What is a Microdermabrasion Facial vs. A Microdermabrasion Treatment?

What is a Microdermabrasion Facial vs. a Microdermabrasion Treatment?

Le Petit Spa has launched their brand new Microdermabrasion treatment series on their facial web page.

But what is a Microdermabrasion Facial? What is a series? What is a treatment?

Guaranteed there is a Microdermabrasion treatment on our menu for you; this blog discusses the array of options available to Le Petit Spa clients.

Microdermabrasion Facial

Microdermabrasion is a method of exfoliation. So, when incorporating it into a facial, it takes the place of a regular method of exfoliation such as a scrub, a gommage or even a glycolic acid treatment.

The steps of a Microdermabrasion at Le Petit Spa are as follows:

1. Cleanse - to remove makeup and other superficial impurities on the surface of your skin.
2. Tone - Finishes the cleansing step and removes trace minerals left from tap water, left over makeup residue or residue from your cleanser; prepares the skin for deep cleansing.
3. Exfoliate - this is the Microdermabrasion part of this facial service. A gentle flow of aluminium oxide crystals gently removes any build up of dead skin cells, pigmentation, and impurities while a gentle vacuum suction removes the debris away from your skin.
4. Massage - Ah! The ultimate in relaxation. A gentle facial massage is performed to further stimulate lymph drainage (promoting drainage of excess fluids - like bags under the eyes!) and blood circulation.
5. Masque - Depending on your skin type and the skin conditions or results desired, a facial masque is applied and left on for 10 minutes to penetrate active ingredients deep into your skin.
6. Moisturizer - After the masque is removed, a moisturizer with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) will be applied to protect your freshly exfoliated skin from the sun.

This is a classic European Facial protocol and delivers the ultimate in relaxation and benefits to your skin.

This facial will not only exfoliate your skin, but deliver secondary benefits depending on the products chosen by your Esthetician such as:

• Moisturization (dry skin)


• Purifying and clarifying (oily skin)


• Soothing and rebalancing (sensitive skin)


• Anti-Aging (mature skin)

The Microdermabrasion Facial at Le Petit Spa is available to purchase in a package of three - but isn’t one facial enough?

Immediately following a facial, you will see results - but they will be minimal. To fully benefit from an investment in your skin a series of three to six treatments are recommended over a period of weeks to see the full potential of the facial. This is because your skin renews itself every 28 days - it will be after 28 days you will start to see improvement in the skin condition you are working towards curing.

Microdermabrasion Treatment

Le Petit Spa offers a Microdermabrasion Treatment which includes:

1. Cleanse and tone- to remove makeup and prep the skin for deeper cleansing (micro)
2. Microdermabrasion - Exfoliates the skin; removing built up dead skin, rough uneven patches and creating a smooth, flawless complexion.
3. SPF Moisturizer - The finishing step to protect your skin from the sun outside and should be worn every day after a micro treatment.

As you can see, this Microdermabrasion Treatment does not include many of the steps found in the Micro Facial: the masque and massage are not incorporated into this treatment.

The Microdermabrasion Treatment may be ideal for those looking for results only, and not so much be focused on receiving the relaxation benefits from a full European Facial; although, this treatment is done in a relaxing day spa environment.

This Micro Treatment may also be purchased in a series of six to receive full benefits. Depending on the skin conditions you would like to work towards curing (such as pigmentation and sun spots) a Le Petit Spa Esthetician will recommend the right amount of treatments for your particular skin.

Hopefully this blog has helped you understand the difference between the treatments that Le Petit Spa has to offer their prospective Microdermabrasion clients. Feel free to contact the spa should you have any further questions regarding Microdermabrasion or visit our facial web page.

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Skin Care Tips and Facts for Teens from Le Petit Spa

Teen Skin Care Tips from Le Petit Spa

Teen’s that come into the spa often want to know what product is best for their skin. Well, there isn’t one particular product that is best for anyone’s skin; we’d all be using it if there were.

What there is on the market is an array of confusing, and sometimes misleading choice of skin care out there for teens. All promise to deliver results quickly, and to get rid of their “embarrassing acne”.


Here are my tips to follow when picking teen skin care products as well as some interesting facts and tips about teen skin:

1. Look for products which contain Salicylic Acid - Found in most acne and teen skin lines, Salicylic Acid helps skin cells to shed more rapidly, preventing clogged pores. Shedding skin cells more rapidly helps acne improve as skin is unable to build up and clog pores and bacterial breeding grounds. Did you know Salicylic Acid is also found in aspirin because it has powerful anti - fever properties?

If you use products containing Salicylic Acid, make sure you wear a sunscreen outside to prevent irritation and burns from the sun.

2. Don’t use soap! Soap is alkaline, meaning that it is a bacteria friendly place, and when used on skin of any age, allows for the growth of bacteria. In order to protect itself, humans naturally have skin that is on the acidic side as acidity kills bacteria. As we grow from babies into teens, our skin becomes less acidic, therefore; encouraging the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.

