LAKE GENEVA GO-AROUND

In late fall, I had another opportunity for a quick getaway to a favorite Midwestern destination of mine, Lake Geneva, WI.  My overnight stay was at the Abbey Resort & Avani Spa.  I finally had the opportunity to briefly check out the Grand Geneva Resort & WELL Spa; in all the years I’ve been visiting this area, I’ve never had the opportunity to check this resort out or its spa out.  At both spas, I’d also experience a treatment.  The evening brought a surprise dining experience at the fully restored Baker House.  Obviously with such a short amount of time in my schedule, I wasn’t able to fully take advantage of a special gathering of area journalists to explore the variety of activities, accommodations and eateries for singles, couples and families.  Of course, my hosts graciously extended a standing invitation for me to return to experience what I wasn’t able to experience this time around.  For me, the travel time from my home to this popular tourist destination is approximately two and one-half hours.  I’m already thinking about doing a return visit next spring. 

The allure of this destination may vary depending on what has drawn someone to its shores, but one thing is certain, each time a person returns, they discover new things about picturesque Lake Geneva and its beautiful Geneva Lake.  That newfound information always beckons their return!

An Historical Snapshot of The Newport of the West ~

“…The Lake Geneva area is unique for many reasons, including its incredible number of beautiful historic and contemporary mansions. The community began earning is nickname "The Newport of the West", almost from its official inception in 1836. The great Chicago fire brought increasing number of Chicagoans into the Lake Geneva area. Many had lost their homes and businesses in the fire and simply moved to Lake Geneva as a "temporary solution" while their homes and places of business were being rebuilt. Often, they elected to stay, lured by the expansive natural surroundings and solid job market that offered numerous farming and manufacturing opportunities. Others elected to stay, drawn by the new found quality of life they had discovered, and commute via rail to their businesses in Chicago. Over the years, many lovely homes, estates and cottages were built. Today, many of these homes still exist and can be seen along the Geneva Lake shoreline. The Lake Geneva area is unique for many reasons, including its incredible number of beautiful historic and contemporary mansions. The community began earning is nickname "The Newport of the West", almost from its official inception in 1836. The great Chicago fire brought increasing number of Chicagoans into the Lake Geneva area. Many had lost their homes and businesses in the fire and simply moved to Lake Geneva as a "temporary solution" while their homes and places of business were being rebuilt. Often, they elected to stay, lured by the expansive natural surroundings and solid job market that offered numerous farming and manufacturing opportunities. Others elected to stay, drawn by the new found quality of life they had discovered, and commute via rail to their businesses in Chicago. Over the years, many lovely homes, estates and cottages were built. Today, many of these homes still exist and can be seen along the Geneva Lake shoreline…”

My Brief Encounters ~

Abbey Resort & Avani Spa ~ A new addition to the Avani Spa’s impressive treatment menu is the Reflexology Treatment.  My therapist, Amanda, meticulously worked all of the major organ regions that run throughout my body, converging within the hands and feet.  One of the better such treatments I’ve received over the years.  It was both therapeutic and restorative.  My only disappointment was that lunch around the gorgeous Spa Pool was eerily quiet, because my timing was during the federal government mandate for all pool drains to be retrofitted for safety reasons.  http://www.theabbeyresort.com/

Grand Geneva Resort & WELL Spa ~ This resort was the former Playboy Club Mansion, which catered to golf and tennis, and the gawkers of the bunny-tail types.  The WELL Spa is housed in a separate building that also contains tennis, basketball and volleyball courts.  Although the walk from the main resort isn’t that great of a distance, I wouldn’t want to traipse from the lobby outdoor in frigid wintery weather to get from the resort to the WELL Spa.  Because my schedule was limited, I opted for the Signature Pedicure minus the color; Wendy, my technician, did a wonderful job of exfoliating, grooming and buffing; I also enjoyed the foot and leg massage.  http://www.grandgeneva.com

Baker House ~ A restored Victorian manor house that is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Baker House transports its guests to an era of fun and frivolity. Upon entering, period dressed staff greet guests and extend an invitation for them to select a vintage hat, which they’re encouraged to wear for the duration of their visit.  At sunset, all guests go to the picturesque front yard and after the bugler plays a flourish, a toast is made by all on the history of the manor house and the glorious setting sun amidst Geneva Lake as its backdrop.  Following the Sunset Toast, a tasting dinner of delicious cuisine was served on antique china followed by period costumed staff; guests were encouraged to sit in one of the restored rooms that harken to a bygone day where the stresses of life were inconsequential.  The food was as delicious as the visuals were tantalizing and unique experience.   

