LNE & SPA JANUARY 2023

LNE & Spa—the magazine for skin care and spa professionals January 2023

To learn more about partnering with Éminence, call 1-888-747-6342 or visit www.eminenceorganics.com.

FROM THE EDITOR

Happy New Year, readers! Many of us view the month of January as a “clean slate,” which just so happens to be the theme of this month’s issue. Since this is a time of recalibration, our January issue is packed with guidance on obtaining that proverbial fresh start.

Our product focus this month is on skincare to cleanse and refresh, providing a foundation to reveal that inner glow. Be sure to check out Imperfection Correction for a detailed look at effective hi-frequency treatments. In Ayurvedic Winter Skincare, you will learn how to beat the Winter skin blues. If you want a peek at a truly luxurious wellness retreat, our Spa of the Month, the Spa at Sage Lodge, certainly fits the bill.

LNE & Spa is all about elevation through education for the skincare and spa industry, providing valuable resources to grow your business, providing valuable resources to grow your business. Is there something you’d like to see in our pages this year? Your feedback and input is always welcome! Feel free to reach out to me anytime at kimberly@lneonline.com.

I hope you enjoy this issue!

KIMBERLY BOBSON FELDMAN Managing Editor

kimberly@lneonline.com

3929 PONCE DE LEON BLVD. CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA 33134

USA: 800.471.0229. Worldwide: 305.443.2322. Fax: 305.443.1664. LNEonline.com email: tradeshows@LNEonline.com • subscriptions@LNEonline.com

Publisher Dr. Jean Jacques Legrand

Chief exeCutive OffiCer Rodolphe Legrand rodolphe@LNEonline.com

Managing Editor Kimberly Bobson Feldman kimberly@LNEonline.com

DireCtOr Of COnferenCes & events Jacqueline Reyes jackie@LNEonline.com

Art DireCtOr Andres Gutierrez andres@LNEonline.com

shOw DireCtOr DAnni bOuCher danni@lneonline.com

MArketing DireCtOr AnAstAsiA wAgner anastasia@lneonline.com

exhibitOr OPerAtiOns MAnAger Elizabeth Allen liz@LNEonline.com

internAtiOnAl eDitOr Michele de Lattre-Pierantoni 7 Avenue Stephane-Mallarme, 75017 Paris, France - 43 80 06 47

Contributors

Kimberly Bobson Feldman • Emily Fritchey • Kalpana Semple • Aurora Solis

Pure and Simple

Brighten and protect with purifying cleansers

by Aurora Solis

Our skin is porous, absorbing microparticles floating around the environment. Unfortunately, not all of these invisible particles are skin-loving, with some clogging pores and producing toxins that can build up over time. Freeing pores from pollutants and debris requires a cleansing ritual, one that uses all-natural ingredients packed with antioxidants. For that, purifying cleansers are key, and we’re here to tell you why.

The Benefits of Purifying Cleansers

Purifying cleansers act to protect and shield the skin. Depending on the active ingredients, some seep deep into pores to pull out toxins, debris, and pollutants while others protect against floating free radicals. The results of using purifying cleansers are brighter, healthier-looking skin and reduced appearance of pores. Over time, protection from toxins and pollutants offered by purifying cleansers reduces visible signs of aging – mostly caused by continued exposure to free radicals.

Top Five Natural Ingredients in Purifying Cleansers

To combat environmental pollutants that can clog the pores and prematurely age the skin, it’s recommended to use purifying cleansers that clean deep into pores. Purifying cleansers with these natural ingredients gently cleanse while protecting the skin and should be on your list of skincare must-haves.

1. White Clay

White clay is a huge contender in the world of purifying, known for its magnetic properties. Purifying cleansers with white clay work to draw out dirt, oil, debris, and impurities from the pores. With continued use, skin will feel and look fresher, and pores will be virtually invisible.

2. Powerful Fruit Extracts

Vitamin C is found in several fruits, including citrus like lemon and orange. Finding purifying cleansers with natural fruit extracts can provide skin with a boost of Vitamin C, amping up its defenses against free radicals. Extended use brightens skin and fights against hyperpigmentation, all while promoting collagen production.

3. Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids

Natural forms of alpha and beta hydroxy acids are found in lemon, grapefruit, and tomato. Purifying cleansers

containing AHA fruit acids work to gently exfoliate the skin’s surface cells, revealing new, healthy, hydrated skin. Gentle exfoliation increases blood flow to the skin, revealing a more hydrated, livelier version.

4. Plant Extracts

Plant extracts provide a number of benefits to our skin and bodies. Using a cleanser with natural plant extracts as part of a skincare regimen provides skin with a dose of antioxidants and antimicrobials to keep skin clean, fresh, and purified.

5. Calming Botanicals

Botanicals fight premature aging by quenching dry, dehydrated skin. Soothing botanicals like aloe and cucumber are especially beneficial, thickening the skin's moisture barrier for added hydration. Botanical extracts have even been shown to inhibit the enzyme responsible for pigmentation, acting as skin’s defender from exposurerelated discoloration.

Double Cleanse for Double Results

The double cleansing craze swept across the web promising cleaner, healthier-looking skin. Unlike other come-and-go trends, this one can actually help increase the benefits of using purifying cleansers, especially for those who wear makeup daily. For the best results, start with an oil-based cleanser, using it as a way to remove makeup, dirt, and oil from the skin’s surface. Follow that up with a purifying cleanser packed with natural ingredients, and skin will glow from the inside out.

Purify and Protect

We are constantly exposed to pollution and free radicals, two major causes of premature aging. Purifying cleansers serve as a way to deep clean pores to remove impurities and boost antioxidants to fight harmful pollutants. When using purifying cleansers, you'll notice brighter, clearer, more hydrated skin and gain protection from harmful environmental elements.

OF ESTHETICS

Philadelphia, PA April 23 & 24, 2023

Pennsylvania Convention Center

The only all-inclusive educational experience for skin care and spa professionals. #ICESPhiladelphia2023 is the perfect opportunity to breathe new life into your career and services with fresh inspiration and insight from the best practitioners in the industry!

SPA OF THE MONTH

The Spa at Sage Lodge

Rejuvenate the soul with seasonal specialties

by Kimberly Bobson Feldman

What could possibly be better than a warming, luxurious spa treatment after a day exploring Yellowstone National Park? This dream becomes a reality at The Spa at Sage Lodge, set against the glorious backdrop of the Montana mountains.

“Montana is known for the picturesque landscape views, and that gets emphasized quite dramatically within our spa exterior courtyard,” shares Director of Spa and Wellness Brooke Bucher. “Clients enjoy a soak within our hot tub while enjoying unparalleled views of Emigrant Peak.”

A relatively new space, having opened in 2018, the Spa currently features five treatment rooms, an outdoor soaking tub, a s, team room, and a sauna. Due to high demand, an expansion efforts is already being planned. In addition to a carefully curated selection of massages, facials, and body treatments, the Spa smartly offers in-demand enhancements, including high frequency treatments, Gua Sha, and microneedling, as well as brow and lash services. Two-hour spa access passes are available to enjoy all of the relaxing amenities.

Keep reading to discover the indelible elements that make the Spa at Sage Lodge such an unparalleled retreat.

Signature Treatments

The most popular treatment is the Sage Signature Customized Massage, which is offered in 60 or 90 minutes. Guests expe-

rience the therapeutic benefits of Swedish massage, tailored to their preferences. The massage is customized to focus on what guests would like to experience or achieve, whether it’s relaxation or muscle recovery. The therapists use a variety of techniques as well as aromatherapy with a signature blend of organic essential oils to bring the mind and body into full relaxation, balance, and restoration.

Marketing

As the spa industry continues to evolve, social media and web presence are critical to sustaining operations. The Sage Lodge team works to evolve along the way with effective outreach to both loyal guests and potential clients.

“We work very closely with our Marketing team to create content that is shared via social media, local real estate agents, and various local businesses. Our therapists, as well as our front desk team encourage guests to book their next service before they leave,” notes Bucher. “Our therapists specifically work together with our guests, creating goals and plans for returning. Our goal is to have our guests feel genuinely cared for upon completion of any treatment, as well as the recommended path forward to ensure their wellness continues.”

Training

“We participate in trainings in multiple ways. We have our vendor trainings, which are

both conducted in-person, as well as remotely when appropriate. We hold mandatory team meetings every quarter, which cover important topics such as technician trainings, new product awareness, property announcements, reflection of past months operations, and forecasting ahead,” explains Bucher.