It is therefore important to use a cleanser that is formulated to have a Ph level closer to the Ph level of healthy skin. Look for spa quality products; these are all formulated to contain Ph level’s close to that of human skin.

3. Wash your face twice a day - no more! Your skin produces oil (sebum) to protect itself from everyday aggressors like the sun, wind, pollution and bacteria. Over washing can cause skin to over up oil production. On teen skin, this makes more of a happy place for bacteria to breed and live in. If you find your skin shiny half way through the day, carry some oil absorbing sheets with you for a mid day oil slick clean up.

4. Be wary of the foam - Oily skin clients generally like cleansers that foam; it’s a mental game as when we see something foam, we naturally assume that it’s working really hard and doing a really good cleaning job. But! Additives like Sodium Laureth Sulfate (or laurel sulphate) which are detergents and a very inexpensive, very effective foaming agent, are used in personal care products such as shampoo, cleansers, toothpastes and soaps.

If you do have a favourite cleanser with one of these foaming agents in it, check to see how far up the ingredients list it is: The ingredients list on your product is in order of greatest amount of ingredient to least amount at the bottom. It’s best to have foaming agents near the bottom, meaning there are small trace amounts of it in the actual product.

5. Popping Pimples - I won’t deny it, I'm definately guilty of this bad little (and secret) habit, but if you’re going to do it, make sure you do it right! Popping a pimple (or pustule in esthetic terms) can cause damage to your skin and capillaries (mini blood vessels), causing bruising, scabs and bigger infections. Before you begin, ensure you have some rubbing alcohol around or a toner to disinfect the area after popping it:

· Use tissue to wrap around the tips of your fingers to prevent the spread of bacteria - ensure the tissue is over the tips of your nails too!

· Put pressure from one finger on each side of the pimple - press down into the skin, not towards the pimple yet.

· Once your fingers have put pressure on each side of the pimple, move your fingers towards the pimple, without lifting them off of your skin, so that your fingers more towards and “under” the pimple you want to extract.

· Keep applying pressure “under” the pimple; try from different angels if the infection does not come out the first time.

Now the gross part: When popping a pimple, you should get a hard “core” of infection out of the pore - this is the infection itself and to prevent any further infection should always come out when popping a pimple. If you have been successful in removing all of the infection, a clear liquid called lymph should follow with a bit of blood (lymph is what delivers nutrients to your skin).

If you do not think the pimple is ready to come, don’t pop it! It will only make matters worse.

After extracting the pimple, remember to swipe rubbing alcohol or a clarifying toner on the pimple.

6. Pillow Cases and Face Cloths - Depending on the severity of your acne, you should change your pillow cases and face cloths every couple of days or so. Try to keep long hair off of your face; especially if you use heavy conditioners.

7. Makeup - Even when I was a teen, I never went a day without makeup, for one, I wanted to cover my pimples, and two, I was scared of leaving my house without my makeup on. If this seems like you too, use makeup that is non-comedogenic: Comedones (in esthetic terms, means blackhead), so, products that are non-comedogenic won’t cause blackheads (or clog pores), and ensure that you wash it off properly every night before bed!

Le Petit Spa offers complimentary skin care analysis for clients wishing to find out more about skin care, answer any questions clients have, and offer advice to follow at home, contact Le Petit Spa to book yours today. Have beauty questions? Email me and I’ll post a reply in a future edition of this blog!

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April Service Promotion at Le Petit Spa

April Service Promotion of the Month

Le Petit Spa is featuring their Teen Facial service for the month of April at a promotional price of $60 ($70)

This facial will create a smooth, flawless complexion clear of blackheads, impurities and imperfections.

The Teen Facial at Le Petit Spa kills bacteria growth in the skin responsible for the growth of acne with a anti bacterial seaweed extract. A professional extraction of pimples and blackheads allows the skin to heal without any harmful effects.

A professional facial consisting of proper cleansing, toning, exfoliation, extractions of impurities and a final treatment cream to create skin that is has balanced oil secretions, hydrated and flawless.

Why is it important to have professional extractions done?

When you “pick” your zits at home, your fingers transfer bacteria from the zit to other areas of your face - creating the perfect setting for another pimple to flare up. An esthetician

An esthetician can remove blackheads and pimples from your skin, without even touching it or causing harm to your skin. They use an extractor that applies gentle pressure to the pore opening, and causes any dirt or trapped bacteria in the pore to come out - easy as butter! Very little pressure on the skin means no damage or tears in the surface of the skin.

Why have a facial once per month?

When we are young, our skin renews itself every 28 days; therefore, 28 days after your facial it will be the skin on the surface of your face that would have benefited the most from your facial service. Facial services also draw out impurities deep inside your skin, so ten to fourteen days after your facial you may experience a breakout - which is normal, your skin is just getting rid of a build up of impurities.

To maintain the results of your facial 28 days ago, you should continue a home care regime to deliver the same benefits of your facial to your skin between visits to the spa. A facial once per month will balance secretions, maintain optimal hydration levels in your skin and keep skin clean and healthy looking.

