# Facials By Minna > Making your Skin Glowing and Radiant > Admin Email: info@wildfireseomarketing.com ## Posts ### Ginseng to Orchids: How Korea Is Changing The Skincare Game   Korean skincare has become very popular in the last few years as it helps to get healthy, clear, glowing skin.  The Korean approach to skincare is to heal, nourish and hydrate the skin. Korean skincare brands use natural ingredients like ginseng, orchid, and snail mucin in their product formulas, and these natural, more gentle ingredients do not strip the skin or impair the skin barrier. Korean skincare, also known as K Beauty, uses a multi-step routine.   For those unfamiliar with K Beauty, a multi-step routine, using multiple products, can seem like a lot of work.   But the extra work does pay off. The Korean skincare routine allows for a very personalized approach to skincare that can target concerns like hydration, brightening, and anti-aging in every step. The 10-step Korean skincare routine is popular, but a routine can have just 5 steps.   There is no hard and fast rule.   But the key to any routine is to layer products. The first step in a Korean skincare routine is always double cleansing. Double cleansing involves using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and impurities first, and then a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining dirt and debris. This double cleanse ensures that the skin is thoroughly cleansed without being stripped of its natural oils. The next steps in a Korean skincare routine are exfoliating, toning, essence, serum, and moisturizing the skin. Essentially the products are layered onto the skin providing maximum hydration while treating specific skin issues. Beauty of Joseon is a Korean skincare brand that takes inspiration from the Joseon Dynasty and the traditional Korean beauty practice of the royal woman. The women were known to be very beautiful.   The brand uses natural, high-quality ingredients like ginseng, orchid, and rice extract to formulate products that are gentle and very effective. There is a lot of buzz on social media about many of their products. The products work very well and with minimal packaging, low scent/low irritants along with no animal testing, it’s easy to see why it is popular. By focusing on nourishing and hydrating the skin, K Beauty products have become a regular addition to many skincare routines. If you're looking to up your skincare game, consider adding Korean beauty products to your routine. ### Importance of Organic Skin Products Everyone wants healthy, smooth, and glowing skin. Skin obsession has been around for ages, and people of every age and demography strive to maintain their skin perfectly and flawless. Skin needs to be taken good care of as it is part of your appearance. A common saying states; you should not put something on the skin if you don’t eat it. In essence, you should not apply anything unhealthy to your skin. There are a large number of skincare products available in the market. However, there is a noticeable shift towards organic skincare products that are less harmful than chemical ones.   What makes organic skin products? As per USDA certification, an organic product should have at least 95 percent natural ingredients derived from vegetation. That means plant material used in the manufacturing process should not contain any bioengineered or toxic substances. Furthermore, they should be free from any bioengineered plant forms. The idea is to make the products toxin-free that may harm the skin.  Significant benefits  1. Organic products are better for your skin Organic and natural skin products provide your skin the necessary nourishment without irritation and inflammation. People with naturally dry and sensitive skin often experience discomfort and soreness if the skin products contain chemicals. For example, Benzoyl Peroxide found in acne creams has been found to cause skin dryness and redness. Natural skin products are easy on the skin and have a wide range of applications.  Some of the more popular skin products are wrinkle protection, anti-aging formulae, organic cleansers, and the regularly used antiseptic creams. 2. Natural products are more effective Natural skin products contain 95 percent active ingredients, which increase the effectiveness of the product. In comparison, products containing chemicals have only around 10 percent active ingredients. The defense posed by chemical product manufacturers is that their active ingredients work much better than natural products. But in reality, many natural skin products are far superior and are more effective. 3. Natural products are cost-effective There is a notion that organic and natural products, in general, are costlier than the chemical counterpart. While organic and natural products charge a premium, the cost in terms of the active ingredients, quantity required to have comparable results, and longevity make it a much more cost-effective option.     4. Excellent value proposition Organic and natural products promote sustainability. Often the ingredients for natural products are procured from the local community, helping them sustain themselves. The manufacturing process itself is carbon neutral, protecting the environment. Natural skincare products are absorbed in the skin directly on the application, unlike the skin sprays that leave chemicals in the atmosphere. All these benefits in terms of the actual products and their impact on the environment make natural skincare products an excellent value proposition.   Natural skincare products have a long legacy of production and usage, disrupted by chemical use to increase production and impact inorganically. However, there is an increased emphasis on organic and natural skin products in the past decade.     ### Skin Care Before a Photo Shoot This week we have the incredible Pala Mikayla guest posting with advice on how to prep your skin for a photo session. In this detailed breakdown on how to care for your skin you'll learn to care for your skin a week prior to your scheduled shoot. Your makeup will only look as great as the skin underneath it does! While your professional makeup artist will definitely have some tricks up her sleeve to fake it til you make it, there are certainly some ways to prep your skin for optimum results before your photo shoot! Kelowna Wedding Photographer Pala Mikayla   1-THE WEEK BEFORE YOUR SHOOT: Drink plenty of water. This will hydrate your skin and keep dryness at bay, as well as help fine lines appear more plumped and smooth. Take your vitamins! – A multivitamin with your breakfast each day is super important for great skin health. Ensure that you take one with skin-loving essentials such as zinc, folic acid and vitamin C Skip getting a facial – This week you want to treat your skin with kid gloves, and undergoing any chemical treatments or using too active of a skincare regimen may stimulate the skin to break out or even cause an allergic reaction. Instead… Use a gentle skin cleanser – Skip the heavily scented, super scrubby or foaming cleansers that are full of harsh chemicals. Exfoliating scrubs a can scratch the skinʼs surface and exacerbate oiliness, and chemical foaming agents like sodium laureth sulfate can strip the skin of essential natural moisture and create flakiness. The drier the skins surface, the more prone your skin will be to break out from dry skin getting trapped in your pores. Gentle creamy cleansers (Cera Ve, Cetaphil, or Purity by Philosophy- all available at Ulta) melt away makeup, protecting the skins vital fatty lipid layer, and prevent the skin from being overstimulated to produce oil. For light, gentle exfoliation, buy Clarisonic facial brush and use it with with the sensitive brush head 2-3 times a week, once a day. Get in the habit of using a great eye cream, a facial moisturizer and a lip balm Keep your routine simple this week; cleanse, hydrate, use eye cream and moisturize those lips! Keeping your skin in ship shape ahead of time will only benefit the way it looks on camera! My favorites are Cera Ve Moisturizer, Clinique All About Eyes gel eye cream, and Kiehlʼs Lip Balm #1 3-4 DAYS BEFORE YOUR SHOOT: Get a brow wax – (or have them threaded) A clean, groomed brow will give your artist the best potential to create a gorgeous eye makeup application for you. Just donʼt do it the day of or before your shoot. Makeup will NOT stick to freshly waxed skin, and you donʼt want to create any chance for breakout or texture that will need additional coverage. Get a spray tan – A faux glow always looks great on camera. Just make sure you opt for a professional that can hand airbrush a soft, subtle natural tint of color for you that wonʼt look too dark or streaky. There are lots of professionals out there that now how to do it just right – do your research! THE NIGHT BEFORE YOUR SHOOT: Skip that last glass of champagne – Alcohol wreaks havoc on the skin, even in small doses. It depletes the skin of vital nutrients and and can leave it dehydrated and dull. Drink your water instead! Get plenty of sleep! – 8 hours is a must! Pop in some earplugs, and put on a sleeping mask if you must! But getting a great nightʼs sleep will ensure that you feel energized for your shoot, and that your skin will glow! THE DAY OF YOUR SHOOT: Arrive with a clean face! – Remove all traces of your makeup from the night before, and make sure you moisturize and use your eye cream and lip balm. Chances are your artist will also remove any traces of your skin care when she preps your skin for makeup, but if you arrive with a clean, workable canvas, she will thank you for the timesaver… And so will your photographer! Trust your artist – Her kit will be full of everything she needs to create your perfect, photographable look. Leave it to your professional to give you the look you desire-after all, with that gorgeous skin of yours, it would have been a piece of cake! For More information and to book your fabulous engagement and wedding photos contact Photos by Pala Mikayla 1090 Oswell Drive Kelowna, BC V1P1M9 Phone 604-966-1330  ### Benefits of Collagen for Your Skin Introduction Collagen is a substance which is naturally found within the human body. It can be found in the skin, bones and muscles. You might think of this protein as being the glue that holds the body together. However, there may be some instances when we find that taking a collagen supplement might be needed. But do these supplements have any benefits? In short, the answer is yes, they do. In this article we are going to be looking at the benefits of hydrolysed collagen for skin. The Benefits of Collagen for Your Skin As we get older our bodies begin to slow down the production of collagen and this means we need to replace some of the collagen protein with supplements. Around 90% of all the collagen found in our bodies is in our skin, so by taking a supplement, there are sure to be benefits for our largest organ. Strengthen Your Skin With age comes a loss of elasticity in the skin. This can result in the skin appearing looser and can cause it to sag. By taking a collagen supplement, you will be boosting the skins elasticity and strengthening it. As a result, you are likely to notice an improved appearance of the skin. When we take collagen supplements, certain other proteins within the body are stimulated into being produced and this contributes to the renewed elasticity of the skin. Slow Down the Ageing Process There has been some research done to suggest that supplementation with collagen can help slow down the ageing process of the skin. This is something that is highly desirable to a lot of people and can boost our confidence as we age. Collagen has been shown in some cases to even out the pigmentation of the skin which is a common issue when the skin begins to age. Reduce Wrinkles One of the main signs of ageing skin is the presence of wrinkles. A boost in your collagen levels via a supplement can reduce premature wrinkling of the skin. This is due to collagen's ability to re-hydrate the skin, giving it a more youthful glow. Conclusion We all have collagen in our bodies. It’s one of the main proteins that enables our bodies to function. However, as we age, our ability to produce it on our own decreases. So, a collagen supplement can give our bodies a boost. By taking a collagen supplement, you may notice a variety of health benefits, however one of the most notable advantages is its ability to reduce the ageing of the skin through increased elasticity, hydration and a reduction of skin wrinkles. All of these combined leave you with more youthful looking, healthy, and glowing skin.   contributed by: Minna Gruenke - Foremost Expert of skin care and anti aging Facials By Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna,BC. V1W1M3 ### Benefits Of Massage Therapy Getting a body rub massage used to be a luxury but as more people get them more regularly, and realize the benefits they provide, they’ve been growing in demand and popularity. Now that massage therapy is considered a mainstream treatment option, many insurance companies provide coverage for treatment sessions. This form of therapy involves hands-on techniques to increase circulation, relieve tension, reduce stress, relieve anxiety, improve sleep, and promote relaxation throughout the entire body, which all lead to additional benefits. Whether chronic or acute, if someone is tense and in need of a release, or they have been injured and have extensive muscle and/or nerve tissue damage that plagues their body, massage therapy might be worth exploring. It can also be a preventative measure for future problems. Here are some benefits of massage therapy. Relaxation When the body is tense and under stress, it produces unhealthy levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) which can contribute to weight gain, sleeplessness, digestive problems, and headaches, which can all develop into more serious problems. Massage therapy has been shown to decrease cortisol levels which allows the body to enter a recovery mode. Massage therapy also triggers lasting feelings of relaxation, improved mood, and reduced stress levels which, health effects aside, can improve one’s quality of life. Reduced Stress Not only can massage therapy help with stress relief, but regular massage sessions over a prolonged period of time can boost energy levels, reduce pain, and stimulate individuals on physical as well as emotional levels. Muscle Relaxation & Flexibility The purpose of massage therapy is to target the source of the body’s pain by eliminating tense muscles, increasing flexibility, and providing relaxation to the affected muscles as well as the body as a whole. Massage also promotes circulation to the affected or injured muscles, which increases nutrients and oxygen to the damaged tissues. In turn, this increased activity to the affected sites reduces stiffness and edema (swelling) in the muscles and joints, as well as increases flexibility to help reduce pain. This form of therapy also releases endorphins (pain-killing hormones) which boost the dopamine and serotonin (the happiness chemicals) levels in the body. These hormones assist the body in many ways, physically as well as emotionally. Improved Circulation The long-term benefits of massage therapy are not to be underestimated. Improved circulation is part of a snowball effect that occurs in the body as a result of receiving massage therapy on a consistent basis. This is because proper circulation brings damaged, stiff, and tense muscles the rich blood supply they need to promote healing. Improved circulation is the byproduct of hands-on pressure, which moves the blood through the damaged and congested areas of the body. The release of this same pressure causes new blood to flow into tissues.The squeezing, twisting, and pulling action of the massage also removes lactic acid from the muscle tissues. The result is increased lymph fluid circulation which carries metabolic waste products away from internal organs and muscles. This results in lower blood pressure levels and improved overall body function. Lower Blood Pressure Body Massage Regular massage therapy sessions have been found to reduce blood pressure levels. A study in the journal Biological Research for Nursing found that people who had at least three 10-minute back massages a week lowered their blood pressure more than people who spent the same amount of time just relaxing. An individual Kelowna body rub massage can also reduce cortisol levels and regular massage sessions can reduce trigger sources for anxiety, hostility, tension, and depression and, in turn, reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and/or kidney failure, as well as many other health issues. Better Posture A lot of people experience back, neck, and muscle pain from a variety of causes. However, the primary cause of this pain results from poor posture. In fact, chronic back pain, which is the number one reason for missed work days and second most common cause of disability, is often the result of incorrect or poor posture while standing and/or sitting. Being overweight, having poor posture, and repeating movements can also contribute to the strain on the back and other potential problem areas. As a result, the added strain often causes spasms, pain, and tense muscles in the hips, glutes, back, neck, and legs. Massage therapy can help get the body back into proper alignment. Improving one’s posture can be one of the most beneficial and relaxing aspects of massage therapy. Massage allows the body to relax and loosen the muscles made tense and sore via bad posture. In turn, this allows the body to position itself in its organic and pain-free posture. As part of a consistent massage therapy program, the body’s muscles are loosened and relaxed. Moreover, the joints have greater freedom, flexibility, range of motion, and pressure points are relieved. As a result, the body is able to position itself in an organic and healthy posture. In short, massage therapy helps to correct the positions and movements developed over time as a reaction to pain. Strengthen The Body’s Immune System It is a well-known fact that individuals who experience high levels of stress are more vulnerable to illness and injury. When stress is combined with (or the cause of) sleep disturbances and poor nutrition, the body’s immune system is more vulnerable. Its ability to naturally protect itself against infections, pathogens, and bacteria is greatly reduced. Studies have indicated that regular massage sessions not only help reduce stress but can also boost the immune system’s natural ability to fight off pathogens and enhances the body’s ability to deliver nourishment. Massage also complements exercise regimens; as exercise keeps the body strong, regular massage therapy can help keep the immune system resilient. Visit Okanagans Best Kept Secret Massage, they have a dedicated and knowledgeable team of health professional ready to provide you with all the tools you need to take control of your health. Whether you are in need of a massage from one of our massage therapists, an ergonomic assessment of your work station from one of our occupational therapists, or a tailored exercise program from one of our physiotherapists, we are here to help. Contact us   ### Skin care: 5 tips for healthy skin Good skin care — including sun protection and gentle cleansing — can keep your skin healthy and glowing for years to come. Contributed by: By Mayo Clinic Staff Don’t have time for intensive skin care? You can still pamper yourself by acing the basics. Good skin care and healthy lifestyle choices can help delay the natural aging process and prevent various skin problems. Get started with these five no-nonsense tips. 1. Protect yourself from the sun One of the most important ways to take care of your skin is to protect it from the sun. A lifetime of sun exposure can cause wrinkles, age spots and other skin problems — as well as increase the risk of skin cancer. For the most complete sun protection: Use sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Apply sunscreen generously, and reapply every two hours — or more often if you’re swimming or perspiring. Seek shade. Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest. Wear protective clothing. Cover your skin with tightly woven long-sleeved shirts, long pants and wide-brimmed hats. Also consider laundry additives, which give clothing an additional layer of ultraviolet protection for a certain number of washings, or special sun-protective clothing — which is specifically designed to block ultraviolet rays. 2. Don’t smoke Smoking makes your skin look older and contributes to wrinkles. Smoking narrows the tiny blood vessels in the outermost layers of skin, which decreases blood flow. This depletes the skin of oxygen and nutrients that are important to skin health. Smoking also damages collagen and elastin — the fibers that give your skin strength and elasticity. In addition, the repetitive facial expressions you make when smoking — such as pursing your lips when inhaling and squinting your eyes to keep out smoke — can contribute to wrinkles. If you smoke, the best way to protect your skin is to quit. Ask your doctor for tips or treatments to help you stop smoking.   3. Treat your skin gently   Daily cleansing and shaving can take a toll on your skin. To keep it gentle: Limit bath time. Hot water and long showers or baths remove oils from your skin. Limit your bath or shower time, and use warm — rather than hot — water. Avoid strong soaps. Strong soaps and detergents can strip oil from your skin. Instead, choose mild cleansers. Shave carefully. To protect and lubricate your skin, apply shaving cream, lotion or gel before shaving. For the closest shave, use a clean, sharp razor. Shave in the direction the hair grows, not against it. Pat dry. After washing or bathing, gently pat or blot your skin dry with a towel so that some moisture remains on your skin. Moisturize dry skin. If your skin is dry, use a moisturizer that fits your skin type. For daily use, consider a moisturizer that contains SPF. 4. Eat a healthy diet A healthy diet can help you look and feel your best. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. The association between diet and acne isn’t clear — but some research suggests that a diet rich in vitamin C and low in unhealthy fats and processed or refined carbohydrates might promote younger looking skin. 5. Manage stress Uncontrolled stress can make your skin more sensitive and trigger acne breakouts and other skin problems. To encourage healthy skin — and a healthy state of mind — take steps to manage your stress. Set reasonable limits, scale back your to-do list and make time to do the things you enjoy. The results might be more dramatic than you expect. ### 20 Skincare Mistakes That Are Damaging Your Face Most of us have a skincare routine that we stick to out of habit — it’s all about a repetition of steps you have to do day in and day out. But what if you are you repeating the wrong steps? Here are 20 of the top skincare habits we’re all guilty of. Over Exfoliating It’s tempting but highly damaging in the long term to buff away too much of your top skin layer. “You’re actually removing the protective barrier that your skin has,” says Dr. Ben Johnson, founder of Osmosis Pur Medical Skincare. “Once removed, your skin is exposed to environmental toxins and sun damage, causing aging.” Exfoliate two to three times a week, max. Exfoliating Away Oily Skin Not possible, says Florida-based esthetician Crystal McElroy. “People think that if they exfoliate with different scrubs they’ll eliminate issues like oily skin, but when your skin is over-scrubbed, the oil production actually speeds up because skin’s natural repair mechanism is put into overdrive.” Again, two to three times per week is sufficient for exfoliation. Falling Into Bed With Your Makeup On You can be forgiven for that one drunken night, but it can’t be a habit. “Not removing your makeup for the night clogs your pore and oil glands,” saysDennis Gross MD. “When makeup becomes impacted in pores, it makes them appear larger. Once your collagen levels decline, the pore won’t snap back as easily once it has been enlarged.” Plus, he says, it leads to inflammation. Picking At Your Face Most of us know we shouldn’t do this, but lots of us do it anyway. “Anytime you pick or pull at your skin, you are causing damage and creating irritation, scars and wrinkles,” says Johnson. Just. Stop. Not Cleansing Properly You may be diligent in makeup removal, but are you using the right cleanser to put your skin in optimal condition for overnight renewal? “Look for a cleanser that contains the right ingredients,” says Gross. “Things like antioxidants for protection, salicylic acid to help clear your pores, and witch hazel, which acts as a natural astringent.” Using Dirty Makeup Brushes Yes, it’s doing more damage to your skin than you think. “Invest in a brush cleaner, especially for your foundation brush,” says McElroy. We loveSephora Daily Brush Cleaner. “Keeping your brushes clean every day will ensure no dirt and old makeup buildup is going to effect your skin.” Not Applying Products In The Correct order “One of the keys to maximizing the benefits of the products in your regimen is to apply products with a thinner consistency before the thicker, creamier ones — no matter what their active ingredients are,” says Gross. “Products with heavier consistencies can block lighter weight ones from penetrating the skin and doing their job. Over-Using All Of Your Products (Not Just Exfoliants) Just like over-scrubbing, over-using your cleanser or retinol products also compromises your skin’s natural protective oil. “It isn’t necessary to cleanse in the morning and the evening,” says esthetician Andrea DeSimone. “The evening cleanse is crucial to removing dirt, oil and makeup, but during sleep, the oils that your skin produces are hydrating and balancing, so they shouldn’t be washed away in the morning.” She suggests buffing skin with a wet cotton washcloth in the morning instead of another round of cleanser. Popping Pimples We know you’ll do it sometimes, but it’s still a bad idea for your skin overall. “When a dermatologist drains a pimple they apply downward pressure,” says Dr. Gross, “but when people try to do it themselves, they squeeze from the side which ends up backfiring because it causes infection to go down deeper into the pore.” He advises washing your face with a clean washcloth. If the pimple is ready to pop, this is all the pressure needed to drain it.   Sleeping With Your Hair Out At Night “Many people have perimeter and forehead breakouts due to the oil and hair care products that they use — especially those with long hair or bangs,” DeSimone notes. “Pull all of your hair off your face and clip your bangs back before bed.” Not Washing Your Sheets & Pillowcases Frequently Enough “Pillowcases accumulate a buildup of reside from things like conditioner and scalp oil that can clog your pores on your face over time,” says Gross. “You should change your pillow case at least once a week or more if you are more acne-prone. Wash in hot water to kill off dust mites that can cause allergies.” Sleeping On A Cotton Pillowcase Better yet, switch to silk. “Satin or silk minimizes permanent creases and complexion issues. Persistently pressing your face into a pillowcase causes trauma to the skin. Over time, this trauma aggravated by the friction of cotton can cause permanent creases as our collagen breaks down,” says Dr. Gross. Not Wearing Sunscreen Every Day It’s not just for the beach: The best protection against skin aging is a good sunscreen defense. “Wear it everyday, and look for one that has an SPF of 30 or higher,” says Florida-based dermatologist Marisa Potter. “It should also be broad spectrum, which means it helps to shield you from UVA rays (as well as UVB) which are known to cause photoaging of the skin.” She also advises applying sunblock to your chest and the top of your hands daily as well. Not Getting Enough Sleep “Getting a good night’s sleep helps your skin to look its best,” explains Dr. Gross. “When the skin is getting less than optimum rest, it becomes dull and pale with under-eye circles. A lack of sleep can be so stressful that it can cause our bodies — including our skin — to generate free radicals.” Drying Out Your Skin “We all break out,” says California-based dermatologist Howard Murad. “People with acne or the occasional pimple think they need to dry out their skin, so choose products that are too harsh — which can cause further irritation than the breakout itself.” He says to look for a treatment that soothes while it targets your skin concern, and to always finish with a hydrating moisturizer. Eating a Bad Diet In Dr. Gross’ words, what is good for the heart is good for the skin. “I recommend the tri-color salad approach,” he says. “Make sure they are a bunch of colors — red cabbage, green lettuce etc. Eat veggies that have a lot of color. Nature color codes them for us. The more colors you eat, the better.” Not Moisturizing Oily Skin Regardless of your skin type, it’s imperative that you moisturize daily and apply a heavier cream at night, says Dr. Murad. “It’s a common misconception that those with an oily skin should avoid moisturizers. In fact, it’s vital that even oily skin gets moisture because without it, skin will overcompensate for the loss of hydration [with more oil], leading to breakouts and an uneven skin texture.” Take note: Moisturizing adds water to the skin, not oil. Loading Your Skin Up With Products At Night Less is more, says McElroy. “After a normal cleansing routine, applying two or three different serums for a variety of concerns isn’t effective at all. All topical products are effective up to 0.3% absorption into skin so the more you add the less effective each of them is.” If you have multiple skin needs, alternate your serums. Taking Too-Hot Showers It’s tempting … but problematic for your skin. “Hot showers can strip your skin of essential moisture and healthy oils. I recommend taking warm, not hot showers,” says Dr. Murad. Not Knowing What You Are Putting on Your Skin How can you ever truly enjoy great skin if you don’t educate yourself on what you are putting on it? “Read up on ingredients and learn about what you are applying on yourself,” says McElroy. “Remember — price doesn’t always determine quality.” Article Source: http://www.bustle.com/articles/24800-20-skincare-mistakes-that-are-damaging-your-face ### Major Skin Problems Most of us do not know this fact that skin is the largest organ that our body has. It is the largest both in terms of the surface area and weight. The importance of the skin as an organ is often overlooked and we tend not to take proper care of it that leads to a lot of skin problems. Our skin plays the vital role of protecting the vital inner organs of our body. It gives protections against outside foreign agents like bacteria, dust and harmful chemicals and also helps in regulating the body temperature. Taking proper care and giving nourishment to the skin is of utmost importance, failing which we can be a target to various skin problems, few of which are discussed below. Acne This is one of the most commonly found skin problems that affect a lot of population throughout the world. This skin condition is created due to malfunctioning of oil glands which are present under our skin. The pores of the skin are connected to the oil glands underneath by small tubes known as follicle. When due to the malfunction of the glands this follicle gets clogged, then acnes appear on the skin. They may cause scars if not treated early with the prescription of a doctor. Dry skin Dry skin or xerosis is a very common skin condition characterized by a lack of the appropriate amount of water in the epidermis. Symptoms include discomfort from skin tightness and itching. To prevent dry skin , avoid harsh soaps and chemical cleansers that disrupts skin moisture levels. If untreated, dry skin may result in complications, including rashes, eczema, secondary bacterial infections, cellulitis, and skin discoloration. Home remedies for dry skin Treatment generally requires more frequent and regular applications of emollients and moisturizers. Natural masks can be used to deal with facial dry skin. Apply a mask made of wheat flour, turmeric powder and mustard oil and after 30 min, wash off with luke warm water. Also consider a mask using honey and milk. Yogurt makes an excellent cleanser with a mild exfoliating action that will remove dry skin and leave you feeling refreshed and comfortable. Its a safe exfoliant for very dry skin as it exfoliates using lactic acid, instead of scrubbing granules. Dab on extra virgin olive oil which will eliminate dryness. Eczema This is considered to be a variant of dermatitis called atopic dermatitis. This skin disorder is generally characterized by dryness of skin with a feeling of itchiness and rashes on several parts of the body like face, hands, behind knees and elbows etc. There is no known definite reason for Eczema and the treatment is based on the family history and personal health condition. Home remedies for eczema A careful washing routine is important if you have eczema. Preferably use to warm water for baths and showers. A warm bath containing added eczema-soothing ingredients like oatmeal or baking soda can be very effective in easing itchiness and relieving pain. Indulge in a moisturising wash as well as apply plenty of moisturiser afterwards. Choose a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh or highly fragranced soaps. Don’t scrub at your skin, and gently pat yourself dry before slathering on plenty of moisturiser while your skin is still damp. Moisturising skin soon after washing helps seal in moisture. Emollient creams and ointments are more effective than lotions. Use organic coconut oil which is a highly effective moisturizer. Apply the oil on eczema patches all over the body and allow to sink in. Herbal Eczema Treatment Cellulitis Cellulitis is a spreading bacterial infection of the skin and tissues beneath the skin. The bacteria Staphylococcus and Streptococcus are usually responsible for this skin condition. Sometimes cellulitis appears in areas where the skin has broken open, such as the skin near ulcers or surgical wounds. It can be treated with oral or intravenous antibiotics. It usually begins as a small area of pain and redness on the skin which spreads to surrounding tissues, resulting in the typical signs of inflammation , redness, swelling, warmth, and pain. If not properly treated, cellulitis can occasionally spread to the bloodstream and cause a serious bacterial infection of the bloodstream that spreads throughout the body. Home remedies for cellulitis Cellulitis can be effectively treated with oral antibiotics at home. When undergoing treatments for cellulites, you should take lots of vegetables and fruits which are low in calories. Alternatively, you can take fresh juices made using vegetables and fruits. Garlic, best known for anti-bacterial activities helps in destroying the bacteria causing skin infection. It has to be consumed directly or in the form oil until the infected person is cured from contamination. Yoghurt acts on skin infection by eliminating the bacterial actions. The infected person has to consume two cups of this natural cure which increases the good bacteria count in the body and helps in building the immune system effectively. Pineapple is the natural cure for cellulitis as it contains an enzyme named bromelain. Pineapple has to be consumed in supplement form as a part of daily diet to remove the cellulitis completely. Water is an efficient and prominent cure against bacterial infections caused on human body. By taking large amount of water, the bad bacteria are flushed out by constant urination that decreases bad effects on skin. Sun damage Prolonged exposure to the the sun can induce premature skin aging, skin cancer, and many other skin changes. Many skin changes that were commonly believed to be due to aging, such as easy bruising, are actually a result of protracted exposure to the sun. Skin texture changes caused by UV exposure include thick skin in coarse wrinkles, especially on the back of the neck and thinning of the skin causing fine wrinkles, easy bruising, and skin tearing, particularly on the forearms and back of the hands. Skin color changes caused by sun exposure are common. The most noticeable sun-induced pigment change is brown spots . Moles are usually seen in sun-exposed areas. Although it is normal to acquire new moles from childhood through young adulthood, their formation is stimulated by the sun. Home remedies for sun damage Wear sunblock everyday regardless of your skin color and whether it is raining or sunny. Put enough sunblock on to cover any exposed skin. Ensure that your sunblock contains both broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection to prevent sun damage. Make a mixture of one tbsp. of freshly squeezed lemon juice and a half-cup of water. Apply to your skin with a cotton pad and let dry. Wash off with warm water after 30 minutes. Lemon juice contains natural glycolic and alpha hydroxy acids that help to gently exfoliate the superficial layer of skin cells to improve rough skin texture and uneven complexion due to sun damage. Apply honey to your face and other exposed areas of the body as a rejuvenating mask and cleanser. Spread a thin layer onto the skin and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes. Wash off the honey with warm water and pat the skin dry. Honey, particularly the dark varieties, contains high levels of natural, healing antioxidants that help reduce free-radical damage on the skin due to exposure to the sun, pollution and stress. They work by improving texture, tone and moisture in the skin. Moles Moles usually are small, round brown spots but they sometimes can be larger. They can be pink, skin-colored or black. Some are flat and smooth while some are raised above the skin like a slight bump. Most moles are normal. Atypical moles, which are seen in non-sun-exposed areas serve as an indicator that the person with these types of moles may be prone to developing melanoma, a type of skin cancer. Psoriasis Scaling of the skin with visible swelling along with it, is termed as Psoriasis. Psoriasis can be of many forms but most of them cause red, usually thick silver colored scales to appear on various parts of the patient’s body. These patches can cause discomfort like soaring and itching and are generally formed on the scalp, elbow, face, palm, back or feet. This ailment is a bit difficult to diagnose because of its similarity with other skin problems, the doctor may go for a microscopic examination of the skin and see the reaction of the patients to certain medicines to diagnose it. Home remedies for psoriasis Dietary supplements may help ease psoriasis symptoms from the inside. Fish oil and vitamin D have been reported to help some sufferers. Fish oil applied directly to the skin has also been known to work well for some. Use products meant for sensitive skin which are free of dyes and perfumes that can irritate skin. Applying olive or vegetable oil to scales and patches of psoriasis can lock moisture and nutrients in. Lukewarm bath with Epsom salt, mineral oil, milk, or olive oil can soothe the itching and infiltrate scales and plaques. Moisturize immediately after your bath for double benefits. Rashes This is another very common skin condition, affecting a lot of people. These may be temporary in nature and may come and go with the exposure of some agents like Sun or chemicals. It is characterized by dryness and itching of skin and can affect the face, upper back, elbows, knees and feet. Sticking to the doctor’s advice of good skin care regime, and avoiding the agents that bring rashes out can be considered as solutions. Home remedies for rashes Apply aloe vera gel which is renowned for its soothing properties. It relieves swelling and irritation. Oatmeal has long been known to soothe itchy and dry skin. To remedy itchy skin, fill a bathtub with warm water and one cup of rolled oats. Soak for at least twenty minutes, and rinse thoroughly. Olive oil is another natural cure that can be applied topically to moisturize and soothe skin rashes. It will nourish the cracked and itchy skin that is common with rashes while relieving the itch temporarily. Vitamin E, in capsule form, can be used directly on the skin. To apply, break open a vitamin capsule and apply directly on the skin as needed. This sure will soothe and nourish cracked, dry skin. Skin Cancer This is one of the most common form of cancer. It may be caused due to a variety of reason like chemical exposure, radiation exposure or internal body problems. Basal and squamous cell cancer are the two most common forms of skin cancer. It can affect the body parts like the face, head, arms, neck etc… Source: Prokerala ### 30 Day Dietary Challenge for Your Health and Complexion 30 Day Dietary Challenge for Your Health and Complexion   Slowly changing your daily intake of foods and beverages toward more fruits and veggies and less sugar and “bad” fats is the single most important dietary change you can make. It’s good for your body and you’ll see the impact in your complexion. The skin is often like the tip of an iceberg in terms of being a sign that your internal health is ‘off.’ This applies to your  internal system being out of wack because you are stressing your body with poor food and beverage choices. For instance, cutting out junk food and processed sugar has been proven to improve acne. Even better, adding foods like several helpings of green leafy vegetables, olive oil and avocados (healthy fats!) are known to be great for your complexion. What do you think about setting a simple goal of adding two servings of vegetables a day and swapping out the soda pop (even sugar free diet soda) for the veggies? If you do this, the benefits would be huge! Let this month be the beginning of the journey to a healthier diet and see how you feel. Don’t flog yourself, give up or feel overwhelmed because you think you have to get in exactly nine servings of fruits and veggies everyday for the rest of your life. Ease yourself into this new lifestyle by starting with two servings and slowly build as your body, your taste buds and your cravings adjust. Do it for a month, as it’s a lot less intimidating this way. Understand that this is a lifelong change – take it one day, one meal and one week at at time. Remember, it’s not about “dieting.” That word has such a bad connotation that just typing it makes me cringe. A particular style of eating isn’t a diet. Diets, by definition, are a means to an end. When they are over, most people go back to old eating habits that are hurting their health and appearance. This is why I prefer implementing changes a little bit at a time. Just like with a fitness program, your dietary changes need to be small and sustainable to let your body adjust. Look at this dietary change as a lifestyle. Start your new lifestyle in manageable steps that allows you to ease into it. The point is, whatever positive dietary changes you choose to implement in order to improve your health and appearance, make sure those changes are sustainable long after any goals you set are reached. Still not convinced? When you hear about people who are severely out of shape starting an exercise program, you know experts recommend that they start out small, doing what they can. Two flights of stairs to their floor at work. Parking at the back of the parking lot. Next, walking a mile three days a week. Then, one and a half miles three times a week. You have to start somewhere, and beginning where you are is a great place to be. Dietary changes are the same. Your body and mind need time to adjust. So, where do you begin and what dietary changes make the biggest differences? Dr. Bailey is a fan of mostly plant-based whole food, low glycemic, low-fat/smart-fat eating. She calls her dietary plan an Mediterranean Alkaline Dietary Food Plan. She outlines how she came to this lifestyle and why it works in her guide “How to Eat Your Way to Beauty and Health,” which you can download for free here. Dr. Bailey found that eating like this cleared up a host of problems she’s battled over the years including arthritis, musculoskeletal pain and digestive misadventures. Right now, if your diet is radically different, but you are intrigued by what she advises in her Healthy Eating Guide, start slowly. Hold Dr. Bailey’s Food Pyramid as a goal, see how your body feels with small changes and advance your changes as your body adjusts. Know that the modern Western diet has this food pyramid turned upside down and that the top tip of “treats” form the base of most people’s daily food intake. The magnitude of change this food pyramid makes on the chemistry of the body is huge. Ready to “detoxify” all that winter gunk and holiday indulgence? Do you yearn to get the bloated, heavy feeling of “gunk” out of your system? Do you want to feel vital, healthy and well instead of encumbered and swinging from one craving to the next? Let’s enjoy winter by cozying up with healthy comfort foods, so that we emerge in the spring feeling (and looking!) really great. Who is up for a 30 day dietary challenge?   Week 1: Make it a priority to get at least two servings of vegetables and one serving of fruit each day. It may seem easy, but keep in mind, the idea is consistency. Bonus: Instead of reaching for that soda pop, reach instead for 8 oz. of water. Add lemon, ginger, mint leaves or fruit muddled in the bottom of your glass. If you’re still thirsty, drink your soda pop. But, I bet your need for it will shrink. Week 2: Make it a priority to get at least three servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit each day. You may have to get a little creative here. Try roasting a big pan of veggies and put them in plastic containers for work. You can also open a can of beans and either throw them on a salad or heat them in the microwave for a quick snack. Another great tip is to cut up an apple and carrots and throw them into a plastic bag and take them with you to nibble on when you get hungry. Dr. Bailey carries nuts with her everywhere to stave off hunger. Bonus: Instead of taking the elevator, try walking the stairs to work every morning. Even if you work on the 27th floor, take the elevator to the 23rd, and walk the rest of the flights. Week 3: Make it a priority to get at least four servings of vegetables and three servings of fruit each day. Smoothies are your best friend here. BHG.com has 10 smoothie recipes to experiment with. Get crazy and try adding some almond butter or oatmeal into your smoothie. Chia seeds are a great way to add texture and protein to your breakfast too. Dr. Bailey uses her food processor or mandolin to thinly slice or shred veggies like red bell peppers, carrots, fennel, green cabbage, etc. She serves this under a warm entree, and eats them together. She loves the crunch with the warm food and it gets an extra serving of veggies in during a meal. This is also a good time to try a Meatless Monday! Try one day where you get your proteins from plant sources rather than animal sources. You don’t have to do this every day, so it won’t be a huge change. But, it’s a chance to get more veggies in, plus lighten your dietary meat load just one day a week. Try it out and see how it works! If you need recipe ideas, at the end of Dr. Bailey’s Healthy Eating Guide, there’s a 14-day menu with plenty of recipes. Bonus: Instead of having multiple cups of coffee each morning, try substituting one for a cup of green tea. While the caffeine content isn’t as high, the antioxidant properties more than make up for it. Plus, that carb craving you have midday could actually be because you’re crashing from hidden sugar in coffee drinks. Week 4: Make it a priority to get at least five servings of vegetables and four servings of fruit each day. Whew! That might seem like a lot, but think of it as an adventure in vegetable experimentation. Ever had jicama fries? How about cauliflower mashed potatoes? There are so many types of vegetables out there, and here’s a full list of fruit and veggie options! So, be adventurous! Like learning a language, you will gradually become proficient in getting your fruits and veggie servings easily into your diet. We all have our tips and tricks, so let’s share them with each other in the comments! Bonus: Try adding different spices to your smoothies and food, like turmeric or ginger – spices are often hidden gems and powerhouses of vitamins and minerals that your body and skin soak up like a sponge. Who’s up for this challenge? We’d love to hear if you’re embracing dietary change as a way to improve how you look and feel. Let’s share any progress or tips you find. Let’s also share any challenges that you face along the way. We can’t wait to hear from you! Posted by Facialskelowna.com ### Skin benefits to using a steam bath If you ever want to subject yourself to total confusion, try listening to some popular health advice. That will do the trick, especially when it comes to techniques to use for health benefits. There’s usually more there to confuse you than to help. Unfortunately, when it comes to steam baths, it’s usually not any better. The good news in this is that there are some benefits to using a steam bath that seem to enjoy a certain amount of consensus. Here are five of them. Five Things You Should Know About Steam Baths Getting rid of blackheads, whiteheads, and other impurities. If you have ever been to a beauty spa, you know the routine. Expose your skin to steam to bring the blackheads, whiteheads, and other impurities to the surface for an easy removal. You can get the same benefit from a short stay in a steam bath. And you save yourself a hefty fee too. A steam bath will open your pores and make extraction easier. Keep your skin glowing. After a while, the skin will end up coated with dead skin cells. A good steam bath will remove these dead skin cells and leave you with glowing skin. Even better, without this dead skin and other dirt and grime, you skin will glow with radiance. Prevent acne. Pimples and other skin issues such as acne are an especially difficult battle for young people, but with a steam bath, the warm air and steam will open up pores, which cleans then out and helps to rid the skin of acne-causing bacteria. Prevents aging of your skin. Once you enter your 30s, your skin begins to age dramatically. You can slow this aging by using steam treatments from a steam bath to moisturize and reverse some of the effects of aging on your skin. Heat and steam encourage perspiration, which takes with it numerous toxins in the body. Nourishes hair. Instead of reaching for a bottle when you notice your hair and scalp getting dry, why not opt for a steam bath? Steam encourages pores to open up, releasing oils and other materials in your hair and scalp, leading to a more healthful surface. It boosts blood circulation too. For more information about the benefits of steam baths, contact Perfectbath.com to get the latest information. You will end up enjoying all of the benefits of a steam bath. Not just those for your skin. Your body will thank you for it.   Contributed by:  Aaron Gruenke steam bath expert and author, Aaron writes for several online and offline blogs and media having to do with health and bathroom products. ### Microderm Abrasion and Skin Care Softer skin for a better feeling When it comes to the human body, nothing is more apparent at first glance than the health of someone’s skin. We understand that it’s always important to look your best, and Diamond Microdermabrasion is a highly recommended procedure for maintaining smooth and healthy skin. How does Diamond Microdermabrasion work? Diamond Microdermabrasion uses sterile diamond heads to abrade or rub off the top skin layer, then vacuums the particles, dirt and any dead skin back up, giving you a non-surgical skin refinish that removes skin debris, imperfections, blemishes, wrinkles and even unwanted pigmentation. Some things that Diamond Microdermabrasion help include: Rejuvenation of sun damaged skin – face, neck, shoulders, back, arms and legs Reduction of age spots. Minimization of blotchy skin coloring. Reduction of acne and superficial scars from past injury. Extraction of blackheads and whiteheads. Reduction of oily Skin. Improvement of overall skin health. How often should You use Microdermabrasion? Microdermabrasion can be done as frequently as weekly or up to every eight weeks depending on your skin’s tolerance and desired cosmetic effects. Many people choose to start with weekly treatments for three sessions, then change to a monthly maintenance regimen. It’s important though, to note that it’s not enough to do a Diamond Microdermabrasion procedure only once and then stop. Using Diamond Dermabrasion with other skin health products You should accompany a Diamond Dermabrasion with skin products that penetrate through the top skin layer that reaches the dermis level, help to replenish natural nutrients, restore cell activity, and promote skin health. The results after Micro Dermabrasion treatment is usually a healthy, glowing, beautiful skin. Find out more about Diamond Dermabrasion here and embrace healthier and softer skin today!   Contributed By: Facials by Minna   720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. V1W-1M3  info@facialskelowna.com ### The Many Advantages for Skin Provided By Steam Shower With Ozone Oxygen gas is commonly known to everyone as O2. Although its older brother Ozone is quite unheard of. Ozone and oxygen are very much the same with respect to its composition. But, ozone has one additional oxygen molecule. It is extremely reactive and pretty unstable but has some vital advantages to health. Ozone is extremely reactive and energising. Its usefulness is attributable to its sensitivity to viruses and various other pathogens. Ozone is fatal to viruses, harmful bacteria and pathogen in the human body. Its curing properties are impressive. That’s why we’re excited about it. The therapeutic feature of Ozone gas has been around for years. It’s known that the Germans utilized it extensively for skin problems. Its renowned success contributed to the widespread utilization of Ozone in several medicinal practices throughout Europe nowadays. There are many ways available to infuse Ozone into the human body. You can check out most of them online. Ozone could be administered into the human body by means of heat and this technique is quite relaxing and this is why it is gathering popularity. Treatment methods like steam showers as well as saunas are famous so it is natural to blend them with Ozone treatments. Numerous health spas these days have a wide array of heat treatment plans like steam rooms, steam showers, and saunas which means consumers are already familiar with these. One of the most well-known process used when it comes to skin cleansing and restoration is steam. Toxins are normally found under the skin but near the surface. They can be expelled easily without the need to traverse the bodies complex lymph system. Steam therapies leaves the skin looking moist with a vibrant glow as they have a cleansing effect. The Europeans have been enjoying steam treatments for quite a long time because they are familiar with the advantages. Waste compounds from the body are taken away simply because steam showers encourage sweating. Perspiration instantly gets rid of most of the toxic compounds present within the body. The skin is the largest organ in the human body. It gets rid of a third of the body’s waste materials. The body has thousands of sweat glands that helps in managing body temperature and takes away toxic substances from the blood. This detoxing function is also carried out by different purifying body organs like the kidneys. Today, with increased levels of pollution toxicity is of much greater concern than ever before. Lots of the chemical substances that affect us these days are different. It is a contributory aspect in the present day’s pollution concerns. Unhealthy toxins are found inside our bodies due to the pollution around us and also the water we drink. These toxicity levels are not healthy in the long run. It is vital that we develop our very own program to get rid of these risks. The discharge of Ozone in a Steam Shower setting produces a highly effective synergy. The skin pores enlarge and with the sweat glands all the harmful toxins are eliminated. Through exactly the same approach, ozone circulation within the body is induced. Ozone present in the body has been discovered to kill bacteria and break down chemical toxins. Waste substances are oxidised by Ozone and taken away. You can enjoy these benefits while having a relaxing steam shower. The next time you are at a health spa or wellbeing centre, inquire about the availability of Ozone and steam showers. On the other hand, you could purchase your own Steam Shower with an Ozone dispensing system built into the design. Contributed by: Facials By Minna best skin care treatments in Kelowna BC. Find out more about skin care and ways of improving your skin by contacting. Facials By Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. Phone 250-764-8761 info@facialskelowna.com ### What is Acne? Acne is one of the most problematic and common skin-care problems for individuals across the world—and it can be emotionally one of the most debilitating and embarrassing skin disorders to experience. Although most often associated with teenagers and the onset of puberty, the truth is that you can get acne at any age, which makes it even more frustrating. So, what’s acne anyway? Here we identify this self-esteem-crushing problem and the various ways it can show up. Knowing the causes of acne can be your first step in learning just how to gain control so you will be able to get rid of breakouts and get back to having clear skin! What Is Acne? The majority of us are familiar with acne, even when we don’t know the specifics of what is causing it most of us can tell when we have acne and not some other skin problem. Acne’s textbook definition is that it is a skin disorder that happens when hair follicles (every pore you can see on your face is in fact part of a follicle) they can become plugged with dead skin cells and oil. That blend of oil and cells allows the bacteria accountable for acne, Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), to flourish inside the follicle instead of remaining on the skin’s surface, where it normally resides without causing much trouble. The bacteria feasts on the follicle’s contents, which starts a domino effect by producing inflammatory chemicals and enzymes. This technique attracts white blood cells to combat the bacteria, which leads to inflammation. Acne is first and foremost an inflammatory disorder, and it’s important to remember that when treating it! Anything you certainly can do to lessen inflammation may help acne heal faster —the reverse does work as well, making the inflammation worse is likely to make the acne worse! The later of the “precursor” stages in the development of acne happens once the wall of the plugged follicle reduces, spilling everything inside to nearby skin-leading to lesions or pimples. Forms of Acne Acne can show up on many regions of the human body, including the facial area, neck, chest, back, shoulders, and arms. Whilst the classic pustule form (if anything could be called classic!) is what lots of people typically consider when acne comes to mind, it can actually take several forms, as described below. Comedones: This type of acne occurs in two ways: whiteheads or blackheads. In line with the Mayo Clinic, comedones would be the non-inflammatory version of acne. When these lesions are closed at the skin’s surface, they’re flesh-colored, slightly raised bumps called whiteheads. When they’re open, the exposure to air allows the plugs in the hair follicle to oxidize, producing a dark or black spot on skin called a blackhead. That dark spot is not dirt showing beneath the surface of skin! Papules: They’re small, raised bumps that indicate inflammation is occurring in hair follicles. Pustules: Bigger than papules, these red, tender bumps have white pus at their tips and certainly are a sign of a more advanced, deeper inflammation. Nodules: One of the most painful kinds of acne, these bumps remain below the surface of the skin and are large and solid. They develop when buildup occurs deep within hair follicles which are severely clogged. Cysts: Painful, pus-filled lumps that form beneath the skin, and that present an elevated danger of scarring due to their depth and collagen-destroying potential.  The Bottom Line So now that we have taken the guesswork out of  what happens to your skin when affected by acne is, and what it will look like, what can you do to treat Acne? The good news is that there is a success of details about the various ways to treat acne and bring it under control. We invite you to check out our articles that tackle every aspect of acne, including the factors that cause it, how to avoid it, myths that might be making your skin worse, prescription treatments, over-the-counter treatments, and even alternative treatments that could help when other available choices fail. This is a battle that may be won—and the feeling of happiness regained once you finally have clear skin again is among the best ever! The Best Skin of Your Life Starts Now!  