Perlane uses a naturally occurring substance in the skin called hyaluronic acid. It provides elasticity and fullness, which is lost in the skin over time. The injections restore this elasticity in a natural way. Following the injection, the hyaluronic molecules bind with water in the skin, creating a plumpening effect. The acid molecules love water and attract it to the area of the injection, and the effect of this lasts about six months.

An injection of Perlane is perfect for the area between the nose and lips, especially the naso-labial folds. Potential patients who are otherwise healthy and have clear skin are ideal candidates for the procedure. Since the injections involve a reintroduction of acid particles into the body, you may experience a mild reaction in those susceptible to chemical responses. Those who rarely or never suffer from reactions to cleansers, lotions, and makeup will more than likely have no problems using Perlane. Most users have reported they are happy with the effects of the injections. They are pleased with both the safety and the ease of the procedure, and since the product contains no animal proteins, risk of animal-based diseases and allergic reactions is limited.

Even with limited risk, there are a few things to be aware of if you are considering Perlane injections. You should understand the results are not permanent and treatments will need to be administered about once every six months to maintain your enhanced appearance. The treatments range in price from $500 to $1,000, which can be costly over an extended period of time. If you do react poorly to the injections due to a protein allergy, there is little that can be done to calm your skin’s response. Potential patients should take into account their medical history and whether they are typically prone to allergic reactions. This will prepare you for the possibility of a negative reaction to Perlane.

More common and less serious reactions include redness, swelling, bumps, pain, bruises, and tenderness in the area of the injection. These reactions typically last about seven days. Those who suffer from bleeding disorders will not be eligible for Perlane injections. If you are currently experiencing skin conditions such as sores, rash, acne, cysts, hives, or infection, you will be asked to delay treatment. Some Perlane users develop inflammation papules following their treatment and need to go on antibiotics.

Since the success of Perlane injections, as well as most medically-oriented skincare treatments, depend a great deal on the skill and experience of your clinician, choose your service giver carefully. Gilmartin reports that most mishaps during skincare procedures occur when the technician does not know how to operate the equipment properly. When interviewing medical spas, ask a lot of questions and be sure you have done research on the procedures you are considering. The clinician should be able to thoroughly explain the procedure and will speak candidly with you about possible reactions. Beware clinics that assure you something is so safe, there are never reactions to it. You should understand both pre- and post-care before agreeing to the treatment, and you should share with the clinic any medical disorders, allowing them to assess your potential response to Perlane.

While Perlane injections may not be the skincare choice for everyone, it does provide an alternative to traditional face lifts for those looking to smooth wrinkles, lines, deep crevices, and folds. It is a safe and affordable solution, that can be given in a dermatologist’s office or medical spa. Dermalounge offers Perlane treatment in a medical spa environment that users find relaxing and professional. If you would like to restore your youthful appearance, success may be just a treatment away.

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Times have changed. Not only have traditional spa treatments like massage become more medically oriented, new procedures have been developed that are aesthetic, but medical in nature. These are less invasive treatments than plastic surgery, but they must be performed by licensed health care professionals like nurses and nurse practitioners. These procedures include advanced aesthetic treatments like chemical peels, volumizing skin injections, laser hair removal, and photorejuvenation for the skin. With the line between medical and cosmetic procedure blurring, the environment in which these procedures are performed are a blend of medical sterility and spa-like comfort. The idea of a medical spa is a relatively new one, but these facilities are growing in popularity. The best ones integrate therapeutic wellness and cosmetic components. This mix of pampering and medicine is creating a phenomena that continues to evolve and offer medically-oriented, elective cosmetic procedures.

Paula Gilmartin, regional manager and aesthetic nurse trainer at Dermalounge in California, feels this blend of medical and spa environments offers clients a comfortable and cozy alternative to a sterile medical office. She says it “…helps the client build a relationship with the practitioner. It is sterile and safe, but also feels comfortable and pampering. Clients do not feel rushed.” Sometimes aesthetic medical procedures can be uncomfortable. Performing them in a cozy environment makes them more pleasant. While it is not possible for major medical procedures to occur in a “cozy” environment, hospitals are taking a cue from those who believe environment plays an important role in health. Recovery rooms and in-patient rooms have become warmer and more comfortable in recent years. With a medical spa, owners and operators have more flexibility. Many procedures are non-invasive, giving them a greater range of options for creating a comfortable environment.