Which facial products are right for me?

It is difficult to decide on which products are right for your specific skin. With all of the choices out there, picking the right one is more difficult than ever. Le Petit Spa offers complimentary skin type analysis to help determine which products are right for your specific skin’s needs and concerns. Contact Le Petit Spa today to book your complimentary skin type analysis.

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to be the first to know about further exclusive in spa promotions, daily and monthly service promotions and new product launches. Have beauty questions? Email me with your beauty questions and look for your answer in a future edition of this blog!

"Count Down to Prom" Your Prom Makeup Bag Made Simple!

Your Prom Makeup Bag Made Simple.

Everything you need to keep your perfect look looking perfect!

Prom is probably going to be the second busiest formal day next to your wedding day. The frantic running around to get your hair done, you makeup done, pictures taken and all the formalities can leave even the most polished prom queen looking (and feeling) a little frazzled.

Make sure you’re ready for the big day by putting together an “emergency bag” to carry around with in your purse during prom:

1. Bobbie Pins: Your updo looks perfect now - but after a couple of hours of running here to there can cause your perfect updo to turn into a mess! Carry a few extra bobbie pins in your purse just incase.

2. Oil Blotting Papers: Excess oil on your skin will cause your makeup to come off half way through the day. Use oil blotting papers to absorb the excess oil whenever you feel you need it. I recommended Jane Iredale Oil Blotting Sheets which are made from 100% natural rice paper and work wonders in absorbing excess oil mid day.

3. Pressed Powder: This will also help to control oil during the day and keep you makeup in its place! Not to mention, it will make you complexion look for unified and flawless over your foundation. I like Jane Iredale Pressed Minerals - they come in an array of shades that match any skin tone and look completely flawless, plus they don’t clog pores and cause irritation.

4. Lipstick or Lipgloss: Whichever one you choose, keep it in your purse for touch ups. You’ll loose a lot of your color from all of the kisses you’ll be giving to proud relatives; plus, a lipgloss will keep your lips moisturized and looking plump. Jane Iredale Pure Gloss for Lips or Pure Moist Lip color use organic vegetable based oils, so they’re healthy for you and the environment.

5. Blush or Bronzer - Keep your cheek bones highlighted with blush or bronzer. Not only will they complete your look, but your cheek bones will stand out in photos.

Of course, the best possible makeup you could wear is a healthy skin. Below are some tips to get your skin looking gorgeous before grad and prom:

1. Drink Water! Drink at least 8 cups of water a day to hydrate your skin from the inside out and help to get rid of any built up toxins in your skin.

2. Healthy Diet: Avoid sugar at all costs and extremely fatty foods. These can up set your skin and cause blemishes. Focus on eating a healthy diet of fruits, grains, vegetables, lean proteins and seafood not just around prom, but all the time! Of course, treats are unavoidable, just consume in moderation. What you feed your body on the inside is going to show it’s face on the outside so keep this in mind!

3. Clean pillow cases every couple of days to avoid sleeping on the same bacteria. This will prevent any further blemishes on your skin; as well, sleep with your hair off your face. Natural oil in your hair can also cause blemishes on your skin.

4. Clean your face with new face clothes every day especially if you do suffer from acne. Just because your face cloth gets wet during the cleansing process doesn’t mean it’s clean; it keeps bacteria from your face and stores it as a breeding ground for more bacteria. If you don’t suffer from acne, use the face cloth in the morning, then at night before bed and use a fresh one the next morning.

For more information on skin care for teens read more of our “Count Down to Prom” web blogs on our “Spa Talk” blog.

Have beauty questions? Ask me anything and everything to do with skin care, email me with your questions and I’ll post an answer on an edition of this blog!

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The Nitty Gritty of the Teen Facial - What are they? How does it work? And what happens?

The nitty gritty of teen facials - what are they? And how do they work?

One of the most relaxing, rewarding spa treatments available for teens today is clouded in questions like what happens and how is it done? And so on and so on…

Things really do not need to be that complicated. This blog demystifies the spa mystery known as “the Teen Facial”…

Arriving at a spa you’ve never been or, or arriving for a treatment that you’ve never had can be a little nerve wracking to say the least; especially when it’s a facial treatment: You’re in a small treatment room for a whole hour with a person you don’t even know! Mix that with not knowing what to expect, and a trip to the spa doesn’t seem so relaxing anymore.

I’ll get to know you, you get to know me!

When you first arrive at Le Petit Spa, you’ll be greeted with a friendly “hello” by the girls at the front desk. They will hand you a simple consultation form with some personal and not-so-personal questions for you to answer.

These are to do with allergies, medication you may be on, your desired results you want to achieve with your treatment, and any medical conditions (like low blood pressure) that may influence your treatment. After filling out the form, it is given to the esthetician who will be performing the treatment on you. These forms are kept completely confidential between you and the esthetician.

Let’s Get Naked!