Book a free skin care analysis and treatment with Minna your local Kelowna Skincare  specialist and esthetician and start looking your best. Find out more about skin care and ways of improving your skin by contacting. Facials By Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. Phone 250-764-8761 info@facialskelowna.com ### Top tips for skincare and facial treatment If you are a resident of Kelowna, BC, Canada (or anywhere else) and happen to be worried about skincare, acne or facial treatments then you are in the right place reading this article. Your skin is the largest and the most visible organ of your body. It covers every external part of your body. For the surface area of its exposure to the harsh elements of nature, it needs regular care to maintain its texture and health. Good skincare is a key to preserving your skin. Regardless of our gender, everyone desires smooth, healthy and wrinkle-less skin. Here are 5 great ways for skin care and facial treatments. Rehydration is the key to skincare and facial treatment Skin needs constant moisture supply to remain healthy and vibrant. Most skin problems are rooted in dehydration of skin through constant exposure to external elements and internal health. Rehydration of skin can be achieved through external application of moisturizing agents and intake of healthy fluids to keep your body rehydrated internally. Always opt for the best and reputed skincare applications, get your skincare treatments from a reputed spa in Kelowna, BC. Canada and drink at least 10 glasses of water every day.   Chemical and Natural peels for skincare and facial treatment Natural and chemical peels are one of the preferred options to seek such results. Moreover, Chemical peels are an affordable treatment for an ordinary customer with an average budget. However, remember! Chemical peels are one of the artificial chemical treatments related to skincare. Natural and chemical peels can successfully treat many of the skin problems. These skin problems include wrinkles, freckles, sun damage, acne, liver spots, scars, etc. Depending upon certain factor, chemical and natural peels can improve your skin texture, tone, and reduce fine lines. Deep chemical and natural peels can help in removing pre-cancerous growth. But such a prospect must always be explored under the supervision of an expert dermatologist. Every type of chemical and natural peel has its pronounced benefits and advantages for particular skin type. Before and After picture showing the dramatic results that can be obtained with Chemical peel treatments, Chemical peel treatment can give you smoother and younger skin without any spot or mark. chemical and natural peels are usually very effective and useful for the people who want to get rid of skin acne, damage to skin related to ultra-violet exposure, and scars. You can find some great information on the subject by contacting Minna at  “Facials by Minna”   DIY skincare and facial treatments Whether it is “just for the fun,” or to save money, or to have full control and knowledge of what goes in the product and what stays out, making your own skin care products remains an interesting activity and art. No matter the motive, the method is the same. This hobby-like science will cater your multiple beauty needs with your own customized concoctions that are effective, cheap, safe, and enjoyable. As a beginner you might have to follow formulas exactly as they are demonstrated, growing talent and practice will make you creative. It is important, however, to adhere to proportions and the overall structure of any desired formula. The Last Word on Skincare  You need skincare, acne treatment or facial treatments; in any case you must rely on an expert like Facials by Minna. This is more valid since “a treatment gone wrong” can have long lasting effects on your skin that you can ill afford.   For more information on the subject of Skin Care, please contact or visit Facials by Minna  720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. V1W-1M3  Phone 250-764-8761   ### Escaping Rosacea : Skin care essentials Why do we need skin care? A fresh glowing skin not only adds to one’s confidence but also reflects a good diet and balanced life-style. We often forget how a basic nurturing of skin, can make us look and feel younger and happier. When we feel good, our approach towards life also works around an idea of positivity. It is essential to invest substantially in taking care of ourselves. The major reason being the effect that high levels of stress and anxiety have on one’s lifestyle. We often realize that the need to take care of our skin arise only when a problem becomes visible enough to catch our attention. Sudden white pigmentation, dryness, frequent itching, redness are symptoms that make one realize the possibility of prolonged skin ailments. Extreme weather conditions require a certain amount of acclimatization on the part of the skin. During summers, a sufficient intake of drinking water, consumption of glucose, sun burn lotions and night moisturizers keep the skin healthy. Winters make the skin dry and rough. Thus there are skin problems and aliments that need attention time and again. About Rosacea Rosacea, one of the commonest and prolonged skin problems, which is akin to acne, characterized by redness on the face, and irregularities due to dilation of the blood vessels, primarily begins as a face phenomenon. Slowly, it emerges on cheeks, nose or the forehead. It may even damage the neck, chest, ears and scalp. Almost permanent pustules and bumps occur in severe cases. Red swollen eyes and Rosacea Keratitis are some of the eye problems that result from it. In extreme cases, rhynophyma (a red lobe like development around the nose) occurs. Additionally, there are cases of itching and burning sensations.  Hot and spicy food, alcohol, heat and emotional anxiety make the skin further susceptible to Rosacea. The magic of Skin care Skin care is vital to healthy living. Repechage and Serene have a wide range of products ideal for all skin types. Products like T-Zone Balance for Combination skin, Opti- Firm for Mature Sun damaged skin, Hydra Medic for problem/acne skin and Serene Products for all skin types may relieve some of the problems related to Rosacea, even if partially. The natural ingredients of the product and the hypo-allergenic component in them make these an ideal choice for anybody. Also,the different facial and eye treatments that are offered in Kelowna by skin specialist Minna Gruenke, are definitely going to leave you with a satisfying experience. To book your appointment contact: Facials By Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. V1W-1M3 Phone 250-764-8761  info@facialskelowna.com ### How to look younger longer Best Facials to Retain Youth and Glow The ultimate aim behind every beauty treatment is to achieve better results. Although regular beauty treatments such as facials are frowned upon and considered as false claims, the real problem lies with where you get the facial and what products are used on your skin. The more natural the ingredients, the better the results are. Facials by Minna Located in Kelowna, Facials by Minna focuses on personalized care to the client. Minna is committed to giving her clients the satisfaction that they need with their range of facials. A facial treatment here, begins with a professional skin care consultation to choose products that work their best on your skin. All products used by Minna are from Serene and Repechage. The products are made out of natural ingredients and are paraben free. Both Serene and Repechage are renowned brands used to achieve the best results with facials. Minna offers different types of facials such as the Basic Miracle facial (European Facial), The Repechage Four Layer Facial, Chemical treatment and Opti-Firm Eye Treatment. All these facials are known for their rejuvenating effect and their amazing results. Here’s how a couple of them are done at Facials by Minna. Basic Miracle Facial or European Facial: This is one of the most favourite treatments preferred by the clients. The European facial works on fine lines and wrinkles and towards the end of the 1 hour facial, it leaves your skin fresh and glowing. The process of the facial starts with a deep cleansing routine. For sensitive skin, the gentle St.Johns wort formula is used. A toner is used later, to restore the pH of the skin. An exfoliation using oatmeal, honey and almond meal leaves the skin soft, supple and smooth. Followed by steam and extractions that remove blackheads, the regimen is followed by a massage with an aqua massage cream that rapidly brightens and evens skin tone. The mask with Ulva Lactuva Extract moisturizes and hydrates your skin while adding anti-aging benefits. Skin is toned again and a daily moisturizer is used to maintain hydration. The Repechage Four Layer Facial: Tagged by Cosmopolitan UK as the ‘Best facial of the Century’ the Repechage Four Layer facial is targets anti-aging. Repechage products are made from the sea and the facial involves four layers of pure bliss, leaving the skin radiant and young. The first layer with the Seaweed filtrate softens lines, moisturizes and restores balance. A 3 movement facial massage is the second step, which encourages circulation and elasticity. This is followed by a fresh Seaweed Mask from Repechage that gives clarity and improves skin tone. The facial ends with a mineral mask that has subtle warmth which induces the other 3 layers to work their miracle. In the end, you are left with skin that is young and refreshing.   Book your facial with Minna now! Facials by Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. V1W-1M3 Phone 250-764-8761   info@facialskelowna.com ### Effective Skin Care Learning to choose an effective skin care system To many people, the only facial cleansing treatment the do is washing or Splashing your face with soap and water. But this may not be the best solution- let’s find out why.   We often think that washing our face with water takes care of cleansing the face from all the accumulated dirt. Of course! It momentarily clears off the surface level dirt, but deep down your skin feels tired and craves for comfort.  Have you ever thought of a facial spa treatment? It is a great way to soften your skin, getting rid of all those dead cells. The pores in your skin are opened up and the deepest layers of the skin are made to feel smoother and fresher. The double process of exfoliation and use of skin care products make Micro-dermabrasion (cosmetic treatment) a good choice, Facials by Minna in Kelowna can make a success of dealing with your skin care issues. Usually 5-12  initial sessions and on going monthly treatments ensure that the age spots are diminished, pore sizes are decreased, fine lines and wrinkles become softer, scars are less visible and there is an increased collagen. After a treatment, one may be left with mild irritation or red skin right after the treatment but it goes away after a few hours or days depending on the sensitivity of your skin. Before undertaking the treatment, you must stay away from using skin products having chemicals or fragrance. One should use high quality sun-screen lotions and must also drink lots of water. Your esthetician can also recommend the proper cleansers and all natural skin care products that will keep your skin looking great after your facial treatments. Some of the all natural skin care brands utilized by Facials by Minna are from Repechage and Serene lines of facial cleansers and skin care products. Various Facial Treatments now available in Kelowna The European Facial Treatment has a deep cleansing facial which hydrates and purifies the skin, clearing away the germs underneath, stuck in the pores.  Glycolic Peel treatment (chemical Peel) gives your skin a fresh look. It protects the skin from aging, scars and sun damage. The Opti -firm Eye Contour Treatment redresses some of the issues related to wrinkling, puffing of the eyes and dark circles.  Will the skin remain healthy? By now, it must be quite clear as to why a simple wash cannot take care of critical cuticle and soft skin problems. All the treatments, be it Facial for removing signs of aging or for Acne treatment, come with some before and after rules. It is always a good idea to follow through the entire process. At the same time, skin care treatments which require more than one session do not yield any benefit if the entire regime is not completed. An example is if doing a chemical peel, you will see little results doing just one chemical peel treatment but after doing 3 or 4 treatments as scheduled by your esthetician the results will be dramatic. We must learn to choose the effective cure, one that is best suited to your skin type and the specific problem in hand. Having healthy skin not only makes one develop an aura of positivity, it also keeps the body well balanced.   Looking for Skin care treatments in Kelowna, Contact: Facials by Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. V1W-1M3 Phone 250-764-8761    info@facialskelowna.com ### How often should I get a Facial? Should Facials feature in my life regularly? Are facials really necessary? That too! What is the urgency about getting into the habit of doing it regularly? The fact of the matter is that we all like to look and feel good. Skin runs the maximum risk of being exposed to all kinds of weather, ranging from the scorching summer heat waves to the dry bitter wind chills. Therefore, it is actually a healthy habit to indulge into facials regularly. Stress Buster: Facials are a great way to release stress. The magic touch and massage leaves you relaxed and happy. With increased blood circulation induced by a facial, the skin cells are renewed. Healthy Pores: Facials help in detox and by manipulating the lymphatic system; it reduces waste accumulation that may lead to puffiness and accumulation of fluid.  Cleansing of pores leads to prevention from acne, accrual of the oil and debris. Clear pores leave room for the skin to keep the process of hydration in motion. It also evens the skin tone. Ageing can be reduced: Facial arrests the ageing of the skin. It reduces fine lines and age spots. Collagens built help in controlling wrinkling, sagging, etc. Facials also need to fight reverse ageing due to the use of exfoliation massages and circulation of nutrients and anti-oxidants. Facials help maintain an optimum skin health. Exfoliations: One must note that when the exfoliation is done with astringents, masks or peels, the moisture reaches deep into the skin’s upper layer. The dead cells get removed in the process and the newer cells emerge. Specific treatments such as oxygen facials help to boost the growth of new skin cells and also soften the skin to do away with the lines, even-though temporarily. Some other facials have electric micro currents which fuel facial muscles and yet again temporarily, give a tighter look and feel to the skin. Ideally once a month facials are a good idea. This is only when you do not really have to deal with any specific skin problems. When you are looking for specific cure like acne/ hyper pigmentation, etc, then you must make appointments for a series of treatments. While most people will see significant improvement in there complexion from getting a facial treatment, Facials do not come with guarantee. You must find out which are the products that your skin may be allergic to. Then also, there may be accidents like getting burnt by the dripping steamer or infection from something that was not properly cleaned. Also, one should not indulge into an oily diet while facial treatments are ongoing. Contibuted by : Minna Gruenke esthetician and skin care specialist in Kelowna BC   Book Your Free Skin Care Consultation Now Facials by Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. info@facialskelowna.com Phone: 250-764-8761 ### How to keep looking younger In Pursuit of Young Looking Skin   We all desire a flawless, glowing, younger looking skin. It gives us a different kind of confidence which helps settle many of our deep seated anxieties. Not that we ever talk about it but nonetheless, we are always happy to discover ways to get a young, rejuvenated skin.  Lets see what Facials by Minna has in store for us. The 4 layer Spa treatment is one of the best ways to revitalize one’s skin. The first layer involves smearing the C-Serum Concentrate liquid.  Apart from hydrating the skin, it softens the lines and tones the skin tissues.  The second layer hydrates the skin further and the creamy seaweed component tends to the circulation. It also ensures long term skin elasticity. The third layer is about wearing the green seaweed mask. This has an immediate cooling effect on the skin and soothes the skin. The clarity and the skin tone become much better. The final layer is actually applying the seaweed mineral mask on the skin, letting its gentle warmth spread. The seaweed minerals finally seep into the skin. Microdermabrasion A non-chemical formula to relieve your skin of its outer layer of dry and dead skin cells apart from being useful in tending to unwanted pigmentation, wrinkling, light acne scars and age spots, has way of returning the glow to your skin. Tiny crystals are sprayed in a manner that it allows the outer layer of the skin to fall off gently. The technique is less aggressive compared to dermabrasion, the latter being safe only for fairer skin, which do not run the risk of skin discoloration. Since the process of microdermabrasion is gentler, numbing medicine is not required during the process. The new skin cells contain higher levels of collagen and elastin leaving the skin softer and brighter. Microdermabrasion treats clogged pores, skin texture problems and facial lines. It is also useful for patients who have rosacea or acute acne. According to Suncoast Skin Solutions, Microdermabrasion in combination with a chemical peel and masque enhances the renewing effect of this treatment Chemical Peel Act is another popular way getting a younger skin. Through a process of deep cleansing, it removes the excess oil that accumulates, and restores the moisture of the skin. This is all done through the use of an Alpha Hydroxy Acid, known as Glycolic Acid, derivative of sugarcane. Further, there is a ‘toning complex’ which is more than a simple astringent. It calms the skin while reinstating the PH balance.  The process helps in reducing wrinkles, blowing out the blemishes, reducing the pore size and also evens out skin tone.   