"Sun" Proving Your Skin

Everyone is becoming more and more aware of damages that can be caused by sun over-exposure. Some of the consequences are melanoma, hyper and hypo-pigmentation, age spots, premature aging, dehydration, as well as many others.
Here are a few tips to help you protect yourself:

• Always use a sunscreen. A minimum of SPF 30 is recommended for the face, and 20 for the body. Remember to reapply every two hours or so. The sunscreen becomes ineffective within two hours as it is absorbed into the body. If you are worried about congestion, wear mineral make-up instead. Just remember to avoid minerals with fillers like talc.


• Cover up or stay in the shade. Avoid being in the sun for a prolonged period of time. Be aware that some articles of clothing still allow UV rays to penetrate.


• If you do get sunburned, immediately apply a soothing lotion which contains aloe or tea tree to relieve the discomfort. Reapply frequently to keep your skin hydrated and to avoid peeling.


• If you don't want to risk the sun but want the color, try a bronzing cream. They are easier to use than you think. Make sure you exfoliate first; apply a relatively thin layer and massage in. Gently buff off areas like elbows or knees to avoid having darker areas. It is better to use a self-tanner that has an instant bronzer, so you know where you have put it. Make sure to wash your hands well after!

Wrinkle Prevention

Has your skin recovered from the cold weather yet? Are the fine lines look even more noticeable than ever under the sun?

Here are some useful tips for preventing wrinkles:

• Clean your face thoroughly twice a day
• Exfoliate to get rid of dead skin cells at least twice a week
• Avoid direct exposure to sunshine
• Wear products with minimum SPF 15 all the time (even when it's cloudy)
• Have facials regularly to help regenerate and circulate your skin
• Keep a healthy lifestyle with proper diet and exercise
• Drink lots water
  

May we recommend the following facial treatments at Le Petit Spa?

• Microdermabrasion Facial Treatment
• Phytomer Anti-Aging Facial
• Phytomer Hydrating Facial
• Guinot Hydradermie Facial

To help you better decide which facial is for you, contact us now at 604.224.4314.

Skin Cancer Facts and Safe Tanning Tips

Did you know? 1 in 3 Caucasians will develop skin cancer in their lifetime?

Another scary fact is that just one blistering sunburn in your child hood more than doubles a person’s chances for developing melanoma later in life.

Do you know in which population skin cancer is most deadly?

Populations with dark skin have the highest mortality rate when it comes to skin cancer because in these populations it usually goes undetected for longer.

No one is safe when it comes to the sun.

But, skin cancer is probably the most preventable cancer out there. By taking a few pro-cautions each day can save your life - literally.

Forms of Skin Cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer:

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma- The most common form of skin cancer. Basal Cells are the cells that line the deepest layer of the epidermis (outer most layer of the skin). This form of skin cancer has a low rate of metastasis (the spread of cancer from its original site) and is usually not life threatening.

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma - The second most common form of skin cancer. Squamous cells are the cells that compose most of your epidermis. Most cases of SCC are not serious; however, when over looked, this form of skin cancer is harder to treat and can spread to other areas of the body. When this happens, the results are often fatal.

3. Melanoma - The most serious and most deadly form of skin cancer. However, when found and treated early, it is nearly 100% curable. This cancer is not the most common, but causes the most deaths as it easily spreads throughout the body.

This form of skin cancer originates in your melanocytes (the cells that produce pigment color in our hair, skin and eyes. This form of cancer usually is brown or black and can appear in any area of the body - even areas that may not see any sun (like the bottoms of your feet, or near or around your unmentionables). Melanomas can also be skin coloured, pink, red, purple, blue or white in color as well.

People that have a high number of moles on their skin are at more of a risk of developing this type of skin cancer.

So what can you do to avoid developing skin cancer?

1. I know this has been drilled into your head since you were a child but here it is again: Wear a SPF every day! Even on cloudy overcast days. UVA and UVB rays cause mutation in your skin cells - an abnormal amount of skin cell mutations and you have skin cancer!

This is the easiest way to protect yourself every day from over exposure from the sun’s harmful rays.

2. Avoid tanning beds. There is no such thing as a safe tanning bed. There are many out there that claim that their rays are not as harmful as the sun’s; this is because tanning beds usually don’t cause your skin to burn. But tanning your skin causes just as much damage to your skin. And plus, you’re basically laying in a microwave - the radiation from the tanning bed passes through your skin and potentially into your blood stream…need I say more?

3. Make an appointment with your doctor. Have moles? Maybe they haven’t changed shape or color, but making an appointment to have your body checked over for anything suspicious is a good idea. Remember, when it comes to skin cancer, the earlier that it is detected, the better.

If you do have moles that have changed shape and color, you must go in to have even the slightest changes looked at by your Doctor; even if it’s not a huge change in appearance - do yourself a favour and bring it to your Doctors attention.

