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The laser carbon peel is a virtually pain free procedure with little to no down time.

It’s used primarily by people with oily skin, acne, enlarged or clogged pores, melasma, and fine lines and wrinkles. This treatment is also beneficial if you’re starting to see the effects of sun damage to your skin.

What are the benefits of a laser carbon peel?

Laser carbon peels deeply exfoliate the skin. They also help stimulate collagen production.

Laser carbon peels are used to treat:

• acne pigmentation
• acne scarring
• enlarged and clogged pores
• melasma
• fine lines and wrinkles

A laser carbon peel uses heat and requires virtually no down time. People with sensitive skin or skin conditions like eczema will usually experience less redness and irritation after a carbon peel than they would from a chemical peel.

What’s the procedure for a laser carbon peel?

A consultation will be done prior to the service to be sure you are a candidate.  

Retinols should be stopped for around one week before the laser carbon peel. You should also use sunscreen daily during this time.

The laser carbon peel is a multi-part process that takes around 30 minutes from start to finish. For this reason, it is sometimes referred to as a lunchtime peel.

Here’s what you can expect from a typical laser carbon peel:

1. Your skin will first be cleansed.
2. Then a layer of liquid carbon will be spread onto your face. The liquid carbon absorbs oil, dirt, and dead skin cells from deep within the pores.
3. The liquid carbon takes about 10 minutes to dry.
4. You will be given eye shields to protect your eyes from the laser.
5. A laser will be used over the skin on a low-energy setting. This heats up the carbon, binding it to the epidermis.
6. The laser also heats up sub-dermal tissue, boosting collagen and plumping up fine lines.
7. On a higher-energy setting, the laser will be used to fragment the liquid carbon into tiny particles.
8. A smoke evaporator may also be used with the laser to help remove the carbon as well as the debris and impurities.
9. A hydrating moisturizer or serum and sunscreen may be applied to your skin after treatment.

You should immediately see brighter, glowing skin and tighter pores.

If you have sensitive skin, you may experience a slight pinking or reddening of the skin. This usually lasts for one hour or less.

What’s aftercare like for a laser carbon peel?

• Treat your skin gently after getting a laser carbon peel by continuing to moisturize daily.
• It’s normal to see some flaking or experience dryness for a few days.
• Use sunscreen regularly with at least SPF 30+ for several days after treatment.
• Don’t use any products containing retinol for at least five days after treatment.
• Do not exfoliate or use any abrasive or invasive skin treatments for at least one week.
• If you have oily skin, use products designed to combat acne to maintain optimum results.

What are the side effects of a laser carbon peel?

Apart from a slight reddening of the skin and a tingling sensation, there should be no side effects after a laser carbon peel.

It’s important to have this procedure done by an experienced and licensed professional. This will help to ensure the safety of your skin and eyes as well as provide optimal results.

Conclusion

Laser carbon peels can refresh and improve the look of skin, the treatment is best for people with oily skin, enlarged pores, acne, sun spots and melasma.

Laser carbon peels are virtually painless, and require no recovery time. Other than mild and temporary redness, there are no reported side effects. Experience brighter and glowing skin with the Carbon Laser Peel!

Call today and schedule a free consultation (702) 685-3333

Have you ever felt like your energy was a bit off? Maybe you wake up in the morning, spill your coffee, catch every red light on the way to work, get yelled at by a customer…things are just not going as planned and it’s only 10am. You might feel a bit under the weather, but don’t have any symptoms. We’ve all felt like that from time to time. If only there was a way to balance out your energy. Well maybe there is! A Reiki treatment might be the perfect answer.

What is a Reiki Energy Treatment?

• A Reiki session is an energy treatment.
• A Reiki treatment helps balance the Chakra centers.
• The session can be done with the practitioners hands on or hands above the body.
• There is no undressing with a Reiki session.
• Reiki energy is channeled to assist and enhance the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

The Chakras

There are 7 major Chakras (energy centers) on the body. Each one resonates to a different frequency and color, and corresponds to different emotional and physical aspects.

• 1st Chakra is the Root Chakra. It vibrates to the color red and it is associated with grounding and stability. This can be stability at work, at home or in the body (think bones). When this chakra is balanced there is order in your life. If it’s out of balance you might be fatigued or feel insecure.
• 2nd Chakra is the Sacral Chakra. It vibrates to the color orange and is associated with finances, sexuality and creativity. The creativity flows freely when this chakra is balanced. Out of balance you might have anxiety, lower back pain or urinary problems.
• 3rd Chakra is the Solar Plexus. It vibrates to the color yellow and is connected to your power center. In balance and you have confidence and determination. Out of balance and you might have low self esteem or digestive issues.
• 4th Chakra is the Heart Chakra. It vibrates to the color green and is the area where you give and receive love, forgiveness, compassion and acceptance. Out of balance you might feel jealous, angry or might have fear.
• 5th Chakra is the Throat Chakra. It vibrates to the color blue and is the communication chakra. When this chakra is balanced, verbal and non verbal communication come easy. When it is out of balance you might feel powerless to speak out.
• 6th Chakra is the 3rd Eye Chakra. This chakra resonates to the color indigo and is the area for intellect, spirituality, psychic ability and vision. When it is out of balance you might experience headaches, nightmares or have poor memory.
• 7th Chakra is the Crown Chakra. It vibrates to the color violet. This chakra is our connection to the universe. Out of balance might have you feeling disconnected, hopeless or depressed.

The Treatment:

You lay on a comfortable massage table, face up with your eyes closed. Soft, relaxing music is playing to help facilitate a relaxed environment. The practitioner’s hands are placed on different chakra (energy centers) points on the body. The energy is guided to where it is needed. There might be more time spent on one chakra area versus another, depending on what the body needs. Crystals are sometimes used to enhance the treatment. There might also sound therapy added. You might have an emotional release; such as crying or laughter. This can happen during the treatment or sometimes after. This is normal.

After the session:

Since each Reiki session is unique to the person, every one has their own unique reaction to a treatment, depending on where more energy was needed or needed to be taken away. For instance, if your throat chakra was blocked (never closed, only impeded) before the treatment, it might now be open and communication will flow freely. Just like a massage, drinking water after the service is recommended. Also like a massage, you might feel very tired and have vivid dreams. For most people, the session is very relaxing.

So the next time you’re feeling a step behind, try getting your energy balanced with a Reiki treatment! If you’re looking for a practitioner, Margo Hecht is accepting new clients. Her number is (702) 845-1680 and you can also visit her website at www.oraclemessages.com.

The information relayed in this blog should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any concerns please consult your medical practitioner.

When was the last time you looked in the mirror and thought, “my skin looks great”? If you’re like most women, the signs of aging are unmistakable. The fine lines, uneven texture, sun damage, and skin laxity are just some of the things women deal with on a daily basis. Face powders and foundation can only cover up so much, but it doesn’t correct the problem areas and slow down the aging process. If you’re serious about wanting your skin to be healthier and look better, getting facials on a monthly basis and using good quality products are a must!

The Oxygen and Vitamin C treatment is a dynamic combination of traditional botanicals and scientifically advanced ingredients that moisturizes, rejuvenates, and lightens the damaged areas of your skin. This facial treatment starts off with deep cleansing, followed by a lactic acid or Jessner peel. Some people feel a slight stinging at this point, but nothing too uncomfortable. A Vitamin C cool rubberized masque is applied on top of the peel to brighten the skin. The final step is the application of a super active oxygen mask, which calms, brightens, and infuses the skin with a burst of oxygen. One treatment gives you a healthy, glowing result! A series of 4 or more treatments will give you the ultimate, best results.

