Showing posts with label spa treatment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label spa treatment. Show all posts


Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa at The Plaza is revamping its menus! Both their wine and spa treatment menus are getting a refresher for summer. 

Mathilde Thomas, Caudalie's Founder, hand selected the newest addition to the French Paradox Wine Lounge in the vibrant Wolffer Estate Rose'. Calling it "summer in a bottle," the rose' complements the current collection of Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte vintages and adds a sparkling twist perfect for the warmer months ahead. The rose' is filled with fresh fruit aromas of peach and pear, with hints of rose petal and bursts of crisp acidity.  You may partake of a glass of this sumptuous wine for $10 a glass.


And if that's not reason enough to visit them, here's yet another.  Wanting to cater to clients seeking beach body readiness, a new signature treatment has been designed to instantly refresh the body and ensure a flawless glow.  The Refreshing Body Polish treatment features the Caudalie Merlot Scrub massaged into the body, while the Vichy Shower rains down on the skin followed by a heated towel wrap.  Those unfamiliar with the scrub will be surprisingly delighted by this freshly made treatment using brown sugar, grape seed oil, essential oils of peppermint, sweet mint and lemon, body lotion and the Caudalie Firming Concentrate.  This treatment is perfect for firming, exfoliating and nourishing body skin. Magnifique!

The treatment is just 20 minutes, thus perfect for clients-on-the-go or as an add-on to any of the other spa treatments.  The ideal pre self-tanning treatment is a great way to beat the heat as the Body Polish has a cooling effect that leaves skin refreshed.

Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa is located on the 4th floor of The Plaza located at One West 58th Street in New York.  To book an appointment, you make call 212-265-3182.  Happy Memorial Day, gorgeous angels! xo





So you want in on Spa Week.  Of course you do, you work hard, take care of family, are the one everyone goes to for everything ... you deserve a luxurious treatment without breaking the bank. You've heard about the idea of Spa Week. You believe it's probably something you could take advantage of ... if ONLY you had more information. 

Allow me to introduce you to this fabulous concept and all the scoop you'll need to schedule a much deserved treatment all your own in your area.

Capella Spa, Colorado

Spa Week, created in 2004, is the original, largest and most successful Spa Marketing Event in the history of the spa industry. Nearly 1000 spas across North America concluded their participation in the Fall 2010 Event, and bowing to popular demand, the Spring 2011 Event, presented by the Carefree Brand, will further expand into even more cities. Taking place from April 11th – 17th, the 14th edition of Spa Week will provide consumers across the United States and Canada with the most luxurious and wellness-focused spa treatments available for only $50 each. Day spas, medical spas, resort spas, yoga and Pilates studios, and fitness/weight-loss centers among other beauty and wellness facilities will offer 2-3 of their most exclusive services, originally costing anywhere from $100 all the way up to $500, for a discounted price of $50.

Facial at Twin Palm, Phuket

For seven years now, the signature $50 price point has afforded consumers nationwide the ability to try different treatment types at different spas, putting an end to the old myth that the spa lifestyle can only be afforded by the rich and famous. With millions still keeping a close eye on their wallets and their healthcare options, the bi-annual Spa Week Events have exposed consumers everywhere to the benefits of including spa services into their health regimen. In fact, Spa Week has proven to be so successful that well over one million affordable spa treatments have been booked and enjoyed since its inception. From stress-busting massages and holistic, immune-boosting treatments like Reiki and Acupuncture to the trendiest and glamorous of services like Botox and Eyelash Extensions, spa-goers can always find an array of services on the Spa Week menu suited to their needs. And best of all, the newly re-designed SpaWeek Gift Cards are accepted during the Spa Week Events, as well as all year long, and never expire.



In order to take advantage of Spa Week, consumers should register on SpaWeek.com for exclusive information on participating spas and their $50 treatments. Spas will book up just hours after SpaWeek.com launches on March 14th, so it is recommended that consumers book their appointments immediately.

As always, Spa Week’s goal is to open up the spa industry to the masses by making spa treatments accessible and affordable to all. Aligned with their commitment to reaching the next generation of spa-goers and infusing much-needed new blood into the industry, Spa Week maintains the most popular and active spa page on Facebook, a well-read off-beat spa blog, a Mobile App for iPhone & Android, and introduced the world to an edgy spa video that stirred up some controversy in this otherwise relatively quiet industry. You can even take a quick view of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's).

