Sometimes the universe delivers exactly what we need when we need it - the perfect little something just for us. Oh hello, Starbucks double stars day; thrilled to see you, open parking spot; it’s been far too long, stunning rainbow. Spring is just that kind of gift– all melting snow, budding leaves, and bright sun – arriving when we can’t stand one more minute of ice, boots or frigid winds. Unfortunately, we’re often so heads-down just trying to make it through the day that we miss the gifts around us. We’re too caught up in moving on to what’s next that we forget to enjoy what’s here.
Enter spring in New England - Mother Nature’s way of reminding us that in this moment there is opportunity. Yup, we’re headed down Metaphor Lane but if you stay with us you won’t be sorry. To make room for daffodils and green grass, layers of snow and ice must first melt away. The same is true for us. Before we can embrace the present some things need to melt away.
How does one actually make that happen? For starters, when you feel better, you do better. Our mission at La Bella Derma is to give you the support you need to feel your best and this month we want to do that by helping you embrace spring’s gifts (however small they may be). So, we’re sharing a few ways to rise above the busy-ness of life because it’s hard to notice the little things when you’re struggling to stay afloat.
Start your day centered - Get up 15 minutes earlier and take a few moments to look out the window, listen to the quiet and center yourself. Don’t check your email or try to get a jumpstart on the tasks you need to accomplish. Just sit and breathe. Ask yourself what you’re grateful for and focus on the abundance (trust us, it’s there). The ripple effects of this small action can change the trajectory of your entire day.
Team tip – A few spritzes of Loutuswei’s Inner Peace or Quiet Mind aura mist is a gentle way to clear the mind.
Scribble Saturday or Sunday - Once a week grab a journal and head to a coffee shop, library, or quiet nook of choice to really check-in with yourself. This is time to sip some tea or your favorite latte and focus on you. How do you feel? What do you want more of? What can you eliminate or stop doing to help you get to where you want to be? Maybe it’s cutting out late night Netflix so you don’t start your day hitting the snooze button. Listen to your inner voice and write down what she says. Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean you’re committing to anything; you’re just listening. Caution – at first your mind will tell you to rush this exercise so you can move on to something more productive (like grocery shopping), but don’t. Instead, get quiet and listen; it’s the only way to become more present. When we take time to uncover what we really want – how we want to feel, how we want to show up, and (this one can be hard) we give ourselves permission to break through everything that’s been insulating us, that’s when we can see the gifts that surround us and bring our own into being.
Team tip – Can’t disconnect enough to hear your inner voice? Try the Destress Express 20-minute boutique treatment, then head to a nearby restaurant or coffee shop (La Bella Derma has plenty within walking distance) to journal. Nothing releases tension and clears your mind quite like our zero gravity recliner and soothing accessories.
Exfoliate (really). Sometimes our work is inside-out and other times it’s outside-in. Remember, when we feel better, we do better. There’s nothing like literally removing dead layers of skin to leave us feeling lighter and open to possibilities. For the body, we suggest using a dry brush a few times a week before hopping in the shower and adding a body scrub like Lather’s Yuzu Sugar Cane. Just don’t use them on your face! We offer a number of treatments and products specifically designed for facial exfoliation. Among them, peels and Vibradermabrasion work wonders to reveal healthy, bright skin after a long winter.
Team tip – Throughout March get a free express facial add-on with any PCA peel. Use the extra downtime to envision how you want to show-up (or zone out and simply enjoy).
Still not sure this will help you enjoy the present? As your mother used to say, just try it! Seriously, the only thing you have to lose is a layer of dead skin. Whether you’re swinging in for a quick brow shaping or enjoying a relaxing massage and body treatment, your time at La Bella Derma is always time well spent. How can we be so sure? Because time dedicated to helping you feel your best is never wasted. Take a look at our service menu or give us a call at 802-735-3031 to speak with a team member about the best treatments for you.
Heather Frechette-Crowley is principal and founder of Root Marketing, where she uses content-based strategy to help businesses of all sizes connect with their target market. Looking for help telling your story? Visit www.rootmktg.com or email heather@rootmktg.com.
Thursday, February 21, 2019
Thursday, January 31, 2019
Four Ways to Beat the Winter Doldrums (Travel Not Required)
Here we are, friends. You survived the holidays and the first month of 2019 – maybe you even made it through #DryJanuary or the Whole30 or J. Lo’s 10-day no carb challenge or some other way to prove that This. Is. The. Year. Or, maybe you just curled up by the fire with a chocolate Santa and pondered how to make snowflakes and reindeer part of your year-round décor. Either way, it’s officially February and time to show yourself some love! Seriously, what’s a New Englander to do when the winter vortex bares down and the groundhog sees his shadow? We’ve got some ideas that will definitely brighten up the winter doldrums.
Stop neglecting your eyebrows! Shakespeare called the eyes a window to the soul, but it’s your brows that set the stage. Just ask anyone who’s been on the receiving end of an over-zealous brow wax, or your friend who had a unique take on the “bold brow” (hint – if you can’t think of one you might have been the friend). The right eyebrow shape can do wonders, basically giving you a non-surgical facelift by detracting from your least favorite features and drawing attention to those you like the most. Add a tint to those brows for the proverbial icing on the cake. Even if you don’t have fair-colored arches, brow tinting adds more structure making you look instantly groomed (especially fabulous for those of us who prefer a natural, sans-makeup look). Tinting also boosts your brow volume as it adheres to tiny, peach-fuzz hairs that sometimes come in blonde. The result? Defined brows that give you a put-together look without the effort. Trust us, a brow shaping and tint combo will have you coming up roses even if you’re still shoveling.
Winter is the best time to take it off. Everyone thinks exfoliation when the weather starts to warm and the winter layers come off but the time to reveal fresh skin is now. Year-round exfoliation is important, but winter’s sub-zero weather creates extra dry skin, making it an ideal time to encourage cell turnover. Enter Vibradermabrasion. Vibro-what? Vibradermabrasion (a.k.a., microdermabrasion’s more refined sister) provides a mild-to-moderate mechanical peel. While both methods remove the top layer of skin (i.e., the epidermis) and stimulate cell turnover, traditional microdermabrasion uses aluminum oxide crystals to sand-blast the skin. Whereas Vibradermabrasion uses paddles covered with fine abrasive particles. The paddles vibrate at sonic speed (for us non-MENSA folks, that’s faster than the speed of sound), dislodging the topmost skin cells. Not only is this method faster, it’s also more comfortable and reduces post-treatment redness. Remind me what this does to my skin? By removing the outer epidermis, fresh skin is revealed and cell turnover is prompted, creating that much sought-after collagen production. And, while beauty may be only skin deep these results aren’t. You’ll immediately see brighter, fresh skin, but the dermis (i.e., the middle layer of skin that provides structural elements like collagen and elastin) receives many longer-term benefits. Plus, skin that has received Vibradermabrasion better absorbs products, allowing for deeper penetration and super charging your skincare regimen long after you leave the spa. The end result is improved appearance of sun-damage, scars, fine lines, acne symptoms, age spots, and hyperpigmentation. Another bonus? The results are cumulative, which means the more treatments you have the greater your results.
Watch this brief (sped-up version) of a Vibradermabrasion treatment.
Need something a tad stronger to brighten your outlook? Look no further than Rezenerate Microchanneling. You’ve probably heard of micro-needling, a treatment that uses steel, acupuncture needles to pierce the skin and create micro-injuries, inducing your natural wound healing response. This is not that treatment…it’s better. Maybe we’re wimps, but micro or not, we’re not keen on skincare treatments that intentionally draw blood. Why would anyone willing subject themselves to that? Chalk it up to our addiction to youth or the Kardashians, but to some the end justifies the means. When skin is kicked into healing mode, collagen and elastin production is stimulated which plumps the skin and improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scars and pores.