4. Check your family history. If a first degree relative of yours (your mother, father or siblings) has had Melanoma you are 50 % more likely to develop the disease yourself. Even if it was a grandma, grandpa, aunt or uncle, you are still at an increased risk of developing melanoma, although not as great.

How big of a SPF should I wear every day? A Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 for fair skin should be worn every day. However; no matter if your SPF is a 60 or a 4, you need to apply it often to receive full protection benefits.

Golden Skin

Who doesn’t like a golden glow? I know I do but being a natural redhead I have pale skin even in the warmest sunniest months.

And I don’t tan - I burn! My risk for developing skin cancer in my life time is pretty good. Two years ago my dad was diagnosed with Basal Cell Carcinoma. Even though this is the least deadly form of skin cancer the words “dad” and “cancer” in the same sentence is one of the scariest things to hear.

But it’s not uncommon: skin cancer is the #1 form of cancer for men over the age of 50. When my dad was young, the effects of the sun were generally unknown. He worked long hours outside without sun protection and now his life has been threatened by it.

My solution to get a golden glow

Not only do I get all of my moles and skin irregularities checked out every couple of months by my doctor, I wear a sunscreen every day and avoid the sun as much as possible. And, I apply a self tanning treatment so I can still walk around with a golden-goddess-glow.

I recommend Guinot Auto Bronze: Self Tanning Cream. Using a natural source of sugar, that when in contact with oxygen, tints your skin to a natural golden glow. And, it goes on with a tint, so you can see where you’ve applied it.

Applying this can be pretty tricky by yourself; especially if you don’t know how to properly apply a self tanning cream. The Guinot Body Bronzing treatment at Le Petit Spa will leave you with an even, golden glow, its $50 and will last about a week.

This is a good way to start out your “fake” tan; by having a professional apply your first application and then you can take it from there by applying the tanning cream yourself to build up to the desired darkness you want. Plus, you can learn some tips on how to properly apply a self tanning cream from your esthetician.

Make your self-tanning-cream tan last longer:

1. Moisturize to prevent dry skin from developing and sloughing off your tan.

2. Exfoliate before applying self tanning cream, and moisturize your entire body before applying your self tanning cream.

3. Wear loose clothing when applying these products and if you can, stay naked for about half an hour after applying these products.

I hope these tips and facts about skin cancer will help you make this summer your safest summer yet! For more information on our body bronzing treatment visit our tanning web page

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Facts and stats for this blog found at:
http://www.skincancer.org/skincancer-facts.php

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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Have beauty questions? Email me with them and I’ll post an answer in a future addition of this blog as well as email you the answer personally!

Anti-Aging Skin Care Tips For First Signs Of Aging

Preventative Anti-Aging Skin Care tips

I turned 24 in the middle of April and with it came a mix of emotions…excited about the future, feeling a little frightened that I’m now in my mid 20’s and reminiscent about the past.

But, the scariest thing I’ve noticed are the fine lines on my forehead and the smile lines I now have on my once smooth, perfect skin.

Lucky me, a natural redhead, my skin is genetically destined to age quicker as I have thin, naturally oil-dry skin.

So, with this in mind I busted out my first anti-aging product last night. A product specifically for preventing and slowing down the aging process in skin showing initial signs of aging, or from the age of 25 years and older.

My choice? Phytomer Ogenage Initial. It’s a light weight emulsion for the 1st signs of aging.

The main ingredient in this nourishing but-not-heavy emulsion is a rich oil from a marine based algae which delays and combats the first signs of aging. It is highly repairing and nourishing and feels extremely light on the skin.

My regular moisturizer that I’ve been presently using isn’t getting rid of my fine lines anymore, I applied this emulsion last night after cleansing my skin…and my fine lines vanished! This morning I woke and immediately checked my skin; my fine lines are still there but less visible! I’m immediately impressed.

What is an emulsion?

Skin care companies use the term “emulsion” and the word “cream” when naming a moisturizer. The difference in the two terms is the actual texture of the product. An “emulsion” will be a more liquid feeling product; be extremely light and not as ‘heavy’ feeling as a cream. A “cream” on the other hand is going to have a thicker, creamier texture and feel more ‘heavy’ on the skin.

“Emulsion vs. Cream”?

When should you use an emulsion? When should you use a cream? Although Phytomer also offers an Ogenage Initial Cream for the 1st signs of aging, I picked the Emulsion for a number of reasons:

• The emulsion from this line is for normal to combination skin vs. the cream for normal to dry skin.


• Summer is almost here: I picked the emulsion because the light texture will be more suitable for skin in the hot summer months.


• It will moisturize in the summer without feeling greasy because of its light texture.


• My skin is slightly oilier in the summer so my pores won’t get clogged when using an emulsion instead of a heavier cream textured product.

Although I wish “Youth in a bottle” was on the market, keeping my skin young looking for as long as possible also comes from lifestyle choices and other beauty routines.