There are three areas operators of medical spas have begun focusing on, hoping to create the ideal environment for treatments. For starters, medical spas seek to create a unique ambiance. Most spas want to go beyond their client’s expectations. Someone undergoing a cosmetic treatment is going to expect a sterile, clean environment, but if the medical spa can also provide soothing comfort, their clients can relax and enjoy the procedure. A lot of clinics are offering soft robes and comfortable linens. Even if a treatment is uncomfortable, at least a client can be surrounded by soothing materials. Medical spas are also focusing on creating a soothing color palette, incorporating aromatherapy into treatments, and using soothing music often heard in traditional spa environments.

In addition to ambiance, a lot of medical spas are making an effort to customize treatment. They work closely with the client to address lifestyle changes such as diet, stress, medication, sun exposure, and upcoming events. Building a relationship with the client is very important. Whereas a person may visit a doctor for a specific, one-time treatment, medical spas can offer a variety of treatments that are appropriate during different phases of a person’s life. Much like nutrition and fitness are on-going self-improvement practices, skincare procedures should adjust with a person’s life changes. Medical spas can also offer follow-up products for at-home use, allowing clients to have control over the care of their skin. It is important that the medical spa you choose be able to educate, as well as service you. Through the use of consultations and literature, you should play an active role in your skincare program.

As medical spas become more popular, a growing eastern influence is showing up in the environment. These facilities are not only offering medically-oriented procedures, they are also offering traditional spa treatments with a medicinal twist. Offering these wellness procedures brings people to the spa more frequently, and makes it a regular part of their self-care program, similar to the role a salon might play. Treatments like acupuncture, hydrotherapy, and massage all fit nicely into a medical spa’s menu of services. Medical spas should take care not to offer therapies that are viewed as “too alternative.” Incorporating services that target well-being is fine, but they should not sacrifice their medical credibility just to expand their client base.

Medical spas such as Dermalounge offer clients medically oriented skincare procedures in a spa-like environment. This environment ensures the comfort and confidence of clients, and encourages them to return again and again in order to keep their skin healthy.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

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The next step is the exfoliation process. During the exfoliation, the skin is exfoliated. This means that the older and dead skin cells are removed. This can be done through mechanical or chemical devices. Mechanical means that the spa professional will scrub your face with an abrasive treatment.

Chemical process uses scrubs to exfoliate the skin which contain salicylic acids, glycolic acids, fruit enzymes, citric acids, or malic acids. In low doses, this can be done by the spa professional using over-the-counter treatments. When chemicals are used in high doses, it is best to have this done by a dermatologist.

A soothing mask is also placed upon the client’s face. This mask is actually picked using the client’s skin type. The client’s skin type may be dry, oily, sensitive, or a combination skin type.

The European facial usually ends with a face, neck, and shoulder massage. The massage helps relieve tension in the body allowing for a better blood flow and circulation.

Who is a Good Candidate for European Facials?

The best candidate for a European facial would be one who is in good physical and psychological health. People who need minimal treatment on their skin and pores such as removal of minor blackheads and whiteheads would make for better candidates. Clients who have severe acne problems would be better off seeing a dermatologist. That’s because European facials may even cause more breakouts, making medicinal treatments a better option.

If you are unsure if you are a good candidate for a European facial, you should consult with your physician as well as a dermatologist. Try looking into several spas before choosing one to have your procedure. Make a list of pros and cons of each, allowing you to get a better visual of the spa with the most benefits and the least potential for risks.

Benefits

Benefits include removal of impurities of the skin such as whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. It also includes the removal of embedded dirt under the skin. After a European facial, the face feels renewed and youthful. Circulation and blood flow is better leaving the feeling of being tired, stress, and tense behind.

With the rejuvenated you, comes a lift in confidence. Having a “perfect” face to look back at in the mirror gives you a better sense of self as well as higher self-esteem. The detoxification process of the skin also gives you healthier skin..