“We also go over guest feedback, both positive and constructive, to ensure we all celebrate and learn from our clients, and tr to incorporate an activity around that time as well, whether it is using the Spa amenities, having dinner, or off-property event. “

Management is constantly reviewing staff performance, with systems in place for guests to review their experience, with incentives like credit to spend on the property for positive mentions. Bucher prefers quick checkins (as opposed to annual performance reviews) an intentional process that lasts roughly five minutes but gives dedicated time for manager-to-team member dialogue.

Revenue and Retail

“We choose our retail lines very carefully and with intention,” details Bucher. “We look for what our guests historically have wanted and pick products that have a “why” behind them. We try to have something for everyone, including skincare, clothing, gifts, and self-care items. We like to support smaller companies whenever possible and monitor and adjust as often as necessary.”

Lines the spa currently carries include Eminence, emergin-C, Glo Luxury Oils, Clovis Jewelry, BigWick Candles, and Sweet Water Décor. “We continue to look for brands that align with our goals,” Bucher says.

Spa revenues are mixed at 60 percent massage, 30 percent facial, and 10 percent retail. The Spa is exploring growth via private party hosting that encompasses not only treatments, but food and beverage offerings and customized activities.

The Spa at Sage Lodge 55 Sage Lodge Drive Pray, Montana 59065 855.400.0505 www.sagelodge.com/spa

Rundown Spa Director Spotlight

Brooke Bucher has been in the Spa and Wellness industry for more than 20 years. Her journey began as a massage therapist; she knew then that she wanted to bring her previous leadership and management experience into the luxury spa environment. She has worked at some of the best properties in the US, including The Broadmoor, The Grand Del Mar, The Ranch at Rock Creek, and Sage Lodge.

First S tep To Flawless Skin

Combine purifying cleanser and restore peptides to achieve flawless skin! This cleanser is formulated to lift makeup and environmental impurities without removing the skin's natural oils, leaving the skin clean and hydrated. The deep-pore cleansing formula allows subsequent serums to penetrate more efficiently, revealing vibrant, healthy skin.

For more information about purif ying cleanser or any of our restore serums visit us at www.viktoriadeann.com

Photo provided by: Skin Care Solutions, LLC by Brenda Keller

Pointers for a successful year Top Tips for 2023

by Kimberly Bobson Feldman

Whether you are an owner or employee, understanding the business fundamentals of spas and salons is a key component of success. While we have touched on many of these topics previously, here are our top 15 tips to put you on the path to success this year – all in one place! Read on to discover how to make 2023 your business’s best year yet!

Plan it out

Most people wouldn’t embark on a road trip without a map! Whether you have a detailed business strategy or a more general outline, having a document you can refer back to any time you are in need of guidance is essential.

nuyutw.com

Know your goal

What does success mean to you? There are so many different ways to answer this question, but you must have a clear idea of what you want your business to achieve. When you have a goal you are working toward every day, positive results are likely to follow.

Keep your customers close…

Survey the local area to determine your customer base. Identifying their wants, needs, and budget so you can offer services targeted specifically for these demographics.

…And your competitors closer

Savvy business owners are very familiar with their competition. Knowing what other spas and salons are offering can reveal what works, what doesn’t, and ways you can set your business apart from the pack.

Understand profits vs. sales

Certain services may sell well but drain time and resources. It can take some trial and error but pay attention to what produces the biggest return on investment. A pared-down menu of in-demand express services, plus a carefully curated retail line, could be just the ticket. There’s no need to try to offer every product and service under the sun!

Hire problem-solvers

In a perfect world, all of your employees would have just as much passion for your business as you do. While that’s not always possible, try to find motivated employees via recommendations or even develop some screening questions that will bring in experienced staff who deliver a high-quality customer experience. Be sure to keep them inspired to bring their A game!

Keep standards high

Employee training, on both an initial and ongoing basis, is key to making sure each customer receives the same level of service on every visit. Frequent education on the latest trends and techniques is also crucial.

Choose the right scheduling software

Using a software system for appointment scheduling bas many benefits, including fewer errors and more time for staff to focus on other areas of your business. There are tons of options out there, with many offering free trials so you can find your perfect fit!