Never too soon to schedule as these offers book quickly.  Go ahead and do the body good (and the mental state, and the emotional state, and yes, even the soul), and schedule a self-designed spa experience for yourself now. I give you permission! xo



Here's a fab little do-it-yourself treat that does the body good - literally.  This particular recipe earned lots of praise with the rise in popularity of the Flat Belly Diet in 2008 as "Sassy Water".  For those who don't like the taste of plain old water, this may just change your mind about making water drinking a pleasurable, refreshing activity.

Ingredients:
2 liters water (about 8 1/2 cups)
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 medium cucumber peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium lemon thinly sliced
12 small spearmint leaves

Directions:
Mix all the ingredients together in a pitcher
Refrigerate overnight
Strain water
Enjoy over ice cubes
Add mint sprig for garnish (optional)

Cynthia Sass
Cynthia Sass, MPH, MA, RD, former Nutrition Director for Prevention, created the recipe for Sassy Water while developing the Flat Belly Diet with Lisa Vaccariello. Here's a bit more about how these ingredients break down in goodness.

Ginger contains high concentrations of antioxidants and helps soothe the intestinal tract and digestion.  Benefits of ginger come from very potent anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols. These substances can help relieve swelling and inflammation, and are also know to aid in reducing nausea.  Gingerols also said to help reduce pain caused by muscle aches, headaches and rheumatism.  Ginger is a good source of potassium, magnesium, copper, manganese and vitamin B6.  Because it's so concentrated, it doesn't take a lot to receive the health benefits.  As an immune booster, ginger may not only be warming on a cold day, but can help promote healthy sweating. A good sweat may can assist in detoxification.  Some studies suggest ginger may even actually help inhibit growth of cancer cells.

Cucumber flesh is primarily composed of water but also contains ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and caffeic acid, both of which help soothe skin irritations and reduce swelling. Cucumbers are rich in fiber and contain a variety of beneficial minerals including silica, potassium and magnesium. Cucumber juice is often recommended as a source of silica to improve the complexion and health of the skin, plus cucumber's high water content makes it naturally hydrating—a must for glowing skin. Cucumbers are also used topically for various types of skin problems, including swelling under the eyes and sunburn. Two compounds in cucumbers, ascorbic acid and caffeic acid, prevent water retention, which may explain why cucumbers applied topically are often helpful for swollen eyes, burns and dermatitis.


Like many of the fruits and vegetables featured on our website, lemons and limes contain unique flavonoid compounds that have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. In addition to their unique phytonutrient properties, lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, one of the most important antioxidants in nature. Vitamin C is one of the main antioxidants found in food and the primary water-soluble antioxidant in the body. Vitamin C travels through the body neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals can interact with the healthy cells of the body, damaging them and their membranes, and also cause a lot of inflammation, or painful swelling, in the body. This is one of the reasons that vitamin C has been shown to be helpful for reducing some of the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.  As with other fruits of its kind, lemons are said to help reduce risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke.  Lemon is also a diuretic. This means it is good for people with urinary tract infections and high uric acid problems, such as those with arthritis or rheumatism because it helps flush out all the toxins and bad bacteria.

Spearmint is a pleasantly aromatic herb packed with numerous health benefiting vitamins, antioxidants and phyto-nutrients. The chief essential oil in spearmint is menthol. Other important chemical components of spearmint are α-pinene, β-pinene, carvone, cineole, linalool, limonene, myrcene and caryophyllene. These compounds in mint help relieve fatigue and stress.  The herb parts are also very good in minerals like potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, and magnesium. Iron is required for enzymes in cellular metabolism and synthesis of hemoglobin. Potassium in an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure. It is also rich in many antioxidant vitamins including vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin C, folates, vitamin B-6, riboflavin and thiamin. Spearmint is said to be an excellent remedy for minor ailments such as headaches, nervous strain, fatigue and stress, as well as for the respiratory problems; helping with asthma and bronchitis. It is thought to aid with digestive problems including nausea, flatulence and hiccups as it relaxes the stomach muscles.


