Pulse SPA Magazine August 2016

AUGUST 2016

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P U L S E . E X P E R I E N C E I S PA . C O M

Season’s Colors and

Top Trends

Beauty

inspired

FROM YOUR ACTING CHAIRMAN

2016 ISPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTED OFFICERS ACTING CHAIRMAN Todd Shaw La Quinta Resort & Club

o

different

from

books

with stories highlighted in chapters, our lives are a story of many transitions. Far too many times, I have been at several crossroads in my life and have stared at the fork of the road with mixed feelings of fear of the unknown and excitement of the promise of a new adventure. This time, I embrace another chapter as I humbly accept the role of ISPA acting chairman, effective through the end of 2016.

As my good friend and immediate past ISPA Chairman Michael Tompkins turns over the reins so that I—along with the entire ISPA Board—may help continue to steer the association in the right direction as we strive to become an even more united and stronger community. I am beyond grateful to Michael for his

SECRETARY/TREASURER Laura Parsons ESPA International (US) Ltd. (Spa Division) IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMEN Ella Stimpson The Spa at Sea Island Michael Tompkins Hutchinson Consulting DIRECTORS Sharilyn Abbajay ISPA Foundation Vice Chairman Noel Asmar Noel Asmar Group, Inc. Blake Feeney Chaleur Beauty Michael Harmsworth ESPA International (US) Ltd. Todd Hewitt Shangri-La International Kristine Huffman Huffman Hospitality Concepts Garrett Mersberger Kohler Co.

leadership, and I hope to continue what he has started as well as direct our energy to areas that

Julie Oliff St. Regis Aspen

deserve our utmost focus.

Frank Pitsikalis ISPA Foundation Chairman

While I am eager and dedicated to serve you all, I am also aware that this role bears a heavy responsibility. Thus, I ask that you assist me, the Board, and ISPA staff in our common mission to build camaraderie, develop better leaders and strengthen the spa industry. Let us focus our energy on building upon the new. There is no doubt—together, we can do wonders!

As your new ISPA acting chairman, allow me to also invite you to join us at the 2016 ISPA Conference & Expo. With high-caliber speakers like Brené Brown, John Ondrasik and Simon Sinek, this is one industry event you shouldn’t miss. If you have already made plans to join us in Las Vegas this year, I hope you make your ISPA Conference experience count with every

Eric Stephenson Well World Group Dawn Tardif BodiScience Wellness Center & Spa Todd Walter Red Door Spas Lynne McNees International SPA Association MEDICAL ADVISOR Brent A. Bauer, MD Mayo Clinic

lesson learned, business connections made and stranger turned into a lifelong friend!

In many ways, the event gives us a chance to write and rewrite our own stories. Let our time CHAIRMEN’S COUNCIL

at the ISPA Conference be the start of a new chapter—and while we’re at it, let’s make it one heck of a fun-filled adventure!

—TODD SHAW, CHAIRMAN

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Past ISPA Chairmen who are current members: Gayle Brady • Brady Spa Consulting Jeff Kohl • Spa & Club Ideations Jean Kolb • Well By Choice John Korpi • Korpi & Korpi Kate Mearns • 5 Spa Consulting LLC Jim Root • Glen Ivy Hot Springs Jane Segerberg • Segerberg Spa Consulting, LLC Deborah Waldvogel • Sedona Resorts

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE SPA PROFESSIONAL

EXECUTIVE Lynne McNees • ISPA President EDITORIAL Mae Mañacap-Johnson • Editor DESIGN Marja Walker ADVERTISING AND SALES Tara Finn ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Ashley Roberts PRODUCTION MANAGER Chris Guzicki

Pulse is the official publication of the International SPA Association, a member organization for the spa and wellness industry. Copyright 2016.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of ISPA. All inquiries should be sent to Pulse, 2365 Harrodsburg Road, Suite A325, Lexington, KY. 40504 USA. Canadian publication agreement No. 40042114.

PULSE ACCEPTS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR. Please include your name, title, company,

EDITORIAL OFFICES International SPA Association 2365 Harrodsburg Road, Suite A325 Lexington, Kentucky 40504, USA Phone: 1.859.425.5062 1.888.651.ISPA (4772) • Fax: 1.859.226.4445 experienceispa.com

address, phone and email address. Only your name, title, company and location will be published in the magazine. The editor reserves the right to edit for clarity and content. By submitting the letter, you are giving ISPA publishing rights.

Pulse (USPS 017-893, ISSN 15259226) is published 10 times a year – January/February, March/April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December

by Associations International, 2365 Harrodsburg Road, Suite A325, Lexington, Ky., 40504. Periodicals postage paid at Lexington, Kentucky, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Pulse, Attn: Member Services, 2365 Harrodsburg Rd., Suite. A325, Lexington, Kentucky, 40504, USA.

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is the magazine for the spa professional. As the official publication of the International SPA Association, its mission is to serve as the preeminent resource of expert insights, trends, tools and research to help spa professionals create innovative solutions and make informed business decisions.

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! @ISpaDoYou LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! International SPA Association

MARION PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

“Beauty is not in the face; beauty is a light in the heart.”

—Kahlil Gibran, Poet and Author of The Prophet

T

he great poet Kahlil Gibran’s words speak of the truth. Beauty, it seems, is truly something that comes from the heart. Without a good heart, the mind is never at peace. Without a quiet mind, anxiety surfaces on the outside, on

one’s own skin.

This “Beauty and Grooming” issue highlights neuroscientist and Conversations expert, Dr. Claudia Aguirre, who provides a deeper look into an exciting field of medicine called psychodermatology. According to Dr. Aguirre, the concept of the mind-skin connection was first described by dermatologists John H. Stokes and Donald M. Pillsbury in 1930, but the knowledge was somehow buried for years (read page 24).

Today, skin experts and savvy consumers have recognized the undeniable

connection between the skin and emotional and environmental stressors. In fact, one of the beauty trends identified by some of this issue’s experts is the “inside-outapproach” of wellness (read Beauty Talk, page 26).

There’s also a growing concern of the rise of melanoma and the need for the spa industry to help raise awareness on sun safety (read Sun Smart, page 40). In particular, men (read Man-to-Man, page 34) who love the outdoors need to be educated on the

Do you recall

value of protecting one’s skin from the harmful effects of UV rays, especially the risks

that time when

of developing skin cancer.

#nomakeup selfies flooded your Instagram

While the main focus should always be on prevention, it is also inspiring to know

#Iwokeuplikethis

feed? Well, according to Canadean

that the spa industry is helping fight cancer from multiple fronts. For instance, this

Associate Analyst Jamie Mills in this issue’s

issue’s Success Stories (read 56) highlights Hello Gorgeous!, a nonprofit organization

Ask the Expert (page 54), there’s a new

that provides surprise makeovers to cancer patients to help them rediscover this light

beauty trend called #Iwokeuplikethis. So we’re throwing a little Pulse challenge: Why

in the heart which Gibran so rightfully calls “beauty.”

not post morning and just-rolled-out-of-bed selfies on ISPA’s Facebook and Instagram pages using the trending hashtag? Are you bold enough to bare your natural beauty?

—MAE MAÑACAP-JOHNSON, EDITOR @ISPAPULSEEDITOR

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Game on!

AUGUST

V O LU M E 2 6 ISSUE 6

2016

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26

Beauty Talk

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Sun Smart

What’s In, What’s Out

BY MAE MAÑACAP-JOHNSON

Educating Guests on Sun Protection

BY MAE MAÑACAP-JOHNSON

MAN MAN

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SECOND OF THREE-PARTS

In Their Words Get to Know the Expert Speakers

TO

BY MAE Meeting the MAÑACAPJOHNSON Demands of Male Spa-Goers

52 2016 ISPA CONFERENCE & EXPO UPDATES

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pulse.experienceispa.com

24

51

54

56

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IN EVERY ISSUE 2 6 14 16

From the Chairman Pulse Preview Pulse Points Adam Broderick Salon & Spa Urban Chic Destination in Suburban Setting

BY MAE MAÑACAP-JOHNSON

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51 54

Ask the Expert: Jamie Mills Associate Analyst Canadean

56

Success Stories: Kim Becker Founder/President Gorgeous! of Hope, Inc South Bend, Indiana

58 59 60

ISPA News and Calendar

Member News

BY TARA SALAH ELDIN AND BRIANA LEE

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Conversations: Dr. Claudia Aguirre

BY MAE MAÑACAP-JOHNSON

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SEE + BE SEEN

A Day in the Life: Carolyn Doe Spa Director, Umstead Hotel and Spa Cary, North Carolina

61 63

Snapshot Survey

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End Notes

Social Connections: Mia Richardson Founder and CEO Comphy Co. Ferndale, Washington

ISPA Foundation Product Spotlight

ABOUT THE COVER Beauty is inspiring. In this “Beauty and Grooming” issue of Pulse magazine, the cover is as colorful as this season’s trends. This issue covers it all—from what’s hot right now in beauty, how men spa to why sun safety is important.

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COVER PHOTO © SHUTTERSTOCK

PULSE POINTS

What’s Trending in 2016 for Employer Health and Wellness? survey conducted by Springbuk Analytics, a population health solution for employers, brokers and on-site clinics, indicates that there’s a trending direction for employers or companies to look at managing health costs and helping employees improve their health.

What drives employers to introduce “health & wellness” programs within their businesses? A survey states that employers “do health and wellness because they struggle to identify at-risk members.” Based on the survey, 62 percent of employers cannot identify hypertensive members, 60 percent cannot identify diabetic members while 52 percent cannot identify obese members. Survey results also show 37 percent of employers offer near or an on-site clinic to employees. In terms

A

86%

Nutrition/Healthy Eating

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of investment, 34 percent are considering measuring return on investment.

So where exactly are employers investing? l 86% Nutrition/Healthy Eating l 84% Activity/Fitness l 82% Weight Management Have you considered opportunities of partnering with employers to provide them health and wellness services for their employees? Providing employee discounts exclusively to partner companies can help draw interest to your spa within your local community. Consider adding value to their health and wellness programs by hosting workshops and events at workplaces that help educate employees on the value of embracing a healthy lifestyle.

84%

Activity/Fitness

82%

Weight Management

Taking Short Breaks in Using PersonalCare Products Helps to Significantly Decrease Hormone-Disrupting Chemicals study led by researchers at UC Berkeley and Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas shows that levels of hormone-disrupting chemicals in the body significantly dropped when a short break is taken from using certain kinds of makeup, shampoos and body-care products.

There were 100 Latina teenagers who participated in the Health and Environmental Research on Makeup of Salinas Adolescents (HERMOSA) study. Teen study participants were provided personal-care products labeled free of chemicals, such as phthalates, parabens, triclosan and oxybenzone. These chemicals are widely used in personal-care products and have been shown in animal studies to interfere with the body’s endocrine system.

Urine samples were collected and analyzed before and after

A

the three-day trial. The results were promising: Metabolites of diethyl phthalate, commonly used in fragrances, decreased 27 percent by the end of the trial period. l Methyl and propyl parabens, used as preservatives in cosmetics, dropped 44 and 45 percent respectively. l Triclosan, found in antibacterial soaps and some brands of toothpaste, and benzophenone-3 (BP-3), found in some sunscreens under the name oxybenzone, fell 36 percent.

How are you educating your guests, especially the next generation of spa-goers, about the dangers of certain ingredients commonly found in their beauty products? As primary consumers of personal-care products, women are more likely to be exposed to these hormone-disrupting chemicals. Teen girls, in particular, are at higher risk because they are still going through rapid reproductive and physical development. n l

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MEMBER PROFILE

ADAM BRODERICK SALON & SPA

Urban Chic Destination in Suburban Setting

BY MAE MAÑACAP-JOHNSON

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Adam Broderick Salon & Spa underwent renovations to include an amenity-rich and tech-savvy redesign to meet the needs of its guests.

“We are relying on increased amenities for clients such as complimentary Starbucks coffee, wine for evening clients, upgraded linens to better Wi-Fi as mainstays of our programs.”

— ADAM BRODERICK, OWNER

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efore Adam Broderick opened his own salon & spa business, Broderick had already earned a name for himself since the late 1980s as one of the well-reputed hair colorists in New York. With his vision to create a multi-awarded salon & spa, he brought the big city influences in suburbia when he opened the Adam Broderick Salon & Spa in Ridgefield and, later, in Southbury, Connecticut.

