Shhh . . . don't tell anyone . . . yet

We have been working to develop a program that will benefit our guests - allowing YOU to save money, at the same time making sure your spa therapy program is beneficial to your overall health and well-being.   

Introducing the Spa 131 Membership Program!

You are invited to join one, or all, of our new programs:   Facials Member, Lash Lift Member, Lypossage Maintenance Member, Massage Member or Wax Member.

Please call or stop by to learn all the details, and here's the BIGGEST PART . . . YOU are getting the news early, as the real rollout will be in December. Join before December 1st 2016 and we will waive the $50 activation fee! 

This is really a big deal for us, as we have been asked over and over since we first opened.  Oh . . . did I say this is NOT a long-term contract?  No?  You may cancel if you find it's not working to your best advantage.

Can't wait to tell you all the details!

Marci Delaney

Spa 131

131 State Street

West Columbia,  SC  29169

803-251-9400

www.spa131.com

June - Junny - June - June

June . . . Sounds like summer, doesn't it?  Swimming, Boating, Beaching and all the joys of June in the South.  Makes me smile . . . BIG.  Please!  Please!  Please!   Remember to USE your sunscreen - every single day.  Make it a habit, my friends.  Your skin will thank you!

Spa 131 has brought in a new line of Sunscreen for your use.  We have it in three formulas - one that is extremely light-weight for oily complexions, one that is more moisturizing for dryer skin types, and a great water-resistant formula that you'll love.  All three of these are mineral (zinc) based and offer GREAT broad-screen(UVA/UVB) protection.  These products are made by PCA Skin and are recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation - their seal is right on the bottle - also featured in O Magazine, Lucky Magazine and Elle Magazine.  You're going to want this!

If you've been in to see me anytime in the past several months, you have experienced my CELLUMA LED Panel.

 I truly feel this is a most effective thing I have seen in skincare.  Let me tell you more about it.  LED stands for Light Emitting Diode and is approved by the FDA for anti-aging and in helping with acne.  It really is rocket science.  Over 15 years ago NASA sponsored a project to develop LED light to generate photosynthesis to grow plants in space.  They found that it  did effectively increase cellular activity in plants - - - and then was used to maintain Astronauts health.   They found it to sustain normal cell growth, prevent bone loss and muscle loss and and to boost the bodies ability to heal wounds.  It has been discovered that cells exposed to certain infrared LED lights grow and heal up to 200% faster than cells not stimulated by LED.  
Isn't that just the coolest thing???

Those smarty NASA peeps found that different LED light colors target specific skin conditions. Want to know more???

RED is found to be the most powerful color to increase blood circulation and stimulate skin cells to improve collagen production.   THIS is the ANTI-AGING magic bullet!  It is suitable for any type of skin to increase fiber blasts, ATP and generally increase cellular activity to lighten and tone the skin. Great for scaring and wound healing.  

BLUE kills P.Acne Bacteria and improves oily, troubled skin.  It is also extremely calming against skin rashes and sensitivity - that's why it is desired post-peel, post-laser, for sunburns, etc.  Blue LED can adjust sebum secretion and may have some tightening to loose skin.

PURPLE is a combination of the above and is found to be relaxing and improves lymph metabolism. Purple can strengthen the protein fiber tissue, decrease the appearance of large pores and appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.  Because it is a combination of colors the red is somewhat weakened than when used alone.

GREEN helps with discoloration, as it targets melanocytes, melanin producing cells located in  the bottom layer of the epidermis.  May inhibit production of excess melanin, preventing it from traveling to the skin's surface and breaks up clusters of melanin (discoloration) to diminish the appearance of spots, such as freckles/hyperpigmentation.

YELLOW/AMBER LED is the most shallow penetration, but effective in treating redness.   Excellent for sensitive skin and rosacea.   This color treats the appearance of the tiny blood vessels on the nose and face.  

Seriously!   Have you heard anything more wonderful?  Treatments are cumulative - people find them relaxing and most actually nap.   We don't mind the snores at all!   We are happy to add on a 30 minute LED "Nap Session" after any service - just ask when you schedule your appointment.  I love asking at the conclusion of the treatment how the skin feels - nearly EVERY GUEST says the same thing, "My skin feels tighter!"   That's a win!

Since it is now JUNE, Spa 131 has begun our Summer Specials.   This year we are offering a special sumpin, sumpin for one full week.  You may take advantage of that offer by calling or booking online during that week for any time in June.  Our first week's special facial offer is a Summer Berry Facial.  

This soothing facial is good for any skin type and, of course, smells delicious.  It is exfoliating and hydrating.  You'll feel pampered and refreshed.  Regular cost would be $99, but on special this week for just $79.00

Our massage special is actually a massage package deal.  With this package you may choose THREE hour massages - Swedish, Deep Tissue, Life-style Personalized or Hot-stone for only $159.   Come see us weekly, bi-weekly, or choose to see us in June, July AND August.  You get to choose.