Ok…before you start running for the door, let me explain. After you have checked in and filled out the form, you will be taken to the women’s (or men’s if you’re a man!) change room to get changed into a comfy, warm terry towel robe and a fuzzy pair of slippers. The change rooms are completely private! So don’t worry!

You will be instructed to remove jewellery, your pants, your shirt and your bra! WHAT? During your facial you will be under a heavy down duvet and if you keep your clothes on, you’ll get too hot! Plus, it allows you to relax a little more when you’re at a comfortable temperature.

Of course, these are only suggestions - do what feels comfortable for you! If you prefer to leave your clothes on, than please do! Just remember - there’s always a chance of product landing somewhere on your clothing - so it’s always better to remove to avoid ruining your favourite shirt!

Relax!

Before changing into your robe and slippers, you’ll be shown the “relaxation lounge”. This is where you can sit and enjoy cookies, chocolate and tea or water before and after your facial service. During your time in here, your esthetician is usually preparing any last minute details for your service and making sure everything is absolutely perfect just for you! So take your time, forget about your worries - you’re in good hands!

Come with me…

After everything is in place for your facial, your esthetician will come and get you from the relaxation lounge. She will introduce herself to you; show you the bathroom (in case you drank too much water in the lounge!) and lead you to your own private sanctuary - your very own private treatment room.

Your Private Sanctuary Awaits!

When you arrive in your treatment room you will see a bed, a sink…a counter…and not much else! She will confirm your service “You are here today for the Teen Facial service, which is about an hour” and she then will instruct you that she will step out of the room, you may hang your gown up on the back of the door (when she is out of the room) and you are to climb into your treatment bed, under the duvet. There will be a heating pad on the bed - if it is too warm let her know! She wants you to be comfortable during your service.

After she leaves the room for you to change, she will re-enter after a few minutes making sure she has given you privacy to un-robe and get under the covers. Remember! It’s only a suggestion that you remove the robe - if you don’t feel comfortable being naked under the covers you may keep the robe on!

During your facial service you will be under the covers the whole time! At no time will your esthetician be able to see more than your collar bone, neck and face (and maybe your arms if you decide to keep them out).

Consultation - The nitty gritty of your skin!

Your esthetician re-enters the room and gets to work right away! She will begin by sitting down and going over any concerns she may have from your consultation form, “I see that you have low blood pressure, do you get dizzy when you lay down for too long?”…

She will also ask you what you’ve been using on your skin at home, what your skin care habits are, and what you want to achieve from having a facial service today.

This is your chance to ask a professional skin care therapist any questions you may have - and you thought only movie stars got this kind of treatment!

After your every question is answered, she will explain all steps of the Teen facial to you in detail from beginning to end - ask her more questions - that’s what she’s there for!

Cool cotton compresses are then gently placed over your eyes to protect them from the magnifying lamp.

Magnifying Lamp? Yikes!

Yep, this can be intimidating for even the most experienced spa princess! A magnifying lamp magnifies (duh!) your skin so that the esthetician can see things in and on your skin that may not be visible to the naked eye (like blackheads, pimples, zits, brown spots).

This also helps her make a decision as to what skin care products are going to work best for your skin needs and concerns. You may feel her poke (gently), prod, and squeeze your face (gently of course!) but she needs to examine your skin on a very close, intimate level - she’s not judging you, this is her job to figure your skin out!

Goodbye for a little while!

Your esthetician will then ask if you have any more questions. If not, she’s outta there! Just kidding! She will leave the room only for a few minutes to go and get the products she has decided to use on your skin.

Return of the …

Skin care therapist! Exciting eh? She has the products for your facial in hand and she’s ready to go! Are you? One last chance for any questions before your facial begins. Of course, you may ask questions at any time, but it’s kinda hard to relax when your mind is racing with questions, so ask now!

So there you have it! That’s what happens before your Teen Facial at Le Petit Spa…but what happens during? Read about the in-depth steps of our teen facial and what happens during, plus some useful tips on keeping your skin clear of pimples at home on our “Count Down to Prom” spa blog…

Want more beauty and skin care tips? Have more questions about what goes on in a day spa? Sign up for our monthly newsletter to find out about monthly service promotions (like the teen facial, on promotion for April) and special events.

Or, email me with your questions and I'll post a reply in a future edition of this blog!

"Count Down to Prom!" Gift Card Ideas to make Prom Easy!

The perfect gift for prom

Looking for the perfect gift for the Teen graduating this year in your life? Le Petit Spa offers solutions for any teen this prom year and a number of services and gift cards to help her or him get ready for Prom!

Whether its services you’re looking for to get ready for prom, or services to enjoy after prom, Le Petit Spa offers affordable solutions.

Teen Facial Gift Card $74.20 (includes tax)

A more clarified, glowing, smooth complexion is achieved; oil secretions are balanced and the skin is comfortable. The Le Petit Spa Teen Facial uses the Phytomer Oligopur line from France. Oligopur uses a seaweed extract that actually inhibits the growth of bacteria in the skin. Once the bacteria can’t grow like usual - acne and breakouts are stopped in their tracks!