You might be thinking, “If we put a man on the moon, surely we can create an alternative to stabbing our face with needles!” And you’d be right. This is where Rezenerate Microchanneling comes in. We like to think of it as providing all of the benefits of micro-needling and none of the blood. How is this possible? Simple – nanotechnology (a.k.a., the study of super small stuff). Instead of piercing the skin with steel needles, Rezenerate Microchanneling uses a chip with microscopic nano-needles (we’re talking 1/3 the diameter of human hair) to create invisible nanochannels without skin trauma or pain. The result? Smoother, more radiant skin; minimized appearance of pores; and a significant reduction in lines, wrinkles, and acne scars. We think the choice is an easy one.
Looking to dial it back? Maybe you’re still feeling a bit woozy from holiday family time and are looking for something a bit more soothing - or just a reason to lay on a heated table under a cozy blanket for 50 minutes (zero judgement here). If this sounds like you, say hello to a custom facial! At La Bella Derma our custom facials are truly customized (#Truth). Our team is able to select products across lines to provide your skin exactly what it needs. These facials are a great way to experience downtime while reaping the benefits of a skin treatment. It’s a win, win - you leave the spa feeling and looking rejuvenated!
February in New England is tough; the holly jolly of December is gone, yet spring still feels too far off. Next to a Caribbean vacation, we think these treatments are a great way to get you through winter’s final chapter. And, to help make the decision an easy one, La Bella Derma is offering a package special on each of these treatments through the month of February (#PackagePalooza). Buy three of the same service and receive one free. Wondering what’s right for you? Stop in or call the spa at 802.735.3031 to speak with a team member – this is what we’re here for!
Heather Frechette-Crowley is principal and founder of Root Marketing, where she uses content-based strategy to help businesses of all sizes connect with their target market. Looking for help telling your story? Visit www.rootmktg.com or email heather@rootmktg.com.
Stop neglecting your eyebrows! Shakespeare called the eyes a window to the soul, but it’s your brows that set the stage. Just ask anyone who’s been on the receiving end of an over-zealous brow wax, or your friend who had a unique take on the “bold brow” (hint – if you can’t think of one you might have been the friend). The right eyebrow shape can do wonders, basically giving you a non-surgical facelift by detracting from your least favorite features and drawing attention to those you like the most. Add a tint to those brows for the proverbial icing on the cake. Even if you don’t have fair-colored arches, brow tinting adds more structure making you look instantly groomed (especially fabulous for those of us who prefer a natural, sans-makeup look). Tinting also boosts your brow volume as it adheres to tiny, peach-fuzz hairs that sometimes come in blonde. The result? Defined brows that give you a put-together look without the effort. Trust us, a brow shaping and tint combo will have you coming up roses even if you’re still shoveling.
Winter is the best time to take it off. Everyone thinks exfoliation when the weather starts to warm and the winter layers come off but the time to reveal fresh skin is now. Year-round exfoliation is important, but winter’s sub-zero weather creates extra dry skin, making it an ideal time to encourage cell turnover. Enter Vibradermabrasion. Vibro-what? Vibradermabrasion (a.k.a., microdermabrasion’s more refined sister) provides a mild-to-moderate mechanical peel. While both methods remove the top layer of skin (i.e., the epidermis) and stimulate cell turnover, traditional microdermabrasion uses aluminum oxide crystals to sand-blast the skin. Whereas Vibradermabrasion uses paddles covered with fine abrasive particles. The paddles vibrate at sonic speed (for us non-MENSA folks, that’s faster than the speed of sound), dislodging the topmost skin cells. Not only is this method faster, it’s also more comfortable and reduces post-treatment redness. Remind me what this does to my skin? By removing the outer epidermis, fresh skin is revealed and cell turnover is prompted, creating that much sought-after collagen production. And, while beauty may be only skin deep these results aren’t. You’ll immediately see brighter, fresh skin, but the dermis (i.e., the middle layer of skin that provides structural elements like collagen and elastin) receives many longer-term benefits. Plus, skin that has received Vibradermabrasion better absorbs products, allowing for deeper penetration and super charging your skincare regimen long after you leave the spa. The end result is improved appearance of sun-damage, scars, fine lines, acne symptoms, age spots, and hyperpigmentation. Another bonus? The results are cumulative, which means the more treatments you have the greater your results.
Watch this brief (sped-up version) of a Vibradermabrasion treatment.
Need something a tad stronger to brighten your outlook? Look no further than Rezenerate Microchanneling. You’ve probably heard of micro-needling, a treatment that uses steel, acupuncture needles to pierce the skin and create micro-injuries, inducing your natural wound healing response. This is not that treatment…it’s better. Maybe we’re wimps, but micro or not, we’re not keen on skincare treatments that intentionally draw blood. Why would anyone willing subject themselves to that? Chalk it up to our addiction to youth or the Kardashians, but to some the end justifies the means. When skin is kicked into healing mode, collagen and elastin production is stimulated which plumps the skin and improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scars and pores.
You might be thinking, “If we put a man on the moon, surely we can create an alternative to stabbing our face with needles!” And you’d be right. This is where Rezenerate Microchanneling comes in. We like to think of it as providing all of the benefits of micro-needling and none of the blood. How is this possible? Simple – nanotechnology (a.k.a., the study of super small stuff). Instead of piercing the skin with steel needles, Rezenerate Microchanneling uses a chip with microscopic nano-needles (we’re talking 1/3 the diameter of human hair) to create invisible nanochannels without skin trauma or pain. The result? Smoother, more radiant skin; minimized appearance of pores; and a significant reduction in lines, wrinkles, and acne scars. We think the choice is an easy one.
Looking to dial it back? Maybe you’re still feeling a bit woozy from holiday family time and are looking for something a bit more soothing - or just a reason to lay on a heated table under a cozy blanket for 50 minutes (zero judgement here). If this sounds like you, say hello to a custom facial! At La Bella Derma our custom facials are truly customized (#Truth). Our team is able to select products across lines to provide your skin exactly what it needs. These facials are a great way to experience downtime while reaping the benefits of a skin treatment. It’s a win, win - you leave the spa feeling and looking rejuvenated!
February in New England is tough; the holly jolly of December is gone, yet spring still feels too far off. Next to a Caribbean vacation, we think these treatments are a great way to get you through winter’s final chapter. And, to help make the decision an easy one, La Bella Derma is offering a package special on each of these treatments through the month of February (#PackagePalooza). Buy three of the same service and receive one free. Wondering what’s right for you? Stop in or call the spa at 802.735.3031 to speak with a team member – this is what we’re here for!
Heather Frechette-Crowley is principal and founder of Root Marketing, where she uses content-based strategy to help businesses of all sizes connect with their target market. Looking for help telling your story? Visit www.rootmktg.com or email heather@rootmktg.com.
Wednesday, January 23, 2019
Just How Super is the GeneO+ Super Facial?
To a 40-something who hasn’t always prioritized her skin health (think Hawaiian Tropic and Sea Breeze astringent) reduced fine lines and wrinkles, smaller pores, and brighter skin is basically the skincare trifecta. So, when La Bella Derma offered to let me experience their new GeneO+ Super Facial that claims to deliver those very results, I was all “Ummm, yes please.”
Owner and Esthetician Extraordinaire, Chelsea Russell, explained that the GeneO+ (pronounced juh-nay-o, so as not to be confused with the brand of turkey) treatment combines microdermabrasion, potent oxygenation, and the collagen-producing power of radio frequency in one super treatment. Sounds impressive, but how exactly does all of that counter years of environmental factors and brow furrowing? I had no idea but was more than willing to find out.
The GeneO+ Super Facial began with a gentle cleanse, which always feels like a treatment in itself when accompanied by an expert facial massage and properly placed bolster. Next, the smooth NeoReviveTM gel was gently brushed over my face. (Note – depending on your primary concern, you can choose NeoRevive to focus on anti-aging or NeoBright™ to address skin tone)
Once the gel was applied, Chelsea glided the GeneO’s handheld wand in circular motions across my face, explaining that I would soon feel a gritty texture. Two seconds later, in a move straight out of Harry Potter, the gel turned gritty beneath the wand and started to foam. Hello, oxygenation! It felt so neat it made me wish I had paid more attention in science class. When a thick layer of foam had formed, it was gently removed and massaged back into my skin with the wand for deeper penetration. This step not only added to my relaxation, it also helped to seal in anti-aging ingredients like Kojic Acid, Azelaic Acid and Retinol. Truly living up to its name, every element of the GeneO+ Super Facial multitasks. This step not only exfoliates, but also infuses oxygen into the skin to stimulate cell renewal.
