Nic Pick for Stocking Stuffer's

This is one of my favorite products of ALL TIME! I have used Indigo Wild's Zum Bars for over 10 years now and still love the Frankincense and Myrrh collection!  Made with moisturizing Goat's Milk and pure essential oils, this bath bar is superb.  It gives a nice lather (sodium lauryl sulfate free), nice clean feel, and a divine scent to the skin.   Zum Bar's run under $8 dollars and are the Perfect Stocking Stuffer's for this Holiday Season!

Sometimes the best medicine is a smile

It is a gray day in Northern Virginia.  So instead of a product review, I thought I'd share a picture of our Canine Daugther, Sugaree.  This shot makes me smile every time I look at it.  It's one of those days where blasting a smile will help clear away the drear.  Remember the power of a smile.  Pass one along today.  I have found my day uplifted in days passed, just by someone's positive energy blast of a smile.  They are contagious in the best way.  Make an effort today to smile at everyone you see, a stranger, your partner, your children, and coworkers.  Marvel at the power of a smile and the way it moves us all.  :)

Suki Punch

After using up most of my Eminence arsenal, I figured I would give more Suki products a shot. As always I am battling breakouts and thought I'd try the Pure Facial Moisture Balancing product as my daily and nightly moisturizer, along with Suki's Balancing Toner prior to application of the Pure Facial Moisture Balancing. I used this product months ago as my night time treatment but put it aside and to be honest, it got lost in the mess of what is my product closet. Yes, I said closet, not cabinet. I am definately a product fiend and much to my husband's dismay, I overrun our bathroom linen closet with thousands of products. But we got a new shipment of Suki products in at work and I thought I'd give it another try. I purchased another Balancing Day Toner (which I absolutely LOVE) and took a couple samples of a new product called Bio Targeted Purifying Serum that also has the 15% white willow extract in it. After cleansing my skin, I follow with a couple squirts of Balancing Day Toner on a cotton pad and do a nice once around on my entire face. The first couple days I used my samples of the Bio Targeted Purifying Serum after the toner, before the application of the Pure Facial Moisture Balancing product, and I have to say, it packs a mega purifying punch. My hormonal area breakouts cleared up in a matter of days (3-5). I have reviewed the Pure Facial Moisture Balancing product before because it is a little unsettling to use at first. It's a oil based product and dispenses with an eye dropper. Even though I know that all moisturizing creams are a mixture of oil and water, it still makes you second guess if you should do it if you are breakout prone. I will tell you what though, I am a believer now. I will admit it has taken my skin about a month of this dedicated Suki only regimine to balance out into the beauty that it is now. After using a 15% white willow toner and serum, I started to unclog and resurface my skin, revealing and opening my pores. For the first couple weeks I felt my blackheads were more prominent but in fact these products were clearing up the dead dry layer that was trapping these suckers!! I exfoliated with a sample of the exfoliate foaming cleanser then followed with a good extraction session. I can't believe the difference now a month later in my congestion status. I have NO active pustules and my blackheads have improved significantly. Dare I say it, never has my skin responded like this even to my beloved Eminence daily Products. I will admit, that the Eminence Masques are unbeatable but I may be a new rave reviewer on the Suki Products for daily care. I use only two drops of the Pure Moisture Balancing and it covers my entire face. My mineral makeup glides right on after my morning application and I feel sets it even better that my Eminence Eight Greens did!

So now let's break down what is in this Pure Facial Moisture Balancing product. First off, it is what it says....It is a PURE, breathable, normalizing oil concentrate. It's very simple and pure in the ingredient list.
The list is as followed:

 simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, vitis vinifera (grape) seed oil, helianthus annuus (sunflower) oil, oryza sativa (rice) bran oil, borago officinalis (borage) seed oil, corylus avellana (hazelnut) seed oil, anthemis nobilis (chamomile) flower oil, lavendula angustifolia (lavender) flower extract, tocopherols mixed (vitamin e), calendula officinalis (calendula) flower extract, chamomilla recutita (matricaria) extract & squalene, echinacea purpurea (echinacea) extract, lavendula angustifolia (lavender) oil, matricaria chamomile (chamomile) oil, *aroma/fragrance, linalool *component of 100% pure essential oils

Your skin is made up of oil. Over stripping and drying out the skin causes it to overproduce oil in response. Using Pure Facial Moisture Balancing actually normalizes oily skin because it has the right blend of sebum / skin mimicking properties. It's a calming, soothing antibacterial oil based product that absorbs quickly and does not leave the skin greasy at all. It has a nice light lavender scent and does not over power your senses. I love this product and with the help of the other Suki Products I have been using along with it, I have seen some amazing results.

Fighting Hormonal skin with THIS....