Contributed by: Minna Gruenke skin care specialist at Facials by Minna located in Kelowna BC Phone 250-764-8761 ### How to cure common skin problems Skin Care is Essential: exploring ways to fight skin problems Skin is one of the most sensitive parts of our body which requires daily care. It is prone to all kinds of problems. One must remember that there is a reason as to why so many products are launched every now and then. Cleansers and Toners, Moisturizers, Anti- Ageing creams, Serums, Exfoliators and Masks, Natural oils, for instance, should be part of one’s daily cosmetic and face care toolkit. Goodbye to Acne Scars: Acne scars commonly appear on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and sometimes upper arms. The scars might take a permanent root to your body too! The easiest symptoms of acne scars are located in certain forms. There are the dark or yellowish bumps called the blackheads and something quite similar except that they do not clear away when pinched, are the whiteheads. Then you have the soft, bruised red bumps called Papules. Pustules are the worse, as it accumulates all the pus in its white tipped centre. Cysts, which resemble boils, are also pus filled bumps, representing the most severe symptom of acne. It might lead to permanent scarring too. The Process involved: In mild cases of acne, Blu-U or Photodynamic Therapy treatment which involves spending about 15 minutes close to the sunlight, once or twice every week works well. A non-laser, visible blue light device is used in this process to do away with the bacteria accrued in the oil glands. In severe cases, levulan (Aminolevulinic acid) is applied to the acne prone areas and left for an hour before the Blu-U treatment begins. Acne can be controlled but is not always totally curable. It must be stressed that on an average it takes at-least about 6-8 weeks for initial results to show. One must follow some protocol while the treatment is in progress- daily use of gentle cleansers- , using only non comedogenic costemics, and no plucking at the whiteheads or blackheads. For speedy recovery with acne scars, chemical peels, laser resurfacing and pulsed light work best. The magic of the Facials– Is in using the best natural skin care products available. How about a facial that uses only the antioxidants and the minerals in Repechage’s seaweed induced tonics? At Kelowna, one finds a customized facials designed to deal with the fragile facial tissues. The Classic European Facial, for example, not only relaxes your skin but also renders to it a hydrated effect. It cleanses the skin of all its bacterial deposits. The facials are actually the best way to combat acne or its return. Not only does the skin breathe more confidently, it even looks bright. Get your free skin care consultation from Facials by Minna and begin your road to beautiful skin. Contributed by Minna Gruenke foremost skin care expert and esthetician serving Kelowna and Area Facials ByMinna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. Phone: 250.764.8761  info@facialskelowna.com ### Boost your hair with coconut oil in the sauna Boost your hair with coconut oil in the sauna Dry hair and split ends? We have the remedy for you! Give your hair a natural beauty boost with a coconut treatment in the sauna. Bleach, dyeing, washing and styling – all those things we put our fragile tressles through tend to take their toll. Your quiet time in the sauna is the perfect opportunity to give your hair some extra love, taking advantage of the heat and how it enhances the effect of hair treatments. There are tons and tons of products in the market, claiming to be miracle performers, but the truth is that just regular, ecological coconut oil will get you a long way. It’s cheaper, it’s kind to the environment and it’s free from the harmful parabens and sulphates that are so often found in regular hair products. Coconut hair treatment for the sauna: Rinse your hair thouroughly Take a tablespoon of ecological coconut oil and heat in between the palms of your hands until it melts. Apply the oil to your hair; all the way from the roots to the ends, giving yourself a relaxing scalp massage at the same time. Leave the treatment in for the full length of your sauna session. You can either choose to just rinse the oil out with water, or wash it out with a mild shampoo, depending on what works best for your hair. Blowdry and style as per usual and enjoy your new, soft and shiny hair. The wonderful coconut smell is an added bonus! Contributed by : Facials by Minna Kelowna BC Phone 250.764.8761 ### Treatments for Sun Damaged Skin A Few reflections before embarking on sun damage skin treatments All of us seek a smooth, tight, flawless skin unfazed by ageing which is in motion or the climatic severities. Want a relief from the sun damage? Spots: Over-exposure to sun damages the cells that produce melanin responsible for skin pigmentation. Dark spots appear on face, chest and hands. These are referred to as sun spots, age spots or dark spots varying from brown, gray or black. Some treatments include the use of lightening creams, laser therapy, chemical peels, freezing and dermabrasion. Sunscreen: It might sound repetitive but the truth is that the daily use of sunscreen SPF30 with zinc oxide is always our first step. It has rhythm to it. One needs to apply it 30 minutes prior to the sun exposure and reply every two hours for effective results. Skin care: To stay away from sun damage, it is a good practice to get into daily skin nurturing routine. There is a whole range of products which include anti-oxidant rich topical creams and gels to chemical and mechanical peels. Laser treatments are there too! These treatments help in reducing uneven pigmentation, take care of rough, wrinkled skin and close the pores. It helps in producing collagen. Anti-oxidants not only help prevent cancer. It also ensures that collagen and elastic tissues steer clear of free radicals, which may cause wrinkling and drooping skin. Chemical exfoliation with droplets of glycolic acid helps get rid of piled up dead skins. How about Skin Lightening treatments? Skin lightening must be sanctioned by a physician and only those products that are suited to one’s skin texture must be used. Tretenoin products like Renova and Retin-A may be useful to begin with, especially for sun damaged skins. Retin A has a side effect whereby, overtime it sensitizes the skin towards sun rays. One must start with a minimum dose and then increase the dosage as per the tolerance level of the skin. The actual skin lightening agent is hydroquinone. It is often referred to as the skin bleach. It helps in containing the uneven production of melanin.  On the other hand, chemical peels and products containing Bearberry extracts, lactic acid and Kojic Acid also help in reducing pigmentation. It is a good idea to use the different varieties for a period of time to expect some noticeable results. Of course, skin care consultation is mandatory before exploring any kinds of treatments.   Contibuted by: Minna Gruenke from Facials by Minna book your appointment for free skin assessment of your skin and advice on how to keep your skin looking years younger. Book Now  Phone :250.764.8761   Facials By Minna ### General Skin Care Basics Lots of people usually neglect the importance of taking care of their skin, on the other side, not few of them also never imagined that there are simple and effective skin care basics for each and everyone of us. Many experts agree that skin care is not only a concern for a select few, but an essential one for everyone, whether for sanitary or aesthetic purposes. Essential skin care is not something difficult to understand, it is only the practical and logical method to take care of our skin, plus the process by which we naturally care of our skin. What you have to remember there are two basic skin care measures that make a difference for everybody and are generally the most efficient one that can be correctly and routinely practiced and ensures that your skin is properly maintained. Let’s throw an eye on these two crucial skin care steps. On top of the list we have cleaning. We cannot deny the reality that skin, most importantly the one that becomes exposed to sunshine, wind, water and other circumstances that exposes it to filth and oxidation, those will end up in drying and oxidation. They’re varying skin types ranging from oily to dry skin and all of us should be able to tell which skin type he or she has. Knowing your type of skin is very important in calculating the type of cleaner that you will want for basic skin cleansing. If you’re having issues trying to determine which type of skin you have, you can visit to a skin doctor or skin care specialist for advice on which ones are a match for your skin type. At the same time don’t forget that facial skin is more sensitive in comparison to body skin, so it is also crucial to note that skin from the neck up requires a bit more particular attention. Skin cleaners are widely obtainable in superstores and drugstores and no one says to purchase the more expensive ones, because what is crucial is to recognize what’s inside. Step two is exfoliation, which is the method which the dead cells on the surface of the skin are “erased” through a gentle skin abrasion process. Exfoliation is usually the most widely practiced procedure of skin care. It is these that are the essentially the 2 most general skincare basics for everybody which ought not to be ignored by anyone who wishes to take care and have a pleasant and healthy skin.   Submitted by: Minna Gruenke Esthetician and foremost skin care expert in the treatment of problem skin. Book your appointment with Minna Today Facials by Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna,BC. Phone 250-764-8761 info@facialskelowna.com  ### Avoid Clogged Pores The good skin care tips can decide between having a okish looking skin and having the type of skin that makes you smile in the mirror. To follow are some awesome skin care tips to keep you looking fresh and lovely, no matter what your age is. 1) Do not smoke and drink to excess. It’s normal to have the occasional glass of wine or a cocktail, but excess drinking can age you fast. Both cigarettes and booze contain toxins that are awful for your skin, smokers are “popular” for having premature aging. 2) Use sun protection. I am tired of saying this: Excess sun exposure will give you wrinkles! Even if some people think they just cannot live without a “golden glow” from tanning, their skin will eventually pay the price. 3. Hydration Go for water, not sodas or coffee, if you want beautiful skin. You have to drink water consistently throughout your day. You must get used to thisWater flushes out impurities, helps keep the skin moisturized from the inside out, and not to mention helps you to control your weight. 4) Sleep! It is vital for awesome skin. Not only does lack of sleep show on your skin, it also influences your overall health. If you are overtired, you are also not at your most productive anyway, so why not call it a night, and get to sleep? 5) Do something. Exercise takes blood and nutrients to the surface of the skin, and sweating eliminates impurities, which means that it is fantastic for your skin. By the way remember to shower well when you are finished to maintain your pores from being clogged by sweat. This will keep out outbreaks and rashes. Contributed by: Minna Gruenke esthetician and foremost authority on skin care. Facials by Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. Phone 250-764-8761 info@facialskelowna.com ### What is SPF? Sunscreen skin care doesn’t finish when summer does. The summer sun can take a toll on your skin causing dryness, wrinkles, and brown spots but, summer’s not the only time skin damage can occur. Skin exposed to the sun in the fall, winter and spring can also cause damage and an increased incidence of skin cancer . The Skin Cancer Foundation states that more than one million skin cancer cases are diagnosed each year. There are some simple steps to keep your skin protected no matter what time of year it is. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes prior to sun exposure. The protective ingredients in sunscreen need time to react with the skin and start working. Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen. One to two ounces (the size of a shot glass) should be applied to the body and a teaspoon to the face. Reapply sunscreen every two hours. Most blocking ingredients start to deteriorate after two hours once applied. Swimming, sweating, and drying off with a towel can remove the sunscreen even if it is waterproof. Know the SPF numbers. An SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97%, and SPF 50 blocks 99%. Take in consideration that the doubling of SPF numbers does not mean a doubling of protection. Wear at least SPF 15 every day on your face and hands. These are the areas exposed to the sun the most all year round. Don’t forget to protect your lips with an SPF lip balm. Be aware of the chemical laden sunscreens. Many of these toxins can penetrate the skin and cause health concerns. Pick a sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays. Skin damage can take place each time your skin is exposed to the sun without protection. That can add up to a lot of abuse over the course of a lifetime. A daily routine with sunscreen protection can go a long way in preventing dry, wrinkled, aging skin and lower your risk for skin cancer. Contributed by : Minna Gruenke esthetician and foremost expert in skin care and anti aging. Book your appointment Today! Facials by Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. Phone 250-764-8761 info@facialskelowna.com ### Why waxing is preferred for hair removal ? Since the ancient times, a silky, smooth and hairless skin has been considered ideal for the feminine beauty. Hair removal is definitely a personal choice, but in the modern day, women give utmost importance to the process of hair removal. Waxing is a popular hair removal process, that is practiced in homes and salons. Shaving is also another method that is exercised by many women as it is less time consuming. There are several benefits which make waxing hair removal technique an apt process. Benefits of waxing for hair removal over shaving Waxing pulls hair from the roots and thus lasts longer Slower and finer hair growth after waxing Waxing makes the skin silky smooth unlike shaving that leaves the skin rough and abrasive. Your skin will be less prone to irritability unlike shaving If done properly, waxing can be pain free. There is no concern of cuts and nicks associated with waxing. The above points will prove why waxing is considered as a convenient method and a more preferred one over shaving and other modern techniques of hair removal. Threading is not for the entire body hair removal Threading is yet another ancient hair removal process that makes use of cotton thread and twisted around the individual hair. The process also helps to eliminate hair from the roots. But threading is appropriate from eyebrows, upper lips, facial hair or smaller areas of the skin and are not recommended for full body hair removal. It can really painful if men try out the technique since they have thicker hair. Moreover, it is recommended that threading must be done under the supervision of a professional beautician. Sugaring is costlier than waxing Sugaring is the process that is more or less similar to waxing. Because of the use of the natural ingredients like sugar, honey and lemon, it is best for sensitive skin. But the problem is that the majority of the salons and parlors prefer the method of waxing. In case, you find a salon where sugaring hair removal is exercised, it will be way costlier and expensive than waxing. Furthermore, the process can be painful. Laser hair removal is not for everyone The laser hair removal is a modern process and many women prefer it because it helps in the permanent hair removal. But the problem is that the technique is not suitable for all types of skin. In case, your skin tone is on the darker side, you will not be recommended with the process. Moreover, it is no doubt a very costly hair removal method. When you are selecting a particular hair removal method, skin care must be given the priority. The above discussion proves why waxing is a preferred option when it is about hair removal.   Contributed By:  Minna Gruenke of Facials by Minna 720 McClure rd. Kelowna, BC. V1W-1M3 Phone: 250-764-8761 info@facialskelowna.com ### Should I Get a Chemical Peel? Chemical Peels are very popular and when done right, can give you some amazing results. It’s the least invasive procedure to correcting skin issues. And the best part? No downtime. Some clients may experience minimal flaking but if home care products are being used properly, then you will be okay to face the public.? Great for those with one (or more) of the following problems… Acne Acne scars and post-breakout marks Sun damage Fine lines Wrinkles Large pores (help the appearance of) Freckles Age spots Skin in need of smoothing Anti-aging A chemical peel is applied to the skin to remove and exfoliate the outer layers so that a clearer and more glowing skin can appear. The new skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled and the peels are conducive in the stimulation of fibroblasts and creating new collagen. Each peel series is fully customized for each client. Skin is really like snowflakes so it’s important to address it individually. Professional Home care products are key to producing great results. If you are using products at home that I recommend such as the all natural cremes and cleansers from Serene and Repechage, then I know exactly how they work together with the peels. This is an important step, not just for the results but also for the condition of your skin during the series. for more information on Chemical peels and how they can improve your complexion please contact Minna at Facials by Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. Phone: 250-764-8761 info@facialskelowna.com ### Comparing waxing with other methods of hair removal There are myriad techniques to choose from when it comes hair removal. There are some that are expensive, some complicated, a few of them painful and some better than the other. No matter how many new techniques have popped up in this genre, waxing still seems to be the favorite hair removal process in salons and parlors all around the world. Let us find out why waxing hair removal is preferred over other methods. Waxing vs shaving Unlike waxing, shaving can give you razor burn that can be really painful. Shaving needs to be done on a daily basis and thus it is time consuming. On the other hand, waxing done once a month is enough to maintain the smooth skin. With regular waxing on the body hairs, the growth of hair gets reduced. You can enjoy long lasting effect with waxing. Waxing vs sugaring Sugaring is more painful than waxing The majority of the parlors prefers waxing over sugaring Sugaring is costlier than waxing Waxing vs plucking Plucking can be done only in a limited area, and is not a good idea for the whole body Plucking can be disastrous if your hands are shaky or is not done by a professional. Waxing can be carried out by anyone who knows the technique. Plucking can be really painful, especially if you have a sensitive skin and cannot bear the pain. Hair regrows at the same area within a few or so. With waxing you don’t have to worry about regrowth for at least 3 weeks and even more. Waxing vs laser hair removal Laser hair removal technique is a permanent hair removal solution, but it is not meant for everyone. It is especially not recommended for the darker toned people. Waxing, is no doubt for all kinds of skin type. Waxing is easily available in almost every salon, whereas, laser treatment is accessible only in a few clinics. Waxing is cheaper than laser treatment that can cost up to thousands of dollars depending on the number of sitting required. There are no harmful side effects of waxing except from redness or irritation. On the other hands, if the laser method doesn’t suit, it damages the skin badly. If you explore the genre of hair removal, you will come across a number of methods. But, waxing is the preferred one than most of the other techniques. It is not only cheaper and convenient, but also used natural ingredients that is automatically beneficial for skin care. Contributed by: Minna Gruenke Kelowna Esthetician from Facials by Minna 720 McClure rd. Kelowna, BC. V1W-1M3 info@facialskelowna.com ### Taking care of acne prone skin or treating oily skin properly Pimple or acne breakout is one of the common skin troubles that affect people of different age group. It usually begins at early teen and is often a considered as daunting task, filled with puss and painful. Various types of remedial solutions are available. Some of the popular ones include aromatherapy, over the counter prescribed by certified doctor and even homemade solutions. Fight against acne from the very beginning The very first time when you notice the acne breakout, you must start fighting against it. Acne skin care regime must be initiated from the very first breakout, or else things might get difficult in the later stages with blemishes and acne spots. In order to get rid of the acne, effective skin care treatments must be practiced. Regular skin regime is important If you have been struggling with acne prone skin for a long time, a regular acne skin regimen is the best weapon. One of the prime reasons for the breakout of pimples and acne is the presence of excessive oil on your skin secreted from the sebum gland. This blocks the pores on your facial skin, giving rise of pimples along with other related issues like blackheads and whiteheads. What should be your acne skin care regime? Astringents and toners You must use astringents and toners that contain alpha hydroxyl acid or glycolic acid as they are excellent for toning the face and also eliminating the scars. Moreover, the pore size of your face also reduces and the skin gets exfoliated. Moisturizers While you are undergoing facial treatments for pimples, drying out of the face is evident. You must use moisturizers that are oil free and best for the sensitive skin. Moisturizers with salicylic acid and glycolic acid are preferred as it gives protection to your skin all day long. Salicylic acid It helps in the opening of the pores and also clears your skin from bacteria and dirt. Basically its function is to reduce the cell lining shedding of the follicles of the sebum glands. SD Alcohol 40 The excess oil and sebum is the main reason behind the acne breakout. SD Alcohol 40 removes them and ensures that your skin appears to be shiny. If you carry out the acne treatments with the items mentioned above, there is every possibility that your skin will be less prone to acne breakouts and even gradually it will be under control.   