Archive for the ‘Skincare’ Category

3 Best Organic or Natural Skin Care Products for Spring

Spring, is a fantastic time to examine your skin care routine. As the weather begins to change, your skins needs change with it. Instead of needing the intense moisture you typically need in winter. Look for products that offer hydration and revitalizing nutrients. Being inside during the grey wintry months can leave skin under nourished and dull. By choosing a nutrient rich moisturizer, you help to restore the natural beauty of your skin.

To celebrate Earth Day, this week I swapped out the majority of my cosmetics for natural ones. I have a tendency to accumulate samples and travel sizes, so I had quite a few available. As the end of the week is approaching, there are definitely a few that will be finding a permanent home in my Spring Skin Care routine!

Eminence Thermal Spring Whip Moisturizer

Spring in Vancouver tends to jump between incredibly cold and windy to bright sunny days with little warning. I still like a Thicker moisturizer, one that is going to help repair wind damage, and keep me feeling dewy soft. The scent is fresh and light, peppermint but not overwhelming.  One thing that makes this cream perfect for spring is that it offers both hydration and healing. It works with Sage, and anti-inflammatory  and Horsetail, full of healing, tissue strengthening, flavinoids, to leave skin smooth, clear and ready for what ever the weather.

Burt’s Bees Orange Essence Facial Cleanser

During a recent interview with Cosmo, Emma Stone mentioned her love for Burt’s Bees, especially their cleansers. A relitively new line to Spa Boutique, I’ve been using Burt’s Bees since I was in High School. In fact, the shimmers and tinted balms were the only lip colour my mom would let me buy. (Lipstick was banned pretty much until prom!). Recently, they’ve started carrying a variety of natural skincare products, most of which are at least 90% natural, if not 100%.

The reason why I’m singling out this cleanser, other than Emma’s recommendation, is the natural exfoliation that helps clear away   the winter skin. This allows your fresh spring glow to shine through! Plus, it removes most makeup (except waterproof mascara).

GM Collin Bio Organique Energizing Mask: Masque Energisant

My midweek treat is to do a deeply hydrating masque. I find the weekend gets so packed, that I barely have time to get laundry done let alone fit in a little me time. Instead, I set aside an hour either Wednesday or Thursday while my husband gets dinner ready and sneak off to spa-land.

GM Collin, makes a fantastic soothing, hydrating masque that really focuses on restoring a healthy glow to tired and dull skin.  Winter always leaves me feeling drained and this masque helps brighten my skin. This week, I really enjoyed switching my regular masque (Laboratoire Dr Renaud Hydrascience Multi-hydrating Mask – Masque Multi-hydratant Hydrascience) for this one. It left even my skin glowing! I’m not sure if I’m ready to completely switch over, but it’s a fantastic treat when you really need that boost of nutrition.

As always, just for being a follower of our blog, enter coupon code BLOG10 for 10% off your next purchase! Also, remember to follow us @spaboutique on Twitter, like our Facebook  page, and check out our boards on Pinterest! You could be the lucky winner of one of our many contests!

GUEST BLOG: The Benefits of Re-Hydration

Today’s Guest Blog was Written by Sherina Jamal CEO of Ancient Secrets Inc and developer of the Beauty Through Balance

After coming through colder temperatures skin on the face and body can become imbalanced, dry and dehydrated! As we prepare for warmer weather this is a great time to think about ways to naturally restore hydration and skin’s overall tone & texture.

So let’s talk re-hydration….

A product that claims to re-hydrate should offer ingredients that are small enough to penetrate and bring moisture into the skin to correct and re-balance the lipid barrier and moisture levels. Other supportive ingredients such as butters, natural plant oils, extracts and essential oils can offer nourishment, increased moisture and improved skin texture

One of the most superior ingredients that can offer this is Hyaluronic acid.  This ingredient can hold 100x its weight in water and has the ability to draw moisture into the skin.  It not only offers re-balancing of moisture levels but also can address signs of age.  Products from the Beauty Through Balance Spa line, such as the Glacial Revitalizing Mist and Hydra Skin Renewal Gel Mask both contain hyaluronic acid as well as Vitamin C, green tea, and seaweed. Both products  can be used on face & body by all skin types to re-hydrate, re-balance, soothe and repair!