Benefits:

• Lightens and evens skin tone while inhibiting melanin production
• Exfoliates damaged cells, encourages cell division and stimulates healthy cell growth
• Restores and protects skin against attack from free radicals
• Increases collagen and elastin synthesis
• Provides anti-aging properties and rejuvenates the skin
• Increases skin’s overall consumption, moisture and volume

You can spend a pretty penny for the perfect hair color that you have always been wanting. So, it is important to keep that new color staying fresh and up-to-date, even a month or two after the treatment. The big question is, what can you do to keep your hair color fresh in-between your hair services?

When you dye your hair, the pigments are held captive inside the hair strands. But anything that can lift the hair shaft’s cuticle, allowing pigment particles to escape, can fade that pretty color. One of the biggest color-stealing culprits? H2O. Plain water dilutes the pigment and causes it to fade faster. But before you stop washing your hair for good, try these hair saving techniques that will save your color!

Avoid Hot Showers

Hot water doesn’t only dry out your skin; it can decrease the life of your hair color. The temperature opens up your cuticle, releasing your precious color—and moisture. The key to showering with hair color is to shower and shampoo with room temperature water, towel dry, condition, then rinse with cold water. This will provide longer-lasting color, keeping your locks nice and hydrated while also eliminating split ends.

Swim Smarter

Protect your hair in the sun and chlorine. Use a hair protector with SPF when in the sun, pool, and ocean to keep your color from fading. A product with sunflower oil is great as it also has antioxidants to protect the hair.

Wait to Wash Your Hair

The new dry shampoo offerings on the market can be a hair saver to newly-colored hair because when you wash less, color lasts longer. After getting your your hair color service, it is best to not wash your hair for at least 24-48 hours. When you do have to wash, opt for a gentle sulfate-free shampoo.

Don’t Overuse the Hot Tools

Staying away from your hot tools the first week after coloring your hair will also help prevent the color from fading. Hot tools such as blow dryers and straighteners actually speed up the process of color fading. While these tools are sometimes necessary, it is best to stay away from them the first week or so after you color your hair.

Use a Thermal Protectant

This will protect your hair against heat damage from styling tools. Thermal protectants will help reduce color fade by keeping the integrity of the hair in good condition.

Deep Condition Less

While deep conditioning or at-home masks are a good idea before you color, but they can fade a rich brunette or vibrant red. The conditioner or mask is designed to get deep in the hair follicle to moisturize. However, when it’s rinsed out, it takes the color molecule with it—resulting in the color fading. To avoid this, a good daily conditioner will do the trick (just don’t leave it on for a long period of time).

Use Color Protecting Shampoo and Conditioner

Wash and condition your strands with products formulated to be protective. At Elements, there are several products by Moroccanoil, Sudzz, and Loma that have color protectant ingredients to help keep your color treated hair intact. Especially if you have blonde highlights or are a full color blonde, using a purple or blue shampoo weekly will help tone down the brassy/yellow tones in the hair, keeping your blonde looking like new.

It is no secret that beauty has come a long way, especially since the awkward pencil thin eyebrow trend in the 90’s. Before a woman reaches her thirties, most of them aspire to polish up their makeup game, figure out which hairstyle is actually their best look, and finally shake off tired insecurities for good. At the same time, turning 30 has a way of suddenly making wrinkles and gray hairs pop up somewhere on your to-worry-about radar. So, for all of you approaching this era in your life, read on about the fascinating beauty tips that will make you feel young and beautiful at any age in your life.

1. Skincare isn’t just about your face

Neglecting your neck while applying your skincare is a big no-no! Or even the backs of your hands. Without daily broad-spectrum sun protection and adequate moisture, these zones can quickly start to look weathered before their time. When it comes to skincare application, do not stop at your jawline, or even your neck. Applying your skincare as far as your chest will result in healthier looking skin, making you age gracefully.

2. The most boring hair product is the most important

Part of growing up as a woman and conquering the ages is solidifying daily healthy habits, however boring they may seem. For hair, that means applying a heat-protective product any time a blow-dryer or other hot tool gets near it. Doing this has no real instant-gratification effect on your style, thus why everyone is always tempted to skip it. But we guarantee that doing so will hold you back from the gorgeous shampoo-commercial hair of your dreams. Always use protection! And the right blow-dryer!

3. Don’t fear foundation

Foundation will become more useful and less optional as you get older. According to sources, modern foundation have become lighter in coverage than some tinted moisturizers. If you’ve just been dabbling in applying a little here and there using your fingers, try using a beauty blender, it helps with evening out the foundation on your skin and applies better than your fingers.

4. Bedtime is when all the beauty happens

They don’t call it your beauty rest for nothing! By now you’ve learned that smooshing your face into your pillow with a full face of makeup on can mean paying the price later (in pimples, pink eyes, and other fun ways). But what’s even worse is that you’re missing out on applying targeted skin care before the best long, restful stretch of time when it can deeply penetrate, without adverse effects from sun exposure. Bedtime is prime time for deep moisturizing, fighting future lines, plus treating your lips, cuticles, heels, and other problem areas. Your skin will thank you over time.

5. But for nights when the sleep didn’t happen so much…

This is the one trick every busy girl-about-town needs in her morning-after arsenal: After concealing your under-eye circles, add a dab of highlighter to the inner corners of your eyes. There’s no better trick for looking instantly awake and alert. In a pinch, light-colored eye shadow works too.

6. Think of lush brows as an Instagram filter for your face

Among a full brow’s many, well-documented magical effects: ample, filled-in arches have a way of making you look younger. We credit their soft texture—which softens your features in turn—and the way they divert attention from fine lines. And unlike other features, brows can continue to look 20 years old forever—provided you learn how to fill them in believably.

7. Sunscreen really IS the best anti-aging product you can use

Here’s a new way to think about sunscreen, though: At some point, often in your 30s, the visible effects of past sun exposure really begin to surface—not just fine lines, but discoloration and dark spots that are stubborn to treat and tough to cover up. If you ask any dermatologist to name her number-one anti-aging tip, boring-old sunscreen will be it, guaranteed. So it’s as simple and hard as that: Be diligent about broad-spectrum sunscreen on all your exposed skin every day. It is also recommended to always wear sunglasses during the day and constantly apply a lip balm with SPF in it to protect your lips.

8. Gray hairs = no reason to panic

Gone are the days when a woman got a couple grays and felt like she had to embark upon a forever ritual of dyeing her hair every 12 days. Amazingly effective root coverup products buy you time by letting you temporarily cover individual strands before dyeing your entire head. And once you do dye, they buy you time between color sessions. Choosing a demi-permanent color is helpful for not damaging your hair.

9. Exfoliation: easily overdone (or under-done)

If you don’t exfoliate regularly and are approaching age 30, now’s prime time to start. In your 20’s, your skin is making a lot of new skin cells. In your 30s, your cells turn over more slowly, leading to dull, dry, flaky patches. Exfoliation will reveal new skin cells and keep your skin having that glowing effect. It also allows your anti-aging products to sink in more efficiently. But it’s easy to go overboard. Exactly how often you should exfoliate depends on your skin’s sensitivity and what product you choose, but a good general rule is no more than twice a week once you pass 30, when skin’s losing elasticity and requires gentler care.

10. “I regret spending money on that spa treatment,” said nobody ever

One truth that really sinks in as you get older: How you feel makes a huge difference to how you look. So don’t feel guilty about indulging in the beauty rituals you really enjoy once in a while. It is best to go to a spa and receive a facial at least once a month to keep up with your skincare needs. It is very important to make time for yourself!

