BLOG | BEHIND BEAUTY | SPA BOUTIQUE | SKINCARE / MAKEUP / HAIR / NAILS / NATURAL / PLEASURE / HEALTH / FAMILY

Posts Tagged ‘beauty skin tips’

BEHIND BEAUTY: TOP 5 SKIN ERRORS

No Comments »

Tuesday March 26th, 2013

Skin Care ErrorsThis week we polled our estheticians as to the most common skin errors people make. Some skin care mistakes are more obvious then others, such as a leaving a chemical peel on too long, over tanning, or popping pimples. However, a lot of mistakes stem from not knowing how to correctly use a product, or neglecting to follow a few basic rules.

1. Don’t Skip Steps in Your Beauty Routine

Some days, being beautiful can seem like a tot of work. There’s a reason why models and actresses have a team of people to get them down that red carpet. Most of us have a small bathroom, bad lighting and not enough counter space. But skipping that cleanser or your bi-weekly exfoliating treatment can take a toll on your skin. Oils build up and can cause break outs. Additionally, by skipping your exfoliating treatment, you leave dead skin cells on your face and don’t promote the younger ones to the surface. If you’re using a deep penetrating serum, exfoliation is key to seeing results. Serums work to nourish deep beneath the skins surface. By neglecting to exfoliate, you’re not allowing those nourished cells to rise to the surface. For a busy woman, spending five extra minutes on your skin can seem like a lot. Shift your thinking, it’s not an obligation, it’s a treat! This is pamper yourself time. Invest in a finishing product you love, such as amazing moisturizer (for night) or premium mascara for day.  By finishing with a product you love, you’re more likely to make it through the entire routine. It’s the dessert after a meal!

2. Make Sleep is Sacred

Most adults are not getting enough sleep. A lack of sleep is damaging to your body. You need to rest in order to recover and repair yourself. It also give the light-sensitive active ingredients in your moisturizer a chance to do their job. If your stuggling to get enough sleep, or you just can seem to get to bed before midnight, make sure you’re getting a quality sleep. Make your bed into a restful place. A place for sleep, relaxation and sex, not for work or television. What makes going to bed difficult? Identify The Issue. Then, Correct It. Are the sheets not quite right? Invest in quality sheets and satin pillowcases (they help reduce those pillow wrinkles).  The room too cold? Bump the thermostat or try a small space heater.   By Creating a comfortable space, you’ll relax and fall asleep faster resulting in a longer, better sleep.

Also, don’t sleep with your makeup on. It can ruin those new linens! Plus, your skin needs the break. You put on pajamas to climb into bed, and your skin needs the same. Makeup clogs the pores and inhibits the natural skin cycle. This can cause breakouts and long term damage.  Swap off that foundation for an effective nighttime moisturizer. Your skin will thank you.

How to Chose A Sunscreen3. Always Wear Sunscreen

Sun Damage is the biggest cause of pre-mature aging.  The over exposure to sunlight, especially tanning and burning, can cause the skin to develop wrinkles, brown spots, and a rough, leathery texture. Not to mention dramatically increase your risk for skin cancer.

Just because it’s overcast, is not excuse to skip the sun screen! The sun is the most powerful object in our solar system, the radiation still penetrates the clouds. Plus, the reflective surfaces of buildings and clouds can amplify the effects as the rays bounce against your skin.

Pick a sunscreen that is over SPF 15 with UVA and UVB protection for everyday and one at least SPF 30  for prolonged or direct exposure. The SPF is calculated by how long you can experience sun exposure before skin damage occurs. Usually, based on 10 minute intervals. So, an SPF of 15 would allow a person to spend 150 minutes in the sun before burning. This makes it perfect for everyday use.

Check out some great Sun Protection here.

4. Eat Every Colour!

Often, we get into a rut in terms of what we eat. I know I am a huge sucker for a medium pizza on a Friday Night. But, to keep your skin clear and healthy, you need to make sure what you’re putting into your body matches what your putting on it. When preparing a meal, it’s always good to try and include several skin friendly foods, such as spinach, blueberries, carrots, avocados  cold water fish (such as wild salmon), almonds, flax seeds  tomatoes, sweet potatoes, dark chocolate, mangoes  broccoli, citrus, lean meats, or red wine.  A good trick is to ensure that you have a variety of colours on your plate. Does the plate look a little monochrome? Try adding some chopped veggies to the side of a plate. Or, opt for a bowl of berries for dessert!

