Looking to boost your protein and nutrients without doing a full diet overhaul? These five easy-to-grab foods are said to be great additions to your daily routine and can help you feel more energized and nourished with minimal effort.
1. Berries – Antioxidant Powerhouses
Berries like blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are said to be rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. They may help support skin health, reduce inflammation, and aid digestion. Add them to your smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, or enjoy them on their own.
Pro Tip: Frozen berries are just as nutritious as fresh ones and last longer!
2. Tofu – Plant-Based Protein
If you’re vegan or simply cutting back on meat and dairy, tofu is said to be an excellent source of plant-based protein, iron, and often calcium (especially if fortified). You can grill it, bake it, or even dip it in a good hot sauce or barbecue sauce as a quick snack.
Extra-firm tofu is best for grilling or pan-frying.
3. non vegan choice Cottage Cheese – High-Protein Dairy Option
Cottage cheese is said to be rich in protein, especially casein, which may digest more slowly and help you feel full longer. It’s a great option if you don’t have a dairy intolerance and don’t deal with acne.
Note: Some people say dairy contributes to breakouts. If that’s the case for you, consider swapping it for tofu or a great protein powder. Like this one
4. Bananas – Potassium-Rich Energy Boost
Bananas are a go-to on-the-go snack. They’re said to be high in potassium, which may support heart health and muscle function. They also contain magnesium and vitamin B6, and their natural sugars can offer a quick energy lift.
Pairing a banana with nuts makes for a satisfying, balanced snack.
5. Nuts – Healthy Fats & Sustained Energy
Nuts like almonds, cashews, walnuts, or pistachios are said to be packed with healthy fats, protein, fiber, and key minerals like magnesium and zinc. A small handful can help keep you full and focused.
Snack idea: Try a banana with almond butter or a handful of mixed nuts for a nutrient-packed duo.
If you’re looking for a unique way to rejuvenate and chill in Niagara Falls . I would recommend a visit to the local salt caves. Recently, I had the opportunity to experience halo therapy and a hand and foot detox, and it was an a lovely experience. From the moment I stepped inside, the peaceful ambiance set the tone for a restorative session. Let me take you through what I experienced, the benefits of halo therapy, and how the hand and foot detox can work wonders for your well-being and your stress levels.
What is Halo Therapy?
Halo therapy, also known as salt therapy, is a natural treatment that uses dry salt inhalation to promote better respiratory health . During the session, you sit and relax in a room made entirely of salt (think Himalayan salt walls, salt lamps, and salt floors), while a halo generator disperses finely-ground salt particles into the air. As you breathe in these tiny salt particles, your respiratory system is gently cleansed and rejuvenated. Halo therapy is often sought for its numerous health benefits, and it’s the perfect way to unwind while doing something good for your body.
The Health Benefits of Halo Therapy
Supports Respiratory Health Halo therapy is well-known for its ability to support respiratory function. The inhaled salt particles can help reduce mucus, lower inflammation, and open up airways. This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions such as asthma, allergies, sinusitis, or bronchitis. It may even help ease symptoms of the common cold or other upper respiratory infections.
Promotes Skin Health The therapeutic effects of salt aren’t just limited to the lungs. Halo therapy can also benefit the skin by improving conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. The salt helps reduce inflammation and promotes the regeneration of healthy skin cells.
Enhances Relaxation and Stress Relief The peaceful environment of the salt cave itself is calming, and halo therapy promotes relaxation by improving blood circulation and oxygen intake. The experience of deep breathing and mindfulness during the session can significantly reduce stress levels, promoting an overall sense of well-being.
May Improves Sleep Quality For those who suffer from sleep issues, halo therapy can be an excellent aid. By clearing the airways and reducing inflammation in the body, it can encourage more restful, uninterrupted sleep.
The Hand and Foot Detox
In addition to the halo therapy session, I also did the hand and foot detox. The detox treatment involves putting your hands and feet on a salt rock that is warmed up. This gentle yet effective method is designed to improve circulation, support the lymphatic system, and leave you feeling less stressed
What are the Benefits of a Hand and Foot Detox?