Risks

You probably think that no risks are involved with getting your face “really cleaned.” But, when you have your face poked and prodded as well as cleaned and picked at, it leaves your skin open for infection. Extracting the unhealthy dirt from the skin leaves pores open and ready for infection to set in.

If your spa professional is not careful, you may be at risk for not only infection but for scarring of the face as well. To ensure that you have the best possible outcome after your European facial, choose the spa site wisely. Make a few trips beforehand, asks previous customers about their experience, and evaluate the cleanliness level of the spa as well.

While risks are few and far between, they are possible. To ensure minimal risks, you must also follow any after-care directions. After the procedure, if you are feeling any pain, discomfort, or you think there may be infection they should consult a doctor immediately.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

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A spray tan is the only dependable way to get a tan that is safe and healthy.

Everyone wants a tan. A tan is associated with health and beauty, which is funny, since the natural way to get a tan is one of the least healthy things we can do to our bodies. Hello, skin cancer. Health-conscious tan seekers skip the sun and head to the tanning beds – wrong again. Now, experts are telling us beds are no less dangerous than the sun, and are basically a skin cancer guarantee. There’s got to be another way for us to get that beautiful tone we want and crave, right? Meet the spray tan.

What is a Spray Tan?

The definition is in the title. Get the glow without, you know, the life-threatening disease. Now, when spray tans first hit the beauty scene, it was a suspect concept, and an orange one at that. The pumpkin hue hasn’t completely left the picture. A lot of store-bought self-tanning sprays as well as some lower- end tanning salons haven’t gotten with the times and the better quality formulas. If you were going for more of a gold than sweet potato, your best bet is to hit a spa or research the tanning salons near you. Read reviews, check out the packages. You want affordable, but if it’s scary cheap, there’s a reason.

The process is easy, and there are two options. Before you get either, make sure to exfoliate. This gets rid of the dead skin and helps the tan take hold and last. So for your options: the cheaper one is the booth. You’ll strip down and put lotion on places that tend to gather too much of the spray, like hands and feet, to avoid unevenness. Hop in the booth and get sprayed in the front, then the back. Air dry a bit and you’re good to go. A quality tan venue like a spa or well-known salon has top of the line sprays, and your tan will look natural, healthy, and sun-kissed. At least three people will ask you where you went on vacation.

For a higher price tag but more guaranteed perfection, you can actually have someone spray you. Instead of taking your chances with an automated booth, a spray-er will apply the tan, making sure it’s perfectly even and natural. This is unquestionably the option if you have a little more cash to burn at the spa or salon. Otherwise, the booth awaits, and fear not. Technology has given us better booths.

For example, one kind of booth, known as the Mystic Tan (www.mystictan.com), is one of the most common booths in salons and spas. While a step up from orangey hues, it was still known to be a little streaky and messy. Now, we’ve one-upped that with the Versa Tan (www.versaspasystem.com), a new booth being used in salons and spas. Now not only will you not be orange, but you also won’t be streaky or messy, just even and smooth. Plus the Versa also has a moisturizing spray, leaving your skin silky despite the tan spray. According to Versa’s rave reviews like those on www.beautysnob.com, you can even choose the intensity of your tan in this booth: light, medium, or dark. This is a great option because if you’re a pasty Irish gal with freckles and strawberry blonde hair, and you come out one day looking Brazilian, you’re not fooling anyone. Start with light and work your way up. Don’t give up on a great salon with rave reviews and good prices if you see Mystic Tanning booths, though. If you are careful, apply lotion evenly, and let yourself dry thoroughly, you can still get a quality tan.

Who should get a Spray Tan?

Everyone! Come on, people, we know too much now about the dangers of the sun and the tanning beds. Quit frying your skin. You might look great now, but in 10 to 20 years, you’re going to match your favorite brown leather handbag. We all want to be tan, for different reasons. Some favor that healthy glow, some like to appear to be jetsetters, some just think it complements their hair and/or eye color. Either way, if we’re all after a tan, we should all be lining up for that spray. When you think about it, it’s really the only option for tanning these days.

What are the benefits of a Spray Tan?

