Makeup Faves

Makeup is a huge contributor to skin conditions and problem skin. As a Master Esthetician, it is my job to find makeup that can cover up any skin imperfections, and also help treat the skin conditions and concerns. It's hard to find an entire line that can be beneficial to your skin, but amazingly enough there are a few choices.

As with any other high quality skincare product, quality makeup is not cheap. However, it will do wonders for your skin.

A few great skincare lines that are organic or professional grade (and better for your skin), and will be beneficial to the health of your skin is TRUE Beauty, Jane Iredale, and YoungBlood.
Here are a few of my favorites.

Powder Foundation:

Foundation Options

I absolutely LOVE this company. TRUE BEAUTY is a completely organic company that is so pure you could actually eat the products! My motto is 'If you can't eat it, why would you put it on your face?'.

This powder allows enough coverage without making you look cakey. One of the features I love most is the coloring options. In the winter,  I wear Medium 2, and in the summer, I just bump it up a shade and it matches my skin perfectly to a Tan 2. This helps to eliminate the line on the chin, and it definitely won't leave you looking like an Oompa Loompa.

The Powder also has Idebenone in it, which is a healing agent that helps the skin recover from chemical peels, or sun damage.

Added bonus? When I use my St Tropez tanning mouse I can wear my Tan 2 and not have any problems.

Bronzer:

Bronzer/Shimmer

This is a two in one bronzer that has bronzing and blush all in the same compact.

Blush:

Purchase here

Because True is a completely organic company, it has been milled 100 times more than other product meaning the pigment is more condensed, using less product and making the product last longer. This is especially beneficial for blush and bronzer.

Brow Kit:

Brow Definer Kits

OK, I have absolutely crazy brows, so I need a good brow kit. The TRUE kit comes with two colors to choose from to match your brows, AND a tinted wax to help keep your hair in place. I have learned to LOVE filling in my brows, making them seem thicker without applying a growth serum, and making them look complete.

Lipstick:

Gone are the days of wearing chapstick and lips the same color as your foundation. Bright lips and subtle eyes are trending, and it isn't always easy to find a good lip color for you. Sometimes, the bright lips aren't just what I'm feelin' so I've posted a few of my favorite neutral colors and a bright one.

Purchase Sunny Seoul by MAC

Purchase Hue by MAC

Purchase Lickable by MAC

Purchase Mac Red by MAC

Questions, Comments, or Suggestions? Have a topic you want covered? Leave me a comment!

XOXO 

Andrea

Chemical Peels: FAQ

As I begin to gain more clients for eyelashes, the exposure and questions about chemical peels begin to arise. So I've compiled a list of some of the Frequently Asked Questions about chemical peels.

What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel is a form of deep exfoliation, and can help drive beneficial ingredients into the skin to help with skin concerns each client has.

Does the chemical peel hurt?

There are several levels of chemical peels. I like to see it as running a marathon. You don't jump into a race without training and preparing your body for something that intense. It's the same concept with your skin. So, we like to start training your skin in order to achieve the ideal skin condition for each client. The smaller chemical peels, the peels with a higher PH, do not give the warm sensation that some of the bigger peels give.

Who needs a chemical peel?

Anyone and everyone can have a chemical peel! From age 14 and up, all skin types and conditions can benefit from chemical peels. However, as mentioned above, all clients will need to be worked up to the large peels, with lower PH levels, driving the chemical peel deeper. If you have any specific skin conditions you would like addressed and taken care of such as acne, mild breakouts, dry skin, pigmentation, pregnancy mask, or blackheads, chemical peels would be a great place to start.

Can I come and get a series of peels and my skin will be perfect?

No. Chemical Peels can do wonders, when combine with the correct skin care regimen and quality products. Many clients don't understand that my job consists of 20% of the results, where home regimen, diet and nutrition are 80%. Amazingly enough, your Esthetician will be able to tell if you are doing your part of the work, so don't try to beat around the bush.