The right amount of sleep is necessary for maintaining a healthy, functioning body. However, an estimated 50 to 70 million Americans experience sleep issues that affect their health, which often leads to low work performance, slowed reaction time, obesity, higher risk of longtime disease, and substance abuse.

According to certain studies, massage therapy has found to be beneficial for:

• Insomnia-related stress
• Anxiety
• Digestive disorders
• Headaches
• Soft tissue strains or injuries
• Myofasical pain syndrome
• Sports injuries

Massage therapy can reduce fatigue and improve a person’s sleep. Massage has also been shown to improve sleep in infants, children, adults, and the elderly alike, as well as individuals with fibromyalgia, cancer, heart disease, lower back pain, cerebral palsy, and breast disease.

Good facts to know:

The “Body Clock”

Many people report that they fall asleep easily, but wake up at the same time in the middle of the night. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially is you can’t fall back asleep and wake up tired the next day. The concept of the “Organ Clock” in Chinese medicine is a useful tool in understanding why this occurs. In Chinese medicine, energy or qi, moves through the body’s meridians and organs in a 24 hour cycle. Every two hours, the qi (or energy) is strongest within a particular organ and its functions within the body. The body, mind and emotions are inseparable in Chinese medicine- meaning that if you have disharmony in your physical body, it is tied to your emotional state. So if you wake up at 3 AM, when Liver energy peaks, you may be suffering from Liver Qi stagnation, which could be related to an unhealthy diet- excess alcohol consumption, unresolved anger or high levels of stress. If you consistently wake up at 4 AM, it could be due to an imbalance in your lungs, which is related to grief and sadness, fatigue, and reduced immune function.

The most important time to sleep!

Many people are night owls and think nothing of it, especially if you get a decent amount of sleep each night. However, according to Chinese medicine, it’s not only how much sleep you get that matters, but also when you get it. A bedtime of 10:30pm (at the latest) is advised so that you are asleep by 11pm when the liver and gallbladder start to regulate qi, process emotions, balance hormones and detoxify the body. The window from 11pm-3am, which correlated to the liver and gallbladder, is the most important in terms of maintaining health, especially as you age.

The deepest part of sleep, or Slow Wave Sleep (SWS), is the most restorative part of our sleep. During these hours the stress hormone cortisol is reduced and parasympathetic nervous system activity increases, which allows us to fully rest and move away from the fight or flight responses that dominate during waking hours. SWS is associated with memory or learning. A lack of this type of sleep can lead to reduced daytime functioning and alertness as well as waking feeling unrefreshed. Human growth hormone, which is essential to repairing our bodies from daily injury and maintaining health, is released from 9pm-7am, making each hour of sleep during this time critical.

Check out the guidelines below to learn about why you may be waking up at a certain hour at night:

9 PM-11 PM–Triple Burner (related to the heart and pericardium) Emotion: Joy or lack of joy, depression, hopelessness. Functions: The triple burner is not a distinct organ but is related to our endocrine and lymphatic systems. It controls metabolism within the body. Symptoms of imbalance: Mania, feelings of guilt, depression, adrenal fatigue, hormonal imbalance, sluggish metabolism, frequent headaches, fatigue, earaches. Tips: Consider going to bed earlier, establish a calming nighttime routine, avoid artificial light after 9pm.

11 PM-1 AM– Gallbladder (strongly tied to the liver) Emotion: Indecisiveness Functions: The Gallbladder stores and excretes bile to facilitate proper digestion. It also rules the decision making process, controls the sinews and tendons and governs dreams. Symptoms of imbalance: Indecision, frequent sighing, rash decisions, poor judgment, difficulty making decisions, shyness, high cholesterol, resentment, dream-disturbed sleep, weak tendons. Tips: Avoid alcohol, trans fats and spicy food. Eat a smaller dinner well before bedtime and avoid snacking before bed.

1 AM-3 AM–Liver Emotion: Anger/Irritability Functions: The liver is responsible for detoxifying our bodies and processing emotions each night. Think back to a night when you had too much to drink or a period of intense frustration at work. Did you wake up between 1-3am unable to fall back asleep? From a Chinese medicine perspective your liver was overloaded with and struggled to do its work. Symptoms of imbalance: Explosive outbursts of anger, bottled up emotions, resentment, irritability, moodiness, frustration, high blood pressure, PMS, bitter taste in mouth, red face, blurred vision. Tips: Make sure to drink alcohol in moderation and eat your last meal a few hours before bed. Consider a whole foods cleanse. Cut out coffee for a week and replace it with green tea. Get regular exercise.

3 AM-5 AM– Lung Emotion: Sadness/Grief Functions: The lungs govern the respiratory and immune system, regulate the sweat glands, and moisten the skin. Symptoms of imbalance: Feelings of sadness or grief that have not been dealt with, shortness of breath, sweating easily, weak voice, fatigue, cough, headache, asthma, chest pain, dry skin. Tips: Try breathing exercises, meditation or yoga to improve your lung capacity. Consider getting counseling or talking to a friend about feeling of sadness or grief.

The different types of massages that help improve your sleep:

• Swedish massage—This is a gentle form of massage that uses long strokes, kneading, deep circular movements, vibration, and tapping to help relax and energize.
• Deep massage—This massage technique uses slower, more-forceful strokes to target the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue, commonly to help with muscle damage from injuries.
• Sports massage—This is similar to Swedish massage, but it’s geared toward people involved in sport activities to help prevent or treat injuries.
• Trigger point massage—This massage focuses on areas of tight muscle fibers that can form in muscles after injuries or overuse.

Fun Fact:

Human beings have an intrinsic and powerful connection to sunlight that evolved over thousands of years. Before the advent of electricity, we were bound by the constraints of daylight, and our sleep cycles followed suit. But today, electricity and technological stimulation allow our minds and bodies to be active after sundown, which can wreak havoc on our health. Many hormonal processes in our body are literally hardwired to be orchestrated by sunlight and the absence of sunlight. It is no surprise that adhering to a normal sleep pattern is therefore highly important to maintaining optimal health.

When you are traveling, it may seem that your skincare list is not a top priority to you. But, if you have spent time trying to figure out the best skincare routine for you, do not neglect it when it comes to traveling!

It is important to find a way to keep your skincare routine intact when traveling, even if it means downsizing your products into travel size containers. It is important to keep your skin looking it’s best while you’re in the air, on the road, or just spending a few nights away from home.

Below are some tips and tricks to maintaining your skincare routine while on the go!

1. Keep things as similar to your usual routine as possible.

In general, trying to keep up as much of your skin-care routine as possible is ideal. If what you’re doing is working, why change if you don’t have to? And for those who are trying to manage skin conditions while traveling, keeping your routine consistent is especially key.

There can be many reasons to why a person’s skin can fluctuate while traveling. However, keeping your same skincare routine that you do at home while traveling is important.

The easiest way to keep your same routine is to buy travel sized, (under 3oz if traveling by airplane), versions of your favorite products. If the brand you like does not have travel size, pick up a few small to-go product containers and fill them up with your facial cleanser, serums, and moisturizers.

2. If you are limited to a few products, focus on the essentials.

If you need or prefer to pack lighter, stick to the essentials of your skincare routine. The skincare essentials are considered to be: Sunscreen with at least SPF 30, makeup wipes, facial cleanser, and nighttime moisturizer. Skipping out on the toners and serums for the time being is OK.

3. If your favorites do not come in travel size, get creative!

There are a ton of excellent skin-care products that come in travel-friendly sizes these days. But if your go-tos aren’t available in minis, there are some other things you can do.

Like I stated before, the easiest way is to pack your products in mini containers that you can purchase at the store.