The Glacial Revitalizing Mist is not only a gentle skin re-balance/mild toner but can also be applied before and after make-up application and will leave skin hydrated with a natural glow! Check out our new Gift With Purchase Promotion to see how you can receive a FREE travel size Glacial Revitalizing Mist.

Don’t forget that drinking enough water and eating mineral rich foods such as green leafy organic vegetables and seaweed can play a key role in keeping the skin re-hydrated and re-balanced!

 

*Written by Sherina Jamal CEO of Ancient Secrets Inc and developer of the Beauty Through Balance spa line locally made in BC Canada. Sherina is an established educator in the areas of natural skin care and ingredients and her articles have been published in top spa, health and beauty magazines. 

 

As always, just for being a follower of our blog, enter coupon code BLOG10 for 10% off your next purchase! Also, remember to follow us @spaboutique on Twitter, like our Facebook  page, and check out our boards on Pinterest! You could be the lucky winner of one of our many contests!

 

BEHIND BEAUTY: SUMMER’S COMING: A FEW TIPS TO CONQUER CELLULITE

With summer around the corner, it’s important to start getting your beach bod ready. If you’re like 90% of women, this probably means tackling your cellulite. But what is cellulite? Why do we get it? How can it be prevented? Every day, millions of women struggle with these very questions. Today, we’re offering answers.

What is Cellulite?

This lumpy, bumpy skin that tends to resemble the surface of an orange is caused when fat cells press against the vertical connective tissue. Often, this results in the dimpled texture. Cosmo Magazine even compares the effect to you skin pushing through fishnet stockings.

It’s not just an excess of fat that causes cellulite. In “The Cellulite Solution”, Dr. Murad argues that, “cellulite is caused by skin that has deteriorated to the point that buoyant fat cells are able to push into the dermis, the middle layer of skin, and show through the surface.” (pg. 8) Murad believes that to truly treat cellulite, the entire body must be brought into focus.

Most commonly occurring on the thighs and buttocks, there are many theories as to why people get Cellulite. Science has managed to narrow it down to genetics, hormones, lifestyle, diet, and clothing.

How Do I Prevent Cellulite?

There is no magic formula to living cellulite free. However, there are a lot of way you can reduce your chances of developing an uneven skin texture.

First, minimize your intake of saturated fats, junk food, diet pop, sugar and salt. Overly processed foods contain bad fats that accumulate on the body, increasing your chances of developing cellulite. Salt encourages your body to retain fluids instead of passing them naturally. This can increase the appearance of cellulite.  By decreasing the amount of bad fats in your diet, your body will be healthier. Additionally, opt for skin nourishing foods, such as berries, avocado, almonds, and cold water fish.

Most importantly, drink lots of water, about 8 8oz glasses a day. This helps to clear toxins from your body. Hiding between layers of fat cells, toxins can make cellulite look more pronounced. Cut out smoking and decrease your alcohol intake as both these habits add toxins to your body and can aggravate cellulite. Also, limit caffeine. A chemical that actively constricts blood vessels, caffeine can make  your cellulite worse.

How Do I Fight Cellulite?

Exercise 
Combine moderate aerobic exercise with strength training. Aerobic exercise helps to eliminate the fat cells causing cellulite. However, as our bodies require fat cells to function, it’s difficult to completely eliminate cellulite through aerobic exercise alone.  By increasing muscle tone through strength training, skin texture even out. The new muscle cells help to fill in the gaps.

