Our Top Four Uses For Orange Essential Oil

Orange essential oil should not be overlooked as a one dimensional oil that just has a pleasant smell.  Gone are the days when people thought that essential oils are just a superficial enhancement to a Swedish massage.  We now know that essential oils are versatile beauties with uses ranging from cleaning the bathroom to washing your hair!  Most people tend to overlook Orange essential oil, perhaps because it's fruit is so common, however, we recently added this to our spa retail store in Boca Raton and wanted to take a deeper look.  

Before we get into the details, we just want to remind you of a few cautions when using Orange essential oil.  Firstly, please ensure you are not allergic before using it anywhere on your body.  Also, orange oil contains limonene which may cause irritation to your skin. For that reason, always use a base oil (grapeseed, jojoba or coconut oil) to dilute it when applying to your skin.  If you're in doubt, do a patch test to the inner side of your arm and see if you have a reaction.  It's good to know that essential oils are absorbed into the body via the nose and pores (hair follicle).  From there they enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body.  So whether you diffuse the oil or apply it to your body, it will enter your blood stream and for this reason we always want to be sensible and cautious!

Clients always ask us for essential oil uses so here's a quick list of our top four uses for Orange essential oil:

• Massage / Cellulite:  Ensure it is blended correctly with a base oil first.  Helps to eliminate toxins from the body.

It is a good diuretic and is most useful in balancing water retention and obesity. Its lymphatic stimulant action further helps to balance water processes, detoxification, aiding the immune system and general well-being.

• Insect Repellant:  Oranges generally contain an ingredient that wards off insects, ticks, flies and mosquitoes. Dab a piece of cotton wool with orange oil and place it in closets and cupboards to repel moths. You can even rub orange oil to your skin to prevent mosquito bites. If you are suffering from insect bites, using orange oil can take away the itching sensation and cool the area.
• Cleaning Agent:  Being a good anti-bacterial and anti-septic agent, sweet orange oil can be added to water in measurable drops and used as a household cleaner. You can make a spritzer by combining clean water, orange oil and Epsom salt. Spritz the mixture over kitchen countertops and table tops and wipe dry with a clean cloth. This is not only very eco-friendly, but also very cheap.
• Digestive Aid:  For the digestive system, orange oil can help with constipation, dyspepsia and as a general tonic.  Blend with a  base oil and apply to the stomach area or diffuse in an air diffuser.

Source:  http://www.essentialoils.co.za/essential-oils/orange.htm

Source:  http://healthmunsta.hubpages.com/hub/Benefits-of-Orange-Oil

Source:  http://www.naturalnews.com/029155_orange_essential_oils.html

Thanks for reading our blog on Orange essential oil and next time you're at the spa or having a massage, why not add a few drops and give it a try! 

Enjoy!

A Healthier Option For Stronger, Thicker Lashes

Everyday your eyelashes and brows are exposed to many challenges that cause them to break, fade, thin and fall out.  Shampoos, cleansers, mascaras, curlers, tinting, perms, sun, free radicals and the aging process can all contribute to unhealthy and weakened lashes and brows.

At Balance Spa we are always striving to find skin and body care solutions that don't harm or do further damage.  As it is, in this day and age we are constantly blasted by potentially harmful substances in our food, air and products.  If you've been looking for a way to enhance your lashes and brows in a healthier way, please read further.

Lash Advance is a unique blend of drug-free ingredients in a clear gel promotes the appearance of longer, fuller, thicker lashes and brows within weeks.  It will not irritate eyes and is suitable for use with contact lenses, eyelash extensions, permanent makeup and those that have had visual correction surgery.  It is drug-free; does not contain bimatoprost, a drug used to treat glaucoma and the active ingredient in prescription (Rx) lash growth products. Will not darken eyelids or change iris pigmentation.   Lash Advance is made of quality cosmeceutical ingredients, no parabens, petroleum products, or propylene glycol.  It is gentle and hypoallergenic for sensitive eyes.