You can also use contact lenses for smaller quantities of products, such as eye cream. You can also pre-soak cotton balls in makeup remover or toners and store them in a tightly sealed bag to lock in the moisture.

4. Think ahead about the dry plane ride.

Long plane rides can dehydrate your skin. Applying a thick, nighttime facial moisturizer prior to boarding is best to ensure your skin’s hydration.

You might also find it helpful and refreshing to use hydrating sheet masks, under-eye masks, or facial mists while in flight.

Of course, wherever you are traveling to matters as well. Keeping your skincare routine the same is important, however, increasing or decreasing your moisturizer depending on your location is up to you to decide. If you are traveling to somewhere colder, a thicker moisturizer is needed. If you are traveling to a hotter destination, a thin layer of moisturizer will do.

5. Pay special attention to your eyes and lips.

If you’re enduring a dry plane ride or a change in time zones, your eyes and lips may be the part of your face to feel most of the effects.

A time change or jet lag can be the biggest downfall in traveling. Which is why using the correct amount and right eye cream can be crucial while traveling.

Don’t forget the lips! Your lips can become chapped and irritated while traveling and changing to different climates. So, keep them moisturized constantly!

6. Don’t just think about skincare products.

Sun safety is always essential for preventing both skin cancer and early signs of aging, but it’s also something way too many of us tend to slack off on. And we know that sunscreen alone isn’t enough to keep us as protected as possible.

Along with sunscreen, be sure to bring sunglasses to protect your eyes, a broad brimmed hat, and sun protective clothing as well.

Familiarize yourself with the basic foot reflexology chart. Starting out, learn about the basic areas on a foot reflexology chart. This outlines the major organs locations on the foot.

• The right foot is associated with the right part of the body and left foot is associated with the left side of the body. The stomach, for example, is primarily located on the left side of the body so massaging and applying pressure to the left foot can treat stomach ailments.
• The toes and feet indicate your head and neck. Massaging your toes in foot reflexology means working your head and neck.
• The thinnest part of your foot, usually found towards its center, is known as the waistline. Parts of your foot correlated with the stomach are found above the waistline. Parts correlated with the intestines are found below
• The bottom of your foot is connected with your pelvic area.
• The area just underneath your toes corresponds to the chest.

The sole chart: The sole chart is fairly easy to learn and deals only with the underside of the foot, not the tops or sides of the feet.

• When it comes to toes, the second and third toe after your big toe are connected to the eyes. If you have eye strain, applying pressure in that area can help. Your remaining toes are connected to your teeth, your sinuses, and the top of your head.
• Pressure points do differ on the left foot and right foot; however, there are some similarities.
• Your ears are affected by the areas just below your toes on both feet.
• On both feet, the lungs are found about an inch below all your toes except the big toe.
• Your heels on both feet are connected to your legs.
• The area just below the waistline is connected to your small intestine on both feet.

The outside chart: An outside chart displays what areas of the body correspond to the side of your foot pointing away for the body. It also covers the top of your foot.

• The very top of your foot corresponds to your lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is the part of your immune system that helps filter out toxins and other wastes.
• The area just above your toes is connected to the chest. The side of your foot above your heel is connected to the hips and knees.
• The side of your foot just below your waistline connects to the elbow. If you move down slightly further, to the side of your foot just above your pinky toe, you’ll hit your shoulder.

The inside chart:  An inside chart addresses addresses the side of the foot facing inward towards your other foot.

• The bottom of your foot from the tip of your big toe to your heel represents your spine. The insides of your feet are the same basic shape as your spine, with the same curves and bends.
• Just under the waistline there should be a puffy, oval-like mound on the side of your foot. This is connected to your bladder.

Did you know?

Your hands also have a reflexology chart just like the feet do.

Consider doing spot massages for specific ailments. For example, pinching the area between the middle finger and the ring finger may help with eye conditions such as conjunctivitis or eyestrain. If you have allergies, they might be helped by pressing gently on the adrenal gland area.

• You can also hold a golf ball and roll it with both hands over the areas of your hand to apply pressure.
• If you suffer from tension or anxiety, try pinching the skin area between your thumb and your first finger.

It is inevitable for us humans to experience pain in our jaws some point in our lives. Certain exercises are known to help ease the pain, however, a certain type of massage is known to improve jaw pain in an instant. This type of massage is called the pterygoid massage. The lateral pterygoids are muscles on each side of your head that help control the temporo-mandibular joint, or TMJ. The muscles help to open your jaw and to move it from side to side. The joint is very complex, so if you are experiencing pain, make sure to see an expert.

The Pterygoid Muscle

The pterygoid is a powerful muscle of mastication. The pterygoid muscles are two of the four muscles of mastication. These muscles are: lateral pterygoid and medial pterygoid. It is involved in closing the jaw as well as protrusion of the jaw. Therefore manual release of the pterygoid muscle can benefit those both with generalized TMJ pain and discomfort as well as people with overbite.

What causes the pain?

The jaw is virtually constantly working when talking, chewing, grinding and clenching and there are estimates that it moves more than a couple of thousand times every day. Below is what causes the pain of the jaw.

• T.M.J
• Teeth clenched
• Poor body position
• Stress or anxiety
• Reduced jaw opening
• Clicking jaw
• Headaches
• Cheek tingling
• Chronic pain and inflammation in the jaw area
• Chewing too much gum

Trigger points

If there are trigger points present in the medial pterygoids then you will often have pain in the TMJ and also around the ear. It can also be difficult to swallow with pain referred to the back of the mouth. If you have restrictions in how far you can open your mouth then there is likelihood that you will have trigger points in this muscle, normally present on both sides of the head.

How to prevent the pain:

• Eat soft foods
• Avoid eating too much gum
• Practice stress reduction and relaxation techniques
• The use of plastic toothbrushes recommended by jaw care professionals
• Get a pterygoid massage at Elements!

Why a pterygoid massage is important for you

Everyone knows that any type of massage is beneficial for them. If you are continuously experiencing pain in your jaw/mouth, the pterygoid massage will help to ease the pain. And, coming in for continuous sessions will result in your pain going away quicker. This massage is also beneficial for headaches. If you experience frequent headaches, this massage will help control the headaches better and decrease the frequency of them. At Elements, the pterygoid massage can be added onto any type of full body massage.

After the pterygoid massage

Any time you massage trigger points in muscle groups it is a good idea to stretch them out afterwards to enhance the relaxation of the muscle. One recommended stretch for these muscles is to open your mouth against resistance by placing your hand under your chin while you slowly open the mouth against the resistance.

As the weather starts to cool down and eventually become chilling, it can take a toll on your feet, making them dry and feeling uncomfortable. Even if you are trying your best to enclose your feet in layers of socks or boots, the chilling winds of the winter season can really make your feet dry. So, it becomes extremely important to care for your feet during the winter season. By reading this article, you can pick up some helpful tips on maintaining the dry skin and keeping your feet looking good!

Scrub those feet!

Your feet tend to become dry and rough as winter draws in, which is normal! But, it is important to take care of them. To remove the dead skin cells, impurities and roughness from your feet, scrub it good. The coarse particles of the scrub ensure to remove the grime and leave you with soft and supple feet. It is recommended that you at least exfoliate your feet once a week.

Get the pumice stone!

Using a pumice stone on your feet is definitely one of the essentials. And it becomes even more important during the winter time. Use a pumice stone to scrub off the hard surface of your heels and wash your feet thoroughly afterwards. To keep your feet soft and stunning during the winter, use the pumice stone at least twice a week.

Always keep your feet moisturized!

Keeping your feet moisturized with foot cream or certain lotions designed for the feet is key. Dry feet during the winter can lead to various skin troubles. Keeping your feet moisturized is important. So, apply a generous amount of moisturizer on your feet every day to get soft and smooth feet.

