SPA SWEEPSTAKES - TRAVEL TO WELLNESS

Weight Loss & Fun Program Prize at Spa Eastman, Quebec, Canada
Enter by August 31st
GRAND PRIZE: Winner and guest will receive seven nights accommodation for one person, in a superior room with fireplace; personalized nutritional program, according to a health assessment with Spa Eastman's naturopath health coaches; three meals of fine spa cuisine per day plus health snack every afternoon; NIA Technique fitness classes; a complete schedule of workshops, conferences and activities that will help you become more aware of your body and gain a general feeling of well-being; a 60-minute consultation with Spa Eastman's naturopath; training routines that can be done at home will also be provided for you at the end of the week; complete access to Eastman-les-Bains Hydrotherapy zone (pools, outdoor hot tubs, polar bath, Kneipp bath and Kneipp circuit, hammam); and access to the hiking trail and access to the gym. Approximate Retail Value $3,000

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - ST. JEAN PERFECT PICNIC SWEEPSTAKES

St. Jean Perfect Picnic Sweepstakes
Enter by August 31st
GRAND PRIZES: Fifteen Sweepstakes Grand Prizes. Yes, 15! Grand Prize Winners and a guest will receive, "The Perfect Picnic" in Sonoma, California, including a 3 day/2 night trip to the Chateau St. Jean winery in Sonoma, California; 2 nights’ hotel accommodations (double occupancy); round trip coach air transportation from a major airport near Winners’ residence to San Francisco; limousine transportation for 1 day; a private winery tour and picnic; 1 Spa treatment and 2 breakfasts. Approximate Retail Value (“ARV”) $2,848 each.
Total ARV of all prizes: $42,720.

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - BARBADOS

Taste Paradise Sweepstakes
Enter by August 31st
GRAND PRIZE: One winner and guest will receive a round trip coach air transportation to Barbados; 2-nights hotel accommodations; ground transportation to and from the Location airport; a spa treatment for winner and guest; and two tickets to the Barbados Food & Wine and Rum Festival scheduled for November 18-21, 2011. Winner and traveling companion must travel on same itinerary, tentatively scheduled for November 18th-20th, 2011 but subject to change. Approximate Retail Value $4,000

JURLIQUE - YOUR SUN-DAY BEST

Discover this limited edition collection of our best-selling day care products, because sun protection doesn’t end with summer. Value of $82 (a 30% savings!). When ordering don't forget to ask for your special Gift With Purchase, as seen below.
The Set Contents: Sun Lotion SPF 30 (100ml), Daily Exfoliating Cream (15ml), Balancing Day Care Cream (15ml), all packed beautifully in an exclusive Jurlique Cosmetic Bag. The Ingredients . . . UVA and UVB Filters (such as Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate and Oxybenzone combine with Titantium Dioxide) to protect skin from UVA & UVB radiation, Vitamin E to act as a natural antioxidant, Avocado, Jojoba Oil and Glycerin to hydrate and protect the skin against dehydration.

IN THE NEWS: VITAMIN D

New research published in the August 15th issue of the Archives of Dermatology stated the higher a person's vitamin D levels, the higher the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Since ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure is necessary for vitamin D production in the body, it may suggest that people with more sun exposure tend to develop more non-melanoma skin cancers. It's unclear whether it's the damage from UV rays that accounts for the risk, or rising vitamin D levels that accompany exposure to the rays.

This information rivals another more recognized study suggesting that higher vitamin D levels might actually protect against skin cancer. This could be because vitamin D may inhibit a pathway involved in cancer, said Dr. Melody Eide, a dermatologist with Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit and lead author of the current study.

Eide and colleagues based their findings on 3,223 mostly female, white patients in a Detroit health maintenance organization who had visited a doctor either because they had osteoporosis or low bone density. Many more patients (2,257) had too-low levels of vitamin D than had adequate levels (966). Over a follow-up period of almost 10 years, 163 participants developed basal cell carcinoma, 49 developed squamous cell carcinoma, and 28 developed both.

It's a triangular relationship between UV light with the production of Vitamin D and the induction of skin cancer," Eide said. "That makes it difficult to know." The study didn't take into account lifetime sun exposure, family history of skin cancer, vitamin Dsupplementation, exercise, smoking or several other factors that might have influenced the outcome of the study. In addition, the study authors noted that it was "highly likely" that the participants' exposure to sunlight might have skewed the results. "We need some measure of lifetime cumulative UV exposure, which is very difficult to measure," Eide said. "We tend to move around a lot; people go on vacations. There could be critical windows during our life."