A spray tan is the only dependable way to get a tan that is safe and healthy. You are not endangering yourself with skin cancer, and yet you still look utterly glowing and sun kissed. Do not be afraid of the orange tan. For the most part, this is a thing of the past. Spray tans last 5 to 10 days according to www.envytan.com, which is pretty good considering it will be even, bronzed, and cancer-free. Plus, if you look at different packages offered at salons and spas, you can get a spray session as low as $10.

What are the risks of a Spray Tan?

If you don’t use common sense, your tan can be less than gorgeous. Don’t move when you’re getting sprayed – this is harder than it sounds, say you get a sudden, wicked itch. Resist, and you’ll be thankful you did. Even when you do your part, some booths just might not be top of the line, so you do have a chance of being streaky or splotchy. But don’t give up on spray tans. Your next tan cannot only cover your previous mess, but show you a perfect and even tan is possible. The spray tan can also dry your skin out, so go heavy on the moisturizer.

Bottom line?

A slight risk of streakiness that fades in a few days and may never happen again? Totally worth a spray tan’s amazing advantages of a gorgeous glow and no health risks.

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Professional makeup application could be just the boost you need to have you feeling fresh and young again.

A professional makeup application is an investment in beauty that many women do not consider. They may assume that they have been using makeup since their teens and they know exactly what they are doing. Others may not like being fretted over or touched by strangers, and would feel uncomfortable allowing someone to perform such a personal act. Some other women, though, may welcome the idea of a professional makeup application.

What Is It?

A professional makeup application involves going to a spa and having a clinician apply your makeup. Department stores and beauty boutiques often offer this service as well, and it will typically be free of charge because they are trying to sell their products. However, a spa will typically charge a fee for the service or include it in
a spa-services package. Because of this, you will more than likely not be asked to purchase products. Using tools that have been cleaned to prevent bacteria from accumulating and makeup palettes in a variety of colors and skin types, the clinician will apply a full face of makeup for the client. She  should speak with the client
beforehand to determine any skin sensitivities or anything they would not like done. A good professional makeup application will involve several consultations with the client as each product is applied. This is to ensure that the client will more than likely be happy with the result.

Who Needs It?

A variety of women can benefit from a professional makeup application. Young girls that are just getting used to applying makeup will learn the proper amount to use of each product. Often, young girls overdue their makeup application, and a professional can help her realize that they are most attractive when her natural beauty shows
through a light makeup application.

Women who are in professions where looks are valued may benefit from a professional makeup lesson. Sure, television stars and news anchors have their makeup professionally done daily, but there are a number of professions where a bright, well-made-up face will aid someone with her job duties. If you feel that you will be more successful in your line of work if your makeup is applied flawlessly, consider a makeup application lesson. Anyone that feels they need a refresher, or that they are still using the same products from decades ago should consider a professional makeup application. As women age, they may find that they do not feel as attractive as they used to be. There are often products that can boost their confidence and make them feel young and lovely once again. A professional will help them choose the correct products so they are not overwhelmed with the many options on the market.

Finally, those that have experienced facial scarring or significant facial changes, like plastic surgery, will benefit from a professional makeup application. A trained clinician can help you apply makeup in a way that diminishes the appearance of the scar, or that temporarily covers any markings from plastic surgery. There may also be products available that can, over time, help diminish the appearance of the scars without makeup. A trained professional can help you make these determinations.

Benefits

The benefits of a professional makeup application are immediate. You will leave the spa feeling lovely and ready to face the world. The products may also offer sun protection so you are not going outdoors after a facial with tender, unprotected skin. In addition to the immediate benefit of the makeup application, you will reap the rewards of a professional lesson and possibly learn a few new application tips.

Risks

The risks for professional makeup application are few, but should be considered carefully. If products are being used on the skin that have not been used before, there is always the chance that your skin will react poorly. Be sure to discuss allergies with the clinician beforehand, as well as any reactions you have had to products in the past. Even if your skin accepts the makeup with no problem, you may be uncomfortable with the application. If the clinician does not offer, ask to see your face throughout the application to ensure that the makeup is not being applied too heavily. Speak with the clinician during the process so you learn why they are making the color choices they are making. There is a chance she may do something new and you will love it, but it is important to work through the process with her.