Start wearing socks more often!

Socks definitely come in handy during the winter time. One pro about socks during the winter time is they keep the moisture locked in your feet. One tip is to apply lotion at bedtime and put socks over the lotion all night for soft, supple feet. As your feet will be covered a lot, choose the socks that make your feet happy. Go for natural material like cotton and avoid synthetic socks.

Soak your feet in hot water often!

Soaking your feet in hot water often provides relief for any possible pains in you feet and helps moisten the roughness of the feet for easy scrubbing. Soak your feet in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Pull out your feet afterwards, use the pumice stone to scrub away the dead skin, apply some moisturizer and you will have soft and supple feet in no time.

Choose the right footwear!

We all know that wearing flip flops in the winter can cause dry, cracked feet. So, it is a good tip to stay away from the flip flops for winter and stick the the close toed shoes. Do not stuff your feet in extremely tight shoes to keep it warm. It is important to choose the right type of shoes in which you can wiggle your toes comfortably and your feet are relaxed. You can also opt for the sandals that are open at the front to give your feet space to breathe.

Massage the feet!

When massaging the feet, you boost the blood circulation and that improves skin texture and enhance the softness of your feet. So, once a week, massage your feet with coconut oil for about 10-15 minutes. You can also opt for a professional foot massage. Just a 30 minute foot massage by a therapist will give your feet the relief they need.

Always go for the pedicure!

There can be no better way of pampering your feet than a relaxing pedicure. A pedicure involves massaging, soaking, exfoliation, foot masks and relaxing your feet. Pedicures remove all the dirt, dead skin cells and roughened skin to leave you with nourished and soft feet. Granted, it can be a little expensive but it is worth it. At Elements, you can sign up for the VIP membership that discounts you off pedicures. With this membership, you can schedule pedicures any time you want. It is the perfect membership for keeping those feet looking beautiful!

The fall time is a great time of year. It is a nice transition from the blazing summer heat of Vegas to nice, cool weather. For many people, with the sudden changes of heat to cooler weather, it can cause dryness and sensitivity to the skin.  Even if your skin is generally on the oilier side, it’s common to experience abrupt changes when the seasons shift — particularly from warmer months to cooler ones.

You might not know it, but sometimes, dry skin can be a bad thing for acne. If you have an abundance of dryness on your face, it can clog your pores and cause unwanted pimples, just like oil and dirt. Everyone strives for clear, glowing skin at any time of the year, but it’s essential to pay attention to your face as the weather gets colder and dry.

To prepare for the upcoming cold season and to make your skin healthy, glowing, and beautiful, take a look at the essential skincare tips for this fall season.

1. Switch To A Soap-free Cleanser

Instead of standard soap, choose a specified gel or foaming cleanser designated for people with acne-prone or dry skin, depending on your skin type. Both of these cleansers are loaded with moisturizing properties that won’t damage the skin’s surface. Regular soap can harm your skin’s outer protective layer, leading to accentuated wrinkles and pores, and can trigger acne and inflammation, making breakouts worse and harder to manage.

Find a cleanser that works best for you, and use it twice daily for the best results. If you’re concerned about constant acne breakouts, look for one that contains salicylic acid. Salicylic acid increases the amount of moisture in the skin and then dissolves the substance that causes the cells to stick together, making it easier to shed skin skills and acne spots.

2. Apply Natural, Topical Treatments

If you have a breakout that is difficult to maintain, even when you wash your face twice a day, consider applying natural topical treatments directly to the affected spots. The right kind of topical treatment can take a few days to start working, but they’ll help reduce inflammation and control the spread. There are many topical treatments that you can find at the drugstore, and most of them contain an ingredient called benzoyl peroxide. This chemical treatment works by killing bacteria underneath the skin that can cause acne. It’s a well-known ingredient in the skincare community and has shown positive results on many individuals who experience regular breakouts.

However, if you prefer a more natural topical treatment, there are many other products that serve more of an organic, natural ingredient. Check out your nearest health food store or wellness website and look for ointments, including:

• Tea tree oil
• Witch hazel
• Apple cider vinegar
• Honey
• Turmeric

Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial agent that can go directly on the surface of any spots you have. Instead of the standard toner used after cleansing your face — splash some witch hazel as an additional exfoliate and pore cleanser. Honey and turmeric are excellent anti-inflammatory agents used in skincare routines for centuries worldwide. The critical thing to remember is to maintain moisture while you use these methods. Never go to bed without a nourishing moisturizer lotion or oil.

3. Try A Thicker Moisturizer

As summer time ends and the heat goes away, it is time to say goodbye to that light weight moisturizer and hello to a thicker moisturizer.

Finding a thicker moisturizer may not be the easiest, but once you do find one, you’ll never look back. It is worth consulting with an aesthetician about what the best, thicker moisturizer will work best on your skin. Sometimes, a skincare routine isn’t as simple as looking for products marketed to oily, dry, or combination skin types. Your skin will dictate the type of moisturizer you need to stay hydrated without becoming too oily. While you should find the right moisturizer for you, remember to also look for one that protects your skin from the cold, dry, and transitional autumn climate.

4. A Professional Chemical Peel

One of the best and most convenient ways to get your face ready for the colder months, treat acne scars, and bring out your natural beauty is to have a professional chemical peel. Here at Elements Salon and Wellness Spa, we provide a chemical peel service that is done by the hands of our aestheticians. There are so many benefits to a chemical peel. A chemical peel removes skin cells from the epidermis and areas of your skin’s upper and middle layers. It’s used to treat wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, and uneven skin tone. But, make sure to consult with the aesthetician first to make sure this service is best for your skin type.

Following a skincare routine is an act of self-care. Dedicating a few minutes each morning and night to your beauty and skin ritual is vital because you’re demonstrating that you matter and love yourself! It’s too easy to forget the importance of being kind to yourself when life gets busy and chaotic. This fall, bring out your natural beauty and give yourself some love with these tips.

When you schedule a service that is beneficial towards your health, typically, a pedicure is not on the mind. You may think of it as a treat yourself type of service that you get here and there. But a pedicure is so much more! You only get one set of feet in your lifetime, right? Then you must give them the proper care and yes, that means a spa appointment.

If you’re very physically active, or if you work in a physically demanding job, your feet absorb a lot of stress. They are probably your most strained, overworked body parts. All of that stress takes a toll on your overall health. During your pedicure service, your technician will massage your feet. Those massages reduce soreness, improve circulation, and release tension in your foot muscles. Your feet will thank you for the extra attention.

Exfoliation is not just for your face! Your pedicure technician will exfoliate your feet as part of your service. You can say goodbye to dead skin and calluses. Aside from leaving you with smooth feet, your pedicure doubles as a preventative service. Things like fungal infections are much less likely if you take good care of your feet.

Pedicures Prevent Infections

If you don’t moisturize your feet daily, a pedicure is an important source of moisture. Moisturizing your feet prevents cracks from forming, which can lead to infections. To get much needed hydration for your feet, continuing moisturizing your feet in-between appointments with foot lotion is important.

Pedicures Stops Calluses Right Away

The extra moisture also helps to remove and prevent calluses. A callus is the body’s way of protecting itself. Areas of friction will protect itself from forming calluses, but with repeated friction like walking or working out, inattention to those areas of the skin can break down and lead to sores or ulcerations.

Encourages A Healthier Lifestyle

When getting a pedicure, a mini foot massage is included. Foot massages improve blood circulation, which leads to healthier feet!

Pedicures=Healthier Joints!