Education is continuous

Staying on top of the latest tools, techniques, and methodologies regarding your offerings is critical. Make it a point to always be learning! There are so many ways to stay educated, from online courses to trade shows to industry retreats.

Create an ambient atmosphere

A warm, inviting space tells clients this is somewhere they want to be! Creating the right vibe doesn’t necessarily have to cost a fortune, just be sure everything is tidy and cozy at all times. Great aromatherapy is a must!

Be your own publicist

Don’t be shy! Call up local and regional media outlets, explain why your spa or salon is unique, and let them know you’d love to be featured. You’ll be surprised how many outlets are looking for content and will say “yes!” Plus, as opposed to advertising, publicity doesn’t cost a dime.

ID your brand

How do you want your clients to feel when they think of your business? A brand identity is what creates that feeling you are aiming for. A modern, attractive logo, color palette, print material, and even a signature scent all serve to evoke positive association for your brand.

Use your marketing toolbox

The list of available marketing tactics is expansive. Integrated, up-to-date social media channels that are a must, along with email campaigns, promotional events, and strong online reviews. Utilize all the tools you can and mix it up often!

Outside the box hours

Many business owners are inclined to operate during traditional business hours. However, that leaves many potential customers with traditional 9-to-5 jobs unable to visit. If possible, consider opening a little earlier in the morning, or staying open for a few more hours in the evening, to attract these clients.

Take stock

Take a good, hard look at all aspects of your business at least once per quarter. Knowing the good, the bad, and the ugly – and even asking for input from your employees – can help you make informed adjustments to stay on course toward your goals.

EDITOR’S PICK OF THE MONTH

Gloss Ultrasonic Skin Scrubber by Glownar

The Gloss Ultrasonic Skin Scrubber does it all: exfoliates dead skin cells, brightens skin, and prevents/treats acne all while its built-in spray feature releases a constant stream of mist onto skin during treatment to keep it moist. This tool features a built-in blue LED light to help control inflammation and treat acne while simultaneously preventing new breakouts. glownar.com

Healing Cream by Zensa Skin Care

Clinically proven to reduce itching, minimize scarring, treat skin conditions and promote easy recovery post-procedure, this cream is vegan, steroid- and cruelty-free relief for skin conditions like eczema. Formulated with medicinal-grade and all natural ingredients, including Calendula and grapefruit oil, which are proven to reduce irritation and speed up healing. Shea butter and cucumber extract soothe and hydrate the skin. Sunflower seed oil brightens tattoos while preserving original color. zensaskincare.com

Complexion Brightener by TIZO

Lash Remover Bundle by Lashed Cartel

This handy kit includes everything needed for safe lash removal: Issa Wrap Cream Lash Remover, 50 mascara wands, 50 lipstick wands, Clean $late Lash Wash, and a 500mL wash bottle. lashedcartel.myshopify.com

TIZO® Complexion Brightener is a unique blend of ingredients to help even and brighten the skin’s appearance naturally. It is also an elegant moisturizer to reduce the skin’s pigment imperfections for an overall even appearance. tizoskin.com

Esthetician Spotlight Pearl Dworkin

What is your business called and where are you located?

Skincare by Pearl in Los Altos, California.

Can you give a little information about your background as an esthetician?

I have been an esthetician for 27 years! Becoming an esthetician was the best decision for me; it has been quite a fabulous journey of learning everything I can about health and wellness. I started at a day spa called Preston Wynne, volunteered for years facilitating classes for Look Good Feel Better, then I worked for a cosmetic surgeon doing medical skincare, where I went to training on Manual Lymph Drainage. I have worked as an Account Executive, executed training and events in multiple states, and I have had my own skincare practice for over 20 years!

What inspired you to become an esthetician?

I started getting facials by a fabulous esthetician who had her own practice at the hair salon I went to. Her name is AnneRose Kmoch and she used YonKa products. Her facials transformed my skin. I learned so much from her and it was she who suggested I become an esthetician, too. I am grateful for her guidance and inspiration!

What beauty philosophy do you stand by?

