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Monday, September 12 – St. Martins Lane Hotel, London – Lydia Sarfati, Repêchage CEO and Founder, and Susan Vindics, Repêchage National Business Development Manager, travelled to London for the reveal of the latest in skincare brightening technology, Repêchage Biolight, in a two part event.  The two welcomed press and salon and spa professionals with Val Cooper, Managing Director of Repêchage Europe.

The first launch welcomed salon and spa professionals from the UK, Dubai, Malta, and Ireland with a morning brunch.  Sarfati revealed the breakthrough skincare science behind the new range as well as a special demonstration of the professional skincare treatment, the New! Repêchage Biolight Miracle Facial with Glyco-Sea Glycolic Peel.

Sarfati hosted an afternoon tea later that afternoon for the London press. In a condensed format, Sarfati divulged the nuts and bolts of the Repêchage Biolight range as well as the Repêchage Biolight Miracle Facial with Glyco-Sea Glycolic Peel.

“There has been a lot of work and research that was put into this new collection and I wanted to reveal the breakthrough technology in person,” said Sarfati of crossing the pond for the event, “I was ecstatic that London was just as excited as I was.”

Repêchage® is offered at top spas and resorts around the world. To locate a spa nearest you or to purchase online, log onto www.repechage.com or call 1-800-248-SKIN(7546).

Repechage Europe log onto www.repechageuk.com or call 0800-731-SKIN (7546)

During the day our skin is exposed to free radical damage, environmental aggressors such as the sun, pollution and stress.  At night is a time for our bodies and skin to repair and restore itself. That is why it is important to use a cream nightly that will help repair skin from daily wear and tear. Night creams tend to offer more skin nourishing ingredients.  Repêchage Opti-Firm® Renewal Complex is a richly restorative night cream with proven skin firming benefits. Opti Firm Renewal Complex restores essential moisture and leaves skin radiant, refreshed and younger looking.  Active ingredients in Opti Firm Renewal Complex are known to increase circulation to the skin, increase cellular regeneration, and diminish lines and wrinkles, leaving the skin soft and smooth. Wake-up looking refreshed and more youthful.

Why won’t the same moisturizer one uses in the morning not work in the evening?

A day cream should provide a sun protection factor and protect against free radical damage.   Repêchage Opti-Firm® Lift Cream SPF 10 is a protective day cream that creates a barrier to the elements, shielding the skin from environmental aggressors.  SPF 10 provides full spectrum sun protection. Our proven combination of ingredients leave the skin visibly renewed with the look of health and vitality. Biopeptides derived from  Aosa seaweed prevents breakdown of elastin, while Gingko Biloba, Vitamin E and other skin conditioners leave skin visibly renewed and younger looking.

Tips to help clients understand that a night cream is an important part of their regime:

The body repairs itself at night. It’s a perfect opportunity to use a nourishing cream that helps with the metabolic activity of skin cells, helps restore skins vitality and help repair damage caused by environmental aggressors. Thus, it is the ideal time to provide your skin with the ammunition to fight against aging and to repair the damage.

Beauty therapists are licensed professionals and should assume their professional position and recommend proper at-home care. Explain to your clients the benefits of using a night cream. Clients buy benefits!

* Photo Courtesy of Sunrise Properties of Texas Realty

1. The science behind what happens to the skin in winter:

Majority of people have seasonally dry skin. The stratum corneum needs moisture to be flexible, firm, translucent and function properly as a barrier. Since moisture is constantly moving from the inside out where it evaporates, the lipid layer, which protects and holds moisture, is losing protection. The decreased barrier due to change in weather conditions will cause skin to become dry and dull.

2. Why it dries out:

Skin can become dry for many reasons. In the colder seasons one of the major factors is central heating that will naturally cause skin to become dry because of lack of moisture in the air. Wind and a decrease in environmental humidity are also causes for seasonally dry skin conditions.