How often can I get a chemical peel?

Chemical Peels can be performed once every two weeks. As mentioned above, chemical peels are a form of exfoliation and it is dangerous for your skins health to over-exfoliate and receive chemical peels too often.

What are some restrictions I have when I get a chemical peel?

This is one of the most important parts - the aftercare. After a chemical peel, it is advised you refrain from exercise for the first 24-48 hours, as well as stay out of the sun, wear a good sunscreen, and avoid exfoliating and washing with harsh cleansers.

What are some benefits of receiving a chemical peel?

Besides a natural glow, a chemical peel will make your face softer, can drive beneficial ingredients into your skin, aiding in cell turnover rate with acne, killing bacteria, driving hydration into dry skin, and helping with pigmentation issues. You will leave with your skin feeling refreshed, smooth, and clean.

Have more questions? leave a comment below, I would love to answer any questions or concerns you have in regards to peels, after all, they are one of my favorites!

Individual Rivalry

Hey all!

It's been a while since a post has gone up, but that's because I've been crazy busy with appointments! I've had a lot of questions with Eyelash Extensions and wasn't quite sure what the best way to answer some of those questions was... Enter Individual Rivalry.

Individual Rivalry is one incredible blog, featuring two young moms that are focused on bringing women together, instead of focusing on competing with each other. They find anything and everything to help women out! It's so inspiring I can't contain my excitement about this great opportunity to work with them.

Anyways, we made a video about do's and don'ts of lash extensions. You can find that video here. If you have any other questions or comments, send them my way! I would love to address your concerns about lash extensions!

PS Make sure you are following Individual Rivalry on their blog and Instagram! They're one amazing team!

Follow Individual Rivalry HERE

Style Seat

Usually, clients can txt or call me personally to make an appointment and things have gotten a little hectic lately. So, I decided to enlist in the help of Style seat. This website will allow you to book appointments with me, and list when I am available. That way, you can schedule an appointment that fits your schedule! You can book an appointment by clicking on the BOOK ME button on the right hand side of the blog!

Choosing the correct skincare

Wondering how to find a quality skin care product? Here are a few hints. 

1. If you can get it at Walmart, Target, or other grocery store, it isn't good. Why? Because the companies make mass quantities and water down their product a lot. Although you may see beneficial ingredients listed, they aren't used in the appropriate quantity. 

2. If you can get a booklet of some sort or go to a meeting for your skin care, and call and order from your 'rep' (someone that is selling for the company, but has never gone through any actual skin care related training) it isn't good for you. Why? Same reason as above. Although they are 'higher quality' because they are not available in stores, they still pose the same reasons as to why you shouldn't be using that line. Also? You may have an issue, but don't know the underlying problem of why you have the skin condition you do. A rep will simply pick the product that is 'most expensive' or take a guess as to what your problem is and recommend a product. Also, you may see results at first, which is great, but they don't have any long term benefits- so once you stop using the product, your skin may go back to its original state. The products don't ever fix the issue- they just cover them up.

3. Department stores- Clinique, Estee Lauder, Bare Minerals, Clarins and Lancome are a lot better for you than any product you can get at a drug store, but it still isn't the best for you. A lot of the department store products are sold by people that are not specifically educated or trained in skin care and therefore cannot correctly suggest the right product for you and your skin type. So, you may be using a product that is harming your skin, and resulting in little or no changes. Therefore, its just wasted time and money!

4. Salons and Spas- this is definitely the best place to purchase your skin care product. Why? Spas and Salons are not allowed to hire anyone that is not licensed as a professional. Apposed to receptionists, everyone in a spa is a licensed Master Esthetician or Basic Esthetician! Products sold here are not readily available to you and they may suggest getting a facial before your purchase so they can evaluate your skin, and talk to you about some of your skin concerns.