Before leaving, my group was given tours of the exquisitely decorated guest suites; each room was decorated differently with distinctive details reminiscent of the Victorian era.  http://www.bakerhouse1885.com

Additional accommodation suggestions include Bella Vista Suites http://www.bellavistasuites.com

Harbor Shores on Lake Geneva http://www.lodgingbythelake.com and Lake Lawn Resort http://www.lakelawnresort.com

Lake Geneva is closer than you think and is waiting to be discovered.  The destination offers an abundance of activities for singles, couples or families; it’s an ideal destination for friend’s getaway weekends, class reunions, meetings, etc.  Seasonal and year round activities include ziplining, hiking, boating, skiing, golf, themed lake cruises, antiquing, arts and crafts, wine and cheese tastings, guided historical tours, museums, special attractions and of course, dining to please every palate and pocket-book.  It’s also a preferred wedding destination, with close proximity for fly-in guests from either Chicago O’Hare International Airport, or Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport.  To discover more about this wonderful year round destination, visit Lake Geneva ~ It’s always been the place. http://www.lakegenevawi.com

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

(Opening photo credit from The Baker House website; all others as represented by 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. 

PRODUCT POTPOURRI

~ MORE PRODUCT REVIEWS FROM AN INDUSTRY INSIDER ~

 

It can be a daunting task for consumers and spa professionals to narrow the number of products to consider.  The savvy person always takes the time to perform due diligence, which can take on many forms, including perusing magazines, in-store product testing, sleuthing the product websites and social media pages, or even doing Internet searches to see what the chatter might be on a particular product.  I enjoyed testing this latest grouping of products and also hope you enjoy reading about them. 

Mineral Fusion Mineral Makeup ~ Mineral Fusion offers a range of natural mineral-based makeup products that are healthy for skin, while providing natural coverage that enhances; the company also offers a range of application tools, skin, body and hair care.  Their product line is all natural, not tested on animals, hypoallergenic, gluten-free, and also free of parabens, talc, artificial or synthetic ingredients, phthalates or sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).  Mineral Fusion is an environmentally conscious company that regularly practices manufacturing best practices for sustainability, as well as partnering with and supporting local and global charitable organizations.  I reviewed some of their makeup products, which included Loose Powder Foundation, Concealer Duo, Eye Shadow, Eye Pencil and Lip Gloss.  Both the Concealer Duo and Loose Powder Foundation were easy to apply and provided maximum matte coverage that remained throughout the day, which didn’t require any touch-up; the Eye Pencil went on smoothly and was easily smudged as an accent eyeliner; the Lip Gloss left my lips moist, while adding a subtle blush of color.  Whole Foods carries this line as one of their Premium Compliant personal care product lines.  http://www.mineralfusion.com

Penhaligon’s, London Perfumers since 1870 ~ When I was doing research on aromatherapy and perfume to prepare for a series of presentations on the subject matter, I became familiar with Penhaligon’s, the quintessential London Perfumer.  My first introduction to this company was through one of its celebrated books, “The Language of Flowers”, Penhaligon’s Scented Treasury of Verse and Prose.  I became fascinated with their fragrances, because through my research I learned that their formulations contained the finest and purest of essential oils, extracts and resins; formulas were maintained over the years, so that when a fragrance was re-introduced, its aromatic integrity remained as did the original version.  I had the pleasure of experiencing two of Penhaligon’s most popular fragrances and one of their most recent.  They included Gardenia (1976), Elisabethan Rose (1984) and Peoneve (2012).  Each fragrance remained true to its single-note name.  The dry-down of each note (top/head, middle/heart and bottom/base) remained subtle, without altering the integrity of top/head note.  http://www.penhaligons.com