My skin felt clean and tight, and I wasn’t done yet. Next up – radio frequency, but not the scary sci-fi kind. It was more of the don’t-feel-a-thing-but-magically-takes-away-wrinkles kind. In fact, if Chelsea hadn’t described what she was doing I would never have known. Another gel, this one with aloe vera for added hydration, was applied to create a conductive medium for the radio frequency (RF) waves. I felt a gentle, warming sensation as the wand moved over my face and I grew more relaxed. Tricky things those RF waves; though I couldn’t feel it, they were busy at work stimulating collagen production, tightening tissue and retracting the skin (sorry wrinkles, not sorry).
A few minutes later, a firm shoulder massage indicated that my treatment had come to an end. Now, I’m generally in no hurry to hop off the treatment table but I was excited to see my GeneO+ Super Facial results, so to the mirror I ran. I immediately noticed that my skin wasn’t just bright, it was flippin’ glowing! It looked tight and smooth, and the prominent lines on my forehead weren’t nearly as deep as they had been an hour earlier. In short, it was rather uh-mazing.
In fact, the next morning my skin looked even better thanks in part to all of the nutrients it absorbed overnight. Sometimes we endure discomfort and downright pain in the name of beauty (looking at you, electrolysis). Trust me when I tell you this is not one of those times. This treatment is relaxing and literally has zero downtime (the pics are proof). And, while it results in an immediate difference, the effects are cumulative so the more treatments you get the better your skin will look.
For more information or to book your GeneO+ Super Facial click here. Still have questions? Stop by the spa or call 802.735.3031 to speak with a team member.
Heather Frechette-Crowley is principal and founder of Root Marketing, where she uses content-based strategy to help businesses of all sizes connect with their target market. Looking for help telling your story? Visit www.rootmktg.com or email heather@rootmktg.com.
Owner and Esthetician Extraordinaire, Chelsea Russell, explained that the GeneO+ (pronounced juh-nay-o, so as not to be confused with the brand of turkey) treatment combines microdermabrasion, potent oxygenation, and the collagen-producing power of radio frequency in one super treatment. Sounds impressive, but how exactly does all of that counter years of environmental factors and brow furrowing? I had no idea but was more than willing to find out.
The GeneO+ Super Facial began with a gentle cleanse, which always feels like a treatment in itself when accompanied by an expert facial massage and properly placed bolster. Next, the smooth NeoReviveTM gel was gently brushed over my face. (Note – depending on your primary concern, you can choose NeoRevive to focus on anti-aging or NeoBright™ to address skin tone)
Once the gel was applied, Chelsea glided the GeneO’s handheld wand in circular motions across my face, explaining that I would soon feel a gritty texture. Two seconds later, in a move straight out of Harry Potter, the gel turned gritty beneath the wand and started to foam. Hello, oxygenation! It felt so neat it made me wish I had paid more attention in science class. When a thick layer of foam had formed, it was gently removed and massaged back into my skin with the wand for deeper penetration. This step not only added to my relaxation, it also helped to seal in anti-aging ingredients like Kojic Acid, Azelaic Acid and Retinol. Truly living up to its name, every element of the GeneO+ Super Facial multitasks. This step not only exfoliates, but also infuses oxygen into the skin to stimulate cell renewal.
My skin felt clean and tight, and I wasn’t done yet. Next up – radio frequency, but not the scary sci-fi kind. It was more of the don’t-feel-a-thing-but-magically-takes-away-wrinkles kind. In fact, if Chelsea hadn’t described what she was doing I would never have known. Another gel, this one with aloe vera for added hydration, was applied to create a conductive medium for the radio frequency (RF) waves. I felt a gentle, warming sensation as the wand moved over my face and I grew more relaxed. Tricky things those RF waves; though I couldn’t feel it, they were busy at work stimulating collagen production, tightening tissue and retracting the skin (sorry wrinkles, not sorry).
A few minutes later, a firm shoulder massage indicated that my treatment had come to an end. Now, I’m generally in no hurry to hop off the treatment table but I was excited to see my GeneO+ Super Facial results, so to the mirror I ran. I immediately noticed that my skin wasn’t just bright, it was flippin’ glowing! It looked tight and smooth, and the prominent lines on my forehead weren’t nearly as deep as they had been an hour earlier. In short, it was rather uh-mazing.
In fact, the next morning my skin looked even better thanks in part to all of the nutrients it absorbed overnight. Sometimes we endure discomfort and downright pain in the name of beauty (looking at you, electrolysis). Trust me when I tell you this is not one of those times. This treatment is relaxing and literally has zero downtime (the pics are proof). And, while it results in an immediate difference, the effects are cumulative so the more treatments you get the better your skin will look.
For more information or to book your GeneO+ Super Facial click here. Still have questions? Stop by the spa or call 802.735.3031 to speak with a team member.
Heather Frechette-Crowley is principal and founder of Root Marketing, where she uses content-based strategy to help businesses of all sizes connect with their target market. Looking for help telling your story? Visit www.rootmktg.com or email heather@rootmktg.com.
Tuesday, January 1, 2019
Five Things to STOP Doing in 2019
Ahh, the start of a new year! The turning of a new page, a fresh slate, 12 months of possibility ahead. While December is the season of sugar cookies and peppermint martinis, we welcome January with snug waistbands and a list of ways to improve. Well not this year folks. Nope. We think you’re fantastic just the way you are, and rather than add things to your must-do-list, we’re taking them off. That’s right – here are five things to STOP doing in 2019:
1. Using pore strips. Sure, you get a satisfying sense of accomplishment when you pull it off and see the forest of debris that was clogging your pores moments before. But they don’t really help and, in some instances, may actually harm your skin. Say what? How can removing that gunk from your pores not be helping? Stay with us – blackheads form when the opening of a hair follicle becomes clogged with dead skin cells and oil. This gunk gets oxidized by the air and appears black (hence the name). The strips only adhere to the top layer, which includes healthy skin cells, and this is what you see upon the grand reveal. In other words, strips only remove the top of the blackhead and may actually irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin. Because you’re only removing the superficial level, it won’t take long for the blackheads to reappear. To effectively treat blackheads schedule a facial with extractions. (Bonus – this is waaaaaay more relaxing than multi-tasking with a hardening strip on your nose.) To help prevent blackheads, which is really the goal, make sure you’re using the right products.
Tip – using a product with salicylic acid penetrates the inside of pores instead of just the top layer and promotes skin turnover to prevent future blackheads.
2. Exfoliating with apricot scrub ASAP. We know, you’ve been using this cult classic since high school and nothing leaves your face feeling as baby smooth, so why the lack of love? The very ingredients that leave your skin feeling smooth as a baby’s bottom - crushed walnut shells and apricot granules - are actually creating micro-tears. The scrubbing beads aren’t spherical and their rough edges can rip or stretch the pores, creating sensitivity and leaving the skin open for infection. Now we’re not suggesting that you stop exfoliating altogether (in fact, we’ve extolled the virtues of exfoliation here and here), but we are lovingly urging you to put down the apricot scrub and stop in for suggestions on a safer alternative.
3. Skipping sunscreen. Sure, it might be frigid and a shade of gray outside, but that doesn’t mean you can skip sunscreen. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or heading into the office, SPF is a must. Why? For starters, UVA rays can penetrate glass (freaky, huh?). While UVB rays are mostly blocked by glass and clouds, 50-60% of UVA rays go right through windows. So, even if you’re cozy and snug inside, you’re still at risk for sun damage. Plus, while it might not feel like it, those of us in the northern hemisphere are closest to the sun about two weeks after the winter solstice (i.e., now). Combine this with the fact that the ozone layer - the earth’s sunscreen- is at its thinnest between December and March and you’ve basically got the perfect storm less George Clooney and Mark Wahlberg. Fortunately, many skincare products, such as PCA’s Hydrator Plus moisturizer, contain SPF which make it easy to add protection.
https://www.who.int/uv/publications/en/UVIGuide.pdf
4. Following the same skincare regimen year-round. For some, this suggestion will be the toughest because change can be hard. (We still haven’t gotten over the fact they switched out Aunt Viv midway through the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.) But change can also be necessary and beautiful. As the seasons change so do our skin’s needs. Don’t be scared - we’re not backing out on our promise to lighten your to-do list! The fact is, you probably don’t need a complete regimen overhaul. Maybe you just need to swap nighttime moisturizers to quench your thirsty skin or switch your daily serum. Similar to muscle memory (i.e. the reason three sets of 15 reps doesn’t work forever), your skin benefits from periodic product changes. Not sure what you need? Book a free skincare consult or stop into the spa to speak with the La Bella Derma team.
