SUMMERTIME
SPA THERAPY!

One Hour Relaxation Aromatherapy Massage &
Himalayan Superfruit Facial $150 reg. 190

Himalayan Superfruit FacialAn exotic blend of Goji, Pomegranate, Acai, and Bilberry creates the perfect solution for all skin conditions. A refreshing enzymatic fruit puree dissolves lifeless cells while their seeds gently buff them away. These deliciously aromatic super fruits are packed full of vitamin C, minerals, proteins, and age-defying antioxidants to leave the skin looking smooth and vibrant.

One Hour Relaxation Aromatherapy Massage{refreshing basil lime or cooling peppermint}
Relax and de-stress with a one hour aromatherapy massage infused with essential oils. Chose from the herbaceous aroma of basil and the wonderfully light and uplifting aromatic scent of lime to encourage feelings of positivity and calm or peppermint that creates cooling sensation on the skin while invigorating the mind and senses to inspire a sense of peace.

Epicuren Guava Nectar Invigorating Scrub & 
Hydrating Body Glow Wrap $125 reg. 145
Escape into this calming tropical ritual while your skin takes on a hydrated, healthy radiance. Your journey begins with with lymphatic simulation fromdry brushing followed by a refreshing scrub of sea salts, Polynesian white sand, and guava fruit. Then relax in a cocoon of warmth as your skin soaks up the reparative benefits of natural minerals, healing aloe, and pure coconut milk while receiving a mind clearing, nourishing pressure point scalp massage & foot massage. Then shower off and conclude this soothing experience with Guava Nectar Hydrating Body Emulsion, leaving you stress-free and perfectly smooth. {75 minutes}

Epicuren Guava Nectar Invigorating Body Scrub $75 reg. 95
Immerse into summer state-of-mind while your skin takes on a hydrated, healthy radiance. Your journey begins with lymphatic simulation from dry brushing followed by a refreshing scrub of sea salts, Polynesian white sand, and guava fruit, then shower off. Complete this experience with the tranquil essences of Sandalwood, Water Lily, Grapefruit, and Guava Nectar Hydrating Body Emulsion, leaving you relaxed with sense of complete indulgence! {45 minutes}

Ensure your skin is silky smooth……
Book and receive $100.00 of waxing services in June, July or August and receive a complimentary 2oz Epicuren Afterbath. Limit one per customer. Pick up your waxing punch card upon first service.

Sun Screen ~ Let’s talk protection for my skin!
Sunscreen should be worn year round no matter your skin type or your age protecting you from skin cancer and progressive aging. At Classique Spa we have over 10 professional sunscreens and sun blocks to select from enabling you to not only protect your skin but also ‘treat’ your skin.

The Skin Cancer Foundation* facts about photo aging:
· Up to 90% of the visible changes attributed to aging are caused by UV radiation from the sun
· Degradation of collagen and elastin fibers
· Breakdown of connective tissue causing wrinkles& fine lines
· Hyper pigmentation

Electromagnetic radiation that emits on the earth from the sun in the form of ultraviolet A and B rays are invisible to the human eye however the effects on the skin can be very visible to the human eye.

The difference between UVA and UVB rays:

Ultraviolet A absorbs to the deeper layer of the skin (dermis) is responsible for skin aging and damage versus Ultraviolet B absorbs more on surface layers of the skin (epidermis) causing sunburn. Both rays can contribute to skin cancer.

Let’s talk protection for my skin! Sunscreen and SPF

Sunscreen having a combination of UVA/UVB filters provide complete coverage “broad spectrum”. UV filters can be either chemical or physical. Chemical UV filters stop UV damage by absorbing the UV rays, however some chemicals can also absorb into the skin possible causing irritation. Physical UV filters stay on the top of the skin and protect by absorbing and reflecting the sun’s rays. In the past these type of UV protectors could give a white and caulky appearance to the skin.

Sun Protection Factor is related to the measures ability of the product to protect the skin from UVB rays. Example SPF 15 should allow a person to be in the sun 15 times longer than they would normally be without sunscreen. Clearly this would vary depending on the skin type and could also create a sense that it’s OK to be in the sun because they are protected. However SPF does not represent the UVA ray level of protection.

Professional sunscreens are different than market level sunscreens as they can provide a number of secondary actions for skin treatment like:

· Mattifying effect to dry up excess oil
· Contain additional ingredients for moisturizing, hydrating or aging
· Can include tinted color to give your skin that special glow
· Waterproof options for swimming and sports
· Sheer options for a lightweight feel

Top two staff favorite picks this month are….

Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50
For all skin types, even the most sensitive, seeking a light-weight, non-irritating sunscreen, and first to the market to provide mattifying fluid withtransparent finish, unique shake and apply action to assure even distribution of active ingredient, high SPF and UVA protection, all-physical, broad-spectrum formula (paraben-free).

Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
For all skin types, even the most sensitive, seeking a light-weight, non-irritating sunscreen, and film-less tint adaptable to all skin tones, boost radiance for a more even, luminous complexion, contains transparent Zinc Oxide, the UV filter spanning the full UVA/UVB spectrum, non-comedogenic without chemical filters.

Lots of helpful information at The Skin Cancer Foundation at www.skincancer.org!

*http://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-facts

Schedule Your Spa Service Today
Don’t wait! Schedule a relaxing summertime spa service today or
share the experience with someone special by giving a gift certificate!
Book online or call 206.216.9800!

Skincare For The Eye Area

By Sharlean Windus

The skin around the eye area is delicate and quickly shows the signs of stress, lack of sleep and dehydration. As an Esthetican, I work diligently to assist my clients in achieving good skin tone, boosted levels of hydration and a just an all around bright looking eye area. Enjoy a sampling of my favorite tips to light up your eye area.

1. Never pull or rub the skin in the eye area. 

Use a gentle eye makeup remover or a professional quality cleanser to gently remove eye makeup. Look for my post next week on my favorite eye care products!

2. Always use an eye cream. 
Eye creams are typically formulated to penetrate the skin differently around the eye area so using a facial moisturizer is not enough if you want to see results. A good quality eye cream will work well but it will not do everything and you will need to prioritize your eye area goals. Some eye creams are plumping or hydrating, some are firming and toning and others are resurfacing or exfoliating. I personally like to use two different eye creams but depending on your age, the condition of the skin around the eyes and what you want to accomplish, you may only need one product to achieve results. Think of eye cream not only as a corrective measure but also as a preventative measure in protecting the eye area skin health and vibrancy.

3. Get as much sleep as your body requires. 
Sleep deprivation shows immediately in the eye area. Everyone's body is different and the amount of sleep you need will vary but if you have a poor night's sleep then try doing an eye mask to brighten up the eyes for the day. If you are having sleep challenges like getting to sleep or staying asleep, seek out a Naturopathic Doctor who can help support you holistically in achieving a slumber night's sleep.

4. Stay hydrated.
It is amazing to me how quickly eye area dehydration lines disappear when you get the correct amount of water you need. Try drinking a small glass of water in between your coffee or other daily beverages you like to consume. I love to boost my water with a squeeze of lemon or lime when I need to feel refreshed or a drop of peppermint essential oil when I need digestive support.

5. Reduce salt intake and sleep elevated.
If you are experiencing puffy eyes, try reducing your sodium intake. If you are not currently sleeping slightly elevated, try a larger pillow so that the fluid around the eyes can drain properly and not build up overnight. 

6. Apply a cold eye mask.
I always love putting a little eye cream into a small glass dish, placing the dish into the freezer for a few seconds and then applying the cold eye cream to my eye area. Its quite refreshing when you need that special at home eye enhancement.

7. Book a professional eye treatment.
Most spa's will offer an eye treatment service if you are already receiving a facial. This is a great way to give your eye area that special attention when you need it most.

Everything You Need to Know About the Sun

Everything You Need to Know About the Sun

By Dr. Tamara Dickson 

 It is nearly impossible to get all necessary Vitamin D from dietary sources.  All dietary sources of Vitamin D are animal products like milk, fatty fishes, cod liver oil, egg yolks because Vitamin D is actually a hormone that the body must make, not a vitamin. This poses a problem for people who abstain from eating animal products, all other dietary sources of vitamin D are foods that have Vitamin D added and it is not always added in a form that the body can easily use.  

UV-Beta sunlight exposure to skin is needed to turn the pre-hormone dehydrocholesterol into D3, the active form of Vitamin D that the liver can use. It is later processed through the kidneys. UVB rays are reduced by clouds (impairing Vitamin D synthesis greatly for those in the NW), pollution and will not travel through glass. Generally, the best time to catch UV-B rays is midday (10 am-3pm) when UV-A to UV-B ratio is almost equal. This is important because more skin malignancies are caused by UV-A rays. Unfortunately, the UV-B rays are most responsible for sunburn, too, so how does one keep a balance? 

