Monday, April 29, 2013

SPRING TRANSITIONING TIPS



In most parts of the States, spring has been filled with erratic weather; cold and snow in some regions or unseasonably warm weather in others, confusing many in this on-again off-again dance with the calendar and seasons.  I’m from the upper Midwest, and the “spring green” is finally showing in all its sweet glory, but later this week, a cold pattern is supposed to return.  And while the calendar indicates it's spring, the temperatures haven't conformed.  I watch and listen for the signs of nature that reassure me that spring has in fact has arrived; I just need to be a bit more patient!   As seasons change and transition from one to another, these changes impact virtually every aspect of our lives.  We need to be mindful of the need to change and adapt as well. 

Following are some helpful tips I’ve developed that will help you transition from our defiant winter type temperatures into spring and even summer.  Enjoy the tips and all that this remarkable season has to offer.    
  • Change your skin care and body care regimen and products.  Go with lighter formulations.  With more humidity in the air, you might be able to forgo using a serum or booster, plus heavier-weight moisturizers, and just go with a medium-weight moisturizer.  Consider exfoliating less and reducing the intensity of your cleansing regimen.  If the change is too drastic, your skin will react; so, pay attention to what your skin might be telling you to do or not to do.
  • Consider using chilled face toners or an essential oil-based spritzer to refresh the face and neck areas throughout the day, especially as temperatures heat up and humidity increases.
  • Change the intensity of your fragrance.  Go with lighter formulations, such as florals or greens, versus woods, ambers, musk, etc.  Remember, as temperatures warm up and humidity levels increase, so too will your body heat, intensifying the fragrance, which could make it too cloying.
  • Continue using products with a sunscreen/SPF rating to protect the skin from UVA/UVB rays.  If uncertain, consult a dermatologist.
  • Both the weight of clothing fabric and color palettes should changeover from weightier-fabric materials with darker colors, to lighter-weight fabrics (e.g. cotton, silk, natural fiber blends, etc.) that are more neutral or pastel; lighter weight fabrics and colors also keep the skin cooler, naturally.
  • When in doubt, look to nature for cues on what to do.  For example, during the day when the sun’s rays are their strongest, most birds and other creatures have the good sense to seek shade and avoid rigorous activity.  Take a cue from them, slow down and stay cooler.  Animals also begin shedding their winter “coats” to prepare for the warmer temperatures.
  • What may have worked during the fall and winter, might not necessarily work in the spring and the lead-up to summer.
  •  Lighten up on the types of foods you consume and continue drinking plenty of water to maintain a healthy digestive and circulatory system.
  • Don’t forget to open those windows and let the balmy breezes and fresher air come indoor and envelope you.
  • Take the time to notice nature’s rebirth. 

Springtime is a time for renewal in purpose of self.  It is part of the cycle of life.  Enjoy it.  Celebrate it. 

That’s it for this edition.  Until the next one, remember to take care of yourself and those you love.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Photo credit from www.natureofthingsphotography.com; Morton Arboretum, Lisle, IL.)

N.B.  Google’s blog platform is incompatible with my Mac OS X and Firefox browser latest software versions, which is why some web links appear in different colors and why when attempting to have embedded images their sizing is consistent and/or can’t be sized. 

Friday, April 19, 2013

EARTH MATTERS



Since 1970, Earth Day has been observed every April 22nd as a way to remind individuals about becoming better caregivers of planet earth and its natural resources.  And since 2007 on the last Saturday of March, Earth Hour has occurred around the world from 8:30pm to 9:30pm, where eco conscious individuals turn off all lights and electrical appliances to emphasize the dwindling natural resources of the planet.  Somewhere along the way, the month of April became designated as Earth Month to coincide with Earth Day.

While this all of this is commendable, individuals shouldn’t wait for one hour, one day, or even one month a year to be reminded of their stewardship for planet earth.  It begins as an ethic that is taught by parents to their children and cultivated throughout their years of maturation.  Every hour is Earth Hour.  Every day is Earth Day.  Every month is Earth Month.

Part of this awareness is the need to consider using personal care and home care products that aren’t toxic and don’t pollute the earth; this also includes the manufacturing process in reducing CO2 emissions and one’s CO2 footprint; it also includes recycling, reusing and repurposing materials and consuming only what’s needed to avoid waste.  Taking these small steps may initially seem a bit of an inconvenience, but eventually, they become second nature and automatic.