Body Brushing 
Choose a brush with soft, natural bristles and a long handle. Thoroughly brush your entire body. The brushing helps to exfoliate the skin and increase blood flow. This helps cellulite by bringing nutrients and oxygen to the outer layer of the skin. By keeping skin healthy and strong, cellulite decreases. Use on a daily basis, moving from the toes up and finishing with your hands. Avoid brushing your face, as the bristles can harm delicate facial skin.

Massage
Like body brushing, Massage is a great way to stimulate circulation and drain away any excess fluids. It also loosens and softens the cells beneath the skin to help even out the surface texture.

Supplements
Adding a supplement or multi-vitamin to your routine will help to improve overall health as well as skin texture. Some brands produce supplements designed specifically to fight cellulite.

Topical Creams & Treatments
Cellulite products help treat some of the surface issues, but should be combined with deeper treatments, such as massage, bod brushing, and dietary adjustments. Some of the best creams contain caffeine. While on the inside this ingredient can aggravate cellulite, used as a topical treatment, it firms skin and helps improve texture.

Laser Treatment
A little on the extreme and expensive side, there are a variety of laser treatments available and results very greatly from person to person.

There are so many products on the market to treat, fight, and prevent cellulite. We polled our staff and here are their top recommendations:

Golden Moor Scorpion Brush A brush that uses 137 massaging fingers to stimulate the skin to reduce the look of cellulite.
Aromatherapy Associates Body Brush The brushing action immediately stimulates circulation and boosts cell renewal which effectively improves skin tone and texture by removing toxins.
Murad Skin Care The Cellulite Solution A fantastic book that outlines simple changes that can drastically reduce and repair cellulite.
Cellex-C Body Smoothing Lotion Minimizes the appearance of cellulite while helping to tone and firm sagging skin, giving the skin a smoother, sleeker appearance in 5 to 8 weeks
Aromatherapy Associates Enrich Body Scrub A coffee based scrub that cleans and tones to invigorate and revive dull looking skin.
Thalgo Celluceane Supplement – Anti Cellulite, Heavy Leg These are the ingredients that sea has to offer to work on your legs making them look beautiful and shapely, so regain light and energized legs and diminish any unflattering curves.

As always, just for being a follower of our blog, enter coupon code BLOG10 for 10% off your next purchase! Also, remember to follow us @spaboutique on Twitter, like our Facebook  page, and check out our boards on Pinterest! You could be the lucky winner of one of our many contests!

Guest Blog: Don’t Let Your Skin Slow You Down

Today’s Blog Post comes from Valerie Johnston, a health and fitness writer for Healthline.com.

Your skin is beautiful. It glows when you are happy, blushes when you flirt, and prickles when you shiver. Your skin is the largest organ in your body. That means all sorts of outside influences can have an impact on how it looks and feels. There are many different conditions that could affect the look of your complexion, especially on your face.

Two of the most common things you may deal with, even in adulthood, include Sensitive Skin and Acne. With a few simple steps, you can avoid the problems associated with these conditions and continue to enjoy your beautiful, clear, glowing skin.

What You Need to Know about Acne

Many people may think that acne is only for teenagers, but it’s time to think again. Anyone can deal with breakouts, even adults in their 30s and 40s. Acne certainly doesn’t have to rule your life, though. You just need to know a little more about it.

You have pores in your skin. They are small openings that basically let your skin breathe. If they become blocked, then fluid or infection can build up causing breakouts, zits, pimples, or whatever you would like to call them. With simple steps, though, you can keep that acne at bay:

- Keep your face clean. Wash thoroughly in the morning and at night. Avoid harsh cleansers that may be too abrasive to the skin and actually cause further breakouts. Instead opt for a product that suits your skin type and consult with an esthetician.

- Always, always make sure you remove all makeup at night. Makeup will clog pores and can be your downfall if you leave it on while you sleep.

- Use a moisturizer. That sounds kind of odd since oily skin often contributes to acne, but you need to replenish natural moisture to keep your face from producing too much oil. Make sure you choose a moisturizer that doesn’t clog pores (non-comedogenic).

