Simply Skin & Laser

2012-01-26T20:38:00.001-08:00

Welcome to the new blog layout! We hope you enjoy.

Skin Fact

2011-11-04T06:03:00.000-07:00

Dead skin cells make up about 90 percent of household dust! EEWWWWWW!

Novemeber: National Healthy Skin Month!!

Welcome November--National Healthy Skin Month!!

2011-11-03T06:37:00.000-07:00

Did you know that November is National Healthy Skin Month???? Well, now you do!!!

Treat Your Skin As The Weather Gets Colder

Hydrate Your Skin:
Many people find their skin to be especially dehydrated in the fall. The reason often is because our skin adjusted itself to more humidity in the air during the summer months. Now, as we spend more time indoors during the fall, temps have dropped and the air is more dry, it causes our skin can become extra dry. An easy solution us to use a hydrating moisturizer in the morning and evening.

Repair Sun Damage

Your skin received the majority of sun damage during the summer months, and after the winter we had last year, I agree, those warm rays of the sun did feel amazing, but they unfortunately did damage to our skin. Get a microdermabrasion or glycolic peel. Use products that contain Vitamin C, my favorite, Vital C Anti-Aging Serum or Vital C Repair Cream!! Vitamin C is the best thing to use on sun-damaged skin because it will create new skin and start the process of shedding some of the summer's sun-exposed skin!

Use Products W/Good Ingredients

Recommended fall skin care products are those that contain glycolic acid or hyaluronic acid. The acids cushion and hydrate the skin, which will deliver a smoother look and feel.

This November...Love Your Skin!!!

Happy Halloween!!!

2011-10-31T06:25:00.000-07:00

The big day is here...COSTUMES & CANDY DAY! Halloween has always been a favorite holiday at my house. This year I'm sad, my girls are growing up and I have no one to take trick or treating...I'm not as excited about staying home to hand out candy, boring! But I might as well enjoy my last day of candy eating, because starting tomorrow it's time to be good until the next holiday...Thanksgiving! So, happy candy day, have fun treat or treating!!

Last Possible Day for Fall Leaves???

2011-10-24T06:06:00.000-07:00

If you love fall colors like I do...today may be your last day!!! Take a quick drive up the canyon and experience one of my favorite things of living in Utah...the gorgeous fall leaves!! My favorite drive is the Alpine Loop starting in Provo canyon and ending down American Fork canyon.

October--National Candy Month!!

2011-10-19T06:56:00.000-07:00

As a self-proclaimed sugar addict, I am glad I finally I don't have to feel guilty about my candy splurges!!! I have to admit, I'm much better than I used to be. I don't HAVE to buy a candy bar at every check-out line. I still want to, I just am better at exercising self-control! But, here is a easy way to eat your chocolate yet still keep your calories in check!

A new study was just published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Assoc, researchers found that people who were served 20 candy halves ate about the same number of pieces as those given 20 whole ones--but they consumed less calories. The take-away: When it comes to snacks, size does matter. So munch on M&M's minis or mini candy treats, trying to go easy on full-sized versions and you may feel satisfied w/less.

Let me know how that works for you! Happy Halloween/Candy Month!!

A New Season--Time for New Make-Up!

2011-10-13T08:12:00.000-07:00

Well, it's mid-Oct and I guess we are officially into Fall, the summer glow is fading and I feel like I'm over due for check up at my favorite make-up counter! I've been a fan of Bare Essentials for years and I would pick it up at either Nordstrom or Sephora...but now we have our own Bare Escentuals Boutique at the University Mall. (Located by Eddie Bauer)

My daughter and I visited their new boutique for the 1st time last week and worked with a darling make-up artist, Tonya. Tonya color matched my daughter for the season and was so helpful with any concerns, issues and make-up questions. She was NOT pushy or over the top sales person, so nice! If you are still using drugstore liquid make-up, do us both a favor and STOP! I LOVE mineral makeup, it is SO much better for your skin, especially if you have problem skin. And it lasts much longer, so in the end it is more cost effective. So here's my advice, head to Bare Escentuals and "Get your Face Fall Ready"!!!

Fall Facial Featuring our Pumpkin Scrub!!!

2011-10-12T13:04:00.000-07:00

If you're like me, I love everything fall, pumpkin desserts, fresh apples, fall leaves....the list goes on and on!!! This month come in an experience the ultimate fall facial...first we'll exfoliate your skin with a microdermabrasion, getting rid of all that summer sun damage, then we layer the skin with a relaxing and delicious smelling pumpkin scrub...the perfect way to FACE a new season looking your best!!!