Eminence Organics has this little hormone-induced breakout fighter serum that I have been using as my daily moisturizer during this HEAT wave of a summer. Having put aside my beloved Suki Balancing Day Lotion for fall and winter, I needed to use something that would help keep my skin clear, feel light, and have no adverse effects from sun exposure. I purchased Eminence Organics Eight Greens Youth Serum and the Eight Greens Whipped Moisturizer to try. Both products have a nice, and for lack of better word, herby scent. I am pretty impressed so far.

The concept behind the Eight Greens collection is that the main ingredient, Yucca Root, contains phytoestrogens and help balance out women's hormonal imbalance induced skin characteristics (aka: hormonal breakouts along the jawline, chin, and lip area) as well as restore a firmness and overall youthful radiant appearance. Women near their monthly cylce, perimenopausal, or menopausal...anything related to us wonderful women and hormonal changes, can benefit from this collection. After doing more research on the Yucca Root and it's power, I found this Yucca Root has been a treasured root, especially in Native American culture, as an anti-inflammatory and cleansing agent. The main medicinal agent in Yucca is saponin, which is a natural precursor of natural cortisones normally produced in the adrenal glands. Not only does this powerful medicinal root work as an anti-inflammatory, but also it has anti-aging qualities as well. Yucca is very rich in polyphenols as well, which suggest the ability to reduce the effects of aging. According to a piece of research published and done by Life Extension, plant polyphenols prevent tissue damage and block free radicals. The main polyphenol in Yucca is Resveratrol, known for its preventive power of degenerative conditions such as cellular damage. Basically this is one powerful inflammation, protector of cellular damage and breakdown little root.

I found that the Eight Greens Whipped Moisturizer is a little too heavy for such a sweltering hot summer for my skin for day time use. I have been experimenting (this morning actually) on the dilution of this product. All Eminence Moisturizers are concentrated and made for a customized dilution with water, depending on your skin's needs. I used a teeny tiny dab today with about 1-2 TBS water and found it was a good mix, though today is a little more mild than the 100 degree days we have been having here in Virginia the past couple weeks. Before I go to bed has been when I have been using the serum AND the moisturizer. For Day time I have primarily been using 1-2 drops of the Eight Greens Serum and my makeup and SPF powder go on flawlessly, without a heaviness underneath. So until the summer heat subsides, I will continue to use this little gem of a serum as my daily moisturizer/anti-acne treatment and save the whipped moisturizer for my Night Time treatment cream.

Clearly beautiful

This product has become my skin saving product this summer. Eminence launched the VitaSkin Collection a couple months back and I must say, it's pretty amazing. The Clear Skin Masque has been my weekly skin care treatment ,and it has helped me considerably. I had a minor set back in my pore clarity while my husband and I were camping the first week in July, but now it's balancing out beautifully. Since I am out in the sun so much, I've had to cut the use of my BELOVED Suki Balancing Day Lotion because of the high concentration of White Willow Extract (15%). Though it was a miracle at keeping my skin clear, White Willow or Salicylic Acid can cause photo sensitivity and hyperpigmentation when exposed to the sun. Kayaking, hiking, and concert going is our enjoyment of summer, and even though I would apply my Eminence Sun Defense Minerals SPF 30 religiously, I was still starting to develop some new hyperpigmentation spots. So reluctantly I stopped using my Suki, therefore my skin GASPED, pouted and started breaking out again. THEN this Eminence Miracle saves the day.

With the power of Probiotic that attacks bad bacteria that causes breakouts,cooling Cucumber that tones and revitalizes, Kaolin Clay which provides a gentle detox, plus Marigold and Tea tree with their antiseptic properties, this amazing facial masque helps exfoliate and eliminate the signs of acne so your skin will glow with newfound confidence in no time.

How to Use: After cleansing, toning and gentle using an exfoliator to ensure product penetration (I LOVE EMINENCE ROSEHIP AND MAIZE EXFOLIATING MASQUE as my exfoliator), apply a quarter size amount of the Clear Skin Probiotic Masque with a tsp. of water to the entire face. If you have already exfoliated once or twice this week, then skip the exfoliation prior to masking. I personally like to do my exfoliation with my masking treatment and treat myself to a mini facial every week. You will experience a refreshing and soothing cooling sensation a minute or two after application of the masque. Rinse after 20-25 minutes and follow with your toner and daily moisturizer or night treatment cream.

Results are even more dramatic when combined with the VitaSkin Clear Skin Vitamin taken daily. This is a multi-phase release vegan pill designed to regulate and calm your skin with borage seed oil that dilutes sebum, and acidophilus to regulate yeast and reintroduce healthy bacteria to the body.

I have had great feedback from clients about this combo and have first hand experience as a consumer myself. This masque I highly recommend for my acne/breakout prone friends. It feels wonderful to use and actually works. Visit www.eminenceorganics.com for more information over all Eminence's organic products.

Summer Sun Essentials

Glorious Summer is here. Beach time, pool time, concert going, biking, hiking or kayaking, all these activities we wait all winter long to bask in the joys when Mother Nature is smiling on us. While reveling in this wonderful time of the year, don't forget to protect yourself from too much sun and environmental aggressors. Here are a couple of my favorite Summer Sun Essentials!

1. Eminence Organics Sun Defense SPF 30

These beautiful brush-on, easy application and carry Micronized Zinc Oxide Sun Defense Minerals are fabulous for on-the-go Sun Protection. They are available in 5 different shades of minerals pigments and will match most skin types. Not only does it provide an SPF 30, but it also works as an anti-inflammatory, is water resistant, and is hypoallergenic. The easy pump brush is simple to apply and carry anywhere. Definately a new Nic Product Pick.

2. Tropical Vanilla SPF 32 Face Formulation and Body Formulation

This is the most heavenly smelling SPF product I have ever found. The uplifting scent of Vanilla is superb in these products and are more than just smell good sun protectant products. Using the power of Zinc Oxide and Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (a clear liquid compound that absorbs UVB light), Tropical Vanilla SPF 32 products give you great protection from the sun but also help restore the delicate water content in your skin. Studies show that after using the Tropical Vanilla Sun Cream over 7 days,your moisture content increases by 250%!

3. Aloe Mint Hydrating Gel Face Formulation and Body Formulation

This calming and soothing cream gel will help reduce skin irritation and inflammation while fighting against the damaging effects of overexposure to the sun and elements without clogging pores. It has a fabulous refreshing cooling sensation on the delicate skin and is a MUST HAVE for the Summer Season. It is available in a face formulation and a body formulation. If you find yourself a little over kissed by the sun, pick up this beautiful product to calm and soothe your skin.

4. Jane Iredale Foundation with SPF 20

This Foundation is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation and comes in a PurePressed Formulation, Amazing Matte Loose Finish Powder, and also Liquid Minerals. You won't believe the difference their mineral bases will make in how your skin feels and looks. You can apply as lightly or as heavily as you like. Jane Iredale products are free of oil, talc, FD&C dyes, synthetic preservatives or fragrance. Pure Makeup that actually helps the skin, doesnt clog pores, and gives you Sun Protection.

So There you have it, my Summer Sun Goddesses and Sun Gods! Four Fabulous Summer Sun Essentials to accompany all your Summer fun :)

Words that inspire me........

"All glory comes from daring to begin."~Alexander Graham Bell

Rosehip Maize Exfoliating Masque Traditional Series

For my loyal followers, you may have noticed I've written about this particular product before. It is one of my all time favorite Eminence products. I've faithfully have been using the Eminence VitaSkin Clear Skin supplements daily along with masking with the Clear Skin Probiotic Masque twice a week for the past two weeks. This is no exaggeration, my skin has never looked better...never. I've also been using my Suki Balancing Day lotion with Jane Iredale base for my daily protection, and at night Suki's Pure Moisturizing Balancing product. WOW. Really this is a winning combo for me. But I was out of my Rosehip Maize Exfo. Masque that I use not only for an exfoliator, but for also a treatment Masque (though the masking has been replaced with the Clear Skin). Yesterday I purchased the Traditional Series Rosehip and Maize Exfoliating Masque because even though I'm using the Clear Skin Masque, I still need a gentle exfoliator once or twice a week,and of course, had to use it last night. I've never used the Traditional series before (Traditional Series in the Eminence Line means extra rich and easier removal) and I gotta say......I LOVE IT even more than the original version. It has the same beautiful light scent and the maize pieces gently exfoliated my skin to perfection. I left it on for 20 minutes, rinsed with cool water, and followed with my toner and instead of the Suki Pure Moisture Balancing, I used Eminence's Thermal Spring Whipped Moisturizer, which I really liked. My husband sweetly nuzzled me and told me I was beautiful and smelled edible afterwards. It doesn't get better than that :)

So if you are looking for a beautiful gentle exfoliator that will give your skin a healthy glow without harsh chemicals or irritating particles, this product is for you. Even my Rosacea clients!! I promise you that you wont be disappointed. And better yet, leave it on a little longer (20 minutes or so) for a powerful calming treatment masque! It's a two in one zen skin product pick!

Sweet Sweet Rose

One of my new favorite Eminence products right now is the Sweet Red Rose Cleanser. The scent of this product is truly remarkable. Organic Red Rose Petal and Red Rose Juice along with the Red Rose Distillate gives this gentle cleanser a scent so pure and real, I look forward to cleansing with this every single night. It is designed for very sensitive skin and effectively removes impurities without over stripping your vital moisture. It is so gentle I even use it to remove my eye makeup! The milky consistency of this heavenly product feels luxurious and leaves my skin perfectly cleansed and soft. Nothing says spring and summer like the sweet scent of organic rose. Shower yourself in Roses every day.

words that move me........

" Tension is who you think you should be. Relaxation is who you are."-Chinese Proverb

VitaSkin

The new VitaSkin™ Vitamin Solutions Collection is now available at Lofty Salon and Wellness Center! This new collection of Clear Skin, Calm Skin and Firm Skin Vitamin Solutions are designed to address three different skin conditions including anti-aging (Firm Skin), rosacea (Calm Skin), and acne (Clear Skin). These unique formulations work together with organic masque pairings to treat your skin inside and out to maximize results.

The VitaSkin™ Vitamin Solutions Collection has been clinically tested by an FDA certified laboratory and the results are impressive:


50% of users noticed a reduction in the appearance of skin redness in just 14 days with the Calm Skin Solution


86% of users reported an improvement in skin elasticity in just 14 days and 100% of users reported an improvement in skin elasticity and skin firmness in only 28 days with the Firm Skin Solution


75% of users reported a reduction in acne lesions and scars in just 14 days and in 28 days, 100% felt there was a reduction in the number of acne scars



The Calm Skin, Clear Skin and Firm Skin VitaSkin™ Vitamin Solutions for wellness and beauty employ the innovative Moisture Defense System of pill in pill technology to efficiently protect moisture-sensitive ingredients in the delivery through your body. This unique system creates both internal and external barriers to prevent water migration and maintain stability of the ingredients to ensure the delayed release of the nutrients found in the inside capsule. The pills are designed with inherent, natural properties that mimic the microorganisms that live in your intestines. This prevents the need for enteric coating on the capsules which can often contain toxic chemicals or be harmful to the live bacteria held in the pills. The special delivery system keeps the bacteria stable and inactive until they reach the intestines naturally and is safe for consumption for those with dietary limitations, like vegans.

Calm and soothe sensitive, rosacea prone skin from the inside out with our Calm Skin time release capsules rich with flax seed oil and pine bark extract. Pair with the Calm Skin Arnica Masque for polished and smooth skin.


Say goodbye to problem skin and hello to a radiantly clear complexion with our new clarifying solution. The Clear Skin vitamin capsules are enriched with borage seed oil, acidophilus, zinc and nutraflora which work together with the Clear Skin Probiotic Masque to reduce the signs of acne and calm the skin.

Both the Firm Skin vitamins and Firm Skin Acai Masque are designed to improve skin elasticity and generate skin that boasts the appearance of fewer fine lines and wrinkles. The key ingredients, including seabuckthorn, acai, hyaluronic acid and grape seed, help plump and rejuvenate skin to turn back the years for a beautiful, youthful glow.

I must admit......

We have just brought in a new skincare line called Suki. To quote their website:

“We are the first to perfect uncompromising, advanced skin care solutions based upon the physiological equilibrium of natural pharmaceutical grade ingredients immersed in completely pure & organic bases. because our formulas are made from 100% high performance natural, organic, biodynamic & food grade ingredients, they are compatible to work in unison with the body’s natural biological processes.”

As most of you know, I am madly in love with Eminence Organic Skincare so I must admit, at first; I was not overly excited about another skincare line. Suki and Eminence have some similar qualities, but all in all, they are completely different lines……which is good. Nothing, in my opinion, compares to Eminence’s Treatment Masques. They are organic bliss and they truly change and correct the skin without harsh chemicals or additives. Suki only has two masques, and though they are very result oriented, I don’t think they stand up to Eminence’s Masques nor are they as much of a treat to use. I actually have to make myself NOT overuse my Eminence masques, I love them so much. Once or twice a week is the maximum for masking. However, Suki has some products that give Eminence some serious competition. Which brings me to my first Suki Product Review 

I fight adult acne and congestion. Hormones are a big player in the fight so it is an ongoing battle. Using the best, most pure products out there have really helped change my skin. I will admit, while I was getting settled here in Virginia, I didn’t have the wonderful benefit of working at a fabulous Spa anymore, having top quality products at hand for myself, daily. So I skimped a little and tried some over-the- counter products. I’m not knocking over-the-counter products. But since using my beloved Eminence again, and now Suki, I SERIOUSLY see a difference in my skin and in the quality of products. So I’ve been eyeballing Suki’s Pure Moisture Balancing product. I love Eminence’s Blueberry Soy Night Recovery Cream, it is heaven to use and it keeps my skin looking radiant. I ran out of it, so I thought I’d give Suki’s Pure Moisture Balancing product a try. This brings me to the title of this piece…..I must admit, I was a little afraid of it. Why? Because it is an oil treatment……….yes, I said OIL! This is where the science of Suki stands out though. Our skin is comprised of oil…and congestion/acne prone skin types tend to either over strip their natural oil in hopes of clearing the skin, only to overstimulate the sebaceous glands, and produce more oil…adding to congestion or not use a moisturizer because they are misinformed and feel like it will “break them out” to use one. Suki’s Pure Moisture balancing treatment actually mimics our own naturally found oils in our skin and tells the sebaceous glands to “chill out” and not over produce oils that lead to congestion and sometimes manifesting break outs. In conjunction to the Organic Jojoba oil that is used, Echinacea is used and is a natural antibiotic that helps to heal and keep skin clear. Also, organic Chamomile has a serious calming soothing effect on the skin and is one of the key actives in this product. The following is the complete list of ingredients:

