When & How Often Should I Get A Facial?

This question is definitely my most frequently asked question. I will start out by saying that if you are looking for results, getting a facial regularly is very important. When I say regularly, I mean making your skin a priority, like you would work and working out. I suggest scheduling in self care as if it were part of your day. This means washing your face morning and night, not sleeping with makeup on, exfoliating at least once a week, treatment masks etc.. That also means rebooking facials/treatments about every 3-4 weeks depending on the severity of the treatment you are getting. A basic facial with a scrub based exfoliant that is gentle and not abrasive can be performed as often as every week. That is not feasible or realistic for most people. So I suggest 3-4 weeks, however during the weeks you are not getting worked on, home care is so so important. It prolongs the effects of your facial and prevents further irritation post treatment, or speeds up the process of the treatment (all depending on the home care that was provided to you at the end of your treatment). 

For treatments such as chemical peels, enzymes or any other treatment that exfoliates the skin on a deeper level, I suggest no sooner than 4-6 weeks. It generally takes 3-4 weeks for the skin to move through a full life cycle of cell regeneration. As we age this process slows down dramatically which is why our skin starts to age and lose its elasticity. Chemical peels and enzymes are such an amazing anti-aging treatment because they speed up the process in which the skin turns over, creating fresh new skin that is firmer and younger looking. 

For microdermabrasion and physical exfoliation that is less intense can be performed as often as 2-3 weeks depending on the sensitivity of your skin. Microdermabrasion and physical exfoliation are great treatments for smoothing the surface of your skin, lightening and brightening your complexion, unclogging very minor acne, diminishing the appearance of large pores and blackheads and smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Most importantly, NEVER get a facial too close to an important event. If you are getting married especially, 2-3 weeks prior to the event to prevent any possible allergic reaction or purging of the skin. 

(Photo courtesy of ASCP)

NEW to the Menu: Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a form of mechanical exfoliation that removes dead skin cells from the epidermis (outermost layer of skin). The type of microdermabrasion that I perform is Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion. This uses a crushed diamond tip that is coarse for exfoliation combined with suction to aid in pore cleansing and provides the level of exfoliation. There are many benefits of Microdermabrasion which include:

• Smooths Fine lines and wrinkles
• Diminishes large pores
• Helps mild skin congestion
• Mild hyperpigmentation
• Smooths superficial scarring
• Smooths Stretch marks
• Stimulates the production of collagen

Treatments work best in a series of 6, 7-10 days apart. Post treatment, the client should always use moisturizer and SPF of 30 or more. Clients should avoid hot showers, exercise, steam or saunas for at least 24 hours and should avoid exfoliation prior and post treatment for at least 7 days. Please avoid prior to treatment for at least 1-2 weeks: Botox, Fillers (6 weeks prior), Electrolysis, waxing, Retin A, or any topical prescription acne medication. This treatment is not for those with Diabetes, Hepatitis, Auto Immune Disorders and results may vary in clients who smoke. 

(Image courtesy of ASCP)

Why the Enzyme Craze?

Some of my clients might be wondering what this whole new wave of enzymes are that i've implemented into my practice. While some are quite tingly and not the most comfortable procedure, they do an amazing job targeting a number of skin ailments. If you're looking for a spa facial thats more relaxing, these type of facials are not for you. If you're looking for dramatic results then this is definitely the facial for you. The reason why I LOVE enzymes so much is the specific enzymes I work with can be modified to be stronger or weaker depending on your skin type and can also be combined with acids or retinols to make it a more targeted treatment. I've seen some really profound results since I've started working with them and want to help you understand what they are and how they work so you can fall in love with them as much as me.

What are enzymes and why do they work so well? 
Enzymes are my preferred form of exfoliation during a facial treatment because of their incredible ability to eat away at dead skin cells while causing very little irritation. The specific enzymes I work with are combined with a multitude of anti-oxidants such as blueberries, cherries, pumpkin etc.. which give them extra credibility for anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties. Physical exfoliation buffs away the surface of the skin to cause a polished appearance however can be abrasive at times according to the sensitivity level or your skin. Enzymes breakdown the keratin protein and can even protect against free radicals and oxidative damage. Some of these enzymes are combined with lactic, glycolic, salicylic, arbutin, mandelic, and kojic acids to provide an extra boost of acne fighting, skin lightening or hydrating properties. Each enzyme targets a different skin condition and result, which I will determine during your skin consult, what would be the right treatment for your skin and your skincare goals.