Contributed by: Facials by Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. Info@facialskelowna.com www.facialskelowna.com ### Turn Off For Better Skin Health   Have you ever given much thought to how the time you spend looking at a phone or computer screen affects your skin? I certainly didn’t. But, lately I’ve been hearing about how the blue light that emanates from our variously-sized computer screens can actually end up aging our skin. I find that I spend a whole lot of time sitting in front of a screen. It just so happens that it’s a big part of my job. That’s probably true for most of us. The computer has worked its way into so many corners of our lives that it’s really hard not to spend even a little time staring at a screen every day. So, what should we be doing to protect our skin if disconnecting from our computers is a little nigh impossible? First, moisturize! I have found that one task to solve a whole lot of problems. The best time for me to lather on the cream is right before bed. There’s some evidence, too, that skin absorbs nutrients better during sleep. So, that’s good. Second, try to disconnect from every kind of screen for at least a few hours every day. Get outside, if you can. Better yet, step into a little luxury spa treatment. Even a 5 minute steam shower will moisturize, hydrate, and rejuvenate your skin. You’ll feel like a million bucks again! Take a look at these Summer Skin Treatments. Want to know more about how steam showers can benefit your skin health? Contributed by: Minna Gruenke skin care specialist and foremost expert in spa and skin care treatments. Facials by Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. Phone 250-764-8761 info@facialskelowna.com   ### 3 Tips For A Perfect Spa Vacation Not only is it a long weekend, it’s the kick-off to vacation season. Are you planning to go away this year? Let us know where you’ll be heading off to this year! One of the more popular vacation ideas that’s been trending for a few years now is the spa vacation. Even for those of us who can opt to luxuriate in our own home steam showers, the idea of jet-setting off to a tropical locale and indulging in some well-deserved spa treatment is irresistible.   So, before you pack your bags and call the pet sitter, have a seat and review these tips to ensure a fabulous vacation. Make a list of exactly what you’re looking for. Do you want to have the opportunity to take part in workshops, or do you just want to lounge on the beach? Check the spas list of products and costs. Do they offer what you’re looking for as an all-inclusive package, or will you have to pay separately for every aspect of your stay and experience? If you’re traveling with someone who’s not a spa aficionado, you’ll want to make sure that he or she will have something interesting to do while you luxuriate in a special treatment or two. Make sure that the spa you’d like to visit offers complimentary locker room, change facilities, slipper, robes, towels, hair dryers, showers, and anything else you might like to have at your disposal. Ask questions about the packages on offer. Sometimes, spas will offer a discount if you combine certain packages like facials, massage, lymphatic drainage. Google the spa for images. Although the brochure might claim to have ambiance to spare, seeing pictures of the facility will confirm it one way or another.   Contributed by: Minna Gruenke, facial and skin care specialist and foremost expert in spa treatments, Facials By Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. V1W 1M3 Phone: 250-764-8761 info@facialskelowna.com www.facialskelowna.com ### Peels, Peels, Peels. Let’s Change Your Skin! I LOVE Peels! The season is here so book your series now and let’s get started!! A chemical peel is a skin-resurfacing procedure. There is little to no downtime (minimal flaking) and the results are amazing! Benefits: Smoother, Younger Looking Skin  ~Helps with Fine Lines and Wrinkles ~Hyperpigmentation  ~Texture  ~Acne Scars  ~Large Pores (reducing the appearance) 1. You don’t have to peel with a peel. 2. Visible exfoliation (flaking) is a symptom of the treatment. Everyone is different. Some may flake in certain areas on their face, some may flake all over and some may not flake at all. 3. Cellular change takes place in the epidermis (top layer) and dermis (2nd layer), regardless of the amount of visible flaking. 4. Peels are usually done in a series for best results. One will not give you what you want. 5. I will not do a peel on a new client until we have a consultation and/or a facial. It’s important that we are on the same page as far as what you want, what you can expect and what will actually be done. Plus, I need to see and touch your skin. 6. Home care products are key to producing great results. If you are using products at home that I recommended, then I know exactly how they work together with the peels. This is an important step. Not just for the results but also for the condition of your skin during the series. I’m almost hesitant to even do a series without the client using my products. When you purchase a series and products, it is always a better price. 7. Grape Seed Oil helps tremendously with these peels! This client has done 2 Peel Series in 5 years and is very consistent with her home care routine, using all products I have recommended. Book Your Appointment Today! Contributed by:  Minna Gruenke, Esthetician and skin care expert Facials By Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. V1W 1M3 Phone: 250-764-8761 info@facialskelowna.com www.facialskelowna.com ### Get Your Glow Back With Steam Therapy Don’t be alarmed, but you’re under attack every day. But don’t take it personally—it’s your skin that’s under attack, and every single person is at risk. Skin is constantly under siege from pollutants, allergens, and toxins that fill the air from artificial and natural sources. Even indoors your skin isn’t immune from irritants that can clog pores and damage tissue. Makeup alone can do a number on your skin. Enemies of skin can be found within, as well. Poor circulation and stress can cause blemishes, dryness, pimples, and discoloring. A bad diet can add to your skin woes, filling your bloodstream with unhealthy chemicals that find their way deep into skin cells. Then there’s the weakening of skin elasticity from aging. The Cost of Good Skin Of course, this isn’t news to you—especially if you’re a woman. One survey found that the average woman in the U.S. spends about $300,000 in beauty products over a lifetime, much of that related to improving skin quality. And that’s not counting spa treatments and other rituals that cost plenty. While skin creams, lotions, cleansers, facials, and skin treatments can help, these solutions to healthier skin are only, well, skin deep. More is at stake than cosmetic beauty. [1] Healthy skin is an important part of any successful wellness plan. To keep skin healthy is more than a surface battle. You need stronger tools to fight against this daily onslaught to your epidermis, and chances are, you’re overlooking one of the most effective ways to cleanse and rejuvenate skin: steam heat therapy. Regular sessions in a steam room can help boost everything from cardiovascular health to stress response. But where the benefits really begin is in the flushing of impurities from your clogged pores. Here’s what the science says about the benefits of steam on skin. Empowering Skin’s Natural Defenses Skin is the largest organ in the body, and its physiology is complex. The main layers of skin are the epidermis on top, then the dermis, and finally subcutaneous tissue. The outer most layer of the epidermis is called the “stratum corneum,” which means “horny layer” in Latin. This layer is made of dead cells, which form a protective barrier from harmful elements. The thickness of the stratum corneum (SC) varies around the body, but it’s more effective when it’s able to hold water. This is why dry skin so often leads to damaged skin. Dry skin doesn’t contain the protective moisture it needs. Heat from steam rooms actually helps maintain the water capacity of SC’s protective cells.[2] This means more defense from exterior and interior toxins and waste products that want to take root in your epidermis. One study showed that heat therapy can also help stabilize surface pH in skin.[3] Healthy pH is made from the amino acids in sweat and free fatty acids in the skin’s sebaceous glands. This is maintenance care, and easier to achieve with the therapeutic sweating that results from the humidity of a steam room. Or as researchers put it, heat therapy can create a “more stable epidermal barrier function.” [4] By bolstering skin’s natural defenses, you’re better able to clear away toxins and bacteria with simple daily washing. But sometimes cleaning your skin isn’t enough to remove tissue-damaging particles. That’s where the flushing action of heat rooms comes into play. Open Your Pores, Flush Out the Bad Stuff The term, “let your skin breathe,” isn’t far from the truth of how your epidermis reacts to its environment. Pores become clogged with germs, bacteria, waste products that aren’t evident to the naked eye. Over-the-counter creams and lotions alone can’t reach these deeply embedded little nasties gumming up the works. That’s not a problem in the steam room. Heat from a steam room is humid, which hydrates your skin. This helps flush out surface toxins that collect and stick to your skin that you collect throughout your day. This prevents the bad stuff from coagulating and forming blackheads, pimples, and other skin eruptions. The increased sweating from steam heat helps enhance the flushing process. The average person will sweat as much as a pint during a single 15-minute session in a steam room.[5] How deep can steam go? One study revealed that heat therapy helped lower dangerous metal toxins—including mercury, cadmium, lead, and arsenic—in the bloodstream. These elements can harm your health, and that includes skin damage.[6] Even pesticides can be cleared from the skin as a result of heat therapy.[7] To get more out of your steam room session, you should remove all makeup residue, lotions, and any other skin-care products. And make sure your steam room sessions are consistent. This helps keep your pores clear, your pH stable, and your skin hydrated. Make sure you shower after your steam session to wash these loosened particulates from your skin. More Blood Flow, More Skin Glow Steam therapy greatly increases cutaneous (skin) circulation, according to research.[8] This enhanced circulation is to compensate for the increase body heat caused by a steam room session. This increase in skin circulation causes blood vessels to dilate in the skin, which helps create that glowing appearance that many enjoy after time in a steam room. Steam rooms can also increase blood and lymphatic circulation, which also helps to flush out impurities from your bloodstream and skin.[9]This effect also helps overall cardiovascular health, which keeps cells healthy. Sallow skin, discoloration, and age spots are often caused by poor circulation.[10] Stress reduction is another benefit of steam rooms. Not only does steam heat relax you, it also has beneficial effects on stress hormones like cortisol, the fight-or-flight hormone.[11] Too much cortisol can damage your cells, including skin. Pressures of modern life—traffic, overwork, demands of technology—can increase this stress hormone, so time in a steam room is a perfect way to relax at the end of a day. Steam heat can also help raise serotonin, a neurotransmitter that’s a key mood regulator, as well as melatonin, a hormone that promotes relaxation and sleep.[12] Also, sessions in a steam room can help greatly reduce inflammation on the cellular level.[13] Inflammation has been implicated in causing a number of illnesses and chronic conditions, and can wreak havoc on your skin quality as well.   When You Go Hot, Go Steam Not all heat is created equal. When you’re looking to improve your skin quality, you want the humidity of a steam room. While dry heat can help some aspects of skin quality, the deep flushing action of steam can’t be beat when it comes to removing toxins and impurities from your epidermis. Your skin tells the story of your overall health. Your skin not only contends with airborne toxins, but also the waste products your body emits on a constant basis. With just a few 15-minute sessions per week in a steam room, you will go a long way in keeping your skin youthful, healthy, and glowing. References: [1] http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-4383930/How-Women-U-S-Spend-Beauty-Products.html [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18525205 [3] Ibid [4] Ibid [5] https://www.huffingtonpost.com/Greatist/the-best-health-and-fitne_b_11015444.html [6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3312275/ [7] https://www.trihealth.com/…and…/trihealth…health-pavilion/…/health-benefits.aspx [8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3218896 [9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3916915/ [10] https://www.healthydirections.com/in-circulation-facts-about-blood-flow-and-healthy-skin [11] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3916915/ [12] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2077351/ [13] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4049052/ Contact us: Facials By Minna 720 McClure Rd, Kelowna, BC V1W 1M3 https://facialskelowna.com (250) 764-8761 ### Best Type of Hair Removal Waxing over other Hair Removal Techniques As women, a lot of us feel the need to maintain smooth and hairless skin. Be it for personal hygiene or for professionalism, women tend to maintain a routine hair removal cycle. This cycle includes several options such as shaving, waxing or using epilators and electric trimmers. Apart from that, there is laser too. But above all, waxing is the best option. Here’s why: The Downside of other Hair Removal techniques: Shaving with a razor is time consuming and if done in a hurry, it may result in shaving bumps and cuts. Open wounds are unhygienic and are a means to developing infection. Almost all people are sensitive towards razors, which leaves them with reddish patches over their skin for a period of time. Over a period of time, shaving aggravates hair growth. However, the hair growing does not remain to be thinner. It is a lot coarser in nature. Epilators and Electric trimmers are safer than razors but do not offer a clean and smooth skin. This is because they cannot get to the roots and remove the hairs from your skin. A topical trimming mechanism leaves you with an appearance of hairless skin but does not give you a smooth finish. Hair Removal Creams: A lot of these creams cause allergies amongst individuals. Regular usage is known to cause the skin to get darker. Waxing is the key: The myth about waxing hair removal is that people presume that it’s a lot of pain to deal with. When done right and by a professional, waxing is definitely not painful. Waxing also deals with ingrown hairs. Unlike shaving, waxing does not leave you with a coarse growth of hair. Regular waxing has shown a significant decrease in overall hair growth. While some waxing salons are an expensive affair, there are several salons that offer a reasonal and good waxing service. Facials by Minna offers waxing for the face, arms and legs for women while offering back and chest waxing for men at reasonable cost. Waxing leaves you with visibly smooth skin and does not darken your skin over a period of time. Besides, waxing once a month is more than enough to maintain hairless skin.  There are no chances of nicks and bumps after waxing and your skin is also less prone to irritation. For maintaining good skin for years to come, switch to waxing hair removal.   Contributed By: Minna Gruenke Esthetician, Waxing and Skin Care Specialist Facials By Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. V1W-1M3 Phone 250-764-8761 www.facialskelowna.com ### Taking Control of Psoriasis. Does Steam Help? The therapeutic effect of steam rooms is becoming a viable option for the care and management of this chronic skin disease. Here’s how psoriasis sufferers can use steam therapy to get their life back. Skin diseases don’t just threaten health; they can have a devastating effect on self-esteem, mental health, and general wellness. Those who suffer from psoriasis know this all too well. Perspective on Psoriasis About 7.5 million people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with psoriasis, and this chronic condition doesn’t discriminate. Recently, Kim Kardashian revealed that she has psoriasis, and model/actress Cara Delevigne, golfer Phil Michelson, and singer Cyndi Lauper also suffer from the disease. Rich, poor, male, female, young and old—psoriasis can afflict anyone. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), approximately 80% of those with psoriasis have what’s called plaque psoriasis, which is characterized by lesions and red patches of flaky skin with slivery white scales. It’s both painful and unsightly. Many with psoriasis also suffer from joint pain and arthritis, and diabetes has also been associated with the condition. There is no cure for psoriasis, and treatment can be costly. The AAD reports that those afflicted pay anywhere between $51.7 billion and $63.2 billion annually to treat the disease. It’s not surprising that psoriasis can negatively affect a person’s emotion well-being. The ADD estimates that as many as 50% of those with psoriasis suffer from depression. And while it’s not contagious, it’s often mistaken for diseases that can spread, leaving psoriasis sufferers often feeling like outcasts. If you have psoriasis, or know somebody with the skin disease, none of this is news to you. Experts aren’t sure of the exact cause of psoriasis, but they consider it a disease of the immune system, and it’s considered a hereditary condition. Psoriasis is associated with cardiovascular disease, and severe cases don’t respond well to current treatments. For mild-to-moderate cases, dermatologists have a range of options available to them, and often turn to topical emollients, nutrients (e.g., vitamin D), corticosteroids and other pharmaceutical agents to combat the condition. One treatment option that is often overlooked and may help psoriasis suffers on multiple levels is the simple act of spending time in a steam room. Here’s how heat therapy can go a long way to help psoriasis sufferers reduce the pain and stigma of the disease. Skin and Humidity Multiple studies have confirmed the benefits of steam rooms on skin, and these therapeutic effects are likely to extend to psoriasis. While triggers vary between people, one study found that low-humidity, especially cold winter air, can thicken the top layer of skin, which can lead to an immune response that increases inflammation. Another study asserted that low humidity is a risk factor for flare-ups of the disease, so the moist heat from a steam room may relieve symptoms and help prevent a breakout. Some psoriasis sufferers utilize facial steamers to help remove skin flakes and reduce redness, while opening up pores that will better absorb healing lotions and cleansers that are applied afterward. Steam can also help reduce itching and surface irritation of the skin. The amount of time needed to produce benefits can be as short as 5-7 minutes, so be aware of how long you spend in a steam room or with a steam product when dealing with psoriasis. Reduce Stress, Reduce Triggers Those suffering from psoriasis often point to stress as a trigger for flare-ups. Steam rooms are known to help reduce stress and enhance feelings of well-being. Not only can a session in a stream room relax the body in a general sense, biological responses to heat therapy can exert a number of positive effects. This occurs through a spectrum of mechanisms. When a body is in stress, it releases hormones such as cortisol, which can damage cells in the body and weaken the immune system, reducing the effectiveness of white blood cells. A single session in a steam room can help reduce cortisol, and help strengthen white blood cells. The body’s stress response also releases free radicals, groups of atoms that exert “oxidative stress” on cells. Heat therapy releases heat shock proteins that can reduce this damaging oxidative stress, which helps protect cells, according to research. Stress also increases inflammation, which is a prime trigger for outbreaks of psoriasis. Less inflammation helps relieve discomfort from joint and connective tissue pain, a frequent complaint of psoriasis victims. In fact, research has found that steam therapy can help reduce overall pain from inflammation and other causes of discomfort. As well, the “epidural blood perfusion” of heat therapy helps increase circulation, which can help eliminate toxins. Flushing toxins from the bloodstream and the epidermis can strengthen the overall immune system to go after the underlying causes of psoriasis. An Overall Wellness Boost A condition like psoriasis can be difficult to manage for a number of reasons. Dermatologists have palliative remedies, some quite effective, but an outright cure isn’t available and flare-ups can strike at any time. This is one reason why so many victims of this disease suffer from mental health issues. Feeling good is more than skin deep, and this is where steam rooms can really help those struggling with psoriasis. Steam therapy helps release serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter that’s associated with depression. The less serotonin you have, the more depressed you’re likely to be. That’s why so many prescription medications for depression are SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), which helps regulate this critical chemical in the brain. Steam rooms help raise levels of this important neurotransmitter naturally. As noted earlier, steam therapy from sessions in a steam room exert a positive effect on many physiological systems—hormonal, respiratory, neurological, musculoskeletal—and this comprehensive wellness enhancement can only benefit those suffering from psoriasis. And heat therapy has also been associated with an increase in overall longevity, once again reinforcing the boost in general health that a steam room can provide. With a cure elusive and the prime causes of psoriasis a mystery, victims of this disease can use another option in their day-to-day management of this serious condition. Spending time in a steam room may be a simple but effective way to help keep flare-ups and symptoms at bay. Give it a try and see what it can do for you. Contributed by:  Skin Care expert Minna Gruenke at Facials By Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. V1W-1M3 Phone 250-764-8761 ### DIY Beauty Salon Treatments On A Home Budget They say beauty comes at a price, and this is especially true when it comes to talking about beauty treatments. We’ve all had the experience of paying top dollar for any of the three main areas of personal care – anything to do with hair, nails and skin. Maintaining a regular salon-based beauty regimen for these can truly burn a hole in your wallet and while a pamper splurge here and there is fine, in the long run, it would probably be wisest to try doing these treatments at home, especially if they can save you money in the long run.   While there are still specialised treatments that you can’t recreate at home (and you shouldn’t, since it requires equipment and expertise), beauty treatments have come a long way and here are some that you can DIY with minimal effort.   HAIR For hair care, there is a range of treatments that you can easily avail of at home, depending on your particular hair problem. If it’s the usual moisture boost needed, coming from everyday wear and tear, there are several homemade remedies that can be done, from overnight deep conditioning treatments of coconut oil to an easy 15-20 minute honey hair pack that you can rinse out before showering. The best thing about it is that a lot of ingredients are natural and easily found in your pantry. If you feel that’s not your style, there are several beauty products that you can purchase at the local drugstore and try at home. These also include colour dyes, another hair treatment that you can easily transport to doing a home (though if you’ll be doing a major colour change, that’s something that should be left to the experts). Don’t forget to grab 2 boxes of your hair dye, especially if you have long hair. You wouldn’t want to be running out of colour in the middle of it all.   NAILS More than great hair and nails, ladies feel extra glam and pampered when their nail game is on. Regular maintenance of nails (not to mention your hands) is easily done at home, just make sure of have all the needed equipment for your mani pedi kit – nail file, bluffing block, clipper, orangewood stick, cuticle oil, non-acetone nail polish remover and of course nail polish in your favourite shades. You know the basics so let’s level it up a bit with what’s the craze in the nail business: gel nail polish.   Getting gel nails done regularly can be pretty expensive but with so many home kits now available, it doesn’t have to be so. Just learn the proper step by step in doing your own gel nails, buy the kit that comes with all the needed equipment and you can now feel extra posh and stylish on an everyday budget.   SKIN With it being the largest, not to mention the most visible organ of our body, we certainly should take care of our skin. We usually put a lot of attention on our face and there are a million treatments that can give you perfect skin. There are beauty regimens like the 10-step Korean skin-care regimen that can be simplified to make it fit better into your budget and routine (because who really has time to do all that at the end of the day?). There are oils, peeling treatments, face masks and natural home remedies that you can again easily DIY from your kitchen.   A great tip would be to spend more time on skin care rather than make-up. While the power of make-up is undeniable, it can also ultimately lead to skin problems if you aren’t doing the proper skin care for it. Remember to cleanse gently but completely and have the skin care basics down pat – clean, tone and moisturize. Don’t forget the rest of your body either. Try a DIY Cleopatra milk bath that not only pampers the skin on your whole body but leaves you feeling like a queen after a long soak in the tub.     For more information Contact Facials By Minna 720 MCCLURE RD KELOWNA, British Columbia V1W 1M3 Canada Phone: 250-764-8761 Email: info@facialskelowna.com URL: https://facialskelowna.com ### MAINTAINING SOFT SKIN IN THE WINTER Cold weather, a drop in humidity, indoor heat cranked up, and increasing use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers contribute to excessively dry skin on your hands. This also can lead to painful and unsightly cuticles. Long, hot showers feel good, but leave you standing in a pool of hot water and the runoff of drying sulfate soaps which also rob you of skin’s natural oil. The result being dry and cracked heals and feet. When it comes to keeping hands and feet soft and moisturized this winter, here are a few easy tips to follow: Cleanse with a surfactant and sulfate-free cleanser while washing your hands and taking showers. Sulfate cleansers are generally higher in pH (alkaline) and strip the good oils from skin—leaving you parched and dry. Exfoliate to slough off unsightly dead skin and to allow your moisturizers/balms to penetrate more effectively. Try to avoid extremely harsh abrasives that can further tear dry skin. Choose ingredients that can gently roll away dead skin or gently dissolve it. If you do not have an exfoliator, soak in a mixture of honey, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice will help remove dry, callused skin. Moisturize hands and feet after a shower while the skin is still damp. This will help lock in the moisture on the surface and not allow it to evaporate as skin dries.  Look for ingredients like cocoa seed butter and sunflower seed oil as these ingredients are very effective in softening and harnessing moisture. Sunflower seed oil is a fatty acid rich in linoleic acid and can help maintain the balance of the skin barrier and decrease trans-epidermal water loss. Apply a cuticle oil on your hands and feet to help prevent painful hangnails. This can be especially effective when applied prior to bed time, as the heat of the body at night will aid in greater absorption. Skip the wool socks when it’s chilly outside. The rubbing of wool against your feet removes natural fats from the skin, causing moisture loss. A better bet: soft, cotton socks. Before bed, slather feet with a product that contains both natural oils for moisture and occlusive agents such as beeswax or petrolatum. Cover feet with cotton socks—you’ll wake up with smoother, softer feet. Contributed by:  Minna Gruenke Esthetician and Skin care expert Facials By Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. V1W-1M3 Info@facialskelowna.com www.facialskelowna.com ### 5 Ways to Expand Your Spa Business If you run a spa and you have a successful venture so far, its time for you to expand. Don’t worry; this is not impossible. There are several ways you can expand your spa. Just follow our tips, and you will be fine. 1. Outdoor Area with Idyllic Views People see the spa as an escape from their daily stress. They want to get away from their hectic routine. They want a solace even if it’s only available for a few hours. This is the reason people call these “Spa Break.” In cold reason, the guy’s ways to enjoy their treatments. Strike up a conversation in the jacuzzi and wrap up in a warm bed with a drink. But when it comes to the hot months, people want to enjoy the hot weather while it lasts. If you are Looking for spa For Sale Newcastle Nsw then you better look for an area which can help you take advantage of this. If you have some land you are going to build on; you have made half the progress. You can plan your expansion and create an ideal spot which people will use to stay outdoor. If you don’t have this space, then you might feel your business is outgrowing the current location. Its time you plan a relocation. Once you have an outdoor area available, you only have two choices; you can keep things simple and tackle it financially in case you install pleasant seats. You need some garden features and a sun lounge. You can also invest in a swimming pool or hot tub. If you want to grow your business and you have plans but can’t do it because of money, then you can get a loan to help your financial constraint. 2. Sell Products Use in Treatments You can use your spa to sell products. It’s more than the expert techniques and music that attract people to spas in the first place. People also read out the treatment you offer them. The products you use means the difference between life and death for your business. They can help you lose or attain repeating customers. You need to offer trial versions of your products. Once you sell the product, you should get feedback from the user. This will give you a clear direction of what to do next. 3. Invest in Hydrotherapy This is a growing trend in the spa industry. If you want to set yourself apart from others, then you have to offer hydrotherapy as whole-body treatment. It takes place in water and uses physiotherapy as used in the standard pool. The pools used in this therapy are different as they use different pressure, movement of water and temperature Don’t advise You need to mind the basics; this includes baths and mineral with shower massage. 4. Fire and ice Do you know that more and more spas these days are offering such treatments? They are not falling behind to invest in ice and fire treatment when it comes to their business. Your clients deserve to know they splashed a luxury experience and offer body scrub with a pedicure. This will be enough to meet their expectations in the long run. If your spa has been trending for a few months and taking card payments, then you can find alternative funding. Opening and maintaining a spa business is not easy to maintain — this type of business springs high amount of income. A spa venture demands some financial commitment to start with, keeping up to date with them is not as easy as it looks. 5. Create an Experience You should know by now that people don’t pay for service or product. Instead, they pay for the experience. Questionnaires delve deep into the needs and desires of the customer. They are more frequently used, and it can help you offer a far better service. Luxury spa offers a wide range of services and experience for its customer base. Some people use advance services for non-invasive treatments including facial and slimming procedures. The elegant décor and distinct interior design can be compelling. It features innovative furnishing accented with ornaments. You have to invest to give your clients a rich experience that they won’t forget for long. This is the success of your business. Contributed by: Minna Gruenke Esthetician and spa expert in Kelowna BC. Facials By Minna 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. Phone 250-764-8761 ## Pages ### Intake Form ### Thank You       Thank You! We've received your form submission Your Submission is Complete We appreciate you taking the time to fill out our form. Our team will review your information and get back to you shortly.   What Happens Next? We'll review your information within 24 hours You'll receive a confirmation email shortly Our team will contact you if we need additional information You'll hear from us regarding next steps within 2 business days   ### Opti-Firm Eye Lift Treatment Opti-Firm Eye Lift Treatment Opti-Firm Eye Treatment – 30min – $25 Sleepy baggy eyes, dark circles and puffiness can give away a tired and dull look on your face. Opti-firm Eye treatment handles everything that concerns the skin around your eyes. Since it is a very sensitive area, gentle products and techniques are used. Towards the end of a session, you will notice fresh eyes and a significant reduction in dark circles as well. It is the perfect 30 minute treatment for people who want a quick refresher. Benefits of an Opti Firm eye lift - Cooling gel based treat for your eyes, Designed for you when you want to look refreshed. Perfect anytime but especially before an important meeting or special event. Clinically proven ingredients work to reduce wrinkles, puffiness and dark circles around the eye area. 01 01 02 A Deep-Down Cleansing The eye area is gently cleansed to remove makeup, oil, and impurities, preparing the skin for treatment. Exfoliation A mild exfoliant is applied to smooth the delicate eye area, promoting cell renewal and enhancing product absorption. 03 04 04 04 04 Lifting Massage A specialized massage technique is used with nutrient-rich serums to stimulate circulation and reduce puffiness. Firming Eye Mask A cooling, nutrient-infused eye mask is applied to tighten, hydrate, and brighten the skin while reducing dark circles and fine lines. 06 Serum & Moisturizer Application A firming peptide serum and hydrating eye cream are applied to lock in moisture, smooth wrinkles, and protect the skin. 05 Final Touch & Protection A lightweight, protective treatment is gently applied to ensure lasting results, leaving the eyes looking lifted, refreshed, and youthful. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naqm6BbcnzY Book your Opti-Firm Eye Lift Treatment with Minna Today 778-717-3096 Opti-Firm Eye Treatment – 30min – $25 ### Where you can find Facials By Minna     How to Find Facials by Minna Facials by Minna is located at 720 McClure Road in Kelowna, easily accessible from various parts of the city. From Downtown Kelowna, take Highway 97 North (Harvey Avenue) towards the airport. Turn right onto McClure Road and continue straight until you reach our location, which will be on your left. If you're coming from Glenmore, head south on Gordon Drive, then turn right onto McClure Road. Continue down McClure and you’ll find us on your right, just before the intersection with Highway 97. From Rutland, head south on Highway 97 and take the exit onto McClure Road. Continue west, and Facials by Minna will be on your right, just before you reach the McClure Road and Highway 97 intersection. For those coming from Kelowna Airport, head south on Highway 97, then take a left onto McClure Road. Our location will be on the left side, shortly after the turn. No matter where you’re coming from, Facials by Minna is easy to find, and we look forward to welcoming you to our skincare oasis!      ### Contact Us Schedule A Free Consult Facial Treatments by Appointment Only! Please call to book an appointment for your skin care Treatment in Kelowna . Call us 1-778-717-3096 Email info@facialskelowna.com Visit Us 720 MCCLURE RD KELOWNA, British Columbia V1W 1M3 Follow Us Facebook-f X-twitter Instagram ### Skin Care Products  Minna Uses only the best professional skin care products on the market such as Repechage and Serene skin care lines for all different skin types and skin problems. Repechage and Serene products are made from all natural ingredients and are hypo-allergenic for all skin types including sensitive skin.These professional skin care  products are available  for your own personal skin care regiments thru your local Kelowna Esthetican Minna.Ask for your free skin care consultation where you can get professional advice on what products will be of most benefit for your skin type and skin conditions. Professional Spa Grade Organic Skin Care Products   ### Blog Skin Care Blog  Explore the latest skin care tips, treatments, and wellness advice on the Facials by Minna blog. Stay informed with expert insights to help you achieve radiant, healthy skin. ### Waxing Hair Removal Treatments Waxing Services Facial Waxing Upper Lip wax – $12-$15 Chin – $15 Eyebrow waxing – $20 Full Face – $35-$50 Depending on amount of hair to be removed Legs and Arm Waxing Half Leg – $35 Full Leg – $55 Forearm – $30 Full Arm – $35 Underarm Wax -$25 Waxing For Men Back Wax – $45 Chest Wax – $40-60 Depending on amount of Hair to be Removed Call now to book your free consultation! Remember There is never a bad time to be pampered. Waxing over other Hair Removal Techniques As women, a lot of us feel the need to maintain smooth and hairless skin. Be it for personal hygiene or for professionalism, women tend to maintain a routine hair removal cycle. However, the best hair removal technique is waxing. Wondering where to find a waxing service that is hygienic, effective and simply amazing? Head right to Facials by Minna. Here’s why you should come to us without considering other hair removal methods: The Downside of other Hair Removal techniques: Shaving with a razor is time consuming and if done in a hurry, it may result in shaving bumps and cuts. Over a period of time, shaving aggravates hair growth. Epilators and Electric trimmers are safer than razors but do not offer a clean and smooth skin. Hair Removal Creams: A lot of these creams cause allergies amongst individuals. Regular usage is known to cause the skin to get darker. Waxing Hair Removal is the key: The myth about waxing is that people presume that it’s a lot of pain to deal with. When done right and by a professional, waxing is definitely not painful. Waxing also deals with ingrown hairs. Unlike shaving, waxing does not leave you with a coarse growth of hair. Regular waxing has shown a significant decrease in overall hair growth.At Facials by Minna only the best of trained professionals handle all services. The various waxing services offered at a reasonable price, making us your best choice. Towards the end of a session at our salon, you will feel no irritation or sensitive skin but you’re just left with smooth and hairless skin.Hair removal For both men and women. In the past, our waxing technique has proven to be very effective leaving us with a growing clientele. While there is a finite method for waxing, we take extra care in making sure we don’t leave any area untouched. At the same time we also focus on giving a painless experience