October Special $40 Call now to schedule your appt 801.427.6895!

Who Wants Luscious Lashes??? EVERYONE!!

2011-06-23T16:12:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves beautiful lashes....they open your eyes and make you look more youthful. We have two easy ways to get luscious lashes...

Lash Extensions OR Newly released Revitalash Advanced

This summer make life easier by getting lash extensions...you can either do a full set or sassy set of mink lashes. They are natural looking and perfect for someone who wants to hit the pool, gym or vacation this summer w/out the hassle of putting on eyemake-up. You wake up and "you're ready to go"!

Summer Lash Extension Special: $60 full set $40 sassy set or fill

If lash extensions aren't "your thing" the next best thing is Revitalash. They just released a new advanced version this month at the Esthetics Show in Las Vegas. You apply it everynight on lash line (or if you are kinda lazy like me, in the morning after my shower) and watch your lashes grow like you never thought they could!!! A tube lasts for about 5 months...you'll start to notice a difference in 2 weeks and in 6-8 weeks, wow, look out!!!! Add a lash tint and you're ready to go!!!

Summer Special on Revitalash $75 ($98 Value)

These specials are a limited time offer, so act quick. Call now to schedule a lash extension appt or order your tube of Revitalash!!!

Who says you can't look fabulous at Lake Powell while on the boat or camping in the Unitas!

Dr. Amen--Change Your Brain, Change Your Body!!!

2011-03-14T15:32:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite shows is going to air on KUED on Tues, March 15th at 7pm (channel7)!!!

Some of you may have heard me talk about Dr. Amen, his approach to food and how it affects our brain and our body! He is amazing...he makes me work harder at eating better. It is because of him that I am "trying" to break my sugar addiction!!! It's soooo hard. Whenever he is one, I watch it again, I need all the motivation I can get.

If you have time, I strongly encourage you to watch it, or at least record it on your dvr/tivo and watch it later!!! It's so good! I'd really hate to see what my brain looks like right now. Sunday is our "make a yummy dessert day", we made chocolate cupcakes with mint filling and chocolate frosting...I ate too many!!! If you do watch it, let me know what you think.

Right now, I'm reading "The China Study", a client recommended it to me....I post more on that later....but very eye-opening....this one may be a life-changer!!!

Update on Olay Brush....

2011-03-14T13:07:00.000-07:00

Okay....so I'm still loving my Olay cleansing brush, but a word of warning, proceed w/caution. I was using my cleansing brush 1-2 times a day...can you say "overboard"??? Well after a week, my skin is showing the effects of too much of a good thing. My skin is very flaky and dry, so I would recommend only using 2-3 times a week....

Since then I've given myself a 50% Lactic/Kojic peel, so I will take at least a week off and then start again!!!

If you have questions before buying your own Olay Cleansing Brush, feel free to email me!!

Have a great day!!!

New Cleansing Brush...I like it!

2011-03-09T09:52:00.000-08:00

I have to admit, I've always wanted to purchase a Clarisonic Cleansing Brush...but I've had a hard time getting over the $195+ price tag.

VS.

Well, recently I noticed that Olay launched a cleansing brush of their own...only $30 and available at Walgreeen, Walmart, etc. At first I was skeptical....would it cleanse as well as the pricier version??? I also, had to get over my aversion of OTC products. As a trained and licensed Master Esthetician, I am a big believer in professional products vs. products sold in the big box stores!!!

So I did a little research...and then decided to buy...I saved my receipt and will submit w/my taxes, I consider it research so I can inform my clients on whether they should spend their $30 or save for the big-bang product.

Click on review if you want to read one of the reviews I found online.

Here's what I found....I like it....really like it! My skin feels, softer and less dry. It's a great exfoliator. My skincare products seem to penetrate better and maybe it's hopeful thinking, but I'm sure my skin is much more glowy!!! It has 2 speeds, I use the slower speed under my eyes...my husband thinks the faster speed is too iritating for his skin, but he's not as tough as most women. (One year I told him for his bday I was giving him a rejuvenating facial laser treatment....oh yah, that's a story for another day!!!!) The biggest difference between Olay and Clarisonic is that Olay only spins in 1 direction, where Clarisonic rotates in either direction. The Olay cleansing brush did come w/an exfoliating cleansing scrub...but I have only used it with my favorite products...Image! Also, I just keep it on the ledge in my shower....I makes me excited to cleanse my face!!! Gotta love that!

Final Decision....Like It!!!!

I made a "Shoe Connection"!!!