Be sure and check back every Monday for the new deals and offerings.  They will be available for that week only - then, Poof - gone.

That's all the Spa news and I know I haven't written for a while,  Y'all know why . . . Little Miss McKenna Elizabeth Delaney - my (not so) new Grand Daughter.  Here's why I have been distracted  .  .  .  .

 I'm back on track now, though.  At least for this minute!  LOL
 She has my heart and I admit my preoccupation with everything McKenna.  

We did lose our Nail Technician and 2nd Esthetician (same person) at Easter, and we are looking for a great replacement.  Please remember that as you are out and about.  Would you spread the word?   Tell everyone that "The BEST Wellness Spa" is looking to add them to "The BEST Spa team!"   Thanks so much.  I really think we are going to find someone awesome by word-of-mouth.  If you've visited us just one time, you know what a wonderful place Spa 131 is.  Just tell others about us and about our search for wonderful team members.  That'll do it!

Finally, Ladies, this is just for you and, BTW, it IS OK to talk about it . . . Vaginal Health. It's a real thing! If you're suffering and/or having "issues" did you know that there is a real solution? We are considering a Meet & Greet with Dr. Andrea Pezzella, MD so you can learn more about options. Would you send me Private Message if you are interested in getting on the list? I will notify you when we have this scheduled. Dr. Pezzella is absolutely great and you'll be very thankful to be armed with information to allow you to reclaim, restore, and revive your intimate self.  These "issues" occur with just about ALL women "of a certain age" - Menopause is to blame and maybe you didn't know that there are real, effective options that don't include messy creams or patches.  Please let me know if you are interested and I will notify you when we have a definite date for this FREE session.  You will be so, so, so happy to learn what is available to help give your personal life back - healthy and happy!

Now, go make your Spa 131 appointment.   We are so looking forward to having you in - THIS WEEK!

Cheers

Marci Delaney - along with Amy, Casey and Kayla
Spa 131
131 State Street
West Columbia,  SC  29169
803-251-9400
www.spa131.com

Is it Enough???

"I don't have to apply any extra sunscreen, because it's in my makeup."

"I use sunscreen every day because it's in my makeup."

"There is no need for additional sunscreen, because it's in my makeup."

I hear this said to me several times every single day in Spa 131. But, is the sunscreen in your makeup good enough for adequate protection?  I decided to do some research on my own and here's what I found . . . probably, absolutely, maybe . . . No.   Hahaha.   So you're clear on that?  

The short answer is that you should be applying an additional, broad-spectrum sunscreen underneath your makeup.  I'm providing info from Web MD . . . it's really good info.  Please do take a minute to read the entire article:

Many foundations and powders contain sunscreen, but is it enough for daily protection?

By Susan P. Clark

Reviewed by Emmy M. Graber, MD

WebMD Feature

WebMD Feature Archive

Sunscreen and Your Makeup Routine

You want to prevent wrinkles and skin cancer, so you are dedicated to wearing sunscreen. But coverage looks shiny or chalky, especially under makeup.

Many foundations and other makeup products offer a built-in sun protection factor (SPF). Is that your smartestbeauty solution? Dermatologist Leslie Baumann, MD, says giving in to that temptation would be a mistake.

"Makeup does not provide enough coverage," she says. "You need seven times the normal amount of foundation and 14 times the normal amount of powder to get the sun protection factor on the label. No one does this."

So can you marry makeup and sunscreen in your routine and still look good? Yes, if you follow these steps.

1. Select the proper sunscreen.

Before you step in front of the bathroom mirror, find a sunscreen that offers enough protection. The Skin Cancer Foundation advises people to use a moisturizer containing broad-spectrum sunscreen (which means it blocks both UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF rating of at least 15. Ingredients such as zinc oxide, avobenzone (Parsol 1789) or ecamsule (Mexoryl), combined with octocrylene and avobenzone work best with makeup and provide broad spectrum sun protection.

EXPERT TIPS

• Baumann says to layer a physical sunscreen, such as Aveeno Ultra-Calming Daily Moisturizer SPF 15, with a chemical sunscreen (either Topix Glycolix Elite Sunscreen SPF 30 or Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Sensitive Skin SPF 30), to block most of the sun’s rays.
• Tina Turnbow, makeup artist, advises using a natural moisturizer, such as Pur-lisse pur-protect SPF 30, which is light and smooth and good for dewy skin. She also says Arcona Reozone SPF 20 is a little richer but has more of a matte finish.
• Patti Bell, makeup artist, says DDF Matte Finish Photo-Age Protection SPF 30 is oil-free.
• Karen Houpt, dermatologist, says that If you’re concerned about an unflattering white pall, avoid products with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

2. Apply sunscreen liberally.

"Apply a thin, even coat, approximately one teaspoon for face, neck, and ears," Houpt says. ""Let the sunscreen soak into the skin and dab the excess with tissue. After you finish applying sunscreen, wash the residue off your hands before applying makeup.