5.  Stay Hydrated

Drink water. Most research recommends 6-8 glasses a day. Which is more then a little intimidating. The goal of hydrating for skin health is to prevent dehydration and dryness, as they can exasperate fine lines and wrinkles. Start by adding an extra glass first thing in the morning, before you reach for that cup of coffee.  By keeping your skin hydrated from the inside, your moisturizer will be more effective as it can lock in more moisture. Lately, there’s been a lot of conflicting research when it comes to water. However, it does help remove toxins and keeps your body healthy.

These Simple techniques will radically improve the health of your skin, as well as keeping your body happy too!

10% Percent offAs 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!

Breanne Fultz Spa Boutique

We’re Buzzing for Burt’s Bees!!!

No Comments »

Friday February 22nd, 2013

Buy Burt's Bees in Canada

Spa Boutique is excited to add Burt’s Bees Canada to our Natural Skin Care Section!

Full disclosure, I LOVE this brand! There was a summer I practically lived in their lip shimmer! With the majority of their Canadian line now available through SpaBoutique.ca, I’m really excited.

One of the most exceptional things about Burt’s Bees is their commitment to living their company motto, “Earth friendly natural personal care for the Greater Good.” Currently, they produce Zero Waste. One of their main sustainability goals is 100% Post Consumer Recycled and Biodegradable or Compostable packaging by 2020.  Burt’s Bees uses as many natural ingredients as possible. There are no Sulfates, Parabens, Phthalates or Petrochemicals in any Burt’s Bees products.  Currently, the majority of the products contain 95 – 100% natural ingredients. However, they plan to produce 100% of the product line 100% natural by 2020.

With over 100 products landing in our warehouse, I’ve put together a quick guide to some of the most popular of these fantastic natural products:

For the Baby Bees

Burt's Baby BeeMoms are becoming increasingly concerned about the ingredients used in their products, especially when it comes to what they use on their little ones. Burt’s Baby Bees is ALWAYS my first recommendation. In fact the Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Getting Started Kit (5 pc) is my go to baby shower gift! Their Baby Bee line is natural, gentle, and safe. The star of this section? Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Multipurpose Ointment. A petroleum-free, multi-purpose ointment, it forms a barrier against dryness, moisturizes and smoothes the most delicate skin. All of the Baby Bee products are amazing and it’s been a bit of a challenge to narrow down my top picks… but I have to mention the Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Tear Free Shampoo & Body Wash! It’s an all-in-one that’s truly an ALL-in-ONE, great as a body wash and a shampoo. It’s a huge time saver for a babe who doesn’t like bath time AND can be used by a busy mom too!

Head to Toe Natural Care

Burt's Bees Body ButterIt’s difficult to introduce the entire scope of their Face and Body care in only a few words as each product offers a variety of benefits. Some of the notable products include Burt’s Bees Radiance Day Crème,  Burt’s Bees Body Butter and Burt’s Bees Hand Salve  just to name a few! Whether you’re looking to add a few new natural products to your routine or switch over completely, they’ve got you covered.

Men’s Natural Skincare

Not to leave the boys feeling left out, there are a couple of really great products for men specifically. Especially popular are the Burt’s Bees Natural Skin Care for Men Bar Soap (110 g)  and the Burt’s Bees Natural Skin Care for Men Shave Cream (175 ml). I’ve given my boy both to try and, while reluctant at first, he’s really come around, especially since his skin is a little sensitive. Now that he’s one with the shaving cream, he doesn’t get nearly as much razor burn. In fact, the Men’s Natural Skin Care line was one of Esquire’s top pick

Lip Balms & More

Lip Balms, Shimmers, and GlossesFinally, to my favourite category, the lip products. Burt’s Bees was originally a lip balm, candle and honey company that grew into a leader in natural health and beauty products. So, naturally, their lip products are quite high on the AMAZING scale. From one plain lip balm, there are now 4 principle options in a variety of colours!  Tinted lip balmsLip ShimmersLip Shine, and Lip Gloss .   Where is a girl to start?  The Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmer is a must for my on-the-go makeup bag. With the protection of the balm, a hint of colour and a touch of shimmer- great for a mid afternoon Pick-Me-Up!