Detoxification The primary benefit of a hand and foot detox is its ability to help remove toxins from the body. By using ionized water, the detox process stimulates the body’s natural elimination systems, helping to rid the body of harmful substances and promoting a sense of clarity and balance.
promotes relaxation it also reduces swelling and stiffness
Improves Skin Health The detox can help cleanse the body at a deeper level, which can lead to improved skin health. Whether it’s through the removal of toxins and it also helps with callous
review of My Visit to the Salt Cave in Niagara Falls
I was struck by its peaceful ambiance. The lighting, the soothing sound of calming music, and the subtle salt-filled air created a truly serene atmosphere. Whether it’s for respiratory health, relaxation, or simply a unique experience, halo therapy is a fantastic option, and the added hand and foot detox was the cherry on top.
The combination of therapeutic salt therapy and detoxing treatments made for an incredible experience that I left feeling refreshed and relaxed. If you’re in the Falls and looking for a stress-free way to rejuvenate, a visit to the salt cave is definitely worth considering! They also have other treatments such as salt baths and massages. You might want to explore.
Recently, I found myself in Montreal, and, as always, I couldn’t resist seeking out the best smoothie spots in town. Let me tell you, I stumbled upon a gem—Shaka Club, located right next to the Val Center. If you ever find yourself in the area, it’s a must-visit for smoothie lovers, especially if you’re into healthy skin and brain-boosting ingredients.
I tried two incredible smoothies during my visit, and I’m so excited to share them with you! The first one was their Detox Smoothie, which was packed with charcoal—a miracle ingredient for anyone struggling with acne. Charcoal works wonders by pulling impurities out of your body, leaving your skin feeling fresh and clear. Not only that, but the detox properties help cleanse your system, giving you a natural, healthy glow. This smoothie was on the less sweet side, which I actually loved because it felt refreshing and super clean.
The second smoothie I tried was their Skin Smoothie, which, let me tell you, was the perfect balance of sweet and nutritious. It’s loaded with ingredients that promote healthy skin—think vitamins, antioxidants, and hydration. After sipping this one, my skin definitely felt nourished, and I loved how it kept me glowing all day. Plus, the texture was velvety smooth, making each sip feel like a treat!
A Brain Boost with Muccuna Something I found particularly intriguing at Shaka Club was that they also featured Mokuna in their smoothies. If you haven’t heard of it, Mokuna is a powerful supplement known for supporting brain health. It’s packed with adaptogenic herbs and natural ingredients that help reduce stress, improve focus, and boost cognitive function. If you’re looking to sharpen your mind and reduce anxiety, Mokuna could be your new best friend!
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I’m definitely going to be diving into a smoothie series, trying out various spots to see what’s new and exciting in the world of healthy drinks. Stay tuned if you’re a fellow smoothie junkie! And, if you’re looking to recreate some of these healthy drinks at home, I’ll be updating my Healthy Smoothies on the Go for a Healthy Glow PDF soon. You’ll get all the best ingredients to whip up your own glowing, brain-boosting smoothies at home.
In conclusion, if you’re in Montreal, don’t miss Shaka Club. Whether you’re detoxing, looking for a skin boost, or simply want a delicious and refreshing drink, they’ve got you covered. And, who knows—maybe you’ll spot a few local hockey players there too! Wouldn’t that be fun?
As the cold weather sets in, our skin faces numerous challenges. The dry, harsh winter air can strip your skin of moisture, leading to increased dryness, irritation, and inflammation. That’s why it’s essential to incorporate certain skincare ingredients into your routine to keep your skin hydrated, calm, and nourished. In this blog post, we’ll cover four powerful ingredients that are especially beneficial during the winter months: Hyaluronic Acid, Arnica, Aloe Vera, and Seabuckthorn Oil.