3.

If necessary, use 

SPF eye cream.

If sunscreen irritates the delicate area around your eyes, the Skin Cancer Foundation suggests using an SPF 15 eye cream.

4. Apply a foundation or tinted moisturizer 

with 15 or more SPF.

If you use makeup foundation or tinted moisturizer -- a light foundation with sheer coverage -- remember that you cannot rely on these products alone; they must be used in conjunction with sunscreen. Although sunscreen is the most important element to shield skin from the sun, foundation or tinted moisturizer with SPF can help. Check labels, and purchase products with SPF 15 or higher.

EXPERT TIPS

• Turnbow recommends Prescriptives 1 Oil Free Matte Finish MakeUp SPF 15 for a foundation. She suggests Alison Raffaele Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 because it provides sheer coverage, good moisture, and natural ingredients. When using a primer (a base for heavier makeup), she uses Smashbox Photo Finish Primer SPF 15 with Dermaxyl Complex.
• Bell likes Laura Mercier Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20.

5. Apply powder.

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends applying compressed powder with a sponge because the powder's particles provide some sun protection, and powder will help keep sunscreen and moisturizer in place.

• Turnbow recommends Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral SPF 30 -- especially for keeping skin matte. It’s a talc-free, transparent matte SPF 30 mineral powder with a brush applicator.
• Bell likes Clinique Almost Powder Make-Up SPF 15 because it’s lightweight. YSL’s Matt Touch Compact Foundation SPF 20 is a new matte powder that hydrates, soothes pores, and absorbs oil.

6. Don’t forget the lips.

Protect your lips with an SPF 15 or higher lipstick or lip balm. Covergirl Triple Lipstick, SPF 15 offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection for lips, as does Mary Kay Sun Essentials Lip Protector Sunscreen SPF 15. If you wear lipstick for sun protection, use an opaque shade rather than a high-gloss lipstick with little pigmentation.

7. Reapply

Bauman recommends reapplying sunscreen once during the day regardless of indoor or outdoor activity. "UVA goes through glass," she says.

If you're spending ample time outdoors, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends reapplying sunscreen on the face and lips every two hours.

How can you manage that with your makeup routine? Turnbow suggests dusting on an SPF translucent powder after you reapply sunscreen to keep shine down. If you're spending time outdoors and want a less complicated routine, keep it simple with lip color, mascara, and maybe a long-lasting eyeliner. She says cheek stains are also good for light, natural-looking color.

There are a lot of name-brands in the above and I am, in no way, advocating for them.  Just find what you like and USE it.  Here's a great myth-buster . . . Don't think that combining products gives you greater protection . Example:  Using a SPF of 15 in your makeup and a SPF of 20 in your daily moisturizer doesn't add up to equal 35.  You still only have the protection of the highest number . . . in this case a 20 SPF.  

Also bear in mind that 2 hour window of protection.   ARE you going to reapply every two hours . . . That is an absolute NO WAY.   No one is going to re-do their makeup application in order to get better sun protection.No one is that dedicated. The powder sunscreen is your BFF for this!   Just dust and go.

Don't forget your neck, chest, decollete, and backs of hands.   These places are definite agers.  Liberally applying sunscreen to these often-neglected spots in the morning and dusting a powder sunscreen when you go out to lunch, on the way home (remember your hands on the steering wheel), sitting out at the ballfield and where ever you spend your time, goes a long way to taking care of yourself and aging well.  No one wants to be speckled,now  do they?

This week, Spa 131 does have opening for Spray Tanning.  It is the ONLY way to safely get just-off-the-beach color.  it is $30 for a single session or $100 for 4, weekly, sessions. Book your appointment by visiting http://www.spa131.com.

Also, we do have a $69 Swedish Massage Special going on throughout May. Plus you may add a Spray after for only $25.

I hope you did take the time to read and learned a little something .  Now book a spa appointment and let me see your beautiful face!

Marci Delaney
Spa 131
131 State Street
West Columbia, SC  29169
803-251-9400
www.spa131.com

February for (Spa 131 ) Lovers . . .

It's February!   February isn't just for lovers at Spa 131, although we sure are experts in couples treats.   We have Champagne & Roses Massage for Two, Chocolate Massage for Two, and simple Massage Renewal for Two and these services stay on our menu all year long - not just a once-per-year offering. Right now, we have only SIX spots left, so if you want to reserve your spot for Valentin's Day, you'll need to call right away.  We started with 20 reserved spots between February 12 and February 20 and that's all that's remaining . . . 6 spots.