~ FOR FACE & BODY ~

NATUROPATHICA**
Age Defense Skin Care Regimen Kit ~ Part of a collection, this all natural and ECOCERT certified skin renewal kit targets minimizing the visible signs of aging with restorative and revitalization products.  The Age Defense Skin Care Kit is ideal for travel, and includes products paired for morning
and evening skincare regimens that are formulated to work synergistically to maximize their effectiveness. Each regimen included a cleansing product and a restorative product.  Whether I used the products in the morning or evening, the overall experience was exceptional, and I found all products to be gentle and non-irritating; after using them, my skin’s texture was firmer and definitely looked healthier.  Cleansing products thoroughly cleansed, while leaving a veil of hydration; the restorative products were quickly absorbed and didn’t leave any tacky residue; throughout the entire day, hydration levels were maintained; restorative products seemed to have built-in sensors and knew exactly how much hydration was needed in those areas that were drier or normal.  The product’s aromas were also calming, making them aromatherapeutic. 

For the morning regimen, there’s Oat Facial Polish and Vitamin C Revitalizing Complex.  Some of the key ingredients in the Oat Facial Polish included aloe vera, sunflower seed oil, oat protein, jojoba beads, sesame seed oil, lavender flower oil, rose flower oil, ylang ylang flower oil, wheat germ oil, rosemary leaf extract, oat protein and oat beta glucan extract.  Some of the key ingredients in the Vitamin C Revitalizing Complex included Vitamins A, C and E, kudzu extract, algae extract, sunflower seed oil, aloe vera, rose flower water, rose flower oil, rose bud extract, wheat germ oil, shea butter, blood orange peel oil, linden flower extract, rosemary leaf extract and superoxide dismutase (enzyme and antioxidant).  For the evening regimen, there’s Sweet Lupine Cleansing Cream and Plant Stem Cell Serum.  Some of the key ingredients for the Sweet Lupine Cleansing Cream included lupine protein (regenerative properties), aloe vera, sunflower seed oil, ylang ylang flower oil, chamomile flower extract, rose flower oil, frankincense resin extract, rosemary leaf extract and wild mango butter.  Some of the key ingredients for the Plant Stem Cell Serum included Echinacea stem cell (collagen synthesis), butterfly bush stem cell (healing and restoration), Helichrysium (anti-inflammatory), sunflower seed oil, rosehip seed oil, acai pulp oil, pomegranate seed extract, elder flower extract, geranium flower leaf oil, Roman chamomile flower oil, rosemary leaf extract and neroli flower oil.  In addition to the products being ECOCERT certified, between ninety and one hundred percent of the ingredients are natural in origin with portions also being organically derived. http://www.naturopathica.com/

NATURALLY FRESH
Mineral Salt Deodorant, Spray Mist Body Deodorant and MoistStic Natural Lip Protection ~
For those that are trying to simplify their lives by using natural and non-toxic personal care products, Naturally Fresh offers to different forms for your deodorant needs.  The Mineral Salt Deodorant comes in a handy roll-on; I tried the Lavender scented one.  The product provided only medium coverage from odor, was non-irritating, non-greasy and non-sticky; I enjoyed that it didn’t leave any
white product residue and was hypoallergenic and free of allergens and phthalate; some of the key ingredients included natural mineral salt, chamomile extract and natural fragrance.  The Spray Mist Body Deodorant provided greater protection against odor; I tried the Ocean Breeze fragrance, which is a fresh aroma; this is the spray mist version of their roll-on; also didn’t leave any white residue; mist was fine and didn’t drip.  Both formulations are widely recommended by dermatologists, allergists and oncologists because of their gentleness and formulations that haven’t any harmful or toxic ingredients.   The MoistStic was a wonderful lip balm formulated with natural ingredients like tea tree oil, Vitamin E, coconut oil and peppermint oil; it was soothing and kept the lip area hydrated; product when on easily and without any drag.  http://www.naturallyfreshdeodorantcrystal.com/