- Avoid touching your face. You carry around all sorts of dirt, oil, and other things on your hands. There is so much bacteria there even if you wash your hands regularly. The more you touch your face, the more you are transferring that bacteria, and this will cause breakouts.

- Avoid too much sunlight. Sunshine may give you that warm glow, but it can actually make acne worse. Make sure to use at least a 30 SPF sunblock. Physical sunscreens are still the most effective protection. If you choose a chemical one, make sure you reapply every 2 hours to ensure maximum protection.

- Avoid foods like French fries, pizza, fried chicken, and chocolate, all of which may contribute to your acne.

Products for Adult Acne:

VivierSkin Oily or Acne Prone Skin System (6 PC)
Obagi CLENZIderm Acne Therapeutic System Normal-Oily Skin
GM Collin 3 pc Travel Kits – Acne

What You Need to Know about Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, then it can easily get irritated and this may make your complexion uneven. There are some things you can do to take care of that beautiful skin and avoid any irritation.

- Drink plenty of water and add a little lemon, which will help to detoxify.

- Always use sunscreen when you will be outside. Make sure you choose a sunblock that is fragrance free. A physical SPF is extremely beneficial to sensitive skin types. However, if you opt for a chemical one, make sure to reapply every 2 hours.

- Choose lotions and other skin products that are all fragrance free. Fragrances can be one of the biggest irritants to your skin.

- Never wash your face with hot water.

- Avoid cleansers and soaps that are too harsh.

Keep your skincare routine basic: A Sensitive Cleanser, Toner and Moisturizer. If you would like to sure a serum, make sure to choose one designed for sensitive skin, such as GM Collin Vasco-Tonic Serum

Products for Sensitive Skin:

Eminence Red Rose Collection for Sensitive Skin
Murad Skin Care Sensitive/Dry Skin Acne Regimen
VivierSkin Dry, Sensitive Skin System

Your skin is beautiful all on its own, and you can do little things to keep it healthy and clear. You may suffer from acne or sensitive skin, but there are simple things you can do in your life to relieve those symptoms and keep your glow.

Valerie Johnston is a health and fitness writer located in East Texas. With ambitions of one day running a marathon, writing for Healthline.com ensures she keeps up-to-date on all of the latest health and fitness news.

 

How to Talk to your Teen about Pimples

Zit, Pimple, Acne, Blemish- We’ve all had our fair share of nasty visitors. Over time, I’ve come to accept that, no matter what I do inevitably, one will pop up when I least expect it. Now, acceptance took a long time, as did my own acne journey. How do you prepare a child for the world of the Blemish Battle?  How to explain that first nasty surprise can kick off a decade of frustration? By helping your teen to understand where pimples come from and giving them the skills to treat them, you’re aiding their first steps toward skin care independence.

First, Be Prepared.

Make sure you’ve scheduled enough time to have a complete conversation, demonstrate the products, and answer any questions that might arise. Sometimes things are more complicated then they seem, a conversation about that pimple may be an opening for your child to talk about other, underlying body image issues. Instead worrying about being late for to soccer, give yourself enough time to let the conversation evolve. Also, make sure you’ve created a distraction free zone. Turn off your cell and focus. This can be a pivotal moment in your relationship, make sure your child is your complete focus.

Remember, you do not want to make your child feel worse about their pimples. Instead aim to create an environment that is positive and empowering. Be Open. Listen. Share your Journey. 

Also, you know that prom picture where you have that pimple on your nose? The one hidden in the back of your closets… try bringing that too. We’ve all had a red monster pop up at an inconvenient time. Be prepared with an amusing or embarrassing anecdote about your own experience.