So what's new at Spa 131?  A few exciting things that's for sure.  I'll begin with my personal favorite and something that I have been budgeting for for quite a while.  Introducing CELLUMA.    What is Celluma?

 Based on scientific research pioneered by NASA, the Celluma, triggers a cascade of metabolic processes which restores compromised cellular function, creating a path to revitalized health.  Celluma is an FDA approved, light-weight, pulsed LED panel, designed to easily contour to the face and body, a unique feature which facilitates absorption and dramatically increases performance.   What does it do? Celluma Blue LED calms Inflammatory Acne Vulgaris and keeps lesions from spreading. Each 30 minute BLUE session decreases acne lesions and helps to heals them quickly. Celluma Red LED calms the effects of Rosacea and it’s accompanying redness, pimples and lesions. Calms the appearance of broken blood vessels. Celluma RED fades brown spots and softens the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles. Each 30 minute RED session increases collagen production by 200%. I am beyond THRILLED to finally be able to offer this service to you.   During the month of February EVERY MD Facial will receive a complimentary Celluma LED treatment at the conclusion of your service.  

How to best benefit from Celluma LED treatments?   6, twice weekly treatments are recommended to see the full benefit.  LED treatments are cumulative.  After your 6 treatments you'll see younger looking, glowey, refreshed skin WITHOUT needles!

Did I mention the FAR INFRARED benefits?  No matter the age we all strive to be healthy, pain free and to look and feel our very best. The Celluma from BioPhotas, Inc. is a specialized light emitting diode (LED) device designed to treat arthritis, muscle spasm, muscle and joint pain, muscle tissue tension, joint and muscle stiffness, diminished local circulation and inflammation. Over time, we all experience an inevitable loss of cellular health through illness, trauma, aging, or poor lifestyle choices. Celluma's innovative design and technology helps to restore your body's natural cell function and brings new meaning to "illuminating vitality." 

Our Celluma Package is 6, twice weekly sessions for $450 - that's only $75 per session.  Far cheaper than a face-lift, right?  Try just one and you'll see the difference!

February also provides a delicious Cherry Cordial Facial - btw, we hear that this is Cupid's absolute favorite. Cherry Enzyme for exfoliation and brightening, paired with Dark Chocolate Mint Mask.  Can't you already just taste this?    You would love this February Facial all by it's self, but up until February 20 we are also giving a complimentary Celluma LED treatment, too!   

Another skincare treat for February is our Champagne and Cocoa Facial - not to drink, Darling, but to allow your skin to drink up pure oxygen and hydration.   This is like nothing you've ever had before.  Your skin is treated to a bubbling sensation, leaving your complexion dewy, glowing and rejuvenated - good for everyone, but especially beneficial to troubled and rosacea skin types.

Let me remind you about our special VIP days - Thursday and Friday evenings we are staying open late to accommodate our busy working professionals.   From 6 till 9 are VIP hours available for any 60 to 90 minute services only.

Spa 131 has just celebrated our THIRD BIRTHDAY!

 Woo Hoo!  We hate if you missed our birthday party.  Our special guest was Marley D'Lynn Stokes, Miss South Carolina Teen.   She was a jewel to pose with our guests for pics, chatted with us "regular folks" and even enjoyed her own massage treatment with Derek.  We love any opportunity to celebrate and THIS FRIDAY EVENING, February 5, will be open and participating with the First State Street Friday Art Crawl from 6-8.   Stop in the spa and take a look at our original art work on our walls and enjoy a glass of wine with us.  We have gorgeous paintings by Columbia's Artist, Lisa Puryear-Gibson, as well as our owners colorful paintings.  We will also be offering FREE 10 minute chair massages.

So here's a recap of February's Spa Specials:

Cellulma LED trx are complimentary with all MD Facials and free the following  through February 20 -

Cherry Cordial Facial - $79 (reg. $89)

Champagne & Cocoa Facial - $99 (reg. $110)

Couples Massage Treat Packages - including Chocolates & Roses, Champagne & Roses OR Renewal for Two includes Massage & Facial.  You'll need to call for prices and to schedule. Only 6 already reserved spots left for Valentine's Day booking.

Garden Mint Wrapassage - is a full body wrap for detox and hydration, combined with a 60 minute relaxing Swedish Style Massage - $99

That's all for this month.  We hope Cupid's arrow finds it's target for you and that you have love and joy all month long.

See you soon?

Cheers from all of us at Spa 131

Amy, Derek, Kandace, Kayla & Marci

Spa 131

131 State Street, West Columbia, SC  29169

803-251-9400

www.spa131.com