~ AROUND THE HOME ~

FRESH WAVE*
Crystal Gel Design Collection ~
The Fresh Wave line of products has always delivered natural, safe and non-toxic solutions to eliminating and neutralizing stubborn odors wherever they occur.  A mainstay of the line has been its
effective Crystal Gel formulation that lasts up to ninety days, helping to deodorize any room where the container is placed.  Addressing the requests of their loyal customer base, Fresh Wave is now offering a decorative accented container that fits in with any décor.  The decorative container is frosted with a patterned silver cutout lid, which allows for the Crystal Gel contents to circulate and neutralize any unpleasant odors; refillable.  The effective and powerful active ingredients include natural extracts of lime, pine needle, aniseed, clove and cedarwood, and provide continuous odor elimination; the aroma is also pleasant and non-irritating.  http://www.freshwaveworks.com/ 



GRABGREEN*

3-in-1 Laundry Detergent, Lavender and Vanilla ~GrabGreen is another company offering safe and effective products for around the home
chores.  All products are formulated with naturally-derived ingredients, are non-toxic and free of dyes, synthetic additives, NPEs (nonylphenol ethoxylates), phosphates and chlorine; they’re also not tested on animals and are biodegradable.  The 3-in-1 Laundry Detergent comes in pre-measured concentrated pods that clean, remove stains, while maintaining softness and pliability of fabric.  The Lavender and Vanilla variety I tried left a fresh and clean aroma to my clothes and wasn’t at all irritating.  No matter which products I’ve tried over the years, I’ve never been disappointed with the results. http://www.grabgreenhome.com/




These products are ideal for your daily “green” routine.  If you’re not familiar with them, make sure to visit the websites to familiarize yourself with all of their offerings; products will be available either online, at spas and salons, or at select retail stores.

N.B. * Exhibitor at the 2013 International Home+Housewares Show in Chicago, which is the world’s largest trade show of its type.  http://www.housewares.org

N.B.** Exhibitor at the 2012 International Spa Association Conference (ISPA).  ISPA is the world’s pre-eminent and largest global organization for spa professionals.  http://www.experienceispa.com

~ MORE ECO FRIENDLY RESOURCES ~

Here’s a take on some of the eco-friendly member companies of the International Spa Association (ISPA) that walk the talk all year long.  According to Lynne McNees, President of ISPA, “The spa industry in general has a very sustainable focus already. Many ISPA members are growing their green product offerings as consumers demand more environmentally friendly products.”  A sampling of ISPA members offering earth-friendly products and practices include these following top brands: Sothys, Naturopathica, Melle Beauty, Dr. Spiller Pure Skincare Solutions, Clarins, jane iredale, Dermastart, Africology USA, Spa Revolutions, Mama Mio, One Love Organics, Teatulia Organic Teas, Kerstin Florian, OSEA, Ambre Blends and Spa Impressions.

~ GREEN REMINDERS ~
  • Don’t consume more than you plan on using.  
  • Donate excess goods to charitable organizations.
  • Plan your around-town travels to efficiently consume gas.
  • Don’t waste natural resources, whether it’s inside or outside of your home.
  • Recycle, repurpose and reuse.
  • Stop using disposable diapers and switch to cotton diapers.
  • Stop using all disposable containers and switch to ones made with natural or reusable material.
  • Use cloth or reusable bags for your shopping needs.
  • Support local small businesses, whatever the commodity.
  • Avoid using toxic cleaning products for your household chores.
  • Become informed about eco-issues, choices and options by consulting multiple sources.
  • Research and familiarize yourself with
  • §  companies that have a commitment to sustainability related issues. 
  • §  companies that are allied with non-profit groups engaged in environmental related projects. 
  • §  charitable organizations that are committed to sustainability related issues.
  • §  local restaurants, or hotels and resorts that have a commitment to sustainability related issues.
Taking small steps leads to bigger ones ~

That’s it for this edition.  Until the next one, remember to take care of yourself and those you love. And, remember to take care of your home, the earth!

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  Her social media outreach includes LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Red Room and Cision Seek or Shout.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED
(Introductory photo credit from spaceedge.com.  All other photo credits as represented from the specific brand.)

N.B.  Google’s blog platform is incompatible with my Mac OS X and Firefox browser latest software versions, which is why some web links appear in different colors and why when attempting to embed images, the sizing is consistent and/or can’t be sized. 

Friday, April 12, 2013

LUXE AT HOME




lux - u - ry  (luhg-zhuh-ree)  noun  [from Latin, luxus and its derivative luxuria, excess, indulgence “Luxury” signifies far more than the mere enjoyment of expensive things --it implies an excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures…”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Fashion icon Coco Chanel often mused about the meaning of luxury…some of her musings dictated that “Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury”… and that “Luxury is a necessity where necessity ends.”  For me, however, luxury is something that elevates my senses with extraordinary feelings that totally depart from the norm.  Luxury also transports me to a different space and momentarily, I’m removed from my day-to-day routine.  That departure refocuses my energies and thought process, and I’m able to reclaim myself by the sensory-driven diversion.