2011-03-05T14:29:00.000-08:00

The Runner's Corner in Orem may have saved me! One day I had an after lunch appt cancel, so with an extra long lunch in my favor, I decided to drop by "The Runner's Corner, something I've been meaning to do for several months and hadn't taken the time to do. I was a little intimidated at first, the store really looked like a place for pro-runners, I definitely did not belong here. I met the owner, Hawk, a super nice guy...explained my (old woman) foot issues to him and after spending an hour with him, he had me outfitted w/some new shoes!!! He had me run for him...of course at first I was mortified...me, run, outside, in my skinny jeans, people might see me...but I got over myself and I ran. I must of tried out 10 different types of running shoes...learned that for my problem, I had to lace/tie them a special way and even though I'm a size 6 1/2 shoe...I needed a size 8 running shoe!!! That also freaked me out! As the typical woman, I always have issues with numbers....whether they are on the scale, on calories listed, on clothes and yes, I guess shoes, call me crazy. Again, I got over myself and now I am running in a SIZE 8!

I found a few shoes that would work for me...but some of them were to crazy for my conservative self. Hawk said that finding the right pair of running shoes is like finding a mate. At the end of my hour of trying on shoes, running in them, I finally found my mate...they are actually the shoes pictured at the start of my blog. I want to give Hawk a HUGE thanks for all the time/energy he spent with me, he was the best. I never felt as though he was out for a sale, but only there to help me!!! I was so impressed and I recommend them to anyone who is looking for the PERFECT MATE shoes!!! I have actually taken my new shoes to the indoor track a few times now....so far....we're a match!!!

p.s. Hawk, next time, I'm going for the neon pink!!!

Running....it's a love/hate thing!

2011-03-03T14:05:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, my 1st choice of exercise is lounging by the pool reading a book, but since that doesn't really count as exercise I guess I'd have to choose running. It's easy, pretty inexpensive, no special equipment is needed and I can get it done without going to a gym (I always been an anti-gym gal). Since I live in Utah, I usually take a BIG break on the exercise thing from the end of fall until Spring arrives. I know, pretty whimpy! Especially since last year there was not spring, basically winter until the 11th of June! But this year, I found out that our local rec center only charges $.50 to use the indoor track...it's actually a pretty nice track and it doesn't stink, so I'm not counting it as a gym. So I starting running again the last week of Feb...that is really early in the season for me!!! Luckily, I have several clients that are "real runners" and give me all kinds of motivating advice and make me want to be a "real runner". That's why my 1st book on my current reading list is, "Born to Run", so far, it's pretty good.

My biggest challenge with running....I have a bad foot, and it can be very painful for me to run. I even had considered giving up running this year and to start biking, but then I would have to do the expensive equipment thing.... but last week I may have found my answer to fixing my foot pain!!

Have I got your interest yet....I'll post more soon on my new hero(s)!!!

Winter Hand Help!

2011-01-28T07:57:00.001-08:00

There are 2 areas of the body besides the face that tend to give your age away...the hands and chest. I don't know about you, but during the winter, my hands seem to age a decade, not exactly what I want to happen. I find that especially in my line of work, I am always sanitizing and washing my hands which only tends to dry them out even more. Here is what I've found to work for me...

It’s not glamorous, or new, and your eyes probably skip right over it when you’re browsing the lotion section of the drugstore—but so many dermatologists say that this old-standby hand cream is a proven miracle worker. It’s Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream. And it’s only four bucks at the drugstore!

I like that it doesn't feel greasy and absorbs quickly into my hands. You only need to use a small amount....before bed I like to use a little more and massage it into my often dry cuticles. So this weekend, hit Walmart, Walgreens or your fav drugstore and get your hands re-moisturized this winter!!! (Also works great on the feet)

Birth Control and Acne

2011-01-12T12:53:00.000-08:00

Birth control for acne simplified.

Birth control pills are widely used today and prescribed often as a means to control acne. Most pills can
have the potential to cause acne and weight gain in those susceptible. Typically the pills are divided up as estrogen or progestin dominant and have varying degrees of androgenic (testosterone like) effects.
As a general rule of thumb, pills with the potential for higher androgenic symptoms should be avoided for people prone to acne because they promote breakouts.

As an acne sufferer it is important to speak with your doctor about a selecting a pill that is higher in
estrogen and lower in androgen potency.