Professional makeup application could be just the boost you need to have you feeling fresh and young again. If a spa service in your future, consider following it with a professional application of makeup. You may find a few new products or techniques that you love and will use for years to come.

If you are considering makeup application, check out the following links to find specialists in your area:

Atlanta Spa | Boston Spa | Charlotte Spa | Chicago Spa | Dallas Spa | Los Angeles Spa | Miami Spa | Minneapolis Spa | New York Spa | Philadelphia Spa | Phoenix Spa | San Francisco Spa | Seattle Spa | Washington, DC Spa | See More Cities

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The innovative technology behind VelaShape offers promising results in the war against cellulite.

As more and more creams promise tighter, firmer skin and tabloids and gossip sites attack celebrities for every unsightly skin dimple, it’s clear the pressure is on for everybody (and I do mean every body) to get smoother, slimmer, and sleeker.

Cellulite, once thought to be nearly impossible to get rid of, is now facing more formidable enemies than ever before in its crusade to ruin your swimsuit season. From creams to seaweed wraps to Ayurvedic massage, spas and skin specialists have more to offer their skin-conscious clients than ever before.

One popular procedure that’s being offered is VelaShape. Women across the country became intrigued by VelaShape as it gained national press and a list of celebrity clients. Recently the treatment has been featured in womens’ magazines and on morning and radio talk shows.

Curious if VelaShape really lives up to the hype? Here’s some info on the anti-cellulite sensation.

What is VelaShape?

VelaShape is a skin treatment that aids in reducing the appearance of cellulite. Cellulite is a condition in which the skin of the lower limbs, abdomen, and pelvic region becomes dimpled to create a cottage cheese-like texture. VelaShape uses its trademarked “Elos” technology to smooth and tone skin. The Elos system includes bi-polar radio frequency (also called RF), infrared light energy, vacuum treatment, and mechanical message. VelaShape is “the only non-surgical medical device cleared by the FDA for circumferential reduction.”

This Elos technology is innovative in that with the use of radio frequency, it allows for the use of light energy that is safe but highly effective. The radio frequency and optical light energy work synergistically. Along with tissue manipulation and massage, these techniques help smooth the skin.

Most clients receive at least four VelaShape treatments. The treatments are usually described as comfortable and comparable to a deep tissue massage. A deep heated sensation will be felt underneath throughout the procedure. Redness may be experienced for a few hours afterwards, along with a warm sensation on the skin.

Who Needs VelaShape?

Anyone dissatisfied with the cellulite they see on their body may want to consider VelaShape as a treatment option. Women are most likely to get cellulite, and it is most often a problem on the legs, buttocks, and stomach. Women who have tried over-the-counter creams and treatments may also seek a more advanced cellulite treatment like VelaShape. Women of all shapes, sizes, and ages suffer from cellulite.

What are the Benefits of VelaShape?

VelaShape claims to give clients a more toned, contoured, and youthful looking body in as little as four treatments. The procedure gradually gives the skin’s surface a smoother tone, with a reduction in cellulite and circumference, as well as a significant reshaping of the area treated with VelaShape. A more svelte figure and tighter skin may help with self-confidence issues and, well, looking better naked. Always a plus.

What are the Dangers or Disadvantages of VelaShape?

One risk involved with VelaShape, and perhaps all cellulite treatments, is that the results won’t be as noticeable or effective as hoped. While the VelaShape system is backed by science and strong word-of-mouth, the fact is that just as every body is different, so is every body’s cellulite. Some women’s cellulite may be truly and dramatically reduced, while others may have more stubborn problem areas that require more treatments. Some may not get the results they seek even after numerous treatments over an extended amount of time.

While prices vary depending upon your spa or skin specialist, Vela Shape is usually quite a costly endeavor. Also, while immediate skin-smoothing results may be seen after just the first treatment, it may take to 6 to 8 weeks to see a visible reduction in cellulite or circumference.

Another possible disadvantage of VelaShape is the short-term effects, which may include mild bruising and/ or redness. In rare cases, burning or scarring has also occurred. To reduce these risks, make sure that your skin technician is skilled in the application of VelaShape.