5. Putting off self-care. Not only is putting off self-care so 2015, it’s also the opposite of self-love, light and all things beautiful you promised to bring into the new year. Once seen as a sign of success, busy-ness and the incessant striving that often accompanies it have taken a toll on our bodies and minds, but regular self-care is the antidote. Believing that self-care is more than a buzzword is a start, but only those that put it into practice reap the benefits. Just like scheduling the gym increases the likelihood of you actually going, putting self-care in your calendar is key to making it a reality. As silly as it sounds, sometimes (ok, most of the time) we need to schedule self-care and protect it like that doctor’s appointment it took you six months to get. We know how easy it is for other things to creep in when there doesn’t seem to be anything on the line (except our mental and physical health). We get it – the struggle is real, which is why La Bella Derma created a membership program. This isn’t your jelly-of-the-month club folks, it’s a way for you to prioritize yourself (plus save money, gain access to cool events, and more) and commit to making self-care happen.
There you go – five things to stop doing in 2019! And, because we’re givers, here’s a bonus time-saver: stop using mascara. Whaaaaat? For many of us, going without mascara is akin to grocery shopping naked (it’s not going to happen). We love the little pop that mascara gives our eyes (a spa favorite is Blinc tube mascara), but we also love getting out the door on time. Enter eyelash tinting. While it doesn’t add length, lash tinting is great for an everyday natural look. Bonus – you’ll have time to stop by Starbucks on your way to work, which is really a bonus for everyone.
Remember, the La Bella Derma team is here to make your life easier. Stop by the spa or give us a call today at 802.735.3031. Happy New Year – we can’t wait to share 2019 with you!
Heather Frechette-Crowley is principal and founder of Root Marketing, where she uses content-based strategy to help businesses of all sizes connect with their target market. Looking for help telling your story? Visit www.rootmktg.com or email heather@rootmktg.com.
1. Using pore strips. Sure, you get a satisfying sense of accomplishment when you pull it off and see the forest of debris that was clogging your pores moments before. But they don’t really help and, in some instances, may actually harm your skin. Say what? How can removing that gunk from your pores not be helping? Stay with us – blackheads form when the opening of a hair follicle becomes clogged with dead skin cells and oil. This gunk gets oxidized by the air and appears black (hence the name). The strips only adhere to the top layer, which includes healthy skin cells, and this is what you see upon the grand reveal. In other words, strips only remove the top of the blackhead and may actually irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin. Because you’re only removing the superficial level, it won’t take long for the blackheads to reappear. To effectively treat blackheads schedule a facial with extractions. (Bonus – this is waaaaaay more relaxing than multi-tasking with a hardening strip on your nose.) To help prevent blackheads, which is really the goal, make sure you’re using the right products.
Tip – using a product with salicylic acid penetrates the inside of pores instead of just the top layer and promotes skin turnover to prevent future blackheads.
2. Exfoliating with apricot scrub ASAP. We know, you’ve been using this cult classic since high school and nothing leaves your face feeling as baby smooth, so why the lack of love? The very ingredients that leave your skin feeling smooth as a baby’s bottom - crushed walnut shells and apricot granules - are actually creating micro-tears. The scrubbing beads aren’t spherical and their rough edges can rip or stretch the pores, creating sensitivity and leaving the skin open for infection. Now we’re not suggesting that you stop exfoliating altogether (in fact, we’ve extolled the virtues of exfoliation here and here), but we are lovingly urging you to put down the apricot scrub and stop in for suggestions on a safer alternative.
3. Skipping sunscreen. Sure, it might be frigid and a shade of gray outside, but that doesn’t mean you can skip sunscreen. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or heading into the office, SPF is a must. Why? For starters, UVA rays can penetrate glass (freaky, huh?). While UVB rays are mostly blocked by glass and clouds, 50-60% of UVA rays go right through windows. So, even if you’re cozy and snug inside, you’re still at risk for sun damage. Plus, while it might not feel like it, those of us in the northern hemisphere are closest to the sun about two weeks after the winter solstice (i.e., now). Combine this with the fact that the ozone layer - the earth’s sunscreen- is at its thinnest between December and March and you’ve basically got the perfect storm less George Clooney and Mark Wahlberg. Fortunately, many skincare products, such as PCA’s Hydrator Plus moisturizer, contain SPF which make it easy to add protection.
https://www.who.int/uv/publications/en/UVIGuide.pdf
4. Following the same skincare regimen year-round. For some, this suggestion will be the toughest because change can be hard. (We still haven’t gotten over the fact they switched out Aunt Viv midway through the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.) But change can also be necessary and beautiful. As the seasons change so do our skin’s needs. Don’t be scared - we’re not backing out on our promise to lighten your to-do list! The fact is, you probably don’t need a complete regimen overhaul. Maybe you just need to swap nighttime moisturizers to quench your thirsty skin or switch your daily serum. Similar to muscle memory (i.e. the reason three sets of 15 reps doesn’t work forever), your skin benefits from periodic product changes. Not sure what you need? Book a free skincare consult or stop into the spa to speak with the La Bella Derma team.
5. Putting off self-care. Not only is putting off self-care so 2015, it’s also the opposite of self-love, light and all things beautiful you promised to bring into the new year. Once seen as a sign of success, busy-ness and the incessant striving that often accompanies it have taken a toll on our bodies and minds, but regular self-care is the antidote. Believing that self-care is more than a buzzword is a start, but only those that put it into practice reap the benefits. Just like scheduling the gym increases the likelihood of you actually going, putting self-care in your calendar is key to making it a reality. As silly as it sounds, sometimes (ok, most of the time) we need to schedule self-care and protect it like that doctor’s appointment it took you six months to get. We know how easy it is for other things to creep in when there doesn’t seem to be anything on the line (except our mental and physical health). We get it – the struggle is real, which is why La Bella Derma created a membership program. This isn’t your jelly-of-the-month club folks, it’s a way for you to prioritize yourself (plus save money, gain access to cool events, and more) and commit to making self-care happen.
There you go – five things to stop doing in 2019! And, because we’re givers, here’s a bonus time-saver: stop using mascara. Whaaaaat? For many of us, going without mascara is akin to grocery shopping naked (it’s not going to happen). We love the little pop that mascara gives our eyes (a spa favorite is Blinc tube mascara), but we also love getting out the door on time. Enter eyelash tinting. While it doesn’t add length, lash tinting is great for an everyday natural look. Bonus – you’ll have time to stop by Starbucks on your way to work, which is really a bonus for everyone.
Remember, the La Bella Derma team is here to make your life easier. Stop by the spa or give us a call today at 802.735.3031. Happy New Year – we can’t wait to share 2019 with you!
Heather Frechette-Crowley is principal and founder of Root Marketing, where she uses content-based strategy to help businesses of all sizes connect with their target market. Looking for help telling your story? Visit www.rootmktg.com or email heather@rootmktg.com.
Thursday, November 29, 2018
A Few of Our Favorite Things
A Few of Our Favorite Things
(Hint – they’re even better than warm woolen mittens and whiskers on kittens)
It’s here, it’s here, it’s finally here – the most wonderful time of the year! Whether you’ve been counting down the days until it’s socially acceptable to hang your wreath or are more of a grin-and-eggnog-it type, there’s sure to be some gift exchanging going on before you ring in the New Year.
Regardless of where on the seasonal spectrum you fall, no one wants to be that harried shopper searching the gas station for last-minute gifts (frankly, no one wants to be on the receiving end either), so we’ve pulled together a few of our favorite things to point you in the right direction.