What are Peels? Which do I choose?
I love a good chemical peel especially for aging skin. As we age the rate at which our skin cells regenerates slows down causing a build up of dead skin cells and reveals a very dry, dull and uneven complexion. Peels speed up this process by causing temporary damage to the skin so it can regenerate new skin cells and collagen at a faster rate, thus revealing an even, smooth and bright complexion. However, a chemical peel can be misconstrued by many people. Not all of them cause a ton of actual peeling. They all have a different molecular size which allows some chemical peels to penetrate deeper into the skin then others. There are 3 types of peels. Superficial, Medium and Deep.  These peels all have different rates at which the skin heals and  may cause initial dryness and some flaking until the new skin is regenerated. Superficial peels usually require about 7 days to heal. Medium about 14 days and Deep about 14-21 days. Your skin needs to heal completely before receiving another peel, so getting peels too often can actually cause your skin to darken, purge more or cause a lot of irritation. Peels help a number of skin conditions such as:

Acne scars 

Aging skin 

Crow's feet 

Hyperpigmentation 

Melasma  

Scars 

Sun damaged skin 

Sagging skin 

Wrinkles 

I suggest starting off with enzymes since it is a little gentler and as your skin adjusts to these enzymes you can add a boost and eventually start superficial peels and work your way up. Please feel free to request some amazing before and afters in my treatment room.

(Photo courtesy of ASCP)

5 Tips to Winterize Your Skin!

Tis' the season for steamy hot showers, numerous tea and coffee drinks throughout the day, and pumping high drying heat in our homes. Although, those are all comforting to us during the cold weather, they take a huge toll on our skin. Dry-chapped, flakey lips, scaly alligator skin, rough cracked heels and itchy dry scalps are just a few of the downfalls of the winter on our bodies, making us feel sluggish and unattractive. Here are a few tips to winterize your skin, so it is glowing right into the spring!

1. Switch to oils. Ditch the usual lotion when you get out of the shower. Try an oil such as, coconut oil, grapeseed oil, olive oil or jojoba oil. These oils absorb into your skin but tackle the dry, flakiness without the chemicals and unnecessary ingredients found in the store bought lotions and creams. It's heavier in consistency and feels really luxurious. If you hate the feeling of oils, try something heavier than a normal lotion like a body butter or a thicker ointment like Eucerin. 

2. Exfoliate. Exfoliate. Exfoliate. You can moisturize dry skin over and over again, but until you slough off the dead skin, that moisturizer is not going to absorb into the skin the way it should. It can also clog pores. So exfoliate 3 times a week with a mild exfoliant. DO NOT GO OVERBOARD. You do not need to use an abrasive scrub to get the results you are looking for. A sugar scrub for the body, should do the trick. 

3. Increase Omega 3 Fatty Acids. Besides increasing your water intake, Omega 3 fats are extremely important to hydrate the skin from the inside out. Omega 3's prevent dehydration and hold the moisture in your cells keeping them strong and also helps to calm irritated skin. 

4. Hyaluronic Acid. Look for Hyaluronic acid in your products. This is a substance that is created in small doses in our body. It attracts moisture, and bonds with water giving the skin instantaneous moisture when in contact with this serum. It also increases collagen production, which will help with the prevention and reduction of aging. This is available in a serum form, or you can find it as an ingredient in moisturizers.

5. Tea Tree Itchy Scalp Relief. If you suffer from a dry winter scalp that is flaking and itching, you can create your own scalp scrub using tea tree oil, a carrier oil and sugar.  Mix granulated sugar, a few drops of tea tree oil and a few teaspoons of a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil and gently rub the scalp. Tea tree oil is antifungal and antibacterial and will help to kill the bacteria that is causing the dandruff. Also, limit the amount you wash your hair during the week. If you can skip shampoos it will help the scalp from loosing its natural oils.  

If you love to drink dehydrating teas and coffees during the winter to keep warm, switch to caffeine free green tea. It actually helps hydrate the body. If you don't like green tea, make a detoxing tonic using hot water, lemon, honey and some cinnamon. 

DIY: Cinnamon and Honey Mask

There's nothing I love more than a mask that I can create from my kitchen cabinets. I completely agree with the saying "If you can't eat it, why would you want to put it on your skin?." It is true, everything we put on our body gets absorbed through our bloodstream, so why not use the purest, most natural healing ingredients we can find? And what is more convenient than using everything you already have at home? This happens to be my favorite secret remedy to clearing acne, brightening the skin and lightening acne scars. 

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

Small bowl
Small spoon or spatula for mixing
Cinnamon powder
Raw honey or preferably manuka honey
Oil of your choice, I suggest manuka oil, coconut oil or jojoba oil

LET'S CREATE:

Mix 1 teaspoon of honey with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon and add 5 drops of oil. (If you don't have a dropper eyeball it) but don't use too much, the honey warms up with your skin and will start to drip while it is on  so make sure it isn't too runny, if you need to put in the fridge for a few minutes to get the right consistency, go for it) It should be a thick paste from the cinnamon. If it isn't thick enough, add more cinnamon. Cinnamon can be irritating to sensitive skin types, so test this mask first on a small spot before you apply it to your whole face. The oil helps heal the irritation. DO NOT rub or scrub your skin while this is on your face. Simply let it sit and do its job. You can leave it on anywhere for 30 mins to 3 hours.

WHY IS THIS MASK SO GREAT? 

Cinnamon has been used for decades to plump the skin, bring oxygen and blood to the surface of the skin. It is also used as an antimicrobial and antiseptic. It is really great for those suffering with acne or acne scarring because it is also said to lighten the pesty acne scars that linger forever after your stubborn acne heals. It also helps to dry up sebum on the skin and therefore, drying acne. The coarse granules in the cinnamon actually facilitate exfoliation which makes this mask a two in one deal. :) 

Honey is also antibacterial. It is great for healing the skin and it keeps it moist. 