Health is our greatest wealth. I believe in nourishing the body from within with a varied and healthy diet of fruits and veggies, drinking lots of water, moving your body every day and focusing on mental health and wellness internally. I love the Calm app! Spending time with people who support you, and laughter is truly the best medicine. I’m a huge fan of guided meditations. Nature, I believe, is also key to health and beauty, and I love to hike. With skincare, I believe in using plant-based, vibrant products, feeding the skin a healthy and varied diet of nutrients!

What is your favorite treatment?

I like to make a facial an “experience.” Clients arrive to a fresh herbal tea that sets the tone for the relaxation ahead! I believe the most skin healing happens when someone feels truly relaxed! I love a good enzyme facial using SkinScripts enzymes. I like to vary my treatments so it’s never the same. I pepper in lots of facial massage, customize aromatherapy, Gua Sha and even light facial cupping. I also love my Lightwave LED device and my La Meiux oxygen atomizer- this is such a great device.

What brands do you use and why?

I use SkinScripts; I love their enzymes! I’m also using a lot of La Meiux serums

that are full of nutrients. For many years I have been creating balms, serums, and oil cleansers! I have studied to become an Herbalist for years and during Covid shutdowns I took two semesters of Herbalism and lots of workshops to keep myself busy. I use whole fresh plants from Northern California farmers and customize them for my clients. I also love SkinBlends and use some of their products to create custom eye creams. My good friend who I went to Nutrition school with, Rhonda , created a brand called Erzulie and love her clean makeup!

What is your secret to beautiful skin?

Vibrant, fresh ingredients, using balms, and plant based hydrosols. Face massage, drinking fresh green juice, and nutrient rich smoothies!

What are your favorite tools to use in the treatment room and why?

My hands, haha! There is no substitute for skilled hands. I like to invest in facial massage training and things I can learn that stay with me forever and don’t depend on electricity -meaning I can give a great treatment without depending on machines.

My Lucas machine. My clients call it the rain forest treatment and I customize with aromatherapy. The YonKa toner is best with this, too!

Gua Sha. I love the kansa one I got from Robert and Melanie Sachs. It’s unbreakable and works great!!

LED Lightwave gives beautiful results and is very powerful with no down time. Sometimes I play guided meditations during this session for clients. Amazing results!

La Meiux’s Oxygen Atomizer with their serums. Love, love, love!

A new tool from Raana Kashani Gregg, the LUNAESCENT touch-free skincare applicator, is very good for clients to take home and use as a massage tool. Plus, you can avoid having to dip fingers in jars, keeping everything clean and sanitary. I love that she is a woman entrepreneur who saw a need for herself and created something amazing out of that need!

What is your favorite part about working for your company?

Helping my clients feel and look beautiful. Lifelong learning and seeing that glow when they leave!

BEAUTY BULLETIN BOARD

Universal Companies Announces Non-Toxic Cleaning Product Line Force of Nature

One of the most significant trends that has come out of the past two years is the emphasis on germ-free environments for spa and salon goers. Sanitation is top of mind, and so is having simple solutions to achieve this goal. Equally, communicating to customers is essential so they know you are working on behalf of their safety and comfort.

Universal Companies, a trusted spa and wellness resource, announces that Force of Nature,a planet-friendly, toxin-free cleaner and EPAregistered disinfectant, is now a spa exclusive brand. Force of Nature ends the compromise between cleaning and health with appliances that convert salt, water and vinegar into a multi-purpose cleaner. Their formula sets a new standard in health and sustainability by:

• Killing 99.9% of viruses and bacteria with no toxic chemicals

• Eliminating single-use plastic bottles and having a carbon footprint 10 times less than typical cleaners

• Earning the highest rating by Mayo Clinic's SkinSAFE & Green Seal certification

• Eliminating all-purpose, glass, and bathroom cleaners, deodorizers and disinfectants with one multi-tasking formula

For individual practitioners as well as spas of all sizes, Force of Nature will allow wellness providers to make a significant impact on the health and safety of their staff, clients, and the planet. Find out more at universalcompanies.com.

