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By By Joanne Taylor, writer, makeup artist, skincare consultant February 5, 2025
The challenges of taking care of your skin are often a simple lack of putting the time aside. Make it easy on yourself by visiting Glow Spa! For the wintery warm-up, let’s focus on making your feet fabulous, the benefits of using paraffin wax, and the use of hot stones in massage. FAB FEET Did you know there are 26 hardworking bones in your feet which give you mobility? Along with tendons, ligaments, and joints, your feet bear all of your weight, provide agility, and last you your whole life. Be sure to invest in footwear that fits and make your feet a priority. Simple feet exercises like stretching, rising up on toes, and clenching and unclenching toes on a towel, will help them stay flexible and strong. Pay attention to your heels, arch, toes, ankles and keep an eye out for any problems like circulation issues, numbness, swelling, or pain. Be sure to seek out professional help for any worsening symptoms. Cold feet? At Glow Spa, pamper your feet with the renowned Gehwol Warming Cream that creates a warming sensation with its chili and ginger extract. PARAFFIN PERFECTION Caring for your feet can also include the regular use of creams, foot soaks, and massage. If you haven’t already, try paraffin wax for improving your foot health. It increases blood flow which aids in promoting circulation, and as a bonus gives an immediate youthful appearance to skin. Paraffin wax also relieves both soreness and joint stiffness, and both incredibly and instantly, moisturizes skin. Booking a pedicure? Swap out polish for a paraffin treatment and give your nails time to breathe over the winter months by being polish free. SOME LIKE IT HOT Another winter warm-up at Glow Spa includes the use of hot stones in massage. From Hawaii to India, to China to North America, heating smooth stones and positioning them where needed have been used both in history and recently for their healing powers. The hot stones, having absorbed and retained heat, are carefully placed, most commonly, along the lower back, chest, forehead, palms, face, and feet. The combination of heat and massage promotes healing in these areas by increasing blood flow. The heat is also oh-so-soothing, relieving both tension and pain in muscles. The services which contain hot stones include Warm Stone Pedicure, Serenity Now, Custom Aromatherapy Massage, the Hot Stone RMT massage (available in both 60 minutes, and 90- minute treatments) and the Head-to-Toe De-Stresser.  Enjoy a winter warm-up at Glow Spa with paraffin, pampering, hot stones, massage, and more!
By By Joanne Taylor, writer, makeup artist, skincare consultant October 9, 2024
As the autumn months continue, with its brightly changing leaves, and fluctuating temperatures, let’s focus on repairing, rejuvenating, and restoring your skin’s natural glow. With a few tweaks to your skincare routine, you can enjoy both instant results, and long-lasting effects to your skin’s appearance, and overall health. New Deluxe Treatment Kick it off with The Eminence Organics Deep Pore Cleanse & Detox Facial and Refining, Smoothing Enzyme Back Treatment. This deluxe treatment features both charcoal and black seed ingredients which will deeply clean all pores, remove impurities and noticeably brighten your complexion. Activated charcoal has a long history of being used in skincare all around the world, and its purification and de-toxification abilities are legendary. At Glow Spa, in honour of their anniversary, the Eminence facial is followed by a back treatment, using the Amla Berry and the smoothing Mango Enzyme Exfoliant. The treatment will make you feel like a fresh new you, giving your skin much needed hydration, and leaving your skin feel balanced, renewed, and ready to tackle the remainder of the year. Embrace Exercise! Next, add exercise into your daily life. There are many ways of increasing your physical exercise without overwhelming your schedule. From however many minutes you feel capable of, of stretching, to dancing up a storm, to buddying up with a friend and going for an autumn stroll, to swimming at a local pool, to wall Pilates, and more, the limits are endless. Exercising produces endorphins which make you feel good, and bonus, it stimulates blood flow which in turn creates the appearance of glowing, healthy skin. Have you Tried Face Yoga? Face yoga focuses on jowls, laugh lines, the jaw, neck, eyelids, and cheeks. The simple exercises work out muscles in your face generally used for facial expressions. While not clinically proven to be wrinkle erasers, daily face exercise does aid in toning facial muscles, and for less than ten minutes, is a fun way to activate your face at the beginning of the day, or relax and unwind before bed. A few simple exercises for you to try are a) Look into a mirror, and work out your checks with OOOOH’s and AHHHH’s. b) For your tongue, and mouth, lift your tongue up to rest at the top of your mouth. Repeat, as this action lifts your jaw. c) Alternate between smiles and frowns d) Open your eyes wide, while at the same time make a small o with your lips. And hey, you might as well pull a few silly faces while you’re at it, and then finish by gently stretching your neck slightly left and right. Autumn Advice Continue to drink water despite the chilly weather. Try sipping throughout the day from a container holding the recommended 3L of water, and add a diffuser for an extra boost to your immune system. Add in small amounts of fresh vegetables, and fruit, like watermelon or cucumber to flush out toxins, or a mixture of berries for extra antioxidants. At this time of year, pumpkins are showing up everywhere, full of Vitamin A, C, E, and fatty acids. Try eating pumpkin muffins, energy balls, and a simple soup, or nibble on pumpkin seeds to get a boost of minerals and vitamins. Lastly, ensure your laundry is being washing properly without leaving soap residue. This can irritate either your face and/or body skin, particularly if you have eczema or rough skin patches. Be sure to change and launder your pillowcases often, and use a gentle laundry detergent. Enjoy autumn, and as always, be sure to email, call, or come by to find out additional things you can add to your routine. The Glow Spa staff are always delighted to pamper you and your skin!
By By Joanne Taylor, writer, makeup artist, skincare consultant July 12, 2024
INTRO It’s time to celebrate your friendship with facials, so grab your BFF (Best Facial Friend) and bounce on over to Glow Spa! Why not book a spa getaway and get skin summer ready with a smoothing, buffing coconut sugar body scrub with a facial? Together you can escape everyday stresses and enjoy ultimate relaxation. FACIAL TIME IS A SPECIAL TIME Any time you get together with your friends is a good time. Laughing and catching up face to face time beats Facetime any day. And sharing an experience, like a facial, is special because you get the added benefits of self-care, together. Facials improve your skin texture and appearance by using specially designed skincare techniques. They are designed to a) improve absorption of creams and serums b) relieve tension, fatigue, and help rejuvenate you and your skin c) improve your blood circulation d) help rid your skin of dead skin cells and e) give you a radiant glow. Since Glow Spa can accommodate two facials at a time you and your BFF can create a new tradition. Together you can look and feel fresh, youthful, and vibrant! PRODUCTS AND PERFORMANCE The caring experts at Glow Spa quickly learn each of your skin’s needs and determine how best to create radiance. They help you see and feel the results you’re looking for like improved elasticity or lessened fine lines. Optimal, high-quality products are used to perform services (a.k.a. magic) with peak performance. Some of the products used to renew, brighten, and smooth your skin include cleansers, lotions, masques, exfoliants, and gentle eyecare, which all contribute to overall facial effectiveness. Additionally, facial massages, and extractions if needed, are performed. SPECIALIZED SERUMS During facials, serums are used to deliver specialized powerful ingredients directly into the skin based on your individual skincare needs. The concentration of serum makes an immediate difference in your skin’s appearance and texture. Serums currently being used every day in your regular skincare routine can differ from a facial serum, and that’s okay. The skincare expert will analyze and decide which serum which will best suit your skincare needs specifically for the day. This is based on many factors, including weather, time of year, hormones, skincare appearance (which includes colour), and if problem areas need attention. Their trained eye will determine for you and your BFF whether your skin needs tightening, clarity, acne control, a boost of hydration, extra moisture, and more. GET THAT TROPICAL VIBE WITHOUT GOING ANYWHERE The Eminence Coconut Body Treatment exfoliates with natural sugar cane crystals to leave skin smooth, soft and supple, while infusing deep hydration and nourishing aromatic coconut oil. Replenished further with Eminence Coconut Firming Body lotion. Botanical hyaluronic acid and coconut deeply moisturises skin while natural retinol alternative delivers and instant firming action plus lasting age-defying results with Swiss Green Apple stem cells for a smooth and supple skin from head to toe. BONUS QUALITY TIME To add to the stay-cation feeling, enjoy a pre-facial stroll or a bit of shopping. Get a mani-pedi or grab a smoothie and fill your body with much needed nutrients. Be sure to schedule your next facial while you’re there whether it’s twice a year, once a month, or seasonally. We all know life goes quickly, so make the time to achieve skincare goals together, and motivate one another to continue. Snagging a selfie together to show off your post facial glow is a great way to finish off your daytrip. Friends make you feel your best, and facials make your skin feel its best, so pair them up and enjoy a new facial BFF tradition at Glow Spa!
By By Joanne Taylor, writer, makeup artist, skincare consultant December 9, 2023
You’re going on a holiday, and it’s time to get excited! But don’t forget to pack up your skincare so your skin stays happy too. Staying on your regular routine is difficult so let’s adapt it into a simpler routine based on where you’re headed, and customize your skincare accordingly. The Top Five Travel Challenges for Your Skin Your skin is used to a certain amount of pampering that is hard to maintain on holiday. The top five challenges are the disruptions, and dryness of traveling to your destination, the climate change like temperature fluctuations and humidity upon your arrival, the lack of sleep, the change in diet, and the drop in water consumption. Dos and Don’ts Before you start traveling, use an exfoliant to clear any and all dead skin cells which may clog your pores enroute to your holiday destination. Avoid eating salty foods the day before you leave. And drink lots of water. Since skincare at home doesn’t depend on weight, and size remember to switch over to travel size from your favourite trusted brands to help keep both to a minimum. Once you’re on your way, continue to drink water as planes, trains, and hotels can contribute to drying out your skin. Try infusing it with fruit beforehand for an extra dose of antioxidants. Additionally, do remember to care for your lips. Use a soothing lip balm, reapply often, and nourish them with Vitamin E. Do not rub at your skin unnecessarily, or touch it with unclean hands. Avoid caffeine and excess sugar. Do not squint at screens in poor lighting, and check that your prescription is up date for reading glasses if using. Do bring and use a hydration mask, and a trustworthy hand cream. Do consider the Eminence Rosehip Triple C & E Firming oil with Gua Sha available at Glow Spa to soothe, firm and protect your skin. Must-have Skincare for Cold Holidays Winter getaways for skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, skating, tubing, hot-tubbing, and all other cold fun within Canada or other snowy destinations includes both extreme weather and windchill outside, and sitting by a blazing fire inside. Glow Spa suggests being prepared to protect, and soothe your skin for both extremes, using the Dermalogica, Hydration on-the-go Kit. It has a daily calming oat-based exfoliant, hydration serum, and smoothing cream which saves your skin on cold temperature holidays. The Eminence Limited Edition Masque Trio would also suit this type of trip. It includes 3, 15ml masques including Eight Greens Phyto masque, Strawberry Rhubarb masque and Bamboo Age Corrective masque. The extra attention, and hydration will definitely be appreciated by your skin. Indoors, use nourishing products to help skin recover daily. Avoid washing your face with excessively hot water, as warmer temperatures will soothe instead of shock. A serum or boost of hydration on surfaces of skin exposed directly to weather can aid in both replenishing, and repair. Hyaluronic acid which holds more skin are a great addition to your travel bag, as well as sheet masks. Save your Skin on Hot Holidays Whether it’s a Caribbean cruise, each week, or hiking through the rainforest, these are skincare items you need to save your skin from the sun, and heat. Importantly, take good care not to burn your skin, as it can cause short term stress, and long- lasting damage. Wear sunscreen and follow the instructions on the packaging. Be sure to use an SPF rating higher than 30, and use a body product on your body, and a separate sunscreen on the delicate skin of your face. You will need to thoroughly wash your face morning and night to remove all sweat, sunscreen, and makeup. The Dermalogica Discover Healthy Skin Kit available at Glow Spa is considered by Glow Spa staff to be the one you need for hot destinations. There is a Pre-cleanse included which is excellent for removing impurities on your skin, followed by a Special Cleansing gel. Your skin will be rejuvenated by its exfoliant, and moisturizing cream. Luckily, the kit holds about a month’s worth of product so you definitely won’t run short. It's also a great way to try this line of skincare if a hot destination isn’t in your near future. Remember to sip water throughout the day, seek out shade when you can, wear a hat, and protect your eyesight and delicate skin around them, with sunglasses. Rest & Recover to Maintain your Glow Get past the stresses of traveling home by getting back into your regular skincare routine as quickly as possible. Alternate a purifying mask to detox skin, with an exfoliator to battle any clogged pores over the next few weeks. Hang on to your holiday GLOW by resting your skin with extra sleep, and helping in its recovery by using deeply nourishing products. Remember the Glow Spa staff are here for you, and happy to discuss your skincare options for your next trip away.
By Joanne Taylor September 9, 2023
Ready for a skin revolution? Time to try something new? Start by giving your skin a fabulous facial focusing the delicate skin, so desperate in need of special care, and extra attention. The skin is thinner, and works hard at being extremely mobile, transitioning between, and conveying all of our emotional ups and downs. In addition, every-day, all-day, our faces are exposed to the elements, the fluctuating seasonal temperatures, poor air conditions, and pollution, and can leave skin looking stressed. Skin’s Super Power Luckily, skin has a super power, an ability to sense, via peripheral thermoreceptors, temperature change, and can then respond with thermoregulation, the mechanism of temperature fluctuation, which effectively means our skin can sense and respond to temperature change. Heat dilates blood vessels, thereby increasing skin’s blood flow improving circulation, and skin will also respond to cold temperatures by constricting blood vessels, which naturally tightens our skin. What is a Fire and Ice Facial? A Fire and Ice facial uses our skin’s super power of responding to temperature to its full advantage, helping alleviate tension, and a stressed appearance. Not only does it de-toxify, deeply cleanse, aid in circulation, but unclogs pores, tightens skin, and reduces fine lines. Skin is brighter, accompanied with an overall smoother, softer, fresher appearance, while helping to even out skin tone. The Fire and Ice facial is considered one of the most effective facials for achieving skin’s special glow, making it a popular choice for special occasions. The Fire The fire, or heat, in this facial can be simulated by product ingredients as well as temperature. Skin responds by opening pores, making exfoliation more efficient and aiding in deep absorption of product. Circulation improves, and blood flow increases, allowing oxygen and nutrients to move easily through blood vessels. As skin relaxes, and muscle tension eases, the appearance of fine lines is improved. Skin looks radiant, healthy, and bright. The Ice After the heat treatment, a cold treatment dilates blood vessels, shrinking pores which tightens the skin, and reduces inflammation. Cold can be temperature driven such as by ice cubes or cold compress, or simulated by product ingredients, both feeling therapeutic and refreshing, to give your skin the “just-woke-up-happy-feeling.” Fire and Ice Facial The Fire and Ice facial is an Eminence treatment, utilizing the spicy ingredients of cinnamon, paprika and nettle to produce the feeling of warmth. It is a sensory delight, designed to soothe, and relax your skin, while the following ice is a stimulating, cooling sensation achieved with peppermint, cucumber, and menthol. Facials are a boost in taking care of your skin, and help with combating the effects of daily life, and aiding in minimizing the appearance of aging. At Glow Spa, book yourself in to enjoy the experience of both fire, and ice.
By Written by Joanne Taylor, writer, makeup artist, and skincare consultant July 14, 2023
You take excellent care of your skin with morning and evening routines, nourishing products, and by drinking lots of water. Don’t let your hard work go to waste. Take the time to protect your soft, silky, glowing skin from the harsh UV rays of the sun, pollution, and environmental conditions, by regularly applying sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher. Sunscreen should be your best friend. It protects your skin and helps delay aging at the same time. What is Sunscreen, and Why Do You Need It? Sunscreen is a product used to lessen the damage UV rays can cause your skin. Without it, the sun can burn your skin, making it feel sore, angry, and crispy textured. It can also cause peeling, or worse yet, blisters, and charring. Consistent sun damage can cause skin cancers and accelerate aging. In the years before SPF was invented, people used different products to protect themselves. Ancient Greeks, for example, used olive oil (modern day technology identifies this roughly as a protection of SPF 8.) Indigenous people in North America used pine needles and sunflower oil to protect their skin, Hawaiians used coconut oil, while sailors on the open seas wore hats, long sleeves, and pants to cover their skin to protect it. SPF was invented and began selling commercially pre-1950, and is now widely available worldwide in many formulas, brands, and types. What Makes a Good Sunscreen? As time has gone on, sunscreens keep getting better and better. They are created for, and suitable for, any and all skin types. With a regular routine and reapplication according to the instructions on product labels, they literally save your skin. There is yet no such thing as one hundred percent waterproof sunscreen although some are water resistant, so be sure to reapply after swimming or sweating. SPF ratings now come as high as 50, and most people tend to use this. Remember, sunscreen should not be mixed. Do not use expired products as they can put your skin at risk for sunburns. Avoid your eyes, mouth, and open sores. Let’s Compare Mineral and Chemical Sunscreen Mineral sunscreen, also referred to as physical sunscreen, is a physical shield which lies on top of your skin to protect it from the sun. It is a barrier that contains natural minerals like zinc oxide, and titanium oxide, and blocks the sun’s UV rays before they can penetrate the skin. It is effective immediately and is better tolerated by sensitive skin. While older versions of mineral sunscreen tended to leave a white film, or white cast on the skin, it has greatly improved over time. Mineral sunscreen also lasts longer in direct sunlight, though will need to be reapplied as per product directions, generally after two hours, or after swimming or sweating. Chemical sunscreen can include the chemicals octinoxate and avobenzone, which absorb and convert UV rays to heat energy before releasing them from your body. Chemical sunscreen can cause skin irritation to those with sensitivities, and need to be reapplied as necessary, according to box directions. Sunscreen for the Face goes on the Face There are various formulas of sunscreen, targeting both the face and body. The differences in the products rely on the texture and thickness of the sunscreen. Skin on the face is more sensitive and can react differently than the skin on your body. Pores on the face can be blocked more easily and are fragile. Sunscreen for the face also deals with shininess, how compatible it is with makeup, and is usually on the thinner side so it doesn’t feel too thick or gloopy. Always apply sunscreen pre-makeup applications. There is a higher oil content in most body sunscreens and the product tends to be thicker. The UV filt are generally the same, although product size is different with the body product typically coming in a larger container because you use more at a time. Regardless if you are applying sunscreen to your face or body, consistent re-application is crucial to protecting your skin. After-Sun Care Let’s take care of skin after too much sun by using an aloe vera gel or comparable product which will feel cooling, calming, and nourishing. After sun-products should allow the heat from your skin to pass through the product. Avoid products that lock in moisture and avoid heavily fragranced or chemical products which may irritate your skin. In the event you burn yourself, take the time to baby your scorched skin. Use cold compresses and drink lots of water. Do not peel or pop any blisters that may form. Extra Tips and Tricks When applying sunscreen, rubbing in by hand is an effective way of knowing you covered all of your exposed skin. If using spray on sunscreen, take the time to apply the product evenly. Remember to apply sunscreen to the following most commonly forgotten areas: backs of your hands, the sides and back of your neck, your upper chest, your lips, the tops of your ears, and the tops of your feet. If you’re using lightening products to brighten your skin, be sure to apply sunscreen diligently, or you risk the sun counteracting your desired effect and darkening your skin. Any exfoliation on the face or body, whether manual or chemical, removes dead skin cells and exposes fresh, smooth skin in need of protection from the sun. You can also cover up your skin instead of using sunscreen, by wearing long sleeves, pants, and hats. Alternatively, seek shade instead of direct sun. For those who love the look of sun-kissed skin, consider makeup as an alternative to tanning. Tanning is your skin’s reaction to UV rays, and there are countless bronzer brands and formulas that achieve the sun-kissed look without the accompanying damage. You can also consider using readily available self-tanning products. Your skin is at risk, so make the commitment to doing your best with frequent applications, and an SPF rating of 30 plus. Sunscreen may not be sexy, but it will be your best friend, both protecting and preserving your glowing, soft, silky, smooth skin. Discover the latest sunscreens available at Glow Spa.
By Joanne Taylor, writer, makeup artist, and skincare consultant May 3, 2023
Having a facial treatment gives you oh, so glowing, healthy, fabulous looking skin. Part of the fabulousness is the facial massage, which has a long history of boosting circulation, relieving tension, and stimulating the skin, resulting in that much coveted glow. How does a Facial Massage Work? There are many types of facial massages, and they all have similarities which greatly benefit the overall health of your skin. Facial tension contributes to many aspects of the aging process. We often clench our jaws, wrinkle our foreheads, and crunch our eyes, squinting at screens, and creating or deepening existing fine lines and wrinkles. You hold a lot more tension in your face than you realize. Relaxation during a facial treatment, and the gentle releasing of tension in your face through a facial massage, softens the lines and goes a long way in reducing stress. A facial massage works on the pressure points in your face, including the eyebrows, jaw, and neck. This helps what is going on with the muscles beneath the skin, just as much as it does with the elasticity of the skin itself. Benefits of doing a Facial Massage during a Facial Treatment Facial massages are done with oils or lotions. They warm-up the skin, which helps with the absorption of creams and masks. A facial massage includes the skin on the face from the jawline to the forehead, temples, and cheeks. The slow pace of movement and the gentle touch, promotes positive energy in an upward sweeping motion, while pressure applied to the skin improves circulation and increases blood flow. What is a Gua Sha stone? A Gua Sha stone is one of the tools which can be used for facial massage. It is typically made out of a semi-precious stone, like rose quartz. A Gua Sha stone was originally used in an intense scraping action to encourage skin to heal itself, however, the newer trend is a much gentler approach, especially on the face. A Gua Sha stone varies in size and shape, should be well made, and easy to hold in your hand. A facial Gua Sha stone has small edges that are best for the jawline, forehead, cheeks, and around delicate eye area. Gua Sha Stone Benefits and Use During a facial, the Gua Sha stone is used on a clean face after applying a serum, face oil, or a moisturizer of choice, so skin is slippery. When used regularly, a Gua Sha stone can help with lymphatic drainage. A slow lymph system can cause swollen or puffy skin. Using the Gua Sha stone helps move fluids and increase circulation which in turn improves your glow. It also helps relax your stiff facial muscles, and facial tissues, tightens skin, and gives you an overall brighter complexion. Additional Tips, and Tricks The Gua Sha stone should always be kept clean, and dry before using. The stone should be held firmly with the flat part resting on your skin. Extra time can be spent on areas which would benefit, such as knots of tension in the face or neck. Morning usage will reduce puffiness, whereas night usage relaxes your face muscles before sleep. Use the Gua Sha stone three times a week for best results. In all seasons, facial treatments and facial massages at Glow Spa will boost your glow and leave you feeling fabulous.
By Joanne Taylor February 8, 2023
Our eyes are the windows to our souls, and they see the beauty in the world around us, yet they are often overworked, and neglected. All day, every day, our eyes deserve to be treated as special as they are. What Makes the Skin around Eyes so Important? The skin around your eyes is different from the rest of your face. It is delicate, and should always be treated gently. The skin around your eyes is thin and the eye muscles move constantly as they help to convey emotions to others. The eyes, and the skin around them are perhaps the most communicative parts of ourselves, offering smiles, frowns, and a hundred other nuances. It is also affected by the environment we live in, both outdoors and indoors, and affected by our diet, water intake, and light. Where is the Eye Area? The eye area consists of the orbital bone, eyebrow, upper cheekbones, and out to the side where it joins the temple. The eyelid skin is also included in the eye area, and this skin is an even more fragile area. Dark Circles, Puffiness, and More Some of the concerns for eye-care include tired eyes, targeting dark circles, puffiness, fine lines, and wrinkles. Tired eyes can be a combination of factors, both external and internal, including overall stress and lack of sleep, in addition to straining your eyes from computers/screens/poor lighting, or the wrong eye prescription. Tired eyes can strain your eye area by squinting, and accelerating fine lines, and wrinkles. Dark circles extend downwards from the inner corner of eyes in a gray or purplish-black tone. If hereditary, an eye treatment with caffeine or vitamin K can help with circulation (greater blood flow in this area will improve the colour). Poor diet can also contribute to dark circles, lack of water, and a consistent lack of sleep. Excess alcohol can also enhance dark circles, so try to limit your daily intake. Puffiness, especially if it’s more than the eye area that is affected, can be reduced by lowering your salt intake to avoid water retention. Continue to drink your daily required amount of water by sipping throughout the day. Fine lines will noticeably improve with some TLC. Remember to pat gently and not rub the eyes aggressively. Wrinkles, especially crinkle, or smile lines, can be visually improved, or softened, with a regular eye care routine. Wrinkles occur naturally over time so the earlier you commit to taking regular care of this area, the better. Commit to Caring Twice daily action, equalling only a few minutes, can make an immediate difference in the appearance, texture, and feeling of the skin around your eyes. Here’s what to do: in the morning, wash your face as usual, then add an eye cream or gel under your eye, in the area near the outer corner of your eyes, and slightly downwards. Never pull or tug down, use a gentle finger to tap the product on quickly, using a pea-sized amount of product. Do not apply to your lashes. If your lashes are brittle, or hard, be sure all makeup is off, and look into purchasing a special lash conditioner which is sold in a mascara-like tube. At night, remove all makeup with a gentle cleansing product specific to eyes as they are less harsh and should not sting your eye. Pat dry, then apply eye cream or gel. Cream Versus Gel Take time to choose what is best for your skin, or ask Glow Spa staff for an assessment. Generally, eye cream is best for dry skin while eye gel is designed for normal/combination skin. Both differ from face or body moisturizers by containing less concentration of product formula to lessen the risk of eye irritation. If your skin reacts to a product, it could mean there is an ingredient in the formula which triggers a reaction, such as perfume, or simply the concentration is too strong. Carrots and Cucumbers Carrots are extremely nutritious, bursting with beta carotene, vitamin K, and potassium. They also contain lutein (an antioxidant) which improves the overall health of your eyes. Incorporate them into your diet, along with cucumbers. Cucumbers are high in both hydration and antioxidants; leave the peel on and add them into salads, or eat raw. For a quick at home remedy for tired eyes use slices of cucumbers to cool, and hydrate. Chill the cucumbers, and don’t slice them too thin. Lay your head back and put one on each eye. Relax for ten to fifteen minutes, and once they’ve warmed from your body heat, flip them over. Twinkle in Your Eyes For work and play, eyes are using technology at an alarming rate. To avoid eye strain, do regular eye exercises and take frequent breaks from screens. Wearing protective eyewear and using eye drops can protect and relieve dry, itchy eyes. Avoid straining your eyes by squinting, and make sure your eye prescriptions are up to date by visiting an ophthalmologist. In addition to a regular routine, at times your eyes benefit from a little bit of extra attention. When there are sudden changes in health, heightened stress, travel, and seasonal changes, a simple jade roller ball, kept chilled in the fridge, and rolled over the eye area is soothing. Alternatively, try placing a cool cloth on your eyes and taking a five-minute rest by closing both eyes and breathing slowly for temporary relief. Twinkle in Your Eye Try Glow Spa’s Eye Rescue, a $70.00, thirty-minute eye treatment to rehydrate and replenish dry, thirsty skin or the Pro Power Eye Peel, a powerful and gentle eye peel featuring ingredients which encourage cell turnover. Use this concentrated eye patch to brighten the under-eye skin to hep even skin tone, and texture, and minimize the appearance of fine lines, and wrinkles. The Pro Power Eye Peel can be added to any facial, or peel service for only $35.00! You only have one pair of eyes to last your whole life, so Glow Spa is ready to help you establish an excellent and easy eye-care routine.
