SKIN TLC

No matter the season, tending to your body’s skin with routine care is important.  After all, skin is your body’s largest organ and takes up approximately twenty square feet of surface.  Skin does a body good, by protecting everything that’s under its mantle, so be extra careful taking care of the mantle.  Following are a few tips from outside experts on ways to tend to your body’s skin and its needs.

~ Ole Henriksen, Skincare Guru ~

“You should exfoliate before going out in the sun to rev up circulation, facilitating the elimination of toxins or impurities that may be trapped in the skin. In addition to detoxification, exfoliation leaves the skin luminous, smooth and soft in texture, and it removes any excess dead skin, allowing for better absorption and easier application of sunscreen or lotion.”   http://www.epsomsaltcouncil.org/news/articles/summer_skin_care_tips.php

Shower Smoothie DIY by Ole Henriksen: 

4 oz. of Epsom salt; 4 oz. coffee grounds; 1 T eucalyptus oil; and, enough sesame oil to form a smooth paste.  Mix the Epsom salt and coffee grounds in a medium bowl, then add the oils and stir thoroughly until you have a smooth, but not runny paste.  Get in the shower, get wet and turn off the water. Use the entire palm of each hand to vigorously scrub your body for several minutes, from your neck to your feet.

Afterward, just rinse and glow. Your skin will feel smooth, and you’ll notice an immediate lifting and constricting of the skin.

~ Marsha Bialo, Award-Winning Celebrity Manicurist ~

This award-winning celebrity manicurist recommends bi-weekly pedicures to ease aches and pains, reduce swelling and disinfect blisters or lesions.  http://www.epsomsaltcouncil.org/news/articles/experts_share_summer_beauty_tips.php

At-Home Pedicure Restorer: 

Give your feet a comfortable place to rest by folding a bath towel and positioning it at the bottom of a bucket.  Mix half a cup of Epsom salt with some warm, soapy water to soften skin and calluses and dry out the bacteria from blisters.  Remove old polish with a cotton pad soaked with nail polish remover, cut nails straight across with clippers then file them square to remove sharp edges.  Soak for five minutes, dip a file into the water and use it to smooth your heels, the balls of your feet and the outer edges of your pinkie toes.  Add a calcium nail fortifier and ridge filling base coat, and finish off with a topcoat.

~ Julie Ricevuto, YouBeauty Expert ~

Lemon Poppy Seed Cookie Scrub ~ 

The natural vitamin C in highly acidic lemons helps rapidly turn over and brighten skin cells. Plus, the energizing citrus fruit helps deodorize and clean skin. This blend plays off a popular muffin recipe, with the added gentle exfoliation benefit of tiny poppy seeds.  You’ll need 4 lemons, 1 tablespoon poppy seeds, 1-cup sugar, 1-teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ cup cornmeal, and ½ cup coconut oil.  Zest the lemons, then leave the zest to dry for one to two hours. (If you don’t have a zester, remove the lemon peel with a vegetable peeler and then mince the peel with a knife.) In a bowl, mix poppy seeds, sugar, cornmeal, vanilla and lemon zest. Pour the oil over the ingredients and mix to combine. Store in a sealed jar for up to three months.

~ In Closing ~

Sometimes the simplest things, like Epsom salt, which have been a mainstay in homes for many years continues to be a natural wonder.  For years, people would add generous amounts to their bath water.  Not only did the mineral salts soften the water, but it also alleviated stiff and sore muscles.  Epsom salt is also great for soothing irritated skin, as a hair volumizer, and as an exfoliator.  Don’t overlook your kitchen and cupboard for other natural and simple remedies for minor skin issues.  Take time to take care of your skin.