You be the judge, but I would suggest saving your time and money, and finding a quality spa to visit, talking to an esthetician, and finding the right skin care products to help the aging process along!

Nerium: get rich quick or miracle cream?

As a master esthetician, I have learned to do my research before using and potentially purchasing a product. Nerium has been one of the miracle creams recently surfacing, claiming to lighten surface spots, restore skin glow, and eliminate fine lines and wrinkles. Many middle aged women are aiming to improve their skin and willing to try anything! So, when they hear Nerium is made straight from the Nerium Oleander plant, it seems legit, and it was under excessive research so it must be real! Wrong. Nerium Oleander is an extremely toxic and potentially deadly plant that can cause dermatitis, red, inflamed skin, heart failure, etc. I found this information from a former ER physician, which can be read for yourself here. 

Nerium was discovered as researchers were looking for a cure for cancer and found it kills your cells. Sounds great if you are killing my cancer cells, but on my face? No. It may give the appearance of results, but there isn't any long-term benefits. Find more information on the testing, toxicity, science and results of Nerium Oleander here.

First, if you are truly concerned about your skincare, and the conditions of your skin, you shouldn't be purchasing skincare products from a friend that is a stay-at-home mom with no knowledge or background of the skin or its structure. Now, in no way am I knocking stay-at-home moms- they are the hardest working individuals. However, if you truly have skin concerns and want to improve your skins health, wouldn't you go to a professional and get their opinion? Skin care professionals are trained and knowledgable about your skin and the concerns you may have and are looking to improve.  Second, if you do not do your research with each product and the ingredients, you are harming your skin, and the outcome! Large companies are currently advertising 'miracle products' that claim to clear acne, help with aging and pigmentation spots, and help iron our wrinkles. In reality? The products have ingredients in them that aren't right for your specific skin type, and can thicken the skin, making it appear clear and free of pigmentation issues. However, when you do get on a good skin care regimen, the issues and concerns will surface, as they are past issues being exposed because they weren't fixed, just covered. Third, there isn't a quick fix for ANYTHING. If you are looking to improve your physical appearance, you can't just go on a diet, lose 30 pounds, then go back to your old eating habits and maintain the same body you had while dieting. You have to change your eating habits and lifestyle. It's the same with skincare- if you want to improve the health and appearance of your skin, you need to start with the basics. A great skincare regimen and healthy diet is essential when trying to improve your skin. With good skincare, a skin care professional can help analyze your skin, address the concerns you have, and suggest products that will benefit you and improve your skins condition.

Now, I'm sure your thinking, well my friends use it and they say it works, regardless of what an LME may think. That's the get-rich-quick part. The company was creating by a man known for MLM and claims you can make thousands by working from home. All you have to do is get at least three people to sign up and purchase the product monthly and you will receive your product for free. Sound too good to be true? Use your gut instincts- myself? I wouldn't touch that stuff with a 10-foot pole.

This goes for anything you are trying. Read and research. Don't just listen to a sales pitch and watch a tv advertisement and think it has to be true. Its always good to do research. We are in the age of technology, do searches for products and also for the ingredients in the products. 

Microdermabrasion FAQ

What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a deep exfoliation through the use of micro crystals that sweep across the skin, removing dead skin cells, and creating a youthful glow. One session is beneficial while a series of sessions may result in beautiful skin while eliminating pigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, blackheads, dry skin, stretch marks, and more.

What are some of the benefits of Microdermabrasion?

Youthful glow: through microdermabrasion, dead skin cells are swept away, revealing fresh, youthful skin that will leave you feeling clean.

Comfortable: your esthetician will do all the work, while you relax and enjoy the benefits and feel of a microdermabrasion treatment. This is a less abrasive, deep exfoliation that requires little to no down-time post-care.

Instant Results: Because a microdermabrasion is an in-house procedure, you will be able to see results instantly after receiving the treatment. This is a fast-acting treatment and you will be able to see and feel the results.

