Top Five Trends in Spas - Fully Clothed Mini Massages

There are two very good reasons that fully clothed massages are a rising trend.
• We live in a fast paced world where stress fills the tanks of those living an 'on-the-go' lifestyle. Express spas, airport spas, massage bars, and in-chair massage hubs are popping up everywhere. These 15 to 20 minute mini massages are an oil-free, 'better than nothing' approach at targeting the knots in our shoulders, neck, back and hands without the hassle of undressing, which can sometimes be, . . . well, a pain in the neck.
• A recent report disclosed that 70% of spa visitors have never had a massage. Almost 3/4 of all spa visitors have not taken the plunge, so to speak, and dropped their clothing for the sake of stress. The reason? The personal discomfort of having to undress creates an anxiety and an awkwardness that quickly cancels out the desire to take part. These 15 minute wonders increase circulation, rejuvenate tired limbs, and relieve stress. At the average rate of $1.00 to $2.00 per minute, these minis won't break the bank.

Top Five Trends in Spas - It's All About The Green . . . Environment and Finances

It is all about the green. Organic products, water conservation, active recycling programs, low energy lighting, etc. Yes, we are delighted to report the green movement is one of the top trends in the spa industry, but that is not the kind of green we are talking about in Trend #2.

We are actually addressing the other green, . . . money. It is no surprise that many consumers are cutting back on spending. In perfect harmony, spas are getting creative to find ways to honor customers looking for refuge in a very stressful economy. This is an opportunity for spa-goers to shop around for some stress-busting deals.

Here are a few tips to help. Booking midweek is generally cheaper than weekend treatments at many destination/resort spas, and if it is not, ask for it. Don't be shy, everyone understands this is a time where cutting costs is the diligent thing to do. Many spas are offering menu samplers, family discounts, girlfriend getaway deals, etc., but don't be surprised if you don't find them listed on the spa menu. Again, take a deep breath and ask for their under-the-table specials. Look into booking smaller treatments with bite-size price tags, such as mini massages, manicures, hand massage, pedicures, neck and shoulder massages. Take care of yourself during this very stressful time. Your good health is counting on you.

Top Five Trends in Spas - Homestay Vacations & Fertility Treatments

Spas are reporting an increase in couples booking spa getaways together. Instead of taking a trip abroad, which has become financially prohibitive in this type of economy, couples are booking their vacations at resorts that cater to spa lovers. Side-by-side massages, facials, manicures and pedicures are popular treatments for anniversaries, birthdays and Valentines Day celebrations.

There is another reason why this couple trend is growing. Holisitic fertility treatments. Acupuncture, fertility yoga, fertility reflexology, three hour daily massages, heat treatments and other ancient fertility treatments are just some of the spa services offered to couples having difficulty conceiving a child. This trend is certain to continue since one in six couples struggle with infertility. Learning to relax with one another in an environment where both individuals are being cared for seems to be a winning formula. Couples book spa treatments together to become part of a philosophy that rests upon a very sturdy fact that relaxation is the answer to health, healing, happiness, . . . and conception.

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - ENTER TO WIN

The Starter Wife Mollywood Getaway Sweepstakes
Enter by December 18th, 2008
Grand Prize: "Winner and three (3) friends will step into Mollly's shoes and follow her fun-filled daily planner taking them to the hottest locations, from A-list boutiques, to the most exclusive spas and hippest dining locations."

Grand Prize includes round-trip airfare to Los Angeles, CA; three (3) nights hotel accommodations at Beverly Hills Hotel, ground transportation to and from airport and hotel, daily chauffeured transportation in a hybrid SUV, $2,000 Chase Freedom pre-paid cards (per person), and luxurious Signature Bliss Spa Treatments.

Winner and guests will also receive:
• Breakfast for four (4) days at the hotel;
• Lunch for three (3) days;
• Dinner and beverages for three (3) nights;
• Trips to Rodeo Drive/Robertson for shopping;
• Tickets to Los Angeles County Museum of Art;
• Tickets to a show at the Music Center;
• Four (4) Starter Wife Weekend Deluxe Getaway Totes

The Approximate Retail Value (“ARV”) of the Trip is $33,886.

Vanity is Timeless - "The Lighter Side" of Beauty Secrets

During the 17th century, one of the primary ingredients used in anti-aging creams, was . . . wait for it . . . drum roll . . . dog's urine. Honest. You knew that, right? Women were advised to get up each morning and wash their faces in 'puppy water' or 'night water', more commonly known as urine.

Another popular home beauty treatment was a personal collection of urine, mixed with rosewater and lemon peels, for a special daily face wash. Further research finds Ukrainian women from the old country wiped their faces with wet, warm, baby's diapers for younger looking skin. Arabic women were known to wash their hair in camel's urine. The reason? Urine has a lot of uric acid and urea in it, both excellent hydrators. Urine is also a large source of vital nutrients and contains antibodies that cannot be duplicated or derived from any other source. As a powerful wound healer, there is no surprise it was used to control acne. Oh, and the puppy thing? Puppies only drink milk and don't eat meat. The uric concentration (and odor) increases when a more mature dog begins to eat solid food. This beauty ritual gives a whole new meaning to aroma therapy. Pee-you.