The most commonly prescribed pills in this category are:
Yasmin
Diane 35(Dianette)
Demulan(Zovia)
Ortho tri cyclen
Nevicon modicon
Ortho evra
Mircette
Desogen(Apri)

It is best to avoid the following pills that are high in androgen activity and low in estrogen.
Loestrin
Estrotrep Fe
Levlen
Alesse
Ovral
Norestrin
Nuvo ring
Depoprovera shot

Only you and your doctor can determine what pill is right for you. The above is just a basic guideline that should be used to initiate a conversation between you and your physician. If you are considering taking birth control pills, it is important to know that they are associated with a high risk of blood clots, weight gain, nausea, mood changes, depression and breast tenderness. Serious side effects include strokes, digestive issues and embolism.

5 Tips to Stick with your New Year's Resolutions!

2011-01-02T19:02:00.000-08:00

5 tips to help you stick with your New Year’s resolutions!

Are you planning on making any New Year’s resolutions for 2011? Are you one of those people who typically gives up on your resolutions after just a few months or weeks? Would you like to increase your chances of following through on your resolutions?

Why is it so hard to create lasting changes in your behavior? It’s because your brain is hardwired to resist change. When your brain tells you to stick with the same old habits, you need to fight back. It takes time to overwrite old neural pathways with new ones. These five tips will help you retrain your brain so you can stick with your New Year’s resolutions.

1. Don’t try to change everything at once. Rather than making a resolution that is so lofty it is virtually impossible for you to achieve, choose one or two specific behaviors you want to change.

2. Believe you can do it. If you don’t believe in yourself, you will never achieve your goals.

3. Reward yourself for the small successes. When you reach a goal or are following through on your resolution, reward yourself. If weight loss is one of your goals for the New Year, find rewards that don’t involve eating or drinking—a warm bath, a good book, a hike with a friend, for example.

4. Don’t swap one bad habit for another. Don’t stop eating cookies but start drinking diet sodas. Don’t quit smoking but start guzzling coffee all day long. Replace your bad habits with good habits.

5. Get back on track—setbacks don’t mean failure. Like I said, change is hard, so don’t beat yourself up if you have a setback. Just acknowledge that you had a setback and get back onto your program the next day.

Personally, I am very guilty of #1...I try to make too many changes at once and end up giving up! But this year I'll try harder to ease into all the changes I want to take on. Wish me luck!

Here are a few of my 2011 goals...

Eat healthier (eat less sugar, drink more water)
Exercise more (usually I only workout during warm months)
Be more organized
Take more time for myself (i.e. facial,massage,etc.)
Learn to say "NO" (that's a difficult one for me)

Here's to 2011, I wish you all the best for a wonderful, happy and prosperous New Year!

Homemade Peppermint Bath Salts

2010-12-23T21:14:00.000-08:00

I just found another fun, homemade recipe!! When winter hits and the temperatures drop I have a hard time getting warm. I love to end the day with a relaxing bath, some chocolate and a good book. Why not try this simply, festive bath salt recipe that will help boost your mood and reduce fatigue?

Ingredients ~

1/2 cup Epsom salt
1/4 teaspoon peppermint oil *
1 drop red food color (optional)
The magical creation ~

First grind the salt into a fine powder and pour into mixing bowl. (Hint: A coffee grinder or a mortar and pestle work wonderfully for this!) Then simply add the remaining ingredients. Stir well and let it dry overnight. Store your new bath salts in a sealed jar. Makes 4 ounces.

To use ~
Add 1 tablespoon to bath water and enjoy!

* Why chose Peppermint besides it’s obvious delicious scent? Peppermint oil, originally from Europe, is often referred to as the “world’s oldest medicine.” As hard as it is to imagine, the world has been using the oil for almost ten thousand years! Such uses range broadly from removing ticks to soothing the common stuffy nose. This recipe also makes a wonderful gift for your loved ones!!

2010-12-20T21:02:00.000-08:00

I just found this fun homemade recipe for a Peppermint & Cucumber Face Mask. Take a break from the busy shopping season to relax and pamper yourself...you deserve it!!!

Time to thaw out those chilly weather blues by winterizing your skin with this new do it yourself recipe. Peppermint when used as an infusion is much gentler than peppermint essential oil, while cucumber soothes and feeds the skin with silica.

Ingredients ~

1/2 of a fresh medium cucumber
5 ounces (150 ml) filtered tap/mineral water
1 packet peppermint tea
2 oz (60 ml) aloe vera juice
2 drops vitamin E oil
1 oz (30 ml) carrot juice (optional)

First, puree the cucumber using a blender. Next, prepare the peppermint tea using filtered water and allow it to steep for 3 minutes. Then combine with the rest of the ingredients and shake well.

The peppermint, when used as an infusion in this blend, is much gentler than peppermint essential oil, while cucumber will help sooth and feed your skin silica.