3. What we can do about it:

There are three points of repair for dry skin. First, and most obvious, dry skin lacks moisture. Because dry skin has no oil and no comedones, it is also characterized by a taut, patchy surface. To properly treat dry skin, choose a soap-free face wash and a toner that balances the skin and restores the skins natural pH. Toner is a very important, yet often overlooked step in the daily skincare routine. Toner helps to bind moisture, so when used twice daily, it will render moisturizer more effective. Using products rich in moisture binding ingredients like Codium Tomentosum Seaweed in the long term can increase moisture in the stratum corneum by 50%. The next concern is limiting inflammation, so find products with Willowherb and Water Lily, natural antioxidant-rich ingredients which help reduce redness and irritation in the skin. Lastly, dry skin needs to rebuild its barrier, so products with essential fatty acids from seeds and nuts as well as hyaluronic acid and moisture boosting seaweed are optimal. The Repechage Hydra Dew range of products is optimal for winter dry skin to heal, smooth and hydrate.

With any skincare routine, it is always recommended to add gentle exfoliator 2-3 times weekly. For dry skin, humectant-rich product including ingredients like hydrating honey helps to preserve moisture while gentle exfoliating ingredients like almond meal and oatmeal will help slough off flaky, dry skin.  Repechage Honey and Almond scrub is the perfect solution! Don’t overdo it, remember, protecting the barrier is your foremost priority.

One of my goals is to raise the bar by which we educate estheticians in the United States. We are fortunate in this country to have such advanced product development and marketing. Our network of manufacturers and distributors combined with the wide choice and ease of various shipping companies, enable businesses to operate efficiently. But for all our American advances, we are still grossly behind our European, Canadian, and Australian counterparts in education and licensing standards. To go to school for esthetics in other parts of the world is to complete the equivalent of a pre-med college program. Unfortunately in the United States, every state requires different amounts of hours and some states do not even separate esthetics licenses from cosmetology licenses. This disparity really does leave it to the discretion of the individual to seek out further education. As a salon or spa owner, demand more from yourself and your staff. Show clients you respect your trade by providing valuable, continued education to your staff.

As you schedule your calendars, make a point to allocate time to refresh and expand your knowledge. Make it your goal to be the best esthetician you can be. Be proud and confident, as you become a highly trained and skilled skincare expert.

Use your free time to seek out continuing education. Look at different programs at tech schools, local community colleges and four-year universities. Introductory classes in Chemistry, Biology and Anatomy are all beneficial to estheticians. Research different classes offered by the Health Sciences and Kinesiology departments. Courses in Nutrition, First Aid, and Psychology would aid you in helping your clients to look and feel their best.

I also encourage you and your colleagues to attend industry tradeshows. Tradeshows are an excellent source for the newest products, ideas, and education. Industry pioneers whom you otherwise might not learn from often headline these venues.

This is the information age and education is. Subscribe to as many industry magazines and newspapers as possible. These expenses are tax deductible. Many leaders in the esthetics industry have written books or produced videos so that you may learn from the comfort of your home. The Internet has opened a whole new world. A wealth of information is a keystroke away. You can even take classes online!

Manufacturers and distributors offer education more relevant to their lines. However, it is to your advantage to know as much about what all skincare companies are doing so that you may make informed decisions about your practice. A lot of intelligent and talented educators work in this venue. You can learn much about esthetics and how to run your business from these professionals. Manufacturer and distributor education programs are often inexpensive and convenient avenues for continuing education.

I teach skin training several times per year at our training facility in Secaucus, NJ. My goal is to help estheticians feel more confident in their work, their skills, and to deliver superlative treatments. I have made it my mission to help estheticians reach their personal goal of being the best esthetician by any standards. Being an esthetician has brought me so many years of empowerment and satisfaction. I hope every esthetician can share my pride in the services we are trained and licensed to deliver. I wish for you all the success and joy your career may bring you. I truly believe knowledge is the key to our success.