How Can You Get the Most From VelaShape?

You can maximize your results with a healthy lifestyle before, during, and after your VelaShape treatments. Eating healthy and exercising regularly will reduce toxins in your body and improve circulation, both factors in cellulite. Periodic maintenance VelaShape treatments are also recommended.

The Bottom Line

The innovative technology behind VelaShape offers promising results in the war against cellulite. But before you spend a pretty penny, make sure your expectations are realistic and get the most “bang for your buck” by following the procedure with a healthy lifestyle.

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Depending on the spa and the amount the hostess is willing to spend on the event, some spa parties also include medical anti-aging treatments for guests, such as Botox, microdermabrasion, and laser hair removal.

It’s the ultimate gift of luxury you can give to friends—hosting a party at a popular local spa. Whether you’re throwing a bridal shower, a birthday party, or just a gathering for girlfriends, hosting an event at a spa is one sure fire way to ensure your party is one that nobody will forget.

That’s because whether your friends are working moms or twenty-something gals, everyone appreciates a good spa treatment. And without the worry and hassle of setting up a party space or organizing the menu, throwing together an event couldn’t be easier.

Pick a Spa

Thanks to recent growth in the spa party trend, many spas are now willing to open up at night for private events for their favorite clients. If information about private parties isn’t available on the company’s website, go ahead and call in to ask. For the best chance of having a successful party, choose a spa that has hosted these types of events before and can handle all the details A-to-Z.

Invite the Right Guests

Choosing the right mix of guests is one of the most important keys to any successful party, and a spa event is no exception. Since a spa party will most likely be an intimate affair, it’s best to only invite your closest friends. In addition, make sure to invite the girls you think will enjoy the treatments most, since there is no point in inviting that dreaded sister-in-law who dislikes all things girly and detests getting manicures anyway.

Make a Treatment Menu

Although each spa party is different, many hostesses choose to set up spa stations around the salon, so multiple party guests can receive treatments at one time. The specific treatments offered at a spa party can vary depending on what the spa offers and what the hostess is willing to pay for, but most commonly include manicures, pedicures, facials, make-up application, and body treatments.

Depending on the spa and the amount the hostess is willing to spend on the event, some spa parties also include medical anti-aging treatments for guests, such as Botox, microdermabrasion, and laser hair removal.

Select Finger Foods

As with any party, having enough food and drinks to satisfy guests is key. While some spas allow party hostesses to bring their own foods and drinks to the event—often the cheaper option—others may require that party hostesses choose their beverage options from a spa-approved menu.

No matter what the situation, hostesses should be sure to include at least one champagne drink, since it generally goes together well with a spa party. As for munchies, opt for finger foods that are as easy to eat as possible. And don’t forget to take into account all the manicures that guests are likely to be getting, since nobody with freshly painted nails is likely to be digging into any hors d’oeuvres that are difficult to eat.

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The benefits of a spa day are emotional as well as physical.

A day at the spa is a great way to relax and unwind. You can choose the full menu of services and build a luxurious and expensive experience, or you can create a spa in your own home and have a break for the daily grind for a fraction of the cost. It is not difficult to enjoy a spa experience, but a little knowledge beforehand will make it even easier.

What Is It?

A spa day is a day for you to experience relaxing and healthy treatments. It helps restore balance, emotional peace, and physical wellness. Procedures that are often affiliated with a spa day are manicures and pedicures, massages, herbal wraps, facials, and saunas. Visiting a spa is a great way to experience many of these procedures. Many facilities offer packages that allow visitors to experience several services, often for a reduced fee. Your experience at the spa will begin with a short interview, ensuring the services you will be enjoying are safe for you. Next, you will have time to relax and unwind before the services begin. Some day spas provide robes and slippers. Once you have changed, you may have a few minutes to enjoy a cup of tea and browse through a magazine.

When the clinician is ready, you will be called to your private service room. Sometimes, procedures like manicures and pedicures are not available in a private room. However, if you are having a facial or full-body massage, privacy will be guaranteed. Massage therapists will use products like oils and lotions, and facials will include the application of masks, moisturizers, and astringent. Be sure to speak with the technician in advance to ensure he is aware of any allergies you may have.