Improved Product Penetration: One of the reasons microdermabrasion can be so beneficial, is it increases the penetration of product, resulting in less product needed and a noticeable difference in the skin.

What are some of the long-term benefits of microdermabrasion?

Clean Pores: each procedure helps to decrease the size of your pores, resulting in a flawless look. It also helps with acne and reducing excess oils.

Smoother Skin: Because it is a form of exfoliation, a microdermabrasion session will leave your skin baby soft with a clean, refreshed feel free of blemishes, pigmentation, and fine wrinkles.

Reduce Scarring and stretch marks: often after having a baby, women have stretch marks they are often not proud of. A combination of microdermabrasion, which breaks down the skin cells, and body wraps will reduce and possibly eliminate stretch marks. Each treatment can also break down the scar tissue in scars, reducing the appearing of harsh scars.

I have attached a video of how a typical Microdermabrasion treatment goes- please note this video is not a personal video, and is one I found beneficial to use on my blog from YouTube.

Video HERE

Tip of the Day- Dry Lips

Dry lips:

Living in Utah, you may experience the dry, flaky lips we all know comes  with each winter. Lip color is big this season and it doesn't exactly look smooth with the flaky, cracked winter lips. So, here's your tip of the day.

Use an old mascara wand to exfoliate your lips. Skin on your lips is often neglected due to the different pigment, but your lips need to be pampered too! Every 3 days, exfoliate your lips with an old mascara wand. If you don't have on handy, head to your local beauty supply store and purchase a pack of 10 for under $5. Gently rub the wand against your dry lips before bed, following with a quality chap stick. Also, make sure you are drinking your required daily amount of water to keep yourself hydrated during the winter season- we are often dehydrated but unaware because we are always cold and don't think about our need of water.

Corrective Skin Care

It's October! The leaves are changing, the smell of football season is in the crisp, cool air, and it is finally the right time to start correcting your skin! Through out the years, sun damage, free radicals, acne, and the environment/pollution have all taken a toll on our skin. We all want the beautiful, glowing skin we see on models and movie-stars. Why not take the time to achieve it? We are just leaving the summer months- months of being at the pool, wake-boarding at the lake, going on road trips, and even doing some yard work. Now is the perfect time for a deep exfoliation- a chemical peel.


Let's start with Free Radicals- what the heck are they? If you want a deep understanding, click here. Long story short, they are the molecules that don't have a buddy and can cause damage to your skin. How do you prevent free radicals from damaging your skin? Antioxidants! Antioxidants can be introduced to the skin in a number of ways- proper skin care, and chemical peels. Antioxidants are good for the body, so of coarse they are great for the skin. They give the skin the needed vitamins it needs in order to protect itself from free radicals in the atmosphere. Where do you get such antioxidants? A great skin care regimen and chemical peels.

Sun damage- this has been huge in the media as of late. It's a constant broken record of 'stay out of the sun', 'wear a good sunscreen', 'wear a hat'. But what happens when you didn't do any of those things and now you have freckles, brown spots, age spots all over your face? You guessed it- A chemical peel can help with that! Along with a great skin care regimen, a chemical peel can help lighten the brown spots you have on your face that can become cancerous. A chemical peel can also help with the cell turnover rate increasing your skins nutrition and increasing the anti-oxidants your skin receives.  Obviously I'm not here to treat cancer, so if you have a questionable spot, please, go see a dermatologist!