Tools + Tech

Lunaescent Touch-Free Applicator

The Lunaescent touch-free applicator is a multi-purpose beauty tool sold in sets consisting of a soft-textured handle in one of Lunaescent’s custom colors with a pivoting head, and two attachable proprietary soft oval applicator pads made from Platinum-grade nontoxic silicone. One silicone pad is perfectly smooth and ideal for general application of skin products; the other is lightly textured and ideal for massaging and depuffing. The skincare product is applied to the silicone pad by dipping or direct deposit, and then gently smoothed onto the face, neck, or other desired areas. The pads are fully removable, washable, and reusable. lunaescent.com

DermaSwiss Institute

DermaSwiss, a leading results-driven professional skincare line, offers the DermaSwiss Institute (DSI), online and in-person courses and advanced education for estheticians. With flexible schedules of morning and evening classes, highly experienced and internationally recognized professors provide instruction to small groups for a personalized education. Hands-on practice with the latest equipment in the industry and Swiss quality products pave the way to professional excellence. Backed by 30 years of experience in facial esthetics, the DSI can also prepare estheticians for a Florida State License in just 14 weeks. Visit dermaswissinstitute.com for more information.

HIS CORNER

RETINOL RADIANCE

Many skincare products only reach the outermost layer of the skin. Since the skin in always shedding dead cells, results from these surface-reach products are not exactly long lasting. There is an elite group of ingredients that penetrate the skin deeply for meaningful results, and retinol is one of the best of the bunch. From reducing wrinkles and fading dark spots to soothing acne and stimulating collagen production, this Vitamin A derivative is a solid treatment option for a variety of skincare concerns your clients may be facing.

PIETRO SIMONE SKINCARE FUTURE TEXTURE

This strategic bio-tech toner compound restores the skin microbiome, stimulates skin renewal and sustains the skin metabolism. Ginger, Frankincense and Grape molecules work the epidermis and Corneum Stratum to rebalance the skin microbiome fighting redness, inflammation and acne while preserving the skin barrier. pietrosimone.com

SENTÉ DERMAL REPAIR BODY CREAM

Senté Dermal Repair Body Cream is a deeply hydrating and renewing skin repair cream for visibly healthier and more even looking skin in four weeks. Ideal for sensitive skin, it is formulated with Camellia leaf extract. dermstore.com

MALE SKIN PROTOCOL Contributed by DermaSwiss

Male skin is generally thicker, with some impurities, and can tend to be oilier than female skin. This protocol will help even out texture, pigmentation, and sebum, as well as deeply cleanse, hydrate and illuminate the skin. One 45-60 minutes treatment per month is recommended.

Here are the10 steps to follow:

1. Cleanse the skin.

2. Perform one pass of microdermabrasion if skin type permits. 3. Exfoliate with a scrub mixed with Glycocell and leave on for eight minutes (in conjunction with the steamer if extractions are performed). Remove with plenty of water. 4. Perform extractions, if needed. 5. Apply high frequency for two to three minutes.

6. Spot treat any lesions. 7. Apply toner. 8. Apply serum. 9. Leave a mask on for 20 minutes (make sure it’s a purifying formula if skin is oily).

10. Protect with SPF

Perfect Partnerships

Natasha Gutierrez, Skin Appointment

1. What made you decide to work with Celluma Light Therapy?

I would have to say the initial attraction to working with Celluma Light Therapy was just how approachable the Clinical Sales Specialists are. The team makes it so easy to learn about the device and more about the effectiveness of light therapy in general. Of course, the tool itself is aesthetically pleasing and easy to use.

2. What do you enjoy about Celluma Light Therapy products?

I love how lightweight the tools are and how the panels are flexible. I feel like

I found a tool that can make everyone in my treatment room feel comfortable during treatments.

3. What kind of support do you receive from Celluma Light Therapy? Everyone I’ve ever talked to at Celluma will answer my questions right away, and for me, that is so important. The training from my Clinical Sales Specialist and the many free educational opportunities has been so valuable. Learning about light therapy and what sets Celluma apart from other brands has

increased my knowledge and helped me better educate my clients.

4. What sets Celluma Light Therapy apart from other brands?

Three things: education, an approachable team, and how practical this tool is! Celluma really has become a staple in my treatment room, and I appreciate the support they provide practitioners. Celluma is easy for me to use and comfortable and effective for my clients. What could be better?

Ayurvedic Winter Skincare

Shifting energy to beat the blues

by Kalpana Semple

Winter is that time of year where nature allows everything to become dormant and to recharge itself for the next cycle. Energies that were previously focused outwards are now focused inwards for this period of regeneration. You are also an integral part of nature, and your body, skin, and hair will all need a shift in rituals to ensure they are being properly honored and to allow them to be at their best.