First on our list is Côte Nail Polish - the perfect stocking stuffer for all of the mani/pedi lovers in your life! Who doesn’t like the look of a shiny manicure, especially during party season? All Côte polishes are free of the major toxins often associated with other brands. This means chip-resistant, fabulous color without things like DBT (a plasticizer used in car interiors), formaldehyde (a known carcinogen), or parabens (linked to hormone disfunction). You get extra points for delivering a good-for-you gift they’ll actually use! Insider Note: Chelsea especially loves the peace-of-mind using Côte gives her while she’s expecting baby #2.
For your friends who receive proactive skincare treatments like chemical peels and microdermabrasion (Yeah, them!), we have just the thing – PCA Silkcoat Balm. Nothing soothes post-treatment skin better than this powerful, non-greasy moisturizer that contains jojoba seed oil and hydrolyzed silk (actual silk protein). It’s also our #1 recommended product for clients experiencing retinol-related dryness. Silkcoat Balm is the ultimate treatment for dry and/or mature skin, as well as skin exposed to cold climates (Hello, New England!).
Next up is another good-for-you gift they’ll use every day – Intelligent Nutrients Harmonic® Shampoo. This non-toxic, antioxidant shampoo gently cleans without stripping hair’s natural emollients. It removes buildup caused by styling products and chemical treatments. It also contains Intelligent’s Minty Destress Express® aroma guaranteed to kick-start the day with a stimulating tingle. And, for those mornings that require a triple venti, Harmonic Shampoo can double as a body wash to perk you up until that caffeine is in hand. Additionally, its natural, potent ingredients mean that a little goes a looooong way, making it the gift that keeps on giving! FYI – La Bella Derma carries two sizes, so be sure to pick one up for yourself (even dedicated elves need a good tingle).
Pro Tip – Those who regularly use products such as hair spray and dry shampoo, or
body-building formulas can get a deeper clean by leaving the suds in a bit longer.
Need a great gift for your uber-busy friend who swears she would take better care of her skin if she only had the time? Slip a PCA Pigment Bar under her tree. Formulated for the face and body with Azeliac and Kojic acid to promote an even skin tone and niacinamide for hydration, the Pigment Bar doubles as a mask that’s safe to use daily (apply it at the bathroom sink before your shower routine, then rinse – voilà, mask complete). Plus, its yummy rosewood oil is a natural antidepressant that’s basically guaranteed to make you smile with each use. And, thanks to its unique packaging, this cleansing bar-in-a-jar stays more sanitary than other soaps in the shower (plus, it comes with its own sponge for application). It’s like a gift inside a gift.
For the bath lover in your life you can’t go wrong with Epicuren After Bath. This moisturizer’s 50/50 blend of lotion and oil allows it to literally glide on and soak into your skin, providing the perfect level of hydration. And, because it’s non-greasy, it won’t stain your clothes or sheets. After Bath is available in a number of naturally-derived scents (in-house favs include Orange Blossom and Kakui Coconut) and comes in two sizes, which is essentially permission to gift one to yourself!
Pro Tip - Apply while still in the shower, before toweling off, to make the product go further and allow deeper penetration.
Have someone on your list who needs a little something extra in their skincare regimen? Wow them this year with Kerstin Florian’s Rejuvenating Firming Extract. Known for her holistic approach to skincare, Kerstin Florian’s products are inspired by nature and its intrinsic connection to health and wellness. This intensive serum contains a blend of herbs and botanicals that rejuvenates skin on the cellular level. The result? Firmness is restored, pores are minimized, and those pesky signs of aging are diminished. Could gifting this be construed as somewhat passive-aggressive? Perhaps, but once they see the results, they’ll be wondering what took you so long. Insider Note: Chelsea loves the natural scent of this product and how quickly it soaks into the skin.
Almost as mystical as Santa Claus himself, Laurel Healing Balm Face & Body is a modern-day cure-all. This hard-working balm remedies almost any skin ailment – yup, there is almost no one who wouldn’t benefit (including those hard-to-buy-for, has-everything people on your list). Using the power of whole plants to address the body’s chronic inflammation, Laurel Healing Balm treats everything from extreme cases of eczema, dermatitis and cystic acne, to sensitive allergy-prone skin, and the occasional cut or scrape. It reduces the appearance of redness, swelling, and irritation while jump starting and supporting the skin’s own healing process. Insider Note: Chelsea calls this her “miracle salve,” and relies on it to treat hormonal acne brought on by pregnancy. She also gives it her Mom Seal of Approval, noting it was the only cure for the facial eczema her young daughter experienced last winter. Plus, she loves the glow it gives her skin beneath makeup!
Pro Tip: Use twice the suggested amount as a massage medium and give yourself a mini at-home facial; leave the excess on as an overnight mask and wake-up feeling
merry and bright with improved skin.
‘Tis the season for all the sparkles – from party dresses to statement bling, seasonal festivities have us adding glow all over, especially when it comes to the eyes. Whether it’s intense, glittering shadow, multiple coats of mascara or thick liner, everything is holly and jolly until you’re desperately trying to wash it off without fracturing your eye sockets. Enter Epicuren Crystal Clear Eye Makeup Remover. Not only does this velvety, fragrance-free gel easily remove even the most dazzling eye makeup, it also delivers peptides and vitamins to strengthen eyelashes and nourish the fragile skin around the eye area.
Pro Tip: Leave on for up to one-minute to easily wipe away stubborn waterproof makeup. This product can also be used alone as a lash conditioning treatment for those who are prone to brittle lashes related to lash extensions or drying mascaras.
Have any stocking stuffers or Secret Santa gifts to buy? Of course, you do! (Think your hairdresser, mail carrier, dog walker, favorite barista.) All too often these items end up last on our holiday shopping list. Sure, they’re likely smaller, less expensive gifts, but that doesn’t mean they should be purchased en route to the company party or limited to what’s within arm’s reach at the check-out aisle. Since you’re going to spend your hard-earned money, why not spend it on something useful…and lovely (a.k.a. something you would like to receive)? Laurel Citrus Lip Treatment makes a great stocking stuffer or Secret Santa gift because no matter who you are, winter brings dry lips (yup, even to Angelina Jolie). This 100% whole plant organic balm is pure enough to satisfy even your most consumer conscious pals, and it combines the calming scent of lavender with phytonutrients to provide intense conditioning to chapped lips.
LATHER aromatherapy candles are another gift perfect for your Secret Santa and stocking stuffer needs. Available in a variety of scents from the festive cranberry orange and clove to lavender lime and lemon vanilla, these 4 oz. candles check all the boxes – 100% soy wax that burns toxin- and carcinogen-free? Check. Made without paraffins? Check. Pure essential oil blends? Check. Wicks that are 100% spun cotton and primed in beeswax? Double check. These are perfect for creating a relaxing tub-side ambience or setting the stage for holiday guests and at just $10 each, we suggest choosing a few (they also make delightful host(ess) gifts).
There you have it folks – 10 of our favorite spa products. Not only are they all available at La Bella Derma, but each was handpicked (and is currently used) by Owner and Esthetician Extraordinaire, Chelsea Russell, so you know they meet tough, real-life, mommapreneur standards. We also want to remind you that there’s no shame in giving a La Bella Derma gift card, because sometimes the best gift is the gift of choice. Got a mile-long list and a time crunch? We’d love to help! Stop into the spa or give us a call today at 802.735.3031.
Heather Frechette-Crowley is principal and founder of Root Marketing, where she uses content-based strategy to help businesses of all sizes connect with their target market. Looking for help telling your story? Visit www.rootmktg.com or email heather@rootmktg.com.
(Hint – they’re even better than warm woolen mittens and whiskers on kittens)
It’s here, it’s here, it’s finally here – the most wonderful time of the year! Whether you’ve been counting down the days until it’s socially acceptable to hang your wreath or are more of a grin-and-eggnog-it type, there’s sure to be some gift exchanging going on before you ring in the New Year.
Regardless of where on the seasonal spectrum you fall, no one wants to be that harried shopper searching the gas station for last-minute gifts (frankly, no one wants to be on the receiving end either), so we’ve pulled together a few of our favorite things to point you in the right direction.