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 the 1990s, she authored an extensive "Glossary of Spa Terminologies" and holds two copyright registrations.  Consumer and trade publications have also interviewed her as an expert.  She also conducted an extensive nationally broadcasted interview tour on aspects of creating an at-home spa, interior design, music, stress and time management.  Her work has been published extensively in print and digital in both consumer and trade publications.  In addition to writing, reviewing and being interviewed as an expert, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also served on the International Advisory Board for the former EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness; the Advisory Board was comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also served as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  Her social media outreach includes Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Tripatini.  Be sure to read her food, wine and culinary digital magazine, TERRY’S SECOND HELPINGS.  Please note that the “Comment Section” has been disabled.  Don’t forget to “Like” her Facebook Page, “Terry’s Second Helpings”.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com, or terry.herman@gmail.com.

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(Introductory and closing photo credits by Epsom Salt Council; middle photo credit by Julie Ricevuto.)

YASOU NATURAL SKIN CARE ~ SKIN FOOD

~ ABOUT THE BRAND ~

Theodora Ntovas

Combining her Greek heritage with a passion for a results-driven luxurious organic skincare line, Theodora Ntovas created YASOU Natural Skin Care, “Greek-Inspired Natural Skin”.  In Greek, “Yasou” is a familiar greeting, translated to mean “to your health”.  We’re familiar with the many health benefits of a balanced and healthy diet, which is part of the Greek diet, integral to the Mediterranean Diet; it’s no different when it comes to the health benefits of YASOU Natural Skin Care…it’s like the Mediterranean Diet, but for your face and body!

Although Theodora Ntovas grew up in Chicago, part of her childhood was spent living in Greece, where she immersed herself with family, culture, and heritage.  As an adult, these experiences were transformative.  She’d regularly go to the farmer’s markets in the picturesque village of Archia Feneos (Peloponnese region near Corinth).  There, she’d marvel at nature’s bounty and especially its local organic produce, which included olive oil, flower and plant extracts, and beeswax.  She also observed that the local women, who generally made their own skincare products from these ingredients, all had a youthful vibrancy to their skin’s appearance, along with a healthy and youthful glow to their skin.

These combined experiences motivated her passion and she began her quest to learn as much as possible about cosmetic science, aromatherapy, and natural skincare solutions.  She’d eventually partner with noted chemist and formulator Nestor Tomasi, and the brand YASOU was borne.

At the heart of each product's formulation is the proprietary Calityl-O Complex, which delivers an infusion of certified organic extra virgin olive oil, and Vitamins A and E.  These powerful natural anti-oxidants aid in anti-aging properties, such as diminishing inflammation, providing an effective barrier against free radicals, and delivering nourishing and restorative nutrients to the skin’s mantle.  Product ingredients are certified organic and natural, with formulations that target specific skincare related aspects, while delivering restorative and therapeutic properties.

~ THE PRODUCT EXPERIENCE ~

Natural Cellular Day Cream and Natural Cell Renewal Night Cream ~ To me, both the Day Cream and Night Cream are definitely YASOU’s “dynamic duo”.  Both Creams had a luxurious feel to them; the consistency was concentrated, so very little was needed to adequately hydrate the skin; product was quickly absorbed and didn’t leave any residue; hydration levels were maintained throughout the day and night.  Once applied, I immediately noticed luminosity to my skin after applying both products; it was a healthy and revitalized glow.  I also noticed that fine lines and wrinkles were diminished.  Skin tone also appeared more even; my faint hyperpigmentation on my cheeks and around my mouth area also were minimized.  Key ingredients for the Day Cream include lemon, orange, apple, and cucumber extracts, green tea, Vitamins E and C, certified organic extra virgin olive oil, and grape seed extract.  Key ingredients for the Night Cream include shea butter, aloe leaf juice, jojoba oil, Vitamin B, cucumber extract, Vitamin C, certified organic extra virgin olive oil, and Vitamin E.

Natural Body Cream ~ This rich luxurious Body Cream glides on easily, leaving the skin feeling silky; the product is absorbed quickly without leaving any greasy or tacky residue; hydration levels are maintained throughout the day.  Key ingredients include cypress, lavender, and mandarin essential oils, Vitamin E, caffeine, calendula, rosemary, honey, olive oil, shea butter, aloe, jojoba oil.