With a growing clientele, its 12,000square-foot Ridgefield location underwent renovations and unveiled last year a fresh new look that reinforces its urban chic concept. The renovation of its flagship location includes an amenityrich and tech-savvy redesign to meet the needs of its always-connected guests.

The redesign incorporates a tablet check-in system, strategically located charging stations all throughout the salon & spa, high-speed Wi-Fi and a digital video wall. It also features an amenity area, where guests may enjoy freshly brewed Starbucks coffee and wine. The facility features a nail bar, spa, boutique and salon area, with the latter boasting of luxurious cutting and wash stations.

Guests are welcomed at an urban, modern reception area once they step into the newly renovated Adam Broderick Salon & Spa.

Exceeding Guests’ Expectations From the start, Broderick’s vision is to bring the high standards he was used to while working in Manhattan into his own salon & spa business. Thus, “exceeding guest expectations” has become a work mantra as he instills this very same standard to his staff daily.

“Guests want value more than ever,” Broderick says. “Whether that is a US$200 Natura Bisse Facial experience or one of our three-pack facials, they look for value. For our guests, value for their money means noticeable results.”

Its anti-aging treatments are among the spa’s popular services. Guests are

offered a wide range of facial treatment selections, which include SkinCeuticals Science Therapy, Éminence Organic Skin Care Botanical Facial and 30-minute Express Facial for guests who do not have the time for longer treatments.

To meet the demands of guests who want products without the harmful ingredients, Broderick made sure that the spa carries organic products. “When it comes to these types of guests, we see clients fall into two categories. The natural-oriented clients sometimes have a more relaxed attitude about the natural aging process, while those who focus on results expect facial treatments that use the top anti-aging products,” he says.

Broderick also recognizes that the majority of their guests are busy, working professionals, which is why integrating technology into the spa was an important business strategy. He also carefully looks into convenience for its guests, especially when creating the menu of services.

Offering a full-range of services meant giving guests the convenience of addressing all their beauty needs in one visit under one roof.

Staying Competitive Broderick is aware that one of their biggest competitors are membershipbased day spas, which is why he ensures that they offer their own unique

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MEMBER PROFILE

Adam Broderick Salon & Spa's interior design is cozy with neutral tones.

set of packages and programs to stay competitive.

“We have been marketing short, results-oriented spa packages that deliver a better frequency as well as better results for our clients,” Broderick says. “We are relying on increased amenities for clients such as complimentary Starbucks coffee, wine for evening clients, upgraded linens to better Wi-Fi as mainstays of our programs.”

On a regular basis, the salon & spa offers three different types of packages that make for popular gift ideas for guests. Its most time-extensive package, Give Bliss, is a six-hour, headto-toe beauty makeover for a full relaxation experience.

The spa also attracts groups through its spa parties. Girls Night Out is a popular spa party offering, while Mini Me Child parties draw the younger guests into the spa.

The Customization Factor Broderick believes it is important to meet

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customers’ needs through customization.

“We have an innovative new program called ‘My Massage’ which we launched a year ago. It makes it easy for the client to see a list of add-ons to their service,” he says. “Guests are customizing their own service even before a treatment begins.

Some of the customizations are complimentary while a few add-ons are with extra charge. The program has been very successful and we have added it to our facial program as well.”

For instance, guests may avail of a 15-minute de-stress scalp massage for an extra US$25 on top of their full body massage treatment or enjoy a complimentary dry brush exfoliation with a deep-tissue massage.

To empower staff members to recommend customized treatments to guests, Broderick invests in proper education and training. “We rely on one-on-one coaching and include roleplaying in order to build confidence in selling services and products. We also utilize our training studio for group

meetings, including Microsoft PowerPoint presentations to keep the group focused and engaged,” he says.

Part of the customization experience is to create market-specific services. To cater to its male guests, the salon & spa offers male-exclusive treatments like brow grooming service called Guybrows and hair or beard service called Men’s Express Gray Blending.

In the end, for the salon & spa that was once honored “Salon of the Year”

by Modern Salon Magazine, it’s about paying attention to the guests and making sure that the people behind Adam Broderick Salon & Spa remain true to the brand of providing urban chic salon and spa experiences in a suburban setting. After all, this has what made the salon & spa unique from its competitors at the onset. n

ABOUT THE SPA Adam Broderick Salon & Spa Renovation: 2015 Flagship Location Square Footage: 12,000 Signature Salon Services: ab Rebuilder Hair Treatment and ab Well Water Remedy Hair Treatment Signature Spa Treatments: ab Moroccan Massage Ritual Products: SkinCeuticals, Natura Bisse International, Eminence Organic Skin Care Address: 89 Danbury Road Ridgefield, Connecticut Phone: 1.203.431.3994 Website: adambroderick.com

MEMBER NEWS B Y TA R A S A L A H E L D I N A N D B R I A N A L E E

THE SPA SHIFT Announcements marking spa industry players on the move. ●

Elemis has announced the appointment of Georgia Louise Vassanelli as Elemis Consulting Facialist.

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Naturopathica has named Heather Neufeld as Spa Director of Naturopathica Chelsea in New York, New York.

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Mohonk Mountain House has announced the appointment of Dr. Nina Smiley to Director of Mindfulness Programming.

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Mandarin Oriental Miami in Miami, Florida has appointed Clifford W. Atkinson as General Manager.

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Spa Shiki at the Lodge of Four Seasons in Lake Ozark, Missouri has announced the promotion of Jessica Smith to Assistant Spa Director.

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Phytomer Group Brands has appointed Allison Daugherty, a Phytomer Group Brands USA educator for more than 10 years, to Account Manager for the Western region.

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Blake Feeney has been named Vice President of Business Development at Chaleur Beauty in Henderson, Nevada.

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Kerstin Florian International in Lake Forest, California has appointed Julie Andrews as President.

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Georgia Louise Vassanelli

Heather Neufeld

Dr. Nina Smiley

Clifford W. Atkinson

Jessica Smith

Allison Daugherty

Blake Feeney

Julie Andrews

NEW ON THE MENU 1. Spa Esencia at Hyatt Regency Trinidad in Port of Spain, Trinidad is offering three locally inspired organic treatments for guests. The Cocoa Bean Body Wrap uses locally sourced cococa beans infused with oils and spices to exfoliate the skin. The Papaya Body Polish contains Papain, a gentle exfoliant derived from papaya. The Royal Coconut Milk and Honey Ritual uses coconut milk, honey, sugar cane and exotic drift nut oils to exfoliate, hydrate and leave guests with glowing skin.

2. Spa Revolutions in Escondido, California has expanded their selfheating Lava and Glacial massage body treatments to include facials. The shell facial combines the therapeutic warmth of Lava Shells with the cooling sensation of Glacial Shells to stimulate circulation and eliminate toxins while firming and toning the skin.

BRILLIANT IDEA TAC | The Assistant Company has developed a new Kiosk for fitness clubs which allows visitors to log in, book training sessions or spa appointments, and easily pay without their wallets.

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MEMBER UPDATES

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1. Performance Health presented the 2016 AFMTE, Biofreeze and Bon Vital’ Educators of the Year Award to Julie Goodwin in the teacher category and Dale Alexander in the continuing education category. The award recognizes excellence in massage and bodywork education.

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2. Technogym has announced a new partnership with the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) to create premium educational content for the fitness industry.

3. Solage Calistoga hosted Wellness Week in July. The week included daily

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workout sessions, full moon floating meditation, aromatherapy session and a wine pairing dinner.

4. 5 Spa Consulting LLC will partner with Connect2Concepts to provide spas with efficient and eco-friendly solutions to daily spa operations using a software designed specifically for the fitness, sport and spa industries.

5. Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa offered the Yoga Is My Gym retreat which featured former NFL linebacker Brian “BJ” Jones and Gwen Lawrence, yoga coach for many professional athletes including the New York Giants. The retreat challenged attendees with power and flow classes as well as restorative yoga and meditation. Attendees also experienced horseback riding, spa treatments and canyon excursion.

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6. The historic Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia

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was temporarily closed for business due to severe damage caused by flooding, offering a limited number of guest rooms and meals to those who were impacted by flood waters. The Greenbrier kept their clinic open for those who were in need of medical care.

GIVING BACK In honor of World Oceans Day on June 8, Hilton Worldwide reinforced its commitment to the environment by announcing its multi-year sustainable seafood goals, which are comprised of a global ban on the procurement of endangered species and a transition to sustainable seafood purchasing.

IN MEMORIAM The spa community mourns the loss of Mick Walton, patriarch of the Walton family who founded VOYA Products Ltd. in Co Sligo, Ireland. Walton was exceptionally proud of his family as well as the success of VOYA and all of its employees, whom he treated like family. A loving husband and father, he was a bright light to everyone touched by his kind soul. He will be greatly missed.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS The Spa at Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa in Las Vegas, Nevada has reopened after a multi-million-dollar renovation. The spa offers a new menu that features cutting-edge fitness classes as well as a new layout that encourage a sense of community.

The renovated salon offers post-treatment offerings such as full-service hair, barber and nail services.

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CONVERSATIONS WITH CLAUDIA AGUIRRE

BY MAE MAÑACAP-JOHNSON

As a neuroscientist and skin expert, Dr. Claudia Aguirre specializes in the brain-skin connection. In the medical world, this unique interaction of mind and skin has given birth to psychodermatology, a relatively new discipline in psychosomatic medicine that looks into how emotional and environmental stressors affect the skin.

Dr. Aguirre has extensively spoken about the brain-skin connection, including at TEDxUCLA. She is also part of the scientific committee of [ comfort zone ] wherein she advises its R&D team regarding the development of new skin-care products. “I became involved with [ comfort zone ] a year ago after meeting the chairman, Davide Bollati. The committee includes a dermatologist, a cardiologist and myself (a neuroscientist). Together, we bring our expertise from different areas and help trigger ideas about future products or treatments for [ comfort zone ],” she says.

In this Conversations, Dr. Aguirre provides a more scientific look at how the brain affects the skin.

PULSE: What sparked your interest in psychodermatology?

Dr. Claudia Aguirre: I was initially researching skin sensitivity while working on launching a line of professional skin products when I uncovered the new research of the skin’s neuroimmunology.

P: We’ve heard about psychodermatology or the brain-skin connection for a while now. Can you

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provide an overview on how this connection was first discovered?

A: Believe it or not, the connection Click here between our digestive health, our to view the emotions and, ultimately, skin video! health was described back in 1930, by dermatologists John H. Stokes and Donald M. Pillsbury.

While the idea of prescribing probiotics to patients suffering from acne seems ahead of its time, somehow, this knowledge was buried for many years.

It’s only been in the past decade or so that scientists have uncovered the mechanisms behind the brain-skin connection.

For instance, beginning in the late 90s, researchers examined the effects of stress on atopic dermatitis and other inflammatory skin conditions. Then, the field moved into the neuroscience of the neuro-immuno-endocrine system of the skin as it responds to stress. Today, the research is ongoing and has uncovered much about the independent stress axis of

the skin, and its intimate connection to the brain and external environment.

P: Based on what we now know from science, what exactly happens to the skin when one is depressed or stressed?

A: In a nutshell, psychological stress releases hormones and neuropeptides into the bloodstream, where they target organs such as the skin. These signals tell the skin that the body may

“Sometimes the skin shows signs of stress before we are fully aware of the situation, which is why it’s important to 'listen' to our skin as it may be telling us there is something

P: In terms of key ingredients, which ones are proven to help promote cell renewal?

A: Retinol, hydroxy acids and polyhydroxy acids are among the key ingredients known to help regenerate new skin cells.

P: In the spa world, how critical is the mind-body discovery to our understanding of proper skin care?

A: I believe it’s crucial. We live in a stressed, fast-paced world and many skin conditions may only be treated superficially, yielding relatively slow results. If the mind’s health is also addressed, it will expedite skin health. This is why stressrelieving techniques play a great part in the overall skin-care treatment. It also helps skin-care therapists understand that their very treatments and products may set off a reaction if the skin is hyper-responsive, or help them treat the underlying inflammation before addressing the secondary symptoms, such as breakouts. n

we need to deal with emotionally.”

PERSONAL SIDE NOTES If I wasn’t a neuroscientist today, I would be: A marine biologist.

If given a super power, I would: Time-travel.

The one app I’m hooked on is: The app store!