This facial includes:

• Cleanse
  
• Tone
  
• Exfoliation of the Skin


• Extractions of impurities such as blackheads and pimples.
  
• Masque
  
• Treatment Day Cream.

Or customize a gift card for your special teen! Suggested combinations of services to use before Prom:

1. Teen Facial and Makeup Lesson.

Your Teen will learn the fundamentals of proper skin care and makeup application with this package specifically for use one month before Prom and Graduation. This facial will start the healing process of blemishes and breakouts before prom. A mineral makeup application will show your teen how to properly apply makeup and choose shades that will compliment her skin tone, color and unique style.

• Teen Facial $70
  
• Makeup Lesson$60
  
• Total: $137.80 (includes tax)

2. Body Bronzing, Eyelash Extensions and Express Manicure and Pedicure.

Specifically to be used one week or a few days before prom or graduation, this combination of services will add the finishing touches for your teens dream prom look. Body Bronzing one week before prom or grad will allow the color to set and achieve a natural look, eyelash extensions a week before will allow your teen to get used to them, and an express manicure and pedicure will add the finishing touches to her hands and feet.

• Body Bronzing $50
  
• Eyelash Extensions$60
  
• Express Mani $25
  
• Express Pedicure $38
  
• Total: $183.38 (includes tax)

3. Manicure, Pedicure, Makeup Application, Eyelash Extensions.

Specifically for use on the day of prom, a makeup application, eyelash extension and finishing touches on the hands and feet will complete the perfect prom and grad look.

• Makeup Application $45
  
• Eyelash Extensions $60
  
• Classic Pedicure $58
  
• Classic Manicure $35
  
• Total: $209.88 (includes tax)

These packages can be conveniently put on to a Le Petit Spa Gift Card.

To learn more about Teen Skin care and Le Petit Spa teen spa packages, visit our teen spa services webpage.

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to be the first to know about in-spa promotions, gift with purchases and special event and monthly service promotions. Email me with your beauty questions and look for your answer in a future blog!

"Count Down to Prom!" One Month to Go...

Countdown to Prom!

One Month to go before your big night!

Prom and graduation is a special time in a young girl’s life. And it’s never too early to start thinking about your skin; after all, it is your body’s largest organ.

In your teens, your skin goes through an extreme period of change. New levels of hormones are introduced and this also causes breakouts along the forehead, jaw bone…well, basically anywhere they feel like showing their ugly heads!

You’ve got one month before prom and graduation to get your skin looking its absolute best for your special night!

This blog talks about the how to prevent breakouts and how to achieve clear, beautiful flawless looking skin.

What causes pimples?

Zits and pimples (correct name pustules) are an infection in your pilosebaceous unit (which consists of your pore, hair follicle, and an oil gland). Pustules are formed when dirt and bacteria become trapped in your skin, fester and become what’s known as a zit(infection).

What’s the best way to prevent zits and acne?

Cleansing your skin is the most important thing you can do to prevent future breakouts on your skin. Using a cleansing regime of a Cleanser, Toner and Moisturizer (yes! Even moisturizer on oily skin!) will keep your skin perfectly balanced and clear of imperfections.

Why use a Cleanser, toner and moisturizer?

All three steps are equally important and here’s why:

Cleanser: properly removes makeup, excess oil and bacteria trapped on your skin that is responsible for causing breakouts. When bacteria and dirt get together and have a party on the surface of your skin, guess what happens? Zits are suddenly being given out as party favours!

Toner: There’s a lot of misconception about toners. Rumour has it they dry your skin out and prevent breakouts that way – Not true! In fact, there’s a toner out there for every skin type under the sun.

Toners complete the cleansing process by removing water residue, minerals that can upset your skin’s Ph level, and prepare your skin for the next step – moisturizer.

Moisturizers are important for all skin types - even oily skin! Know why? A moisturizer keeps your skin balanced – hydrated where needed, and balances oil where needed.

Tips for preventing breakouts at home:

1. Change bedding frequently – pillow cases should be changed every three days or so – sleep on one side – flip – sleep on the other – wash!

2. Don’t Touch! Your face, that is! Touching spreads bacteria and transfers more bacteria onto your skin causing pimples and zits to appear.

3. Don’t pick! (your zits and pimples) If you do not extract a pimple correctly, it can become more infected and spread the bacteria around your face, causing more zits to appear.

4. Don’t over wash your skin - Over washing your skin strips your skin of its natural oil barrier which helps protect your skin. When you over wash and strip this barrier off, your skin ups its oil production - causing more acne and problems for you in the long run. Wash only twice a day - morning and night to ensure you keep your skin happy.

What Does a Teen Facial involve?

A teen facial at any day spa will feature a line of products specifically formulated for teen skin.

Le Petit Spa uses Phytomer Oligopur line for oily, combination and problem skin and features this line in their Signature Teen Facial.

Oligopur uses a marine algae that stops the bacteria growth responsible for causing breakouts in the skin. When bacteria does not have a suitable environment to grow in, it cannot fester and stay in the skin to become an infection (zit).

