I Need New Skin...Help!

Microdermabrasion can be a great way to press the reset button on your skin every season. It's a unique, non-invasive mechanical peeling method that uses vacuum action to systematically propel a sand-like substance onto the skin’s surface. This substance or corundum gradually abrades the skin's surface, giving way to a refreshed and healthy smooth appearance. It's a terrific option for skin types with sensitivities to chemicals, and it most successfully addresses skin conditions such as acne-prone, fine lines, uneven texture & mild scarring.

Why we love it!

• Revitalizes dull skin
• Reduces pore size
• Minimizes fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scarring
• Deep exfoliation (pain free!)
• Reduces uneven skin texture, stretch marks, and age spots

Now What?

We recommend doing one microdermabrasion treatment once per season for a deep exfoliation. However, having monthly treatments can also be a great option, depending on your skin type. Our favorite combo is a microdermabrasion followed by a customized facial because of its increased effectiveness on your skin. Microdermabrasion is oftentimes done in a monthly series anywhere from 6-12 times a year. Our recommendation for you will depend on your age, skin condition and your desired results.

When to skip the Microderm

Microdermabrasion can aggravate some skin conditions, so it's not for everyone. Give us a call and one of our skilled aestheticians can discuss the best option for your skin type. Microdermabrasion is not recommended if you are on oral blood thinners or Accutane or have any of the following:

• Active, uncontrolled or brittle diabetes
• Viral lesions, Herpes Simplex, Shingles
• Eczema of Seborrheic dermatitis
• Rosacea
• Skin cancer and some auto immune disorders
• Vitiliago
• Telangectasis
• Visible, broken blood vessels
• Sunburned skin

Ready for some reflexology?

Currently, our massage therapists are trying their hands (and feet) at reflexology and we will be adding it to our menu in March. For those not familiar with this modality, our friends over at Seattle Reflexology & Massage Center have summed it up nicely:

Reflexology is based on the principle that the feet, hands and ears are microcosms (mini-maps) of all systems of the body. Specific manual pressure to any of the microcosms stimulates the corresponding part (reflex) of the body as well as the nervous system. Focused stimulation of the reflexes helps release stagnant toxins, thereby reducing stress on the body.

Still not sure? Well, here are a few more tid-bits to put your mind at ease. A 2007 study published by the Oncology Nursing Society found that " [after receiving] foot reflexology, patients experienced a significant decrease in pain intensity and anxiety." (Vol.34,Num. 1/2007). Another small-scale study conducted on patients with "congenital anomalies of limbs development and trauma consequences" found that "reflexotherapy [i.e. reflexology] can accelerate the process of patients' rehabilitation" (Saratov Journal of Medical Scientific Research 2008).

As always, we practice our new modalities on each other. So you can rest assured that we won't be introducing anything to our clients that we haven't already tried on each other (and LOVED).