Kidding aside, it’s probably Instagram.

be under duress and inflammation increases, hence, the flare-up of red, itchy patches on the skin. This type of inflammation is called neurogenic inflammation. Sometimes the skin shows signs of stress before we are fully aware of the situation, which is why it’s important to “listen” to our skin as it may be telling us there is something we need to deal with emotionally.

P: Aside from brain-skin connection, what other trends are you seeing in the field of skin care?

A: The general move into a wellness-centered, and scientifically-backed, space for optimizing health is one of the top trends I am seeing today. This is an exciting time for the spa industry.

When I need a good read, I go for: Any classic literature.

The best life lesson I’ve received was: We’re not here for a long time; we’re here for a good time.

WANT TO ACCESS online a list of research on brain-skin connection?

Click here.

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What’s In, What’s Out

BY MAE MAÑACAPJOHNSON

What’s hot in the beauty world? We’ve seen the slow death of makeup contouring and the rise of strobing, which many said was

made popular by Victoria Secret model Gigi Hadid. The brows have also evolved, from skinny to full. Bangs have re-emerged as a popular hair style, thanks in part to style icons like Taylor Swift and Kate Middleton who have both been spotted sporting the ‘do.

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Hair Trends “Bangs is back in a big way,” says The Spa at the Hotel Hershey Spa Director Shian Wing. “Every version imaginable, from short bangs to cheek-bone grazing and face-framing styles.”

When it comes to hair texture, Wing says there’s a lot of request for soft layers and short choppy cuts. Popular hair colors, on the other hand, range from icy blond tones to shades of red that are updated with copper highlights and deep one-color tones.

Natalie Soto-Carlisle, global educator for jane iredale, has seen a similar trend, stating that soft, effortless hair styles are trendy this season. “We’re also seeing tresses going into

lighter shades. For the brave, vibrant jewel tones have replaced the pastel hair tones,” she says.

Makeup and Nail Trends When it comes to makeup, Soto-Carlisle says makeup trends evolve along with the ever-changing seasons. “As we enter the summer months, the trends are moving away from matte lips and skin. Instead, the complexion should look and feel light with a satin finish. Lips are glossy. Lashes are the focal point, with lash extensions being all the rage,” she says. She advises keeping eyeshadow simple using a cream shadow.

To define the lashes, Soto-Carlisle suggests smudging eyeliner into the lash line to create the illusion of fuller lashes.

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The warm weather also means trading heavy moisturizers with lighter versions and treating the skin to a microdermabrasion treatment to slough off dead cells.

Wing, on her part, predicts the end of the “no makeup” look. “Trending now are bright red lips, bold full lashes and pops of color for the eyes,” she says.

As for nail trends, she has seen a demand for bright seasonal colors and natural nail care. Soto-Carlisle agrees that bright nail colors are all the rage now, adding that simple French manicures are a thing of the past. “Nails have really become an accessory to a woman’s everyday wardrobe,” she says. “Metallic tones are a must-have for the season.”

Skin-Care Trends In skin care, Éminence Organic Skin Care CEO Boldijarre Koronczay has seen an increase in consumer demand for products that help repair and heal skin damaged by environmental stressors. “People are more and more aware of the necessity of sunscreen and the importance of after-care. Not only should you be wearing sunscreen, but you should help your skin heal and rehydrate after exposure to the elements,” he says.

“As we enter the summer months, the trends are moving away from matte lips and skin.

Instead, the complexion should look and feel light with a satin finish. Lips are glossy. Lashes are the focal point, with lash extensions being all the rage.”

— NATALIE SOTO-CARLISLE, jane iredale

jane iredale launches The Good Glow summer collection, with includes redesigned bronzers and the brandnew Flirt LipDrink SPF 15 lip balm.

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Shankara VP of Sales & Marketing Gina Preziosa says women who are aging are more concerned about their skin now and are aware that damage from the sun, lack of sleep and poor lifestyle will eventually show on their skin. In general, Preziosa says women between 20 to 40 years old are a growing demographic for skin-care retailers. “These women now realize that they need to start earlier in taking care of their skin than their mothers did!” she says.

Barbara Close, founder and CEO of Naturopathica, says there is an influx of savvy consumers who are embracing the from-the-inside-out approach to wellness, understanding that skin

Éminence Organic Skin Care’s new Repair & Protect Collection helps combat environmental stressors, including pollution and harmful UV rays.

health starts with what one puts into the body. “Choosing anti-inflammatory foods and fortifying your diet with antioxidants and omegas that repair and protect your skin helps with every skin concern, from fine lines and wrinkles to acne and rosacea,” Close says. “We’re also seeing ingestibles enter the market that are specifically formulated to improve skin health and appearance.”

“People are more and more aware of the necessity of sunscreen and the importance of after-care. Not only should you be wearing sunscreen, but you should help your skin heal and rehydrate after exposure to the elements.”

— BOLDIJARRE KORONCZAY, Éminence Organic Skin Care

In response to the “food for skin” trend, Naturopathica launched Burdock Radiant Skin Tincture which features burdock, an antioxidant-rich herb with cleansing and purifying properties and Oregon grape root, a key herb for eczema, psoriasis and rosacea.

Seeing Results Ultimately, a consumer trend that has yet to go away is women’s need to see results. “Convenient and results-driven skin-care solutions are of top priority among busy women everywhere,” Wing says.

She thinks that this is the reason why both the spa’s highly popular signature line of Sothys Facials and chocolateinspired line of cocoa-infused body treatments are popular among its guests. The body treatment uses the spa’s new signature line of proprietary products created by Tara Spa Therapy exclusively for the spa. Older women (ages 50 to 60) are the ones in particular that highly demand to see visible results from their anti-aging skin-care products.

As for Naturopathica, its most popular spa treatment is the Signature Bio-Energy Lift, a multi-step treatment that uses microdermabrasion technology. “This treatment is attracting loyal following because it combines effective yet gentle technology with high-performance ingredients,” Close says.

She adds that as far as the target market is concerned, there is a rapid demographic shift to include younger millennials who are quality-driven, have done their homework and are willing to invest in holistic experiences.

“As wellness becomes more mainstream, savvy consumers have become skeptical of ‘hope in a jar’ marketing claims and frivolous treatments. They are looking for ways to feel better every day and address chronic conditions, from back pain to eczema and rosacea.”

Naturopathica blends plant science with technology to inspire guests to embrace beauty rituals.

— BARBARA CLOSE, Naturopathica

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“Women between 20 to 40 years old are a growing demographic.

These women now realize that they need to start earlier in taking care of their skin than their mothers did!”

Shankara’s Rich Repair Moisturizing Mask helps hydrate dry and wrinkled skin.

— GINA PREZIOSA, Shankara

Social Media as Trend Driver Social media is one of the reasons why a number of millennials have grown to become more beauty conscious. “Social media is a big influencer on all current beauty trends, from pastel-colored hair to the latest contouring craze. These have been techniques makeup artists have used on sets for years, but with social media and different apps as well as online tutorials, these are now looks consumers want. Celebrity endorsements have also now reached a broader audience with social media,” Soto-Carlisle says.

According to Wing, the global mass sharing of ideas, new products and techniques through social media and the Internet has driven the latest beauty trends to a whole new level. “Celebrities and fashion designers are no longer the only source of inspiration. Bloggers and ‘everyday people’

Key Ingredients Consumers Want

are promoting ‘street style’ fashions on a daily basis,” she says.

Close says social media has played a major role in the mainstream growth of wellness as a way of life. “Thanks to online influencers who have documented the many ways in which wellness can be accessible and embraced, from healthy eating to positive body image, consumers are increasingly savvy about their wellness experiences.”

She adds that the readily accessible information has also made consumers well-educated on identifying truthful marketing claims. “As wellness becomes more mainstream, savvy consumers have become skeptical of ‘hope in a jar’ marketing claims and frivolous treatments. They are looking for ways to feel better every day and address chronic conditions, from back pain to eczema and rosacea.”

Clean cosmeceuticals “Guests are looking for clean cosmeceuticals: active ingredients that stimulate visible results and are known to be safe and non-irritating for the skin. We select clean cosmeceuticals including peptides, plant stem cells, Glycolic Acid and antioxidants,” Close says.

Organic and natural “Guests want natural, organic and Biodynamic ingredients. Lemongrass is a fresh, healing ingredient that has started to make a big appearance in natural skin care,” says Boldijarre.

Soto-Carlisle has seen guests refer to apps that rate brands in order of toxicity, or lists of ingredients they have been told to avoid such as talc, petroleum and parabens. “They are also looking for skincare-infused items that will give them a beautiful finish but also benefit their skin in the long run, such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin C,” she says.

Pure essential ingredients “Guests want the purest forms of essential ingredients, for example fruit enzymes, key vitamins, and active ingredients that provide the most effective results in the shortest amount of time,” says Wing.

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After-Treatment Tips Because a guests’ beauty experience shouldn’t end after a treatment wraps up in a spa, spas are constantly looking at ways to encourage guests to develop a beauty routine at home. To help market its after-treatment products, The Hotel Hershey hosts a monthly educational event for its guests in order to provide them a deeper level of understanding and a personalized connection to its brands.

“Each month a different brand partner will present, always with exceptional results, and a strong buy-in and commitment from our guests. Our team of technicians is also highly educated by our brand partners to provide the very best service, experience, and home-care advice and recommendations, for each and every guest,” Wing says.

At Naturopathica Chelsea in New York, guests are encouraged to take charge of their health by combining deeply therapeutic experiences with the tools and education to continue their healing journey at-home.

Naturopathica’s educational approach starts with helping guests identify the root cause of a concern, and then extends toward recommending products and rituals that can help address skin-care or health issues. “Since our therapists and estheticians value their role in the client’s healing process, product recommendations come naturally with the support of our Well-Being Ritual Cards, which are shared with clients post-treatment depending on their needs,” Close says.

This link-sell with education makes retail both an integral and necessary part of the treatment experience. “Our hope is that clients will learn how easily well-being rituals can be integrated into their lives,” she says. n

“Convenient and resultsdriven skin-care solutions are of top priority among busy women everywhere.”

— SHIAN WING, The Spa at The Hotel Hershey

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey upgraded its Chocolate, Cuban and Noche Azul collections, body treatments and retail products with a new all-natural signature product line, developed in partnership with TARA Spa Therapy.

WANT TO KNOW what qualities to look for in a skin-care resource partner? Click here to read more.

F E AT U R E D S O U R C E S

BOLDIJARRE KORONCZAY President and Master Esthetician Éminence Organic Skin Care

SHIAN WING Spa Director The Spa At The Hotel Hershey HERSHEY, PENNSYLVANIA

NATALIE SOTO-CARLISLE Global Educator jane iredale

BARBARA CLOSE

GINA PREZIOSA

Founder & CEO Naturopathica

VP of Sales & Marketing Shankara

NEW YORK, NEW YORK

UVALDE, TEXAS

GREAT BARRINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA CANADA

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SEE + BE SEEN AT THE WEST COAST ISPA MEDIA EVENT, MEMBERS SHOWCASED THEIR LATEST INNOVATIONS TO MEDIA ATTENDEES. 1

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1. Attendees received a Mind in Motion gift bag from ISPA filled with sponsor gifts.

2. Aspira the Spa brought deep relaxation and peace through their massage, The Grandfathers, which pays homage to the stones that were gathered and used in ceremony by native healers. General Manager Lola Roeh interviewed with Richard Carroll, writer for LA Travel Magazine.

3. Atlantis Casino Resort Spa aided individuals in feeling renewed, relaxed and rejuvenated with a Pantai Revitalizing Foot Ritual that included an invigorating salt scrub and foot massage. The Atlantis team posed for a group picture before the start of the event.

4. Massage Envy delivered an Exfoliating Hand Treatment utilizing a sugar scrub and a hand and forearm massage with body butter.

5. Bellus Academy showcased the elite service of applying one lash at a time with NovaLash Eye Lash Extensions and Eyebrow Contouring from Anastasia.

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1. The Oaks at Ojai offered a takeaway bag of The Oaks’ new gluten-free granola as part of their initiative to teach consumers how to balance stress, food cravings and attainable fitness.

5. Island Spa Catalina displayed their Citrus with a Twist Body Scrub featuring macadamia oil, lime blossom and fine sugar crystals that leave the skin feeling revitalized and hydrated.

2. Two mini treatment sponsors provided opportunities to experience sound therapy from Eastern Vibration and a hydrating eye treatment from Epicuren Discovery.