The Le Petit Spa Teen Facial includes these main steps:

Cleanse - to remove excess oil, dirt and makeup

Tone - to complete the cleansing process, return skin to its natural Ph level, and remove residue and minerals that can build up in skin from tap water.

Exfoliate - removes dead skin from blocking pores and allows impurities to be removed from skin in the next step.

Extractions - Using a metal tool called an “extractor”, the esthetician will gently put pressure around the opening of each pore and any impurities or dirt (black heads) will easily come out. This immediately gives your complexion new light and clarity.

Mask - The mask is a treatment that is for immediate results. Masks contain active ingredients to treat the skin of its problem (dryness, oiliness or a combination)

Moisturizer - To hydrate your skin where needed and to absorb oil where needed, a moisturizer will balance your skin’s oil secretions and help keep your skin perfectly balanced.

Considering booking a facial? When you want clear skin for a special occasion the best way to have one is in a series: One month before the occasion, two weeks before the occasion and then, if needed, a day or so before the occasion, here’s why:

One month to go:

Facials stimulate your skin on a deep level. Any bacteria that is trapped in your skin will come to the surface (as a pimple) after about 10 days or so.

When we’re young, our skin renews itself every 28 days; therefore, the full results of the facial will not show on the surface of your skin until the deepest layers of your skin have come to the top layer of skin (28 days after your facial)

Two Weeks Before:

Having a second facial two weeks after your first facial (and no less than 2 weeks before the occasion) will help clear any breakouts that resulted from your first facial. An esthetician will be able to extract any pimples or blackheads that have come to the surface of the skin after your first facial.

One week to 2 days before the occasion:

This facial will help to clear any last minute breakouts that you may be experiencing from your last facial or any that have just decided to show up to say “Hi”. If you’ve followed a series of treatments, your skin should be glowing with clarity and be free of most impurities.

If you’re unsure of which skin type you have, come into Le Petit Spa for a complimentary skin type analysis. A Le Petit Spa esthetician will be able to help you determine which skin type you have, and which products would be right for your skin types and problems.

She will also be able to answer any private questions you may have about your skin and how to take care of it.

Skin analysis’ are done in your own private treatment room and you have as much or as little time with the esthetician as you need to ask her your questions.

To contact Le Petit Spa to book a free skin type analysis, click here. If you have questions about beauty, makeup or skin care, or questions about spa services, email me and I’ll post your answer in a future edition of this blog!

Star Treatment at Le Petit Spa

The Le Petit Spa Signature Facial Treatment

Looking for the star treatment in Vancouver? It’s found at Le Petit Spa in their Signature Facial treatment.

This facial is different for everybody. Using the professional product line, Phytomer, each product and step is customized specifically for your skin type, needs and concerns. You esthetician will first do a thorough skin analysis to determine which skin conditions (i.e. dryness, acne) you may or may not have. Based on your client consultation form, she will then discuss with you your specific concerns and what you would like to target during your service.

During your facial service, you’ll be tucked into a Le Petit Spa duvet while soft candle light and whispers of French Lavender dance in the air.

The Le Petit Spa Signature Facial Treatment starts off with a relaxation back massage and is followed by cleansing, toning, exfoliation of your skin, extractions (if needed), a facial massage, a treatment masque with hand massage while masqueing and a final treatment cream. Remember – all of these steps feature products that are picked out just for you! Now that’s the star treatment!

What’s different about this facial compared to other Le Petit Spa Facial treatments?

Other Le Petit Spa facial treatments are set protocols, therefore; when you come into Le Petit Spa for, let’s say, our Phytomer Hydrating Facial, we will use hydrating products only on you. The Signature Facial allows room for customization of products for different skin conditions, cheeks a little dry? But your nose and forehead are oily? We can treat both areas with different specialized products in the Signature Facial.

How long will the results last?

As your skin renews itself every 28 days, the full results will not show themselves until 28 days but immediately after your facial you will notice a difference. Your skin will be smoother, clarity is immediately improved, and conditions such as dryness or acne may be less apparent.

How do I keep the results I see from my facial?

Coming in for a facial every 28 days is a great way to care for your skin – but if you go home and wash your face with soap and water, and don’t moisturize, what’s the point? Using a proper home care routine with products specifically prescribed for your skin type is the best way to maintain the results from a facial. And guess what? Professional products are not anymore expensive than, let’s say, Lancôme, Clinique, or any other department/drugstore brand. Plus, they contain about 50 to 90% more active ingredients in them than drugstore brands contain.

Why do we hear more about department store brands than professional brands?

Professional skin care lines are only sold in salons and spas by professionals who have been educated and thoroughly trained in using them. It is a smaller, more targeted market than drugstore and department store brands reach out to. Department stores market their lines with flashy ad campaigns with expensive models and glitzy ads. Professional lines invest the money that they earn from sales of the line on research and development on the line. Department store lines invest the money earned on the next ad campaign.

Do I need to use the whole line to benefit?