The medical society is beginning to recognize the professionalism of the esthetics industry. Like never before, this is an excellent time for skin care professionals to reach out to the medical establishment. You can increase your credibility as an esthetician and grow your business by establishing a relationship with a local dermatologist and plastic surgeon.

You will want to hook up with a respected physician whose philosophy towards skin care matches yours. Begin by researching leading dermatologists and plastic surgeons in your area. Ask friends, family, and clients which doctors they have heard good things about. Who is the doctor featured in health segments on the local news and cited in the local newspaper? You may contact your personal doctor or the neighborhood hospital for a referral.

Once you have narrowed down a few dermatologists and plastic surgeons you would be interested in pursuing a business relationship with, ask their receptionist to send you some information on their background and on their practice. It is important for you to know as much as possible about a potential colleague.

Likewise, you will need to create a sort of press kit about yourself and your practice. The more professional and detailed your information kit the better. Not only do you want to include your resume, information on the success of your business, and press clippings, include a proposal on how you see your practices working together. That means designing treatment protocols that complement medical treatments and surgical procedures. Contact your product manufacturer for suggested protocols. Do not hesitate to suggest a price structure for such services based on what he or she currently charges. Make your proposal as simple for the doctor to implement as possible.

A dermatologist or plastic surgeon will want to know how you can help grow their business. Provide before and after photos of how pre-op and post-op program can decrease bruising and swelling and speed up healing time. The medical establishment appreciates quantitative and scientific proof.

Begin by referring clients to your intended dermatologist and plastic surgeon so that they are familiar with your name. When you meet with him or her, remind them of all the clients you have already sent their way.

Personally, you might like to enroll in some anatomy, chemistry, and other pre-medical courses at the local university or community college. The better you can speak to medical professionals using their vocabulary, the more you will impress them.

Send a letter of introduction, your press kit and business proposal to the physician of your choice. Follow up with a phone call a few days later to confirm receipt and to arrange a meeting. If the physician is uninterested, ask if you may meet with him or her to discuss how you can make your proposal more appealing to his colleagues. The doctor may even be willing to arrange an introduction with a colleague.

Doctors and plastic surgeons are very particular. Be sure to arrive early, dressed to impress in professional attire. Bring any presentation aides to make an impressive case. Present case studies of other medical practices that have benefited from a relationship with an esthetician and how you see your role in a medical practice. Even if the dermatologist or plastic surgeon does not want to hire you full time or incorporate your services as part of a pre-op or post-op program, you will be able to establish a referral program between yourself and the practice.

You may need to meet with several dermatologists and plastic surgeons to find that perfect match. Keep in touch with physicians and surgeons who initially seemed disinterested. Send them updates about yourself, your business and press clippings to keep your name fresh in his memory. He or she will be much more likely to send potential clients your way.

In recent years, the esthetics industry has grown into a more serious profession that requires increased education and stricter regulations. These changes have given the esthetics profession increased respect from the medical establishment. With the creation of technologically advance treatments and products, estheticians are able to provide a whole new support to both dermatologists and plastic surgeons. To keep up with this evolving industry, skin care professionals of all backgrounds need to work together.

A men’s facial treatment needs to address his concerns. Men are plagued with larger pores and sebaceous glands. Their skin tends to be characterized by excess oil and blackheads. At the same time, men are often dehydrated from the soaps and shampoos they use and the hot showers they take. They typically drink a lot of coffee, sodas and alcohol, and smoke cigars and cigarettes; all habits that promote dehydration. Men are confused as to what skin type they have because they are excessively oily and have surface dryness. Men need a treatment that is both hydrating and deep pore cleansing that balances oil.

The number one skin complaint we hear from our male clients is razor burn. Men tend to have sensitive skin that they have mistreated for years. The facial room is the time to teach him how to shave properly and protect against razor burn. The esthetician that helps him win the war against razor burn is an esthetician with a loyal client.

