We made it through April Fool's Day without hearing news of April the Giraffe giving birth. I was absolutely SURE it was all a big April Fool's Gag. Oh well . . . then I'm the fool after all! I would love to hear if you got "fooled". Tell me all about it. I would love to share . . . if you'll allow it.
This issue will speak to two issues that have been spoken about quite a lot lately. The first issue is Why is regular skin care important and what is truly important. People fret about their weight and go to the gym on a regular basis. People discover fine lines around their eyes and fret over that, but ignore the fact that the skin in the largest organ of their body. Just applying a little lotion or creme on occasion or slopping on sunscreen before hitting the beach simply isn't enough.
So why a facial from a skin care professional? Well, you exercise and eat right. You regularly go to the hair salon or get your nails done frequently. You brush, floss and regularly see your dentist. You are obviously interested in looking your best. Professional skin care simply help us to age better! If there is a single cosmetic procedure that everyone could benefit from, it is regular professional facials.
Facials help to prevent and treat common issues and stay on top of things that happen seasonally. Every April, when the weather begins to heat up, skin can get oilier and create breakouts. Almost all professional facials consist of four basic steps: cleansing, exfoliating, messaging the face an neck. then a specific treatment like a masque for your specific skin type, LED therapy or High Frequency therapy.
The benefits are smoother texture to your complexion, proper hydration resulting in plumper skin, fewer breakouts and firmer, glowing skin. Don't believe it? Let's start with a photo and give your Esthetician 3-4 months of regular facials. We'll simply care pix. You'll see the proof with your own eyes on your own face.
Why monthly visits? It's science, friends. Your skin has it's own cycle of cellular turnover. As we age, that cellular turnover slows down and continues to slow year after year. Think about your little
Remember, too, facials are incredibly relaxing, but don't just feel good and help you chill. They also help to promote lymphatic drainage - which helps your body get rid of toxins, reduce fluid retention and stimulate circulation of blood, boosting oxygen directly to your skin cells. But . . . talk about relaxation . . . a facial is one of those "just lie still and do nothing" sort of relaxation.
Spa 131 has just got in AHHH-Mazing Dermovia Masks - Green Tea, Collagen and C-Q10. These are filled with Multi-Peptides and skin plumping/hydrating Hyaluronic Acid.
The second subject I'm addressing is what to expect at your spa visit. If it's your first time or if you're a "frequent flyer" spa etiquette is something everyone needs to know about. There are myths and misinformation floating around.
2) When contacting the spa, don't be afraid to ask questions and know that the spa will also have questions for you. A great spa experience should be their #1 goal, so asking questions related to your needs is extremely important. In addition, they are going to need your personal information including email, contact number and very likely a credit card to hold your appointment. Remember that the spa is reserving time just for you. They pre-prepare nearly everything. If you are a no-show, or cancel at the last minute, that therapist looses that time to schedule another guest,
3) Upon your first-time arrival, ask for a tour. You are going to want to see if it is clean and meets your expectations. If the spa is in service and treatment rooms are in use, it is reasonable to be unable to see treatment areas. You wouldn't want your own experience spoiled by someone just looking.
4) Be sure and ask about bundling services. Example: Massage and Facial. Body wrap with spray tanning, Facials with brow service or other waxings. The combinations are endless. You may also ask for lunch if your service falls within that time frame. Most spas can accommodate meal delivery.
5) It can be so disappointing to have a day off, call the spa for a service and find that they are already booked. If you have a particular day in mind to visit the spa, call early to book. If a spa is excellent, they do get booked up and it is hard to accommodate last-minute requests.
6) It's ok to ask what's going to happen in your particular service. Your comfort is very important to
7) If AT ANY TIME, you feel self-conscious or experience discomfort, or pain, immediately speak up and let your therapist know. Your comfort is the most important thing while in the spa, so never suffer in silence. That stands for every treatment you may receive, from massage and body work, to skin care, tanning or nail services.
8) DO NOT BE LATE to your visit. Most spa ask that you arrive no later than 15 minutes early. As a new-comer, you'll have forms to complete. Your health history is vital to providing excellent services. If you are late, your service will be shortened in order to not inconvenience other guests.
9) You may be required to provide credit card to hold your appointment, but you should never to expected to pay for a service up-front. If you cancel at the last minute or do not show up for your service, that credit card will be charged. While last-minute cancellations do happen, it is wise to ask for cancellation policies.
10) Avoid shaving for 24 hours if you are scheduled for a salt scrub or exfoliating services (including pedicures).
11) Check with your Medical Professional before your spa visit, if you are on medications that may be contraindicated, or if you are pregnant. Medical Release from your doctor will always alleviate concerns from both you and your spa professional.
12) It is OK to ask for a male or female therapist, if that is a concern.
14) Be aware of your senses - - - the sense of sound, smell, warmth, touch. When you concentrate on your senses, you'll relax. Relax and let the spa experience be all it can be.
15) Tipping is not required but is acceptable at at your discretion. The therapists at Spa 131 truly give 100% , It is acceptable and appreciated when you show your approval and appreciation.
16) Finally, provide feedback. Reviews are important in helping us provide the best service to you. Review sites are: Facebook, Google, Yelp, Tripadvisor and others. In addition, Spa 131 will randomly send out an opportunity to review a recent service.
If you loved your Spa 131 experience, please share with others. Personal recommendations are our favorite thing! If we disappointed in any way, please, please, please let us know. It might hurt, but we would rather have an opportunity to make things right rather than find out about it online.
So there's a lot of info here. I hope you learned something about professional skin care and what to expect with your spa visit. Have you booked your April visit? What are you waiting for? Go online to www.spa131.com and click in the upper right corner, "Reserve Today." Couldn't be easier.
We hope to see you soon, Friends.
Marci Delaney, Owner and Master Esthetician
Amy, Bailey, Brittany and Kat
131 State Street
in the Historic River District
West Columbia, SC 29169
803-251-9400
www.spa131.com