1. Hyaluronic Acid: A Winter Moisture Savior
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance in the body that is known for its extraordinary ability to retain moisture. It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it one of the most effective hydrating ingredients for your skin. As we age, the natural production of hyaluronic acid decreases, which can lead to dry, dull, and wrinkled skin.
What does hyaluronic acid do for the skin?
For those between the ages of 25 and 45, incorporating hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine helps maintain your skin’s moisture levels. It deeply hydrates the skin, making it plump and youthful. HA works by drawing moisture from the environment into your skin, which is especially beneficial during the winter months when the cold air is drying. When used regularly, it can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, enhance skin elasticity, and provide a smooth, supple texture.
Benefits for winter skincare:
Hydrates and retains moisture
Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Plumps and smooths the skin
Protects the skin’s natural moisture barrier
2. Arnica: Nature’s Healing Herb
Arnica is an herb that has been used for centuries for its healing properties. It’s especially known for its ability to reduce bruising, swelling, and inflammation. When applied topically, arnica can help reduce the redness and irritation often caused by winter’s harsh elements.
Why is arnica healing for the skin?
Arnica contains compounds called flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These compounds promote healing and stimulate circulation, which can help the skin recover from irritation or injury. Arnica is commonly used in skincare for its ability to reduce puffiness, swelling, and even dark spots from blemishes.
Benefits for winter skincare:
Reduces redness and inflammation
Calms irritated or sensitive skin
Speeds up healing time for bruises or skin injuries
Helps with puffiness and swelling
Healthline Fact: Studies have shown that arnica can be effective in treating bruising and swelling, especially after cosmetic procedures like facials or chemical peels.
3. Aloe Vera: Soothing Relief for Dry, Irritated Skin
Aloe vera is often regarded as a cooling, soothing remedy for burns, but it offers so much more. Aloe is packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that help nourish and heal the skin. It has potent anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great ingredient for calming redness, irritation, and dryness—common skin issues during the winter months.
How is aloe anti-inflammatory and healing for the skin?
Aloe vera contains a compound called acemannan, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties. When applied topically, aloe helps to reduce swelling and irritation caused by dry, chapped skin. It also has healing properties, which can speed up the recovery of cracked or inflamed skin.
Benefits for winter skincare:
Hydrates and soothes dry skin
Reduces inflammation and redness
Helps heal damaged or irritated skin
Provides cooling relief for sunburns (if you’re still exposed to the sun during winter)
4. SeaBuckthorn Oil: Nourishing Oil for Breakouts and Sensitive Skin
For those prone to acne or skin sensitivities, buckthorn oil is a fantastic, natural oil to incorporate into your winter skincare regimen. Known for its healing properties, sea buckthorn oil is rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamins that are perfect for replenishing the skin.
Why is buckthorn oil beneficial for acne-prone and sensitive skin?
Buckthorn oil is unique in that it contains a high concentration of omega-7 fatty acids, which are known for their ability to promote skin regeneration. This oil also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it an excellent choice for soothing acne-prone skin. It reduces redness, soothes inflammation, and provides deep nourishment without clogging pores.
Benefits for winter skincare:
Reduces redness and inflammation in acne-prone skin
Heals dry, cracked skin
Hydrates without clogging pores
Rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids
Why These Ingredients Matter in Winter Skincare
Winter can be particularly tough on your skin. The cold weather, combined with indoor heating, can cause dehydration, redness, and sensitivity. Incorporating these ingredients into your daily skincare routine can make a world of difference in keeping your skin healthy, hydrated, and radiant during the colder months.
Whether you’re looking to replenish lost moisture with hyaluronic acid, calm irritation with aloe or arnica, or heal your skin with buckthorn oil, these natural ingredients are your winter skincare allies.
Conclusion
Taking care of your skin during the winter months requires a thoughtful approach with ingredients that not only hydrate but heal and protect. By incorporating hyaluronic acid, arnica, aloe vera, and buckthorn oil, you can maintain a healthy, glowing complexion through the coldest months of the year.
Stay warm, stay hydrated, and treat your skin to these nourishing ingredients for a radiant winter glow!
Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting a charming spa in Old Montreal, right by the water SCANDINAVE SPA
VIEUX.MONTDÉAL—I’ll confirm the exact name soon!). It was such a cozy, tranquil spot, and I decided to try both a Swedish and a therapeutic massage during my visit.
The first session was a Swedish massage, and I have to say, I felt so comfortable and relaxed throughout the experience. My therapist, a lovely woman, mentioned that I had a lot of tension in my neck, which made me want to go back the next day to address it. So, I returned for a therapeutic massage, which was with a man. Now, don’t get me wrong—he was great and very skilled, but I just found the dynamic a bit awkward. It might sound silly, but I felt that men sometimes hold back on applying enough pressure, thinking it might be too much for women. My girlfriend said she feels the same way, and I can see why!
While the therapeutic massage was definitely focused on relieving tension (especially in my shoulders), it felt more like a full-body treatment, which wasn’t quite what I was hoping for. I really just wanted to target the shoulders and neck, but the experience was still helpful overall in reducing muscle tightness. However, for sheer relaxation and comfort, I’d highly recommend the Swedish massage! It’s more fun, gentle, and perfect for unwinding, while the therapeutic one is more suited for those with specific muscle pain or tension.
One of the best parts of the spa experience was the circuit they offer after your massage. You get two hours to enjoy various water treatments, saunas, and even hot/cold plunges. I did a hot-cold cycle, which felt amazing, although I didn’t spend much time in the cold! Afterward, I really noticed the difference—my skin was glowing, my legs felt a bit more toned, and my shoulders definitely felt less tense. It was such a rejuvenating experience!
So, if you’re heading to this spa in Old Montreal (especially if you’re looking for relaxation), I’d say go for the Swedish massage. It’s the ideal choice if you want to de-stress and just feel pampered. If you need more targeted tension relief, though, the therapeutic one is great, but it’s better if you really have specific pain to address. Also, just a personal preference—I’d recommend booking with a female therapist if you’re a woman, but that’s just me! Both experiences were wonderful, though, and I definitely left feeling like a new person.
The Benefits of Getting a Massage
Stress Relief: Massage is well-known for helping reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels in the body and triggering a relaxation response. This makes it perfect for winding down and clearing your mind after a busy week.
Improved Circulation: Massages help boost blood flow, which can improve oxygen delivery to tissues and promote faster recovery from physical exertion.
Pain Relief: Whether you’re dealing with muscle soreness, tension headaches, or chronic pain, regular massages can target these problem areas and help ease discomfort.
Skin Benefits Not only does massage help relieve tension, but it also has fantastic benefits for your skin. It improves circulation, which helps with lymphatic drainage and can reduce puffiness and bloating. The stimulation of your skin also encourages collagen production, which helps with skin elasticity and gives it a healthier, firmer appearance. After a massage, my skin was visibly smoother and brighter, and I noticed a clearer complexion. Plus, the circulation boost can help with detoxifying the skin by flushing out toxins, leaving your face and body feeling rejuvenated.
If you’ve been in the beauty world long enough like me, you’ve likely tried a few treatments to enhance your appearance. I’ve certainly explored my share of options, and recently, I’ve been reflecting on the highs and lows of my beauty journey. One treatment I would highly NOT recommend is Ultherapy—and it’s a story that I think is worth sharing. Not mine but a close friend.
A friend of mine tried Ultherapy at a local med spa. The idea behind this treatment is to boost collagen production through ultrasound technology, which is marketed to help lift and tighten skin. It sounded promising, but after going through her procedure, she noticed some volume loss in my face months later, which was particularly concerning because they already had a petite face. I realized that if you’re a thinner person … this might not be the best fit for your beauty goals.
It’s possible that the treatment was new at the spa and wasn’t as refined as it could have been, but this experience led me to take a deeper look into how treatments like Ultherapy affect different people—especially those with thinner faces. This journey sparked an idea: why not share these experiences to help others avoid bad advice and prevent beauty blunders?