Acne- most of us had acne some point in our lives. Whether it be a smaller grade that consisted of black heads and minor pustules, or if it was deep, cystic acne that oozed puss upon movement of the skin. This is one of the primary reasons I wanted to get into skin care. I suffered from acne has a teenager, resulting in acne scars on my forehead. These weren't the regular white scars- they were red and purple- popping out like a sore thumb. After visiting a dermatologist, I was told to use 3 different prescriptions- none of which completely cleared up my skin without harsh side-effects- i.e. sensitivity to sun, upset stomach, bleaching clothing and sheets. It not only scarred my skin, but it also took a toll on my self confidence. I have a niece who at the time was 17 when I decided to get into esthetics. She had grade 2 acne- numerous pustules all over her face, blackheads, and scarring. She was very unhappy. I wanted so badly to help her. Little did I know, a series of chemical peels, along with a skin care regimen fit for her skin type, would help rid her skin of acne scars, and clear up her zits- resulting in a tremendous decrease of acne and smooth skin.

Now, obviously I have given three separate situations as to why you would want to receive a chemical peel. I wanted to add my own personal experience with chemical peels. As I went through the courses of basic and master esthetics, I received numerous chemical peels, microdermabrasion, non-surgical face lifts, facials- you name it, I had it. It was the last chemical peel of the class- we experience each and every chemical peel we perform in order to relate with the client- I had a 'mac daddy peel'. Of coarse this peel you have to prepare for- being on a solid skin care regimen, having had numerous chemical peels prior, I was prepped and ready for the TCA. After receiving the most painful peel of my life, my skin was tight. The next few days, I would feel like a monster. My skin began to crack- sheets of skin peeling off my face- but then something came to my attention. There were a few dark spots on my left jaw line I never noticed. Having been scared to death by my instructor of possible scarring if you pick at the skin, I left it alone. By the end of the week, my skin became 'baby' smooth, flawless. No freckles- scarring was eliminated. I noticed the dark spots on my jaw line were gone. It turns out, as I went through the esthetics course, I developed a few zits on my jaw line- they were under the skin- un-poppable. The dark spots were scars left from the zits that had been brought to the surface and peeled off. Bottom line, chemical peels can help enhance the look and condition of your skin. A similar chemical peel pulled sun damage from my husband cheek we never knew was there!

Does everyone peel from chemical peels? Absolutely not. Depending on which peel you have, and what you are aiming to achieve with your skin, chemical peels can drive hydration into dry, sun damaged, tired skin, increase vitamins in acneic skin, and even give you a bright glow.

Since it is the beginning of 'skin care season', I decided to have my monthly specials centered around corrective skin care. Below are the specials I am offering for the month. Don't be afraid to post a comment if you have any questions! Chances are, someone else has the same question. Anyway,
welcome to fall! I hope to see you in my spa soon!

Introduction to corrective skin care:      $60

This includes:
Client consultation
Mini-Facial
Chemical peel based on clients skin


Corrective skin care package:                $80

This includes:
introduction to corrective skin care package
One cleanser and One moisturizer recommended by esthetician


Glowing Skin Care Package:                 $100

This includes:

Corrective skin care package
One additional chemical peel based on clients skin


Elite Skin Care Package:                        $150

This includes:

Client consultation
Series of 3 chemical peels
3 products to take home based on recommendations from esthetician
20% off next service booked at time of appointment

Master services added!

It's official! I have received my license in Master Esthetics and I am able to add new services to my menu! I am so excited as this will really expand my business and hopefully I will have at least one service that appeals to everyone!

Below are the services that have been added. Thank you all for your love and support as I build my business from the ground up.

M'lis body contour wrap   $50
      Different than those you may have previously heard of, Contour body wraps are designed to aide in weight loss due to slowing of the lymphatic drainage system. This may be used for inch loss, or is the final step of a detoxification program focused on health and wellness.  Lose up to 14 inches!

Chemical peel prices range from $45-$80 
     Chemical peels of all ranges have been added to the menu in order to appeal to every skin type possible. Whether you have dry, dull skin that is lacking its initial glow, or you may have a few breakouts and are looking to speed up the healing process, the new chemical peels are the answer! Combine with a great skin care regimen, they will completely transform your skin and allow you to have the beautiful, flawless skin you always desired. The type of chemical peel performed will be determined after a thorough client consultation and possible 2 week skin regimen preparation.