Multi-Purpose
Lash Advance can be used on eyelashes, brows and eyelids. Works beautifully as a lash plumper under mascara. Also tightens wrinkled skin on the eyelids.   It is a clear gel that will not run, absorbs completely and cannot be felt on the skin.

Economical & Safe
Lash Advance costs significantly less than prescription (Rx) lash products.  It's efficacy and safety has been tested by Doctors to be gentle on the eyes and skin.

How Does It Work?
Lashes and brows grow from a vital portion of the skin called the follicle; a dynamic hub of cellular activity and life. Lash and brow fibers originate at a terminal point called the hair bulb where living dermal papilla cells divide and absorb melanin. The hair fiber is quite alive throughout the entire length of the hair follicle. Lash Advance is formulated and designed to penetrate the oily sebum layers of the follicle and deliver benefits to growing lashes and brows. Improvement and maintenance of follicle health correlates directly to healthier, thicker, younger looking lashes and brows. Lash Advance provides a safe and healthy way to help lashes and brows return to a healthy state.
 
Key Ingredients
Hexapeptide-11 (PeptiPlex®) - Restores health of lashes, helps amplify volume by strengthening lashes
Glycosaminoglycans - Promotes healthy follicle, softens brittle lashes
Peony Extract -Helps naturally restore weakened hair shaft, improves moisture retention to hair promoting healthier hair growth
Apple, Lemon, Sugar Cane Extract - Exfoliating action clears follicles of excess buildup of dead cells, allowing more room for thicker hair growth
Sugar Beet Betain - Promotes health of area where hair bulb resides, improves hair function
Green Tea - Antioxidant, protects hair from damage
Glycerin - Humectant, hydrates and plumps lashes
Castor Seed Oil - Softens dry, brittle lashes preventing breakage
Sodium Hyaluronate - Promotes long-lasting hydration, plumps lashes

Click here for a complete list of ingredients.

Source:  http://www.lashadvance.com/products.html

 

A New Sophisticated Non-Prescription Retinol for Signs of Aging

Undoubtedly one of the most well-known skin care treatment products -  Retinoic Acid/Retinol (derived from Vitamin A), and for good reason!  Retin-A, the prescription drug known generically as retinoic acid or tretinoin has a good deal of historical evidence to support its effectiveness, not to mention thousands of positive patient testimonials.  The real reason it’s been so popular is simple – it works!

How does Retinoic Acid work?

Retin-A (Retinoic Acid) does double duty in helping to boost collagen. It has the potential to stop photoaging before it starts. “The retinoids prevent the rise of collagenase after UV exposure,” Dr. Voorhees at the University of Michigan said. Collagenase is what breaks down collagen. But regular use of a retinoid product also increases the amount of new collagen formed, research has found, and that new collagen will last for years. Skin cells contain retinoid receptors that help regulate how the cell functions. As people age, their cells behave more erratically. “But consistent use of Retin-A helps normalize the cells,” said Dr. Min-Wei Christine Lee, a dermatologist in Walnut Creek, Calif.

What’s the Difference between Retinoic Acid and Retinol?

Only Retinoic Acid, has a direct biological effect on the skin, however fortunately for us, our skin has naturally occurring enzymes that convert Retinol and Retinyl Palmitate into the active form, Retinoic Acid. While it may take two and three steps to Retinoic Acid, they can deliver the well-established skin benefits of Retinoic Acid while producing fewer side effects.

New Retinol Superstar - Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR)

At The International Dermal Institute they have discovered a new patented molecule, that is an ester of Retinoic Acid and works similar to Tretinoin (Retin–A) but without the irritation. Unlike Retinoic Acid, results of the standard RIPT (Repeat Insult Patch Test) skin irritation test showed no irritation after 21 days of continual use. And because it is not a drug it can be used in cosmetic products. Results of a two week study showed that a 0.1% concentration of HPR applied topically gave a 50% improvement in skin roughness and a 40% improvement in skin surface scaling, an indicator of dryness. No irritation was evident in any of the test subjects. And unlike Retinol and other derivatives that must be converted to the biologically active form of Retinoic Acid, HPR binds directly with Retinoid receptors to initiate a response (i.e. cell proliferation and differentiation) in the skin.  Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate represents a new generation of Retinoids that will no doubt be continually researched for their positive impact on the skin especially in addressing skin aging.

