Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils and plant extracts to promote physical and emotional wellbeing. It can be incorporated into spa services to enhance the client's experience and provide additional therapeutic benefits. Here are some reasons why and how to use aromatherapy during a spa service:
Relaxation and stress relief: Aromatherapy has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and bergamot are particularly effective for this purpose.
Mood enhancement: Aromatherapy can also be used to enhance the client's mood and uplift their spirits. Essential oils like peppermint, grapefruit, and lemon can help to boost energy and promote a sense of wellbeing.
Physical benefits: Essential oils have a range of physical benefits as well, including pain relief, improved circulation, and improved digestion. Essential oils like eucalyptus and peppermint can be particularly effective for these purposes.
To incorporate aromatherapy into a spa service, estheticians can diffuse essential oils in the treatment room or add them to massage oils, lotions, or other skincare products. They can also use them to infuse hot towels for a gentle addition to a service.
Our essential oil collaboration with Kasey Boone was specifically created to elevate your facials. The scent notes are of warm desert nights, cool streams, rose and lemon water. For Kasey's top 3 tips on using essential oil in the treatment room, check out her blog feature here.
In conclusion, aromatherapy can be a valuable addition to spa services, providing a range of physical and emotional benefits for clients. By using essential oils properly and with care, estheticians can create a relaxing and therapeutic atmosphere that enhances the overall spa experience.
]]>Botanical skincare is beneficial for a number of reasons. Botanicals are plant-derived ingredients that have been used for centuries for their medicinal and therapeutic properties. Here are some reasons why botanical skincare is so beneficial:
Natural and non-toxic: Botanical ingredients are derived from nature and are generally free of harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients. This means they are less likely to cause irritation or other adverse reactions.
Gentle yet effective: Botanicals are often gentle yet effective ingredients that can help to nourish and soothe the skin without causing damage or irritation. They can be especially beneficial for those with sensitive skin or other skin conditions.
Nutrient-rich: Botanicals are packed with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help to protect and nourish the skin. These nutrients can help to improve skin texture, reduce inflammation, and promote overall skin health.
Versatile: Botanicals can be used in a wide range of skincare products, from cleansers and toners to serums and moisturizers. They can be combined with other natural ingredients to create custom formulations tailored to specific skin concerns.
Sustainable: Botanicals are a renewable resource that can be grown and harvested in an environmentally sustainable way. Many botanicals are also ethically sourced and support fair trade practices.
Some examples of botanicals commonly used in skincare include aloe vera, chamomile, lavender, rosehip, green tea, and calendula. These ingredients can be found in a variety of skincare products, including facial oils, masks, and serums.
In conclusion, botanical skincare is beneficial because it is natural, gentle yet effective, nutrient-rich, versatile, and sustainable. By incorporating botanical ingredients into your skincare routine, you can help to support your skin's health and overall wellbeing.
]]>Shelf talkers are small signs or labels placed on shelves near products to provide information and attract attention. In a spa, they can be valuable for several reasons:
Highlighting Key Features: Shelf talkers can draw attention to specific features or benefits of skincare products, helping customers understand why they are beneficial for their skin.
Educational Tool: They can serve as a quick educational tool, offering information about ingredients, usage, or special properties of the products.
Promoting New or Featured Products: Shelf talkers can be used to promote new arrivals or highlight featured products, encouraging customers to try something new.
Providing Recommendations: They can offer recommendations for specific skin types or concerns, guiding customers towards products that align with their needs.
Enhancing Visibility: In a busy spa environment, shelf talkers can help products stand out amidst a wide array of options, making it easier for customers to make informed choices.
Creating a Professional Appearance: Well-designed shelf talkers can convey a sense of professionalism and care, which can enhance the overall impression of the spa.
Encouraging Upselling: They can suggest complementary products, potentially leading to increased sales and a more comprehensive skincare regimen for the customer.
Reinforcing Brand Messaging: They provide an opportunity to reinforce the brand's values, such as a commitment to natural, organic, or sustainable ingredients.
Engaging Customer Interest: Eye-catching shelf talkers with compelling visuals or intriguing facts can pique customer interest and encourage them to explore the product further.
Building Trust: Accurate and informative shelf talkers build trust with customers, as they demonstrate a commitment to transparency and providing valuable information.
By utilizing shelf talkers effectively, a spa can enhance the shopping experience, educate customers about products, and ultimately increase sales, all while aligning with the spa's brand and values. It’s the ONLY way to sell products while you are busy with a client which is why we have created a pack of Shelf Talkers for My Friends Use This products!
Our shelf talkers are 4.3x5.5 double sided and printed on premium paper. They are uncoated and give a matte look.
]]>Liquid face and body highlighter is a versatile product that can be used to add a glowing, luminous effect to your skin. Here are some tips on how to use liquid face and body highlighter:
Choose the right shade: Liquid highlighters come in a variety of shades, so choose a shade that complements your skin tone. For a natural look, choose a shade that is one to two shades lighter than your skin tone.
Prep your skin: Before applying the highlighter, make sure your skin is clean and moisturized. This will help the highlighter blend smoothly and evenly.
Apply the highlighter: There are different ways to apply liquid highlighter, but one common method is to use your fingertips. Simply dab a small amount of highlighter onto the high points of your face, such as your cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid's bow, and blend it out with your fingertips. For your body, apply the highlighter to your collarbones, shoulders, and legs.
Build up the intensity: If you want a more intense glow, you can build up the highlighter by applying multiple layers. Just make sure to blend each layer out well to avoid any harsh lines.
Mix with foundation: You can also mix a small amount of liquid highlighter with your foundation or moisturizer for an all-over glow. This can give your skin a subtle, dewy look.
Set with powder: To make your highlighter last longer, you can set it with a translucent powder. This will help to lock in the highlighter and prevent it from fading throughout the day.