When the mixture is ready, you can either rub it on your skin or even add it to your bath water.

Storage ~
Refrigerate the mixture [and keep it away from your beverages for obvious reasons! ] and it will stay good for at least 3 days. You can even toss it in your freezer for a quick skin reviving treatment through the summer months.

Enjoy and Happy Holidays!

December Christmas Special!!!

2010-12-12T15:42:00.000-08:00

Purchase a Gift Card of $100 or more and receive a FREE Microdermabrasion Facial!!!
Keep the Microdermabrasion facial for yourself or give it to someone you love as a relaxing and pampering holiday gift!

Call or email us today to take advantage of this special!!!

Epsom Salts & Ingrown Hairs

2010-11-20T11:52:00.000-08:00

Ingrown hairs are a potential side effect of hair removal, particularly in the bikini area. This condition occurs when the hair begins growing out and curls in on itself, growing under the skin instead of outward; this causes irritation, rash and redness. Untreated ingrown hairs can become infected.

Epsom Salt Soaks
An Epsom salt soak can help to draw out the ingrown hair because of the salt's active ingredient, magnesium sulfate. Add 1/4 cup salt to a tub of warm water and soak for 30 minutes.

Epsom Salt Scrub
Add 1/2 tsp. salt to 1 tbsp. body cream or oil and rub into the affected area. This will exfoliate the skin and should draw out the hair

Preventing Ingrown Hairs
Before shaving, thoroughly exfoliate the area with an Epsom salt scrub or a loofah. Alternatively, consider wax or depilatory hair removal methods that are less likely to create ingrown hairs.

Infection
If home treatments are unsuccessful or if the area is red or inflamed, consult your physician.

Cautions
Do not use Epsom salts without first speaking to your doctor if you have high blood pressure, diabetes or a heart condition.

Holiday Special---Lashes!!!

2010-11-12T11:19:00.000-08:00

Dashing through the SNOW, Watch your LASHES Show! Holiday Sets will GO, Don't be the last to KNOW!!!

Revitalash Holiday Special!!! Get BOTH Revitalash Lash Conditioner AND Revitalash Mascara.....Only $98!!! Don't miss this Holiday Special! Enjoy fabulous lashes this holiday season and into the New Year! Limited Time Special!

Contact me if you want to order your Revitalash at this once a year price!! Makes a great gift that keeps on giving all year long!!!

Five Things to Keep Acne From Getting Worse!!

2010-10-27T12:35:00.000-07:00

Five Things You Can Do Today to Keep Your Acne From Getting Worse

1. Break out the ice. Ice helps inflamed lesions from getting worse and often can make them go away. Cleanse your skin first, then get an ice cube (better yet - get a Styrofoam or Dixie cup and fill it up with water and freeze it) and ice your zits for a minute or two.

2. Stop eating peanut butter, peanuts and/or peanut oil. Peanuts contain a hormone in them that can make acne worse. If you love peanut butter, switch to unsalted almond butter - it doesn't have the same effect as peanuts.

3. Stop using fabric softener in the washer AND the dryer (the softener sheets). Fabric softener leaves a waxy residue on cloth - that's the softness that you feel. Unfortunately, that wax is getting on your skin while you sleep on that soft pillowcase and it's clogging your pores. And, don't think that fragrance free is any
better - it's the waxy residue, not the fragrance.

4. Get uniodized salt to use at home. Iodides are the culprit in the foods that you eat - it irritates the follicle walls and breaks you out.

5. Start taking zinc supplements. Research indicates that the best form to take is zinc monomethionine. But, don't take it on an empty stomach - eat first.

Vitamin E and Eczema

2010-07-28T18:29:00.000-07:00

More Vitamin E = Less Eczema?
Kids who eat lots of foods containing vitamin E may have a lower risk of the itchy skin condition called eczema, a new study in Japanese youngsters shows.
At the same time, foods rich in vitamin A don't seem to protect against allergies, despite earlier studies suggesting they do.
Dr. Masayuki Okuda of Yamaguchi University in Ube and colleagues measured the levels of substances in the blood that showed how much of the two vitamins children were likely eating. They focused on asthma and eczema because both are allergy-related conditions.
Among 396 10- and 13-year-old children, 240 of whom had eczema, wheezing, or asthma, the researchers found no relationship between a child's risk of any of the conditions and his or her blood levels of vitamin A-related compounds.
However, kids with the highest levels of vitamin E-related compounds were at 67% lower risk of eczema than those with the lowest. Even those with only moderately higher than average levels of the compound had a similarly lower risk.