Here are some of the things I do outside of the spa to keep my skin healthy:

1. I won’t drink coffee past 12 pm now; I immediately start drinking my 8 glasses of water to keep my skin hydrated from the inside out.
2. I eat a huge breakfast, a smaller lunch and an even smaller dinner with mini snacks in between to keep my metabolism running like an 18 year old!
3. I exercise 3 to 5 times per week - this gets my oil glands working and keeping my skin hydrated.
4. I never sleep with my makeup on and always follow a proper cleansing routine.
5. And THE most important thing I do for my skin everyday is wear an SPF 30 each and every day of the year! Even on the darkest, most cloudy days in Vancouver! This will protect my skin from sun damage and prevent my skin's texture from eventually turning rough and looking like "an orange peel".

A spa facial once per month can also help you ward off the signs of time on your skin. Keeping your skin hydrated, balanced and maintained by a professional who can pinpoint areas of concern on your skin for you is an excellent way to stay on top of slowing down the aging process:

I recommend:

1. The Phytomer Hydrating Facial at Le Petit Spa is for those wishing to prevent the signs of time by keeping the skin nourished and hydrated; anyone showing the signs of time or for skin 25 years and older looking for a “drink” for their skin.

2. The Phytomer Anti-Aging Facial at Le Petit Spa is for those a little older than 25 and showing the visible signs of aging such as deep lines and wrinkles. I once had this facial (as one of the estheticians was training on it and needed a model!) My skin was so tight after this facial it almost hurt! But than again, I’m only 24, for a 40 to 55+ skin this facial will do wonders by lifting and firming the facial contour.

3. The Guinot Beaute Neuve Glycolic Facial also falls into the preventative category for anti-aging as it will remove a build up of dead, dull skin cells and “teach” your skin to regenerate itself. If your skin’s texture is feeling or looking a little rough, this facial just might be for you.
4. Microdermabrasion Facial at Le Petit Spa is our newest facial service at Le Petit Spa that will stimulate collagen and elastin production; “plumping” up wrinkles and fine lines and removing a rough looking skin texture as well. This facial can be enjoyed by everyone from about age 20 - 60 years of age.

To sum it all up, preventative skin care takes many forms not just in the products you use, but the lifestyle and beauty routines you encompass as well.

Le Petit Spa is open 7 days a week and offers complimentary skin type analysis to help you determine how to care for your skin from an esthetician’s professional point of view...contact Le Petit Spa.

Or, if you have beauty questions or spa-related questions, email me and I’ll reply with a personal email and post the answer in a future blog!

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The Best Solution Before Collagen Injections arrives at Le Petit Spa

Did you know? Our skin’s natural levels of collagen (the tissue responsible for keeping your skin young looking and wrinkle free) depletes by 1% every year after the age of 20?

There are many ways you can protect your skin’s natural collagen levels from depleting too fast like wearing sunscreen, drinking your 8 glasses of water a day and living a healthy lifestyle.

But, the newest addition to Le Petit Spa’s service menu will replenish lost collagen while preventing and slowing down further collagen loss.

Le Petit Spa has added a Collagen Masque to their facial menu and can be added to any facial service at Le Petit Spa. This collagen masque is the perfect way to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles for someone that may not want to go to the next step of Collagen injections (and its way cheaper!)

The perfect addition to any Le Petit Spa facial including:

Signature Facial - already includes a masque custom picked out for your skin, add the collagen masque to add some preventative anti-aging actions.

Microdermabrasion Facial - this facial is also new to Le Petit Spa and when combined with the Collagen Masque is your answer to leaving the spa with a mini face lift.

The Collagen masque is available at Le Petit Spa in early May...contact Le Petit Spa.

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Fridays are Facial-tastic at Le Petit Spa!

Facial Friday’s at Le Petit Spa

Featuring two of our most popular spa facial services, Facial Fridays at Le Petit Spa offers an incentive to those wishing to try either our Phytomer Hydrating Facial, or our Phytomer Anti-aging facial.

The Phytomer Hydrating Facial will boost hydration levels in your skin by 46% after 24 hours. Using marine extracts that promote long lasting hydration in the skin, this facial incorporates the following steps:

• Cleanse


• Tone


• Exfoliate


• Extractions if (necessary)


• Facial Massage


• First set of Masks


• Mask removal


• Application of third mask and serum with hand massage


• Application of day cream and minerals.

Three masks are utilized to encourage deeper penetration of active ingredients into the deepest layers of the skin.

The first set of masks incorporates a smooth, velvety moisture quench mask which is applied under a thermo active mask of sea mud. This thermo active mud mask gently warms to encourage the penetration of the active ingredients from the moisture quench mask.

The third mask is the intense moisture mask. A fresh and light gel, this mask delivers the full benefits of the sea - moisture, radiance and protection from outside aggressors.

A relaxing and soothing hand massage is performed using Le Petit Spa’s French Lavender hand cream, which contains all natural ingredients and no preservatives.