In conclusion, liquid face and body highlighter is a fun and versatile product that can add a beautiful glow to your skin. By following these tips and experimenting with different application techniques, you can achieve a radiant, luminous look that will make you feel confident and beautiful.
]]>We are so excited to have Kasey Boone feature on our blog today! She is sharing with us her top 3 ways to use the Glow by Kasey Boone Skincare™ Essential Oil...
Glow Essential Oil truly has a scent like no other. We took months curating the best organic essential oils with the most uniquely warm, calming but also uplifting scent. With ingredients like rose, geranium and lemon, your clients will come running back for more.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to use (Glow) essential oil in and out of the treatment room.
1. In a super cute diffuser that can be placed in the lobby, bathroom or treatment room. Think filling your entire space with this scent. Heaven!
2. At the beginning and/or end of your facial. Just a drop on the palm of your hand, while your client takes 3 deep breaths. What a way to relax, center and calm the mind.
3. Infuse your hot towels. Hopefully you are using The Original Perfect Facial Towel. wink* wink* Get a slightly damp cotton round, add 2-3 drops of Glow EO and place at the bottom of your towel cabinet to infuse your towels all day. This will save you from using too much EO as well as not over saturate your towels.
KB tip! Use it in your own mediation practice or keep it in your car to lighten the mood!
Xoxox Kasey Boone
The change in weather that comes with the summer season can have a significant impact on your skin, which is why it's important to adapt your skincare routine accordingly. Here are some tips for changing up your skincare routine for the summer:
Use a lighter moisturizer: As the weather gets warmer and more humid, your skin may not require as heavy a moisturizer as it does during the colder months. Switch to a lightweight moisturizer or gel-based moisturizer that provides hydration without feeling heavy or greasy on your skin. We love Sun Down Spray as an added step in your summer skincare routine - super hydrating and nourishing!
Increase your SPF: It's important to wear sunscreen all year round, but it's especially crucial during the summer when the sun's rays are stronger. Increase your SPF to at least 30 and reapply every two hours if you're spending time outdoors.
Exfoliate regularly: Sweating and increased oil production during the summer can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Exfoliate your skin regularly with a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. We love the silicone brush by KB Skincare for a super gentle physical exfoliation!
Incorporate antioxidants: The sun and pollution can cause oxidative stress on your skin, leading to premature aging and damage. Incorporate antioxidants into your skincare routine to combat this, such as vitamin C or green tea.
Adjust your cleansing routine: Sweat, sunscreen, and makeup can build up on your skin during the summer, so it's important to adjust your cleansing routine accordingly. Consider using a gentle foaming cleanser or cleansing oil to thoroughly remove all impurities from your skin without stripping it of its natural oils. Our Balm is the MVP of sunscreen, sweat and makeup removing while also providing your skin deep nourishment.
Hydrate from the inside out: Drinking plenty of water and eating hydrating foods can help keep your skin looking healthy and glowing during the summer. Consider incorporating more water-rich fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon and cucumber, into your diet. A hydrating tea is a great option to get some added vitamins and minerals into your diet! Try out a beauty tea that is specifically formulated with herbs to benefit your skin!
By following these tips, you can help keep your skin healthy and glowing all summer long. Remember to listen to your skin and adjust your routine as needed to keep it looking and feeling its best.
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Tea is not only a popular beverage but also a great source of antioxidants and other nutrients that can benefit your skin. Here are some ways in which tea can help your skin internally:
Rich in antioxidants: Tea is loaded with antioxidants, such as catechins and flavonoids, which can help protect your skin against oxidative stress and damage from free radicals. This can lead to fewer signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Many teas also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm and soothe inflamed skin. This can be particularly beneficial for those with acne-prone skin or skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Boosts hydration: Drinking tea can help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. This is important because dehydrated skin can lead to dryness, flakiness, and premature aging.
Enhances collagen production: Some teas, such as green tea, contain compounds that can help enhance collagen production in your skin. Collagen is a protein that helps keep your skin firm and elastic, so increasing its production can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Promotes healthy blood flow: Certain teas, such as hibiscus tea, can help improve blood flow to your skin. This can help deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to your skin cells, promoting healthy cell turnover and a radiant complexion.
Overall, drinking tea can be a great way to support healthy skin from the inside out. Incorporating a variety of teas into your daily routine can provide a range of benefits for your skin and overall health.
Our favorite beauty tea is our Gotu Kola | Moringa tea! It’s a delicious mint tea that’s packed with skin loving herbs.
]]>Resetting your retail shelves for the summer can help to keep your store looking fresh and inviting, while also showcasing new products and seasonal favorites. Here are some steps you can take to reset your retail shelves for the summer:
Take inventory: Start by taking inventory of your current stock and identifying which products are selling well and which ones need to be replenished or discontinued. This will help you to create a plan for restocking and rearranging your shelves.
Clean and organize: Before you begin restocking your shelves, take some time to clean and organize the space. This includes dusting, wiping down surfaces, and rearranging displays to make sure everything is easy to find and visually appealing.
Group products by theme: Consider grouping products by theme, such as summer skincare essentials or travel-sized products. This will make it easier for customers to find what they're looking for and encourage them to purchase complementary items.
Highlight seasonal favorites: Showcase seasonal favorites, such as sunscreen, post-Brazilian care, and after-sun care products, in a prominent location on your shelves. This will help to draw customers' attention to these products and encourage them to make a purchase.
Incorporate new products: Summer is a great time to introduce new products, such as lightweight moisturizers, refreshing toners, and brightening serums. Make sure to display these products prominently on your shelves and provide information on their benefits and ingredients.
By following these steps, you can create an inviting and visually appealing retail space that showcases seasonal favorites and encourages customers to make a purchase. Remember to update your displays regularly to keep your store looking fresh and up-to-date throughout the summer season! Our best selling summer products, Sun Down Spray and Sun Down Shimmer can be purchased in wholesale packs to easily stock your summer shelves!
