get the one on one education about the product AND have better-looking skin.