For more information on this beautiful new line, visit http://www.yasouskincare.com

~ IN CLOSING ~

Finding the best possible skincare solutions isn’t something that can be rushed.  Take the time to become friends with your skin…get to know its unique personality…find a skincare line that delivers on its promises and improves the overall quality of your skin.  Lastly, incorporate those effective products into your regular skincare regimen, and give special attention to changing products with the changing seasons. 

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 the 1990s, she authored an extensive "Glossary of Spa Terminologies" and holds two copyright registrations.  Consumer and trade publications have also interviewed her as an expert.  She also conducted an extensive nationally broadcasted interview tour on aspects of creating an at-home spa, interior design, music, stress and time management.  Her work has been published extensively in print and digital in both consumer and trade publications.  In addition to writing, reviewing and being interviewed as an expert, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also served on the International Advisory Board for the former EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness; the Advisory Board was comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also served as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  Her social media outreach includes Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Tripatini.  Be sure to read her food, wine and culinary digital magazine, TERRY’S SECOND HELPINGS.  Please note that the “Comment Section” has been disabled.  Don’t forget to “Like” her Facebook Page, “Terry’s Second Helpings”.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com, or terry.herman@gmail.com.

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(Photo credits as represented by the specific brand.)

PERFECT PAIRING ~ SKIN AUTHORITY & KOHLER WATERS SPA BURR RIDGE

~ The Spa ~

It’s been a few years since I reviewed this beautiful Spa, which is located approximately twenty miles southwest of downtown Chicago.  Kohler Waters Spa Burr Ridge is located in the tony suburb of Burr Ridge, IL.  Since opening in the spring of 2008, Kohler Waters Spa Burr Ridge remains a preferred day spa destination in the Chicago-area for locals and visitors.

The Spa is contiguous to the impressive Kohler Design Center.  It was ingenious to put the two together, since Kohler defines all-things water.  What better way to reaffirm this than to have a Design Center, which features all-things Kohler for kitchen and bath, and then combines it with a Spa that is another show piece for all-things water…which is Spa is all about!

Guests are encouraged to bring their bathing suits and allow at least forty minutes prior to their treatment time, so that they can immerse themselves in the Spa’s indulgent and impressive water sanctuary, the Circle of Tranquility.  This water feature has three self-guided sequential shower experiences, Envelop, Quench, and Deluge; each shower has different water flows and different temperature settings.  After these preparatory shower rituals, guests can then experience a 25-foot whirlpool area, which includes an exhilarating eight-foot waterfall, which provides invigorating hydro massage on stress points.  Guests can then take a bracing dip in the eight-foot cold plunge pool, followed by some downtime in either the dry sauna or steam area, or both.  The variability of hot to cold, cold to hot, is ideal to stimulate the circulatory system, which makes these water features unique to Kohler, which sets this Spa apart from others.  After the treatment therapy, a respite in the calming and restorative Lounge area awaits the guest.  For more information, visit http://www.kohlerwatersspaburrridge.com

~ The Treatment Experience ~ Skin Authority Dermaplaning Facial ~

Dermaplaning is a manual exfoliation technique where a specially trained esthetician uses a medical grade single blade implement, usually angled at forty-five degrees, followed by downward motions on small surface areas of the face.  The quick motion removes surface debris and fine facial hair, leaving the surface incredibly smooth.  Other benefits include the appearance of diminished fine lines and wrinkles, lessening of hyper-pigmentation, and improved luminosity; it also evens-out the skin’s surface, which enables more consistent absorption of topically applied products.  The esthetician is essentially shaving the epidermis.  I was fascinated with the non-irritating “scraping” sound the blade made as it deftly hit all of the areas on my face; it reminded me of the sound made when you use a thin, but firm piece of cardboard and run it quickly over your skin. 