Men are also concerned with aging. They have hyperpigmentation from years of working in the yard and playing golf without sunscreen. They have crow’s feet and dark under-eye circles from squinting at computer screens and working late hours. The Baby Boomer man is being confronted with middle age and is being threatened by perky Gen-Xers trying to steal their jobs. A man’s appearance is more important to him than ever.

Advancing age not only brings unwanted lines and liver spots, but unwanted hair seems to be growing everywhere! Ear, nose and eyebrows sprout unruly hairs. Basic grooming and hair removal is a must during a male facial treatment. He’ll be so impressed that he has two eyebrows and clean ears, he’ll come back just for that!

It is important to choose products that cater to the male client and his skin needs. First, avoid using perfumed and fragrant products in the facial room. He may already be apprehensive about having a facial and “women’s” products will ensure he won’t be a repeat client. Keep the service as clean and simple as possible. Look for ingredients such as seaweed that offer hydration, anti-aging, antibacterial and oil control at the same time. Other important ingredients to look for are those such as cucumber, lavender, and azulene that calm and soothe inflamed skin. Men do not want to walk out your door with red, blotchy skin caused by an aggressive extraction session. You might as well put a red, flashing neon sign around his neck announcing, “I just spent the last hour getting a facial at my wife’s salon!” Certainly, not the message our male clients want to send to their buddies at Friday night’s poker game.

The men’s grooming facial should not last more than one hour. I suggest charging at least $75, but charge according to your area. Like with all services, do not undersell yourself! Your time is valuable and the service you are providing is important.

Men’s Grooming Treatment

** I recommend Repêchage® Hydra Refine® Products based on Laminaria Saccharina Seaweed, Lemongrass, Farnesol (an anti-bacterial derivative of Lily of the Valley and Cucumber.

•Drape the client and sanitize your hands. Make sure the bedding is white. Pink or flowery sheets are not male-friendly. It is also crucial to have a facial bed at least 75 inches long so your client’s feet aren’t dangling over the edge.

•Analyze your client’s skin. Diagnose and discuss findings and treatment objective. This is the time to ask him to show you how he shaves. Instruct him on proper technique.

•Begin by waxing of the earlobes, eyebrows and by trimming of the nose hair if needed. Use a small wax applicator for all facial waxings and use an electric trimmer for nose and earlobe trimming.

•After facial hair removal, apply astringent. Optional: use cold sea stones on areas that that were waxed such as eyebrows to reduce inflammation.

•Apply cleanser in circular, upward movement on the face and downward on the neck area. Optional: an electric brush may be used.

•Repeat, if necessary. Apply eye pads.

•Apply astringent. Optional: Use spray.

•Use a steam with ozone or infusion. Leave the steam on for ten minutes. During this steaming procedure, administer massage using non-occlusive massage cream.

•Turn off the steam and pat the skin dry.

•Wrap fingers in tissue or wear latex or vinyl gloves. Proceed with extraction, if necessary. Do not exceed ten minutes. If, after ten minutes, any more extraction is needed, it will have to wait until the next facial.

•After extraction, spray or pat on astringent.

•Apply pore perfecting serum. Optional: use cold Sea Stones for massaging in through acupressure.

•Use high frequency 3-5 minutes.

•Apply clarifying mask. Leave it on ten minutes. Apply cotton or gauze mask.  Optional: place cold Sea Stones on the top. Administer hand massage using hand cream.

•If applicable, remove the Sea Stones.

•Remove the mask with wet cotton and dry it thoroughly by buffing the skin with dry cotton.

•Apply hydrating and pore perfecting serum to the face. Apply eye gel around the eye area.

•Offer your client a glass of water and proceed with at-home recommendation.