Raw Skin Care Smoothing Serum ~ I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing other products in this beautiful organic skincare line.  I’ve come to appreciate using face oils for hydration and find them more effective than many creams or lotion.  The Smoothing Serum is an organic virgin cold-pressed Argan Oil from Morocco; it has three prestigious organic certifications, including the USDA, QAI and EU.  This potent serum is naturally rich in anti-oxidants and also contains vitamin E, Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids, squalene and polyphenols.  The consistency is luxurious and silky, applies effortlessly, and is quickly absorbed without leaving any greasy or tacky residue; it’s also non-irritating and hasn’t any aroma.  After using, my skin looked healthy, hydrated and vibrant.  After the first use, I noticed diminished fine lines and wrinkles in age-prone areas like the forehead, crow’s feet, under eye contour, nasal and marionette folds, etc.  Argan Oil has also been found to be beneficial in topically healing sunburn and acneic related. The product is only available at salons and spas that carry this prestigious organic skin care line as part of their treatment menu.  http://www.redcherrygroup.com

Toezies ~ If you’re like me, working out while wearing socks and athletic shoes is uncomfortable and limits flexibility.  Working out in bare feet isn’t always the answer, either, since depending on the surface area you’re using, you can slip, or stub the toes, or lose your balance.  When I first put on the “Sassy Stripe” design, finessing the cutouts over each toe felt awkward, but once they were on, I loved how the gripping heads kept me “sure footed”, allowing for freedom to flex my toes and use them to stabilize my balance.  While wearing them, not only didn't I slip, I also felt grounded.  The Toezies also felt like second-skin.  They were very comfortable to wear and definitely ideal for working out or walking around.  http://www.mytoezies.com

Vichy Laboratories LivActive Serum 10  ~ This anti-aging Serum has garnered international recognition by Marie Claire Magazine for its 2012 Prix d’Excellence Beauty Award, the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval and Allure Magazine Beauty Breakthrough.  High-performing ingredients include rhamnose (a regularly occurring plant sugar that contributes to skin rejuvenation), hyaluronic acid (aids in moisture retention, while improving levels of decreased collagen and elastin) and ceramides (to diminish signs of aging).  The Serum is concentrated and requires only a single dropper of product, applied twice daily.  Its consistency is silky and goes on smoothly, is quickly absorbed and doesn’t leave any greasy or tacky residue; there wasn’t any aroma.  While I used the product for three weeks, my fine lines were visibly softened; however, the texture of my skin felt slightly grainy on those areas prone to dryness.  http://www.vichyusa.com

 

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 credits as represented by 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. 

A PLACE TO DECOMPRESS AND RECLAIM YOURSELF

 ~ SPA EASTMAN ~

CANADA'S FIRST DESTINATION SPA

I had the pleasure of reviewing the extraordinary destination spa, located in Eastman, Quebec, this past spring and also their day spa, located in Montreal, Quebec. 

I want to share with you a link to that article, which is currently running as the "Spa of Month" feature in the November 2012 print and digital editions of "Les Nouvelles Esthetiques & Spa".

http://www.lneonline.com/spa_of_the_month/

I hope you enjoy reading about this place of restoration, renewal and self-discovery.  Remember to take some time for yourself...after all, you are worth 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 credits as represented by 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. 

 

A SPA TRADITION CONTINUES

~ HAMMAM RITUAL ~

 ~ KOHLER WATERS SPA CHICAGO AT BURR RIDGE ~

…life-giving water plus heat, heals and restores…

 

I’ve always enjoyed spa treatment experiences at the beautiful and award-winning Kohler Waters Spa.  When I’ve the time, I prefer driving to Kohler, WI and staying overnight at the Carriage House, where the Spa is also located.  When my schedule is tight, I take a short drive to the Chicago location in Burr Ridge, IL.  Either location offers wonderful treatment experiences.  Guests also have at their disposal traditional spa amenities such as whirlpool, steam and sauna.  The Chicago location also offers their guests their unique Circle of Tranquility, which is a self-guided water sanctuary of three different shower experiences (Envelope, Quench and Deluge).  After these preparatory shower rituals, guests can then experience the Spa’s beautiful 25 ft. whirlpool, complete with an exhilarating 8 ft. waterfall that provides invigorating hydro massages.  Guests can also take a plunge in their 8ft. cold plunge pool and cool off, or, they can opt to relax in either the steam room or sauna room, or both.  The Spa’s beautiful co-ed waiting area is ideal to wind-down after a calming and restorative spa treatment. 