IN THE NEWS: GUINOT HYDRA SENSITIVE FACE MASK

Launching October 2011 . . .
Sensitive and overly reactive skin is often the result of the breakdown of the skin’s natural defenses. To relieve and combat the side effects of sensitive skin, Guinot has introduced the Hydra Sensitive Face Mask, an in-depth treatment that immediately works to reinforce the skin’s natural defenses while also calming and soothing common irritations such as tingling, pulling, heat, and redness.

The Hydra Sensitive Mask uses scientifically effective ingredients such as…
- Vitamin E and sweet almond oil work to immediately strengthen and reinforce skin, specifically developing the skin’s cutaneous barrier function and the hydro-lipid film to fight off the effects of external aggressors, (UV radiation, pollution and micro-organisms, as well as internal causes of sensitivity, such as stress).
- Lymphokinine complex, made of chamomile extract, oak, and Epaline (a fatty acid), works to calm and soothe irritation deep beneath the skin’s surface.
- Centella asiatica plant extract, an herbaceous plant found in India, Sri Lanka, northern Australia, and Indonesia, also works to calm and soothe irritation from within the deepest layers of the skin.

IN THE NEWS: ESPA

ESPA already has a global reputation as a pioneer of the modern spa movement with their multi-award winning line up of products; now the renowned brand is upping the ante. Along with the launch of several new products, ESPA has completely reformulated it entire skincare collection.

ESPA has scrutinized each product’s formulation with in-house bio-chemists to ensure all products are now made with 99% natural ingredients. Virtually completely new products, they have undergone rigorous testing and are now even more effective than their predecessors. This new product lineup is robust and exciting with its best-selling hero products re-invigorated and new products that are sure to become favorites.

In line with the updated product formulations comes a bold, beautiful new look and feel for the brand’s packaging. All products now feature ESPA’s upgraded color palette and clear, solution-focused product information. For more information go to ESPAonline.com

POMEGA5 DAILY PURIFYING FACE MIST

Daily Purifying Face Mist effectively hydrates, balances and calms the skin. This gentle facial tonic is made with pomegranate, blue cornflower-rose infusion and citrus essential oils for a delicate, uplifting scent you will fall in love with over and over again.

To receive 15% off your order of under $200, use promo code "15Summer2011"

To receive 25% off your order of over $200, use promo code "25Summer2011"

Offer is valid through Sunday, August 21st, 2011

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - AARP AND RED MOUNTAIN SPA

AARP FUN FOOD CHALLENGE
Enter by August 13th
GRAND PRIZE: One winner and guest will receive a trip for two to St. George, Utah. Trip package includes round-trip, coach-class air transportation for two; three nights' accommodations at Red Mountain Spa; ground transportation to and from airport and hotel; three healthy gourmet meals per day; access to daily morning guided hikes, sports activities, fitness center, fitness classes (including Yoga and Pilates), cooking demonstrations, nutrition classes, indoor and seasonal outdoor pools, and whirlpools; complimentary bike rental; and a $500 allowance per person for Spa treatments. Approximate Total Retail Value $4,800.

Beta Hydroxy Acid - BHA

In the world of cosmetics, Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) is the term used to describe an oil-soluble, natural occurring acid that exfoliates cellular buildup while targeting the oil embedded in the pores. Although the exfoliation properties are similar to Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), BHA performs at a deeper level with the ability to penetrate the pores and dislodge impurities. Oily, acne prone skin benefits more from this type of exfoliant than the AHAs. Beta Hydroxy Acid is considered less irritating than the AHAs, but the skin needs to be gradually introduced to this ingredient. Caution is required to prevent redness and inflammation.

Salicylic Acid is the star of this show. Derived from willow bark, salicylic acid is an effective weapon used against non-inflamed acne, psoriasis and eczema. Found in cleansers, lotions and creams, this ingredient speeds up cell turnover and targets the activity going on in the pores to help prevent clogging while breaking down blackheads and whiteheads. Its natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties have a positive effect on troubled skin, which in turn, results in improved skin texture and skin tone. A star indeed.

A few words of warning . . . those with an allergy to aspirin should avoid any products containing this ingredient as salicylic acid is part of the aspirin family. Sensitivity to sun exposure greatly increases so it is an absolute must to use an SPF. Pregnant women should check with their doctors before using any products containing a BHA.