6. Media were able to pre-book treatments with the companies through the appointment scheduling software, ResortSuite. CEO Frank Pitsikalis promotes Global Wellness Day with Raad Ghantous, host of The Raad Life.

3. Jurlique provided a Revitalizing Hand Care Ritual, followed by a targeted nail and cuticle oil treatment to nourish and condition dry nails and cuticles.

4. The Meadowood Spa offered a Foot Scrub and Aromatherapy Experience with luxury vegan and organic products.

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7. Kohler Waters Spa helped individuals experience the healing properties of the Highland waters through its All Things Scotland Body Treatment. Spa Director Garrett Mersberger participates in a live interview with Candy Holladay, Host of Spa Brunch.

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MAN MAN TO

BY MAE MAÑACAPJOHNSON

Meeting the Demands of Male Spa-Goers

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pas have long tried to demystify the male spa-goers. What are their demands? How can they be drawn into the spa more regularly? What treatments do they prefer?

From a business standpoint, there is a good reason why spas and resource partners should pay closer attention to this demographic: Men are a growing market for the spa industry. In fact, data from the ISPA Foundation Consumer Snapshot – Volume IV: Male Consumer Insights indicates that 47 percent of spagoers in the U.S. are male. At a closer look, the average male spa-goers are between the ages of 25 to 44, likely to work in a manager level and have household earnings of more than US$50,000.

Given these numbers, the idea that men do not enjoy going to a spa is clearly nothing more than a myth. “Male guests really like to go to a spa and take time for themselves.

Sometimes it’s just a little difficult getting them to actually do it. However, once they are here, they often don’t want to leave,” says Zach Thomas, spa director at Island Spa Catalina.

Island Spa Catalina's Relaxation Deck is one of its male guests' favorite spots to unwind.

The Truth About Men The whole notion that men are less aware when it comes to health and wellness is completely unfounded. In fact, Noella Gabriel, managing director at Elemis, says the modern male spa-goer now understands how stress, pollution and increased lifestyle demands can directly affect their skin. “The availability of better shaving foams and gels and an increase in the use of daily moisturizers are two key factors that have contributed

to men’s understanding of the importance of daily skin-care regimen,” she says.

Gabriel adds that men now make more time for both spa treatments and skin-care products designed specifically for them, such as the Elemis Skin IQ facial. They are also willing to be educated when purchasing their specific home-care products.

“Men are keen to experience treatments and are comfortable booking their

own facials without feeling awkward in a comfortable environment. This is due to spa design becoming more homely, nonintimidating and moving away from the sterile clinical appearance. We have to remember men are very loyal customers and tend to stay with a brand when it works for them,” she says.

Organic Male OM4 CEO Michael Bruggeman says there is also no truth to old beliefs that male spa guests do not purchase retail products. “They do if they

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are not scared off,” Bruggeman says.

“Curation is key when it comes to men.

He advises creating a discrete section of men’s items in the spa retail area to draw them in. “Once you capture his attention, he will be less concerned about price and more open to finding lifestyle-compatible retail items. Pick and choose wisely by getting intimate with your male customers. Understand your location’s unique male demographic and look closely at every aspect of his lifestyle,” he says.

Bruggeman also stresses the need to ensure that merchandising is substantive and the navigation process is simple

Key Ingredients That Work Best on the Male Skin Bruggeman offers the following tips when finding the right skin-care products to carry in your retail area.

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Top left: Spa at Ballantyne Resort offers male guests male-specific massage treatments. Above: Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club offers its guests and members top-class amenities to help convert male guests into loyal patrons.

enough for them. “He may actually sneak a peek while rummaging the racks. While locker room introductions to product are statistically more effective,

once experienced at the sink, he will be back to examine your grooming selection more intently,” he says.

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 38)

ook for functional emulsifiers with advanced delivery capability to penetrate male skin, up to 30 percent thicker. Men also have smaller constricted sebaceous glands that pump out 20 percent additional oil due to testosterone. This trifecta of factors creates a unique problem.

Men are absorption-challenged. Small molecule delivery such as those in serumbased products is important.

Men’s skin type is often a combination of oily T-zone and dehydrated in other areas due to poor cleansing and the very nature of the shaving ritual.

Hyaluronic acid is a key ingredient to look for in a product.

Get rid of shaving foams. Ispropane, butane and alcohol do not hydrate the skin. Post-shaving calming ingredients such as kelp, chamomile and caper bud extract are a must. Rosehip oil suspended in a tonic or aftershave splash filled with calming botanicals is especially effective.

Ingredients which slow down oil production and refine pores such as high Alpine willow herb and mastic treat resin are important.

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MAN TO MAN (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 36)

What Men Want When it comes to what men want, Spa at Ballantyne Resort Director of Ancillary Operations Woody Allen has seen a rise in the demand for pedicures among male guests. “It’s a common myth that men do not take care of their feet and hands, but that’s not true. Pedicures are popular among our male guests,” he says. “For our manicure and pedicure treatments, we feature a masculine scent by Zents, Ore, as well as UnZented, which has a natural scent.”

The spa also offers treatments designed for men like Arnica Sports Massage, Deep-Tissue Massage, Distinguished Male Facial and Gentleman’s Manicure & Pedicure. “All our guests enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne, access to our steam room and Elemis offers a full line of male-specific products.

sauna, whirlpool, indoor pool, resistance pools, outdoor pool, spa boutique, fitness center and full-service salon. Additional resort-style amenities include golf, Dana Rader Golf School and fine dining at Gallery Restaurant,” Allen says.

Pre- and post-treatment, male guests unwind at the Men’s Relaxation Lounge.

“In the Men’s Relaxation Lounge and locker area, guests may use our organic male face wash, shaving emulsion, serum, moisturizer and toner so they get to experience the products even before their actual facial treatments,” he says.

Man Cave The male spa guests tend to enjoy the amenities in the spa in the same way they enjoy the conveniences in their own man cave, which is why many spas offer over-

the-top facilities to turn male guests into loyal patrons. For instance, at Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club, the men’s locker room comes equipped with a full bar and all-day access to the menu of their Top Tier Restaurant where guests can order from any of the creations by the club’s Executive Chef Robert Meitzer.

“The luxurious lounge area is a man cave on steroids with over-stuffed leather chairs and sofas facing five TV screens showing different sport channels. Sturdy French doors open out onto the putting green where members often settle bets after a round of golf,” says Spa Fitness & Tennis Director Kitty Flewelling.

Mountain Golf & Lake Club Spa caters to about 40 percent male guests. They treat male guests to a complimentary snack bar with fresh fruit, nut mixes and gourmet chocolate, plus a movie theater popcorn cart. “We equip the men’s vanity area with every product a man could possibly want—from Gold Bond powder to three varieties of shaving cream—to make it feel like home,” says Flewelling.

“Gentlemen often enjoy the hot tub, cold plunge, steam and sauna before or after their spa treatments and workouts.”

At Island Spa Catalina, emphasis is on making the male guests feel comfortable while browsing through the treatment menu, which is why the spa decided to include a page dedicated to “Just for Him” services. “We also carry Organic Male OM4,” says Thomas. “The male skin is different. Men usually have a different skin concern which is why it is so great to be able to offer more customizable services for them,” he says.

Male-Specific Products When looking for male-specific products for your spa’s retail area, pay attention to scents. “We look for products that are

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created exclusively for men containing masculine scents, as opposed to sweet or floral,” says Allen. “Key ingredients include eucalyptus, sage, sandalwood, lavender and tea tree. Men’s skin tends to be oily, and these ingredients are all good for balancing the skin.”

Thomas agrees, further adding that packaging is also important if one wants to grab a man’s attention. “Scent and packaging are both important to a male guest. Scent needs to be clean and crisp.

Packaging has to be eye-catching on the shelf to make them want to pick it up,” he says.

Gabriel, on the other hand, recommends looking for a comprehensive offering of cleansing, shaving and moisturizing products. “Men’s skin varies and many men experience sensitivity during and after shaving, so select products that are formulated to protect, calm and increase hydration. A product range should include good supporting clinical and user-trial results, with great spa marketing support so it can be advertised to clients,” she says.

Flewelling says it’s important to pay attention to ingredients as well. “The most important ingredient for our male guest is a good physical sun block. Our men are super active outdoors, from

Organic Male OM4 exclusively targets the male skin, formulating products that can effectively penetrate the absorption-challenged male skin.

golf, hiking and tennis to boating at our Lake Club,” she says. “We love Image Skincare Prevention + SPF 50 and Epicurean Discovery Extreme Cream created originally for soldiers deployed to desert conditions, which contains propholis and anti-bacterial. SkinCeuticals Vitamin C serum remains the best on the market.”

Bruggeman also suggests selecting product lines and companies whose core business is men. “Companies with this

type of focus can offer value-added consultative services in menu and treatment design which appeal to the male consumer. Language is imperative.

Ingredients make a difference,” he says.

Finally, when marketing to them, talk to men using their language: Use masculine words, be brief, direct and, when appropriate, use humor. When you talk to them man-to-man, they’ll likely return to your spa because they felt the personal connection. n

WANT TO GET MORE TIPS to effectively market and promote your spa services or products to the male spa guest? Click here to read more.

F E AT U R E D S O U R C E S

NOELLA GABRIEL

ZACH THOMAS

KITTY FLEWELLING

Managing Director Elemis

Spa Director Island Spa Catalina

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

AVALON, CALIFORNIA

Spa Fitness & Tennis Director Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club

MICHAEL BRUGGEMAN

WOODY ALLEN

CEO Organic Male OM4

Director of Ancillary Operations Spa at Ballantyne Resort

SILVERTHONRE, COLORADO

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

CASHIERS, NORTH CAROLINA

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SunSmart

BY MAE MAÑACAPJOHNSON

Educating Guests on Sun Protection

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ased on statistics compiled by the Skin Cancer Foundation, 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. The danger is real. But while many may have heard about harmful effects of sun exposure, much is still to be done to ensure that the general public is aware of the health risks involved.

“The American Cancer Society cites that nearly 5.4 million basal and squamous cell skin cancers are diagnosed each year. This means that despite the enormous amount of information available to consumers, there is still a great deal to be done to educate people on the risks of exposure to UV damage,” says Sanitas Skincare owner and CEO Lisa Crary.

Children learn sun safety at a colorescience sun awareness campaign.

The Dangers of Skin Cancer Annette Sandford-Lopez, director of health club and spa at The Spa at Belmond Charleston Place located in Charleston, South Carolina, is a long-time advocate of sun protection awareness. “Over the past three decades, more people have had skin cancer than all other cancers combined. One person dies of melanoma every hour! An estimated 74,000 new cases

of invasive melanoma will be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2016,” says Sandford-Lopez, citing statistics from the American Cancer Society.

Nikki Peters, global marketing director of Exuviance Skin Lab, says there are clear pieces of research that point to sun exposure as the primary cause of skin cancer. “The impact of unprotected UV exposure on later development of melanoma August 2016

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and other skin cancers is well-established,” she says.

Therefore, raising awareness on sun protection is vital in the fight against skin cancer. “We believe it is crucial to educate the public about proper sun protection because skin cancer is one of the only preventable cancers, yet it is also one of the most prominent,” says colorescience PR/Brand and Field Marketing Manager Alyssa Schott.

A guest at The Spa at Belmond Charleston Place surfs outdoors wearing the spa's "I Will Reflect" bracelet, which are sold at the spa as part of its campaign to help raise funds for skin cancer research.

“I created the ‘I Will Reflect’—a Melanoma Awareness and Prevention initiative—to educate the Charleston community about the importance of sun safety, skin protection and the significant dangers of melanoma.”

— ANNETTE SANDFORD-LOPEZ, The Spa at Belmond Charleston Place

of skin cancer with simple and regular use!” says COOLA Suncare VP of Sales Melissa Mao. Livia Reddington, director of spa at Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui, says it’s important to make it a habit to perform a head-to-toe and monthly self-exam of one’s skin as well as schedule an annual appointment with a dermatologist for the early detection of skin cancer.

“Skin health is a lifestyle choice, both inside and out.

Effective sun protection goes beyond the initial application of broad-spectrum sunscreen. Taking a holistic approach is the key to keeping skin healthy,” she says.

COOLA Suncare offers a compact collection of products that protect the skin from harmful UV rays.