I dig into beauty treatments—both the good and the not-so-good—and share expert advice on how to confidently navigate the beauty industry. It’s not just about looking good on the outside, but also about feeling great inside, too. I believe that when you truly love yourself, inside and out, you show up better in every area of your life. So, it’s disheartening when you spend money on a treatment with the expectation of feeling better, only to end up feeling worse. Thats why I started my passion for skin consulting and my book.
Ultherapy, in particular, can be a tricky treatment to navigate. As it’s a non-invasive skin-tightening procedure, it has been marketed as a facelift alternative, but it might not be the right choice for everyone, especially if you’re on the thinner side and already have a delicate facial structure.
What Is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy uses ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen production beneath the skin’s surface. It’s designed to lift and tighten skin, especially around the face, neck, and chest. The procedure involves using ultrasound energy to target deeper layers of the skin, which helps to tighten and firm the tissue. While it’s non-invasive and doesn’t require surgery, Ultherapy can still result in some discomfort and, as I experienced, can lead to volume loss in people with a naturally leaner face.
Key Facts About Ultherapy
What it targets: Ultherapy is typically used for tightening and lifting the skin on the face, neck, and chest, particularly for individuals who are starting to see signs of sagging and loose skin.
How it works: It uses focused ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production deep beneath the skin. This process can help firm and tighten skin over time.
Treatment Duration: A single session usually lasts between 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the area being treated.
Recovery Time: There’s minimal downtime after an Ultherapy treatment, with some patients experiencing redness or swelling for a few hours.
Results: While results can vary from person to person, most people start to notice lifting and tightening in about 2 to 3 months after treatment as collagen begins to rebuild. The full effects can take up to six months.
Should You Try Ultherapy?
While Ultherapy has worked for some, I would urge caution if you’re someone with a more petite or thinner face. Since Ultherapy’s goal is to lift and tighten, it can sometimes lead to volume loss, which might make your features look more hollow or gaunt. It’s important to consult with your provider about whether this treatment is right for your specific needs. And remember, just because a treatment is popular doesn’t mean it’s the best option for everyone.
As I’ve learned firsthand, the beauty industry is full of potential pitfalls, and it’s easy to be swayed by the latest trends. That’s why I continue to record episodes of Reawakening Beauty, where I talk about the best ways to enhance your beauty while protecting your confidence.
Remember, self-love and confidence come from within, and when you take care of yourself—both mentally and physically—you’ll show up better in every part of your life. I hope my story helps you avoid any missteps and empowers you to make more informed choices on your beauty journey.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more on Reawakening Beauty.
Montreal did not disappoint. Many people are on the go and don’t get to truly pause and enjoy a place in its full beauty. But Montreal? It’s like a dream for anyone who loves culture, architecture, and of course, self-care should come to montreal.
My day started at the cutest nail salon, LYLY Nails—and I can’t recommend it enough! The moment I walked in, I felt completely at ease. The team there is so welcoming and made me feel like a queen. I decided to go for a custom design, and wow, they exceeded all my expectations. My cuticles have never looked so perfect, and the whole experience was just so relaxing. I have fabulous nails, thanks to them!
But it doesn’t stop there. As I was walking around, I stumbled upon a beautiful spa right next door, Dermalogica, which immediately caught my attention. Fun fact: I actually started training to work with Dermalogica a while back, even considering carrying their products. Though I didn’t finish that course (life happened), I’m always down to chat about skincare—and that’s exactly what happened here. I met the lovely Rebecca, one of their skincare experts, and we got into the details about all things skin. If you know me, you know I could talk skincare for hours, but Rebecca? She could probably out-geek me. We had a great convo about natural ways to care for your skin, and I picked up some samples to try out (stay tuned for my thoughts on them!).
Many get all sorts of cutting-edge treatments, from micro-needling to cryotherapy lasers. Some work for tightening skin initially, but over time, People can start noticing some loss of volume, When using the wrong treatments. I’ve been focusing on restoring elasticity for my clients and learning new treatments to help with this process and chatting with Rebecca about some natural methods felt like a refreshing. It remind me of how important it is to nurture your skin from within. I’m all about that healthy glow that comes from the inside out, which is why I wrote my recipe book on it!