ALPHA HYDROXY ACID HEALTH REVIEW

Does the use of Alpha Hydroxy Acids increase the risk of skin cancer?
There has been a fair amount of buzz, and perhaps a little bit of negative press, regarding AHAs and cancer. To date, no studies have found a credible correlation between products that contain Alpha Hydroxy Acid and cancer. There is, however, the distinct warning that Alpha Hydroxy Acids may make the skin more sensitive to the sun, and everyone knows that too much unprotected exposure to the sun has the potential to cause skin cancer. A word of caution, however. High concentrations of glycolic acid are being sold on the internet in home exfoliation/peel DIY kits. If the concentration is too high, or the product is improperly used, there is a very real possibility of burning the skin which could result in permanent damage. As always, do your homework. Leave this type of skin care in the safe hands of your estheticians and/or dermatologists. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Apha Hydoxy Acid - AHA

Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) is the term used covering a broad range of water soluble, naturally occurring acids (fruit, milk) that are specifically incorporated into products to provide dynamic exfoliating benefits to the skin. AHAs work on the upper layer of the skin dislodging surface impurities, evening texture, smoothing the skin, attracting moisture, effectively reversing sun damage, and promoting cellular renewal. Quite a bag of tricks. The decomposition of dead skin residue also helps boost penetration of other beneficial ingredients.

AHAs may be a good bet if you have dull, 'ho-hum' skin that lacks that healthy glow, but a little caution will go a long way to finding the right product for your skin. Begin with a lower strength and increase slowly while your skin adjusts. This will mitigate any irritation your skin may have to the process, which usually results in redness, dryness and flaking skin. Not attractive.

In order to be sold to consumers, AHAs must have a concentration of less that 10%, although most 'over the counter' products contain 3%. There are five major types of AHAs in skin-care products - glycolic, lactic, malic, citric, and tartaric acids. It is now possible to get buffered glycolic acid products, which maintain a healthy concentration but increase the pH, therefore the exfoliation process takes place without the obvious physical signs of AHA-itis. BTW, fall and winter are the perfect seasons to introduce AHA into a skin care regime since AHAs tend to make the skin quite sensitive to sun exposure. If used during the spring and summer, sun protection is an absolute must.

ACUPRESSURE vs ACUPRESSURE FACIALS

Acupuncture involves the application of filaments (needles) piercing the skin at specific points, and in some cases, manipulating them into position. It must be performed by someone specifically trained in the field of acupuncture. Although the procedure may lead to visible results, it may not be the most pleasant process for those sensitive to touch. One time treatments yield short-term minimal results, therefore, a series of 8 to 12 treatments are needed for longer lasting results. Acupuncture works on the concept of balance, the yin and yang, which gives the skin an overall healthy glow, stimulates collagen, and minimizes fine lines.

Acupressure, on the other hand, is generally more pleasant and easily worked into a facial treatment. The theory of the meridians and acupressure points follows that of acupuncture without the application of needles. Acupressure involves the application of pressure on specific points to address detoxification, regeneration, elimination, improving energy flow, and enhancing the well being of the client and skin. It also requires specific training, but not the years of study required for acupuncture. Many estheticians incorporate some acupressure in their massage, some have been trained on specific points to address specific concerns, while others have been trained extensively enough to offer acupressure treatments designed to compliment the skincare plan and address the concerns of each client. For best results a series of treatments is recommended, 2 or 3 times a week for 10 to 12 treatments, depending on the desired outcome.

Acupuncture and acupressure can both offer results, however, acupressure is more common in the esthetic industry. Acupuncture is more popular in the para-medical, or medical field, and is most often used to address conditions or injuries that are more critical than aging. There are also some machines on the market that offer light therapy in combination with pressure point massage which intensify the results dramatically.

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - SA WEEK AND JOY BAUER

FAST TRACK TO HEALTH GIVEAWAY AT THE BIGGEST LOSER RESORT
Enter by September 11th
GRAND PRIZE: One winner and guest will receive a stay in double occupancy accommodations at The Biggest Loser Resort in Malibu, California for six nights; three meals daily; all non-alcoholic beverages daily fitness and exercise activities; daily nutrition and education classes; one private session with the onsite executive Chef; four spa services per person (not to exceed a total value of $800); grand prize winner also receives one personalized nutritional counseling program designed by Joy Bauer; one copy of the book, Food Cures, by Joy Bauer; $175 worth of SpaWeek gift cards. Approximate Total Retail Value $5,665
Note: Airfare, tax and service charge are not included.