There are numerous reasons why proper sun protection should be part of everyone’s daily regimen. “Environmentally speaking, our ozone layer is depleting and as such, our bodies are at greater risk from harmful rays. Skin cancer is on the rise, and sunscreen has been proven to decrease the development

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Skin Aging Aside from the risk of developing skin cancer, exposure to the sun’s UV rays is also the main culprit for skin aging. “The sun is our skin’s worst enemy when it comes to skin damage and premature skin aging, which is why sun protection is so important. Up to 90 percent of visible changes commonly attributed to aging are caused by UV radiation from the sun,” says Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Director of Sales for Pro and ECommerce Sue Thomas.

“Aesthetically speaking, the use of sunscreens helps to prevent and reduce the appearance of facial brown spots, skin discoloration, facial red veins and blotchiness. It also slows

Osmosis Pur Medical Skincare is formulated without artificial chemical ingredients that are known to increase skin inflammation.

the development of wrinkled, prematurely aging skin—so the question is, why wouldn’t anyone use proper sun protection?” says Mao. But not all sunscreens are made the same. Osmosis Pür Medical Skincare CEO Dr. Ben Johnson advises his clients to avoid artificial sunscreen as it could lead to skin aging. “The biggest myth is that artificial sunscreens are not harmful.

Research proves that is not true. The truth is these chemicals become a source of aging and damage,” he says. “My formulations avoid artificial chemical sunscreens because they are known to double inflammation in the skin. Zinc, titanium and scalar waves are the preferred ways to provide full-spectrum protection.”

Many female consumers skip sunscreen because they do not like the smell or find the product heavy or tacky on the skin. However, Peters says to prevent signs of aging, sunscreen must be worn 365 days a year—no excuses! “This is why cosmetic elegance was central to our development of the SPF 50. It has no odor, it’s quite sheer and leaves no white residue,” she says.

Reddington says it’s a misconception among consumers to believe

that sunscreens should feel greasy. “The reality is that sun care should feel as great as it protects,” she says, adding that Kerstin Florian Sun Care Collection, a product line the spa carries, has lightweight formulation.

Wearing Sunscreen But convincing guests to wear their sunscreen is often not easy. “The most challenging part about educating people on sun protection is two-fold. First is to wear their sun protection daily. The best sunscreen you can buy is one that you want to put on every day.

Second would be the message of reapplication. Most guests likely don’t know they should be reapplying sunscreen this frequently, let alone actually doing it,” Scott says.

Rather than fight the uphill battle of convincing guests to wear sunscreen daily, COOLA Suncare is taking a different approach. “We began incorporating sun protection into innovative and multipurpose products that clients and guests could use year-round. We have created multi-functional products that incorporate SPF so clients are able to apply sun protection with their everyday routine—whether it be through a

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare offers broad-spectrum defense against the sun.

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“Over the past three decades, more people have had skin cancer than all other cancers combined. One person dies of melanoma every hour! An estimated 74,000 new cases of invasive melanoma will be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2016.”

— LISA CRARY, Sanitas Skincare

L&L Sun Protective Fashion offers handmade parasols for a stylish way to protect oneself from the sun's UV rays.

moisturizer, a primer, a setting spray, BB cream, tinted lip— you name it!” says Mao. “We also create products that utilize both traditional active ingredients (chemical) and physical active ingredients (mineral), so that no matter a person’s preference, there is a healthy option available from COOLA.” The younger guests also have the tendency to ignore sunsmart advice. “Most young people are still interested in getting a [tan] under the sun but don’t realize the damage it is doing. Getting Vitamin D from the sun is one thing, but when you put yourself in the sun to purposely get a darker skin color, you’re not doing your skin any favors,” says Lisa Selwitz, CEO of L&L Sun Protective Fashion.

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Raising Awareness As part of its sun awareness campaign, The Spa at Belmond Charleston Place launched its “I Will Reflect” campaign, which was one of the 2013 ISPA Innovate Award winners.

“I created the ‘I Will Reflect’—a Melanoma Awareness and Prevention initiative—to educate the Charleston community about the importance of sun safety, skin protection and the significant dangers of melanoma,” Sandford-Lopez says.

At the center of the campaign are special bracelets that glow every time the wearer’s Exuviance Skin Lab's sunscreen skin is exposed to harmful is formulated with sheer mineral and green tea extract. sun rays. “All proceeds from the bracelets go to fund basic, translational and clinical research into the cause and treatment of skin cancer and education,” she says.

The spa also offers an “I Will Reflect” Facial treatment, developed in partnership with the Medical University of South Carolina, Dermatology Dept. At the end of the treatment, guests are given sun safety tips and take home a “mole check” card to encourage them to conduct a self-exam at home or schedule an annual skin check by a health-care professional. Ten percent of the cost of the facial treatment is donated to skin cancer research.

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 46)

SUN SMART (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 44)

To help educate consumers on sun safety, COOLA Suncare dedicates a section of its website to Sun Science. “This year, we have made a considerable investment in creating an online education portal to train on the importance of sun protection, and how our brand plays a role in that,” Mao says. In addition, COOLA Suncare works closely with the Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA), the largest private funder of Melanoma Research. “The inspiration behind the founding of COOLA was due to Chris Birchby’s parents, both diagnosed with melanoma. We are very fortunate that they came through their respective diagnoses healthy, and that we can be part of a greater effort to help increase the awareness of melanoma and skin cancer,” Mao says.

Staff Education Providing staff members the right training is an important part of the sun safety campaign. The Sanitas Training Institute, an

on-site educational facility, offers an array of curriculum both in a classroom setting and through distance learning opportunities.

“At Sanitas, we incorporate sun safe practices into a multitude of our classes and also offer targeted curriculums focused on sun damage and prevention. We train industry professionals to have a practical understanding of the sun, its benefits and tools for protecting skin from environmental overexposure,” says Crary.

They also offer hands-on training that focuses on identifying potential skin abnormalities caused by the sun and when to direct guests to seek medical attention.

In the end, it is important to understand that getting some sun has its own benefits, but safety must come first. Reddington says it’s important to find a healthy balance between safe sun exposure, which can help to elevate our mood and provide our bodies with essential Vitamin D, and protecting one’s skin from UV and infrared rays. n

F E AT U R E D S O U R C E S

ANNETTE SANDFORD-LOPEZ Director of Health Club and Spa The Spa at Belmond Charleston Place

LISA CRARY

ALYSSA SCHOTT

SUE THOMAS

NIKKI PETERS

Owner/CEO Sanitas Skincare

PR/Brand and Field Marketing Manager colorescience

Director of Sales for Pro and E-Commerce Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare

Global Marketing Director Exuviance Skin Lab

CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA

NEW YORK, NEW YORK

PRINCETON, NEW JERSEY

LOUISVILLE, COLORADO

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA

MELISSA MAO

LISA SELWITZ

DR. BEN JOHNSON

LIVIA REDDINGTON

Vice President of Sales COOLA Suncare

CEO L&L Sun Protective Fashion

CEO Osmosis Pür Medical Skincare

Director of Spa Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui

NEW YORK, NEW YORK

EVERGREEN, COLORADO

WAILEA, HAWAII

CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA

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Finding the Right Sun-Care Product for Your Retail Area Understand the difference between physical versus chemical sunscreens.

According to Sandford-Lopez, chemical sunscreens have ingredients (i.e. avobenzone) that absorb UV light, turn it into heat and prevent it from passing into the skin. Physical sunscreens contain ingredients (i.e. zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) that create a layer on the skin that reflect UV light away. “Ideally, sell or use a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB to get protection against both UVA (cancer-causing and premature aging) and UVB (sunburn-causing) rays,” she says.

Pay attention to ingredients.

According to Crary, a good sunblock should be judged just as much on what it doesn’t contain as what it does. “A quality sun protection product should feature zinc oxide as a key ingredient because it is the safest, natural protection against UV rays,” she says.

Dr. Johnson says, while zinc and titanium provide full-spectrum coverage, they are not waterresistant. “Scalar waves are a new technology that provides sun protection and do not wash off,” he says.

Reddington recommends sun-care products containing aloe vera, noni and arnica Montana flower extract which help to cool and restore damaged skin to its healthy, balanced state. Mao also suggests plant-based ingredients, such as plankton, red algae, and red raspberry seed oil, which have innate sun protection qualities and help boost sunscreen’s SPF value, naturally.

Avoid harmful ingredients.

“We believe that the most important things to keep away from are no-no ingredients, such as oxybenzone, parabens, paba, petroleum and phthalates,” says Mao. Schott also advises staying away from talc and dyes but look for good-for-you ingredients like antioxidants, vitamin E and peptides. “This is especially important post-treatment when the skin is at its most sensitive and vulnerable,” she says.

Choose multi-tasking products.

“Look for multi-tasking sunscreen products that offer treatment benefits, such as those with Vitamin C and melatonin. Melatonin prevents dark discolored spots (melasma, sun spots) by reducing levels of the enzymes that cause these spots (tyrosinase, MSH),” says Thomas.

Carry a good mix.

“One-size certainly does not fit all when it comes to sun care! We develop more than 30 formulas because there are a variety of skin types, skin tones, and needs,” says Mao. Thus, make sure to have a good mix. “Having a mix of sun-care options to offer spa guests can be quite appealing,” says Selwitz, whose Asian-inspired parasols are made with UPF 50+ and handmade by villagers in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

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IN THEIR WORDS Get to Know the Expert Speakers Lawrence Biscontini EXPERTISE: Wellness SESSION: Calling All Spas Offering Mindful Movement

In this second part of Pulse’s highlight of this year’s ISPA Second Conference & Expo Professional Development Session o T hree-Pa f speakers, find out how these experts view some of today’s r Series t game-changing innovations and what valuable insights you’ll likely gain from attending their sessions.

1. I define innovation as: Having something solved that other people either don’t realize they

need to or don’t know how to solve or improve in order to become more efficient.

2. In my view, the greatest innovation in today’s time is: The World Wide Web because it is

the reason why the world is now “flat and fast” as it connects us all via applications on devices.

3. Of all the world’s innovators, I most admire: The people who keep “goodness” alive,

preaching the words of Jesus and Buddha through their actions and without needing to use words.

4. In the area I’ll be speaking about at this year’s ISPA Conference, the most disruptive idea I’ve seen so far are: Spas that opt not to offer a set menu of mindfulness programs or

treatments. A spa in Bali gives guests an extensive questionnaire, followed by a phone conversation, and then plans their journey, from start to finish, when they arrive. The guest trusts that the spa has created a seamless journey just for him or her, with no conscious decisions made about electing one class or treatment over another.

5.

In the health and wellness space, the most inventive product I’ve come across with: is Caudalié. I discovered this brand during a walk with Biskit, my Italian greyhound, in Paris when we ran inside a pharmacy for refuge from an afternoon rain. While exchanging a friendly chat with the pharmacist, she recommended the skin-care line. While I’m a fan of several skincare lines, I’ve now added this to my list with fervor.

6. If I can invent one thing, I would invent a: Way to bring clean water and enough food for

basic sustenance for each individual on the planet.

7. The one piece of advice I’d give to help foster a culture of innovation is: Focus on three

quotes as a daily mantra to welcome change. First, when I change the way I see things, the things I see will change. Second, I can’t conceive what I’m capable of until I learn how to get out of my own way. Third, if I want what I’ve never had, I have to do something I’ve never done, and that must make me uncomfortable.

8. The app I am hooked on is: Voxer Walkie Talkie. I will only consult with companies and

mentor individuals who agree to add this free app.

TO READ THE FIRST PART of this series, read the July issue in the Pulse archives of experienceispa.com.

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9. If I can only keep one book to read, I’d pick: The Bible because it contains all books, 10. The single most important takeaway attendees can gain from attending my session is:

A list of 10 takeaways and tips for attracting press, generating untapped sources of revenue, and making your mindful team the best in the business.

Boldijarre Koronczay EXPERTISE: Business Strategy SESSION: Three Ways to Use Happiness to Grow Your Business

1. I define innovation as: The essence of business. Without innovation, there is no growth in

any industry.

2. In my view, the greatest innovation in today’s time is: The “return to the origins” way of

eating healthy, organic food grown in traditional farming methods, and using these same ingredients in your skin-care products, can help heal the body inside and out and enhance your well-being naturally.

3. Of all the world’s innovators, I most admire: Jim Carrey. With his over-the-top characters of

himself, he created a cult following. He has been able to reinvent, or “innovate,” himself over and over again through his diverse, hilarious roles.

4. In the area I’ll be speaking about at this year’s ISPA Conference, the most disruptive idea I’ve seen so far is: Putting your face on a shower pouf!