organic jojoba (simmondsia chinensis), sunflower (helianthus annus), grapeseed (vitis vinifera), rice germ (oryza sativa), borage seed (borago officinalis) & hazelnut (corylus americano) oils, 100% natural non-gmo vitamin e (tocopherol), organic calendula (calendula officinalis), lavender (lavandula angustifolia), chamomile (anthemis nobilis), echinacea (echinacea purpurea) & rose (rosa canina) extracts, aroma (pure premium steam distilled essential oil)

So I gave it a try. I used one to two drops (at night) after I cleansed my skin and toned. It definitely is unnerving the first time you apply it, even when you have the knowledge that this is a pure wonderful active product. It absorbed quickly and I must say, I LOVED THE WAY MY SKIN LOOKED after applying this product. My pores seemed finer and I had a healthy glow (not oily shine). My skin was not greasy at all! I awoke the next morning and no new pustules, just really pretty skin. I thought to myself, “hmmm, I can’t wait to use it again tonight.” I have used this product now for the past 5 days and I am a converted “oil at night” girl. After all, cream is actually a mixture of oil and water. Our bodies respond better to the pure oil than to a cream and now I am a believer! So FIVE stars to the Suki Pure Moisture Balancing treatment!!! I can’t believe I am going to say this, but you have taken the place of my Blueberry Soy Recovery Cream forever.

Very Cherry (thanks mom)

 The joys of Spring are upon us! Our Daffodils and treasured Cherry Blossoms are blooming with beauty! Eminence has the perfect masque and treatment for this exciting time of the year. Pure Organic Cherry pulp and pieces along with honey, make up this powerful Vitamin C packed mask. It's a perfect Spring treatment for almost all skin types, especially for dehydrated, mature, large pored persons. The delicious scent is almost enough to make you want to taste it. This is my new must have product for Spring! It will leave your skin glowing, super hydrated, and radiant. If you are in the Vienna, VA area, we are running a special for our 90 min. Cherry Blossom facial that showcases this product, for only $100. This promotion is ending at the end of the DC's Cherry Blossom Festival so book your treatment today! http://www.loftysalon.com/ for online booking or call 703.242.0609. Even if you miss this promotion, we can special order you a jar for you to use at home for your weekly masking treatment.

Words that move me

"It is very important to generate a good attitude, a good heart, as much as possible. From this, happiness in both the short term and the long term for both yourself and others will come."

~Dalai Lama

Luscious Pears

The sweet scent of fresh pear washes over me as I apply Eminence's Pear and Poppy Seed Microderm Polisher. This fabulous form of natural manual Mircodermabrasion is a true treat to use. It's more than just a basic scrub! Pear, Poppy, and Walnut seeds in conjunction with Silica act as powerful resurfacers to deeply exfoliate and refine your skin. Green Apple puree and Green Tea enrich the skin with antioxidants and vitamins. This is one of the best manual exfoliation products I have ever used. My skin feels smooth as glass when I rinse this product off and my skin glows. It's very concentrated so you use about a dime size amount with about a tsp. of water to emulsify and work around your entire face gently for 1-2 minutes in circular motions. You should use this product 1-2 times weekly but always remember you can overexfoliate and strip the skin so always follow the recommendation guidelines. Not only does this product remove dead dry layers, but it also allows your following products to penetrate more deeply. I always recommend following your weekly exfoliation treatment with a treatment mask. The skin is perfectly prepped to get the most out of the skin changing possibilities of a facial mask.

Cananga Odorata

I've really been drawn lately to essential oil use and aromatherapy. I begin and end all my facials with the power of this centuries old technique of healing. I believe in it and can truly feel a shift in my mood as I use the different oils. My go-to oils as of late have been to begin with the all-purpose Lavender that induces relaxation and then to awaken and energize with Lemongrass. I absolutely love Lemongrass and fresh Lavender from the garden is hard to beat. I'm feeling the need to branch out and try other not as popular oils either to blend or to use separately to enhance to benefits of these powerful oils. So this brings me to the Cananga Odorata! Ylang Ylang is the essential oil derived from the greenish yellow flowers of this evergreen Asian tree. In the ten years of being an Esthetician, my appreciation has changed for different scents. I did not care much for Ylang Ylang years ago and found that in my essential oil tool kit, I always skipped it. Now I am absolutely drawn to it, loving the exotic, rich, deep fragrance that hints of jasmine and neroli. Not only the scent, but the power it has to wash away anxiety, depression, and to lower blood pressure is inspiring enough to make it a staple in my work. For more information on what this beautiful oil can do for you, check out this website I found highly informative: www.organicfacts.net/heath-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-ylang-ylang-essential-oil.html.