Although the study does not prove there is any cause and effect at work, it was more precise than earlier research, the authors note, because previous studies relied on food questionnaires. Such surveys can be somewhat unreliable because they depend on memory.
Yellow, red and orange fruits are rich in vitamin A and related compounds, while vitamin E is found in vegetable oils, nuts, and whole grains.
There are no commonly agreed-upon standards for levels of such compounds in the blood, but the U.S. recommended daily allowance of vitamin A is 2,000 international units (IUs) for this age group. The recommended daily allowance of vitamin E in the same age group is about 16 IUs.
It's not clear why vitamin E would lower the risk of eczema, but Okuda and his colleagues suggest that its antioxidant and immune-boosting effects might play a role.

SOURCE: http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/123400376/abstract

Great Mascara Tip!!!!

2010-03-16T15:04:00.000-07:00

Great Mascara Trick....This trick is so brilliantly simple for solving mid-day mascara messes that we had to share it with our Facebook fans. When refreshing lashes with another coat, avoid clumps by first wetting your fingers with water and then gently rubbing lashes. This will create a smooth surface for you to build... your next layer of mascara!!! Gotta love luscusious lashes!!!

Have a great sunny....springy day!!!

Pro Secrets for Beautiful Skin - Vitamin C

2010-01-16T08:32:00.000-08:00

If we had a $ for every derm who mentioned using a skin-care product w/vitamin C, we could buy an orange grove!! Haha!

Anyone that knows me, knows that Vit C is a favorite of mine when it comes to skin-care products. My favorite line is the Vital C line by Image SkinCare. One of my favorite facials is a Vitamin C chemical peel after microdermabrasion.

Vitamin C is a key ingredient needed to manufacture the collagen that keeps your complexion plump and smooth.

Listed below are some of the many, many other benefits that topical Vit C has on the skin:(I highlighted my favs)

Greater penetration to the epidermis and dermis, greater benefit
Neutralizes free radical damage caused by UV light, smoke, and air pollution
Allows skin cells to remain healthy and able to perform their necessary functions
Helps moisturize and increase skin hydration
Stimulates collagen production
Restores elasticity
Prevents premature skin aging
Protects against damaging UVA and UVB rays
Reverses the appearance of photoaging
Decreases fine lines and wrinkles
Lightens and brightens the skin for more even tone
Fades brown spots
Helps reduce oiliness and restore sebum balance
Helps to normalize problem skin (pimples, blackheads, and other problems associated with oily skin)
Anti-inflammatory

If you are in the mood for a real treat...schedule a microdermabrasion followed by a Vitamin C peel.....your skin will thank you by glowing and making you look fabulous!!!

Have a great weekend!!!!
Chrissy

It's a New Year....Give your Skin a Fresh Start!!!

2010-01-06T18:31:00.000-08:00

When making a list of all your New Year's Resolutions this year...make sure your skin is at the top of the list!!!

Give your skin a "fresh start" this winter!!!

The holidays may be over, but stress-induced skin concerns like dullness and blemishes can last for weeks!

To refresh your skin...use a face mask!

Facial masks are more concentrated and stay on longer than lotions, so the active ingredients are able to penetrate deeper into the skin.

My favorite mask pick is, Vital C hydrating enzyme mask by Image Skincare.

Vital C is a hydrating mask that also gently exfoliates the build up of dull, dry skin. It uses vitamins A, C and E and promotes healthier, more radiant and youthful skin.

Favorite Treatment of the Month:

Relaxing Microdermabrasion Facial followed by a Vital C Mask! It feels so good especially during these cold and dry months!!!

Call now to schedule your pampering facial!!!!

Vital C Mask available for purchase at Simply Skin & Laser!

Holiday Gift Cards!!!

2009-11-28T09:17:00.000-08:00

The holiday shopping season has official begun!!!

Holiday Microdermabrasion Facial Special $30
Enjoy a relaxing and exfoliating facial. Treats fine lines, evens skin tone, helps w/any skin imperfections. Walk away feeling refreshed and glowing!!!

Laser Gift Cards available in any amount!!!
Free Microdermabrasion Gift Card w/any Laser Gift Card Purchase!!!

All gift cards are wrapped and ready to be placed under the Christmas Tree or into your friends anxious hands!!!

Call Chrissy at 801.427.6895 to order your gift cards!!!

How to Repair Dry Cracked Heels!!!