Within 10-15 minutes of sun exposure at the ideal times, the average fair-skinned person can synthesize up to 10,000 units of Vitamin D, which is 2-3x greater than the average daily supplementation. It can take an African-Americans up to 60 minutes to make the same amount due to how increased melanin pigment in the skin slows the absorption of UV-B rays. So, I suggest applying sunscreen after your initial 10 minutes of sun exposure so you can synthesize your Vitamin D. Darker skinned individuals can wait up to 15 minutes longer. 

Some advice about sunscreen:

-Re-apply sunscreens often. Recent FDA regulations have moved to change labeling such as "water-proof" and "sport-proof" because they mislead consumer into thinking they have more protection than they have. 

-Stick to SPF ranges 15-50. Any SPF above 50 has been shown to be no more effective than a 50 and often contain harsher chemical additives. 

- Chemical additives to avoid are oxybenzone- a synthetic estrogen and retinyl palmitate- a possible carcinogen.  

- Look for active ingredients zinc, titanium, avobenzone or Mexoryl SX. These substances protect  skin from harmful UV-A radiation and remain on the skin, with little penetrance into the body.

Dr. Tamara Dickson

Naturopathic Family Medicine

4411 Fremont Ave N

Seattle WA 98103

Phone: 206-683-4495

 

*Contact Classique Spa for a complimentary consultation where one of our licensed Estheticians will select a sunscreen that's right for your skin type. 206-216-9800

The Right Lotion - No Stick, No Shine, No Stink

The land of lotions can be a tricky one to navigate. So, we've broken it down for you. You can find any ol' lotion to slather on, but we recommend something that doesn't stick, shine or stink.

The Problem: Lotion Woes

1. No Stick:  Lotion as An Adhesive
We've all been there. It's a hot day, you're wearing a skirt, and you lotion up because your legs are so, so dry. Then, somewhere, somehow you're forced to sit on a leather chair. Before you know it, your perspiration has created a chemical reaction and your leg lotion and the chair are one. You're bound to that black leather until you can think of a graceful way to become nonstick. Classy.

2. No Shine:  Lotion As Crisco
This is the tale of the lotion that leaves you looking like a greasy mess. Sure, it might be hydrating, but it gets on your clothes, your friends, and your mother. You might as well have slathered on mineral oil, because your skin refuses to absorb this lotion. Your mom thought you knew better.

3. No Stink:  Lotion As A People Repellent
You don't want something so potent that people know you took the elevator to the 4th floor--3 days ago. You also don't want a lotion that reminds people of a retirement home or of their dead aunt. That would just be sad. Your beauty products should not cause depression in others.


The Solution: Epicuren After-Bath

So, what's a dry body to do? Is there a lotion that doesn't stink, hydrates, and stays with your skin all day, every day? Yes.

Yes there is.

Let me introduce you to Epicuren After-Bath Lotion. This stuff replenishes and hydrates your skin while providing an enzyme vitamin protein complex and antioxidants. Epicuren offers an assortment of fresh scents for this lotion (which we have) but we also carry their unscented version. The After-Bath Lotion is what we use in all our massage sessions and in a variety of of our premier facials. It's our go-to body lotion at Classique Spa and we absolutely love it!

Plus, Epicuren doesn't test its products on animals, it's paraben free and it's super safe for pregnant women and sensitive skin. Our entire staff has used the lotion, so if you want first hand reviews, we'd be more than happen to share our two cents.

Happy Hydrating!







image credit: ReadyMade

More on Reiki

A Reiki session can help create a sense of relaxation, peace, and well-being. It's an energetic type of bodywork that involves light touch and addresses body, mind, and spirit. Now, we realize this might sound a bit too unscientific for some of you left brain folks. So, we did a little digging and found that Reiki can actually help lower blood pressure and reduce your hear rate.

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine showed a small study revealing a "significant reduction in diastolic blood pressure and heart rate in the Reiki group that didn’t appear in the placebo group or the control group." Studies like this seem to indicate that Reiki creates an important effect that isn't caused by suggestion.

Consider giving Reiki a try to see if it's a good fit for you and your well being.

60 Minute Reiki Session: September special: $45
{regularly: $60}



Valid through September 30th. Must use within 6 months of purchase Maximum of three gift certificates per person, per special.
Image credit: google.com via Brittainie on Pinterest

8 Helpful Hints Before You Bare it All

WHY WAX?