Back facial      $45
       Whether you are looking for some help with impurities on your back or just need an hour to relax, this is a great treatment. Cleansing, exfoliation, masking and a massage leave you feeling rejuvenated and like a new person.

Body Bronzing    $30

Promoting against sun damage, schedule a body bronze that will leave you with a 'straight from the beach' color!

Waxing    price varies by service

Brazilian:    $60+

Back:      $50+

Chest:     $50+

Extended bikini:     $55+

Codeword: Pumpkins and spice

These are just a few of the services I have added to the menu. Please feel free to contact me for any questions.

Hope to see you soon!

Spa Menu

    Below is the menu I currently have available at my spa. I will be adding new services next week, and     look forward to hearing from you! 

Kahakai Spa is focused on clients overall wellness and health. You will enjoy services such as basic facials, chemical peels, eyelash extensions, and waxing.

Description

Kahakai Spa currently has a variety of services and will be adding more soon. Please let us know what YOU would like to see added to our services.

Facials:

Lomi Lomi facial- Cleansing, skin analysis, exfoliation, extraction of the face, facial massage, masque and moisturize: $40

Kona facial- Cleansing, skin analysis, exfoliation, extraction of the face, pressure point massage, masque and moisturize: $50

Minuke Facial- Great for those who are in a hurry, but also like to be pampered. Cleansing and light exfoliation followed by products customized to your skin type applied to skin. Extractions not included. $30

Waxing:

Brow: $8
Lip: $8
Face/Chin: $8
Nose: $8
Ears: $8
Underarm: $15
Bikini line area: $25+
Half Leg: $30+
Full Leg: $50 +
Lower Arm: $25+
Full Arm: $40+

Eyelash Extensions:

Full set: $75
Fill: 2-3 weeks: $35
4 weeks: $45
After 4 weeks, full set will need to be purchased again.

Chemical Peels: a combination of exfoliation, and superficial chemicals will help bring your natural, glowing skin back to its original state. Chemical peels help slough off dead, hyperpigmented, sundamaged skin to reveal beautiful radiant skin. They will also reduce appearance of fine lines, age spots, and scars. 45 minute treatment $60+. 

Andrea Land
Esthetician
801.389.8334

Best Self-Tanner

I love summer! I love the feel of the sun, I love the activities, and I love the color I get! Up until this year, I was the typical girl- running out in a bikini at every chance I got, slathering on the oil, and laying out for hours on end. I craved the deep bronze color and longed for summer to stay forever. As the fall came, I noticed my tan fading, but didn't want to turn the normal pasty white I normally was every fall and winter. But then I learned about the harm the sun has on your skin and health overall. So when summer came, I didn't run out in my bikini. This year, I found a solution.

St Tropez.

If anyone has ever tried self-tanners, you notice the orange undertones, and the smell. It's always hard to apply considering they come in lotion form, and it takes hours for the tan to develop. You always end up streaky, missing areas, and find yourself in the shower, desperately trying to exfoliate that ugly color off before someone sees you as an Oompa Loompa. This one is different.

St Tropez has an OLIVE undertone. Ever seen the beautiful Italian or Brazilian models with the flawless tan? They have OLIVE skin. With the olive undertone, St Tropez leaves EVERYONE with a gorgeous, straight from the beach tan that doesn't leave you orange and streaky. How do you avoid streaks? The tanning mousse is suggested to be applied using a mitt that gives a visibly even application.

The smell is more attractive as well! A hint of fresh laundry helps to even out the smell of the self tanner.

How to apply:

For best results, apply after exfoliation!

Tan on clean, dry skin without moisturizer

Shake St Tropez well before use

Apply two squirts of mousse to mitt

Starting at the ankle, make your way up the leg in long, circular, buffing motion

Continue buffing mousse on remainder of body. Reapply mousse as needed

Wait 5 minutes between layers of application in order to achieve a deeper tan

You can use this product on your face- I suggest using a makeup sponge in order to get a great result without streaking. I would not use this on your face on a daily basis as it may clog pores and cause breakouts.