5. In the health and wellness space, the most inventive treatment I’ve come across with is: A Gondola massage in Venice, Italy. I haven’t tried one, but sign me up!

6. If I can invent one thing, I would invent a: Machine that you could just put in a card, type

some numbers and money would magically appear out of it! Oh wait, that’s already invented!

7. The one piece of advice I’d give to help foster a culture of innovation is: Humor!

8. The app I am hooked on is: MemeMaker.

9. If I can only keep one book to read, I’d pick: Winning with One Liners: 3,400 Hilarious Laugh

Lines to Tickle Your Funny Bones and Spice Up Your Speeches by Pat Williams.

10. The single most important takeaway attendees can gain from attending my session is:

A shower pouf with my face on it. Just kidding! But did that make you laugh? Then that’s exactly what you’ll take away from my session—finding humor and happiness in your everyday life, and using that to grow your business. Work is where you spend the majority of your time—you should be laughing and having fun while you’re at it.

Kate Mearns

1. I define innovation as: The ability to toss a product, method, or idea up in the air and then

EXPERTISE: Business Strategy

2. In my view, the greatest innovation in today’s time is: Still being created in someone’s

SESSION: Spa Menu Engineering: Crafting a Unique and Profitable Service Menu

move things around so it lands differently. garage.

3. Of all the world’s innovators, I most admire: Alan Turing. I loved The Imitation Game and

Turing was relentless about his idea despite all the skeptics, critics and haters.

4. In the area I’ll be speaking about at this year’s ISPA Conference, the most disruptive idea I’ve seen so far is: Status quo.

5. In the health and wellness space, the most inventive product I’ve come across with is:

Cloud-based software for back-of-house operations. It is so simple, yet a really valuable tool for managers.

6. If I can invent one thing, I would invent a: Genome to make people value life of all kinds.

7. The one piece of advice I’d give to help foster a culture of innovation is: No idea is a bad

idea—so speak up!

8. The app I am hooked on is: Google Maps.

9. If I can only keep one book to read, I’d pick: Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramhansa

Yogananda.

10. The single most important takeaway attendees can gain from attending my session is:

Engineering with data and strategy yields profitability and results.

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Dre Baldwin EXPERTISE: Social Media SESSION: The Now Era: Livestreams and Immediacy

1. I define innovation as: Bringing something new to the table that gets the job done better or

faster!

2. In my view, the greatest innovation in today’s time is: The opportunity for anyone to build

their own platform and write their own story!

3. Of all the world’s innovators, I most admire: Hip-hop moguls such as Sean Combs, Shawn

Carter, Russell Simmons and Curtis Jackson. Unlike us athletes, they did not win the genetic lottery and had to create 100 percent of their advantages from the ground up.

4. In the area I’ll be speaking about at this year’s ISPA Conference, the most disruptive idea I’ve seen so far is: The fact that every single human being with a smartphone is his or

her own 24/7 news channel.

5. In the health and wellness space, the most inventive idea I’ve come across with is: The

increased mindfulness of our culture when it comes to sleep and proper rest. I am a recovering #TeamNoSleep member and notice the significant improvement in my performance with proper rest.

6. If I can invent one thing, I would invent: A Mental Gym that trains people’s mental games

on a regular basis in the same way we go to gyms to train our abs and biceps.

7. The one piece of advice I’d give to help foster a culture of innovation is: Speak from the

depths of who you are as an individual, not what you think they will like or accept!

8. The apps I am hooked on are: Snapchat and Periscope.

9. If I can only keep one book to read, I’d pick: The Law of Success by Napoleon Hill.

10. The single most important takeaway attendees can gain from attending my session is:

Grab and keep attention—the real currency—and serve as many people as you can. You will be rewarded a hundred times over!

Leon Alexander EXPERTISE: Marketing SESSION: A Window into the Consumer Mind

1. I define innovation as: A result of a process that brings together various novel ideas in a way

that they have an impact on society.

2. In my view, the greatest innovation in today’s time is: DNA. James Watson and Francis

Crick, who discovered DNA in 1953, famously walked into a local pub and exclaimed, “We have found the secret of life.”

3. Of all the world’s innovators, I most admire: Nikola Tesla who obtained around 300 patents

worldwide for his inventions.

4. In the area I’ll be speaking about at this year’s ISPA Conference, the most disruptive idea I’ve seen is: Services designed to bring guests back into the spa on a more regular basis.

Create a juice bar, wine bar or high-end coffee bar that entices consumers.

5. In the health and wellness space, the most inventive treatment I’ve come across with is: Himalayan Rejuvenation Treatment.

6. If I can invent one thing, I would invent a: Solar-powered A/C for cars that will cool your car

while it is parked in the sun. That would be cool!

7. The one piece of advice I’d give to help foster a culture of innovation is: Take the time to

clarify your motivating values and compelling purpose, individually and collectively. Purpose is the value-creating, energy-multiplying life force of innovation.

8. The app I am hooked on is: Apple watch activity.

9. If I can only keep one book to read, I’d pick: In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust.

10. The single most important takeaway attendees can gain from attending my session is: To amend their strategic blueprint and look at their business from the consumers’

perspective.

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n

A Day in the Life!

BY MAE MAÑACAP-JOHNSON

CAROLYN DOE • Spa Director, Umstead Hotel and Spa Cary, North Carolina

or Carolyn Doe, spa director at Umstead Hotel and Spa located in Cary, North Carolina, her passion to learn the ins and outs of spa operations and management has led her to pursue a career in the spa industry.

“I’ve always enjoyed all aspects of the spa industry and the more I learned about the ins and outs, the more I wanted to be part of it,” Doe says. “I think my path to directorship has really helped me, as I’ve had the opportunity to learn different perspectives of the operation, having worked in several areas of the spa as an esthetician, spa sales manager, interim spa operations manager, and now spa director.”

She directly leads three spa managers, but as a whole, works on a daily basis to help lead 56 staff members. “My advice to other spa directors when it comes to building their team is to take their time during the selection process and hire the candidate who will not only fit with the team, but will also add value to the team’s morale and your goals for the spa,” she says.

F

The life of a spa professional is a continuous cycle of daily responsibilities that help make the spa world go round. Pulse asks ISPA members to give us a sneak peek into their daily lives to help us understand the roles they play and the difference they make on a daily basis.

She starts her day early, prepping the spa for opening at 7 am. “I walk through the spa to make sure everything is set up for guests,” she says.

Here’s how she typically spends the rest of her work day: ★ 8 am Reviews the appointment books looking for special notes or surprises. She also checks the projected numbers for the day and compares them to numbers of the previous year. ★ 9 am Conducts staff briefing or manager briefing to review any special notes and hotel information that may

be important for the day. ★ 10 am Walks through the spa, greets guests and checks in with the team to ensure operational success for the day.

Manager walk-throughs happen throughout the day. ★ 2 pm Reviews activity reports on treatment lines and retail product activity. ★ 4 pm Reviews the revenue numbers and takes note whether the spa will be on target for that day’s goal. Doe also prepares her schedule for the next day and assigns any needed tasks to the appropriate associate or manager. ■

Customer service: Doe says, like any other spa or business, meeting guests’ expectations at all times is difficult. “Being in the moment during guest interactions and looking for opportunities to ‘wow’ the guest and create a memorable experience can be challenging,” she says. “But hearing our guests’ feedback on their wonderful experiences and then seeing them return is most rewarding.”

Retail and menu: Doe pays close attention to finding retail items guests can’t live without and creating exciting and effective new treatments to add on the menu. She makes it a point to challenge her team to stay knowledgeable about products and understand how each product may work well together for additional benefits so they could recommend the right selections to guests.

Spa Trends: When it comes to trends in the spa industry, Doe says she continues to see a growth in partnerships with other integrative health services. “For example, I see an active trend in acupuncturists and reiki therapists partnering with spas to provide value-added services to existing relaxing or therapeutic massages,” she says.

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2016 ISPA CONFERENCE & EXPO SEPTEMBER 13-15 • THE VENETIAN, LAS VEGAS, NEVADA

It’s Not Too Late to Book Your Room at the Host Hotel!

LAST CHANCE TO GET A DISCOUNTED ROOM RATE

M

ark your calendar—Friday, August 12 is the last day to reserve a room in the ISPA room block to receive the best rate. The Venetian and The Palazzo are home to this year’s ISPA Conference & Expo. Both offer easy access to all Conference happenings and highlight events. Visit attendISPA.com to take advantage of the discounted room rate.

Use the ISPA Conference Mobile App to Plan Your ISPA Conference Experience

CALLING ALL EXHIBITORS August 22 is the LAST day for ISPA Conference & Expo exhibitors to place their orders with GES to receive special pricing. Visit attendISPA.com and click on the “Expo” tab to find the 2016 Exhibitor Kit where you can place your GES orders.

Support the ISPA Foundation Auctions Bid Early on Biddingforgood.com

S

T

o maximize your time at the ISPA Conference & Expo, be sure to take advantage of the ISPA Conference Mobile App, a free tool that allows you to have easy access to all-thingsConference. Utilize the app to build a personal schedule, connect with fellow attendees, view and search exhibitors and speakers, join the social conversation and so much more! Apple users can visit the App store and Android users can visit the Google Play store and search “ISPA Conference” to download the app.

DEADLINE FOR AUCTION CATALOG INCLUSION:

AUG. 10

upport the many initiatives of the ISPA Foundation by participating in the ISPA Foundation Live & Silent Auctions this year.

Don’t forget to donate before August 10 to have your item included in the printed Auction Catalog. Online bidding opens August 15, where both the ISPA and biddingforgood.com communities are able and encouraged to browse and bid. To view the items graciously donated by ISPA members and supporters, visit attendISPA.com. Online bidding will close on September 9 and the highest bids will carry over to on-site bidding at the ISPA Conference & Expo.

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General Sessions Feature Top-Caliber Speakers:

Brené Brown, John Ondrasik and Simon Sinek

MANY THANKS TO OUR

#AWESOME SPONSORS! Without the generous support of our sponsors, it’s hard to imagine being able to put together one big awesome event like the ISPA Conference & Expo. So here’s a huge shout-out to this year’s sponsors: Thank you!

THANK YOU!

Platinum Elemis

Nelly De Vuyst

HydroPeptide Matrix Fitness

ResortSuite Technogym

Gold Need a good reason to attend this year’s ISPA Conference & Expo? Here are three: 1. Brené Brown, John Ondrasik and Simon Sinek.

These top-caliber speakers will surely re-energize your creative passion to innovate.

Author of three top New York Times Best-sellers including Rising Strong, Daring Greatly and The Gifts of Imperfection, Brown has risen to the top as an innovator in catapulting individuals and organizations ready for braver living, loving and leading.

2. Singer-songwriter Ondrasik, known by his stage name Five for Fighting, exploded onto the music scene with the release of “Superman” in 2000. He will also accept the ISPA Alex Szekely Humanitarian Award for his many philanthropic work.

3. The man behind the phenomenal, Start with Why and Leaders Eat Last, Sinek has inspired many leaders to find the purpose in what they do.

DID YOU MISS our interview with Brown in the July issue of Pulse?

Visit pulse.experienceispa.com to read the past issue. Plus, keep an eye out on our interviews with Ondrasik and Simon in the September Conference edition!

Aveda BABOR COOLA Suncare Decléor USA Inc Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Image Skincare jane iredale

Jurlique Kerstin Florian International Luzern Laboratories Sanitas Skincare SpaFinder Wellness 365 Urbana by Sobel Westex

Silver AMSkier Agency Inc. FarmHouse Fresh Grounded Beauty Hutchinson Consulting Kashwere, LLC Natura Bisse International NuFACE

Organic Male OM4 RevitaLash Spa & Club Ideations LLC SpaSoft Springer-Miller Systems Zents Body Care

Bronze Aromatherapy Associates Cyrna Grande Naturals, LLC Intrinsics Margot Elena Companies & Collections Noel Asmar Group Inc.

Saphira Skin Inc. Magazine Soleil Toujours, LLC The Madison Collection VOYA Products Ltd Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics AS OF JUNE 28, 2016

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ASK THE EXPERT

JAMIE MILLS

BY MAE MAÑACAP-JOHNSON

Canadean—a market research and analysis provider of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) markets, which include beverages, food, retail and cosmetics—offers insights on the latest consumer behaviors and demands in its Top Trends in Beauty and Grooming report.