An application of self heating sea mud on your back at the start of the treatment has detoxified and remineralized your body by the end of the treatment. This is removed with warm towels at the end of your treatment.

Mineral makeup is applied after your facial as they contain an SPF factor of 18 and protect the skin against the sun, wind, pollution and free radicals. They do not clog pores; making them perfect for application after a spa facial.

The Phytomer Anti- aging facial uses concentrated amounts of Marine Spring Water, a proven preventative against the signs of aging and incorporates the following steps:

• Cleanse


• Tone


• Exfoliate


• Extractions (if necessary)


• Facial Massage


• First set of masks


• Mask removal


• Application of third mask with serum and hand massage


• Application of day cream and minerals

The first set of masks, as in the Phytomer Hydrating Facial, work towards delivering benefits into the deepest layers of the skin and promoting “plumping” of the skin through hydration layers.

The third mask, the Aqua Lift Mask, firms, tightens and lifts the skin, promoting the youthful appearance of facial contours and the skin. This is done while performing a hand massage using Le Petit Spa’s French Lavender hand cream.

An application of self heating mud to your back is also done during this facial to remineralize and detoxify your body.

An application of mineral makeup will protect your skin from free radicals, sun damage, and pollution outside of the spa. Your skin is luminous and glowing with youthful radiance.

On Facial Friday at Le Petit Spa, these two advanced facials are on promotion for a special incentive…Read more.

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Anti Aging Facial at Le Petit Spa

Anti-aging facial at Le Petit Spa

One of the biggest “buzz” words in the spa industry this year is “anti-aging”. Consumers are looking for products and services to keep them youthful looking for longer.

Enter Le Petit Spa’s Anti-aging facial which promises to diminish the signs of crow’s feet, fine lines and wrinkles by using highly active marine ingredients, 3 intensive masks to firm, plump and moisturize the deepest layers of the skin.

You’ll be changed into a plush terry towel robe and slippers before your service begins. Entering your own private treatment room, your esthetician will explain that she will step out of the room so you can dis-robe and slip under the warm down duvet. She will re-enter the room after a few minutes and begin to discuss the treatment with you:

1. Consultation - She will take a close look at your skin under a special lamp that will magnify your skin so she can look at it up close. Uneven skin texture, enlarged pores and pigmentation can be seen now, so she will know where to focus on during the service. She will also ask you if you have any skin concerns that you would like to focus on during your treatment and will confirm that you do not have any allergies.

2. Confirmation of service - Your esthetician will confirm with you that you are here for the anti-aging facial. She will also let you know that the following steps will take place: Cleanse, tone, exfoliate, extractions (if necessary) a facial massage, then the first mask with a hand massage, followed by an application of two more masks and then a final treatment cream. If you have questions now is the time to ask - she will be happy to answer all of them for you.

3. Cleanse - This removes makeup and dirt on the outer layers of the skin to prep skin for the deeper penetrating products to follow.

4. Tone - This step finishes the cleansing process; toning removes residue left by your cleanser and water - ensuring that the following products are easily absorbed by your skin.

5. Exfoliation - This is where your facial becomes deep cleansing. Exfoliating the top layer of skin removes hardened dead, and dull skin cells revealing a brighter, smoother complexion. This also allows the masks, serums and treatment creams in the rest of your facial penetrate better and deeper into your skin. If you have impurities in your skin such as blackheads, exfoliating your skin will help to speed the removal of these.

6. Extractions - This step is done only if necessary. Blackheads and / or white heads are removed by your esthetician’s skilled hands and instrument called an “extractor”. Gentle pressure is applied around each pore opening causing any dirt or blackheads in your pores to gently come out of your skin.

7. Facial Massage - The relaxing part! The skin is more receptive to active ingredients found in skin care products when the skin is relaxed, as well, blood circulation and lymph drainage is stimulated, revealing a glow of youth and removal of toxins from your body and skin.

8. Mask - Depending on the type of facial you are receiving, each mask has a specific purpose. The Anti-aging facial at Le Petit Spa uses three different masks all to deliver powerful anti-aging properties to you skin.

The first set of masks uses a soft, velvety textured mask to moisturize the skin. A sea mud mask is then put over top of the first mask, which gently warms up and causes the first mask to penetrate into the skin deeper.

A powerful anti-wrinkle serum is put on before the third mask to reduce the look of wrinkles.

The third mask is a firming mask. Quite cool feeling, this invigorating mask firms and tightens the look of mature skin, while reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles.

9. Day Cream - Using marine spring water as its main active ingredient, this day cream fights the signs of aging while moisturizing and keeping the skin comfortable.

An application of minerals will then be applied to protect your skin from external aggressors outside of the spa - such as pollution and sun…read more on minerals at Le Petit Spa.

Le Petit Spa offers complimentary skin analysis at its Vancouver day spa, open seven days a week in beautiful Kitsilano.