After some skincare chit chat, I decided to take a stroll through Old Montreal—such a magical place! The cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and cozy vibe make it a must-see. But then, the weather turned on me, and the snow started falling. Not one to let a little snow ruin my day, I made my way back to my hotel for some warmth.
For dinner, I went to the cutest vegan sushi spot “bloom” which was a total gem. The food was absolutely delicious, and I can’t wait to share the name with you once I dig it up (because trust me, you’ll want to visit). To finish it all off, I grabbed a hot chocolate to warm up—perfect for a snowy evening.
To wrap up my day, I treated myself to a luxurious body scrub at the hotel spa. Honestly, if you’re in Montreal and want to unwind, these are definitely some places to check out for a day of relaxation, skincare, and delicious eats.
I also saw the Habs play so much fun!
If you’re on a healing journey, or just want to treat yourself, Montreal offers so many spots to relax and rejuvenate. I’m already looking forward to my next visit!
We are continuing the conversation on breakouts because I have a lot to say about acne. If that’s something you are struggling with, keep reading.
Here are some do’s and don’ts for acne. If you have acne, sometimes less is more especially with active breakouts. I believe that anyone with active breakouts should do a double cleanse. Having a makeup remover is essential because congestion is trapped dirt and oil and a make remover helps to eliminate this congestion. So you want to make sure that you’re using something to properly cleanse your skin. I recommend using a makeup remover to get your off your sunscreen and make up. Next you will cleanse with a regular cleanser.
Ideally you should have a makeup remover, a cleanser, and a toner because depending on which cleanser you have it raises the pH balance of the skin. Finally use a moisturizer, using a non clogging, over top, spa treatment that is non comedogenic would probably be a great place to start.
After this you can then start to assess what’s really happening with your skin. Now everybody’s acne is so different, for some people they thought they had acne, however they discovered over the years that it was in fact rosacea. Rosacea and acne can sometimes seem very similar, in fact they can actually look very similar too. Both acne and rosacea can look like active pustules, so if you are dealing with this issue on your skin make sure you know which skin issue you have. I’ve talked a lot about exfoliating the skin and being careful to not over exfoliate because we all have a natural barrier on our skin. If you strip away too much of your barrier, basically this is what’s protecting your skin, you can make it more vulnerable and than it will start to break out and produce more oil. So if you are struggling with this issue, make sure that you’re not overly stripping your skin because in fact it will start to produce more oil.
It is also important to understand your skin type better. There are so many different skin types that we all have. One common misconception is that sensitivity is a type of skin, this is in fact not true. The types of skin are oily, combination, normal and dry. There’s different conditions that we can have for the skin, so understanding your skin type is super essential to combating your acne. If you would like to learn more about your specific skin type or if you have any questions about the products you’re using then reach out to me or book a personalized one-on-one skin consultation through my website.
It is also very important to understand if you have any underlying issues, so always check things such as your hormone levels to make sure they’re balanced.
Regarding your cleanser, you’ll definitely need to use an oil based cleanser to remove your makeup and sunscreen. Oil is basically the only thing that’s really going to get off your makeup. If you don’t like oil there are some bombs that will emulsify into an oil and that’s really going to break down your makeup and sunscreen. Once you have removed all of that your skin can breathe a little bit more which will help reduce or limit your active breakouts.
So in conclusion, these are some simple tips that you can do to help with active acne breakouts; use a cleanser, a toner, ideally a moisturizer, a spot treatment and a sunscreen. That’s where I would start and then if your skin doesn’t improve, I would recommend looking at things like your hormones, your stress levels, and the foods you’re eating. I hope you found this blog helpful and if you would like a personalized skin assessment and recommendations you can contact me or book a personalized skin consultation through my website.