2009-09-06T19:20:00.000-07:00

It's Labor Day Weekend and sadly that means the "official" end of summer. Although I always welcome a three day weekend, it is always with less enthusiasm that I make plans for this holiday weekend that also kicks off our fall season. Don't get me wrong, I do love fall. Especially after growing up in So. Cal, I love the beautiful colors, the crisp cool breezes we begin to enjoy and the cool evenings accompined by chripping crickets. It just that as a "summer girl" at heart, I know that fall always seems too pass to quickly and then we are hit w/cold and snow and a day by the pool seems decades away!!!

I apologize....this post was not meant for me to rambal on and on, but to share with you my favorite solution to repairing my tough and beat up heels after a hot summer spent by the pool!!!

Since we still have several sandal wearing weeks ahead of us (fingers crossed), it's not too late to fix up our feet. I don't know if it's just me, but lately after indulging in a pampering pedicure I find my heels are still a little rough. Lately most pedicures only include a pumice stone exfoliation and no more razor blades. Thats okay friends....I will give you the recipe to fix your heels at home!!!

First: Purchase a pumice stone/bar and place it in your shower. Toward the end of your shower each day, rub the pumice stone/bar over your heeels or any rough spots on your feet. I usually wait until the end of my shower because by then my feet have softened. I use just a traditional pumice stone, but have heard that a lot of people like the pumi bar, it comes in a large range of colors and I have seen it at Sally's Beauty for about $2.

Second: Purchase the magic cream....Kerasal.

You can purchase this at most drug stores. I find mine at Walmart, it is usually on an aisle kinda by the pharmacy w/the Dr. Scholl's products. Typically the cost is about $5-8 a tube and will last for several months.

After you have showered, pumiced your feet and completely dried them. Apply the Kerasal Cream to area needed to soften and repair.

You will notice a huge improvement in your feet in as little as a week. Once your feet have been repaired, continue to apply as needed, at least a few times a week to maintain results. No more snagging your heels on the sheets when you go to bed!!!!

If you have any great ideas to keeping your feet looking and feeling healthy and beautiful, feel free to share!!!

Happy Labor Day!!!

Water and Your Skin!!!

2009-08-09T22:18:00.000-07:00

Water Facts:
Water transports nutrients thoughout our body.
NO other fluid will substitute for water.
Water is the ONLY substance the body recognizes as a hydrating substance.
The body is made up of 70% water!
Caffeniated beverages dehydrate the body.
Water naturally suppresses the appetite.
Water helps the body metabolize stored fat.

Now,I'm not going to pretend I'm NOT a huge fan of the
but I will admitt I need to work harder at drinking my water.

Water and Skin Facts:
Water prevents dehydration and sagging of the skin.

Water helps keep the skin clear, fresh, healthy and firm.

Skin cells are essentially floating in a pool of water, which plumps the skin.

How much water should we drink each day????

Experts say, we should drink about half our body weight in ounces each day. So, if you weigh 120lb, you need to drink 60oz. of water each day.

Following a healthy regime for both health and beauty and adding your daily personal consumption of water, will bring you radiant health and beauty!!!

If you have any tips how you get your daily water intake...please share!

Longer Lasting Pedicure!

2009-08-05T16:58:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh, one of the best parts of summer is getting a great pedicure! Of course once you have this great set of polished toes, they MUST be shown off by wearing all those cute sandals and flip-flops that are just begging to have their turn out of the closet!!! Being a "California Girl" that has been tranplanted to Utah, one year I vowed not to wear closed toe shoes until Nov 1st....and I did it. Hopefully this too will be one of those years and we will be able to enjoy a long and lovely Indian Summer when the time comes!

Luckily I've found a fabulous product that help extend the life of my pedicure!!! And surprisingly, it can be found at Walmart!!!!
It is Sally Hansen's Insta-Dri Anti-Chip Top Coat!!!
What I love about this top coat is it gives my nails a shiny finish, I apply a new coat 2-3 times a week to extend the life of my manicures and pedicures! People always comment on if I just had my toes done!!! Love it and love the price!!!

A Few of My Favorite Summer Time Products!!!

2009-08-03T21:22:00.000-07:00

Summer...my favorite time of the year. I love the sun...the beach...the pool and especially the no homework!!!! More time to spend with my family and the freedom to enjoy all the outdoor activities Utah has to offer.

Even though I'm a lover of the sun...I always advise the use of sunscreen!!! Especially on the face, chest and hands!!!