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Fountain of Youth flows strong at Le Petit Spa

Fountain of Youth flows at Le Petit Spa

Dubbed as the Fountain of Youth in modern day spa culture, this amazing substance is available at Le Petit Spa.

Containing time released active antioxidants and botanicals such as Coenzyme Q10, Vitamins C and K and a state of the art liposome formula, Le Petit Spa’s “Fountain of Youth” is in a gel base made of Hyaluronic Acid (a natural acid that holds 1000x its weight in water) and Aloe Vera gel…know what it is?

First, let’s talk about the benefits of each of the said ingredients:

• Coenzyme Q10 - Prevents and reverses damage to skin cells.
  


• Vitamins C and K - protect and nourish the skin
  


• Liposome formula - Nourishes and hydrates the skin reducing the signs of fine lines and wrinkles.

Along with these “youth delivering” ingredients, this secret product contains:

• Seaweed extracts - condition and protect the skin
  


• Time released antioxidants: protect your skin continuously throughout the day to protect skin cells from environmental damage.

Coming in an airless pump to ensure the “fountain of youth” runs continuously, and to preserve the active ingredients with no chemical preservatives needed.

Ok, so what is this “Fountain of Youth” that Le Petit Spa has stumbled upon? It’s called:

“Liquid Minerals”

Liquid Minerals? An evolution in skin care, this “makeup” is the newest thing to come along since, well? Sliced bread!

The next level of beauty products, this skin care answer to a regular cosmetic foundation treats your skin and protects it while covering like a foundation. BUT! Does not contain any chemicals or traditional makeup.

What it does contain are 100% pure, crushed natural minerals that cover like a foundation but will not clog pores or become caked in wrinkles and fine lines.

The specialized airless pump helps the product to last, if used everyday, for up to 2 months.

Jane Iredale Mineral makeup is an extension of skin care. We do not consider it makeup, it is actually skin care that covers like makeup. Once you try Jane Iredale Minerals you will find it hard to use anything else again! Your skin will look and feel better than ever!

Come into Le Petit Spa for a makeup application service and receive 10% off of any purchase of Jane Iredale mineral makeup when purchased same day as service. Contact Le Petit Spa today!

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Why Should I? The Importance of Using Professional Skin Care Products

Why use professional skin care?

Why use professional skin care? Why not just head down to the local drugstore, and pick up something cheap? Why spend money on something that just goes down the drain?

These are common questions that clients ask when they come into a spa for a facial. But, if you’re coming in to a spa for a facial, why aren’t you ready to make a commitment to good skin at home? Why spend money on a facial if you return home and use not-so-great products on your skin?

This blog discusses why using professional products are beneficial to your skin and busts through some myths about professional products.

1. Professional skin care is way more expensive

Not true! Professional skin products are comparable to say, Lancôme or Clinique; and sometimes, even less expensive. Plus, on average, you’re getting 70% more active ingredients in professional products than drugstore and department store brands. See our price comparison chart on one of our professional products, Phytomer, and major department store brands…

2. Department store brands are better known and reputable

Ok, so if your idea of being reputable is spending research dollars on the next glitzy ad campaign containing your favourite celebrity, then department store brands are more reputable. The reason why these brands are so well known is for a number of reasons:

a. Hire expensive celebrities and models to promote their product. This is called “Referent Power” and is a powerful marketing tool. By law, when these spokes models promote these products they have to use them, but only for the duration of the ad campaign or commercial you’re watching.

b. Money that is accumulated from the sales of these products is put into the next ad campaign for the product, not back into the product as research and advancement techniques. Marketing behind these lines has more money spent on it than research and development of the products you’re using on your face.

And let’s face it, if your favourite celebrity shows up on your TV with perfect skin using the said product, why aren’t you going to use it to achieve her skin? These ad campaigns work wonders.

3. Why don’t we hear about professional skin care more often?

Professional skin care companies do not put money into their marketing campaigns like department store brands do. They put the money made from sales of their products into years of research and new technologies. And then, of course they do put some money into marketing; but you will see this when you enter the salon or spa that it is sold in.

4. Why are professional brands like Phytomer and Guinot sold in spa only?

When a brand is sold in a spa or salon, it is guaranteed to be of a professional grade brand, meaning it contains higher quality ingredients and more active ingredients and need professionally trained skin care therapists to use them and educate their clients on them.

Selling professional lines in spa only means that there is a better quality control over the product as well; they are not mass produced like drugstore brands and department store brands are; they are produced in numbers compared to past years and sales trends.

This also means that you will not receive a product that has been sitting in a warehouse for five years, your professional products are fresh and of high quality.

The most important thing you should consider when using products for yourself is how you feel about the product. You should use products that you believe in, are happy with the results and deliver results to you.

When you visit a spa for a facial, listen to your esthetician about the skin care she recommends to you; she’s not just trying to make commission off of selling you something, she’s educating you about which products, from her professional experience and opinion of your skin, are right for you. She should offer you brochures and as much information about the line she is recommending to you as you want or need.