When soaking your feet in warm water during a pedicure can help with joint health. With a foot massage, you are putting all of your joints through a full range of motion to help decrease stiffness. Soaking feet in warm water can also help relieve stress on joints and temporarily subside side pain.

Overall

Pedicures are obviously great for your feet, but did you know they help your mind too? When you get a pedicure, you release tension and feel relaxed. This kind of de-stressing releases a brain chemical called endorphins. Endorphins make you feel calm and happy, They also lower blood pressure, improve circulation and even relieve pain. So you shouldn’t feel bad about splurging. You’re actually doing your body a favor and giving your mind a rest.

A face mask is a type of skincare product that you apply on your face. It is considered one of the easiest ways to get healthy and supple skin within minutes. There are many face masks that are designed for your skin type and that work best to clear up any imperfections your skin may have. It is recommended to apply face masks at least twice a week to get the best results.

There are a variety of face masks available on the market. At Elements Salon and Wellness Spa, there are different types of face masks that are best suitable for your skin type. These face masks can be worn twice a week, as recommended by your aesthetician, for about 10-20 minutes, depending on the face mask.

Top 5 Benefits of Using Face Masks:

1. Refines skin pores: Face mask can help you to get clearer skin and more refined pores. It deep cleanses the pores and clears the pores of dead skin cells, metabolic wastes and the oily substances that can clog them.
2. Increases hydration: Face mask can also bring moisture and hydration to dry and dehydrated skin types. The water from the mask penetrates deep into the skin epidermis to soften the skin and enhance its elasticity. When the skin is hydrated and well moisturized, it becomes easy to apply proper makeup. Also it gives a more plump and youthful appearance to the skin.
3. Diminishes fine lines: Regular use of face masks can reduce the signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, and brown spots and so on. Also you will get to enjoy a softer and smoother skin texture.
4. Gives even skin tone: Face masks are also designed to diminish hyper-pigmentation and give you more even skin tone and texture. It also promotes the sweat gland secretion so as to increase the oxygen content of the skin.
5. Firmer skin: Loose skin can make your look older than your age. The problem of loose skin can be easily solved with regular use of face masks. There are certain types of face masks that help to enhance collagen production and fight off free radical damage which will gradually result in firmer, tighter, fresher looking skin.

Apart from the above mentioned skin benefits, applying a face mask also helps you to relax. You get the time to relax, while your face mask is working. This will help you to de-stress and that alone can make you look and feel better! Whether you use a cream or a sheet based face mask, you’ll feel great during the process.

The Top 5 Face Masks at Elements:

• Pumpkin Enzyme Mask: The pumpkin puree in this mask is rich in vitamins, amino acids, and enzymes that are known for their anti-oxidant and exfoliating properties. This mask gently exfoliates the skin to improve the appearance of fine lines, age spots, freckles, and rough skin. It minimizes pore size and other skin imperfections while stimulating the production of new and healthy skin cells.

• Soft Papaya and Pumpkin Mask: A special active papaya enzyme is incorporated in this crème mask. The active papaya enzymes will remove dead skin cells and reveal a smooth texture to the skin without irritation. Beeswax and avocado oil moisturize and hydrate to soften parched skin. Tapioca starch and kaolin clay tighten the surface of the skin.

• Clarifying Camphor Mask: This extremely effective mask will manage and help clarify severe acne or problematic skin conditions. For combination skin types, it is most effective to use two to three times a week to control excessive oiliness or occasional blemishes. This mask can also be applied directly to a blemish at night and leave on overnight to reduce the blemish.

• Skin Recovery Mask: This creamy, emollient rich, antioxidant and multi-vitamin treatment mask is designed to enhance micro-circulation, improve epidermal regeneration, and naturally brighten the skin. Nutrient rich carrot oil, mango butter, and natural plant extracts help to increase the skin moisture level, oxygen uptake , and prevent early appearance of wrinkles.

• Aloe and Azulene Gel Mask: Aloe and azulene soothe and reduce flare-ups and redness. Sodium hyaluronate is added to hydrate and lubricate delicate skin. Green tea extract is an antioxidant, added to reduce redness. Lavender oil cools and refreshes the senses. This mask is perfect for soothing skin damaged by sunburn, waxing, extractions, peels and laser treatments.

Takeaway

As you can see, face masks are very beneficial for your skin weekly. Aside from the face masks, it is also important to include professional facials about once a month in your skincare routine. To know what products are best for your skin, consult with your aesthetician.

In the skincare world, beneficial ingredients are a dime a dozen. But, the hyaluronic acid ingredient is here to stay. It is a great hydrator for the skin that is safe for all skin types. Hyaluronic acid can be founds in serums, moisturizers, and eye cream.

What really is hyaluronic acid? Naturally produced in the human body, hyaluronic acid is a type of a sugar molecule that keeps our tissues cushioned and lubricated. It is found in skin, joints, and connective tissues.

Now, don’t be afraid of the word “acid” in its name: HA is a gentle hydrator for anyone’s skin. In fact, when it’s formulated for skincare, hyaluronic acid is like a sponge that finds up to 1,000 times its weight in water. HA is what gives your skin that plumpness!

What is Hyaluronic Acid Good For?

Skincare products with HA work hard to bring moisture to your skin all day by consistently drawing hydration from the air into your skin. In beauty lab tests, it shows that products with hyaluronic acid can hydrate the skin efficiently, sometimes 400% better than creams 18 times the price.

Here is what HA is best at:

• Hydrating. HA is a skin plumper by its way to obtain moisture. It helps to hydrate dry skin, providing a smoother, softer skin appearance.
• Anti-aging. As we age our skin produces less HA, contributing to the appearance of wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid hydrates and plumps skin to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Joint pain. Yes, it can help joint pain! Hyaluronic acid injections are also given to joints of people suffering from arthritis. HA supplements are also popular for those suffering from joint pain and osteopenia.

Are There Any Side Effects to Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is something your body naturally makes, so it is generally considered safe for all skin types. Allergic reactions to HA are rare, so that means whether you have oily, dry, sensitive, or combination skin, you have the green light to use hyaluronic acid products. HA is particularly helpful for parched skin in need of deep hydration.

What Hyaluronic Acid Products Are Best For The Skin?

Because it works by retaining skin moisture, HA is most often found in products that are left on the skin. It can be found in face creams, serums, eye creams, and body lotions. Here at Elements Salon and Wellness Spa, we have our very own Hyaluronic Acid Serum that is 100% pure. This serum is best used to put under your moisturizer, which will give you the best results.

Consult With Your Aesthetician

As always, it is best to consult with your aesthetician about what product is best for your skin type. However, the hyaluronic acid serum works on any skin type, given that it is water for your skin! Hopefully by reading this article, you are now an expert on HA and that it is really beneficial for your skin.

A good daily skincare routine is essential for maintaining that healthy, fresh looking skin. But, every once in a while, it is best to leave it to the aesthetician to really take care of your skin and give you the professional help your skin may need. More precisely, you should get a facial once a month or every 6 weeks.

What Does a Facial Consist Of?

A facial is a multi-step skin care treatment that includes steam, face masks, exfoliation, extractions if needed, cleansing, a face massage, and a variety of face lotions and creams. There are many types of facial treatments, and choosing the one you need depends on your skin type and skin issues. Some are highly moisturizing, others are firming and restoring, while some focus on problem areas and certain skin conditions.

Deep Cleansing Facial

A cleansing facial will help your skin get rid of oil buildup, toxins and dirt from your everyday environment, thoroughly removing all the bacteria that could cause skin issues.