My highly skilled esthetician, Shell, thoroughly explained all aspects of the treatment before, during, and after.  The treatment began with an application of hot towels to the entire face to relax and open up pores and prime the skin for the next steps.  Skin was then gently cleansed using the Skin Authority Age Defying Daily Wash; after the Daily Wash was removed, their professional grade Glycolic Peel followed.  After that was removed and the skin was thoroughly dry, the Dermaplaning sequence began, which took approximately forty-five minutes.  Once the Dermaplane sequence was completed, an application of Skin Authority’s VitaD Fortified Topical Elixir followed.  The grand finale to this extraordinary treatment experience was the application of Skin Authority’s signature SGF-4 (Skin Growth Factor) star products.  The science behind SGF is the utilization of natural skin proteins that restore elasticity and firmness, restores lost nutrients, plumps, lifts, smoothes surface texture, and improves circulation for a healthy glow.  Products used in this treatment experience based on the SGF-4 technology included Skin Authority’s Wrinkle Reversing Serum, Dramatic Eye Lift, and Moisturizing Lift Cream.

~ Taking Care of Business ~

The importance of Vitamin D, often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin”, is vital in helping bodies naturally metabolize this important vitamin for optimal regulation and absorption of calcium and phosphorus; these are also needed for healthy bones and teeth, and in fighting disease.  Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent, because a sufficient amount of this important vitamin is often difficult to obtain in northern climates, for example, where sun exposure is limited based on colder seasons; the application of sunscreens and sunblock further inhibits the body’s natural ability to absorb sunlight; further, certain foods that are rich in this vitamin offer some favorability, but diet and nutritional supplements alone may only provide minimal benefits.  Vitamin D is one of those vitamins where a person needs to be vigilant.

When it comes to Vitamin D for the skin, Skin Authority’s innovative VitaD Fortified Elixir has been the perfect antidote for concerns about Vitamin D deficiency.  I loved using this product; for daytime, I used it without any other product; for nighttime, I used it under my night cream.  My skin’s consistency was silky and luxurious; the Elixir was quickly absorbed, and its dry-technology eliminated any concerns about a greasy or tacky residue.  The Elixir delivered gentle and non-irritating hydration levels that were maintained throughout the day.  Best of all, my overall texture was evened-out, fine lines and wrinkles appeared diminished, and the skin felt firmer; my skin also had a healthy luminosity.  Key ingredients included Vitamins D2, D3, A, E, and K, aloe leaf extract, and mushroom extract.  The formulation is also free of parabens, AHAs, dyes, and added fragrances, and not tested on animals.  The perfect pairing to this amazing Elixir is Skin Authority’s VitaD Fortified Whole Food Spice Powder.  For additional information, visit http://www.skinauthority.com

~ In Closing ~

I was amazed at the transformation of my skin.  It was scrupulously clean, lifted, vibrant, hydrated, and definitely glowed compared to the lackluster appearance of my skin prior to this exceptional restorative treatment.  My only regret was that I didn’t have a “before and after” photo.

Investing one’s time with a highly trained and skilled certified esthetician is well worth the effort.  And experiencing a facial treatment, such as the Skin Authority Dermaplaning Facial, is one way to guarantee the optimal health of your skin.  Experiencing this restorative facial treatment when paired at a beautiful spa, such as Kohler Waters Spa Burr Ridge, adds to the sensory experiences both treatment and spa have to offer the guest.

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 the 1990s, she authored an extensive "Glossary of Spa Terminologies" and holds two copyright registrations.  Consumer and trade publications have also interviewed her as an expert.  She also conducted an extensive nationally broadcasted interview tour on aspects of creating an at-home spa, interior design, music, stress and time management.  Her work has been published extensively in print and digital in both consumer and trade publications.  In addition to writing, reviewing and being interviewed as an expert, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also served on the International Advisory Board for the former EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness; the Advisory Board was comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also served as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  Her social media outreach includes Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Tripatini.  Be sure to read her food, wine and culinary digital magazine, TERRY’S SECOND HELPINGS.  Please note that the “Comment Section” has been disabled.  Don’t forget to “Like” her Facebook Page, “Terry’s Second Helpings”.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com, or terry.herman@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED