LETS EXPLORE !!!!!

Are you ready for information entwinded with a little expertise, humor and realization. Then you've come to the right place.

We will "Indulge the Mind, Body and Spirit" with food for thought on various subjects of beauty and well being.

You ask and the spa/salon professionals will answer. No subject is off limits or question to crazy. This is the time to step out the box and relax a little.

Friday, February 4, 2011

Indulgence of the Mind, Body & Spirit: RINGS of FIRE!!!!

Indulgence of the Mind, Body & Spirit: RINGS of FIRE!!!!: "Ladies wearing enhancements, do you have any??? If you are a person that wears or has worn nail enhancements (acrylics), I'm sure some time..."

RINGS of FIRE!!!!

Ladies wearing enhancements, do you have any???

If you are a person that wears or has worn nail enhancements (acrylics), I'm sure some time during your visit to the nail salon you've obtained these badges of honor. If you have not, I applaud your manicurist in her/his skill and promotion of healthy nails.

I find it very interesting, when a nail enhancer comes into the spa for the first time to have either a removal of the existing acrylics or a broke nail repaired. In either case, the client has psyched herself up and is prepared for me to rip the enhancements off only to be disappointed (filing on top of the enhancement ONLY, I reduce to 25%; then soak the remaining off and complete the removal with an orange stick and a hand file).  In most cases the surprise is what is underneath on the nail bed - RINGS of FIRE!!

Rings of Fire are created when an e-file at high speed is use at an improper slant on the natural nail bed. Typically created while attempting to smooth or redefine acrylic around the cuticle area or any where on the nail bed during a fill-in. Generally resembling a half circle (ring).

To take the conversation further, I like to estimate the number of times they had a fill in and the length of time between the services. Once I've explained how and why I know, the questions start and the instruction in "Health Nails 101" begins. Over the past 2 years, the two most frequent comments I have received is; "... is that the reason why my fingers are sore when their finish" and "... is that the reasons my nails are so weak when I take the acrylic off?" Answer: YES and YES.

Rings of Fire can be eliminated by consistent proper use of an e-file on the natural nail and enhancement and/or by hand filing the enhancement by the manicurist. If your manicurist is causing you undue pain, SPEAK UP and request to be filed by hand. If they refuse (1) check to make sure that they are licensed as a manicurist (2) they've had formal training in using the e-file and if not (3) find a manicurist that will respect the request(s), your nails and health.

The need for speed can be pleasant or harmful. You decide.
Information is EMPOWERING!!!!

Monday, January 31, 2011

Nail Spa vs Day Spa! What's the Difference?

Drive down any main street and find a Nail Salon & Spa every 300 to 1000 feet.  Over the last decade the term “SPA” has been used rather loosely in the description of services.  However, a Day Spa is a little harder to find, as they are fewer in numbers.
What’s the difference?  Both are required to be licensed by the state as a cosmetology shop/facility and in most cities, licensed by the city zoning and licensing authority as well.  All persons providing services on a client are required to have completed a formal education or apprenticeship and be licensed by the state and/or certified in their respective area (manicurist, aesthetician, cosmetologist, barber, massage therapist, etc..)
Nail Salon generally employ mainly licensed manicurist (nail tech) and possibly a cosmetologist, may have a limited services menu such as; nail care (manicures, pedicures, nail enhancements).  Some will offer waxing services (eyebrow arching, arms, legs, facial, etc.). Appointments are not required, as 99% of the services are Walk Ins.    The majority of these Salon & Spa cater to women with a small percentage offering services to both men and women.
Day Spa offers a variety of services to promote relaxation, balance of the spirit and enhancement of the body’s natural features and will have refreshments available, for your enjoyment.  Unless otherwise designated, these facilities offer services to men and women via appointment.  A few services may be provided on walk in basis, but should be verified with the respective Day Spa. 
Day Spa and Salon offers services same as or similar to a Day Spa but, with an added twist of a Hair Salon. A full service salon and day spa facility is different from a Hair Salon offering facial and minimal waxing services.
The facility will employ a variety of licensed cosmetology specialist to ensure your relaxation, safety and well being.
·         Aesthetician – a skin care specialist for facials, eyelash application, body waxing, make up artistry, body scrubs and wraps.
·         Manicurist (nail tech) – provides all forms of nail care services inclusive of but not limited to; natural nail care, manicures, pedicures, nail enhancements (acrylics, gels, wraps).
·         Massage Therapist – promotes relaxation, assist in distressing through body massages, reflexology and acupressure techniques. A few massage therapist are trained in providing body scrubs and wraps in conjunction with a massage service.
·         Cosmetologist / Barber – not just a hair stylist but, a connoisseur of hair, nails and skin care.  A cosmetologist is trained and licensed in all three areas and may practice in one or all avenues of client services. A barber has been trained more extensively in the cutting, styling and care of men's hair.

The day spa menu of services may resemble that of a restaurant menu; full bodied and hard to choose from. It may contain four or more types of nail care services, three or more types of facial services, five or more different massages, varies individual and/or couple packages and waxing of body parts (facial, eyebrow, lip, chin, arms, underarms, legs ) and some you may never thought possible (chest, back, bikini, Brazilian).  Some facilities may include amenities such as; hot tubs, sauna, exercise area, Vichy shower).

Most Day Spa’s, like a Resort Spa’s requires an appointment.  An appointment not only reserves a specific time for a particular service space but, also ensures your enjoyment of the services through proper staffing.  If you’re looking for an express or assembly line service, a Day Spa is not the place.  Most services take 60 minutes or more; now add in time for the initial consultation, the enjoyment of available refreshment, prep. time and ending consultation/instruction.  You’ve just pampered yourself for 2 hours or more.    

  YOU DESERVED IT !!
  YOU WILL ENJOY IT !!
  FIND YOUR LOCAL DAY SPA TODAY !!