Ok, more information than perhaps you needed to know when contemplating the concocting of an at-home spa drink, but as the ingredients are far more powerful than a casual nod would suggest I decided to give you the whole kit and kaboodle on it.

Enjoy!

sources: world's healthiest foods, livestrong, glo, Cynthia Sass, nutrition and you


Photo: Beauty Mercantile

Yes!  It's that time of year again when spas reach out to their adoring public in offering half-price spa treatments, $50 massages and much more.  If you're not one to treat yourself regularly (or at all), and you could use a little TLC (and who couldn't?) then do something good for you body, mind and soul and relax in a little luxury when the price is oh so sweet. Give yourself permission to indulge, just a little.  Do it for me if you can't do it for yourself (cuz I really do care... yes, I seriously do); I know you'll thank me later. It all awaits you!

Massages, facials, body scrubs… always want more, more often! But did you know you’re barely scraping the spa surface? New technology, reinvented techniques and pop culture all shape the way we spa today. Spa Week has officially announced the definitive list of the latest in emerging spa treatment trends, from holistic to glamorous.  I have to admit, there are some on this list that I'm a little embarrassed (terrified!) to even share with you - vajazzling ... I blush! Really? Oooooo-kay!


Here's the list in all its unedited glory a la Spa Week: 



photo: Instanbul Grand Hyatt


Treat yourself to a wellness and beauty adventure this Spa Week®, $50 spa treatments September 13-19 for the West Coast and Chicago, October 11-17 for the rest of the country. The Fall spa directory launches August 16 for the West Coast, September 13 for the rest of the country, when you’ll be able to see which spas are offering which services. Try one, try all— Spa Week is the time to indulge and experiment. All these treatments will be available for just $50!

1) FIGHTING ALLERGIES

allergy spa treatments

Sinus massages, breathe-easy facials and cold & flu bath salts are just a few of the spa services you’ll be seeing this upcoming Spa Week, just in time to soothe your seasonal allergies. Treat your immune system and clear your sinuses in the spa with new treatments using Eucaplyptus, humidifiers and Lymph drainage movements , to name just few of the techniques being used to assist in allergy relief.



2) BIKINI GLAMOUR




Vajazzling made its sparkly splash last Spa Week, when bedazzling your bikini became the hot new standard in girly glamour. Other treatments are quickly emerging in its footsteps to pamper your private parts: Bikini/Bum Facials are being offered to give the same attention down there as a esthetician would to your face: toner, extractions and masks included. Also, post-Brazilian waxing rituals such as Airbrush painting and Vattooing are now the latest in vaginal adornment.


3) SLEEPING AND DREAMING


Insomniac? A good night’s slumber with proper REM cycles can be just as rejuvenating as a spa treatment, so one of the hottest trends emerging in the industry is a dream-worthy mix of the two to promote better sleeping patterns. Scents such as Rosewood, Palmarosa and Vanilla are used to guide you off to never-never land while massage techniques make for a complete relaxation experience.

4) LASH EXTENSIONS
eyelash extensions

Eyelash length, thickness, volume and darkness have gone way up on the beauty priority lists of women now more than ever. While new drugstore and professional lash volumizers continue to crowd the lash-enhancing market, the Fall Spa Week event is poised to give women more professional lash-extending options than ever before.



5) INSTANT INCH LOSS

skinny tummy

Remember that magical, completely safe instant weight-loss pill you always dreamed of? We’re not saying it’s been invented (sorry), but the spa is becoming a go-to place to get instant, (almost) magic-like results in addition to providing long term benefits. Colon Hydrotherapy is becoming more popular as a quick, easy cleanse, and hot new med-spa services like the 7E Treatment and Ionithermie give immediate results by targeting muscles with waveform technology.

6) REIKI AND ENERGY WORK

reiki

Turn your trip to the spa into a journey for the soul. Reiki, energy work and holistic healing deliver health benefits ranging from injury recovery to spiritual growth. By engaging the flow of your “life force energy,” practitioners are turning spa-goers into active believers. Look for treatments with an energy component this coming Spa Week, and may the force be with you.