]]>Oil cleansing is a popular skincare technique that has been gaining traction in recent years. It is a gentle yet effective way to cleanse your face of impurities, without stripping your skin of its natural oils. Oil cleansing involves using a blend of natural oils to dissolve and remove dirt, makeup, and other impurities from your skin. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of oil cleansing and how to do it properly.
Benefits of Oil Cleansing:
Cleanses your skin without stripping it of its natural oils: Traditional cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry, dehydrated and feeling tight. Oil cleansing, on the other hand, dissolves dirt and makeup while leaving your skin’s natural oils intact.
Moisturizes and nourishes your skin: The natural oils used in oil cleansing are packed with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that help nourish and soften your skin. This can help improve the overall health and appearance of your skin.
Helps balance your skin’s natural oil production: When your skin is stripped of its natural oils, it can overcompensate by producing more oil. Oil cleansing helps balance your skin’s natural oil production, which can help reduce oiliness and breakouts.
How to Oil Cleanse:
Choose your oil: My Friends Use This Balm or Oil are crowd favorites for oil cleansing. Both products are packed with nourishing oils that will give you an amazing oil cleansing experience.
Apply the oil: Start by applying a small amount of oil to your dry face. Massage the oil into your skin using gentle, circular motions. Take your time and make sure you cover your entire face.
Steam your face: Wet a clean washcloth with hot water and wring it out. Place the warm washcloth over your face and let it sit for a minute or two. The steam will help open up your pores and allow the oil to penetrate deeper.
Remove the oil: Use the warm washcloth to gently wipe away the oil and any impurities. Rinse the washcloth and repeat until all of the oil has been removed.
Optional: Follow up with a gentle cleanser: If you have particularly stubborn makeup or sunscreen, you may want to follow up with a gentle cleanser to ensure that all traces of impurities are removed. We love My Friends Use This Mix for this step.
Oil cleansing is a gentle and effective way to cleanse your skin without stripping it of its natural oils. It can help hydrate, nourish, and balance your skin while removing any kind of difficult sunscreen, make up or debris. Have you tried oil cleansing yet?! Tell us in the comments below!
]]>An effective skincare routine is one that you enjoy doing, and that fits into your lifestyle. The best skin care products are the ones that make us look and feel good on the inside, not just on the outside. A holistic routine is an all-encompassing approach to skincare, which includes cultivating a healthy mind and body in addition to external care. If your diet and exercise routine is lacking, even the most diligent skincare routine can lack the desired results. Holistic skincare focuses on high-quality products, rich in plant-based nutrients and herbal components. No toxic chemicals, ever.
It’s Time To Kick Off Your New Routine
When starting a holistic skincare routine, you’ll want to do some serious research. Marketing can be deceiving, and even some “natural products” still contain unhealthy ingredients that are harmful to our bodies and the environment. Instead, focus on small-batch, botanical skincare lines that consist of pure, plant-focused ingredients.
Three products to get you started with your new routine can be a facial oil, a mask, and a cleansing balm. Cleansing balms help remove makeup, unclog pores, and coat the skin with protective antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which can damage your skin and increase signs of aging. You’ll also want to invest in a facial oil, to moisturize the skin without pore-clogging ingredients. Our face oil is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to keep your skin supple and fresh. Finally, adding in a weekly mask treatment can help maintain your radiant skin and is the perfect addition to your self-care Sunday routine.
Nutritional Impact on Your Skin
What you put into your body is equally as important as what goes on it. When you indulge in supplements that hydrate, replenish, and invigorate your internal system, your skin will reflect this high-quality treatment. One simple way you can reap these immense health benefits is through our tea, Gotu Kola | Moringa Tea. This caffeine-free tea will hydrate your skin from the inside out while the herbs nourish and soothe. Adding this herbal tea to your morning routine pairs beautifully with your new holistic skincare routine.
The Relationship Between Stress and Skin
Stress is a big factor in how our skin looks, and reducing your stress levels is one of the best ways to improve the health of your skin. Stress can cause acne and rosacea, as well as make existing skin conditions worse. The impact of stress doesn't stop there; hormone levels are affected by stress and may cause breakouts or make existing acne worse. A holistic routine combined with stress-reducing practices can make a massive impact on your skin's well-being. Start simple, and include more movement throughout your day. This can be a walk, a workout class, or simply taking the stairs whenever possible. Endorphins reduce cortisol within the body and promote the production of “happy chemicals” like serotonin and dopamine. When stress goes down, and these chemicals increase, you’ll both feel and see the results.
Developing a holistic skincare routine starts with a few simple changes that can transform your well-being, inside and out. Investing in high-quality, clean products, and focusing on nutrition and stress reduction can truly make all the difference!
]]>1) Balm - this is a cleansing balm to help remove makeup, sunscreen and debris from skin. It is made from super nourishing butters and oils to leave your skin soft and plump.
BONUS: use this on dry, cracked hands, elbows, arms or legs!
2) Mix - this is a micellar water AKA a blend of herbal infused astringent, soothing hydrosol and oils. This is all the benefits of an astringent for skin without leaving it stripped. It's the best at removing any water-proof makeup and providing a mild cleanse after the balm.
3) Oil - ending your skincare routine with a facial oil is going to lock in all the moisture and really nourish your skin. Our facial oil is amazing for a quick facial massage to increase circulation.
4) Tea - it is cold out and you NEED something warm to drink. Brew up a cup (or pot) of our beauty tea! It is caffeine free so not only can you drink it in the AM or PM but it is also going to be super hydrating. The blend of different herbs and flowers is extremely soothing and packed with nutrients.
Which are you adding into your winter skincare routine today?
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Here are our favorites going into 2023...
1) My skin is healthy and healing.
2) I am comfortable in my skin.
3) My skin is healthy, glowing and balanced.
4) I'm healing my skin from the inside out.
5) I am beautiful on the inside and out.
6) I am allowed to age gracefully.
7) I trust my skin's ability to heal itself.
8) I choose to see my skin with love.
9) I love my skin.
10) I am blessed with lines, wrinkles and scars that tell my story.
We love using our skincare affirmations while dry brushing, practicing facial massage or washing our faces.
Which are you going to incorporate into your skincare routine?
]]>Not only is Ellen an amazing person but she also cares about clean skincare products, a holistic approach to her services AND providing an unforgettable experience. Part of her services include a TEA BAR. We are obsessed. Ellen was kind enough to walk us through her process in this interview…
Can you introduce yourself and tell us how you became interested in a more holistic approach to skincare?
I’m Ellen Watkins, a licensed esthetician from Missouri! I am the owner of Ellevate Skin + Brows, which is located just outside of Kansas City. I started esthetician school in March 2020, which was a pretty interesting time to say the least. Becoming an esthetician at a time when the world really needed to rethink self care felt like perfect timing. I knew that as an esthetician, it was important to niche myself down and find my “vibe”. For me, the holistic lifestyle is part of my daily life and it was super easy to transition that to esthetics. For good skin, we already know that it’s about so much more than skincare- it’s the whole package. Holistic esthetics felt like the only way to go, and I’m so grateful I went down this path. Crystals, sound healing, affirmations & guided meditation are part of all of my facials, just like they’re a part of my life!
Looking at your facials, we think you have some of the most creative and beautiful offerings. Just out of curiosity, what is your favorite facial to give right now?!
Thank you so much! I put lots of effort into making sure they’re all unique, beautiful experiences. My current favorite is my newest facial, the Blue Fluorite Crystal Facial. It’s ocean themed and is a hybrid service featuring both a facial and reiki energy work! This is the first facial where I’ve included energy work, and so far the response has been great. Working in reiki to a facial has allowed me to Ellevate my services even more, pun intended 😉 honestly, any facial where I get the go-ahead to work my magic to its fullest extent is a fulfilling experience for me as much as it is the client.
We love the combination of the two!! It really is a holistic service - coving skincare and energy. Total wellness. We know you also have a tea bar, right?! We are big, big fans of supplementing skincare from within.
Yes I do! When creating my facials, I knew I wanted to offer a unique experience from start to finish. I’m also a gal that doesn’t go a day without a fancy beverage so I knew the tea bar would be an awesome touch. At the end of every facial, my clients get to choose between various hot herbal teas (including the MFUT gotu kola tea which is a crowd fave here), matcha, and cacao lattes. They get to leave their facial with a smile and drink in hand! It’s also just so comforting to have someone prepare you a nourishing drink made with lots of love. Definitely a favorite moment at Ellevate and one that sets me apart!
I bet people feel so taken care of after having an amazing facial and then being treated to a drink!! Hit us with some logistics, do clients stay and shop and sip or do they get their drink in a to-go mug?
Yes absolutely! So I always make the drinks to-go, because sometimes clients have to leave right after their facial. Typically, clients stay for a few minutes past their facial while I make them their drink. This gives them time to look around my spa or shop my retail unattended for a moment. People like to gaze around and look without having someone peeking over their shoulder- I find that this time allows them to look at whatever is calling them first, and I can offer suggestions/opinions on products once I’ve finished their drink. It’s a nice little system that works well for me! It also gives the client a few minutes after their facial to kind of “marinate” in the facial energy and absorb the peaceful environment a few minutes longer. I never want someone to feel rushed out of my space!
Brilliant. We love the idea of letting someone relax and reflect a little after a service! If someone wanted to start their own tea bar, what are some supplies you’d 100% recommend having?
I found it pretty easy to create a tea bar! You’ll need something to make the drinks on with a flat surface to start, and I used a desk for that. I got nice to go cups and lids, ones that matched my branding. I do have a few mugs for in person use as well that occasionally get used. I have a variety of teas- make sure to get several different kinds. Something minty, something fruity, something spicy like chai. Some with caffeine and some without. I also carry ceremonial cacao and matcha tea in addition to the herbal and loose leaf teas I carry. I also stock up on almond milk to do cacao and matcha lattes, but be sure to get other kinds of milk in case you have a dairy or nut allergy. It’s all about inclusivity! I also stocked up on sugar, honey, and cinnamon for my tea drinks. I have a handheld milk frother tool that I use to mix some of the drinks, like matcha. The only other thing is a hot water kettle! It sounds like a lot, but its worth it!
Where can people follow you / book with you?
You can find me on Instagram @estheticianellen or online at https://www.ellevateskinandbrows.com/
We were so inspired by this interview that we put some tea bar mood board together and created an entire Amazon shopping list so you can create your dreamy space easily!
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Sustainability is at the core of My Friends Use This. We are excited to kick off Recycle Awareness Week by defining a few terms you may see on beauty packages + what those mean for you.
PCR or rPET
One major issue with recycling plastic is that a lot of times even if it is recycled, it’s never put to use. If your only packaging option is plastic, look for a PCR or rPET bottle. PCR means post-consumer recycled meaning that the plastic this PCR bottle is made out of recycled plastic! rPET stands for recycled PET plastic but has the same principles as PCR.
Plastic Recycling Symbols
Ever wonder what those numbers inside a triangle mean on your plastic bottles? These numbers indicate what material the bottle is made from. Some of these materials can be recycled while some have to be thrown away.
Percent Recycled
California is now requiring 15% recycled content in beverage containers - while beauty product containers still aren’t required to contain recycled materials, a lot of them do it anyways! If you can’t avoid a plastic container, look to see if it contains any recycled materials. This is a more conscious way to shop plastic.
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Hanna! Can you introduce yourself and your business to us? How did you get started?
I am a Makeup Artist and Licensed Esthetician. Cruelty Free and Earth Conscious. My focus is on using the nature of science to care for and enhance skin from the inside out.
After growing up on the Central Coast, I left to explore art, music and psychology in Southern California. A few years and a bachelor's degree later, I returned to the Central Coast where I married and started a family.
I worked many years in the manufacturing and business worlds, but my eye for and long time love of make-up led me to freelance make-up work.
My love of makeup has evolved in to an even greater love for skin. Enhancing health and beauty from the inside out. Protecting our environment (the human body as well as the earth) is a number one priority in my practice.
Over the years my makeup work has been seen in publications such as Vintage NYC Magazine, FAE Magazine, Lilly Magazine, Performance Apparel, and in online campaigns like Lucy Aragon for La Isla Brand Swimwear.
I love that your skincare business started with such a strong vision with even stronger values. These are a few of the reasons we wanted to do this mini interview with you…well and the fact that you are an AMAZING esthetician!!
Since we are quickly approaching peel season, can you explain to us what a peel is?
I feel the same about you guys! It’s such a great feeling to find like minded people and businesses.
Yes! Absolutely! There is certainly a peel season. When the sun is less severe and we start dressing more for cold weather and spend the majority of our time in doors, peel season begins.
A peel is a chemical process (as opposed to a physical one). Carefully selected chemicals are used to remove top layers of skin in the face (how many depends on the type/depth of the peel…ie light, medium, deep). Once these layers are removed, new, healthier layers are revealed. The lighter, or more surface level the peel is, the more treatments may be require to achieve the desired result. Some desired results include:
minimizing lines and wrinkles, scars, and discoloration/pigmentation issues, and improvement in skin texture.
Oh amazing!! Is there anyone that should avoid peels? What could someone expect during and after the service?
Definitely!
Peels require both skin preparation outside the treatment room (a skincare regimen provided by the esthetician or physician (if a deeper level peel) and post care after the treatment.
I tell my clients if they aren’t good about following a daily skincare routine, then a peel is not for them.
Additionally, there are some contraindications for peels as well:
•use of Retin-A, Acutane, Steroids, and/or other skin thinning and exfoliating products within the last 6months to 1 year
•Recent laser resurfacing, cosmetic surgery, dermabrasion, or recent medium depth to deep chemical peel
•tendency to easily scar or pigment (family history of keloids, etc)
•Pregnancy, Breast Feeding (always consult your physician)
•Severe Rosacea or acne
•Sunburn
•Sores or open wounds
•High Blood Pressure, Heart Disease, Diabetes
•Infectious Disease
•Active Herpes
•Immunodeficiency
•Recent Tattoo/Cosmetic Tattoo Work (must be fully healed)
•Others indicated by your doctor
During the treatment:
The treatment process may vary by the depth of peel and the type of peel being performed. Generally, however, after the skin has been prepped (by the client at home for a predetermined time period) the provider will cleanse the skin. Layers of a chemical solution will then be applied, one at a time, with a cotton swab or gauze pad. The client may feel mild to intense activity (aka spiciness, tingling, even a bit of burning). Some may experience a whitening of the skin called “frosting” during the process.
Once the appropriate amount of layers have been applied and allowed to penetrate the skin, they are either removed or neutralized with another product (some neutralize on their own after a certain amount of time). The provider will then apply other treatment room product as indicated by the peel they have chosen with their provider.
Post Treatment:
SUN PROTECTION, SUN PROTECTION, SUN PROTECTION!!! SPF, hats, other protective clothing!
Skin can be red, swollen, tight. It is so important to be diligent with cleansing, moisturizing, and applying protective ointments, etc. along with sunscreen.
The duration of the healing process varies by individual and the depth of the peel. Actual peeling and sloughing off of dead skin may or may not occur (and may change from peel to peel).
SO much good information here. We feel like we kind of hit everything that someone could expect going into a peel!!
Let’s dive into the pro side…what is your favorite peel to offer to clients and why?
Ok! My favorite in treatment room peel is by iS Clinical and is called the Prodigy Peel. The reason I love it so much is because it is well suited to a wide variety of clients, as it is gentle. Don’t let the term gentle fool you…it’s VERY effective. My approach to everything from makeup to skincare to skin treatments is more in the conservative side. I would much rather do 3 gentle peels to get you where you want to be than 1 really intense one that requires some serious recovery time. I always err on the side of caution.
I also love this peel because it can be up-kept (after initial peel heeling) using iS Clinical’s at home Active Peel System. The combination is a no brainer for me!
We love your more gradual and intentional approach to the process! Do you have any advice someone trying to add a peel to their services?
Absolutely!
I’d recommend coming in for a consult and custom facial (we’ll do an extensive skin analysis and a nice cleanse and balancing treatment). From there we can begin properly prepping the skin together for peeling treatments! This allows me to get to know your skin and YOU and what you expect out of your peel experience.
And for the pros, any good resources or training courses you recommend?
I always keep my eyes open for continuing education! Concepts Institute of Advanced Technology offers some great courses on skin anatomy and well as peels. I also recommend taking the courses provided by the manufacturer of the peel you are offering. If they don’t offer one or require one, I’d rethink offering that particular peel. Lastly, refresh your knowledge once a year. Technology moves fast these days and new information is constantly being shared.
Hanna, thank you SO much for sharing your knowledge with us! Where can people find you?
I am on Instagram @blue_dot_beauty or @hannafishermakeup. All appointments can be booked online at https://www.bluedotbeauty.com
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My Friends Use This is a skincare line focused on food grade ingredients, multi-use products and zero waste packaging. After searching for a clean, affordable skincare line and finding it impossible, the duo set out to make their own after completing multiple courses in botanical skincare and formulation. That's when they began My Friends Use This.
Emily, The Brow Fox, has been an esthetician for 7 years. Just a year and a half into the industry Emily found her love for waxing and brows. When she learned most hard waxes were just a polymer and sadly not biodegradable, she did a ton of research and set out to open an eco-friendly wax boutique. Next up was creating good-for-you pre and post waxing solutions!
Currently Emily has a small brow product line called Brow Fox Beauty and salon suites in San Luis Obispo, and a few online classes. Emily is a very passionate esthetician and wants others to succeed as well as use sustainable practices!
Together, we wanted to collaborate to offer a clean, sustainable option for waxers who are also eco-conscious as well as skincare conscious. Not icky ingredients here, ESPECIALLY on freshly waxed skin!
These products are for licensed professionals and students to be used on clients pre and post waxing in the treatment room. The My Friends Who Wax bundle is a limited edition collection- when it's gone it's gone! Exclusively available for purchase through the Brow Fox Beauty website!
]]>A scientific paper was published in 2018 saying that moringa can "provides 7 times more vitamin C than oranges, 9 times more protein than yoghurt, 10 times more vitamin A than carrots, 15times more potassium than bananas, 17 times more calcium than milk and 25times more iron than spinach" (2018, Rajbhar et al.)
When it comes to skincare, moringa has been making headlines. Topically, moringa can help with your skins appearance from complexion to fine lines to the occasional blemish. Because moringa is rich in vitamin C and vitamin A, it can give your skin elasticity, antioxidants to fight off free radicals while also giving you a natural, healthy glow.
We love this plant SO MUCH that we created a whole skincare line using its leaves in various ways (like oil infusions, tinctures and dried/powdered). By using this plant in various ways throughout our product line, each product extracts something a little different and we even have a beauty tea containing moringa if you want to incorporate it into your diet!
Tell us your favorite moringa fact in the comments below!
]]>Aloe is one of the oldest known plants used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes (even dating back to 1750 BC!!)
Present day, research has shown aloe to have over 75 constituents including polysaccharides, tannins, organic acids, magnesium, enzymes and amino acids.
Aloe Vera is the go-to plant for the summer + here are a few reasons why...
The inner filet of the aloe plant is full of mucilaginous polysaccharides that can be used to sooth, protect and restore your skin. Those mucilaginous polysaccharides are what give aloe that thick, gel like consistency.
Aloe is also rich in magnesium and salicylic acid which actually work together to ease pain making it a great after sun ingredient.
The natural pH of aloe is 4.3 which is slightly acidic but pairs perfectly for balancing the skins pH (which is normally around 5.5).
Do you like using aloe in your skincare products?! Tell us below...
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We are back again with our favorite guide to spf! Here are the who, what, whys of sunscreen:
1) WHO: everyone. Literally everyone needs to be thinking about using protection...come on guys, we're still talking about the sun. It doesn't matter about how much you "neeeever burn" or how tan you get. It's not about race or sun exposure. We will dive more into why later but just know that everyone, even if you don't burn, can get sun damage!
2) WHAT: sun protection includes clothing items like long sleeveshirts, hats, sunglasses AND sunscreen! According to EWG, articles of clothing can reduce your burn risk by 27%! Sunscreen is another amazing option and in our opinion, a must have for your skin this summer. Head over to the EWG 2020 sunscreen website to do your own research on brands. We look for a mineral based, cream sunscreen that is reef safe!
3) WHY: We’re going to assume you’ve heard of UVA and UVB rays…those are the ones from the sun that do more than just give you that JLO glow or lobster burn. What is the “more” you ask? Well UV radiation causes oxidative stress which then leads to the formation of reactive oxygen species or maybe you’ve heard them called free radicals. And you guessed right…free radicals are NO BUENO. In fact, UV radiation exposure is cited as a cause in 65% of melanomas and 90% of other types of skin cancer, thus making it the number one risk factor in the development of skin cancer THAT YOU CAN CHANGE (D’Orazio et al., 2013). Well I bet you are probably thinking right now…”That’s just like if you get really burned not if you are tanning, right? I’m just trying to get that glow though.” We are here to tell you that you are wrong. That glow now while you are young is going to cost you later, big time. Oxidative stress doesn’t just play a major role in the development of skin cancer but it also causes damage to fats and proteins in the layers of the skin, and is directly linked to wrinkles (Purba et al., 2001).
when you are shopping for spf this summer, use this guide to help you! We know it can be confusing, so we suggest saving this image to your phone for easy access!
For help combating summer skin, make sure you check out our new Sun Down Summer collection that helps hydrate and replenish your dry summer skin!!
]]>These are the top 5 questions you have had about the herbal steam…
1) What kind of steamer do you need?
You can use any steamer! Some have herbal catches where you can place the steam bag directly. If your steamer does not have this, you can place the herbs directly into your water basin. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
2) How do you use the steam? How much do I use?
It is SUPER easy! We know you are busy so we tried to make this as simple as possible. Take your steam spoon and scoop 3 spoonfuls into a steam bag. Place the steam bag into the herbal catch or into your water basin. THAT'S IT! If you don't have an herb catch put a few scoops right into your water basin.
Less is more so we recommend 2-3 scoops.
3) Can one bag last two facials?
Yes! You can definitely get two or maybe three steams out of one bag! While the aromatherapy benefits may get a little more faint your client will still receive amazing skin benefits.
4) How do I purchase these wholesale?
The price on the website is the wholesale cost! This is a pro only product so we went ahead and made it easy for you to shop directly on the website!
If you are interested in retailing these to your customers, you get 10% off when you buy 5.
5) Where can I find more information?
Make sure to check out blog posts on the My Friends Use This website and Kasey Boone Skincare™ Follow us both on Instagram for daily deets.
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Here are some of our favorites:
Since redness of the skin is caused by underlying inflammation, chamomile is great at removing redness, calming skin and soothing irritation (Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD).
