Polish your skin

Polish your skin
Smooth skin all winter long!

Friday, October 22, 2010

Nail Polilsh that lasts

Q. I heard about a new nail polish that will last for 14 days, is that for real?

A. Yes, there is a new technology in the market for super long lasting nail polish. It’s really a nail treatment and polish combined. Several companies are promoting a version of this treatment. The version I like the most is made by a company called Creative Nail Designs. They call their product Shellac for nails. It is a combination of gel and polish, but it goes on thin and smooth like a polish. You don’t use this product to lengthen the nail. It is available in colors and a French style pink and white combination. I like this company’s version best because it goes on just like polish, really does last a long time and stays shinny and smooth the entire time it’s on. It also comes off very easily and quickly when it’s time to remove the color. The science behind the product uses a monomer and a polymer, much like gel nails but it is free of formaldehyde, toluene or DBP and is hypo-allergenic. The company boasts that the product has 14 day wear time, zero dry time, is off in minutes, has a mirror finish, and does not chip or smudge. That is the hype; I personally found all of it to be very accurate except the wear time. For some people 14 days is realistic. Others, who are harder on their nails, should expect about 10 days... still a really long time for polish to last and stay looking great! It is not available for home application and must be put on by a trained professional. I love this new product. I recommend it often. It’s especially great for brides who what perfect looking nails and who are often leaving right away for a honeymoon. The polish will last the whole time and stay picture perfect. This also makes it great for anyone going on vacation. At our spa we only charge an additional $10 for the shellac polish so it’s worth it for anyone who wants to keep that “fresh from the spa” look on their nails for 10 to 14 days! Its great when something new really does live up to the hype. This product is does.

Monday, October 11, 2010

End of Summer Skin

Q. Is there anything to know about the end of summer and skin? I always feel like mine is kind of dry at this time.

A. I have found that the most forgotten skincare element in the fall is sun protection. Just because the summer is over and the beach and pool are not on the list the sun is still out. Many young children have recess during school days between 10AM and 2PM, the worst time of day for the sun. Mornings may be cooler in the fall but the afternoon is often very sunny. Adults forget about sun protection once the summer is over too. It’s very important to remember. Dry skin is often the result of over exposure to the sun. If your summer was full of outside events your skin may be dehydrated. Take my first bit of advise and protect it from additional sun exposure then follow this routine for repair of overstressed summer skin: Cleanse twice a day with a mild cleanser, exfoliate at least once a day with a mild exfoliate, follow up with a great moisturizer after each cleansing, apply sun protection in the daytime. You can also help combat over stressed dry skin by avoiding really hot showers and opting instead for mild warm showers. If you work out at a gym or you have an active lifestyle be sure to wash your face as soon as possible after getting sweaty. Don’t forget to use a mild soap. Drink a lot of water and eat a diet high in fruits and veggies. If you can get in to see an esthetician for an end of summer facial your skin will really benefit. A good end of summer facial should include an advanced exfoliation and a treatment masque. Your professional should also recommend a home routine customized to your specific skin care needs. Take care of your skin, some damage once done can not be reversed and you are going to have to wear your skin every day of your life!