Remember: she’s not trying to force information down your throat and getting you to buy buy buy! She’s trying to help you make the best possible choice in professional skin care for you and your needs.

Come into Le Petit Spa for a complimentary skin consultation to receive education and advice about what type of products would be best for your skin. These complimentary services are available seven days a week; contact Le Petit Spa today…

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Le Petit Spa - March Service Promotion

March Service Promotion at Le Petit Spa

This month, Le Petit Spa features their Signature Facial as the Monthly Service Promotion.

Featuring the Phytomer line of professional skin care products, this facial allows customization for each client; who doesn’t want their own unique professional facial made just for them?

Your Le Petit Spa Esthetician will first do a skin type analysis to expertly choose which Phytomer products are best suited for you (hydrating, oil balancing, anti-aging).

She will talk closely with you about your skin concerns, problems you may be experiencing or any specific issues you would like to address during your experience at Le Petit Spa.

The facial experience starts off with a relaxation back massage and moves into the initial steps of the facial: Cleansing, toning, exfoliation and steam are all done with products specifically picked out for your unique skin type / concerns.

Extractions are done (if necessary) a facial massage, and then your own personalized mask is applied and left to benefit your skin for up to 10 minutes. During your masqueing, a soothing and deeply relaxing hand massage is performed for you.

Your final treatment cream and eye cream is then applied to conclude your Le Petit Spa facial experience. Home care recommendations are then talked about with you.

Your Esthetician has worked closely with you and your skin for an hour now; she can best prescribe which products would work best for your skin and expertly give directions on how to use each product.

Home care is an important step in facial care; not just so you can say “I use professional products” but because the results from your facial will not last or benefit you if you return home and use products that are wrong for your skin; the money you spent on your facial just went down the drain – literally!

The biggest myth in the spa industry that I have come across is that professional skin care products sold in spas are much more expensive than say, department store brands like Lancôme and Clinique. NOT TRUE!!! Take a look at our past price comparison between our Phytomer skin care line and some major department store brands…

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to be the first to know about our monthly service promotions, our featured daily promotions, gift with purchases and special events….or email me with your beauty, or spa service questions, and look for your answer in a future blog!

Mineral Makeup - The Hype, The Addiction, The Solution found at Le Petit Spa.

The Hype

Consumers are smarter now more than ever when it comes to making purchases while protecting the environment. With global warming becoming a basis for political campaigns and the realization that recycling, renewable fossil fuels and reusable goods should be a staple in today’s global community, consumers are looking for solutions that fit into today’s environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Enter Mineral Makeup, today’s cosmetic solution that is good for the environment as well as your skin – their hypoallergenic formulas are free of petroleum, talc, chemicals and other fillers that are un-natural and cause interruptions in your skin’s natural metabolic processes. Plus, the company that makes these minerals does not test on animals and harvest the minerals while ensuring the planet is left undamaged and at its natural state.

The minerals are from Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics – a pioneer in the natural cosmetics industry. Dubbed as the “Skin Care Makeup” these minerals feature a natural SPF derived from, of course, natural minerals. The creator of these minerals, Jane Iredale, was looking for a solution to cover the redness some clients were experiencing after laser surgery at the doctor’s office she was working at. Today, many plastic surgeons, doctors and spa’s all across the world use Jane Iredale as their choice for professional makeup services.

The Addiction

Once you try Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics, it will be hard to use anything else. Not only do they have long lasting staying power, they do not clog pores (I must admit, I’ve even slept with them on, and not one pimple!). They feel so light that you can’t feel them on your skin, but covers everything from dark circles under the eyes, pimples, redness, freckles… I could go on for ever! Plus, your skin glows when you have these minerals on. I’m addicted; these minerals make your skin look so healthy! Of course, the healthiest makeup you can wear is your own skin, but if you’re like most of us out there and perfect skin isn’t always in the cards, Jane Iredale Minerals just might be the answer.

Day Spas use these minerals as “an extension of skin care” and some even apply them after performing facial treatments on their clients to protect their client’s skin from external factors (such as the sun) with their natural SPF.

Another great advantage of using these minerals is that they’re “inert”, meaning they don’t support bacteria growth, making them ideal for clients who have problems with acne (Teens). They also contain anti-inflammatory ingredients, soothing and calming the skin from external aggressors that can cause irritation...Read more about Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup.

The Solution

The perfect solution is found at Le Petit Spa! Book a full makeup application using Jane Iredale Mineral cosmetics or, better yet, a lesson to learn everything you need to know about them, and receive 10% off the purchase of the minerals used on you at the time of service! It’s our way of saying “Thank you”! Click here to contact Le Petit Spa for an appointment today.

You'll be doing something good for your skin, as well as the environment!