First on our list is Côte Nail Polish - the perfect stocking stuffer for all of the mani/pedi lovers in your life! Who doesn’t like the look of a shiny manicure, especially during party season? All Côte polishes are free of the major toxins often associated with other brands. This means chip-resistant, fabulous color without things like DBT (a plasticizer used in car interiors), formaldehyde (a known carcinogen), or parabens (linked to hormone disfunction). You get extra points for delivering a good-for-you gift they’ll actually use! Insider Note: Chelsea especially loves the peace-of-mind using Côte gives her while she’s expecting baby #2.
For your friends who receive proactive skincare treatments like chemical peels and microdermabrasion (Yeah, them!), we have just the thing – PCA Silkcoat Balm. Nothing soothes post-treatment skin better than this powerful, non-greasy moisturizer that contains jojoba seed oil and hydrolyzed silk (actual silk protein). It’s also our #1 recommended product for clients experiencing retinol-related dryness. Silkcoat Balm is the ultimate treatment for dry and/or mature skin, as well as skin exposed to cold climates (Hello, New England!).
Next up is another good-for-you gift they’ll use every day – Intelligent Nutrients Harmonic® Shampoo. This non-toxic, antioxidant shampoo gently cleans without stripping hair’s natural emollients. It removes buildup caused by styling products and chemical treatments. It also contains Intelligent’s Minty Destress Express® aroma guaranteed to kick-start the day with a stimulating tingle. And, for those mornings that require a triple venti, Harmonic Shampoo can double as a body wash to perk you up until that caffeine is in hand. Additionally, its natural, potent ingredients mean that a little goes a looooong way, making it the gift that keeps on giving! FYI – La Bella Derma carries two sizes, so be sure to pick one up for yourself (even dedicated elves need a good tingle).
Pro Tip – Those who regularly use products such as hair spray and dry shampoo, or
body-building formulas can get a deeper clean by leaving the suds in a bit longer.
Need a great gift for your uber-busy friend who swears she would take better care of her skin if she only had the time? Slip a PCA Pigment Bar under her tree. Formulated for the face and body with Azeliac and Kojic acid to promote an even skin tone and niacinamide for hydration, the Pigment Bar doubles as a mask that’s safe to use daily (apply it at the bathroom sink before your shower routine, then rinse – voilà, mask complete). Plus, its yummy rosewood oil is a natural antidepressant that’s basically guaranteed to make you smile with each use. And, thanks to its unique packaging, this cleansing bar-in-a-jar stays more sanitary than other soaps in the shower (plus, it comes with its own sponge for application). It’s like a gift inside a gift.
For the bath lover in your life you can’t go wrong with Epicuren After Bath. This moisturizer’s 50/50 blend of lotion and oil allows it to literally glide on and soak into your skin, providing the perfect level of hydration. And, because it’s non-greasy, it won’t stain your clothes or sheets. After Bath is available in a number of naturally-derived scents (in-house favs include Orange Blossom and Kakui Coconut) and comes in two sizes, which is essentially permission to gift one to yourself!
Pro Tip - Apply while still in the shower, before toweling off, to make the product go further and allow deeper penetration.
Have someone on your list who needs a little something extra in their skincare regimen? Wow them this year with Kerstin Florian’s Rejuvenating Firming Extract. Known for her holistic approach to skincare, Kerstin Florian’s products are inspired by nature and its intrinsic connection to health and wellness. This intensive serum contains a blend of herbs and botanicals that rejuvenates skin on the cellular level. The result? Firmness is restored, pores are minimized, and those pesky signs of aging are diminished. Could gifting this be construed as somewhat passive-aggressive? Perhaps, but once they see the results, they’ll be wondering what took you so long. Insider Note: Chelsea loves the natural scent of this product and how quickly it soaks into the skin.
Almost as mystical as Santa Claus himself, Laurel Healing Balm Face & Body is a modern-day cure-all. This hard-working balm remedies almost any skin ailment – yup, there is almost no one who wouldn’t benefit (including those hard-to-buy-for, has-everything people on your list). Using the power of whole plants to address the body’s chronic inflammation, Laurel Healing Balm treats everything from extreme cases of eczema, dermatitis and cystic acne, to sensitive allergy-prone skin, and the occasional cut or scrape. It reduces the appearance of redness, swelling, and irritation while jump starting and supporting the skin’s own healing process. Insider Note: Chelsea calls this her “miracle salve,” and relies on it to treat hormonal acne brought on by pregnancy. She also gives it her Mom Seal of Approval, noting it was the only cure for the facial eczema her young daughter experienced last winter. Plus, she loves the glow it gives her skin beneath makeup!
Pro Tip: Use twice the suggested amount as a massage medium and give yourself a mini at-home facial; leave the excess on as an overnight mask and wake-up feeling
merry and bright with improved skin.
‘Tis the season for all the sparkles – from party dresses to statement bling, seasonal festivities have us adding glow all over, especially when it comes to the eyes. Whether it’s intense, glittering shadow, multiple coats of mascara or thick liner, everything is holly and jolly until you’re desperately trying to wash it off without fracturing your eye sockets. Enter Epicuren Crystal Clear Eye Makeup Remover. Not only does this velvety, fragrance-free gel easily remove even the most dazzling eye makeup, it also delivers peptides and vitamins to strengthen eyelashes and nourish the fragile skin around the eye area.
Pro Tip: Leave on for up to one-minute to easily wipe away stubborn waterproof makeup. This product can also be used alone as a lash conditioning treatment for those who are prone to brittle lashes related to lash extensions or drying mascaras.
Have any stocking stuffers or Secret Santa gifts to buy? Of course, you do! (Think your hairdresser, mail carrier, dog walker, favorite barista.) All too often these items end up last on our holiday shopping list. Sure, they’re likely smaller, less expensive gifts, but that doesn’t mean they should be purchased en route to the company party or limited to what’s within arm’s reach at the check-out aisle. Since you’re going to spend your hard-earned money, why not spend it on something useful…and lovely (a.k.a. something you would like to receive)? Laurel Citrus Lip Treatment makes a great stocking stuffer or Secret Santa gift because no matter who you are, winter brings dry lips (yup, even to Angelina Jolie). This 100% whole plant organic balm is pure enough to satisfy even your most consumer conscious pals, and it combines the calming scent of lavender with phytonutrients to provide intense conditioning to chapped lips.
LATHER aromatherapy candles are another gift perfect for your Secret Santa and stocking stuffer needs. Available in a variety of scents from the festive cranberry orange and clove to lavender lime and lemon vanilla, these 4 oz. candles check all the boxes – 100% soy wax that burns toxin- and carcinogen-free? Check. Made without paraffins? Check. Pure essential oil blends? Check. Wicks that are 100% spun cotton and primed in beeswax? Double check. These are perfect for creating a relaxing tub-side ambience or setting the stage for holiday guests and at just $10 each, we suggest choosing a few (they also make delightful host(ess) gifts).
There you have it folks – 10 of our favorite spa products. Not only are they all available at La Bella Derma, but each was handpicked (and is currently used) by Owner and Esthetician Extraordinaire, Chelsea Russell, so you know they meet tough, real-life, mommapreneur standards. We also want to remind you that there’s no shame in giving a La Bella Derma gift card, because sometimes the best gift is the gift of choice. Got a mile-long list and a time crunch? We’d love to help! Stop into the spa or give us a call today at 802.735.3031.
Heather Frechette-Crowley is principal and founder of Root Marketing, where she uses content-based strategy to help businesses of all sizes connect with their target market. Looking for help telling your story? Visit www.rootmktg.com or email heather@rootmktg.com.
Tuesday, October 30, 2018
Self-care: More than a buzzword
Self-care is the new yoga; everyone wants to do it, but most of us aren’t sure how. The concept is simple – take care of yourself – but the term has become trendier than non-dairy milk. It’s thrown around so much we’re left wondering what it really is (same with hemp milk).
Part of the reason self-care is hard to define is because it’s different for everyone, changing daily based on a number of variables - your current level of caffeination, how much sleep you’ve gotten, how loudly your children and/or colleagues are screaming – you get the point.
