Skin Basics
We all know the basics of good skin care: Cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and of course using a sunscreen. But why should we also exfoliate, use a masque and a serum? Read on to discover three simple steps that are often overlooked.

WHY EXFOLIATE?  All skin types will benefit from regular exfoliation which removes the hard keratin layer build-up and brings luminosity and clarity to the skin.
For younger skin, exfoliation unplugs pores and keeps the skin clear and smooth. For mature skin, exfoliation is essential to help minimize fine lines and to revive sluggish skin.

WHY USE MASQUES? Using a face masque once or twice per week will dramatically increase the elasticity and health of your skin. Treatment masques can be used to control acne, rosacea, dryness or oiliness.

WHY USE SERUMS? Serums are secret beauty elixirs that infuse skin with pure vitamins and herbs. The light liposome base of the serum insures deep penetration into the skin to impart a healthy glow. Serums are used with every skin type to treat skin problems or fight the signs of aging.

Visit www.eminenceorganics.com to learn more about the organic skin care products used in this salon.
 
SKIN CONDITIONS VS. SKIN DISEASES

Skin diseases are more serious than skin conditions and need to be cared for by a physician as well as your knowledgeable Skin Care Therapist. The two most common are Acne and Rosacea.

Acne:  Both a skin disorder and a disease. There are four stages of acne, grades 1 through grade 4. Acne grades 1 and 2 can usually be managed by the skin care therapist, but proper home care is also of the utmost importance. Grades 3 and 4 are more severe and characterized by increased pustules, pimples and cysts. Cysts are infectious lesions in the papillary layer of the dermis that cannot be treated topically.
Although the Esthetician can help with deep-pore cleansing and educating the client on proper home care, clients need a physician for either topical or oral antibiotics or possibly Accutane.
Rosacea: Also a disorder/disease and sometimes confused with Acne. Rosacea often shows on the skin as an inflammation and reddening on the nose, forehead, cheekbone and chin area often appearing as a butterfly effect across the nose and cheeks. Inflamed capillaries on the skin surface can progress to Telangiectasia, or small spider like appearances on the skin. With further progression of Rosacea, bumps and pustules will appear.
Stimulating massage, excess heat or temperature changes are contraindicated. Avoiding alcohol, smoking, spicy foods, hot liquids and extreme temperatures will help clear irritation.                       

Skin conditions which can be greatly helped by regular visits to a skin therapist include:
  • Aging and Mature skin/lines and wrinkles
  • Dehydration: Both dry and oily skin can be dehydrated
  • Sensitivity: Both and a type and condition
  • Hyperpigmentation
While nothing can stop the march of time improving the overall health of the skin will result in improved skin beauty and function. Great skin care begins with proper skin analysis and listening to clients concerns about what is important to them.