For skincare, body care and related products, luxury is also how the product feels to the touch, and includes its aroma; how it transforms my skin’s texture after using it; how it improves the overall level of hydration and maintains that level throughout the day; and, how it enhances how I feel after using it.  All of these attributes are sensory-driven and part of that experience.  My recent article, “SPA AT HOME”, also highlighted the sensory-driven aspect as a viable component to an experience. 

Following are some of those products I had the pleasure of trying, which qualify as luxurious based on my definition.  During the course of using them, however, what was lacking were the hands of a highly skilled and experienced massage therapist, esthetician or cosmetologist as part of a spa treatment utilizing these various products as part of the treatment; but, I digress.  Enjoy my takes on these products, and don’t forget to take some time for yourself, whether that’s at home or at a spa.

~ FACE & BODY ~

Darphin Paris ~ Vitalskin Anti-Fatigue Dynamizing Serum and Vitalskin Replumping Energic Emulsion*
I loved each product’s texture and how it felt to the touch…rich, silky and luxurious.  Application was smooth and without any drag; products absorbed quickly and left a firmer and more hydrated texture.  Skin looked healthier, toned and more vibrant; my hydration levels were maintained throughout the day.  The texture of myskin was also evened out and no dry patches were felt; the hydration properties seemed to have sensors to know where to be distributed and adjusted to compensate for an uneven skintone.  The aromas were fresh and uplifting.  Some of the key ingredients included Mitostime algae extract, Vitamins C and E, Noni fruit extract and walnut extract, which are rich in Omega fatty acids; Noni is also prized in Southeast Asia because of its beneficial properties for skin health.  I loved the high performance of both products, especially when used together for maximum synergy, which also intensified the product’s efficacy.  http://www.darphin.com

Sothys Paris ~ Hydra-Nourishing Body Lotion and Lemon and Petitgrain Nourishing Body Elixir*
Both of these products were an exceptional treat post-shower.  My skin quickly absorbed the Lotion, without leaving any tacky residue and dissipating dryness; texture of the skin was firm and refined.  After an application of the Lotion, I’d spray the Elixir after a thorough application of the Lotion to intensify the hydration effects.  While both products had a lovely aroma, the Elixir’s was phenomenal.  Key ingredients for the Lotion included corn germ oil, sweet almond protein, algae extract, shea butter and Vitamin E.  Key ingredients for the Elixir included sunflower seed oil, soybean oil and Vitamin E.  When products were used together, maximum synergy was achieved and product efficacy was attained.

~ TRESSES ~

Phyto Paris ~ Volumizing Shampoo Fine Hair, Express Conditioner and Volumizing Spray
I wasn’t blessed with a head of thick luscious hair, but after using both the Shampoo and Conditioner, my hair felt richer and fuller; the consistency of product was rich and dense, without weighing the hair down.  Not onlywas their more volume after using these products, but my hair also had a remarkable strength and vibrancy to it, including a healthy luster.  My hair definitely was healthier and revitalized, something not appreciated until after using high quality products like these, compared to what I had previously been using.  Key ingredients in the Shampoo included Chitin extract from crustacean shells, red algae extract, yarrow, Guarana and tormentil root.  Key ingredients in the Conditioner included Gleditsia extract from the Honeylocust plant, red algae extract and elderflower extract. The Spray held the style, without weighing down the hair or leaving a tacky residue.  Key ingredients for the Spray included beetroot alcohol, nasturtium extract and wheat protein extract.  All products had a subtle, yet lovely aroma and were enjoyable to use.  http://www.phyto-usa.com
  