Absolutely not! The three most important products you should use is a cleanser to properly rid your skin of dirt, excess oil and makeup, a toner to remove residue from your tap water or left over makeup and to prep the skin for the next manitory step: Moisturizer is crucial to skin health – even for oilier skin types. Moisture is crucial to skin health for a number of reasons:

• Helps retain skin’s moisture levels and prevents premature aging.
  


• Creates a healthy Ph balance
  


• When your skin is balanced it is moisturized where needed and, in combination skin, oil is controlled.

Your Le Petit Spa esthetician will be able to sit down with you and talk about any questions that you may have about your specific skin concerns, needs and problems. Skin consultations are complimentary and are available 7 days a week at Le Petit Spa.

What happens during a skin consultation?

You will be taken into your very own private treatment room where your esthetician will take a look at your skin under a magnifying lamp.

This helps her to see your skin at a very high level. Your pores, pigmentation, skin texture is very highly detailed under this lamp and allows her to make the best choice when it comes to which type of skin products you should be using. This skin consultation is confidential between you and your esthetician, so feel free to express any concerns that you have. Estheticians are there to help you with your skin concerns and help you feel comfortable with the choices that you have made.

To find out how to contact Le Petit Spa, click here. Sign up for our monthly newsletter to be the first to know about special events, monthly and daily promotions, and new product launches. Or email me with your beauty and/or spa questions and look for the answer in a future blog!

Count Down to Graduation begins for Teens of Vancouver

Countdown to Prom!

The countdown to Prom and Graduation has started at the four month mark for teens throughout Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.

Finding the perfect dress, shoes and accessories all top the “to-do” list before the big day, and having the perfect makeup and blemish free skin also goes along with the perfect look.

This blog talks about prom makeup, eyelash extensions and other spa services just for teens to get ready for their big day!

Teen Facial

Did you know? Women start to age around the age of 15 now-a-days because of the decrease in our ozone, pollution and other outside factors? The way you treat your skin today dramatically affects the way your skin will look in your 20’s, 30’s and 40’s.

A teen facial will not only care for your skin now, it will help you achieve balanced, purified, clear skin for graduation and create a smooth base for perfect makeup application. The better hydrated and balanced your skin is, the better your makeup will look and be easier to apply…Read more about Le Petit Spa’s Teen Facial.

Makeup

Smooth, flawless skin can be yours for graduation! All it takes is professional grade makeup with some tips from the pro’s at Le Petit Spa. Using Jane Iredale pure mineral makeup, a Le Petit Spa esthetician will consult and work with you to create a look that compliments your style… Read more about Le Petit Spa’s Makeup services.

Eyelash Extensions

For something a little different and fun, why not try a set of Le Petit Spa eyelash extensions? They last two to four weeks and frame your eyes to give you a “bambi” –like look that all of young Hollywood seems to be sporting; Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton are big fans! …Read more about Le Petit Spa Eyelash Extensions.

Nail Art Pedicure

Feeling flirty? Why not express it on your toes? A Le Petit Spa Nail Art Pedicure for your special day will be sure to give you a “perfect ten”, plus all Nail Art at Le Petit Spa is unique for you, no two designs are exactly alike...Read more about Nail Art Pedicure…Looking for something to do with your closest girlfriends before grad? Le Petit Spa pedicure parties allow you to celebrate the good times with up to 5 of your closest friends…Read more about spa parties.

Have you heard about Le Petit Spa’s Student Discount? Upon showing your student ID, you will receive 10% off your visit with us*

*services such as massage or packages not applicable.

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to be the first to know about in-spa promotions, daily and monthly service promotions or special events. Have a beauty question or spa service question? Email me with your questions and look for your answer in a future blog!

Teens and Tweens at Le Petit Spa receive special rewards...

Student discount at Le Petit Spa for Teens and Tweens of today!

Students are some of the busiest people in today’s world. They need special attention and pampering just like everyone else.

When you show your student ID at Le Petit Spa, you receive 10% off facials, pedicures, manicures or other esthetic services (excluding massage/reflexology services)

Read on to discover the many services at Le Petit Spa to help you look your best while hitting the books:

1. Teen or Signature Facial

Depending on your age, skin type and skin conditions, one of our facial specialists will customize a facial exactly for your specific needs and skin concerns. Using one of our top-of-the-line skin care lines, Phytomer, your skin will be expertly taken care of, signs of breakouts and excess shine will be reduced, and you will receive a complimentary take-home sheet of recommended products that will help you keep the results of your facial at home. Read more…

2. Nail Art Pedicure

Who doesn’t like cute little toes! A Le Petit Spa Nail art pedicure will have your toes looking their absolute best. One of our estheticians will create a design specifically for you, for toes that scream “a perfect ten”. Read more…

3. Eyelash Extensions

For graduation, weddings, the school dance or any special occasion, a set of Le Petit Spa Eyelash Extensions will perfectly frame your eyes, giving them a “pop” that every young starlette is sporting in Hollywood these days. Read more…

For more information about any of these services, contact Le Petit Spa.