A good deep cleansing facial would be a microdermabrasion facial. This facial will remove your dead skin cells from the surface of your skin and unclog the pores, allowing the absorption of other products. This will also make your skin look and feel softer and smoother, making your makeup blend easier and look better. 

Extractions, if needed, is great for removing blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and preventing breakouts. This is a must – do step for everyone struggling with acne because it clears out the skin and gives it a purifying effect.

Anti-Aging

Facial treatments can help slow down the aging process and prevent the appearance of wrinkles. Massaging your face with an anti-aging cream will immediately increase the blood circulation and oxygen flow, which promotes collagen production and enhances the elasticity of your skin. This leads to a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles and preventing their appearance. Remember, It’s never too early to take good care of your skin! 

Facials are Relaxing

Massages are great for relaxing, relieving stress and balancing your mind. Just like your body, your face muscles need a massage. The boost in circulation you’ll get will stimulate the lymphatic vessels and detoxify your skin, making it look healthy and youthful. The nice smell of face masks is an incredible addition to a soothing, relaxing experience. 

Promotes Skin Rejuvenation

The exfoliation, extraction, massage, steam and mask application during a facial treatment lead to skin rejuvenation, or in other words – a fresh, renewed skin. This will improve the look of your skin, giving your skin a healthy looking glow.

You might not see the results instantly, but in the long run, your skin is going to get restored! So keep in mind that being regular and consistent with your facials is key. 

Improved Skin Care Routine

An aesthetician will analyze your skin and help you choose the best facial treatment for your skin type. When talking to your aesthetician, you can pick up some good skin care advice and decide which products are best for at home use. This is important because you can use these tips to prevent further issues and keep your skin in good condition.

Treating a Variety of Skin Issues

Getting regular facials monthly will help treat any skin concerns you may have. Issues like blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, sunspots and sun damage, acne, inflammation and redness, rosacea, dehydration, wrinkles, acne scarring, loss of firmness and elasticity can be minimized or completely treated with the right facial treatment.

Treat Yourself!

Lastly, it is important to treat yourself to a relaxing facial. Not only is the facial relaxing, but your skin will look it’s best after getting regular treatments.

Having a little time for pampering yourself in a peaceful environment will definitely uplift your spirit and clear your mind. So once a month, take some time off and treat yourself!

Did you know that you need to wear sunscreen on your face year round? Even in the cold winter? Yes, it’s true! Now, this doesn’t necessarily mean you need to put on the same old sunscreen that your spray on your body when you go swimming. There are many moisturizers that have SPF in them to give your skin that moisture and glow while your protect your skin from the everyday sun rays.

Finding the right moisturizer for your skin that contains SPF is key. Everyone has a specific skin type and it’s important that you choose the facial moisturizer that’s best for you. Whether you have dry, oily, normal or a combination-type skin tone, using a facial moisturizer that contains SPF has become simpler and a popular skin care routine to achieve beautiful, healthy skin.

The Benefits of a Facial Moisturizer with SPF

There are many benefits that can be seen from choosing to integrate SPF into your daily facial moisturizing routine. This can take as little as a quick application of your daily facial moisturizing product, in the morning, before your skin is exposed to the sun through the course of your day.

• Skin protected from the sun through a facial moisturizer with SPF can help to retain the ability of collagen production. Without SPF within your moisturizer, the moisture within your skin is depleted from sun exposure. Skin creates collagen. With the ability of the skin to create collagen, the skin not only can appear moisturized but also be less prone to fine lines and wrinkles.
• A good facial moisturizer with SPF can reduce the instance of developing carcinoma of the skin.
• Using a facial moisturizer with SPF can reduce the chance in which laser or cosmetic procedures are required to correct damage that has already been caused by the skin.
• As part of the natural aging process of the skin, many people experience discoloration through certain areas of the skin. These discolored areas of the skin can be reduced through proper protection from the sun through the use of facial moisturizing products that contain SPF.

What We Have Learned

Studies have shown that using SPF 30 in your moisturizers are much more effective than using SPF 15. Using a good facial moisturizer with SPF is also an effective way to reduce the amount of products used in your daily skin care routine. Rather than using a facial moisturizer and applying a sun protection product over it, it’s much simpler to combine the two and use one product on the skin that will fully protect the skin.

Before deciding whether a good facial moisturizer is right for you, consider your specific skin tone needs. This is the most important part of selecting any good product; a facial moisturizer with SPF or not.

Choosing a good facial moisturizer with SPF keeps the skin protected from the sun, keeps skin moisturized, prevents wrinkles and fine lines, can help prevent the development of cancer, lessen the need for cosmetic surgery in the future and reduce the chance of discoloration of the skin.

A Good Tip About SPF

Your lips are a prime spot for skin cancer to develop because they are exposed to the sun rays year round and we often forget to apply the sunscreen on the lips.

Lipstick or lip balm that contains SPF 30 or above will really protect your lips from getting burnt and help prevent skin cancer. To be effective, you must reapply your lipstick or lip balm throughout the day.

But beware of products that contain no SPF, especially those that are glossy. Lip gloss without SPF can actually be worse than putting nothing on your lips. It is basically like spreading baby oil on your lips, which intensifies the amount of sun rays on your lips and can cause severe burning.

Do you ever wonder if waxing is ultimately the best for your skin? Are you tired of shaving every week just to find razor bumps and burns on your skin? Well, waxing may just be the answer for you.

Waxing swiftly pulls hair from the root through repetitive tugs. Shaving is more of a trim, only removing hair from the surface of the skin and leaving the root intact.

When going to a professional, they will either use hard or soft wax and cloth or paper strips to gently remove the hair. The purpose of the wax is to remove the hair from the root, making the hair appear thinner over time. Waxing can be done anywhere on your body and the pain is only moderate, depending on the area. The results of waxing last up to 3-4 weeks, while shaving can last up to 3 days.

Process of Wax

Waxing involves a warm mixture that’s applied to the skin and removed quickly once it cools. There are two different types of wax: soft and hard wax.

Soft wax requires strips to remove and is made with rosin, oils, and other additives. The wax is applied, and the strip is placed on top to remove the hair against the direction of growth.

Hard waxes firm up on their own and are made from beeswax, resin, and oils. Unlike soft waxes, hard waxes remove hair without strips.

Which Area Does Wax Work Best On?

This depends on your preference, but some find shaving easier to perform on a day to day basis for the underarms, legs and bikini area.

However, if you are looking for long term effects, waxing is best for the underarms, legs and bikini area.

For the bikini area, waxing is more precise and can result in less razor bumps because of the delicate skin area.

Benefits of Waxing

One of the main benefits of waxing is that it lightly exfoliates your skin. Because the wax adheres to the top layer of skin, it can remove dead skin cells to reveal a softer underlying layer.

Your skin will be less prone to inflammation. With this, you will have less of that annoying itch and prickliness that comes with shaving.

A big benefit of waxing is that you don’t have to worry about the knicks and cuts! A professional will gently remove your unwanted hair with wax, leaving your skin feeling silky smooth. Waxing will also give you less of a chance of those stubborn ingrown hairs.

How Often to Wax?

Waxing can only be done when the hair is between 1/4- to 1/2-inch long. This means you should usually wax once every 3 to 4 weeks. Shaving can be done as often as necessary, but keep in mind that more frequent shaving may cause irritation in sensitive skin.

What To Do Before Your Waxing Appointment

Before a waxing appointment, grow your hair out to at least 1/4-inch long. If it’s longer than 1/2 inch, you might have to trim it.

The day before, make sure you don’t exfoliate, tan, or dry out your skin with swimming. The day of, avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol and wearing lotions or creams.

To decrease pain, take an over-the-counter pain medication 30 minutes before your appointment.