Massage therapy offers a real solution for managing the anxiety and strain that are encountered daily.  Furthermore, a properly administered facial massage delivers much more than just relaxation. Facial massage: Stimulates circulation, detoxifies, stimulates sebaceous production, relaxes the nerves, releases toxins trapped between the tissues and muscles, oxygenates the skin tissues, gives physiological and psychological benefits, aids in the extraction process, hydrates the surface layer of the skin, brings nutrients to the surface layer of the skin, increases lymphatic flow, and eases muscle tension.

As a practicing esthetician, spa owner, and product developer over 3 decades, owning a spa in the competitive market of New York, believe me, there are days that I am tempted to stray from my belief and give in to the latest trends such as microdermabrasion, glycolic peels, light therapy, to name a few.  But when I examine the skin under a Wood’s lamp and see the damage caused by some of these treatments, I stick with what works – providing long term benefits and lasting results.  Massage is a key factor in every facial treatment and provides fantastic skin rejuvenating results for the skin.

The Lydia Sarfati Method of facial massage is the most therapeutic way to relax and tone facial muscles and release the stress from the face which causes wrinkles, lines and crows feet. The Lydia Sarfati Classic Facial Massage may be preformed in 10 minutes and utilizes the following facial massage techniques: Effleurage, Petrissage, Tapotement, and Shiatsu

(You may view the Vita Cura 5 Phase Firming Facial DVD to learn how to perform my method of massage)

Petrissage is a compression technique, which includes kneading, squeezing and pinching. This affects the deeper muscle tissue of the face.

Tapotement is a percussive stroke in which the fingertips strike the skin in rapid succession. This technique improves the circulation by stimulating the diffusion of the capillary network. It helps nourish the skin by releasing nutrients. This technique also purifies the system by releasing carbon dioxide and other waste materials.

The name “Shiatsu” means “finger pressure,” and this pressure stimulates the muscle and relieves tension.

Knowledge is empowering and knowing the true science behind the skin will always allow you to have integrity and honesty with your client.

Erin McDonough asked:

Why does VC5 put so much emphasis on mature skin? I believe there should be some sort of marketing stating “all skin types” on this particular facial.since I have found in working with this product that it is beneficial for all skin types..any ideas..suggestions..

www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELJdrRcAnek

Looking good and feeling good, do go hand in hand. This is why it can be so difficult for clients who suffer from acne skin. Acne can have a devastating effect on the self- esteem and confidence. Many acne sufferers withdraw socially, and even experience depression.

The good news is that most acne can be treated with outstanding results. And as you help your clients improve their skin, you’ll also improve their confidence and self-esteem. Treating acne can be one of the most rewarding experiences for you as an esthetician

What is Acne?

Acne is an inflammatory lesion of the sebaceous glands. The first signs are usually during puberty, where there’s an increase in the hormone Androgen, which is especially active in stimulating the amount of oil produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. This stimulates extra production of sebum, combined with dead skin cells and other debris, become trapped and creates a plug that blocks the hair follicle.

Acne is defined as a condition resulting from the increased production of the hormone Androgen, which is especially active in stimulating the amount of oil produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. As the ducts of these glands become plugged with the waxy oil, comedones (black heads) and whiteheads (milia) form. They are frequently infected with bacteria, causing welts, deeper lumps and pimples (cysts or nodules).

Sebaceous glands are the glands situated at the root of the hair follicle in the dermis. They can be found all over the body except for the palms and soles. These glands secrete sebum or oil. When the oil is mixed with perspiration, the skin’s surface becomes slightly acidic. This keeps some bacteria and fungi from embedding in the skin and at the same time helping to retain water in the tissue by slowing down evaporation from the skin. When the sebaceous glands are stimulated, a process known as retention hyperkeratosis occurs. This may be triggered by the onset of puberty, hormonal fluctuation, pharmaceutical agents, and stress, as well as heat and humidity.

In acne, the dead cells stick together, along with excess sebum and bacteria to form an impaction plug.