The art and practice of Ayurveda is tuned into the rhythms of nature and defines a method of seasonal living known as Ritucharya. Once you become aware of this and open up to living in alignment with the natural flow that is best for you, then you’re ready to embrace some simple shifts to fully honor your body.

Understanding your doshas

In Ayurvedic terms, the prevalent energy is Vata, which is one of the three energetic modalities known as doshas. Understanding your doshas is key to tuning your ritual to that which best serves you.

As Winter induces a general sense of lethargy, Vata brings dryness with it, which your skin will have a rapid response to. Your scalp will feel itchier and your hair may feel a bit more brittle. You will probably notice dryer skin, especially on your arms and legs. Your face especially has an adverse reaction to the Winter season. In addition to increased dryness, you may notice more puffiness too. This can be attributed to reduced moisture in the skin, reduced circulation and reduced lymphatic drainage.

Effective skin care requires a holistic approach and your first opportunity to improve your ritual is to honor your body by treating it like a sacred space. Minimize or eliminate alcohol, unhealthy food and snacks, caffeine, and sugar. Remember that your skin is your body’s largest organ and anything you put on it will be absorbed into your bloodstream and organs. Ensure that your skincare ritual utilizes simple, natural products, especially those formulated with Ayurvedic principles.

In the Vata season, your body will respond best to warm, soupy foods. Khichdi, an Indian staple that has been dubbed a superfood, is a wonderful choice as it’s easy to digest and is extremely healthy and nutritious.

Maintaining your gut health is a crucial part of an effective skin care ritual. What goes in, must come out and will

ultimately have an impact on your skin’s appearance. Key to digestion is Agni – the ‘fire’ that causes your food to digest and process properly. Ensuring you’re eating the right foods – at the right time – will assist in ensuring your digestion is working optimally to the benefit of your skin. Last but not least: hydration. It is crucial to all aspects of your body’s wellbeing and ultimately your skin’s radiance.

Getting enough quality rest and sleep cannot be overstated. When you don’t get enough, it will be readily apparent in your skin quality, with the presence of dark circles. Incorporating practices such as yoga and meditation into your wellbeing ritual will further enhance your body's natural energetic rhythms and reduce the stress in your body.

One of the great pleasures in the cold winter months is a long shower or bath with hot water. Be mindful that too much exposure can reduce your skin's natural oil, which will further contribute to dryness. When you bathe, ensure you add some quality natural oils to the water to replenish the oils impacted by the hot water.

Rituals are essential to all aspects of Ayurveda. To get the maximum benefit from your shower, incorporate the ritual of Garshana into your routine. This is the practice of dry brushing, using a special soft-bristled brush to gently brush your skin without any oils or lotions. This helps remove any dead skin cells, unclog pores, improve circulation and promote lymph flow and drainage. You may find this practice energizing and invigorating.

Follow this with Abhyanga, the ritual of massaging an Ayurvedic oil onto your body. There are so many benefits of this practice, including stress relief, better sleep, and healthier skin. It’s considered an act of self-love to honor your body and skin in this way. When you perform this practice before your shower or bath, you will greatly enhance the experience. Afterwards, if you feel your skin needs a little more love, you can apply a moisturizing body oil.

Your face is often exposed when you venture out in the cold weather and can thus be impacted a little more by the elements. It’s preferable to adjust your skincare ritual now rather than waiting until you notice some damage. On a regular basis, do a facial steam with herbs and botanicals to open and unclog the pores. Follow this with an Ayurvedic-inspired scrub to gently deep cleanse, detox, and exfoliate the skin. Massage the face using a facial massage oil with the tool of your choice –face roller, Gua Sha, or Kansa Wand. Follow this with a gentle face mask that is best suited to your specific skin composition. After you wash off the face mask, complete your face care ritual by applying the moisturizer and/ or natural face oil of your choice.

You will be pleasantly surprised with the results you’ll experience by embracing these Ayurvedic principles, shifting your energy focus inwards and adjusting your rituals to maintain your precious skin’s health throughout the Winter months.