For an at home spa experience, you can recreate many of these same procedures. Soaking your hands and feet, moisturizing, and massaging before applying polish is a great way to rejuvenate and boost your beauty regimen. You can find facial recipes online that are all natural and inexpensive to create. Enhance your at home spa experience by lowering the lights, unplugging the phone, and putting on soft, relaxing music.

Who Needs It?

Spa proponents will tell you EVERYONE needs it. However, some are skeptical concerning the medical benefits. Anyone that enjoys being touched will enjoy most spa procedures. Even those that are a bit uncomfortable with physical intimacy may benefit. If your concerned about your appearance, spa experiences can help you refresh your skin and brighten your appearance. If you are suffering from stress-induced muscle spasms or soreness, a massage will be just what the doctor ordered. A spa day is also ideal for a mother-daughter outing, a bridal shower, or a girlfriend getaway.

Spa experiences can be utilized for more severe situations as well. Those undergoing medical treatments may find that massage helps lessen pain. Furthermore, those that have undergone chemotherapy or any other process that alters the appearance may enjoy a day at the spa. It will boost their mood and help them to feel “pretty” and comfortable in their own skin. Speak with your doctor beforehand about medical conditions and be sure to get a signed release from him to share with the spa. When making your appointment, share your condition in case there are specially trained technicians with whom you should make your appointment.

Benefits

Even though studies have shown that stress is a number one cause of other disorders, and it has been proven that procedures like massage reduce stress, there are still those that are unsure of the benefits. Massage loosens the muscles, realigns structural oddities, and flushes toxins. Other procedures to relieve stress and cleanse the body.

An at-home experience gives you time to focus on yourself and turn the stress and aggravation of the world off for awhile. Creating a spa day is like giving yourself a present. Many of the products you can create are all natural and gently nourish your skin. The benefits of a spa day are both emotional and physical.

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Medical spas perform little repairs that don’t require a trip to the plastic surgeon, such as teeth whitening, collagen injections and skin rejuvenation.

You’ve looked in the mirror and noticed that your face is lined, your skin is dry and your hair, as they say in the commercials, is brittle and lifeless. Time for a body break! A trip to the spa is what you crave, so you scan the local offerings and—shrivel up a little bit more. Too many choices, all sounding lovely and/or clinical enough to fix what ails you … if only you knew what that was.

All the more reason to get thee to the spa. Now is the time to put your face and your body in the hands of professionals. Yes, these people go to school: facialists, massage therapists, hair artists, estheticians. Most states license their work, to make sure that they follow healthy and safe procedures. Medical spas will have fully credentialed doctors and nurses on staff. A licensing board provides quality control and gives unsatisfied customers someone to complain to. But you probably won’t need to file a grievance. In fact, when it’s over, you’ll be begging for your next appointment.

What Types of Spas Await You

It’s easy to sort out the different types of spas. Choose from:

• Residential health retreats
• Beauty day spas
• Relaxation day spas
• Medical procedure spas
• Theme spas
• Resort spas

First, there are day spas that send you home beautiful at the end of the day. Then, there are residential spas, where you stay for a week or more, so that the healthy stuff sinks in. Some of these bed, body and breakfast establishments are educational, such as the famed Esalen Institute in Northern California and Breitenbush Hot Springs in Oregon. Some are housed at luxury resorts, such as Cal-a-Vie in Southern California, or on luxury cruise liners, such as Aqua Spa on some Celebrity cruises.

Of the day spas, some focus on beauty maintenance, including facial, hair, makeup and nail treatments. Others focus on relaxation, with more body and mind work like massage, hydrotherapy and aromatherapy. Medical spas perform little repairs that don’t require a trip to the plastic surgeon, such as teeth whitening, collagen injections and skin rejuvenation.

Any of these salons might have a theme, usually tending toward the exotic and foreign. Thai, Balinese and Tahitian-themed spas offer unique massage and floral therapies.