 

The Hammam Arrives ~

The Hammam Ritual was one of several new treatments recently added to the menus for all three Kohler Waters Spa locations (Kohler, WI; Chicago; IL; and, St. Andrews, Scotland).  The Hammam Ritual is an 80-minute treatment combining elements of water, heat, aromatherapy, exfoliation, massage, facial and hair, and is one of the more comprehensive ritual treatments I’ve experienced.  I especially appreciated how it honors the traditions of this historical healing and restorative experience.

According to Jean Kolb, Director of Wellness, Kohler Company ~

“The Hammam is our spiritual approach to a therapeutic water treatment.  It indeed feels very much like a baptismal experience with the pouring on of warm water.  It is done very slow and deliberately cleansing away all the impurities of the mind and body.  We are being respectful of the Turkish tradition while still putting a bit of a Kohler twist on the overall experience.”

Hammam History and Semantics ~

Hammams have been around for centuries, and part of world history.  They existed in areas dominated by conquering Romans, Turks and Arabs.  The Hammam remains popular, with people continuing to seek the therapeutic and restorative benefits of the heat, water, exfoliation and massage.

It is believed that bathing became de rigueur as far back as the third century when the Romans built elaborate bathing emporiums for the wealthy, military and general public.  Around the same, Greeks and Turks were also discovering the benefits of individual and communal bathing.  The Turks would add the aspect of very hot water and steam and their Hammams were known for bathing with hot water.  In 600AD, Muhammad recommended steam bathing, which was their version of the Islamic Hammam; in Arab dialect, a Hammam was a toilet or bathroom/bathing area.  When conquering Arabs captured Alexandria in 642AD, they came upon the Roman baths; in order to keep the fires burning to heat up the water, they pillaged some 700,000 works from the Ptolemaic Library and burned them; the fires lasted for approximately six months.  It was also common for Bedouin sheikhs to have elaborate Hammams for their harem. 

Roman baths were enormous, often including elaborate hot and cold pools, areas for massage, even libraries and gymnasiums.  By comparison, the Islamic Hammams were often smaller and more intimate.  The aspect of communal bathing also fronted as a pretext for sexual relations; conquering armies also sought the bathing areas as a way to prepare for battle, or recover from battle.  In time, however, the basic purpose of the Hammam remained as a central place for bathing in hot water, where a person could go to have their body thoroughly exfoliated, washed and then massaged; patrons would then go and relax in an area to cool down from the heat of their cleansing and bathing experience.

 

Throughout the ages, heat and water have remained a source of healing and restoration.  Today’s traditional and alternative medical practitioners routinely prescribe to their patients treatment courses that utilize heat and water as a curative for certain ailments and health conditions.

Traditional Hammam Accoutrement ~

Pestimal Cloth ~ used as a wrap, cover or towel; made of natural cotton.

Kesa (also Kessa, Kese) Mitt ~ used dry on wet skin for deep exfoliation; made of natural silk.

Kazan Bowl ~ large water vessel; made of hammered and decorative silver or copper.

Tas Bowl ~ small water vessel; made of hammered and decorative silver or copper.

Black Soap ~ natural vegetable paste containing black olives, eucalyptus oil and argan oil, that is sometimes soaked in salt and potash; also found in bar form.

The Kohler Waters Spa Chicago Experience ~

I’m met in the Relaxation Area by Renata, and then escorted to the Vichy Wet Room. Before disrobing, Renata asked if I had spent any time in either the steam room or sauna; I hadn’t.  Renata then explained each step of the treatment and what to expect. After disrobing, my torso was wrapped in a colorful plaid Pestimal. 

Standing next to the wet table, I was directed to close my eyes and begin inhaling a very soothing aromatic blend of essential oils that included lavender, peppermint, star anise and cajaput oil.  The product was from the Kerstin Florian Spa Body Collection, Calm Mind Organic Aromatherapy.  After three deep inhales, I felt very relaxed and centered. 