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Daily Promotions revamped at Vancouvers Top Day Spa

Le Petit Spa Daily Service Promotions

Le Petit Spa has revamped their daily promotions. Featuring a different service each day of the week (except Saturdays), each day promises to pamper you in delight while receiving top-of-the-line day spa services in a trendy Vancouver neighbourhood.

Le Petit Spa has positioned themselves as one of the top three day spas in Vancouver three years in a row and consider themselves “Facial Specialists”. Offering high-end treatments, without the high - end prices has firmly positioned them as a reputable neighbourhood day spa for all your beauty needs.

Below, are the daily service promotions available at Le Petit Spa for all of Vancouver:

1. “Mani” Mondays – Come into Le Petit Spa on a Monday for a manicure service and purchase any OPI product to receive 15% off of the total of the two…Read more.

2. “Toes” Tuesdays – Come into Le Petit Spa on a Tuesday for a pedicure and purchase any footlogix product and receive 15% off of the total of the two…Read more.

3. “Wax” Wednesdays – Come into Le Petit Spa on a Wednesday for two or more waxing services and receive 50% off the lesser of the two…Read more.

4. “Thursdays for Men” – Come into Le Petit Spa on a Thursday and receive a special deal to restore your energy and vitality…Read more.

5. “Facial Fridays” – Come into Le Petit Spa on a Friday and book either a Phytomer Hydrating Facial or the Phytomer Youth Enhancing Facial and receive either one for only $95 (regularly $110)…Read more.

6. "Signature Sundays" - Come into Le Petit Spa on a Sunday for Le Petit Spa's Signature Facial and receive 10% off the purchase of any skin care product or Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup purchase...Read more.

Each day is designed to deliver the best value in professional day spa services to Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.

Be the first to know about Le Petit Spa’s monthly service promotions by signing up for our monthly newsletter featuring further exclusive promotions and in-spa promotions or email me with your beauty questions and look for your answer in a future blog!

New word on the street "Minerals" and Le Petit Spa has the answer

The newest trend to hit the makeup industry isn’t makeup…the word on the street is “Minerals”.

And this word is becoming more popular each day. Known in the spa industry as “an extension of professional skin care” and “The Skin Care Makeup” minerals are the best thing to come into the day spa industry since a perfectly painted set of toes!

What are Minerals?

Minerals are pure, crushed minerals taken from the earth. These minerals have natural pigment, that when oxidized by oxygen (iron oxides) they produce color that is used in Mineral cosmetics.

Jane Iredale Mineral “makeup” is Le Petit Spa’s preferred choice when it comes to Mineral “makeup” (“makeup” in quotations because it’s not makeup, these minerals just don’t cover - up your skin like makeup, they make your skin look and feel better while protecting it)

Le Petit Spa prefers Jane Iredale for the following reasons:

• No animal testing



• Contain no chemicals, fillers, talc or parabens like drugstore brands do; therefore, no cancer causing agents.



• Used by plastic surgeons and dermatologists to cover reddened skin after surgery or laser treatments



• Does not clog pores



• Feels so light it feels like wearing nothing at all, but covers heavy enough to cover acne and skin conditions like rosacea.



• Only used in professional spas, Plastic Surgeon offices and Dermatologist; never found in drugstores which allows for higher quality and more active ingredients.

Benefits of using mineral makeup:

• Contains a natural SPF of 20 that protects your skin from sun damage (derived from natural minerals found in the earth that contain natural UV filters.)



• Protection from free radicals that cause premature aging with antioxidants



• Does not clog pores



• Does not contain chemicals, parabens, fillers or talc that can cause irritation on sensitive skin types (these have also been linked to certain forms of cancer)

The most beautiful cosmetic you can wear is a healthy skin; mineral makeup can help keep your skin looking beautiful because it does not cause your skins normal functions from being disturbed from chemicals, dyes or other irritants.

Le Petit Spa will be at the Lululemon Event “Girls Night In” on February 14th, at their West 4th location in Kitsilano for a fun filled night of martinis, chocolates and spa treatments…Read more about Lululemon and Le Petit Spa “Girls Night In”


Come into Le Petit Spa for a complimentary makeup application with Jane Iredale minerals to try them out for yourself! Contact Le Petit Spa today and as a special incentive, when you purchase your Jane Iredale Minerals same day as your appointment, you will receive 10% off your purchase.

Sign up for our monthly newsletter for further exclusive offers and promotions such as our monthly service promotions and gift with purchases from Phytomer and Guinot, or email me with your beauty questions or spa service questions and look for the answer in a future blog!

Le Petit Spa - Specialized Hydradermie Facial offered at Vancouvers #1 Day Spa

Special Machine aids in “Lifting” and “Plumping” Skin

The Tingle Means its Working

Le Petit Spa, nominated one of the top three day spas in Vancouver since its opening, is committed to providing clients with the best spa services available and is pleased to introduce their newest advanced facial, the Guinot Hydradermie Facial.