In order to avoid 'orange' hands or streaking on the hand and foot area, rub mitt over hands, not reapplying mousse before rubbing. Using the remnant mousse on the mitt will help to blend and give a tan, but won't make it look 'fake'.

When finished, you are left with a gorgeous, bronze- straight from the beach tan.

Remember to wait 5 minutes before getting dressed as the tanner can get on clothes.

*Tanner will be removed if you wax
*Tanner lasts as long as 10 days with one application
*One bottle lasts up to 15 applications
*Keep tan fresh by applying twice a week
*Remember to wash out your mitt with antibacterial soap and water, air dry
*If tanner gets on clothes, just throw them in the wash, the color comes out!
*You may notice the 'tan' coming off the first time you shower after a bronze- this is normal. The excess color comes off to remove a nice, even glow that leaves your skin beach sexy.

The best part? It doesn't break the bank, AND, it doesn't hurt your skin! It's a win-win!

Eyelash Extensions FAQ

I've recently had a lot of inquiries about lash extensions. Many seem to have the same concerns so I figured I would write a quick entry on the FAQs of Lash Extensions.

Will they tear out my real lashes? 

If your lash technician was properly trained and has obtained either an esthetics license or cosmetology license, the extension will not pull out your real lash. A lot of the time, when an extension is applied, it is applied to more than one real lash, resulting in a tug, pulling the real lash out. They can also be applied to the eyelid- this is a no-no. It will result in a pain in the eyelid that will not subside until the initial extension is removed. Also, FLARE lashes are not recommended as they are too heavy for the natural lash to hold. 

How long/thick should my extension be? 

Your lash technician should be able to determine how heavy of an extension your natural lash will be able to hold. If they put too heavy/thick of a lash on your natural lash, your natural lash may break, pull, or even droop. This may also be the case with too long of a lash. 

How do lash extensions work? 

Lash extensions are simply that- an extension for your natural lash. The lash technician will apply a thicker, longer artificial lash to your natural lash with a glue that usually holds from 2-4 weeks. After the application, you will be able to go without mascara. 

What is the maintenance? 

Lash Extensions work similarly to hair extensions. The hair grows, and is on a natural growth cycle. This results in lashes naturally falling out, as that is the last part of the process. Typically, women that have a faster growth cycle, between the ages of 15-40, will need a fill every 3 weeks. Older women will not need one as often as their growth cycle has slowed down. Your lash tech should explain to you what the at-home care is and what you need to be doing in order to keep your luscious lashes. 

You can shower, swim, snorkle, tan, and wear sunglasses with them! 

What do I do if I don't want them anymore? 

Your lash tech should have remover on hand for when you are ready to remove the lashes. The remover is applied and after a few minutes, the artificial lash naturally glides off, leaving your natural lash unharmed. Your lash tech can also remove using a technique with tweezers. Please do not try to remove the lashes on your own- baby oil does not work and will only result in twisted lashes that look terrible. 

If you have any questions, please let me know! I would love to add to this entry! Andrea.Land06@gmail.com

Eminence-Handmade Organic Skin Care of Hungary

Wow. Today I had the opportunity to attend a quick introduction course on Eminence- a handmade organic skincare line based out of Hungary. I know, I know. Another company that claims to be organic. But honest, this one really is! Many people are skeptical about using an organic skin care line because they don't think they will receive the benefits or see any results as they would their regular product now, and, let's be honest, the price of organic products is ridiculous. Eminence is a different story.