Full of Bull - "The Lighter Side" of Beauty Secrets

Do you have dry and unmanageable hair? Tried every product on the market only to find that your hair just does not have lustre anymore? Ah, . . . not to worry. There is a new organic beauty treatment on the horizon that holds promise for your glorious mane.

What is it? Bull semen. That's right. Aberdeen Angus bull semen mixed with Katera, an Iranian plant. This odorless 30 minute treatment is a protein packed masque that guarantees to give your hair the strength and shine of yesteryear. Oh, and the manufacturer promises no animals are hurt in the process. Think about it, . . . on second thought, . . . never mind.

The Dish on Fish - "The Lighter Side" of Beauty Secrets

Sardines as a beauty treatment? Of course, why didn't we think of this. Sardines contain a substance called DMAE that produces dramatic results when applied topically to the skin. What results, you may be wondering? Ah, the two biggies . . . tightening and a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles under the eyes. The instructions are simple. Take two sardines, place one under each eye for 10-15 minutes. The results are said to be evident immediately after the first treatment and increase with repetition. Hey, you'll look great, but you won't win a popularity contest with this one. Don't be surprised when everywhere you go you hear everyone whisper, . . . ."what's that smell?" You may look 10 years younger, but your social life will sink like the Titanic with this treatment.

The Scoop on Poop - "The Lighter Side" of Beauty Secrets

News wires always have a good time reporting the lengths women will go for the sake of vanity. Earlier this year reporters focused on a relatively new exotic skin care masque that has caught on like a house on fire, compliments of an ancient and traditional Japanese society. Um, . . . just one thing. The main ingredient of this magical facial treatment is hummingbird (or nightingale) droppings. Yes, their poop. Apparently the poop contains an enzyme called guanine, which is an amino acid that promotes healing while bleaching the skin. The treatment is a generational custom for geishas, kabuki actors, and monks who polish their bald heads with it. This 60 - 90 minute facial has a price ticket of $200 - $400 per treatment. The information sheet says it is totally organic. Well, duh! It's poop!

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - ENTER TO WIN

How Will You Rock Sweepstakes
Enter by November 30th
Grand Prize: One (1) winner. Two (2) coach airfare tickets from the major commercial airport nearest winner's primary residence in the US to San Diego, one round-trip auto transportation between San Diego International Airport and Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, one (1) Rock Star Suite (double occupancy) for three (3) nights at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, Daily Breakfast for two at Maryjane’s Coffee Shop at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego (4 days), two 50-minute spa treatments at the Rock Spa at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, and $500 shopping spree in the Rock Shop® (valid only at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego location). Also VIP Check-in at the front desk “Green Room”, one dinner for two at Nobu San Diego featuring the signature Omakase menu (alcohol not included), VIP front-of-the-line access into Sweetwater Saloon and Moonstone Lounge (bottle service, food, alcohol are not included) and one daytime use of poolside cabana (bottle service, food, alcohol not included.) The approximate retail value of the prize is $5,500

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - ENTER TO WIN

Michael Kors Holiday '08 Shopping Trip Sweepstakes
Enter by November 30th
Hear Ye, Hear Ye, Project Runway Fans! This week's Spa Sweepstakes delivers a winner straight to the golden doorway of one of the celebrity judges on Project Runway. Seize the moment and gift yourself with a chance to select and take home a few stylish pieces of Michael Kor's beautifully designed clothing. The winner of this contest will be in seventh heaven while going on a shopping trip to New York and spending $1,000 in Michael's store in Soho.

The grand prize also includes airfare, hotel accommodations for a two day, two night trip for two to New York City, pampering at a day spa, . . . and as if that wasn't enough, dinner at one of New York's hottest restaurants. Sign me up! The approximate retail value of the prize is $5,000.

Yoga - The Yin and Yang of Beauty

Yoga offers so many benefits it is no wonder it is sweeping the globe. It balances the body's system, improves vitality, relieves stress and tension, brings more oxygen to the body, controls hormone levels, increases sluggish digestion, flushes out toxins, offers a new level of mental alertness, and improves circulation leading to the reduction in wrinkle formation and producing a natural face lift. Long story short . . . yoga offers a healthy, more youthful way of living.

This is the perfect time of year to incorporate 20 minutes of yoga into each day. Why now? November and December are the busiest times of the year when we have the least amount of energy to burn. Unfortunately, the physical math does not work. Winter is considered the 'yin' season, one that is cool, wet, slow, feminine, and quiet. Summer, on the other hand, is the 'yang' season and is the exact opposite with warm, dry, fast, masculine, and 'anything but quiet' energy.