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to be the first to know about further exclusive promotions and events, new product launches or gift with purchase offers or email me with your beauty questions or concerns and look for your answer in a future blog!

Le Petit Spa - What is Microdermabrasion? Benefits and Skin Types

Microdermabrasion is one of the hottest corrective treatments on the market today!

Microdermabrasion is a method of exfoliation that uses a gentle flow of crystals to exfoliate the upper layer of your skin. This method of exfoliation is powerful enough to diminish the look of fine lines, wrinkles and scars left behind by acne, but is non-invasive and will not cause any trauma to your skin. There is no “down time” or recovery time needed after a treatment and you will be able to resume your daily tasks same day as treatment.

The benefits of a microdermabrasion treatment are:

Skin is exfoliated, leaving texture renewed and refined.
Pigmentation is lightened
Acne scars become less visible over time

Microdermabrasion has been used in physicians and dermatologists offices for years and is now starting to be used in day spas across the US and Canada.

What is the difference between professional microdermabrasion treatments and the systems sold in drug stores?

The microdermabrasion systems sold in drug stores are different in one very crucial way. When you receive a microdermabrasion treatment from a professional, the system uses micro-crystals that are gently blown onto your skin to exfoliate, then sucked away with a vacuum action that also removes black heads and other dead skin debris. The drug store systems that we are seeing more of now a days is manual, you have to do the scrubbing to get the exfoliating action.

The crystals used in the drug store brands are the same as professional use, but there is not vacuum action, therefore; dead skin debris and impurities such as black heads are left in and on your skin and may lead to further breakouts in the future.

Microdermabrasion is perfect for the following skin types and conditions:

· Mature skin – the skin is tightened and firm

• Thick or dull skin – oxygen is delivered to your skin, resulting in a better cell turnover for younger looking skin
  


• Anyone needing a throughout exfoliation
  


• Pigmentation or age spots – lightens brown spots
  


• Oily skin and problem skin* *excludes acneic skin – oil production is controlled, breakouts may decrease

Have questions about microdermabrasion? Email me with your beauty question and I'll answer your question in a future blog!

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to be the first to know about in-spa promotions, special events, product launches, and daily and monthly service promotions.

Check out Le Petit Spa's daily facial promotions: Facial Fridays and Signature Sundays.

Le Petit Spa - Guinot Double Peeling Glycolic Facial

Guinot Double Peeling Glycolic Facial - for the month of December try this facial for an introductory service promotion of only $80 (reg $90)

Guinot’s New Double Peeling Glycolic Facial is a simple, yet result orientated service that will leave your skin visibly more radiant and bright after the first treatment.

Utilizing 7 unique products from this new facial treatment and using key active ingredients such as Glycolic Acid, malic acid, pure Vitamin C and fruit acids, this facial works towards three main objectives:

• Exfoliate Skin – Double Peeling action using Glycolic and Fruit Acids work to remove dead cells; smart technology distinguishes between living and dead skin cells preventing damage to living cells.

• Regenerate – Serum enriched with 56 cellular nourishing ingredients, including Passion Fruit Flower smoothes out the epidermis, diminishing wrinkles and fine lines. Hydrocyte complex leaves skin nourished and hydrated.

• Clarify – Using a highly active pure Vitamin C mask, the skin is left visibly brighter, more luminous. Because Vitamin C limits the production of Melanin, this treatment also works towards diminishing brown pigmentation on the surface of the skin.
  

Did you know? Vitamin C stimulates the synthesis of collagen and elastin as well as regenerates elastic fibres that are responsible for preventing wrinkles and fine lines. Using Vitamin C will leave fine lines and wrinkles diminished; suppleness and firmness are restored to the skin.


This facial treatment uses all natural ingredients derived from apples (malic acid) citiric acid, grapes (tartaric acid) and glycolic acid (sugar cane). This facial utilizes a combination of highly active ingredients, only used in professional services and is highly efficient:

• Visible results after one treatment
• Pleasant to receive, will not irritate skin
• Can be easily customized for each client for their own skin care needs.
  

This facial is best suited for:

• Thick skin
• Dull, tired skin
• Brown spots
• Dehydration, fine lines
• Skin showing visible signs of aging
  

This treatment can be performed in customized treatment plans over time to combat:

• Radiance Booster; complexion is dull.
• Lightening; Skin complexion is tired, dull, asphyxiated. May have pigmentation spots that client wishes to have lightened.
• Anti-Pigmentation – Pigmentation spots are evident on the surface of the skin.
  

Please contact Le Petit Spa for information on the right treatment plan for your skin type.

Interested in receiving this facial? Come into Le Petit Spa for a complementary skin care analysis to find out which treatment plan or skin care products are right for you.

Check out our Facial Fridays Promotions and our Signature Sundays Promotions, both days offering the Lower Mainland promotional prices on Le Petit Spa facial services.

Sign up for our monthly e-newsletter to be the first to know about special events, weekly and monthly service promotions and in spa promotional offers. Or email me with your beauty questions or concerns and look for your answer in a future blog!