Still standing, Renata began scooping a small silver Tas bowl into a large silver Kazan bowl that was filled with very warm water; she proceeded to pour the water over my entire body; its temperature was tolerable.  After several dousings, I was instructed to lie face up on the wet table, which was also covered with a Pestimal; the first Pestimal remained on me throughout the entire treatment.  Even though I was warm from the previous dousings, Renata douses my body again to make sure my skin is sufficiently wet before she began the labor-intensive exfoliation of my body with the Kesa Mitt.  Although the mitt had a soft grainy texture, the exfoliation was intense, but didn’t cause any skin irritation or discomfort.  In addition to the efficacy of the Kesa, Renata’s pressure and rhythmic strokes were both soothing and massage-like.

After the initial vigorous exfoliation, Renata had me touch my skin to feel how smooth it had become; I also touched some of the sloughed off dead skin the Kesa had removed.  I was shocked at how much dead skin had been removed from just the upper portion of my right leg, and was also amazed at how silky my skin felt.  Between each Kesa exfoliation, the traditional Hammam Black Soap was used to thoroughly cleanse the skin; this was followed by another dousing of warm water to rinse the soap and sloughed skin residue.  Each dousing involved several fills of the Tas bowl; occasionally, Renata had to refill the Kazan bowl with additional very warm water, using a hose.  

The Black Soap was a paste consistency and from the professional backbar product range of Kerstin Florian.  The Soap included black olive and eucalyptus.  Once my topside was meticulously exfoliated and cleansed and doused, I turned over to have my backside treated with the same scrupulous attention.  After that was taken care of, I returned to a face-up position and received one final dousing for good measure before having a liberal application of Kerstin Florian Vita Lotion applied to my entire body; this rich product contains grape seed extract, aloe, shea butter, Vitamin E and macadamia seed oil, and is gentle enough to be used on the face.  As the product was being applied, it felt very soothing.  My body was then covered with sheeting.  Since my hands were covered, I was curious how my skin felt, so I touched portions of my thigh and forearm; the skin felt rehydrated and I couldn’t detect any tacky or greasy residue from the Vita Lotion; the skin felt healthy and firm, not too mention silky smooth.  

Next, my shoulders, neck and scalp were massaged.  My hair was washed and conditioned using Moroccanoil Shampoo and Conditioner, rich in Argan Oil.  Following that, my face was rinsed with warm water and massaged with Kerstin Florian Rehydrating Capilar Essence; this product is rich in Vitamin E, jojoba seed oil and Chamomile.

The Hammam Ritual was an exceptional treatment that revitalized and rehydrated my skin.  My skin felt refined, firmer and was definitely softer.  My hair had a healthy shine to it, while appearing fuller in volume.  My face was also hydrated and soft, and healthier.

I definitely left looking and feeling better than when I first arrived.  All guests that experience the Hammam Ritual are also given the Kesa mitt used during their treatment; it's a nice reminder of their experience the next time they use it at home.  

The addition of the Hammam Ritual to the Kohler Waters Spa treatment menu not only continues the traditions of the Hammam, it also serves as a reminder of how Kohler Waters Spa embraces the therapeutic and restorative aspects of all-things water.   

Resources ~

Kohler Waters Spa Chicago, http://www.americanclubresort.com/spa_br/spa_br_about.html

Kerstin Florian, http://www.kerstinflorian.com

Moroccanoil, http://www.moroccanoil.com

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 credits as represented by the specific brand include Kohler Waters Spa, Universal Companies, and Kerstin Florian; oil painting of a Turksih Hammam by Jean-Jacques-Francois Le Barbier, 1738-1826.)

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. 

THE FACE HAS IT

As seasons change, especially now that fall’s cooler and drier temperatures are setting in, our skincare products and regimen also need to change.  What worked in the summer, generally doesn’t work in the fall, or even winter.  This edition focuses on changing your skincare regimen and includes some high performance products that nourish, restore and revitalize I’ve reviewed.

~ QUICK TIPS FOR MAINTAINING HEALTHY SKIN ~

·       Skin needs to be protected from assaultive climatological changes year-round. 

·       During the colder and drier months especially, consider using products that are more densely formulated, including cream cleansers and moisturizers (versus lotion-based), serums and even face oils. 

·       Consider also limiting the frequency of exfoliating, which will minimize irritation to the delicate tissue.  

·       Be gentle to your skin and don’t forget to try and minimize stress and exposure to environmental pollutants.