Kalpana Semple is the Founder and Product Creator of Kaia Skin – a unique line of Ayurvedic inspired, energy infused face, skin, and haircare products that are handmade in small batches. Growing up in an Indian household, Kalpana became well versed in Ayurvedic principles and ingredients, and began experimenting and combining ingredients to create natural skin and hair treatments.

is key to tuning your ritual to that which best serves you.

Imperfection Correction A solution for skin irregularities

by Emily Fritchey

Spider veins, skin tags, and age spots…oh my! These pesky skin irregularities can show up at any age, and for that matter – anywhere on the body. At some point, many of us will notice a brown spot, spider vein, skin tag, or some other irregularity pop up on our skin. They can make you feel very self-conscious when they occur on the face, neck and chest, not to mention other more frequently exposed areas of your body.

Many of these conditions develop from normal aging, sun damage, or genetic predisposition, and clients come to me all the time to find out what options they have to make them go away. First off, I am always excited to share how effective non-invasive, hi-frequency treatments can be to correct minor skin abnormalities. Without penetrating the skin’s surface, hi-frequency can quickly and effectively fade or even remove skin abnormalities on the whole body.

This works by utilizing high-frequency radio waves to conduct heat energy into each treatment area. Any moisture within the target area evaporates as skin absorbs this heat, effectively vaporizing the affected cells. Eventually, the dead cells peel off, leaving behind clear, smooth, flawless skin. Let’s take a closer look at the types of conditions that respond well to this type of treatment.

Spider Veins, also known as broken capillaries, can occur on any area of the body. These tiny, red, web-shaped lines are common on the legs and are entirely harmless. Broken capillaries occur when blood pools inside your veins, causing the vein to bulge and eventually branch out. This branch is what we refer to as a spider vein. Sun exposure and ultraviolet light are the primary causes of this condition, along with high blood pressure, rosacea, and other cardiovascular health conditions.

Skin Tags are common, harmless growths that can form anywhere on the body, but are prevalent on the back, chest, armpits, and groin area. These growths often develop following a period of weight gain or in areas where jewelry or clothing continually rub against the skin.

Cherry Angiomas are a common type of vascular irregularity and tend to be more prevalent in thin-skinned or fairskinned individuals. They appear as superficial, smooth red bumps and can occur anywhere on the body. Cherry angiomas are most common in individuals over the age of 30, and these may be unsightly, but are otherwise completely harmless.

Sebaceous Hyperplasia occurs when sebaceous glands swell as a result of trapped sebum and small bumps appear on the skin. Hi-frequency treatments target the moisture within these glands, vaporizing the affected cell. These look like small, flesh-colored

growths that have a dip in the middle – like a donut.

Milia are tiny, firm cysts that develop when keratin and sebum are trapped beneath the uppermost layer of your skin. They typically occur in small groups on the cheeks and nose but can also occur in other areas of the body. They are often difficult to remove with manual extraction, however, this treatment effectively eradicates these rigid, white bumps often found around the eye area and other parts of the face.

Keratosis is excessive growth of keratin, a skin protein, on the skin. There are a variety of causes that lead to several different types of keratosis. The three most common types of keratosis are keratosis pilaris, actinic keratosis, and seborrheic keratosis. There are many others, most of which are rare or have an inherited (genetic) basis.

Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra, or DPN, is a skin condition that typically appears as small, dark or skin-colored bumps on the face, neck, and upper torso. Some people only develop a few bumps, while others have many bumps covering large parts of their skin. DPN primarily affects people of African and Asian descent and tends to run in families.

Hi-frequency is a simple, non-invasive treatment that does not get nearly enough press, and should be explored with a qualified clinical aesthetician who has been trained to treat these conditions. The results, while simple and low cost, can be quite impressive!

Emily Fritchey of Sunshine Botanicals is a Holistic Skin Therapist whose cutting-edge approach to dramatic skin transformation has made her a respected trend-setter among her peers in the field of aesthetics and cosmetic surgery. Emily is also an award-winning product formulator and expert on the use and application of herbal medicine and botanical skin treatments for aging and problem skin conditions.

Emily Fritchey of Sunshine Botanicals is a Holistic Skin Therapist whose cutting-edge approach to dramatic skin transformation has made her a respected trendsetter among her peers in the field of aesthetics and cosmetic surgery. Emily is also an award-winning product formulator and expert on the use and application of herbal medicine and botanical skin treatments for aging and problem skin conditions.