It is also packed with an antioxidant called apigenin - this is why you see chamomile in many skincare ingredients being promoted as “healing” (Dr. Zeichner, MD, FAAD).
Often chamomile has a sweet smell, almost resembling green apple with some earthy notes.
Have you ever tried skincare products with calendula in them? Tell us in the
We are big on suitability over here at My Friends Use This. In an industry full of single use packaging, tons of plastic and overall waste, we are always doing what we can to lower our environmental impact.
We are excited to be sharing some of our favorite ways to sustainably use our herbal steams in your treatment room!
Q: We are so excited to be featuring you for National Esthetician Month!! Introduce yourself and how you got started in the industry.
A: Thanks so much for the feature. My name is Emily Stites and I got started on the industry through the owner’s wife of a big fancy resort I worked partirme at! She freaking loved her job and I did NOT love mine (which is why I had to work a second job at the resort restaurant) I also got a discount at the SPA at the resort so you know I took full advantage of that. The esthetician there was so amazing I thought, maybe I could do this one day. She got me totally HOOKED on spray tanning. Once I learned I didn’t have to be licensed to do that I bought a machine and started doing that + makeup. Then quit my full time job & went to beauty school and continued to work at the restaurant then transfer to their spa once I was licensed.
Q: We love that you had so much ambition to get started in the industry and amazing mentors to inspire you! Anyone that follows you now is not surprised AT ALL by the ambitious start you had. Your business has changed and grown so much over the last year. You have so much drive and it feels like every decision is made with great intent. Can you talk to us about some of the ways your business is changing now? What direction are you headed in?
Q: We are so happy to be interviewing the two of you for National Esthetician Month!! Can you introduce yourself and your mom and tell us how you both got started in the industry?
A: We are excited to be featured! My name is Faith and my mom/co-esti is Amy. My mom has always had a love for skin care and she introduced me to the beauty industry in my early twenties. She decided to pursue her love and start a career in Aesthetics as soon as I got licensed. We then opened our skincare + lash studio in hopes of creating a cozy space where our clients could come get professional yet affordable treatments. We feel self care is so important and we wanted to help make that a possibility for everyone. P.S. Forever will be celebrating 5 years of being open in March!
Q: Oh my gosh that's amazing! 5 years?! So you two kind of build your business together? Do you have a blast working so closely with your mom?
A: We completely built our business together and it has been so much fun working alongside each other! We both offer different services so we end up sharing a lot of the same clients. It really does feel like a big family between all of us!
Q: On the backend of business stuff do you two have different skillsets? I know on our end we definitely split up the behind the scenes business tasks based on who is better at certain things or who enjoys doing specific tasks more than the other! Like Keele is super good at excel sheets while Madison loves doing all things social media! We always like to see how other business partners handle those types of things together.
A: We always joke and say I am in charge of our social media and my mom is in charge of the laundry! She literally takes the laundry home with her every night. God bless her. However, anyone who crates content for social media knows it's not a quick or simple task so she never feels like she's got the short end of the stick! The rest of the business tasks such a soldering product or thinking up new facials we have fun doing together.
Q: Okay we are sooo happy you brought up the new facial topic because we had the honor of being part of your September facial with our Sun Down Shimmer and we are so in love with the idea of a new feature facial each month!
Can you tell us what inspired you guys to start offering them?
A: We loved having your Sun Down Shimmers in our September feature facial and so did our clients! My mom and I decided to do a new facial every month so that we could support other skincare lines in the industry while introducing our clients to new products they may love. We also like to do themed facials for Holidays to make it fun! People always tell us they look forward to seeing what the new featured facial is each month and we LOVE that it keeps everyone excited and coming back for more!
Q: How do you go about creating the monthly featured facial? Are they always centered around a theme? Take us through the creation process from the first idea to advertisement!
A: We love creating our featured facials and do try to theme them with the month they are featured in. So if there is a holiday in the month, let’s say Valentine’s Day, we would look for a skincare line with a chocolate mask or anything we feel would go with Valentines Day. If there isn’t a holiday we brainstorm and create a facial great for all skin types that we would want to receive. We try to plan and have our featured facial products ordered months in advance that way we have time to use the new products on ourselves first and really dive into learning each one.
Then I will create an Instagram story to advertise the facial we will be featuring. I have so much fun creating our advertisements for our facials! I like to do a four page story starting with a cover page to draw our audience in. The second and third page will describe the enzyme and mask we will be using in the facial. Then the fourth page will close out the add and have scheduling information. I then make that story a highlight on our page so that it’s easy for our clients to find again. After creating the story I will make one post on our page with a lot of the same information used in that story. We really put a lot of love and effort into designing each facial and I feel like they keep our clients excited for the next month and coming back for more!
Q: While we’re on the topic, what are a few of your favorite ways to create graphics? We are big Canva fans, but always looking for new options!
A: We do EVERYTHING through Canva! It’s our favorite way to create!
Q: Right?! It’s the BEST.
What is your best piece of advice for creating graphics for those just starting out?
A: I would say don’t put so much pressure on yourself and create when you feel creative. Whenever I try forcing myself to create a graphic or put together a post, it never turns out the way I want. Pre planning post such as our ads for our featured facial has also really helped me.
Q: Thank you SO much for sharing all of your insight on business partnerships and creating your feature facial!! It was so fun to talk with you about it all! One last question, where can we find you?
A: You can find us on Instagram @p.s.foreveraesthetics!
FRIENDS! We are so excited to kick off our blog series for October!! If you didn't know, October is National Esthetician Month. To celebrate, we have interviews coming to you from some of our fav esties around!
We are kicking off this series with Andrea from MB Skin Spa. We LOVE her and couldn't wait to ask her all about her recent rebranding. If you don't follow her yet, she did an amazing job at creating the perfect boho vibe.
We can't wait to hear what you think of this interview!!