While we’re still looking into hemp milk, we can tell you that self-care is about integrating self- compassion into your daily life to prevent burnout (emphasis on prevent). Unfortunately, too many of us put off self-care until we’ve reached the point of no return, also known as “That time my Mom / Sister / Wife / Friend lost her mind.”
The repercussions of neglecting yourself are far reaching. When we choose to push through, buck up, and soldier on we become the customer not-so-silently fuming in the Starbucks’ line (How does he not know what’s in a damn smoothie?), the employee that gets the entire office sick right before Thanksgiving, and the parent who forgets pajama day. Why? Because proper self-care helps to insulate us from the side effects of stress like sickness, impatience, forgetfulness, and negativity. Bottom line? Self-care is the best preventative medicine around. It’s not a reward; it’s a necessity. That’s right, SELF- CARE IS A NECESSITY. Write it on a post-it or tattoo it on your arm, but make this your mantra.
You might be wondering why, if self-care is as important as the bold and italics indicate, we have such a hard time doing it regularly. Here’s the tricky part, self-care doesn’t always feel good in the moment. Think getting up at 5 am to go to the gym or passing on that second serving of molten chocolate cake. Sure, you feel great after you get your sweat on or arrive home with your pants still zipped, but sometimes what’s in your best interest doesn’t immediately make your heart sing.
While we agree with the experts on the benefits of daily movement, deep breathing and gratitude journaling, we also know that there are times when an inspirational day planner doesn’t cut it. Between family obligations, checking your credit card statement for erroneous charges and getting ready for the holidays (yup, we just went there), sometimes you simply need a little pampering to re-charge. Of course, a full day at the spa would do the trick, but what if you don’t have that kind of time? Enter La Bella Derma’s Boutique Spa Treatments.
Designed specifically for those in need of a quick respite, Boutique Spa Treatments take place in a semi- private treatment room where you’ll relax in a zero gravity recliner and feel the weight of the world slide away – literally. With treatments ranging from the 20-minute Destress Express (think cozy blankets, warmed eye pillow and booties) to a Gemstone Glow-n-Go Facial and everything in between, there’s a treatment to fit your schedule - you can even leave with whiter teeth in 30 minutes! Regardless of how much time you can spare, you will walk out feeling cared for which will allow you to be the best version of yourself. Ready to make yourself a priority? Check out La Bella Derma’s membership program. It’s the perfect way to keep yourself on the calendar!
To fully actualize the benefits of self-care, it should be incorporated it into your daily routine. Right about now you’re probably thinking, “Easier said than done,” but stay with us. Since we can’t squeeze more minutes into the day we need to be intentional about how we spend the ones we have. For example, your morning routine sets the tone for the day, so make the most of it. Don’t just jump into the shower. Ease yourself into the morning by using a LATHER body wash and/or body scrub. With scents like Mangosteen & Green Tea, Bamboo Crème and Yuzu Sugar Cane you might forget it’s only Wednesday. And, while you’re rinsing off go ahead and remind yourself just how flippin’ awesome you are.
For bonus points and a glowing complexion, slather on a facial mask while you’re mid-suds. Just make sure to keep your face out of the water stream so the mask can work its magic. Our favs include Epicuren’s Pumpkin Apple Spice Peel that dissolves dead skin cells and promotes clarity and Laurel’s Honey Berry Enzyme Facial Mask which exfoliates and hydrates.
Since we’re talking suds, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the power of a warm bath. From helping you sleep better to easing muscle aches, baths can provide the solitude you need to recoup from a long day. To boost your luxury level and achieve ultimate relaxation, we recommend adding a handful of LOTUSWEI bath salts. Each of the all-natural bath salts comes with a downloadable mediation created to help you release tension and negative emotions. Pro tip – keep the water warm, not hot and limit your time to 15 minutes. Too long in the tub can actually lead to a breakdown of skin, which is definitely not a sign of self-care.
Of course, no shower or bath would be complete without a moisturizing finale. Try Epicuren’s line of aptly named After Bath moisturizer. Made with natural emollients and available in scents like Tahitian Vanilla and Kukui Coconut, this all-over body lotion seals in moisture without a greasy trail. For more intense moisturizing, choose LATHER’s Pure Shea Butter which will leave even the roughest heels and elbows silky smooth.
Moral of the story? You are Uh-Mazing, so act like it. Don’t even think about saving the good cleanser, lotion, or bath salts for a special occasion, or waiting for the next wedding invite to book a facial. You need to practice self-care Every. Single. Day. To encourage you to prioritize yourself La Bella Derma is raffling off a $100 gift card for use on treatments and products. Earn entries throughout the month of November for each appointment held, re-booking made, and membership purchased. Not sure where to start? We’re here to help; give us a call today at 802.735.3031.
Heather Frechette-Crowley is principal and founder of Root Marketing, where she uses content-based strategy to help
businesses of all sizes connect with their target market. Looking for help telling your story? Visit www.rootmktg.com or email
heather@rootmktg.com.
Part of the reason self-care is hard to define is because it’s different for everyone, changing daily based on a number of variables - your current level of caffeination, how much sleep you’ve gotten, how loudly your children and/or colleagues are screaming – you get the point.
While we’re still looking into hemp milk, we can tell you that self-care is about integrating self- compassion into your daily life to prevent burnout (emphasis on prevent). Unfortunately, too many of us put off self-care until we’ve reached the point of no return, also known as “That time my Mom / Sister / Wife / Friend lost her mind.”
The repercussions of neglecting yourself are far reaching. When we choose to push through, buck up, and soldier on we become the customer not-so-silently fuming in the Starbucks’ line (How does he not know what’s in a damn smoothie?), the employee that gets the entire office sick right before Thanksgiving, and the parent who forgets pajama day. Why? Because proper self-care helps to insulate us from the side effects of stress like sickness, impatience, forgetfulness, and negativity. Bottom line? Self-care is the best preventative medicine around. It’s not a reward; it’s a necessity. That’s right, SELF- CARE IS A NECESSITY. Write it on a post-it or tattoo it on your arm, but make this your mantra.
You might be wondering why, if self-care is as important as the bold and italics indicate, we have such a hard time doing it regularly. Here’s the tricky part, self-care doesn’t always feel good in the moment. Think getting up at 5 am to go to the gym or passing on that second serving of molten chocolate cake. Sure, you feel great after you get your sweat on or arrive home with your pants still zipped, but sometimes what’s in your best interest doesn’t immediately make your heart sing.
While we agree with the experts on the benefits of daily movement, deep breathing and gratitude journaling, we also know that there are times when an inspirational day planner doesn’t cut it. Between family obligations, checking your credit card statement for erroneous charges and getting ready for the holidays (yup, we just went there), sometimes you simply need a little pampering to re-charge. Of course, a full day at the spa would do the trick, but what if you don’t have that kind of time? Enter La Bella Derma’s Boutique Spa Treatments.
Designed specifically for those in need of a quick respite, Boutique Spa Treatments take place in a semi- private treatment room where you’ll relax in a zero gravity recliner and feel the weight of the world slide away – literally. With treatments ranging from the 20-minute Destress Express (think cozy blankets, warmed eye pillow and booties) to a Gemstone Glow-n-Go Facial and everything in between, there’s a treatment to fit your schedule - you can even leave with whiter teeth in 30 minutes! Regardless of how much time you can spare, you will walk out feeling cared for which will allow you to be the best version of yourself. Ready to make yourself a priority? Check out La Bella Derma’s membership program. It’s the perfect way to keep yourself on the calendar!
To fully actualize the benefits of self-care, it should be incorporated it into your daily routine. Right about now you’re probably thinking, “Easier said than done,” but stay with us. Since we can’t squeeze more minutes into the day we need to be intentional about how we spend the ones we have. For example, your morning routine sets the tone for the day, so make the most of it. Don’t just jump into the shower. Ease yourself into the morning by using a LATHER body wash and/or body scrub. With scents like Mangosteen & Green Tea, Bamboo Crème and Yuzu Sugar Cane you might forget it’s only Wednesday. And, while you’re rinsing off go ahead and remind yourself just how flippin’ awesome you are.