Microneedling is a skin care treatment and/or procedure that repeatedly punctures the skin or scalp with tiny, sterile needles in order to help build collagen by creating a bit of trauma using micro punctures in the skin, thus forcing the skin to heal itself. This is also known as CIT (collagen induction therapy) or skin needling. It has a few sister treatments that I will share soon so stay tuned on the @reawakeningbeautyblog.
What are the Benefits of Microneedling
The benefits of microneedling have been said to help with pore size, fine lines, skin density, pigmentation, texture, youthfulness, uneven skin tone and when used on the scalp hair growth.
Who is Microneedling for?
Microneedling is for people who are concerned with aging such as issues listed above as well as anyone who wants to maintain their skin in a natural way. As we age it is said we start to lose collagen at the age of 25 as our cells start to slow down. This treatment is said to help produce collagen so it would be perfect for someone looking for a collagen induction treatment or skin prevention treatment of premature aging.
Who Should Not Have Microneedling?
People who are acne prone people with active breakouts, in my opinion this will puncture the breakouts and spread bacteria to other areas of your face causing more breakouts. I would not recommend this treatment for people who hate needles. If you are on blood thinners or are a cancer patient in radiation or chemo, this treatment is not recommended for you. If you have done botox and filler in the month or if you have done another intense facial. Always tell the facialist and or doctor if you are considering this treatment of any allergies or health issues.
Reawakening Beauty Guidelines for Picking a Quality Place…Who should you go to?
I highly recommend finding a reputable person you trust who has a clean, sterile environment, has been educated and has been working in the practice for a while. Ensure they have a degree and are a board certified dermatologist, nurse or medical aesthetician who has been working for more than a year. You can also check if you can view their own before and after photos from previous clients.
Beauty Expert Pre-Treatment: How Should I Prepare for my Microneedling Appointment?
In order to prepare for this treatment, the week before ensure you come off actives such as retinol. Also plan it carefully with your schedule as you will need to take two days off make up & a week prior to a major events. Also plan to stay out of the sun afterwards for a week after.
What is the Procedure for Microneedling
Most places use a microneedling pen in the office or a roller if done at home, which I personally do not recommend the at home version as you could tear the skin or cause an infection if you don’t know what you are doing. There is a sister treatment which is similar but stay tuned for my next facial article in the coming weeks and my new podcast episodes.
What to Expect from a Beauty Expert?
They should start by asking a series of questions (listed below )
Reawakening Beauty Expert Guidelines a Professional Should Ask:
Are you on any blood thinners?
Are you on any medication?
Do you have any filler?
Do you have any allergies to numbing agents?
When was your last beauty treatment filler appointment or facial such as beauty booster or laser?
Are you using retinol
They will start by thoroughly cleansing your face and then applying a topical freezing agent on you. After the freezing has taken affect they will begin by using the pen with a clean, new tip. The pen will have different settings such as the speed and the depth of skin treatment. These settings will be decided based on your skin sensitivity and if you are new to the procedure. They will run it over your face causing a bit of redness, by creating micro punctures, remember your face should be numbed beforehand and your skin should be cleaned.
Beauty Expert Post-Treatment: What Should I Expect After Microneedling?
You may be a bit red with tiny prick marks, sometimes your face might be slightly more puffy hence no big dates that night or next day.
Be sure not to use make up for at least 12 to 24 hours after the treatment. Also avoid excessive heat or exercise for 24 to 48 hours after. Use hydration after care products, these are often given from the office with simple, non-active ingredients such as real hyaluronic acid or calming ingredients. 24 hours after, use sunscreen I always choose a mineral based one and serum for a week or a gentle moisturizer that won’t clog your pores. Avoid actives like retinol and vitamin C for about a week afterwards as well. And lastly, don’t exfoliate for 72 hours. Often these places will give you a post treatment kit or serum so you dont use the wrong thing.
Reawakening Beauty Expert Recommendation
I personally have done microneedling and from a cost, effective standpoint I think microneedling is amazing. With multiple treatments it’s better for your bank account and just as effective than very expensive treatments, if you work with a great provider. Stay tuned for the next blog talking about the beauty booster facial.