7) ACUPUNCTURE
acupuncture

This ancient holistic healing technique is no newbie to the spa scene, but the granddaddy of healing is suddenly making a resurgence. The World Health Organization advocates the use of acupuncture to treat over 40 conditions, from anxiety and other stress syndromes to musculoskeletal pain and injury, and the Fall Spa Week event will encourage more spa-goers to forget their fears of needles and reap the benefits of this treatment—for their face, body and both.



8) BOTOX ON-THE-GO

botox injections

Pick up dry cleaning, get Botox, grab lunch… what? Yes, the age-defying treatment has become so mainstream that spas are now offering it hassle-free, and even appointment-free. Add the $50 Spa Week price tag, and suddenly “to-tox-or-not-to tox?” is one of the easiest decisions to make.


9) HOT AND COLD STONE MASSAGES

Spa Week’s favorite sweetheart treatment has always been the Hot Stone Massage, but the newest twist is cooler than past seasons. Instead of using all hot stones, this treatment includes the application of cold stones as well, adding multi-dimensional stimulation. Alternating the hot and cool stones helps every cell in the body receive more oxygen and nutrients and encourages a more effective removal of toxins.



10) Champissage

scalp massage

Also known as Indian head massage, Champissage has been practiced for more than 1000 years in India and has now been interpreted as a custom ritual at many spas. Traditionally, it began as a system of family grooming, with mothers massaging their daughters’ hair with oils to encourage long, lustrous locks. Over time, it began to incorporate massage of the face neck and shoulders, specifically yours this upcoming Spa Week.


11) EVERYTHING SEAWEED

seaweed wrap

You’d like to be… under the sea? Why? Just go to the spa. Seawater and seaweed have similar mineral contents with approximately the same percentage as the human body. Because of this, seaweed wraps help detoxify the body, eliminate excess fluids, increase blood circulation and regulate hormonal levels. More treatments than ever are incorporating Seaweed this Spa Week. Go for a dive.


12) SIMPLY ... OXYGEN


Human beings’ star life-sustaining molecule is getting more and more play inside the spa. One of the new treatments is Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber Therapy, which dissolves oxygen in the blood plasma and all body cells, tissues and fluids at up to 10 times normal concentration—high enough to sustain life with no blood at all. Oxygenating facials are also increasing in popularity, as oxygen continues to secure its reputation as the #1 skincare essential.



Experiment with these treatments and experience the true spa lifestyle for just $50 a piece during Spa Week. Make sure you’re signed up!

source: SpaWeek



This nutrient rich, natural and certified organic ingredient laden body scrub is akin to bringing a luxurious spa treatment right into the comfort of your own bathroom.  I've quickly fallen in love with OSEA Organic Body Polish  as it treats skin from a number of different angles giving it a deserved label as a true multi-tasker. Let's explore.

KEY INGREDIENT: Certified organic undaria (wakame)

This edible seaweed from the pure waters of Patagonia, is rich in sodium, iron, potassium, calcium and vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6 and B12. Undaria prevents the breakdown of hyaluronic acid in the body, which we have all come to learn is necessary in keeping skin smooth and firm. Without hyaluronic acid, elastin and collagen lose their 'glue' and skin sags and wrinkles.

The body polish contains natural exfoliants that feel gentle on the skin while delivering a stimulating scrub action.  This is not a harsh, gritty, irritating scrub. It uses small pumice grains to help remove dead cells along with a bio-scrub blend of acai and guarana. Guarana (caffeine) helps tone skin and has astringent properties, as well as assists in reducing cellulite.  Acai delivers a powerful synergy of anti-aging properties to skin, and hemp and passion fruit seed oils feed the skin Omega 3-6-9 essential fatty acids.

This was new to me, but I've learned that topical absorption of essential fatty acids (EFA's) has been shown in studies to be comparable to taking internal supplements, positively affecting the texture, suppleness and moisture content of skin. In other words, taking your vitamins from the outside in.