Overnight Retinol Repair by Dermalogica

·       Highly-active, 0.5% microencapsulated Retinol (HPR). 

Helps increase collagen production and cell turnover for visibly firmer, smoother skin. Advanced microencapsulation technology stabilizes Retinol and maximizes absorption and effectiveness over time.

·       Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 and TAUT peptides
Help stimulate collagen production for firmer, more evenly-toned skin.

·       Antioxidant Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C)
Helps stimulate collagen synthesis and reduce skin discoloration.

·       Bioenergized Copper amino acid complex
Shown to reduce visible wrinkles and improve skin firmness.

·       Ceramides and active Polysaccharides
Hydrate and prevent water loss in the skin, helping to soften fine lines.

·       Lavender and antioxidant Licorice Root
Helps soothe skin and calm irritation.

At Balance Spa we have received extremely positive feedback from our clients on the efficacy of the Overnight Retinol Repair.  Reports of tightening, improved hydration, decrease in sun spots and improvement in overall tone.  Next time you are in for a facial or massage, please ask one of our trained estheticians to tell you more about this revolutionary new product.  One of the exciting aspects of the Overnight Retinol Repair is the ability to control the strength by combining it with a buffer cream.  This is a great way to ease into it and still get all of the benefits without feeling overly sensitive. 

Who Should Not Use Retinoic Acid/Retinol?

·       Don't use a retinoid if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

·       Benzoyl peroxide and alpha hydroxy acids may deactivate retinoids, so don't layer them.

·       Waxing can cause excess redness on retinoid-treated skin; don't use a retinoid for several days before a treatment.

·       A small percentage of people with ultrasensitive skin can never tolerate a retinoid; if you're one of them, use a gentle physical exfoliator twice a week to soften your skin, and be extra-conscientious about sunscreen to prevent collagen loss in the first place

Sources: 

https://www.dermalinstitute.com/us/news/?tag=retinoic-acid

http://www.dermalinstitute.com/us/news/?s=retinol+benefits+voorhees

http://www.oprah.com/style/Retinoid-Skin-Creams-Why-You-Should-Use-a-Retinoid#ixzz3hxn4p3tj

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/11/30/fashion/30skin.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0

Our Case Study on Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT)

I know what you’re thinking - “is this another one of those facial treatments that overpromises and under delivers??”  We thought the same thing and that’s why we always do an in-house case study at Balance Spa before offering a new treatment to our clients.  In this blog I’m going to tell you exactly what we did to our Collagen Induction Therapy “test subject” and what the results were.

For those who are not familiar with CIT, it is also known as Micro Needling.  Very briefly, it is a facial treatment that uses fine needles to penetrate the skin causing a micro injury which in turn causes increased production of collagen and elastin (amongst other things) resulting in a firmer, plumper skin with diminished lines, scarring and pigmentation.  There are many factors involved with performing this treatment but for the sake of not getting too technical, let me just say that I spent about 3 months doing my homework on this treatment.  I poured over the work of world renowned CIT pioneer Dr. Lance Setterfield, MD, (https://twitter.com/microneedlinged) researched multiple CIT devices and completed several hands on training classes before deciding this is a treatment I wanted to offer my clients.  Although the before and after pictures were extremely compelling, it was ultimately the theory behind the principle of CIT that really convinced me this would be benefit my clients.  We decided to go with the Rejuvapen (http://rejuvapen.com/) since our research convinced us that this was the safest and most effective device on the market.  We called and personally spoke with several independent medical spa facilities that are using the Rejuvapen and their feedback was all positive.

On April 23 I did the first treatment on our test subject (Mr. P).  (For optimal results a series of 3 treatments over three months is ideal.)  Mr P’s main complaint was deep acne scarring that he had had since childhood.  The scarring was fairly deep and it bothered him intensely.  The session took approximately 40 – 60 minutes and is generally not painful as long as the skin has been numbed correctly beforehand.  Mr. P however, had an extremely high pain tolerance and would frequently fall asleep during the treatment!  I’m thinking that perhaps he was sleep deprived since this is definitely not the “norm”.  During the treatment I focused on the areas of concern and adjusted the needle depth appropriately as is allowed within my scope of practice. 