This first stage-impacted follicle is often referred to as a micro comedone. As the bacteria digest sebum, they produce fatty acid waste products that irritate the lining of the follicle causing a proliferation of cells to accumulate in the impacted follicle. At this point, the disease may result in non-inflammatory lesions, and simply produce closed comedones. When they eventually turn into open comedones and expel their contents, inflamed lesions may also result, whereby the follicle wall ruptures forming a papule. White blood cells invade the area and inflammation ensues. If the break is close to the surface of the skin a pustule results. If it is deeper, a nodule forms. In some cases, a membrane entraps the infection and a cyst forms.

Latest research has found that there are three factors that cause acne: Sebum, Bacteria, and Enclosure. And when you encounter these factors together, it creates an environment for inflamed, irritated and congested skin.

THE SEQUENCE OF EVENT OF THE ACNE LESION

1. Keratinized plug blocks sebum from wicking out along the hair shaft

2. Stagnant sebum is broken down by bacterial enzymes into short chained fatty acid

3. Irritation of a papule is formed

4. Increased blood flow activates the immune system

5. White blood cells are rushed into to deal with the foreign matter

6. Pustules are formed

TYPES OF ACNE LESIONS

Levels of Acne – Level 1

Microcomedo: A comedo formed below the epidermis and can’t be seen by the naked eye. Feels like small, hard bumps. As it enlarges, it looks like tiny white bumps just below the surface of the skin.

Closed Comedo (Whitehead): firm white papule

Open Comedo (Comedones): A hard plug composed of sebum and dead skin cells. This is the mildest form of acne.

Levels 2-3

Papule: Inflamed lesions – Small, solid slightly raised areas of the skin less than half an inch in diameter. They may have varied appearance: rounded, smooth or rough, skin-colored or red, pink or brown.

Milia: Also known as epidermal cysts, these are small, firm white papules usually found in clusters on upper cheeks and around the eyes.

Pustule: A small, pus-containing skin blister often found at the opening of hair follicles. More visible inflammation than a papule

Levels 4-5

Nodule: large painful solid lesion extending deep into the skin

Cysts: In some cases, a membrane entraps the infection and a cyst forms. Cysts are inflamed pus filled lesions.

What can be done?

Today, acne can be treated without the harshness and discomfort of traditional treatments that leave the skin red and irritated. First to treat any form of acne, you have to deal with the three factors (Sebum, Bacteria, and Enclosure). This is done with a three- tier approach of professional esthetic treatments, home care program, and diet with nutritional supplements.

Regardless of which form of acne is prevalent on the client, it is known that sebum production or oil is the catalyst for the series of events that results in acne or skin blemishes. As skin care professionals, we know that excess sebum is often associated with enlarged pores, a tendency toward follicle congestion and an oily “T-zone”. We can treat acne prone skin by controlling the excess sebum production, and maintaining proper moisture level.

Common Acne Types

Acne Conglobata: Severe hereditary acne that generally causes scarring on the face and back. It appears as irregularly joined nodules; at earlier stages hard, then with a soft fluid feel.

Acne Detergents: Acne caused by overuse of abrasive cleansers.

Acne Excoriee: A psychosomatic disease involving neurotic picking of the face.

**Photo provided by Karen Burke., MD., PHD.

Acne Mallorca: Caused by excessive sun exposure. It’s often seen in people who work outdoors.

Acne Mechanica: Acne caused by mechanical irritation (such as under the chinstraps in football players).

Acne Medicamentosa: Acne caused by medications.

Chloracne Acne: Caused by constant exposure to certain industrial chemicals, such as aromatic halogenated compounds, and the hydrocarbons found in motor oil.

Steroid Acne: An inflammation of hair follicles caused by internal steroids or from topical corticosteroids on the face.

Acne Cosmetica: A condition caused by comedogenic ingredients found in hair styling products, conditioners, certain sunscreens and makeup. Acne Cosmetica lesions are of the same shape and size, and can be avoided by switching to non-comedogenic products.