The intoxicating scent of this luxurious seaweed based body polish transports you to a place seemingly altogether divine. Organic melissa, lemon grass and Bulgarian lavender blend in an aroma that is truly transformative.  Other ingredients that aid in making this treatment completely irresistible include honeysuckle, organic babassu and rice bran oils.  The blend of these ingredients with the seaweed, pumice, acai, guarana, and essentail oils create a mixture that takes on a visual appearance and texture of almost a muddy-paste, and is very soothing to skin.  It doesn't dry on skin like a mud-based treatment does.  I am amazed at not only how productive yet gentle the exfoliation of Undaria Skin Polish is, but how hydrating the product is to skin simultaneously.  It provides a mantle of moisture once the polish is rinsed from skin with water, leaving skin smooth and soft to the touch.

What are the combined effects of this at-home spa treatment?

Purifies pores
Gently exfoliates
Improves skin's texture and suppleness
Provide hydration/moisture to skin
Gives skin a radiant glow
Feeds skin essential fatty acids of Omega 3-6-9
Provides antiaging benefits to skin
Treats the body, mind and soul with soothing aromatherapy

It really does seem to transform one's bath or shower into a luxurious spa experience.  OSEA Organic Undaria Body Polish is perfect for getting your skin summer ready, but also aids skin long into the fall and winter months when drying, scaling and flaking can become issues. I am completely in love with this product and can recommend it to you highly with no reservations.

New to OSEA? Here's more:

OSEA Malibu is an industry innovator in natural derived, marine-based skincare.  Their intent is to provide products founded on purity, quality and effectiveness.  Their unique blend of sea nutrients and essentail oils (sourced from all over the world) provides active, effective formulas for wellbeing.  OSEA believes in employing the power of the sea and its plant life to condition and balance skin for a lifetime of results than can be seen.  Over the past few years, I've watched as their product lines have grown to include cleansers, masks, skin essentials, treatment products, moisturizers, lotions, eye and lip products, and bath, body & massage products.



A staple in their line of offerings is the OSEA Sea Minerals Facial Mist.  I was a bit upset when I first tried Sea Minerals as it sprays a light green mist on skin.  I thought, "Huh, a company priding themselves on using natural ingredients from the sea and nature and they color their signature mist an artificial green?"  Joke's on me!  As it turns out, Sea Minerals owes its light green color to algae extracts and natural chlorophyll. Whew! With this knowledge, I've a newfound respect for this product. 

Sea Minerals is "swimming in nutrients directly from the ocean" as OSEA folks will happily tell you. It delivers healing ingredients and antioxidants directly to skin.  It promotes the skin's natural ability to absorb moisture and oxygenate.  The mist provides a therapeutic mineral treatment to skin; hydrating, healing and restoring balance to sun-exposed skin.  It's cool and soothing on application, and helps reduce skin redness and tightness.

Both Organic Undaria Body Polish ($60, 12 oz jar) and Sea Minerals ($30, 4 oz mist bottle) are available directly from OSEA Malibu and at select spas worldwide.





G I V E A W A Y    A L E R T:
Hold onto your hats, my angels, as your opportunity to win a jar of OSEA's luxuriously fantastic Organic Undaria Body Polish is coming to For the Love of Beauty later tonight! xo





While perusing the latest issue of VIV Magazine, I found this little quiz to be quite helpful in making the most out of your experience and the elements to consider when booking a spa visit. Check it out below and see if it helps you focus on what you want out of your next visit.  It's all in the details!


I. PURPOSE

A. Girlfriend Getaway
If you're planning a bridal toast for your best friend, make sure the spa allows alcohol, advises Angie Day, Spa Director at Canyon Ranch in Tucson, AZ, which has a no-booze policy at some of its resort properties. If you do raise a glass of bubbly, be sure to wash it down with water.  "Massage increases blood flow through your body, which can dehydrate you, so you want to make sure to drink plenty of water 24 hours after a massage," says Day.  You may think to also ask about 2-for-1 treatment specials and ask if common areas like Jacuzzis are big enough to accomodate your group.

B. Rest & Relaxation Solo Pampering
Spas nationwide are starting to offer special nap rooms or services designed to lull you to sleep, according to the International Spa Association.  During a massage, ask for lavender oil to help you doze off, advises spa manager and therapist Ayien Castaneda of The Verandah Resort & Spa in Antigua.  Alternately, for a lively energy boost, request a citrus scented oil.  When you're done, remember that you don't have to beat a hasty retreat as soon as you've slipped your robe one - instead, ask about special rooms or an area where you may rest and extend the moment of you time.