So, to choose your spa, ask yourself:

• Can I afford a day or a week away from home?
• Is stress, a new look, or aging my target priority?
• Do I need a Tahitian wrap or an Indian head massage?

Who Winds Up in A Day Spa

This kind of elevated R&R is not just for the rich and famous (read, “spoiled”) anymore. The concept of taking a break to focus on physical well-being and mental attitude is mainstream these days. Of course, you can go as over the top as you like with the luxury. Or you can get an affordable facial and come out smelling like a rose.

That means you’ll see both the ordinary and the high-fallutin’ guys and gals at just about any spa. Yes—guys, too. You can thank the cosmetic companies for inuring the fellas to hair gel and beard softeners; now men flock to beauty services, although they may prefer the term “gentlemen’s grooming enhancements.”

So, you’ll rub elbows with men and women of all ages and body types. Kids are welcome at some salons, usually with an age limit by type of service. Salon days and stays are popular activities and gifts for wedding parties, deserving employees, moms and daughters, and guys who like to have their toenails clipped while sipping a beer or scotch.

What’s Not to Like?

Since the benefits of bodywork and cosmetic treatments are more than skin deep, you really get your money’s worth from a spa visit. Massage, reflexology and hot tub soaks send oxygen to tired muscles and improve circulation. Facials and wraps exfoliate and rehydrate skin, the body’s largest organ. Eucalyptus steam baths and aromatherapy clear the respiratory system and heighten your mood.

Even hair and nail treatments and styling keep you healthy and make you feel great when you look in the mirror. There truly are too many benefits to list. Just about any service you can choose from a reputable spa will add vigor and happiness to your life.

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Body contouring includes a variety of procedures all designed to reshape the body through the use of the latest technology. There are several methods people can choose from depending upon whether they want to remove extra fat or extra skin.

Body contouring is a term often used to describe the changing of the body through medical procedures. Originally, body sculpting was an option for people that had just undergone a dramatic weight loss. The extra skin and mis-shapen form that significant weight loss leaves a person with can sometimes make them even more self conscious than the excess weight did. This loose, sagging skin can create hygiene problems and is prone to chafing, rashes and infection. New procedures now exist that do not involve surgery. Doctors consider body contouring a less invasive method than traditional plastic surgery. Because the procedure is non-surgical, it allows a patient to transform their body shape, size, and look without cutting the skin.

What Is It?

Body contouring includes a variety of procedures all designed to reshape the body through the use of the latest technology. There are several methods people can choose from depending upon whether they want to remove extra fat or extra skin. Liposuction and other means of sculpting the body are often the final step after gastric bypass surgery, which causes people to lose a significant amount of weight.There are a number of different procedures from which a person can choose.

Lipotherapy rids the body of fat and cellulite. The procedure involves a solution injected in the fatty tissue just under the skin. The solution dissolves fat, which the body then absorbs naturally through the metabolism. Another method of ridding the body of cellulite and fat is Ionithermie. It is an advanced method of detoxifying the body and lessening the appearance of cellulite.

Mesotherapy uses multiple injections of a cocktail of fat reducing chemicals. It uses pharmaceutical and homeopathic medications, vitamins, plant extracts, and other ingredients to dissolve fat.

Those wanting the effects of a facelift without the risk and long recovery period may want to try Thermage. This procedure uses radio frequency to tighten facial skin around the eyes. It is sometimes called ThermaLift, Thermal Lifting, Therma Plasty, and Thermoplastic. The face is numbed prior to the procedure and pain medication may be prescribed after.

Who Needs It?

Those who are searching for the effects of liposuction or a facelift without the long receovery period or the invasive surgery of those procedures may want to consider body contouring. When researching the procedure, be sure to spend a great deal of time determining which medical spa will work best for you. Experts agree that the skill of the clinician determines how successful the procedure will be. Someone that has access to a talented body contouring facility should consider the procedure.

In addition to a shortened recovery time and access to quality care, body contouring offers someone with lowered self esteem a chance to recreate their look. The procedure does not require as serious and risky a committment as plastic surgury, so it is a great way to significantly freshen one’s look. Keep in mind it is still a medical procedure, but because it is non-invasive, a lot of people may be more willing to try it.

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