ASSOCIATE ANALYST JAMIE MILLS gives a deeper analysis on key trends shaping in the beauty industry, how men’s grooming routines have evolved and what beauty innovations are trending across the globe.

Pulse: Can you provide information about how the study was conducted?

Jamie Mills: The brief, Top Trends in Beauty & Grooming, was published in February 2016. Canadean constantly monitors developments in categories across the fast-moving consumer goods landscape, as well as the evolving habits of consumers, ingredients and flavor trends, and more. Our coverage spans the past, present and future, to understand the realities of today, and the opportunities of tomorrow—meaning you can gain the early-mover advantages necessary for growth.

The analysis features insights from our primary research inputs in the form of Canadean’s global consumer surveys.

This includes two of our most recent surveys. First is the Canadean’s Q4 Global Survey 2015, conducted in December 2015 (with 27,185 respondents across 31 countries). The other survey is the Canadean’s Q2 Global Survey 2015, conducted in April/May 2015 (with 24,500 respondents across 25 countries).

P: Are there glaring differences globally on consumer behaviors toward beauty and grooming?

M: Behaviors in the beauty space vary greatly across regions and this has had a profound impact on global approaches. One region which has rapidly grown in prominence through influencing beauty innovations and trends globally is Asia. Asian beauty regimens and requirements differ greatly from those across the world, making them pioneers in new products, functionality and applications.

South Korea and Japan, in particular, are among the strong players that set the beauty standard globally. This is evident in the explosion of “alphabet cream innovation” (i.e., BB creams) which migrated from Asia to the West a few years ago but had already

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been very well-established in beauty regimens for Asian consumers.

Similarly, this region continues to influence with trends such as beauty oils and multi-step regimens, which are making significant inroads in global beauty routines, capitalizing on consumer demands for more effective, novel solutions to achieve their beauty goals.

P: The report noted that 71 percent of consumers globally believe in the benefits of superfruits. Can you share some similar key percentage data that highlight consumer preferences on beauty ingredients found in their products?

M: Canadean’s research shows that over half (56 percent) of consumers globally would choose fewer chemicals or processed ingredients over more functionality when purchasing beauty and grooming products. This is indicative of the growing awareness and concerns over chemical and synthetic formulations. It also highlights how historical perceptions of naturally formulated products being less effective are changing, with trust in their efficacy growing.

According to Canadean’s Q2 global consumer survey 2015, natural ingredients which consumers perceive to be effective in beauty and grooming products include: l Green tea – 74 percent of consumers globally believe it to be effective. l Coconut oil – 64 percent of consumers globally believe it to be effective.

P: In terms of innovation, what are examples of innovative approaches that are helping to change the beauty and grooming space?

M: Linked to the key trends we’ve identified impacting the

beauty and grooming space as highlighted in the report, some key innovation examples include: l Multi-step me: In 2015, Korean skin-care brand Belif was launched in the U.S., stocked by retailer Sephora. The range features products that have not been traditionally used in Western skin care in a complementary routine, with up to seven steps including essences, gels and daily masks. l Health-inspired: With coconut water being hailed for its superior hydration benefits, Josie Maran’s Coconut Watercolor Lip Stain + Shine is designed to provide up to 14 hours of hydration using coconut water while also providing long-wearing pigment.

P: As far as male grooming is concerned, what top trends are emerging among male consumers?

M: In terms of male consumers, over the past few years, we’ve seen an interest in products that promote faster facial hair growth. Asserting masculinity in an era when male grooming and looking after oneself is being increasingly accepted is an important driver, particularly relevant within Western markets wherein male grooming is relatively in its infancy compared to more mature markets, such as Asia.

In this respect, while metrosexuality has become a wellestablished trend within the male grooming space, needs are evolving and this has given rise to the recently coined “spornosexuals” and “lumbersexuals.”

Spornosexual is a new trend considered to be the next step for metrosexuality where emphasis is placed on enhancing both masculinity and sexuality with icons such as sportsmen providing the inspiration for this.

Lumbersexuals can, appearance-wise, perhaps be seen as the antithesis of spornosexuals, sporting full beards and the “rugged” look. Nevertheless, this does not mean that they are any less interested in taking care of their appearance and engaging with products targeted toward their needs.

Therefore, the importance placed on highlighting masculinity represents an important driver within this trend and providing products which can cater to specific appearancerelated needs, such as facial hair, will be in demand by these appearance-conscious males. An example of innovation targeting this trend is Tom Ford’s Conditioning Beard Oil for Men launched in the U.K. n

BEAUTY AND GROOMING TRENDS Based on Canadean’s surveys, the five key trends in the beauty and grooming space include: 1. Multi-step me: While multifunctional continues to grow, efficacy-driven consumers are increasingly willing to extend their beauty regimens to achieve the results they want.

2. Health-inspired: The overarching health movement creates opportunities to inspire beauty solutions with superfood ingredients and creates a more promising landscape for nutricosmetics.

3. Environmental protection: Awareness of the impact of self-imposed aggressors such as poor diet is established. However, concerns over damage from the external environment are widening.

4. Evolving routes to customization: Combining technology with custom solutions creates a highly relevant opportunity for brands and consumers looking for more effective and creative offerings.

5. #Iwokeuplikethis: Today’s visual culture is driving the need to look naturally flawless through concealing imperfections, beauty “cures,” and more holistic approaches.

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SUCCESSSTORIES INSPIRING TALES OF STARTUPS, GROWTH AND OVERCOMING HARDSHIPS

Helping Cancer Survivors Rediscover Self-Beauty

BY MAE MAÑACAP-JOHNSON

KIM BECKER Founder and President, Hello Gorgeous! of Hope, Inc., South Bend, Indiana ello Gorgeous! of Hope, Inc Founder and President Kim Becker already had a successful 1,000-square-foot salon business when she felt something missing. In one of her many conversations with her husband in which she shared her desire to make a difference in other’s lives, the idea of starting a mobile day spa that caters to cancer patients came upon her. “The idea just dropped in my heart,” she recalls.

When she told her husband that she wanted to start a “palace on wheels that will treat patients and survivors like a queen for a day—all for free,” she recalled seeing her husband’s face turned white. His first question was: “How are we going to do this?” At that time, Becker didn’t know the answer, but there was one thing she was certain: this was her life calling and she needed to pursue it.

H

Starting a Nonprofit Organization Becker founded the nonprofit organization 10 years ago. “We started Hello Gorgeous! with a one-dollar donation from our son from his garage sale money. From that one-dollar donation, we managed to grow the organization and have just surpassed the one-million-dollar mark in cash and in-kind donations,” Becker says.

She sold her salon business to focus on Hello Gorgeous! and worked as an independent salon contractor to support her family while her husband worked seven days a week to get the nonprofit organization off the ground. “Our Certified Salon Affiliate program began in the salon that I had previously sold.

We were performing our makeovers on Fridays at that time, only

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one day each week, and we were using my salon station to do the services,” she says. “To date, we have certified more than 50 salons in 10 states. We have helped more than 900 women through these surprise makeover experiences. We also have a fleet of two mobile day spas called Hope and Faith.”

What’s in a Name?

The organization’s catchy name was her husband’s idea. While thinking of names for her salon business, her husband suggested “Hello Gorgeous!” “That’s the stupidest name I have ever heard!” she recalls telling him at that time. But when they decided to start the nonprofit organization, Becker’s first thought for a name was exactly that: Hello Gorgeous! “Because this is how these women deserve to be greeted,” she says.

Number of years as an ISPA member: 1 Year Learned about ISPA: “I heard of ISPA several years ago but was formally introduced to the association by BeTini Spirits, a cause-marketing partner that invited the organization to attend the ISPA Conference & Expo last year as a resource partner.”

Reason for joining ISPA: “After attending and seeing the caliber and diversity of ISPA Conference’s education and presentations, I realized that the association has a higher standard and expectation for the industry, one that models my own,” Becker says.

ISPA resource most beneficial: “I believe the ISPA Conference & Expo was one of the best industry-related events I have attended in my 28-year career as a stylist, salon owner and national educator. The professionalism and attention to detail were unequaled.”

Becker was all smiles in front of the media during one of the nonprofit organization's many surprise makeover events at their mobile day spa bus.

The early years had its share of challenges. After acquiring its 501(c)(3) and nonprofit status, Becker needed to convince people to open their wallets to give money to the organization.

“It was a challenge to ask people to have faith in you when your dream did not exist yet, nor had it ever been done before. We were trailblazing,” she says. Fortunately, Becker lives by a quote from Mark Batterson: “Sometimes you have to say ‘This is crazy’ before you can say ‘This is awesome.’”

Thankfully, with the help of effective branding, the organization was able to tell its brand story to a bigger audience and found success in marketing. “We want to make sure that when the public hears the words ‘Hello Gorgeous!’ they think of us,” she says. “Recently, we have been using Instagram and our Facebook page to share the stories of some of the women we have served as a way of spreading our message. This has increased our reach immeasurably. We have also received a few nominations from other countries, so we feel that this tactic is doing its job.”

Innovative Ideas Aside from the unique mobile day spa that allows the Hello Gorgeous! team to perform surprise makeovers anywhere, Becker says their Certified Salon Affiliate program is one of the organization’s most innovative idea. After learning that many doctors

advise patients against having salon services while going through cancer treatment, Becker saw the opportunity for better education.

“I began to realize that I was never taught this in beauty school, and I was almost certain that most hairdressers were not taught this either. It was on those findings that the program is based. Each salon that participates in our program must go through this extensive three-hour training that includes [treatment protocols] and precautions which are needed to be taken,” she says.

The organization has certainly come a long way, but Becker still has one regret: she wished she had the faith to dedicate all her time and energy to the organization much sooner. “The strides we have made since focusing all of my time and energy in the direction of Hello Gorgeous! have been astounding. Life is too short for regrets. These women with cancer have taught me that,” she says. “I now understand that when I let fear stop me, hundreds of women must suffer through their cancer journey without the knowledge and services we are able to provide.” n

HELLO GORGEOUS!

published two inspirational books.Click here to learn more about these resources.

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ISPA NEWS

August is...

Access Pulse on the Go

● ●

Away from your desk and wanting to access this month’s

●

National Golf Month National Water Quality Month Psoriasis Awareness Month

Pulse magazine? No need to worry—you can access digital NATIONAL WATER QUALITY MONTH

Pulse anywhere by visiting pulse.experienceispa.com. Full of stories, clickable links, engaging videos and many more extras, digital Pulse is great for the spa professional on the move.

Looking for a story in a past issue of Pulse? ISPA members can access the Pulse archives by visiting experienceispa.com/pulse/past-issues.

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7 Contribute to the ISPA Blog The blog content on ISPA’s website is getting ramped up— and we want your input! Whether it’s about member news, regulatory changes or industry trends, we want it covered in the ISPA blog! Looking for opportunities to contribute in the blog? Let us know if you have a topic you want to write about, we welcome member contributions!

EMAIL

ispa@ispastaff.com with any questions about digital Pulse, the Pulse archives or contributing to the ISPA blog!

FOLLOW ISPA

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Exhibitor Appreciation Week

Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro

International Friendship Day

Exercise with Your Child Week

Deadline to donate and be included in Auction catalog ISPA Conference Hotel Room Block deadline

National Relaxation Day

August Snapshot Survey opens World Humanitarian Day

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National Senior Citizen Day U.S.

August Snapshot Survey closes Women’s Equality Day

@ISpaDoYou facebook.com/InternationalSPAAssoc @ISpaDoYou

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Franchise Appreciation Day

ISPA FOUNDATION

FOUNDATION

2016 ISPA FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS CHAIRMAN Frank Pitsikalis ResortSuite VICE CHAIRMAN Sharilyn Abbajay Red Door Spas

DIRECTORS Todd Shaw Acting Chairman Michael Tompkins Immediate Past Chairman Lynne McNees ISPA President

MEDICAL ADVISOR Brent Bauer, M.D. Mayo Clinic HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS Ruth Stricker The Marsh, A Center for Balance and Fitness Deborah Szekely WELLNESS WARRIOR

The ISPA Foundation wishes to thank the following supporters for their generous contributions: LUMINARY

Congratulations to this year’s ISPA Foundation Mary Tabacchi Scholarship recipients! fter a thorough selection process, two new recipients will be awarded the ISPA Foundation Mary Tabacchi Scholarship this year: Kelsey Brink and Margot Mangiarotti.