The power of Stone Crop

This beautiful plant is the main ingredient in my new project I am doing at work. Every month I am doing a "Nichole's Product Pick" where I feature my favorite skin care product. As my followers from Indiana may already know because I have such an affinity for this plant, I have chosen the Stone Crop collection before. The stone crop is known by many names, two of which are Sedum or Hens and Chicks. These powerful little beauties are full of healing power and have been used for centuries as a healing plant. Not only are they healing but they also have the ability to help your skin retain vital moisture. Think of it as Aloe but much more powerful. In conjunction with healing and hydrating power, this plant also has what is called tyrosinase inhibitors. Without getting too wordy, tyrosinase is an enzyme that is one of the stimulants of melanin production. A tyrosinase inhibitor "inhibits" the production of melanin, helping fight the development of hyperpigmentation or what is commonly known as sun spots or age spots. So now you see why I absolutely love and believe in the Stone Crop Collection in the Eminence line. It hydrates, it heals, and it fights hyperpigmentation....with the power of organic mother nature.

My current Nichole's Product Pick is the Stone Crop Gel Wash. This wonderful cleanser gently removes impurites and surface build-up on the skin without over stripping your vital moisture. This is very important, especially this time of year when humidity is lower and the environment is harsh. It has a beautiful fresh scent and will make your skin clean and soft. It is perfect for all skin types, especially sensitive skin because along with the other properties I have listed, the Stone Crop plant is an anti-irritant. The only client I caution to use this product are those with tree nut allergies as it does have Shea Butter in it and Shea Butter is a derivative from the nut of the African Shea Tree (Vitellaria paradoxa).

It gets better and better.....

Washed in the fresh refreshing scent of piney eucalyptus, lavender fields, and Camphor....I began my weekly facial with Eminence's Eucalyptus Cleansing Concentrate. I wet my skin with a little warm water, then took about a pea size amount of the gel in my hands with a little water and worked it into a very soft foam. This will not foam a lot like over the counter cleansers that are mostly detergents...this product is pure and sodium lauryl sulphate free. The minty aroma of Eucalyptus is dominant but you do get smell a little lavender undertone. My skin was left feeling tingly fresh and clean.

My skin has cleared up significantly since my last facial so I don't think I need the Almond Mineral Treatment this time, but I still want to do a good exfoliation treatment...... but not as stimulating and oxygenating as the last facial. It was fabulous last time but over-stimulation can actually irritate the skin and inflame. It served it purpose and worked to clear my skin, now I want to keep it clear and free of congestion. I applied a quarter size amount of Rosehips and Maize Exfoliating Masque with a couple drops with water. You want to do that with most Eminence products because they are so concentrated, it helps to emulsify and evenly spread your product. This product instantly soothes the skin with its paste consistantsy and fresh light citrus scent. Maize Flour gently removes dead cells and exfoliates. Honey moisturizes and nourishes the skin. Salicylic Acid evens the complexion and smooths the skin's surface. Zinc oxide is a powerful healing agent and anti inflammatory. I left this on for 5 minutes then rinsed. My skin felt so wonderful...this will become a staple in my home care program. It is especially good for sensitive, irritated, oily, seborrheic or rosacea skin types as it gentle yet provides a perfect exfoliation and calming treatment.

I could have stopped there.....followed with my toner and moisturizer but I had one more product I wanted to try. I am so happy I did. The delicious scent of apples was divine in the Quince and Ice Wine Masque. This is another fabulous mask for Rosacea or seborrhea clients and great for purifying and soothing skin. The Tokay grapes (juice and pulp) used are polyphenol rich and fortify, restore, and treat the skin as a powerful antioxidant. The Quince apple's juice and pulp supply the skin with Vitamin E and purifies and soothes irritated skin and reduces sebum saturation. The polyphenols and tartaric acid found in this mask refines the skin,and Echinacea also works to heal and repair. It goes on as a delicious cream with fruit pulp pieces and tightens as it dries....though if you wish for it to stay creamy, you can keep it moist with a spritz of water or toner. I left this on for 10 minutes (I personally like a mask that tightens ). I then rinsed with cold water and followed with a spot treatment and my Blueberry Soy Night Recovery Cream. If my skin looked good last week after the facial, it looks AMAZING after this treamtent. NO hint of redness, super baby soft, nice and tightened pores with perfectly hydrated skin. My skin feels and looks better than it has in 5 months. I cant wait to use this on my next Rosacea clients or even problem skin.