C. Glam Up with a Facial for a Big Event
A great bargain can quickly go bust if you opt to purchase the full line of products used in your treatment.  Ask your esthetician for just one recommendation above all others, and don't be afraid to ask why she/he recommends that one product in particular.  Also, don't feel pressured to buy the product right then and there.  You may do better (read: cheaper) by purchasing the product online at a skincare dominant site like SkincareRx or Dermstore.  When you sense a sales pitch coming on, just say "Thanks, I appreciate you recommending that product, but I'm not going to buy it today."


II. VALUE

A. Trying Something New
"Every spa has a signature treatment, so ask beforehand what the spa is known for," says Joan Southon, Spa Director at The Resort at the Mountain in Welches, OR.  In recent years, more spas have sought out local ingredients to incorporate into their offerings (think coconut oil, winery grapes, pristine sugary-white sand), the International Spa Association reports.  One trend that seems to be here to stay (at least for a while): hammam, an ancient Middle Eastern cleansing ritual that includes steam, massage and exfoliation.

B. Bargain Pricing
The latest way spas advertise deals is through Facebook, Twitter and website like Spa Week (a MUST check site).  Don't see what you like? Speak up when you book, because spas have more wiggle room than you may think.  Says Southon, "Spas always have discounts, and many times they aren't posted."  Also, remember that 30 is the new 60: Many massages and facials are available in "express" versions for half the time - and cost.  Only indulge once a year? Increase your spa savings in April or October during Spa Week, where $50 gets you a full-service treatment at more than 700 participating spas, or check spa-addicts.com, another fab site for spotting deals, perks and everyday deals.

C. Atmosphere
One person's ideal spa experience is another's nightmare.  Waiting in nothing but a robe in a coed setting may be fine for one person, but make someone else feel awkward.  On the flip side, you may have envisioned delicious couple time in the Jacuzzi only to find that the hot tubs are in same-sex-only locker rooms.  Avoid surprises: Ask when you book about anything you know will make - or break - the experience for you.


III. PACING
Want to be in and out or do you intend to linger?

A. Body Primping All at Once
Between massages, manis and makeovers, a relaxing getaway can quickly turn into a hurried to-do list.  "It's tempting to try to take advantage of everything, but sometimes you need to give yourself permission to just hit the pause button," says Day.  Rather than rush from one appointment to another, try combining two, like a body scrub and massage.  While it makes sense to get an exfoliation before a wrap or massage, and a facial before a mani or pedi (the better not to muss your nails while positioning yourself in the chair or on the table), the rules aren't set in stone.  "Going to a spa is about honoring yourself, so the only rule you need to follow in terms of treatment order is doing what makes you happy," says Southon.  Spas are sensitive to that, and want you to enjoy the whole experience.

B. One Treatment for Vanity, and One for Sanity
If you can't decide whether it's better to feel or look marvelous, you're in luck:  Many spas now combine treatments so you can get the most beauty for your buck, either by doing an "add on" to a standard treatment or combining two 30-minute appointments into one. "Remember, spas are flexible, so if you don't see it on their menu, ask," says Southon.

C. I'm a Single Treatment Gal/Guy
We get it - you're busy.  But now that you've taken the time to step away from you iPhone (you DID leave the iPhone in your bag, right?), slip into your spa sandals and enjoy.  "Sometimes we have people stay for five hours and that's great - that's what we're here for!" says Southon.  Taking just an extra 10 minutes to relax in the sauna, steam room or Jacuzzi can make you feel like you've gotten two massages for the price of one.  Or spend a few minutes in the lounge with some herbal tea and your favorite magazine or book (oh alright, or Kindle).  A recent study from the University of Sussex in Brighton, Engalnd, found that reading can reduce stress levels by 68%, with even just six minutes of the activity resulting in slower heart rate and eased muscle tension. Why am I not surprised? x


IV. COMFORT LEVEL
On a scale from 1 to 10, how comfortable are you with receiving a massage or spa treatment?

A. I'm More of a 1 - A Bit Anxious
There are many ways to ease into a massage - if you don't like the idea of flashing your birthday suirt, you can try treatments like shiatsu, Thai massage and reflexology, where you remain clothed.  Also realize that the whole "do I or don't I?" question when it comes to keeping your underwear on is a personal choice.  "Do what feels comfortable for you," says Southon. 