Hi everyone! Welcome to the Reawakening Beauty blog.
My name is Shawna Patruno and I have a passion for helping people feel confident in their skin. The reason why I’m so passionate about this topic is because, I didn’t always feel confident in my skin and this is a journey I’m still on, I’m not going say I’m 100% but I’m working on it daily. My background is in beauty and also I have a history of modeling. Some of the brands that I modeled for were Kim Crawford, Cineplex, Kevin Murphy and I’ve also been in a movie, so that’s kind of cool. It was just a very small part, I actually got smacked, which sounds really funny, but it happened. Over the years I have been through a lot and have gained a lot of experience relating to confidence, going after your goals, what that looks like and what that can mean to you.
I remember getting into modeling, and having a friend say to me, “I didn’t know just anyone can model.” This really hurt me and I was like, Ouch! Reflecting back now I don’t think she really meant it the way it came out, like she’s honestly one of my favorite people and I love this girl. But at the time we were both just like starting to get into our confidence, so this comment really hurt. I debated things like, is she right or “Should I not be modeling?”. But as I thought more about it I was like, you know what, I’ve always wanted to do this, so I’m going do this and I’m not going to care what she thinks. Two years later, she messaged me and mentioned how proud of me she was and became so supportive, all because I stuck with it. People sometimes don’t support you in the beginning, but when they see you stick with something, they sometimes rise to the occasion, and can become proud and supportive of you. Talking with her afterwards she said, “You know, I always wanted to model but never started” and then she proceeded to ask for me to help her get into modeling and of course I was like, yeah, let’s totally do this. I realized that her earlier comments were coming from a place of insecurity, and I’ve noticed that a lot with people. I personally have a lot compassion and excitement for people. I’ve always been the type of person who is really excited, like genuinely excited for people to win in life. Insecurity for me is feeling like people sometimes don’t like me, that’s my insecurity. But it’s never been, “Oh my God, I don’t want you to shine brighter than me”. It’s been the complete opposite, it’s been like, “Oh my god, you’re so beautiful”. For example, I’m the type of person that goes up to the girl in the bathroom and says things like “You have such pretty eyes.” She’s probably thinking I’m hitting on her but in reality I just think she has pretty eyes or her winged eyeliner is really cute. These are the kind of things that I’m always doing so I never understood why others would tear another human being down. I just never understood that, and I still don’t understand it to this day. But I think when you become confident in yourself, you start to learn to just embrace yourself. It’s literally learning to love all the aspects of you including; the good, the bad, and the ugly, it’s not just bits and pieces, it’s everything! Sometimes shining your light so bright and going after your dreams is also showing others that they too can go after their dreams. Years later I realized my friend just wanted to model, but she felt she couldn’t she do this because she didn’t think she was pretty enough. So her words were just a projection of her pain and she was projecting on me what she felt she couldn’t do. The funny part is I was modelling, because I thought she was beautiful and so I was thinking why the hell are you not modeling! I was hoping that we would be able to model together, I thought that would be so much fun. But it was her insecurity and her thought about herself that stopped her.
I want everyone to know that you can do it, you can go after your dreams. 100% you can! You can do anything you put your mind to and focus on. I feel inspired to share what I believe would be helpful to somebody else who may be at the starting point where I started many years ago. So, I hope this was helpful, and whether you get the outcome you’re wanting or whether people support you or not, just surround yourself with positivity. Whether you have to watch YouTube videos or listen to podcasts or like me listen to audiobooks, just do whatever you need to do to keep going after your goal. My mom used to say to me, “Don’t let the naysayers got you.” Which is so cute because it’s true! People are going to try and drag you down, but that’s because they feel insecure by you shining bright. My goal is that everybody would shine bright together, as cheesy as that sounds. So yeah, that’s my story on my confidence, and understanding why people say mean things and how that could impact you.
All right, I’m sending you so much love and I wish you all the best wherever you are in the world!
on the @reawakeningbeautyblog.
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