The one aspect of CIT that I’m always very upfront about is this:  Do not expect any visible results after the first treatment; in fact your skin may initially look worse.  Be prepared.  Increased collagen production occurs over time and that is why it is recommended that CIT is done in monthly intervals. 

Mr. P’s second treatment was done on May 21 and the third on June 25.  Spacing the treatments out allows your body to go through the healing process, thus enabling the formation of new collagen and elastin.  Something else that is important is home care.  In order to achieve the desired results, you must support your skin through the healing process.

We were extremely happy with the outcome, as there was a significant reduction in the depth of Mr. P’s acne scarring in multiple areas and also in the overall pigmentation of his skin.  In my opinion, well worth the investment of time and money.  Mr. P’s response to the overall outcome was as follows:

“At first I was a bit skeptical about this treatment. I have had these scars for most of my life and did not think that anything could help. The idea of needles going into my face sounded painful however to my surprise I didn't really feel much, granted a numbing cream is applied before the treatment. After the first treatment I didn't see much of a difference. After the second treatment I noticed good results and was excited to get my last treatment. A few weeks after my last treatments I noticed the results and am very happy with them. I do believe it was worth the time and money.  P.S. I was not sleep deprived. Lol”

Below is a before and after of our test subject after three sessions over the course of three months.  As you can see, the depth of the scar is significantly reduced, as is the width.  I would highly recommend CIT for anyone with acne scarring or looking to firm and lift their skin in a subtle yet effective way.  Since treating Mr. P, I have performed CIT on multiple clients with issues ranging from loss of elasticity, lines and wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.  Some are still in the middle of their treatment times, but their results have been very positive!  If you’re interested in receiving the benefits of CIT, please call in and schedule a complimentary CIT consultation with me and I will be more than happy to share more details on expected outcomes as well as the treatment process, and any other questions you may have.  Skin care is my passion and I would love to share my knowledge with you.

 

Since this blog was posted, we have completed another series of four treatments with a few more clients and are happy to say that we are having great results!  Our client kindly forwarded this before and after photo's to share her results which she has been extremely happy with!  Thank you "E"

Skin Care Awareness – Are Microbeads in Your Skin Care Polluting Oceans & Waterways?

Who would have thought that the tiny microbeads often found in cleansers, scrubs, soaps and toothpastes could be polluting the ocean when washed down the drain?  According to a study published in the Marine Pollution Bulletin, high concentrations of microplastics of similar size, shape, texture and composition to plastic microbeads found in consumer products were found in the Great Lakes.  But that’s just one water way, these plastic microbeads are causing pollution problems in oceans and waterways worldwide. 

According to BeatTheMicroBead.org, a website created by The 5 Gyres Institute to raise awareness of the issue, a single product can contain thousands of micro 

beads and they could constitute up to 10 percent by volume of a single product.

How Do I Know Which Products Contain Microbeads?

Products that list polyethylene or polypropylene on the label contain microbeads.  You can also download the Beat the Microbead app, which allows users to easily check if a product contains microbeads by scanning the product’s barcode.

What Other Product Options Are There?

There is an array of fantastic natural and sustainable alternatives to plastic microbeads available today.  Instead of using plastic beads, consider other natural options like scrubs with ground-up seeds and stone pits from fruits or crushed walnut husks, oats, coffee grounds, salt, bamboo powder and sugar.  Rest assured that none of the products we retail or use in our skin and body care treatments at Balance Spa contain microbeads.  Also consider that enzymes and acids are other ingredients that can effectively exfoliate your skin without damaging the environment.  Next time you come in for your facial or body treatment, ask us about the ingredients in our exfoliation products.  We believe that knowledge is power and by educating our clients we can all contribute to a more balanced environment. 

Source:  American Spa Magazine, July 2015, Nicole Altavilla