~ FINISHING TOUCHES ~

Caron Paris ~ La Poudre Peau Fine and Bellodgia Eau De Parfum
This iconic luxury brand has been revered and coveted by women worldwide since its inception in 1903.  It launched its initial luxury powder in that year to pair with its first fragrance (Tabac Blond).  It wouldn’t be until 1935 that Caron Paris began to subtly add the luxurious scent of distilled Bulgarian Rose to its exquisite powders.  La Poudre Peau Fine is an extravagant way to finish the face with delicate loose powder; the Poudre also includes the signature Caron Puff; its silken touch glides across the skin, leaving a hint of transparent finish; throughout the day, I didn’t have to bother with any touch-up; there wasn’t any shine in the “T” zone, which is often problematic when wearing makeup.  Key ingredients included Vitamins A and E, powdered silk, distilled Bulgarian Rose, camellia oil, antioxidants and kaolin.  I chose the Transparent “color”, which provided a natural and light coverage. This luxurious and delicate powder is ideal for all skin types, including those with skin sensitivities.  The Poudre comes in a beautiful signature gold metallic case with the Caron classic dot pattern on its lid.  Topping off this finishing touch was a spritz of one my treasured fragrances, Bellodgia.  Caron introduced this luxury fragrance in 1927.  I first fell in love with this gorgeous fragrance in the late sixties when I started college; a small sample bottle (yes, a bottle!) was tucked in a welcome box distributed at registration; I felt so elegant and grown-up every time I wore it, or just breathed in its intoxicating aroma upon opening the bottle.  The extraordinary top notes include carnation and rose; middle notes, jasmine, violet and muguet; and, base notes, musk, clove, vanilla and sandalwood.  The dry-down is subtle and gradual, although the top and middle notes delicately remain.  One spritz easily transported me back to my youth by surrounding me with the exquisite aromatic mélange of floral blossoms.  http://www.parfumscaron.com

29 Cosmetics ~ Grape Seed Age-Protecting Preserves First Crush Lip Scrub, Preserves Wine Blot Lip Treatment SPF20 and Preserves Hint of Honey Lip Treatment
Founded by Lydia Mondavi (yes, that Mondavi, vino royalty!), all of the products in this luxurious line are formulated with anti-aging ingredients that treat and nurture the skin.  These three products complement each other and to maximize their efficacy.  Step one is using the First Crush Lip Scrub to delicately and effectively exfoliate and remove dead cells from the lips; imparts an incredibly smoothed and hydrated surface with its multi-hydrating oil complex.  Key ingredients included apricot seed powder, sweet almond oil, grape seed oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, Vitamin E and shea butter.  Step two is using the Wine Blot Lip Treatment SPF 20 after thoroughly exfoliating.  What’s great about the Wine Blot Lip Treatment is that it’s also a sunscreen and can stand alone as a lip balm.  It also drenches the delicate tissue with exceptional hydration.  Key ingredients include castor seed oil and grape seed oil.  Step three is using the Hint of Honey Lip Treatment and pairs beautifully on top of the Wine Blot Lip Treatment and also drenches the delicate tissue with exceptional hydration.  While it can easily be worn alone for a delicate hint of shimmery color, Hint of Honey Lip Treatment maximizes the hydration properties of the Wine Blot Lip Treatment when applied over it.  Key ingredients included castor seed oil and grape seed oil.  http://www.29cosmetics.com

While definitions of what constitutes luxury might differ from mine, including the experience and product preferences, what matters most is how one feels about their particular experience and the results they may gain from using their preferred products to improve both their skin and their state of being.

I encourage you to visit each product’s website and become familiar with the product lines, and if you’re active on Facebook and/or Twitter, don’t forget to also “like” or “follow” these lines.  Product availability may be limited to specialty retail boutiques, select salons and spas, or online. 

Lastly, try to set some time aside each day, or at least each week, to focus to reclaim the "you" that may have become lost in the frenzy of your crazy-busy life.  Doing so isn’t hedonistic, but an investment in yourself and optimal restoration and renewal.  No one deserves this special time more than you. 

That’s it for this edition.  Until the next one, remember to take care of yourself and those you love.

(N.B. * denotes my initial experience with these exceptional products at the 2012 International Spa Association Conference (ISPA).  ISPA is the world’s pre-eminent and largest global organization for spa professionals.  Attendees at the Conference had opportunities to experience various full-service spa treatments in the Relaxation Room, where exhibitors featured top tier products in representative spa treatments.  Licensed spa professionals administered all treatments.)

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Introductory photo credit and header from www3.fitnyc.edu, The Museum at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology); all other photo credits as represented from the specific brand.)

N.B.  Google’s blog platform is incompatible with my Mac OS X and Firefox browser latest software versions, which is why some web links appear in different colors and why when attempting to have embedded images their sizing is consistent and/or can’t be sized.