Perfect for anyone who feels that their skin needs a “lift”, this advanced intensive facial delivers serious anti aging results after just one visit. This treatment is designed to target the deepest levels of dehydration in the skin by using an advanced facial machine to gently massage and help penetrate specialized facial gels into the inner most layers of the skin.

Benefits of Guinot Hydradermie Facial:

· Boosts moisture content in deeper layers of the skin
· Diminishes the look of fine lines, wrinkles
· Drains toxins and excess fluid away from the skin
· Specialized products for neck and eye areas
· “Plumps” and revitalizes the look of your skin; results are visible after just one visit.


This facial lasts 90 minutes and is Le Petit Spa’s January Service Promotion at the introductory price of $105. (Regular-$120) Le Petit Spa is open 7 days a week and is located on the corner of Broadway and Alma in Kitsilano/Point Grey....Contact Le Petit Spa

Check out Le Petit Spa's daily facial promotions: Facial Fridays and Signature Sundays. Offering all of Vancouver and the Lower Mainland the best value in day spa facial services. Read more...

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

Le Petit Spa - Nationally renowned Glycolic Facial gets facelift

Le Petit Spa’s nationally renowned Glycolic facial has undergone a “face lift” and now comes with even more regenerative power. Incorporating a “peel in/peel out” system with in depth cellular regeneration and skin lightening and depigmentation action, the Le Petit Spa Beauté Neuve Glycolic Facial promises to reveal an inner glow clients may have never known they had.

This $90 dollar advanced facial treatment includes the following steps:

• The “peel in” gel harnesses the power of fruit acids (AHA’s) and separates dead skin cells from living cells.

• The “peel out” foam follows which exfoliates the skin and eradicates the loosened dead cells resulting in new skin cell generation while boosting skins natural radiance.

• The soothing regenerating serum that follows is enriched with 56 cellular nourishing ingredients which nurture, regenerate and protect the top layer of the skin. (Epidermis).

• A brightening, anti-pigmentation mask which uses the power of pure Vitamin C to target skin discolorations and sun damage.

This facial will help to smooth out wrinkles while leaving skin beautifully rejuvenated and hydrated. A trip to Le Petit Spa and 75 minutes of relaxation time is all it takes to start skin off on this path to radiance.

For the month of December clients are invited to try this facial for an introductory cost of $80.00 (regular price $90.00) click here to make an appointment.

Check out our daily facial promotions, Facial Fridays and Signature Sundays, the two days of the week set aside for Vancouverites to recieve the best value in spa facial services in the Lower mainland and Vancouver!

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

Le Petit Spa is located on the corner of Broadway and Alma in the Kitsilano/Point Grey area in Vancouver and is open seven days a week.

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!

Winter Skin Care: Anti-oxidants and the benefits to skin

Winter Skin Care: Anti-oxidants and the benefits to skin

How do Antioxidants work?

Antioxidants are powerful chemicals that protect cells by neutralizing external forces such as the sun, pollutants and the weather and internal factors such as hormones and emotions.

Antioxidants are vital to health because they combat free radicals. Free radicals are by-products (waste) that are produced when our bodies use oxygen.

Free radicals are unstable molecules that try to “steal” atoms from our healthy molecules to make themselves stable and repaired; a free radical is essentially a skin or body cell that is damaged. Therefore; the structure of our skin or body cells are damaged when free radicals are present, altering our DNA which results in aging and illness.

Common antioxidants found in skin care are Vitamin A, C, E and Beta Carotene.

Why are companies putting Anti-oxidants in skin care products?

Antioxidants protect collagen, a fibrous tissue in our bodies that is the foundation of all our connective tissue: blood vessels and skin etc.

How can antioxidant tablets help me?

Many companies that produce tablets** or multi-vitamins carry anti-oxidant pills that promise to boost the production of collagen and elastin (two fibrous tissues responsible for keeping our skin youthful looking) while protecting existing collagen and elastin content.

What is the best way to obtain antioxidants: tablet** or skin care?

Let’s face it: Antioxidants are essential to maintaining healthy, youthful skin. They fight off free radicals that cause our DNA to age and be susceptible to illness. Taking them internally via tablet** form is the perfect way to help your body from the inside out, but why not treat your skin with antioxidants from the outside as well to fight external factors?

Look for products that contain Vitamin A, E or C and Beta Carotene. These are all forms of antioxidants found in skin care.

Some forms of Mineral makeup, which are made of pure, crushed minerals contain these ingredients. Mineral makeup is fast becoming known as “skin care” makeup because it contains so many active ingredients made to treat and protect skin while it is being worn. Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup is one company that incorporates antioxidants into their “skin care” makeup.

Skin Care companies such as Intaglio, B. Kamins and Skeyndor all have specific lines to address the growing demand for skin care products that contain Antioxidants.

To book a free skin care consultation at Le Petit Spa, click here.

Check out our weekly spa promotions for facials: Facial Fridays or Signature Sundays.

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

** Please consult your doctor before starting any multi-vitamin or pill form of therapy. This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.