Brink is from Hallstead, Pennsylvania who is earning a degree in Resort and Hospitality Management from Florida Gulf Coast University while Mangiarotti resides in Locust Valley, New York and is studying Hotel Administration at Cornell University. The two scholarship recipients will be recognized during the General Session at the ISPA BRINK Conference & Expo.

Brink and Mangiarotti were selected from a group of highly qualified MANGIAROTTI applicants after an extensive review process, which included being interviewed by a committee of spa industry professionals along with the scholarship’s benefactor, Dr. Mary Tabacchi of Cornell University.

The ISPA Foundation is proud to provide a US$5,000 scholarship as well as mentorship and a oneyear ISPA student membership to assist these two deserving students in building their careers. Brink plans to conduct research on the healing powers of touch and massage while Mangiarotti aspires to make the spa industry more readily available to consumers.

I encourage you to extend your warm congratulations to both recipients as well as show your support to the ISPA Foundation by donating to the ISPA Foundation Live & Silent Auctions so we can continue to help provide scholarship opportunities to deserving future leaders in the spa industry. Your donation doesn’t only help in our mission to strengthen the industry, but also allows you to bring your brand in front of spa industry decision-makers during the ISPA Conference & Expo. Finally, to those who have already donated, my sincerest thanks to you all!

A

—FRANK PITSIKALIS, ISPA FOUNDATION CHAIRMAN

Ruth Stricker BENEFACTOR

Dr. Howard Murad PATRON

Massage Envy Franchising, LLC

WANT TO KNOW HOW spas are able to create value for their brand by donating to the ISPA Foundation Live & Silent Auctions? Visit pulse.experienceispa.com to read Pitsikalis’ interview with Rancho La Puerta’s CEO and General Manager Roberto Arjona. Plus, email ispafoundation@ispastaff.com or visit attendISPA.com to donate to the ISPA Foundation Live & Silent Auctions today!

Red Door Spas ResortSuite August 2016

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1. Chandanni.com’s Face Grace Moisturizer is made with the highest-grade essential oils of lavender, calendula, camomile and rosewood, combined with almond oil and sesame oil.

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

CHANDANNI.COM | 1.323.371.1900

2. VAST Spa Solutions’ Saphira Mineral Mud is extracted directly from the depths of the Dead Sea. It is a deep conditioning treatment that contains 26 essential minerals and rebuilds the structural integrity of the hair.

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VASTSPASOLUTIONS.COM | 1.407.906.3335

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#NEW FINDS

Always on the look out for exciting new products to carry in your spa? Check out these product selections from some of the newest members of the ISPA community.

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3. Sensi Sandals’ Regatta Ice is a unisex, slide sandal. It has Sensi’s patented drainage system for water, sand, or soap, circulating air underfoot and contoured footbed massaging bubbles to help increase blood flow. Available in Cola, Murano Blue, Solid Black, Aqua Marine, Crystal Clear and Vapor.

SENSI.COM | 1.561.223.2220

4. PiperWai Natural Deodorant is the first aluminum-free deodorant that uses activated charcoal to absorb wetness and fight odor. Natural ingredients like organic coconut oil, shea butter, and pure vitamin E soothe even the most sensitive skin. PIPERWAI.COM 5. Katari’s Argil – Mediterranean Regenerative Hair Masque has a unique chemical composition that helps hair grow faster and stronger while providing additional volume.

Absolutely natural, Argil comes in dry powder with indefinite shelf life.

KATARISKINCARE.COM | 1.262.343.4554

6. Kathy Kamei Designs’ Quadruple Leaf Earrings are gorgeous, handmade and lightweight. Earrings are made of 92.5 sterling silver and 18K gold vermeil.

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KATHYKAMEI.COM | 1.415.810.5483

7. Without the use of detergents or water, Whish Body’s Revitalizing Cleansing Oil is a cleanser that magically melts away the most stubborn makeup, oils and impurities to reveal incredibly soft, smooth and wonderfully balanced skin.

WHISHBEAUTY.COM | 1.480.219.0864

8. Energie by Melis Accessories are designed with a handmade leather tassel or charm.

Different druzy quartz bead colors pull different positive healing energies: Midnight Blue for Strength/Power, Ivory for Calming/ Relaxation, Seaglass for Mindful/Awareness and Natural for Health/Healing.

MELIS.COM | 1.480.221.1412

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9. Eastern Vibration Sound Healing Set includes a Tibetan Singing Bowl presented in a convenient carrying bag, complete with a cushion, wooden mallet and Tingsha. The alloy is made up of seven metals which generate a rhythm to clear away, move and heal stagnant chi.

EASTERNVIBRATION.COM | 1.561.405.0543

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ISPA Welcomes New Members to the ISPA Community Resource Partner Agera Labs dba Med Aesthetics Color Craft DNA Corp EQ GAD Beauty Global Halotherapy Solutions

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onthly Snapshot Surveys provide ISPA members with a valuable look into the state of the spa industry, spa industry trends and help to identify the

GLOBO-SA INC

needs of spa professionals. The May Snapshot Survey asked

Health Advances

respondents to answer questions related to spa treatments.

Judith Culp Creative Copy KOS-USA LITE+CYCLE Mimi A La Mode

The chart below displays insightful information about the types of treatments/services that are included in the Snapshot Survey respondents’ spa menus.

Patchology Republic Polytechnic ScentAir Talika USA Travelzoo Vibrational Sound Association Spa Bliss Beauty Center Blush Day Spa Coronado Island Marriott Resort HoE Wellness Pvt.Ltd. LifeSpa Marc Anthoni Spa & Wellness McMenamins Edgefield c/o Ruby’s Spa Modern Male Spas Newport Beach Country Club Renaissance Indian Wells Resort & Spa Ritz Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee Sense Spirit Holdings Group Ltd Serra Hotels & Resorts Spa at Woodside Spa Daze Stowe Mountain Lodge Westlake Village Inn Educator

Snapshot Surveys are a great resource for ISPA members to stay up-

Kendall McCall

to-date on relevant industry topics and trends, so be sure to keep an eye out for next month’s survey in your inbox!

EDITOR’S NOTE: This includes new members from June 2-June 28. You can access the online membership directory at experienceispa.com.

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AD INDEX

PROUDLY SERVING ISPA AND THE ISPA FOUNDATION

ISPA would like to thank the following Pulse advertisers for their support of the association: 5

Biotone Professional Massage and Spa Products 1.800.445.6457 biotone.com

IBC

Bon Vital’ 800.253.6466 bonvital.com

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[ comfort zone ] north America 212.924.2454 comfortzone.it

IFC 1

Éminence Organic Skin Care 1.888.747.6342 eminenceorganics.com

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ESPA International (US) Ltd. 786.350.1192 us.espaskincare.com

INSERT

FarmHouse Fresh 1.888.773.9626 farmhousefreshgoods.com

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GrandeLASH-MD 877.835.3010 grandelashmd.com

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HydraFacial MD – Edge Systems LLC 1.800.603.4996 edgeforlife.com

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HydroPeptide 1.800.932.9873 hydropeptide.com

BC

jane iredale –

VISION To be the leader in promoting and enhancing the well-being of the spa industry and the people it serves.

MISSION ISPA advances the spa industry by providing invaluable educational and networking opportunities, promoting the value of the spa experience and speaking as the authoritative voice to foster professionalism and growth.

ISPA STAFF Lynne McNees • President lynne.mcnees@ispastaff.com • 1.859.226.4260 Crystal Ducker • Vice President of Research & Communications crystal.ducker@ispastaff.com • 1.859.226.4427 Jennifer Duckworth • Senior Director of Events jennifer.duckworth@ispastaff.com • 1.859.226.4254 Megan Browning • Marketing Manager megan.browning@ispastaff.com • 1.859.219.3549 Tara Finn • Sales Manager tara.finn@ispastaff.com • 1.859.226.4372 Briana Lee • Project Manager briana.lee@ispastaff.com • 1.859.219.3527 Mae Mañacap-Johnson • Editor mae.manacap-johnson@ispastaff.com • 1.859.425.5062 Allie Martin • Public Relations Manager allie.martin@ispastaff.com • 1.859.425.5072

THE SKIN CARE MAKEUP

1.844.350.1610 janeiredale.com

Allison Martin • Membership Account Executive allison.martin@ispastaff.com • 1.859.226.4334 Jessica Pfister • Fulfillment Coordinator jessica.pfister@ispastaff.com • 1.859.687.7014 Autumn Phelps • Trade Show Manager autumn.phelps@ispastaff.com • 1.859.226.4207

Welcome to the world Amelia Lucille Phelps!

8 lbs., 10 oz.

20 1/4 inches

Amber Phillips • Events Manager amber.phillips@ispastaff.com • 1.859.226.4420 Elizabeth Pulliam • Membership Experience Specialist elizabeth.pulliam@ispastaff.com • 1.859.219.3512

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Jurlique 1.800.854.1110 jurlique.com

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Organic Male OM4 877.898.6253 om4men.com

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Phytomer Group Brands 1.800.227.8051 phytomerusa.com

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ResortSuite 1.866.477.8483 resortsuite.com

Ashley Roberts • Project Coordinator ashley.roberts@ispastaff.com • 1.859.219.3621 Tara Salah Eldin • Project Coordinator tara.salaheldin@ispastaff.com • 1.859.219.3615 Samantha Smith • Project Manager samantha.smith@ispastaff.com • 1.859.219.3619 Jenny Wallace • Strategic Communications Manager jenny.wallace@ispastaff.com • 1.859.226.4354

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Bold indicates year-round Pulse advertisers and 2016 ISPA Conference & Expo sponsors.

Like a true community, let's make meaningful connections. Aimed at helping ISPA members discover each other, share one another's passions and inspirations, and hopefully kick-start warm introductions among peers, this section called Social Connections is all about building bridges. Share your passion with Pulse and see yourself featured in this section.

SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

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Mia Richardson FOUNDER AND CEO • COMPHY CO. FERNDALE, WASHINGTON

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1. BOOK CURRENTLY READING: reading: Arianna Huffington’s

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE: “Most of the important

The Sleep Revolution

things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.”

– Dale Carnegie

2. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: France 3. MOST USED APP(S): Google Maps, TripIt, Alaska Airlines and

Uber

FAVORITE MOVIE: Million Dollar Baby

4. INSPIRATIONAL LEADER OR BUSINESS ICON: Madame

CAN’T-LIVE-WITHOUT PIECE OF ACCESSORY: A statement

Clicquot Ponsard of Veuve Clicquot Champagne. When widowed in 1805, she took over her husband’s business and pioneered a new technique for making champagne, resulting in the successful business that we know today.

scarf and a well-made handbag

5. FAVORITE CHARITY OR CAUSE TO SUPPORT: I enjoy giving

back to local charities in my community, and I have a special place in my heart for organizations that benefit children or animals.

HOTEL AMENITY YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT: A good spa BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED: “Ninety-eight

percent of things in life aren’t important, so let them go, but fight for the remaining two percent with everything you’ve got.”

IF YOU CAN TIME-TRAVEL, YOU’D TRAVEL BACK TO: The

1940s. A simple, yet glamorous era with innocence and clarity.

ONE SUPERPOWER YOU’D LOVE TO HAVE: The power to heal. ■

FITNESS ROUTINE: Weight lifting four days a week and

walking every day (Got to get my steps!)

SOCIAL CONNECTIONS: comphy.com

linkedin.com/in/mia-richardson August 2016

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The quieter you become—the more you will hear.

STYLING & PHOTO BY ECHOSTARMAKER.COM

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he smell of freshly cut grass, experiencing a sunrise over the horizon and the sound of frogs croaking. These three bits of nature help me meditate. Let me explain…

Honestly, I struggle with how to meditate. For some reason, it has been

elusive to me. I have even tried a few apps to help me but it was a recent article on how to practice different forms of mediation that provided an easy tool for me. The author suggested focusing on three simple things as outlined below: 1. Something you smell.

2. Something you see.

3. Something you hear.

I decided to practice this while on my morning walks around our Kentucky property. I love it because you don’t have to shut your mind off (something I simply cannot master), you just have to narrow in and become aware of what surrounds you. This easy exercise really takes me back to gratitude, and how grateful I am to have the ability to smell, see and hear such amazing things.

The world can feel scary at times, but if we all take a moment to pause and focus on one thing, we can change our perspective in an instant to the beauty that surrounds us. What are you focusing on?

CONNECT WITH ME ON FACEBOOK! Lynne Walker McNees —LYNNE McNEES, ISPA PRESIDENT

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