Almond and Mineral Treatment

I have been going through a little stress and anxiety due to starting my new job. I love it so far....it is an amazingly beautiful space and the people I have met so far have been really wonderful....but it is a new job and I'm starting over from scratch. My skin has suffered because of this. A couple stress blemishes with a couple hormonal blemishes equal an Esthetician with far from perfect skin. So I thought it was appropriate to break out the big guns, so to speak.

Eminence has a treatment called an Almond and Mineral Treatment. This sucker is HOT. It boost circulation to the skin and oxygenates with paprika. It also exfoliates and refines with almond bits. It also contains Ground Ivy which tones and tightens the pores. I cleansed my face first with my Stone Crop Cleanser, then followed with a thin layer of Almond and Mineral Treatment. Right after I applied it, I thought to myself...."this isnt thaaaat hot." It's a creeper. I'd say 2-3 minutes after I applied it the paprika kicked in. In fact, I felt my heart beat in my face. But I knew this would happen and didnt freak out. I knew this was good and it was working. I left it on for about 10 minutes then rinsed with cold water. Oh my did the cold water feel good. My skin was really red from the oxygenation and stimulation but once again, I knew that this was going to be a side effect for 20-30 minutes.

So then my next step was to try an Eminence masque Ive never tried but have a friend out in California that works at a Destination Spa that carries Eminence and SWEARS by the Garlic Tomato products. The Garlic and Tomato Masque is an anti-blemish, clarifying, and healing masque........which is exactly what I need. I was expecting a big whiff of Garlic with this mask but it doesnt have a garlic smell. In fact, the protocol sheet calls it "odorless" (which I was skeptical) but it is in fact, ordorless garlic. It smells more herby and tomato like. Its a puree form with the addition of St. John's Wort which is an anti-irritant and Sweet Yellow Clover which treats acne and is an anti-inflammatory. My skin immediately felt soothed as I applied this masque. I left it on for 10 minutes. It had a nice tightening effect on my skin, which was an added bonus....I like masques that tighten. I rinsed again with cold water and my skin looked great. Most of the redness was gone and my skin felt AMAZING. I will definately be giving this to my acne prone clients. I followed with my toner then applied a spot treatment.

My finale to my home facial was another new product I havent tried called Guava and Bamboo Age Defying Moisturizer. I added a little water with it to emulsify it. It has a scent that takes me back to my honeymoon in Jamaica. Guava juice moisturizes, revitalizes, and maintain firmness of the skin.

It's like I have brand new skin. I will keep you all updated on how my skin progresses into tomorrow but it is visibly more luminous and my skin feels tight, clean, and refreshed. Of course my blemishes didnt magically disappear but I could swear some of the redness is gone and the swelling is reduced.

It felt great reconnecting with clients today. My first clients here in Virginia. There was an ice storm last night into this morning and the day started out a little hectic. I think I needed the aromatherapy more than my first client. I keep the small talk to a minimum usually but we got on a small conversation over essential oils. I picked up a bottle of Lavendar and Lemongrass yesterday to use for my aromatherapy before the facial starts and to end the treatment with. She was a fount of essential oil knowledge and it has peaked my interest even into this evening. I cant help but feel its one of those moments that the Celestine Prophecy talks about. For those that have never read The Celestine Prophecy, it speaks of being aware of things and people put on your path. Just this past Saturday I picked up an Essential Oil book at the Library to enhance my knowledge on this powerful medicine. I am thankful she was the one to welcome me into the Virginia spa industry. One line she spoke of in particular is a line called Young Living. What a cool company and what a sweet lady. Check this out: http://www.youngliving.com/!

My second client was a sunshine ray and it was her first facial. I love the first timers :) It was a 90 minute Eminence facial with a hand and foot massage. She was very gracious, relaxed, and seemed to really enjoy it. Her skin was glowing when she walked out. I love my job.

sweet cheeks

Delicious strawberries. I'm obsessed. Whether it is the winter cold that is making me more drawn to the summer sweet scent or not, Eminence has a Strawberry Rhubarb Mask that is heavenly.

As stated in my last post, Strawberries contain salicylic acid that gently exfoliates and removes impurities to brighten to skin and shrink pores. This Masque also is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid, this particular ingredient harvested from the marshmallow plant, to deeply hydrate. It also smooths and plumps the skin to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This is a fabulous masque to use for normal, combination, and even dry skin types.

HOW TO USE: You can masque one to two times a week. I recommend setting time each week to first give yourself a mini spa day. Use your exfoliant first (Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant is fabulous) to slough off dead cells so the masque can penetrate. Rinse exfoliant, then use a quarter size amount of Strawberry Rhubarb Masque with a teaspoon of water and apply all over the face. Leave on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cool water. Follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer or night time treatment cream (Blueberry Soy Recovery Cream).