Oh my lovelies, you wax because it is SO much easier than shaving. For years I did the ol' razor routine, frustrated with ingrown hairs and my inability to get the closest shave. I wasn't able to justify the time or money for waxing hair that would eventually grow back. If only I had known...

After my first Brazilian I finally realized that the time (and money) were completely worth it. If you're at the gym getting your body bikini ready, trust me, a bikini wax is the finishing touch. You'll get a good 3-4 weeks of hairless skin and no panicking "Shoot! I need to shave!" when you get those last minute let's-hit-the-beach calls. Plus, you'll never "miss a spot." Our aestheticians know that when you want it waxed, you want it gone. Enough said.

NEW TO THE WAX POT?

Here are a few suggestions and helpful hints from those of us who've braved the wax, shed the hair, and lived to rave about the results.

1) Consider popping an ibuprofen or Tylenol an hour before your appointment to help dull the pain. (Stay away from aspirin though, it thins the blood and could make you more prone to bleeding.)

2) The first time will hurt. However, it will hurt no where near what you've allowed yourself to imagine. Remember to BREATHE during the wax and distract yourself by talking to your Aesthetician --she's armed and ready with conversation starters.

3) Wear loose clothing, preferably cotton, and appropriate underwear before and after the wax appointment. The area will be sensitive, so comfort is key.

4) Avoid hot baths, hot tubs and other chlorinated pools, as well as tanning beds and saunas for 24 hours after your wax to protect your new clean skin.

5) A topical ointment like No Bump Rx ($16) will help prevent ingrown hairs after waxing. It's recommended to use it after showering for the first 7-10 days after your wax. However, you can continue to using it right up to your next appointment.

6) Exfoliate! Begin exfoliating 48 hours after your wax to help prevent ingrown hairs and slough off dead skin cells (this is also a great tip for those getting leg waxes). A products like Yonka's Phyto-Gel Exfoliate ($45) can be a great option.

7) Hydrate your skin. You'll want to use a non-toxic, parabin free, unscented moisturizer to prevent dryness. We highly recommend Epicuren's After Bath Lotion ($16-$50), which is a fresh unscented moisturizer with all natural ingredients. It's great for sensitive skin and we love to use it as a body lotion, too.

8) Still unsure? Ask questions. When booking your appointment, ask our staff about the service and express any concerns you might have. We're here to help make your visit as painless as possible and make sure you're prepared. We won't blush at your questions--promise!

{photo credit}

Sunscreen in Seattle - Required All Year Round?

Sunscreen? Really? We're barely having a summer here, and we're talking about sunscreen?

Yes! Yes, we are! In the Pacific Northwest it might seem a little overkill to wear sunscreen. We barely see the sun as it is, and do we really need another product for our faces? But sunscreen is important, even on the cloudy days.

Just because you can't SEE the sun doesn't mean its rays aren't making their way through to your skin. UVA rays happen year round and can penetrate both clouds and glass. This means more wrinkles and premature aging for skin that isn't protected. You may be okay with a few laugh lines, but no one wants extra wrinkles just for fun. 90% of UV radiation is responsible for the aging process, degrading collegen, breaking down connective tissue and skin cancer. That's reason enough to get on the SPF bandwagon.

So, if sunscreen protects our skin and can protect it from the aging process, why aren't more people using it? Up to 40% of clients don't use sunscreen and it's usually because of texture or irritation. Some sunscreens have added chemicals and can seem sticky or thick. Others are difficult for your skin to absorb and can leave you with a white sickly complexion--probably not the look you're going for.

So, we've searched high and low for the best sunscreens for different skin types and different activity levels. Not everyone is going to need waterproof sunscreen every day of the year. And products for oily skin aren't going to cut it for more mature skin. At Classique Spa we've managed to try and test a variety of sunscreens and here is what we have for you. As always, make sure to talk with your esthetician to find out which products work best for your skin type and can maximize the results.


Dermalogica
Ultra Sensitive Faceblock SPF 25, tinted
Dynamic Skin recovery SPF 30

Yonka
SPF 25 Ultra Protection

Epicuren
Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 20

Skin Ceuticals
Physical Fusion UV Defense Spf 50
Sheer physical UV Defense Spf 50
Daily Sun Defense SPF 20
Sport UV Defense Spf 45
Ultimate UV Defense Spf 30
Physical UV Defense Spf 30

photo credit: kristie price photography