Burt’s Bees made a promise, “Earth friendly natural personal care for the Greater Good.”

And they’re keeping it!!!

10 percent offAs 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!

 

Breanne Fultz Spa Boutique

 

The Great Stretch Mark Menace

No Comments »

Thursday February 21st, 2013

Worried About Stretch Marks?

How Get Rid of Stretch Marks?

No topic inspires greater debate then the Great Stretch Mark Menace. Sometimes, I think people are talking about a giant radioactive monster or alien invaders… Can they be stopped? Long snaky things in pink, white and purple. They’re climbing all over me… They’re EVERYWHERE!

What are Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are, essentially, the development of scars from the inside out. As you experience rapid weight changes or growth or hormonal changes, your skin is stretched to compensate. This damages the connective tissues of your dermis. There is also a huge genetic component to stretch marks. Some people are simply more inclined to develop them than others.

There are a wide variety of products available for preventing and treating stretch marks with conflicting research behind practically all of them. One of the biggest reasons that the research disagrees is that treatment is really going to vary from person to person. The best thing you can do is to speak to your esthetician. She can give you a complete assessment and treatment plan. In the meantime, there are lots of easy ways to prevent stretch marks and to minimize their appearance.

Of course, where are you most likely to have rapid weight gain and hormonal shifts? Yup, during pregnancy. Mamas-to-be are the most common group associated with stretch marks. However, they’re also extremely common during puberty. As you experience growth spurts, the sudden change can cause those twisting lines. The numbers range, but various studies state 70 – 90% of people will experience stretch marks!

Preventing Stretch Marks

Moisturize! Moisturizing will help to increase the strength and flexibility of your skin. If you`re pregnant, you should avoid any moisturizers with super concentrated botanical or essential oils. The ingredient our aesthetics team recommends is Shea butter, particularly Zona Extra Virgin Organic Shea Butter Unsented.

I know you’ve heard it before, but you’ve really got to exercise, eat properly, and water. Keeping your body healthy increases the effectiveness of any skin care regimen, especially when you`re dealing with a deeper issue, such as stretch marks. Plus, you’re really going to feel great.Moor Spa Skin Balm (50 ml)DOCTOR BABOR BIOGEN CELLULAR Ultimate Repair Forming Body Cream (200 ml)Eminence Fire Thorn Treatment (2.0)

As for stretch mark creams, they really need to be used on fresh stretch marks (when they still appear as pink or purple streaks). They are designed to minimize the appearance of your stretch marks, however once they have set in your skin, they become very difficult to remove. Two creams that our clients have found effective at minimizing their stretch marks are:

Moor Spa Skin Balm Multipurpose and soothing salve, in addition to stretch marks, it can also be used on very dry/damaged skin, burns, bruising, cuts and insect bites.

Babor Biogen Cellular Ultimate Repair Forming Body Cream Contains a highly concentrated active ingredient extracted from the mimosa tree.

Eminence Fire Thorn Treatment Ultra rich moisture treatment with Fire Thorn, Corn Germ and Grape Seed oils. Used as a facial moisturizer and to prevent stretch marks.

If you really want to be rid of stretch marks, you can always try radio frequency or laser treatments. There are tons of options when it comes to the more radical treatments. Results depend greatly on the age of the stretch marks, overall health of the client, and genetics.

10 percent offAs 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!

 

Breanne Fultz Spa Boutique

GM Collin, A Superior Level of Skin Improvement.

No Comments »

Wednesday February 20th, 2013

Great Skin Girl Game FaceWith the Academy Awards just around the corner (Sunday Feb 24th!), all the A-List Stars are getting their “Game Face” on. Masks, massages and makeup are the order of the day! Personally, I think they’ve got the right idea. Who doesn’t need a mid-winter pick me up?

My pick for Best Oscar Winning Skin? GM Collin.