Reawaken your dry,thristy skin with fresh strawberries and rhubarb while marshmallow plant based hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates through its ability to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. Soften and smooth your sweet cheeks for a refreshed, youthful glow :)

Two reasons why I use Eminence

I am an advocate and promoter of Eminence organics for many reasons. Of course the products are amazing because they work and they smell like the fruit and/or herbs they are made from. It really is a treat to use these products daily. I also believe in the power of organics. Another couple reasons are that Eminence products are Paraben and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate FREE.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is found in industrial products like engine degreasers and floor cleaning products. With prolonged and constant use, this ingredient can irritate the skin. Within an hour of using a product containing Sodium Lauryl Sulfate the skin may look red. Do your really want to use a product on your face that are harsh enough to clean your car?

Parabens are found in many products and cosmetics as preservatives to help extend product shelf life. What is horrifying about this is that Parabens have been found in extremely low doses in breast cancer tumors!! The molecular structure of Paraben mimics that of estrogen, therefore, may be a contributing factor to breast cancer. How are parabens FDA approved?!!!!!!

Strawberry Kisses

Eminence has a FANTASTIC gentle daily exfoliator called Strawberry Rubarb Dermafoliant with Lactic Acid. Strawberries contain Salicylic acid which gently exfoliate and removes impurities and dead skin cells naturally. Also Lactic acid helps acccelerate removal of dead skin cells and promotes the growth of new ones. The rice in this product adds gentle mechanical exfoliation to also help buff and smooth your skin. This product is a triple power exfoliator yet gentle enough to use daily, though personally i would recommend every other day.

HOW TO USE: Take a dime size amount of the dry Dermafoliant in the palm of your hand and add about a half teaspoon of water. Rub your hands together to create a creamy paste and apply to the face using circular motions. Work it around for a couple minutes then rinse thoroughly with water. The skin should feel perfectly cleansed, gently exfoliated, polished and smooth. Now its time to apply your serums and or moisturizer.

This has a very nice scent and the way it makes your skin feel is divine! Its gentle enough for even sensitive skin types! Though note: sensitive skin I would only use this product twice a week at most. My skin felt amazingly clean and smooth after this produt. I highly recommend you to try it.

A Night Time Treat

Eminence Organic Skin Care line is one of the best product lines Ive ever worked with. They cold press their hand made products, therefore retaining most of the nutrients lost in Nature's powerful solutions through the heating and cooking down of ingredients. Cold pressing allows the products to be highly concentrated, powerful products that not only are luxurious to use, but also effective solutions to skin concerns. I will no doubt have a million reviews over Eminence products because I love them so much and believe in their mission statement as a company. I encourage everyone to check out their website, www.eminenceorganics.com!

Our skin repairs itself as we sleep and its important for everyone to use a good Night time Treatment Cream/Serum/Treatment of some sort. Eminence has a product called Blueberry Soy Night Recovery Cream that is divine. The Blueberry Juice and Blueberry Pulp used are powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals that break down our skin. Raspberry Juice is also found in this cream which is rich in Vitamin C and Phyto nutrients. Bramble juice is another ingredient rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin A. Eminence also has a trade marked ingredient called a Biocomplex that is found in most products and in this one. It is an antioxidant booster of Vitamin A, Vitamin C Ester, Vitamin E, Coenzyme 10, and Alpha Lipoic Acid. This Night time Treatment works. Its softens and moisturizes the skin and studies show that this product reduces fine lines and wrinkles by up to 43.75% in just 28 days!!! HOW AWESOME IS THAT!
I love this cream because it smells amazing. I use this product every night before I go to bed and it is truly a treat to use. The scent is blueberry heaven and it helps soften some fine lines :) Its a great Night time treatment option for Normal, Dry, Dehydrated, Devitalized Skin types. You can put a drop of two of water in your hands with the cream to dilute it a bit if you find it feeling too heavy for you. The only skin type I would not recommend this for would be highly active break out prone skin. Oily skin types, this would still be a great product to use diluted. In fact, im my years of experience, I find that people that have oily skin tend to overstrip their skin, only making the sebaceous glands stimulate more sebum production.

So if your looking for a great Night time treatment, try this product. It is organic, it is beautifully scented, it repairs the skin and restores water content, and it works.

Dreaming

I want to share my love and joy for great skin care products. Over the years I have worked with many great skin care lines. My goal is to share with you the products that have grabbed my attention, with either effectiveness of correcting concerns or the ones that are just heavenly to use. I believe in the Power of Mother Nature and am drawn to more Natural and/or Organic Products but I will review some of the more Pharmeutical Products as well. I just want to share some of my knowledge and my love for great products. I hope you enjoy :)