Quick background: Eminence has property where they grow their own product, and hand cut, squeeze and bottle the ingredients into the jars- without using machines! Seems a little third world, don't you think? NOPE! Hungary is the leader in esthetics education and products in the world! So, naturally this is where Eminence was born. They focus on using organic products that go straight from the vine, to your jar. Majority of the time, you can even see pieces of the fruit such as pulp, skin, even seeds that are in the jar because its that fresh! They don't use large machines or have a machine-line bottling your product. It's individually done but a pro! Not only are the products organic, but the company is too. They utilize energy sources such as windmills and solar power in order to run their business.

Back to my experience. The Eminence rep explained to us some of the main ingredients used in their most effective, and most purchased products. What goes into the products are ingredients we can actually pronounce. Acai Berry, Licorice Root, Stone Crop, Chamomile, Rosemary, Cucumber juice. So, how do they get their products from Hungary to say... Utah without the product going bad? They utilize natural preservatives in order to keep the shelf life- by natural, I mean natural- Lemon, Zinc, Honey. How much more organic can you get?

So why are organic products so beneficial to our skin? Eminence states it is because of the 'cold press'- meaning its similar to the raw food diet but for your face. LOVE IT! With each product series, let's say... with for anti-aging... your Eminence esthetician will suggest a cleanser, exfoliant, masque, and moisturizer for your specific end goal. An added bonus? Vitamins that will help clear your issue from the inside out. I can't think of another company that does that... and organically!

Now, the price? Sheesh. In order to obtain a result-driven product, you should expect to pay around $7-$10 a month. HA! Eminence is right in that range. Their cleansers typically last 3-4 months, so it's actually cheaper than that bar soap you are using in the shower.

I'm hoping to go to a training in May where I will expand my knowledge on the new company. But, if you are interested in any of their products, take a look at the Eminence Handmade Organic Skincare website.

Another addition? Celebrities swear by this skincare line!

Exfoliation

I was recently sitting in a salon, and had someone approach me about skin care- exfoliation in specific. Her main question was 'Why can't I use Apricot Scrub to exfoliate my face?'. As an esthetician, skin care is so important, and knowing the correct skin care, and why we can't use something like this is key to helping your skin.

So, let's start from the beginning.

Why is exfoliation so important?

Your skin has a specific cell turn over rate which means your skin develops new skin cells over a certain period of time. If you do not slough your skin of the dead skin cells, it will build up, often clogging your pores and causing skin damage. So, exfoliate!

How do I pick the right exfoliant?

You will want an exfoliant that is very mild on the face. If your exfoliant scrub has beads larger than a grain of sand, chuck it! Those will be too harsh for your face. For younger, less damaged skin, use a larger bead exfoliant. I like to use The Ultimate Scrub, which I carry in my spa. I exfoliate once a week. For older, more sensitive skin, you will want a very fine exfoliant. You will also want to exfoliate more often, 2 to 3 times a week. If you don't want to spend a lot of money, you can simply mix 1/4 tsp Baking soda with water. Apply to face, and massage for one minute, then rinse with water. 

So why not apricot scrub?

The ingredients in the apricot scrub are too large and too harsh for the face. It's a great exfoliant for the heals, elbows, and knees, but for the face you will want a more gentle scrub. Your face is the part of your body everyone sees. You don't wear a shirt over it. You don't wear socks on your face. It is so sensitive and you want to ensure you are using quality products on that area of your body. Using too harsh of products can actually have the reverse effect on your skin- thickening the skin, breaking down your stratum corneum *first layer of your epidermis*, causing permanent skin damage. 

What should I use for my body?

I have made a variety of Pinterest inspired recipes for body exfoliants. Here are a few of my favorites! 

Brown sugar scrub: 

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 TBSP Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

Mix all together and keep in shower. 

You can put in any flavor you want when it comes to the smell of the scrub. 

1 cup Epsom salt

1 tsp grapefruit essential oil 

3 TBSP Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

This is more harsh, so make sure you only use this once every week. 

Want smoother skin after you shave? Exfoliate the day before you shave, this will ensure hairs are fully exposed to the shaver. 

Good luck!