B. I'm around a 5 - I'm OK Naked, but I'm Not Up for Chitchat
Don't feel compelled to have a conversation with your massage therapist; it's perfectly OK to say that you want to zone out. And don't be reluctant to comment about other preferences as well - everything from music choice to room temperature to scented or unscented oils to how light or heavy the massage is can be adjusted to suit you.  "You're doing yourself a disservice if you don't speak up about something during a treatment, as we want you to have the best experience possible," say Southon.  So, tell them how you like it.

C. I'm Pretty Close to a 10
You're a great candidate for bodyscrub, mud or hydrotherapy treatments where you literally hop up on the table without a stitch of clothing (although you should have the option to don disposable undies if available and a preference). If you prefer going completely au naturel in the Jacuzzi, ask beforehand if it's coed so you'll know you need to bring your swimsuit.

source: VIV Magazine (Jul/Aug 2010); Author Megan McMorris

Silk'n

As is generally my first impression with all products and devices of this nature, I was skeptical this tool would live up to the claims.  And ... as has also been my experience many a time, I was wrong.  Let's explore the Silk'n SensEpil a little more.

A portable, FDA cleared device that offers the visual results of in-office laser hair removal in the convenience and privacy of your own home.  Really?  Yes!

Silk'n SensEpil is an over-the-counter innovation that delivers the clinically proven effectiveness of the well-established, market-leading Silk'n™ sold by physicians. This breakthrough product harnesses the power of proprietary Home Pulsed Light™ (HPL™) technology to create a cutting-edge, safe, user-friendly hair-eliminating solution.

Since its launch last year, this little machine has been earning rave reviews for its effectiveness, ease, and in-home availability. If you want a quick, gentle, safe, and affordable way to diminish unwanted body hair, Silk'n SensEpil really is the way to go. Hold on to your seat a second as the retail price for the device is $499. 

Roxy, I though you said this was an affordable way to diminish unwanted hair?  Yes, I did.  Compare the Silk'n SensEpil to in-salon laser hair removal treatments and this product is a bargain. You won't even find price lists for laser hair removal posted online for salons most of the time because the procedure can be so costly AND generally repeat sessions are needed to gain effective results. Go ahead, google laser hair removal and see if you can find pricing. This device with replacement cartridges provides a lifetime of personal treatments at a fraction of the cost of physician office visits.  I'll tell you how you can even purchase the device with payments over time in just a bit.


Each Silk'n SensEpil packaged unit comes with:
- Silk'n SensEpil device
- Instructional DVD
- Quick start guide and user's manual
- Lamp cartridge (with 750 pulses)
- Power cord


With just two-to-four self-treatment sessions, most users experience visually diminished hair that is comparable to results produced by professionally administered laser procedures. Six to eight treatments yields even better results!

User satisfaction and clinical results to consider:
- 80% of users experienced a noticeable reduction in hair after 3 months.
- 90% preferred using Silk'n to visiting a spa or salon.
- 90% said they would recommend Silk'n to a friend.
- 90% described Silk'n as convenient, easy, useful, and innovative.

Click here to view some before and after photos

The Silk'n SensEpil device features state-of-the-art, skin-sensing technology that dramatically increases the safety of the already safe and reliable Silk'n brand. SensEpil's built-in skin sensor will only activate a pulse of light energy onto appropriate skin types, ensuring maximal safety. It is designed for use on legs, arms, underarms, bikini lines, and other areas of the body where hair removal is desired; it is not recommended for use on the face. This tool is ideal for use with lighter skin tones.

I'm very pleased with the results from Silk'n SensEpil.  It does take some committment as the treatments take time to show visible results, but it's well worth it in the long run.  Hair seems to become less course, is thinner in grow-out, lighter and after having used the device for the past eight weeks I'm not having to shave or wax for long periods of times!

Learn more about how to use and care for the Silk'n SensEpil by viewing their video here.

Silk'n SensEpil retails for $499 and is available at Sephora and at Silkn.com, where you may also choose to purchase the device in smaller payments.