Cystic Acne: A severe type of acne condition when the sebum together with dead cells and bacterial products ruptures through the follicle wall, causing an inflammatory reaction that may end in scarring. It appears as a large rubbery nodule, often skin colored and surrounded by red inflamed tissue, 5-20mm in size.

Acne Vulgaris: Most common form of acne, most common in teenagers. It is a direct result of an increase in the male hormone Androgen. Normally develops at puberty and can be triggered at any age. Characterized by a variety of lesions, being visible at any time.

**Photo provided by Karen Burke., MD., PHD.

Removal of Acne Lesions

Desincrustation: Desincrustation is the process of softening the keratinaceous horny plug and allows extractions to proceed easily with minimal trauma to the surrounding tissue.

Lancets: Estheticians can remove comedones (closed and open) and milia with the use of lancets (check with your local state board if it is permissible). Papules and pustules, however, cysts and nodules must be treated by dermatologists. As an esthetician you can still administer acne treatments that will help cystic skin but you won’t be able to remove those lesions.

Comedone extractions:

Manual extractions using vinyl gloves and wrapped index fingers is very effective in removing comedones. If it doesn’t remove immediately, with slight pressure from side to side, use alternating angles to gently lift the Comedone.

Another gentle and effective way to remove a Comedone is with sterile cotton swabs.

If the contents are not expelling, simply go to another section and leave it for the next treatment. Remember the Comedones did not occur in one day and many times it will take more than one treatment to clear them all up.

Esthetics Tools in Treating Acne

High Frequency

High Frequency is an excellent and versatile tool for the esthetician. This electrical unit contains an electrode that uses UVC germicidal rays.

High Frequency:

· Has anti bacterial properties

· Decreases inflammation

· Allows for faster healing time for lesions

· Prevents Secondary infections

Contraindications when working with high frequency machine, they are:

· Do not use on pregnant clients

· Do not use on people with high blood pressure or heart condition

· Epileptics

· Asthmatics

· Clients that have braces, metal implants or heavy dental work

Educating your Client

Education and knowledge is the key in treating acne. Educate your client on the importance of in salon treatments and following a home care program especially designed for them.

As you know picking and squeezing pustules will only make their acne worse. Picking can spread acne-causing bacteria and squeezing can spread infected material deeper into the skin causing more inflammation and even scarring.

Another misunderstanding is the acne can simply be washed away. But over-washing will further irritate the skin. Educate your clients on the myths of acne, such as acne is caused by chocolate. There is no evidence to support that claim. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, home care program, nutritional supplements and professional acne treatments will lead to a healthier more radiant skin at any age.

4 American Academy of Dermatology, aad.org

Everyone has thought about proper hair removal methods but wherever you go, for the most part no one really implements them. “Double Dipping” Should I wear gloves etc

Dr. David R. Caprette PhD, department of biochemistry and cell biology at Rice University in Houston has expressed concern about how easily one can transfer a viable organism to a nice warm blooded environment. This can be a breeding ground for infection.”

So here are some tips, for better waxing habits and NO MORE DOUBLE DIPPING!

• Always wear gloves
• Use a new applicator each time wax is applied to the skin
• Cleanse your implements i.e. tweezer, with anti bacterial soap, first, then place in a UV sterilizer or autoclave for 20 minutes
• Place all disposables in a plastic bag and keep it close to the waxing station so that no other surface is contaminated. Then seal and discard in a closed trash bin after each client
• Continue to educate yourself in proper and efficient wax application, this will help you lower your application costs of waxing per client

Finally you must know the law not just for your individual state but Federal Law. This states that “everyone should be considered as contaminated and that service providers who are occupationally exposed or have the potential to be are required to use preventive measure to prevent cross contamination.” That means federal standards already state that estheticians must wear gloves and perform one-time-use per applicator of hair removal products. See Occupational Safety and Health Administration for more details.