With all of their ingredients derived from natural plant and marine extracts, it’s no surprise the GM Collin Skincare line is filled with award winning products. Plus! For the 9th consecutive year, they are sponsoring an elegant beauty suite at the chic L’ermitage Hotel in Beverly Hills.  With a full spa in the hotel, it’s serious A-List pampering.

Here are just a couple of the Amazing Products the stars will be given this awards season:

GM Collin Academy Award Skin Care

GM Collin Lip “Plumping” Complex: Rose (7.5g) 
Want that perfect pout? This plumper contains dehyradted collagen and hyaluronic acid spheres that increase natural moisture for results that look like lip injections, with no needles or pain!

GM Collin Instant Radiance Anti-Aging Eye Patch (5 pairs)
A 20 minute treatment that actively reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness and fatigue. Leaves your eyes feeling revitalized.

GM Collin Hydramucine Optimal Cream: Creme (50ml)
An extremely rich, velvety crème, packed with vegetal microspheres forms micro water reservoirs. This leaves your skin feeling hydrated, supple and soothed.

GM Collin Daily Ceramide Comfort: Ceramide Confort 
A hyper nourishing skin care supplement, capsule contains Ceramide and essential lipid complexes to provide you with instant, incredible comfort, a silky smooth skin and protects against environmental elements.

Celebrate Awards Season! 15% off all our GM Collin products!
For the next 3 days, use code: 15OFFGM to receive your discount!

*Offer expires Friday February 22, 2012 at 11:59 PM PST. This promotion cannot be combined with any other promotion. Cannot be applied to previous order. Offer valid while quantities last.

10 percent offAs 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!

  Breanne Fultz Spa Boutique

Making It Off – Adventures in Makeup Remover

No Comments »

Monday February 18th, 2013

Smokey Eyes

Up until I was 22, I slept in my makeup. Coming home late (or sometimes wearing it to bed on purpose) left my sheets, pillow, and duvet in a rainbow of smudges.

Then, along came Halloween. A bad reaction to dime-store eyeliner practically glued my eyes shut. Those Rocky Horror party plans? Turned into a run to the Emergency Room. After a 20 minute lecture from a not-so sympathetic doctor, (echoed by my boyfriend in the car) I accepted the truth: I need to take proper care of my eyes. Gone were the days of dime-store liner, $2 shadow and glitter mascara. Instead, I find myself triple checking labels for artificial colourants or perfumes.

 Eminence Herbal Eye Makeup RemoverThe biggest thing that will set my eyes off, even using great make up, is leaving it on too long. Those “All-Day” or “24 Hour Last” products are great- but by the time I get home, I’ve already been in them for 12 hours and my eyes start to feel tired. Instead of waiting until right before bed, I do a quick makeup removal when I’m washing up to start supper. With my sensitive eyes, I really love Eminence Herbal Eye Makeup Remover (5.07oz). Soothing, gentle AND takes of regular mascara! Not suitable for water-proof mascara or other waterproof products.

Esthetician Recommends

If you’re a regular waterproof mascara wearer, I would go with something a little more directed, such as Decleor Aroma Cleanse Eye Make-Up Remover (150ml). Great for people with sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers, it takes off waterproof mascara really nicely. As it is an oil/water based cleanser, you do have to shake it before using.

When it comes to the rest of your makeup, it really depends on your skin type and what you’re looking for in a cleanser. If you have sensitive skin, our estheticians recommend GM Collin Sensiderm Cleansing Milk: Lait Nettoyant (200ml). It has a neutral pH which leaves your skin feeling supple, clean, and soothed. The active ingredients work to eliminate skin impurities and prevent dryness.

For me, there’s still a fair bit of that lazy 22 year old and I love products that do as many things as possible, such as the 3-in-1  Laboratoire Dr Renaud HydraPure Make-Up Removing, Cleansing and Toning Water.

The one product I really wish my lazy 22 year old self had known? Bodyography Mineral Makeup FACE IT Cleansing and Soothing Wipes (50 count). Super easy to use, you just wipe it all off and toss. It even does that notorious waterproof mascara! Superfast, your skin is left cleansed, softened and protected. A must for the lazy makeup junkie. They leave no excuse for waking up with raccoon eyes.

10 percent offAs 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!

  Breanne Fultz Spa Boutique
Blog Widget by LinkWithin