·       Use makeup that is dual-purpose, by treating skin while adding color.

·       Get a sufficient amount of rest each night to replenish and revitalize.

·       Drink plenty of hydrating fluids. 

·       Maintain a healthy diet and fitness routine. 

~ PRODUCTS TO CONSIDER ~

Caviar of Switzerland ~ A new entry in the luxury skincare market is Caviar of Switzerland.  This prestigious collection includes Intensive Eye Cream, Cellular Repair Serum and 24h Regeneration Cream.  Key ingredients in each of these products include 1) caviar extract, which is prized for its protein, minerals, vitamins and lipids; the properties also aid in cell regeneration, re-mineralization and hydration; 2) a proprietary formula of a collagen synthesized peptide, which helps to minimize fine lines while firming and hydrating; and, 3) the potent antioxidant resveratrol, which protects the cellular structure from environmental assaults by pollutant free radicals; testing has also shown that this antioxidant contains anti-inflammatory and skin lightening properties.  Other product ingredients include bisabolol, shea butter, panthenol, sodium hyaluronate, vitamin E and UVB filters.  Product consistency is rich and luxurious and glides on effortlessly; all of the products were non-irritating and quickly absorbed without leaving any tacky residue.  My skin immediately looked firmer, brighter and definitely revitalized and healthy.  These Caviar of Switzerland products reminded me of another premier brand of skincare I used many years ago, La Prairie.  http://www.caviarofswitzerland.com

Jane Iredale ~ I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing and using this premier mineral makeup line for at least seven years and have always enjoyed using the products, but have also eagerly looked forward to the new seasonal collections and color palettes.  I wasn’t disappointed with the latest collection, Jane Iredale’s Simply Magical Fall 2012.  Simply Magical is simply stunning!  For the eyes, there’s a PurePressed Eyeshadow trio, Sundown in Deep Charcoal, Shimmery Beige and Rich Purple-Grey, and Mystikol in Smoky Quartz on one end and a Pinky-Peach highlighter on the other end; I love the swivel dispenser action that dispenses just the right amount of color; glides on effortlessly with a soft tip applicator.  What’s great about these colors is that they’re easy to blend and can be worn either light and neutral, or intense and glam; all accentuate the natural beauty of the eyes.  For the cheeks, there’s PurePressed Blush in Whisper, for warmer skin tones and Barely Rose, for cooler skin tones; these blendable colors can also be taken from just a hint of color to a darker blush of beautiful color that also enhance.  For a hint of color to my eyes, I’ve occasionally used the PurePressed Blush without any irritation and the subtle hint of color is lovely.  Wearability, blendability and the ability to take the eye or cheek colors from natural to glam is something I’ve always appreciated about this line.  All of the products are gentle and non-irritating and good for the skin with their base of natural minerals.  Lastly, for the lips, there’s Just Kissed Lip Plumper in Montreal, a Rich Red and Venice, a Mulled Wine.  A huge plus with this product is that it’s also a treatment product; ginger, peppermint and spearmint oils plump, and oils like jojoba, lemon and tangerine hydrate; there are also peptides that stimulate collagen, as well as vitamin E, extracts of green tea, grapeseed and fruit.  Overall, you’ll love the Simply Magical Fall Collection and all of its stunningly beautiful colors.  http://www.janeiredale.com

Marula The Leakey Collection ~ Marula Oil is the current über oil and in terms of antioxidants and Omega 9 fatty acids, is higher than argan or grapeseed oil.  Marula Oil is an effective hydrator, is quickly absorbed, densely concentrated and leaves no tacky or oily residue; its aroma is neutral; it is also rich in vitamin C, anti-oxidant rich flavonoids and fatty acids (palmitic, oleic and stearic), which are all vital to healthy skin and cellular generation. The prized oil is derived from East African Marula trees and wild harvested.  Not only is the fruit prized for skincare benefits, it is also consumed.  In using Marula Oil, I only needed a small quantity, about the size of a pea to amply hydrate my skin; after using the product, my skin felt more firmer and supple with fine lines and wrinkles diminished; I also liked the design of the applicator, which is a swivel dropper that has the exact amount of oil measured each time the dropper is removed.  The Leakey Collection is aligned with the local rural women who harvest the fruit and who then process it for the Marula Oil; this is definitely a fair trade arrangement with production enabling the local women to have a sustainable economy and viable livelihood.  http://www.marula.com