I like to add the oil because it helps aid in mixing the cinnamon with the honey but it also adds extra moisturizing benefits to the skin and helps prevent over irritating the skin with the cinnamon. 

Remove the mask with a warm washcloth. To don't scrub. Gently remove the mask and apply your moisturizer or oils. Sleep and wake up refreshed and glowing. 

Organic, Dairy-Free Banana Oat Muffins...

One of the biggest challenges with going dairy free is not being able to eat sweets once in a while. I actually don't have much of a sweet tooth but on occasion I crave banana bread or pumpkin bread or a piece of dark chocolate. So, I decided to whip up a recipe that would satisfy my sweet tooth and my diet, while of course keeping healthy clear skin. I actually enjoyed these much more than the dairy versions. They tasted lighter and less greasy, and they are perfect for the start of fall.

You can substitute anything here for a different ingredient that you prefer or feel free to use chopped nuts or raisins...etc.

Makes: 12 muffins
Cook time: 25 mins
Prep: 15 mins

Ingredients:

•  1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour

•  1/2 cup organic raw sugar

•  1/2 cup organic quick oats

•  1 t. baking powder

•  1 t. baking soda

•  1/2 t. salt

•  1 t. pumpkin pie spice

•  1 t. cinnamon

•  3 bananas (preferably ripened or over-ripened) 

•  1 organic grass fed egg

•  1/3 cup coconut oil

•  1/3 cup honey

•  1/8 cup organic pure maple syrup

•  1/4 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk

•  1 t. lemon juice

•  2 t. vanilla extract

sliced almonds for garnish (optional) 

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F, line muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, oats, pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon and salt. Set aside. In another mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, egg, coconut oil, almond milk, and honey, syrup, vanilla and lemon juice until well mixed. Add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing until just combined.
3. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, allow to cool on a rack before serving.

DIY Organic, All Natural Toner...

Most people underestimate the importance of a toner in your daily skin care routine, that is, if you even have a routine (which I hope you do!). There are a lot of benefits to a toner that can really change and improve your skin when used regularly. Washing your skin repeatedly can strip it from it's natural oils, causing overproduction of oil from dryness, and can leave residue behind that can actually aid in clogging your pores. Toner rebalances the skin to it's natural PH. The skin should be slightly acidic, moist and supple. I prefer to use my own version of toner so I know there are no superficial additives that are not working to benefit my skin in any way. All you need are three ingredients you most likely have lying around the house, if not, it is a cheap fix. Here is a list of what you will need.

• Organic*** Green Tea (must be organic, super important) with no additives of fruit or anything else. Just plain organic green tea.
• Witch Hazel
• Organic*** Apple Cider Vinegar (must be organic, preferably braggs, should have pieces floating in it which is completely normal and even more beneficial) 
• Tea Tree Oil (optional)
• Vitamin e Oil (optional) 

To make the toner you will need equal parts, organic green tea, organic apple cider vinegar and Witch Hazel. Mix together in a small jar. I used a 1/3 of each. Then I added 6 drops of Tea Tree oil and I broke open two vitamin e capsules and squeezed the oil into the bottle. Shake vigorously so all the oils mix in well. Squeeze on a cotton ball and apply to face or if you used a spray bottle you can spray it onto the face as well. I like to refrigerate mine because I think it is refreshing but you don't need to refrigerate, it will not go bad. I definitely recommend adding some oil, whether it is vitamin e oil or manuka oil, grapeseed, coconut or evening primrose oil. The apple cider vinegar is very strong and the oil is a nice balance. You can also use rose water as an addition. 

Now that you have made your toner, you may be thinking: why those ingredients?Well, here is an overview of the benefits of each ingredient and why they are so useful in treating acne.

Organic Green Tea // I may be biased because I adore green tea. I think it is the cure all for almost everything. It is packed with antioxidants, anti-aging and great for acne, since it provides anti-inflammatory benefits. It even protects the skin to some degree from UV rays. 

Organic Apple Cider Vinegar // Ahhh another ingredient I swear by. ACV is an amazing product, not only to ingest but used topically. It is antibacterial, helps to fade acne scars, and helps to cut down on excess oil. Very beneficial to anyone suffering from acne.

Witch Hazel // Is a very soothing ingredient, it's a strong anti-oxidant and astringent. It helps remove dirt and oil and balance the oil production of our skin. I personally hate the way it smells so the green tea helps mask that :)

Tea Tree Oil // Is an antiseptic, and anti-fungal. It is a great product to use for acne but should never be used at its full strength it can cause the condition to worsen by extremely irritating the skin and infection.  A few drops is plenty for this powerful oil. 

Vitamin e Oil // Vitamin e oil has been know to provide many benefits to the skin. It greatly helps diminish acne scars, and stretch marks (throughout the body), it has great antioxidant properties and helps fight against sun damage, aging and free radicals.