Winter should be dedicated to storing energy. The winter solstice, three or four days before Christmas, are supposed to be the quietest days of the year, but instead we burn the candle at both ends while taking part in 'yang' activities. We are clearly at odds with our nature adding a great deal of stress to our lives. Stress turns itself outward by accelerating the aging process and causing illnesses.

Yoga has the ability to correct the problem, and in doing so, create a more youthful and harmonious balance. It is said, "if you want to change your appearance, you must first change your thoughts, emotions, and habits where stress and aging originate." A stressed out body and mind will project the same in our appearances. Conversely, if we nourish ourselves by adopting a healthy lifestyle, we will age ever so gracefully. So, what are you waiting for? O-m-m-m-m-m . . .

Terry Face Cloths vs Exfoliators

I am from the old school of thinking when it comes to skin care. Why can't I just use a plain, old terry face cloth to exfoliate my skin and save the money I would otherwise spend on exfoliators?


Using a face cloth to clean the skin is fine as long as it is used in gentle upward circular motions. Having said that, there are many beneficial ingredients incorporated into exfoliators that would be missed by just simply using a terry cloth. More importantly, terry face cloths cannot minimize pores, help hydrate the skin, soothe and calm the skin, draw out impurities and do not have antibacterial capabilities. We highly recommend a consistent exfoliation skin care routine using a product chosen for your particular skin type. Most exfoliators are not very expensive, and in our opinion, the results are definitely worth the money spent.

Oh, and don't forget to exfoliate your entire body. Love the skin you are in!

Lip Schtick Tips

Why is it that the more I lick my lips, the drier my lips get? It is driving me crazy.

Stop licking your lips! Saliva contains digestive enzymes which will wreak havoc on the natural protective coating of your lips. The more you lick, the drier and more uncomfortable your lips will become. The skin on your lips is very thin and has no oil glands to help protect them from the environment.

Drink lots of water, use a humidifier at home, apply a waterproof lip balm that contains natural beeswax, shea butter, vitamin E (break open a capsule and apply to your lips), almond, jojoba, or coconut oils. Petroleum jelly works well, but it is a bit messy. Chapped lips, or those nasty little sores at the corners of your mouth, may indicate a deficiency in B-complex and/or iron.

Take care of your lips, . . . after all, they frame each and every word you say.

Exfoliation Feels Grate, Not Great!

I understand the importance of exfoliating and have tried to incorporate it into my skin care routine but my skin feels tight and red afterward. What am I doing wrong?


Exfoliation should leave your skin with a pink flush and leave a light tingling sensation, . . . the opposite of what is happening to you. Perhaps you need to reconsider how often you exfoliate and/or change the product you are currently using and select one that is not so aggressive. Don't forget to rinse, rinse and rinse again.Exfoliation is an important step in a skin care routine, but it is equally important to choose an appropriate product.

*For reference look at our posts on exfoliators on June 2nd, 4th, and 5th - a few helpful recommendations are listed there.

Antioxidants: The Leader of the Pack

I have been reading your post for sometime now and have learned so much. Thank you! I would like to see a list of antioxidants that I should be eating to begin the beautification process from the inside out.


Great question. The highest level of antioxidant foods generally found in supermarkets are, in order of strength: undutched cocoa powder (twice that of red wine/three times that of green tea); bittersweet chocolate; white tea; green rooibos tea; green tea; red rooibos tea; oolong tea; and black tea. Some studies claim that the blueberry (especially wild blueberry, a.k.a. bilberry) contains more antioxidants than any other mainstream fruit or vegetable, when compared on the basis of equal calories. Others give the top award to Montmorency cherry juice—which does have more calories than blueberries, but is accessible year-round. Other fruits and berries that are high in antioxidants include the blackberry, raspberry, cranberry, cherry (especially the Montmorency, also known as the tart or sour cherry), dried plum (prune), dark grapes (including raisins, purple grape juice and red wine), crowberry (a North American berry that looks similar to a blueberry), kiwi, pomegranate, papaya (a source of vitamin E, lycopene and beta-carotene, three very powerful antioxidants), citrus fruit such as orange and grapefruit (the highest concentration of antioxidants are in the pulp, where the pectin is found); and leafy, dark green cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, daikon radish, kale, kohlrabi, mustard/chard greens, parsnip, rutabaga, turnip and watercress). The latest star of the antioxidant show is the Brazilian acai berry, a true superfruit.

FYI - One cup of green tea has antioxidant effects greater than a serving of broccoli, an antioxidant-rich food. A 2006 study showed that elderly Japanese people who drank more than 2 cups of green tea a day had a 50% lower chance of cognitive impairment than those who drank less green tea, or who consumed other tested beverages. The high amount of catechins in green tea are believed to be responsible.*