NūFACE Classic ~ Whenever an esthetic device hits the market that promises professional results, buzz on the street and within the industry is audible.  The introduction of the NūFACE device was no different.  Before trying my NūFACE Classic Pink for a Cause, I had a twinge of the skeptic in me daring it to prove itself and all the hype associated with that latest buzz.  Truth be told and after trying it a few times, the buzz on this incredible device has made me a believer.  To a clean face, I applied the Gel Primer to the recommended areas; the Gel Primer is needed to activate the device’s microcurrent flow to the pre-treated areas; I set the device to a mid-level (number 5) for the dispensed measured microcurrent; the current wasn’t felt at any time.  The heads of device should methodically be applied to the recommended areas and suggested pattern; if the activator dries, a mist of water revives it; the microcurrent action won’t occur without the activator delivery system; any residue can either be wiped off or rubbed into the skin; the heads of the device must be thoroughly cleaned, however.  Once the treatment is completed, the rest of one’s skincare regimen can occur.  I was amazed to see noticeable results of firmer and tighter appearing skin and only after the first at-home treatment; it almost appeared like I had a mini face lift, since areas didn't appear to be sagging.  This is a must-have in one’s “arsenal” of skincare tools. http://www.mynuface.com

TouchBack ~ Stunning eyes call for stunning, well-groomed and healthy-looking eyebrows.  It’s not just over-tweezing or improperly tweezing that leads to sparse eyebrows, aging causes a natural loss of eyebrow hair.  Using a 1950s vintage eyebrow pencil can make brows appear “clownish” and over-done.  And while not everyone has the ability to add just the right amount of color fill in thinning eyebrows, the BrowMarker definitely offers precision application with its fine tip applicator.  This product is a magic marker for the brows, but without leaving any permanent color until it’s removed with makeup remover; it bonds to the skin and hair to effortlessly fill in sparse areas.  I tried the BrowMarker in Blonde. The BrowMarker was easy to control and precise.  I was very pleased with the ability to gently and lightly control how much color and brow fill I wanted and where I wanted to apply it too; the result was a beautiful accentuation to my eyebrows, which emphasized my green eyes. http://www.touchbackgray.com

 ~ WORTH MENTIONING ~

Products I’ve previously reviewed that are a must-have for any skincare regimen include the Clarisonic Mia and the Clarisonic Opal.  Both products are ideal for year-round use, and maximize product efficacy while promoting healthy skin.  Both products work nicely with the NūFACE device.

~ THINGS I’VE LEARNED ALONG THE WAY ~

I grew up at a time when most women used Pond’s Cold Cream or Noxzema products; some even used harsh soap to cleanse their face.  When I was in my twenties, my skincare routine was virtually non-existent.  One of the things I regularly did, however, was to wash my face with a gentle soap.  Thinking I was doing my skin a favor, I noticed I was always having annoying blemishes.  Trying to analyze what I was doing wrong, I finally figured out what my problem was.  I’d use a fresh washcloth each day.  The problem was that in between drying, bacteria would form and I’d end up washing my skin with a dirty cloth, thinking I was doing my skin a favor.  Once I figured that out and had the sense to use a fresh cloth each and every time I washed, the annoying blemishes stopped.

For a DIY gentle exfoliator, add cornmeal to your cleanser and limit the frequency of exfoliating your skin.  I exfoliate no more than two to three times a month; to me the weekly or daily exfoliation by some is over-kill and two rough on the tissue, not to mention how it stirs up oil production. 

Another DIY for a refreshing toner is to add food-grade rosewater or orange water to witch-hazel.  The food-grade waters are available at an Indian or Arab market and less expensive than buying waters labeled for skincare.  Witch hazel can be obtained at any drugstore.  Avoid buying the DIY blend that’s already been bottled by the manufacturer; you end up paying more for that version, versus making your own concoction. 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  Support and patronize those businesses that make donations to agencies and organizations that promote breast health and awareness.  Be sure to schedule a yearly mammogram and perform monthly self-exams.

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.

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(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.