Make sure to bring an Acne Treatment Starter Kit suitable for your child’s skin type.  Read the instructions beforehand. This way, you will be prepared to demonstrate the product and understand what each step is supposed to do.  Most treatments take at least 4 weeks to be fully effective. Don’t be discouraged if your child doesn’t see immediate results, instead encourage them to give the product the “4 week test” and then decide. Often, it can take a few tries before finding the perfect product.

Some of our Favourite Acne Treatment Starter Kits:

Obagi CLENZIderm Acne Therapeutic System Normal-Oily Skin
Obagi CLENZIderm Acne Therapeutic System Normal-Dry Skin
Laboratoire Dr Renaud Clear Up Starter Kit – Kit de départ Clear Up
Murad Skin Care Acne Complex

Next, Explain Clearly.

Teenage acne is primarily caused by hormone fluctuations. It usually strikes between the ages of 10 and 13 and continues into the early 20s. The body is starting to produce different hormones to help with growth. Often, the skin produces too much of a protective oil called sebum. When sebum builds up on your skin, it can trap dead skin cells and bacteria in the pores. Once inside the clogged pores, bacteria rapidly multiply causing the red, swollen bumps we call pimples.

All of which sounds pretty gross. However, it’s important to know that these are usually naturally occurring bacteria that live on everyone’s skin. Having acne does not mean that skin is “Dirty” or “Bacteria Ridden”.  Often, Acne prone teens will be teased for being “Unclean”. This may lead to over scrubbing the face, which can actually make the acne worse!

Other things that can make teen acne worse?

• Stress – Being overly stressed out can cause more pimples through triggering the glands to produce more oil.
• Menstrual Cycle/Period – Talk about hormone changes! The internal shifts right before your period can cause sudden breakouts.
• Diet – A very controversial topic, many people feel your diet can influence but not eliminate acne. Avoid greasy or oily foods and swap out sugary pop for water.
• Oil Based Makeup, Suntan Oil, Hair Oils, and any other extra Oil – Adding more oil to your skin either deliberately or accidentally can result in an increased number of clogged pores.
• Popping Existing Pimples – This spreads the bacteria across your skin, increasing the likelihood of another breakout.
• Over Scrubbing – Like popping, this helps to spread the bacteria across the skin. Instead, use a cleanser twice a day as recommended.

Acne is the single most common skin condition, affecting almost everyone at some point in their lives. Reassure your child with some of your own experiences. Remember that Prom picture we talked about? This is the opportunity to share it. Most likely, your child’s acne experience will be similar to your own. Give them a heads up and let them know how you managed.

Finally, Give Them The Tools.

Start with a simple kit, especially for younger children. Make sure the routine includes a cleanser, active acne- fighting toner, and moisturizer.  To make sure the acne-fighting ingredients in the toner are effective, it needs to be applied to clean skin. Also, you want to lock in the treatment with a moisturizer.

A fantastic new product is the BB Cream. Originating in Germany and gaining popularity in Korea before arriving in North America. An “All-In-One” Cream,  BB Creams are often a moisturizer, primer, sunscreen, foundation, pimple preventer, imperfection hider and anti-aging helper. It’s great if you’re not quite ready to let your child out of the house in full makeup, but understand the confidence boost of an even completion. Designed to be subtle, even teenage boys have had success with  BB Creams! Just make sure to properly colour match to keep it looking natural. Our most popular are the Jane Iredale Disappear Camouflage Cream with Green Tea Extract and Yonka Tinted Protection BB Cream: Creme Teintee.

If the acne progresses from the occasional breakout to constant redness, make sure to take your child to a dermatologist. A professional has access to stronger treatments. and will be able to investigate as to whether there is a deeper cause to your teens acne. Pay attention to any dosage requirements and make sure your teen doesn’t exceed them.

 

As always, just for being a follower of our blog, enter coupon code BLOG10 for 10% off your next purchase! Also, remember to follow us @spaboutique on Twitter, like our Facebook  page, and check out our boards on Pinterest! You could be the lucky winner of one of our many contests!