The Bottom Line

After your waxing appointment, you can return to exfoliating 24 hours after waxing. Keep the area moisturized in order to prevent itching and irritation.

If you are still uncertain if waxing is the best choice for your skin, consult your aesthetician. It is important to know what choice is best for your skin and will not cause irritation.

As these two massage are typically the popular choices to choose from, there is quite a difference between the two. Swedish massage promotes relaxation while a deep tissue massage unknots the deeper stressed muscles. Swedish massage is executed in slow, circular movements with even pressure to enhance the circulatory system. Deep tissue massage, on the other hand, is more focused on specific parts of the body which experiences pain.

Swedish Massage

The Swedish massage is a form of massage done by long circular strokes. The Swedish massage is primarily used to induce relaxation for stressed and overly active muscles. The purpose of the Swedish massage aside from relaxation is to enhance the circulation of blood all over the body to increase the functions of the nervous system.

One of the biggest benefits of the Swedish massage is that it can boost your mood significantly. Studies have shown that massage can increase serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin, which all help to elevate your mood and general well-being.

The Swedish massage also helps to reduce stress and anxiety. With that being said, it can also improve your sleep. There has been a study that found that massage therapy improved the quality of sleep in breast cancer patients. Better sleep, in turn, reduces stress and anxiety levels.

Deep Tissue

Deep tissue massage is used to relieve stressed muscles, especially in the neck, arm, leg and thigh areas. This type of massage is aimed at the tissues that normal massages could not reach and the muscles that are usually stressed than the others. A hard pressure needs to be applied in order to obtain results with deep tissue massage. A deeper pressure should be expected with this massage, however, if you experience any pain, please consult your therapist.

This massage helps to break up scar tissue that forms following an injury and reduce tension in muscle and tissue. It may also promote faster healing by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation.

Unlike the Swedish massage that focuses on relaxation, deep tissue massage helps to treat muscle pain and improve stiffness. But it can still help to you unwind mentally, too. Some people have reported that the deep tissues massage helps in:

*Sports injuries

*Fibromylagia

*Plantar Fasciitis

*High blood pressure

*Sciatica

*Tennis elbow

Key Differences Between Swedish Massage and Deep Tissue

*Intended use: Deep tissue massage is primarily used to treat chronic pain and muscle and sports-related injuries. Swedish massage is mainly used to promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension caused by everyday activities, such as sitting at a computer.

*Pressure: The Swedish massage is a gentler massage compared to the deep tissue, which provides firm pressure. Both types involve use of the palms and fingers to knead and manipulate your tissues, but the elbows and forearms may also be used to apply increased pressure during a deep tissue massage.

*Area of focus:  Deep tissue massage targets the inner layers of your muscles. It’s used to treat muscle and tendon injuries, pain, and stiffness in your major muscle groups and joints. Swedish massage targets the superficial layers of muscle and focuses on the parts of your body that tend to hold the most tension, such as your neck, shoulders, and back.

Overall:

Our massage therapists at Elements Salon and Wellness Spa are here to provide expert care on any concerns with your body. If you are still having a hard time deciding between the two massages, your therapist will consult with you on what the best massage is. Hopefully by reading this article, you are now an expert on Swedish and deep tissue massages!

If you are interested in going blonde, it is important to take a look at the different types of blonde to choose from. Ranging from lily white to darker, almost brown hues, blonde hair has the versatility to cater to all skin types. When it comes to bleaching your hair blonde, it needs to be kept in mind that the shade that is chosen doesn’t wash you out. Here are the six most popular shades of blonde described.

Platinum Blonde Hair

Platinum blonde is the lightest shade of blonde you can do. Platinum blonde can come in different hues as well, ranging from completely white to yellow/golden. This shade goes best with pale to medium toned skin and is really great with bright brown or blue eyes.

Baby Blonde Hair

Otherwise known as ‘natural blonde hair’, this blonde coloring looks very natural in terms of the highlights and lowlights that are used to achieve this look. Baby blonde can either be on the lighter or darker side in terms of shades. Of course, if you’re darker then you should use darker shades of blonde, and vice versa if you’re very light/pale. This will make sure that your end result comes out looking as natural as possible.

Strawberry Blonde Hair

This shade of blonde features a faint reddish appearance, giving it that strawberry blonde look. Depending on the amount of red put into the hair, it is easily mistaken for being called ‘redhead’. Strawberry blonde tends to look great on all skin types depending on the shades used.

Golden Blonde Hair

On the darker side of the blonde spectrum, golden blonde hair is the healthiest looking shade of blonde. The key to achieving a successful golden blonde hair color is by choosing a color that won’t come out brassy and by adding dimension through high and low lights within the same color.

Ash Blonde Hair

If you’ve ever seen hair with a subtle gray appearance, then it was more than likely an ash blonde color. This color is a great option for women who are looking for a softer look, as opposed to being boldly blonde. The gray tint gives it a more mature look, so this color is great for women who are starting to actually go gray. Ash blonde tends to looks best on pale to medium skin tone.

Honey Blonde Hair

Honey blonde features brown lowlights which make it the perfect blonde for women with darker skin tones. This color tends to work great on medium-dark skin tones since it’s not as light and won’t be too harsh for the skin. If you’re on the pale side, you may want to lighten this color up with some highlights around the face so that it doesn’t wash you out.

Overall

If you are tired of the basic hair color and want that gorgeous blonde to make your hair brighter, you can try full highlights or even balayage that can blend different shades into your natural look.

So, which one is your favorite shade of blonde?

Are you looking for smoother, straighter hair? Maybe a way to tame the frizz in your hair? Well, the keratin complex treatment could be the perfect solution for you.

What is Keratin?

Keratin is a protein that is naturally in your hair. It is the key structural material for making up hair. Keratin is extremely insoluble in water and organic solvents. Keratin monomers assemble into bundles to form filaments, which are tough and form a strong bond for your hair.

How does it work?

The hairstylist will apply a keratin hair-straightening product to your hair and then uses the heat of a flat iron to seal it in. The process takes about 90 minutes or longer, depending on the length of your hair. The entire process will straighten out your hair texture and completely eliminate frizz for up to three months.

Time Saving

Once getting the treatment, it will shorten your blow-dry time by 40%-60%.

Keratin treatments every three months can be healthier for your hair than daily heat styling.

While the high heat (450 degrees) of the flatiron used to set the treatment is not the easiest on your hair, it’s still probably better than heat styling yourself day in and day out.  If having a treatment allows you to set aside your iron, the single dose of high heat may be well worth it.

What to Know After the Treatment

You can forget about frizzy hair! You can walk out in moist or light rain and your hair will not change.

You shouldn’t wash your hair for three to four days after getting the treatment. That is because the solution takes time to work, and showering before three days can ruin the treatment.

After getting the keratin complex treatment, and after the don’t wash period, you should use a Keratin Complex shampoo and conditioner to care for your new treatment. The shampoo and conditioner gently cleanses and helps restore strength and shine to your hair.

The Keratin Treatment will not make your hair break. Keratin is a restorative treatment. Even if you have good hair strength now, it still strengthens the hair shaft and makes your hair more resilient.

Takeaway

By applying keratin to your hair cuticle and sealing it in with heat, your hair takes on a glossier appearance. Your hair will be smoother and easier to manage on the daily. The effects vary greatly depending on whether your hair is healthy to begin with and what the natural thickness of your hair is.

Keratin works by smoothing down the cells that overlap to form your hair strands. The layers of cells, called the hair cuticle, absorb the keratin, resulting in hair that looks full and shiny. Keratin also makes curly hair less frizzy, easier to style, and straighter in appearance.