Here's a list of my top favorite products to use during the summer:
#1 Ayurmedic Sheer Tint 30 Sunscreen:
Reasons I love this sunscreen: It doesn't feel or smell like sunscreen. It has a tint that works with most skin tones. I apply it after moisturizing and I don't need to use any foundation. Only a light dusting of my favorite mineral make-up. My skin looks natural, it evens out my skin tone and most importantly, it protects my skin from (even more) premature aging due to UV light! If you have sensitive skin, it won't cause you to break out.
I recommend it to all my clients and once they try it, they are hooked!!! I even have my 14 and 16 year old daughters in the habit of using this sunscreen every morning. Someday they will thank me!!!

#2 Image Body Spa Facial Bronzing Creme
Just because I totally protect my face from the sun, it doesn't mean I don't want a healthy summer glow!
This product....I love it....it gives my face a natural glow. It is the ONLY facial bronzing product that does not make my face break out, look orange or stink like all the other self-tanners on the market!!! Definitely a must have for summer!!!

#3 Image Balancing Lip Complex
Sometimes as we spend time in the sun, our lips get neglected and start to dry out and crack. The lip balancing complex is an ultra hydrating anti-aging polypeptide lip complex, which dramatically enhances the appearance of lip contours. Adding up to 40% more moisture, volume and reducing fine lines with repeat usage. Your lips will feel amazing and will be soooo plump and kissable!!! Get some for yourself and the one you love!

If you are interested in ordering any of these products, give me a call or email me!!

Light Therapy Give-Away

2009-01-26T17:08:00.001-08:00

Do you struggle w/acne or aging issues? Okay, let's be honest, who doesn't deal w/these issues in their household? Well, I just found a great website and they are having a give a-way for a hand-held light therapy unit, Baby Quasar and Baby Blue Quasar. This give-away includes both the red(anti-aging) and blue (acne)units and together they retail for over $700!
As a Master Esthetician, I am here to say, this is a HUGE must have!!! If you love your skin, you need to link to this site and register to win! Click here to enter sweetlifeinthevalley.com/
Or you can click on the Sweet Life in the Valley button to link to the site! Good luck! If you have any questions on light therapy and how it can help you, please let me know, I'd love to help! Hurry and enter, deadline is Jan 29th! Anyone can enter!

Winter Sun!

2009-01-10T16:15:00.000-08:00

Winter Sun! Did you pack away your sun screen with the swimsuits and beach bag? Well drag it back out! What most people don't know is that the sun in the winter is actually more damaging to the skin than the sun in the summer. One main reason being...it's reflective.
Sun Fact #2:
50% of the sun we receive is through glass(i.e.driving in your car/working in your office by the window). Also, skin damage due to sun exposure is cumulative. Think of all those years doing simple things like; going to class, the supermarket, picking up the kids from school, it all counts and it all adds up!
Sun Fact #3
90% of aging and wrinkles come from sun damage. Ouch, okay so that means all those years of slathering myself w/baby oil and going to the beach have now returned to bite me in the butt or more appropriately in the face(and chest and hands and so on and so on)! I'm not saying we can never leave our homes again, we just need to protect ourselves...even in January!!!
My Solution

My very, very, very, favorite sunscreen for the face is Ayur-Medic Tinted SPF 30! Reasons I love this sunscreen: It doesn't feel or smell like sunscreen. It has a tint that works with most skin tones. I apply it after moisturizing and I don't need to use any foundation. Only a light dusting of my favorite mineral make-up. My skin looks natural, it evens out my skin tone and most importantly, it protects my skin from (even more) premature aging due to UV light! If you have sensitive skin, it won't cause you to break out.
I recommend it to all my clients and once they try it, they are hooked!!!

Ayur-Medic Products are developed by two plastic surgeons located in Westlake Village, CA. If you now are thinking this is a product you can't live w/out...you can email me at simplyskinds@yahoo.com, I sell it for $26+ shipping or you can order from www.ayur-medic.com, it is $34+shipping

If you already have skin damage from the sun or age spots...have a professional give you a microdermabrasion or chemical peel to help reverse aging and keep it from getting worse. But remember after receiving one of these treatments, it is even more important to use sunblock! If you live near me and want to schedule an appointment...email me at simplyskinds@yahoo.com!!!

simplyskinds@yahoo.com
January Skin Special...Four-Layer Face Lift Facial $25 reg $40

First Post

2008-11-11T19:24:00.000-08:00

Welcome to "Simply Skin Day Spa"!! I am excited to have you join us! Thanks to my daughter, Kate, for helping me design my blog....suddenly I am my mother and need the help of my children to do anything advanced on the computer! Just call me Scotty!

I am excited to offer "great spa services at not so spa prices"!!! I believe every woman deserves to be pampered and take time out for herself and do it at an affordable price! The holidays coming, we want to look our best and feel our best! This is something I'd love to help you with!