Q: We are so excited to be featuring you for National Esthetician Month!! Can you introduce yourself and how you got started in the industry?
A: Sure! My name is Andrea and I'm an Esthetician and spa owner in Manhattan Beach California. I have two sons and a new puppy! In 2007 I was searching for a new career and one of my passions at the time was makeup so I started exploring how to get training and experience when I came across the term "Esthetician". I had never been to a spa or to an aesthetician but it sounded like an interesting job. I've always loved all thing beauty and love to help others feel good so I decided to take a tour of a school and get more info. I found an amazing school in Costa Mesa California and I signed up! I took classes at night for 8 months. During that time I completely fell in love with giving facials and loved learning about ingredients in skincare products.
After I graduated I decided to rent my own room in a hair salon to see how it would go. I enjoyed it but I knew I needed a more "spa" like environment so I ended up interviewing for a day spa. I got the job and 8 years later I took over the spa!
This January I launched my new brand MB Skin Spa and completely redesigned all the rooms!
Q: That's amazing!!! Can you tell us more about the rebrand? What were your steps? How did you find inspiration? It's literally SO cute and perfect - a total vibe!
A: Thanks! The previous brand really fit the previous owner. I wanted to create a space that reflected my vibe since I spend so much time here but that also would attract the clientele base I wanted. Part of my inspiration came from a trip to Joshua Tree. The cabin I stayed in had a mix of woods, natural tones, and plants. I felt really reflective in that space and I knew I needed to bring some of those elements to the spa. Plants make me so happy and I see a lot of similarity between skin and plants so I have those all over the spa. I love the calming vibe of neutral tones and textures. My treatment room has mood lighting that I change daily to match the energy of that day. It just feels right to me. I take a lot of pride in creating a mood for my clients where they can come to connect deeper to themselves (while I pamper their skin).
As for the rebrand, I let it unfold very organically. I created mood boards on Canva and just kept moving things around until the fonts, colors and mood fit together. I didn't overthink - I just followed my gut. A brand is definitely not just a name, it's a feeling. So I asked myself what was the feeling I wanted to create when clients found me? The same words came up again and again - modern bohemian.
Q: Okay those branding tips are too good. Love that you pulled inspiration from a trip and kind of let things fall into place from there. We also really love that you were thinking about what your dream clientele would be drawn to. We did the same thing when we created My Friends Use This! It's such a good starting point.
If someone is trying to define their brand more, what is one thing you would tell them?
A: Look inward. Let your brand be a reflection of your passion and energy. It will feel more authentic to your clients! And...you'll love it more because it is an extension of you!
Q: So now that you have this beautiful space and super solid brand, what's next for your business? Where do you see MB Skin Spa growing over the next few years?
A: I have such a passion for helping other Estheticians be successful so I hope offer some training and coaching! I also can't wait to formulate some of my own skincare products!
Q: If you had ONE tip for other pros what would it be?
A: To be great at something you have to do that something a lot! So don't be hard on yourself when you're not perfect at something right away. Give yourself space and time to grow!
Q: Where can we find you?
A: On Instagram @mbskinspa and online at www.mbskinspa.com!
]]>When people are spending money on a service, they want that full experience. They want a solid vibe and brand. It will make your business stand out from the crowd and ultimately you will be able to charge more for your services because customers will come to you for that well thought out brand and experience.
We have put together 5 different treatment room mood board for you on Pinterest! These will have decor items, treatment room must haves and unique tools. Here’s the breakdown:
Warm neutrals, lots of texture (all your rattan dreams will come true), beautiful rugs and a mini fridge reno we are obsessing over. It is fun, modern and professional.
Black and white EVERYTHING from tables to towel warmers to art to mini fridges and more. This board is super modern but welcoming. It is a TOTAL VIBE and will make any space feel super upscale.
3. MINIMALISTIC TREATMENT ROOM
Warm neutrals and whites, natural wood, simple, uncluttered space. This is like a modern spa vibe. Super relaxing but really upscale and boujee. Total Leanne Ford vibes here.
I mean...the title pretty much explains itself. ALL THINGS PINK can be found on the board. Tables, gloves, chairs, dried flowers, art, glasses, crystals and more. These pins are more refined, upscale and mature for being totally decked out in pink!
The 70s called and they want their treatment room back...oranges, yellows, patterns, velvet + we are obsessed. An accent wall or statement piece of furniture can go a long way in creating a vibey space and this board is packed with them!
We can’t wait to hear what you think of these treatment room vibes - and be sure to tag us if you pick up any of the items so we can see them in your space!!
]]>One episode we loved was with AJ Organizing! The two women went over all of the things to help organize you business and set yourself up for success. Here are our favorite takeaway points from the episode...
1) refills: do you have a ton of bulk supplies and tools? We are talking tissues, SMA, guaze, cotton rounds, spoolies etc. Keep those refills in a separate area (if you can!) There is totally no need to keep all that extra stock in your treatment room if you have the option to move it somewhere else. This is going to keep your treatment room clean, usable and efficient
PRO TIP FROM EMILY: pick a day of the week (she suggested Friday night) to restock and refill for the upcoming weekend/week and have a designated space to do so
2) small spaces: a lot of the time treatment rooms are SMALL. What can you do to maximize storage space? Take advantage of vertical space especially in cabinets! Try adding more shelves or use risers) or using boxes with lids that can be stacked on top of each other (bonus: you can get a color that matches your aesthetic, they are cost efficient and they can be labeled!)
3) create more space: the more stuff you organize and put away, the more space you will have for the tools you need during a treatment, equipment and décor!
Now that you have everything organized, it's time to style! Make sure you head to our blog post "Let's Get Vibey" for a look at our favorite treatment room décor! Just remember that when you are decorating, keep your necessities easy to access.
What are things that help you stay organized? Tell us in the comments!
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