For bonus points and a glowing complexion, slather on a facial mask while you’re mid-suds. Just make sure to keep your face out of the water stream so the mask can work its magic. Our favs include Epicuren’s Pumpkin Apple Spice Peel that dissolves dead skin cells and promotes clarity and Laurel’s Honey Berry Enzyme Facial Mask which exfoliates and hydrates.
Since we’re talking suds, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the power of a warm bath. From helping you sleep better to easing muscle aches, baths can provide the solitude you need to recoup from a long day. To boost your luxury level and achieve ultimate relaxation, we recommend adding a handful of LOTUSWEI bath salts. Each of the all-natural bath salts comes with a downloadable mediation created to help you release tension and negative emotions. Pro tip – keep the water warm, not hot and limit your time to 15 minutes. Too long in the tub can actually lead to a breakdown of skin, which is definitely not a sign of self-care.
Of course, no shower or bath would be complete without a moisturizing finale. Try Epicuren’s line of aptly named After Bath moisturizer. Made with natural emollients and available in scents like Tahitian Vanilla and Kukui Coconut, this all-over body lotion seals in moisture without a greasy trail. For more intense moisturizing, choose LATHER’s Pure Shea Butter which will leave even the roughest heels and elbows silky smooth.
Moral of the story? You are Uh-Mazing, so act like it. Don’t even think about saving the good cleanser, lotion, or bath salts for a special occasion, or waiting for the next wedding invite to book a facial. You need to practice self-care Every. Single. Day. To encourage you to prioritize yourself La Bella Derma is raffling off a $100 gift card for use on treatments and products. Earn entries throughout the month of November for each appointment held, re-booking made, and membership purchased. Not sure where to start? We’re here to help; give us a call today at 802.735.3031.
Heather Frechette-Crowley is principal and founder of Root Marketing, where she uses content-based strategy to help
businesses of all sizes connect with their target market. Looking for help telling your story? Visit www.rootmktg.com or email
heather@rootmktg.com.
Wednesday, September 26, 2018
All About Pumpkin
The air has finally turned crisper and the trees have begun to shed their leaves. Love it or hate it, fall is officially here and that means pumpkin. Who are we kidding? September 1 st means pumpkin. Pumpkin season might be nestled between Labor Day and Thanksgiving, but this powerful ingredient can hold its own year-round. This fabulous fall fruit (yup, it’s a fruit) is full of naturally occurring enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Like Beyoncé and Jay-Z, these ingredients are mighty on their own, but when they come together they’re a real power couple, making pumpkin one of nature’s most effective exfoliants. And, as we learned in September’s article, when done regularly exfoliation is your friend – your very best friend.
While pumpkin’s enzymes help to break down oil and other pollutants that lead to clogged pores and breakouts, AHAs create a brighter complexion by increasing cell turnover. Can it get any better? It sure can! Pumpkin also contains vitamins A, C, E and zinc, which nourish skin and protect against free radicals that can contribute to irritation and aging. Now, as much as we would love to tell you that pumpkin spice lattés and pie are the best ways to reap the benefits of this vine fruit, we could never lie to you like that. By all means order a venti PSL and have an extra slice of pie, but if you’re looking to boost your complexion these treatments and products are your best bet.
PCA’s Pumpkin Enzyme Peel is one of La Bella Derma’s most requested fall peels (but it’s available year- round!). This nutrient-rich treatment combines pumpkin enzymes and salicylic acid with a number of purifying and antioxidant ingredients. This (Dare we say “magical”?) mix of ingredients makes it a great treatment for skin marred by acne, sun damage, or the general effects of aging. You’ll leave with smooth, glowing skin and possibly a hankering for the classic, It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!
To enhance and maintain the effects of a spa peel or complement your current regimen, bring the power of pumpkin home. Incorporating pumpkin’s enzymes and exfoliating properties into your regular skincare routine diminishes scars, age spots, fine lines, and discoloration. You’ll love the results and the aroma, so take a closer look at the products highlighted below.
PCA’s Nutrient Toner is not the astringent toner of yesteryear. This pumpkin wine-based toner is suitable for all skin types, particularly those looking to address visible signs of aging or prevent them (i.e. everyone). Fun fact - when fermented into wine, pumpkin releases multiple nutrients and antioxidants that act as skin super boosters. Pumpkin? Wine? Nutrients? What’s not to love? Not only does this toner refine the appearance of pores and remove dead skin cells, it also reduces the risk of blemishes and other impurities by providing gentle exfoliation to create a healthy glow. Bonus – PCA’s Nutrient Toner incorporates the light aroma of cloves, which may give you visions of sugarplums while the leaves are still falling (don’t say we didn’t warn you).
Epicuren’s Pumpkin Apple Spice Peel makes us want to curl up in a cozy blanket with a hot cuppa something – but not before we spread on a dime-sized dollop. This at-home peel combines mild pumpkin and apple enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells and promote clarity. And, because pumpkin helps to normalize oil production and promote cell turnover, it reduces the appearance of pore size leaving your complexion younger and more refined. Feel free to stay curled up in that blanket after your 3-7 minutes are over!
Fall is arguably our shortest and sweetest season. Use autumn’s bounty to prepare your skin for the inevitably looong winter months ahead. Take advantage of our October special and book a PCA Pumpkin Enzyme Peel today or stop in to speak with a team member about the best products for your skin this fall. Remember, just like the seasons, your skin changes throughout the year and your skincare routine should too. Our team is here to help, so give us a call at 802.735.3031.
Heather Frechette-Crowley is principal and founder of Root Marketing, where she uses content-based strategy to help
businesses of all sizes connect with their target market. Looking for help telling your story? Visit www.rootmktg.com or email
heather@rootmktg.com.
PCA’s Pumpkin Enzyme Peel is one of La Bella Derma’s most requested fall peels (but it’s available year- round!). This nutrient-rich treatment combines pumpkin enzymes and salicylic acid with a number of purifying and antioxidant ingredients. This (Dare we say “magical”?) mix of ingredients makes it a great treatment for skin marred by acne, sun damage, or the general effects of aging. You’ll leave with smooth, glowing skin and possibly a hankering for the classic, It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!
To enhance and maintain the effects of a spa peel or complement your current regimen, bring the power of pumpkin home. Incorporating pumpkin’s enzymes and exfoliating properties into your regular skincare routine diminishes scars, age spots, fine lines, and discoloration. You’ll love the results and the aroma, so take a closer look at the products highlighted below.
PCA’s Nutrient Toner is not the astringent toner of yesteryear. This pumpkin wine-based toner is suitable for all skin types, particularly those looking to address visible signs of aging or prevent them (i.e. everyone). Fun fact - when fermented into wine, pumpkin releases multiple nutrients and antioxidants that act as skin super boosters. Pumpkin? Wine? Nutrients? What’s not to love? Not only does this toner refine the appearance of pores and remove dead skin cells, it also reduces the risk of blemishes and other impurities by providing gentle exfoliation to create a healthy glow. Bonus – PCA’s Nutrient Toner incorporates the light aroma of cloves, which may give you visions of sugarplums while the leaves are still falling (don’t say we didn’t warn you).
Epicuren’s Pumpkin Apple Spice Peel makes us want to curl up in a cozy blanket with a hot cuppa something – but not before we spread on a dime-sized dollop. This at-home peel combines mild pumpkin and apple enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells and promote clarity. And, because pumpkin helps to normalize oil production and promote cell turnover, it reduces the appearance of pore size leaving your complexion younger and more refined. Feel free to stay curled up in that blanket after your 3-7 minutes are over!
Fall is arguably our shortest and sweetest season. Use autumn’s bounty to prepare your skin for the inevitably looong winter months ahead. Take advantage of our October special and book a PCA Pumpkin Enzyme Peel today or stop in to speak with a team member about the best products for your skin this fall. Remember, just like the seasons, your skin changes throughout the year and your skincare routine should too. Our team is here to help, so give us a call at 802.735.3031.
Heather Frechette-Crowley is principal and founder of Root Marketing, where she uses content-based strategy to help
businesses of all sizes connect with their target market. Looking for help telling your story? Visit www.rootmktg.com or email
heather@rootmktg.com.
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