By Written by Joanne Taylor, writer, makeup artist, and skincare consultant  December 9, 2022
Are you stumped on what gift to give someone special? Are you pressed for time but still want them to know how much you care? Look no further than a collection of self-care products, or a surprise gift certificate from Glow Spa. Here are some suggestions on themed self-care product packages, and also about how to enhance a gift certificate to create an even better surprise! 1 -. Themed baskets, like Glow Spa Bee by the Sea products, can be given with a jar of honey and honey spoon, or with edible honey products, such as honeycomb, or pollen for cooking. 2 - For someone recovering from an illness or a sudden change in their lives, giving a basket of natural foods with healing properties, alongside a gift card for self-care, is a meaningful gift. Foods can include traditional ones like fresh grapes, teas, and honey, or specialty teas. 3 - For quick and easy gifts, choose a manicure or pedicure specific gift certificate, and pair it with a hand or foot cream, scrub brush, loofah, and a soaking bowl. 4 - Gift cards with travel size lotions and cleansers, paired with a sheet mask, are great for both holidays and hospital visits. 5 - Seasonal shower products, or bath oils, accompanied with a candle, or home oil and fragrance is a winner alongside a gift certificate. 6 - Give the gift certificate with flowers, either with or without a vase. Bouquets of flowers, or a single rose with a gift card is an attractive gift. Make it even more special by using the language of flowers. Specific flowers symbolise specific emotions and intentions. For example, red tulips represent true love, pink roses convey happiness, and yellow roses symbolise friendship and joy. By using the symbolic language of flowers, your gift becomes even more thoughtful 7 - A fun way to present a gift card is by putting together products using a colour theme. Fun and fresh food like oranges, or a bag of rainbow gumballs, can be a centrepiece or pop in a pair of fun socks with a pedicure gift card. 8 - The new Eminence strawberry-rhubarb products at Glow Spa can be accompanied with jams, biscuits, and Yorkshire’s new tea, Malty Biscuit which tastes just like tea and biscuits. 9 - A self-care journal and a new pen with a gift certificate for an afternoon at GlowSpa is a thoughtful gift for someone you care for. 10 –Wrap a self-care gift card with comforting blanket, a soft robe, or a reusable hot water bottle cover to cuddle in bed for a special surprise. By giving a Glow Spa gift card you can share your favourite service, spa product, choose something you think they would like to try, or purchase something they already love.  Whether it’s a birthday gift, anniversary, Christmas gift, or simply “just because” the gift of self-care makes everyone feel extra special!
By Recharge Your Routine with Retinol! November 17, 2022
Retinol has a well-deserved reputation for being one of the most powerful formulas out there for your skin. It helps fight wrinkles, brighten dullness, lighten dark spots, and combat acne. Read on to find out how it can recharge your skincare routine. What is Retinol? Retinol is an over-the-counter skin care product which helps combat many skincare issues like acne, dullness, and wrinkles. It is a powerful, yet gentle, and efficient formula derived from vitamin A. Retinol should not be confused with retinoids which can only be prescribed by a dermatologist. Retinoids are generally given for severe acne, or to help with acne scarring. Always consult a dermatologist about retinoid use. And remember, the Glow Spa staff are always on hand to help you assess your skin, and recommend products best for you. Why Should You Use Retinol? There are many reasons to introduce and regularly use retinol in your skin care routine including brightening dullness, clearing acne, fading dark spots, reducing skin discolouration, and combatting fine linesand wrinkles. Remember, our bodies cannot produce vitamin A on their own. Be sure to give your body a boost by eating plant foods high in vitamin A, such as carrots, cantaloupe, and red bell peppers, or animal-sourced foods like fish and eggs. How Does Retinol Work? Retinol goes deeper than the surface layer of your skin. It targets the dermis, boosting production and collagen to create a fuller, plump effect, and help skin with texture and tone. Retinol also helps to unclog pores. If you find your pores are becoming more noticeable because they are becoming clogged with oilor dead skin,you may consider adding retinol into your skincare routine. When to Use Retinol in Your Routine? If you are new to using retinol, start by applying it every third day to monitor how your skin reacts. Redness, bumps, and flakinessare signs you may be using too much retinol, or using it too frequently. Increase use to every other day only if your skin adjusts well. Use small, controlled, pea-sized amounts when applying retinol because a little goes a long way. Retinol takes several weeks of regular use to starting showing its full power, so don’t worry if you don’t see i  mmediate, visible results. Apply retinol at night, and in this order - cleanse, tone, retinol, moisturizer, eye cream, and lip cream unless otherwise directed by Glow Spa staff. What You Need to Remember About Retinol While newer retinol formulas are more efficient, and gentle than in past products, there are several things you need to remember when using retinol, and none are as important as protecting your skin from light. Retinol makes skin lightsensitive, so you must always use retinol at night, and apply SPF in the morning to protect your skin. This is important to dowhether you’re going outside or not. An SPF of 40 or more is recommended. Retinol leaves your skin vulnerable to sun damage unless you protect it. Redness, itchiness, and peeling skin are other side effects of using retinol, though symptoms can be experienced after using too much product, or applying retinol too frequently. Other side effects can include stinging, swelling, or acne flare ups so be sure to follow the guidelines of the retinol product you are using. Discover the right retinol products for you at Glow Spa. The staff will make it easy to get you started with powerful retinol products to recharge your skincare routine.
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