possible.Hydration after hair removal is very important. Likewise, when you head out in the sun right after a waxing session, make it a point to slather on some sunscreen or a good sun block. Even if your skin isn’t sensitive after a waxing session, it is always a good idea to protect yourself from the harsh rays of the skin. Waxing once a month is more than enough. Our Hair removal techniques remove hair from the root thus making your growth a lot slower. Visit us or call us for a waxing session today. ### Chemical Peel Treatments Chemical Peels / Glycolic Peel Treatments Chemical Peel- 30min – $70- 1 Treatment $150 - 3 Treatments Includes Pre and Post peel treatment kits Reveal younger and healthier looking skin with no down time Facial properties Cleansing Deep cleanses skin as it monitors excess oils & replenishes skin moisture. Using an alpha hydroxy acid known as Glycolic acid derived from Sugar cane. Tone Our Toning Complex acts as both an astringent & calming process that tones while restoring pH balance. Benefits Of Chemical Peels Reduces Pore size Blows out blemishes Reduces Wrinkles Evens out Skin tone https://youtu.be/9QPMYvGK5Qo Why Chemical Peels are the Best Topical application of day to day cosmetics may camouflage effects of aging and skin care woes such as blemishes, uneven skin tone etc. But with the help of a chemical peel, you can work on the innermost layer of your skin. This is indeed the best way to treat your skin and get an instant fix. Does it have side effects? Chemical peels may sound like a serious business loaded with dozens of chemicals. But the idea is to use soothing elements that will treat the inner layer of your skin while eliminating dead skin cells. Chemical peels rarely have any side effects unless they are not done in a hygienic manner or by skilled professionals. How often should I do it? You can opt for Chemical peels as often as you would for a facial. At Facials by Minna, we offer Chemical Peel packages for up to a period of 6 months for a discounted price. The advantage of regular chemical peels is that, you are constantly reviving your skin and maintaining good care of it from within. What to Expect from a Chemical Peel / Glycolic Peel Treatment At Facials by Minna, we have trained and highly skilled professionals handling each session. When you walk out, you will see and feel the change of your skin for a long time. The same goes with Chemical peels. We start our sessions with a cleansing and toning ritual followed by the actual session picked for you. Our cleansers use Glycolic acid obtained from Sugar cane, to maintain skin’s natural oil and moisture levels. The cleansing is followed by an alcohol free toner which gently restores your skin’s pH balance. The actual process takes about 30 minutes after which a hydrating moisturizer is applied onto your skin to protect your skin. Chemical peels help in reducing wrinkles and pore s. Along with that, it also reduces blemishes, fading them out and establishes even skin tone. You must always remember to follow a good skin care ritual, especially right after a chemical peel. This is because once all your dead skin cells are eliminated, what remains is fresh skin which when taken care of will keep you glowing. It is advisable to stay away from direct sunlight for a minimum of 48 hours after a chemical peel. This is because your skin will be super sensitive and the sun’s rays can be harsh and may cause some irritation. Apply a generous amount of moisturizer and a sunscreen with good SPF even if you are staying indoors. ### Four Layer Facial Treatment The Repêchage Four-Layer Facial – 90min – $165 The Repêchage Four-Layer Facial is our Premier anti-aging treatment which Cosmopolitan UK called “…the best facial of the Century…” Experience layer upon layer of pure, fresh European seaweed to rejuvenate, tone and help firm the skin dramatically. 01 Layer Seaweed filtrate is a concentrate of freshly-harvested seaweed. It softens lines, adds moisture and helps rebalance and tone skin tissues. 02 Layer A three-movement facial massage is given with a creamy hydrating formula. Lasting benefits include improved circulation and skin elasticity. 03 Layer The fresh seaweed mask is the cooling and soothing treatment that hydrates while improving skin tone and clarity. 04 Layer The mineral mask is the grand finale. It creates its own gentle warmth to activate the properties of the seaweed mask beneath it. The results are impressive: younger-looking skin with visibly renewed moisture and an afterglow that lasts. Just touch your skin, and feel the difference. https://youtu.be/u5uEzyM1WTg Four Layer Facial – The real Game Changer Our Repechage four layer facial is our major breakthrough premier anti-aging treatment that will provide you with amazing results even before you walk out of Facials by Minna. Composed of European Seaweed that will relax your facial tissues and rejuvenate your cells the 4 layer formula ensures no areas of the aging map are left untouched. At Facials by Minna, this 4 layer facial penetrates through various layers of your skin to fight aging. Who can have a 4 – layer facial? Anyone with the concern of aging or premature aging can go for our 4 layer facial to fight the signs of aging and reverse them to a good extent. Since the formula is obtained from seaweed and not chemicals, it is not harsh on the skin. How effective is it? The seaweed filtrate in the facial softens lines and wrinkles. Our gentle and soothing application technique ensures that the ingredients are well absorbed by your skin. After the facial you will notice an instant youthful glow in your skin. Working at a cellular level, the 4- layer facial by Facials by Minna can be your prime anti-aging routine. After the end of the facial, we can also provide tips to make the facial effect last longer for your skin. How does the facial treatment work? Before any facial, a gentle cleansing process is carried out to ensure that your skin is dirt free. A dirt free skin easily absorbs any facial. Our alcohol free toner also helps in maintaining a good pH balance. The first layer of the facial contains concentrates of freshly harvested seaweed from Europe. The elements of this concentrate are rich in minerals that will focus on nullifying fine lines and wrinkles as well as providing good moisture balance. The second layer is a three movement facial massage performed after applying a creamy hydrating formula. Because of our expert massage and the formula, the blood circulation beneath the skin is enhanced, which contributes to skin’s elasticity. The seaweed mask is the third layer which soothes your skin and improves your skin tone and clarity. Your skin is brighter and more even with less dark spots or blemishes during our 4- layer facial. The best part is the Mineral mask which is solely to activate the benefits of seaweed mask that was applied earlier. This way, the effects are visible from the end of the 90 minute facial for many weeks later. Head to Facials by Minna to battle aging with our 4 layer facial. ### European Facial Treatment The European Facial Skin Treatment Basic Miracle Facial / European Facial – 60min – $70 Special 2 Basic Facials for $120* *(valid for 1 person only, Not to be shared) A facial is a process of cleaning, exfoliating and nourishing the skin, thereby leaving it clean and well hydrated. Facial is the second best option after massage in spa treatments.  European facial is the primary skin care regime. It is also called deep cleansing facial or deep pore cleansing facial. This facial is suited for all skin types. This skin care treatments is designed for every skin type. This Facial starts of with cleaning the skin, and examined. Face steamed for 10 minutes to open pores for deep cleaned by extracting whiteheads and blackheads.Many people who want to rejuvenate their skin to feel and look younger opt for a European facial. This kind of facial is popular throughout the countries of Europe, but its methods are now also becoming popular in Canada at many high-end spas. Maybe you have heard of a European facial before, but you weren’t quite sure what it entailed or if it was the right choice for your skin type. The truth is that these facials can be beneficial for almost any skin type, as the procedure involves different cleansing techniques that can help get rid of acne and treat oily skin. If you are considering having a European facial, it’s important to understand the steps involved so you know what to expect when you arrive at the spa. 01 A Deep-Down Cleansing When you sit down for your European facial, you will most likely be in a reclined position, and your hair will be secured with a cap to prevent any chemicals from damaging the hair. Once you are made comfortable, the skin care specialist will cleanse your skin with an exfoliating scrub to slough off dead skin cells and expose healthy skin beneath. This part of the European facial treatment will also remove excess oil, dead skin, and even old makeup that may be clogging your pores. The exfoliating step of the European facial technique will also encourage the skin to renew itself by creating new skin cells to repair the micro damage caused by the scrub. Once the exfoliating scrub is complete, the skin care specialist will steam your pores open to ensure that all the dirt and other debris has been swept away and that skin treatment ingredients can be absorbed to the fullest. Finally, this step of a European facial is completed by placing warm towels over the face to enhance the steaming process and the expansion of pores for 10-15 Min. 02 Extractions If you suffer from any type of acne, the next step the skin care specialist will take in your European facial will be to remove all blackheads and whiteheads from your skin by way of extractions of the problem areas. 03 Massage and Face Mask At this point during your European facial, your esthetician will apply a facial mask that is customized to match you specific skin type. Once the mask is applied evenly, it will be left in place for about fifteen minutes, during which time the European facial professional will give you a brief massage that will focus on the hands, neck. This step is meant to relax your mind and bring the therapeutic effects of the facial treatment together with the calming effects of the massage for a more unified rejuvenation experience. Once the mask is removed, the skin care specialist will conclude the European facial with a moisturizer and toner to prevent the skin from drying out, as a deep cleansing may often cause dryness. Minna only uses the finest quality, all natural skin care products on the market from Serene and Repechage. You should expect for a European facial to take about an hour for the full treatment, but the time spent at the spa will vary. Don’t forget to take advantage of some of the options that may come with your European spa experience, such as a skin analysis so that the skin care specialist can use the products that will best match your skin type. Remember, you don’t have to leave the country to experience a European facial, but it’s important that the procedure is performed properly, by an experienced licensed Esthetician, in order to prevent any adverse reactions. https://youtu.be/ZZs7kTAj7Wc Book your Deep Cleansing European Facial Treatment with Minna Today 250-764-8761 Price: $70 for 1- 60Min Treatment or $120 for 2 Treatment Voucher* *(valid for 1 person only, Not to be shared) ### Skin Care Treatments Our Skin Care Treatment Services in Kelowna SKin Treatments we are offering Skin care is becoming a wide industry because of the numerous concerns that have arose about good skin health. Women from all over the world struggle to find a good skin care regimen to obtain and maintain flawless and beautiful skin inside out. The main concerns for women include acne, blemishes, uneven skin tone, wrinkles and fine lines. The signs of aging sometimes start out very early in some individuals because of their lifestyle and genes. If you establish a good skin care regimen with monthly facials, you can easily battle pre mature aging.At Facials by Minna, there are different skin care treatments available to combat a variety of problems. Here’s what they are: European Facial Treatment Try our Classic European Facial – This deep cleansing facial helps to hydrate and purify skin and cleanses your pores by removing impurities from deep with pores. Learn More Glycolic Peel Treatment Try our Glycolic Peel Treatment – Removes dead skin cells to make your skin natural-looking, smooth, and bright. Can be used to treat acne scarring, skin aging, and skin sun-damage. Learn More Eye Lift Treatment Try our Opti-firm Eye Contour Treatment – Clinically proven to reduce dark circles, puffiness and wrinkles. Experience this treatment a la carte or as an add-on to your facial. Learn More Four Layer Facial Our Premier anti-aging treatment which Cosmopolitan UK called “…the best facial of the Century…” Experience layer upon layer of pure, fresh European seaweed to rejuvenate, tone and help firm the skin dramatically. Learn More Acne Treatments This Treatment designed for problematic skin and acne. Deep pore cleanses, purifies and controls existing breakouts while helping to prevent new ones from forming. Learn More Chemical Peel Treatments Topical application of day to day cosmetics may camouflage effects of aging and skin care woes such as blemishes, uneven skin tone etc. Learn More Waxing Hair Removal Treatments As women, a lot of us feel the need to maintain smooth and hairless skin. Be it for personal hygiene or for professionalism, women tend to maintain a routine hair removal cycle. Learn More Basic Miracle Facial/ European Facial: The best part about Facials by Minna is that each facial is combined with a generic cleansing, toning and moisturizing routine with high quality products that are obtained from natural sources. The products used are low in chemicals but because of their potency and gentle nature, they provide a good glow to your skin. The basic miracle facial includes deep exfoliation and facial masks that enhance skin brightening, toning and improve anti-inflammatory properties of the skin. European Facial with Extractions – 60min – $70 Special 2 Basic Facials for $120* *(valid for 1 person only, Not to be shared) This signature professional spa facial treatment helps brighten and diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles while enriching the skin with its added anti-aging benefits. Clinical studies have shown that its marine and botanical actives work together to uncover a radiant, more luminous complexion. ### Acne Treatments Acne Treatments for Skin For Problem / Acne Skin Hydra Medic Acne Facial – 60min – $120 This Treatment designed for problematic skin and acne. Deep pore cleanses, purifies and controls existing breakouts while helping to prevent new ones from forming. Reduces oil from overly active sebaceous glands, while maintaining skin moisture balance. This pure and refining treatment allows cleansing deep down while soothing and healing lesions, leaving skin with renewed freshness and purity. Facial properties Cleansing Our deep cleanser is formulated to cleanse as it monitors excess oils and replenishes skin moisture. Gentle St. Johns wort formula is great for sensitive skin. Green and white teas provide anti-oxidant protection. Tone The toning complex acts as both an astringent and calming process that tones and soothes while restoring pH balance. Exfoliate This intensive skin treatment focuses on resurfacing and renewing skin with less irritation than standard glycolic peels. It uses Pure honey, oatmeal and almond meal to help purify and deep cleanse the skin. This phase leaves the skin super clean and smooth. Steam and Extractions Depending on skin type removes blackheads from plugged pores allowing the skin to become tighter and look cleaner Tone Our alcohol free toner refines and clarifies skin, leaving it noticeably smoother and brighter. Massage 10 minute massage with our breakthrough aqua massage cream which is clinically proven to rapidly help brighten and even the skin tone. Mask Ulva Lactuca Extract draws out oils as it balances skin moisture and provides further skin brightening as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Helps prevent skin aging and encourages cell renewal. Tone Our alcohol free toner refines and clarifies skin, leaving the skin refreshed and calm. Moisturizing This daily moisturizer hydrates and protects skin from the environment with a super protective Zinc Oxide mineral protection cream that is both light and hydrating. https://youtu.be/lrF0_yT_r90 Acne Treatments at Facials by Minna Acne is one of the most growing concerns for many individuals. Acne outbreaks can be caused by a number of reasons. Pollution, oily skin, improper skin care and poor hygiene can cause and aggravate acne problem. Studies have shown that facial acne is linked to various self-confidence issues too. Taking good care of your skin with the help of appropriate facials can do wonders. At Facials by Minna, the root cause of any acne skin care issue is tackled with, thus eliminating skin problems on the whole. The problem with acne is that once the outbreaks reduce, they leave scars behind. These acne scars can cause the skin to look dull and blemished with uneven skin tone.  The products used in Facials by Minna are of top quality but gentle on the skin. Along with their gentle nature, their effectiveness is what contributes to so many happy clients. Opt for the basic miracle facial if you want an overall treatment for your skin. The facial takes up to 60 minutes of time but in that period, the products used penetrate deep into your skin, improving circulation and giving an instant glow. Each facial follows a protocol that also includes cleansing, toning and moisturizing. The toning process is followed by an exfoliation using pure honey, oatmeal and almond meal which focus on deeply clearing out clogged pores. Pure honey in the exfoliation acts as a particle to treat skin inflammation and acne. Honey has been linked to antiseptic properties, which makes it a safe and effective combat against acne. Once the exfoliation is done, your skin will feel soft and smooth. To get rid of blackheads and purify the pores of your skin, a steaming and extraction session is followed. After that, our breakthrough aqua massage cream with its skin brightening elements will be massaged on to the skin for noticeably glowing skin. The important part of the facial is the Ulva lactuva extract mask which has anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties. Its anti-oxidant nature gives a refreshed look to your skin. The mask is created with a fine blend of minerals and vitamins that are essential to your skin. Once the mask is removed, the facial ends with a quick tone and hydration step. Our moisturizer is equipped in protecting you from the environment with its Zinc Oxide which also seals in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and supple. A regular visit to Facials by Minna can treat your acne problem while giving you an overall healthy and youthful looking skin. ### Privacy Policy Who we are Our website address is: https://facialskelowna.com What personal data we collect and why we collect it Comments When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. An anonymized string created from your email address (also called a hash) may be provided to the Gravatar service to see if you are using it. The Gravatar service privacy policy is available here: https://automattic.com/privacy/. After approval of your comment, your profile picture is visible to the public in the context of your comment. Media If you upload images to the website, you should avoid uploading images with embedded location data (EXIF GPS) included. 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Your contact information Additional information How we protect your data What data breach procedures we have in place What third parties we receive data from What automated decision making and/or profiling we do with user data Industry regulatory disclosure requirements ### My Account ### Checkout ### Cart ### Shop ### Homepage Acne and Skin Care Treatments in Kelowna To Bring Back That Youthful Glow Book Free Consultation 778-717-3096 Schedule A Free Skin Consultation About our Skin Care Treatments in Kelowna BE PAMPERED AND REJUVENATED Let us give you a relaxing and enjoyable facial experience to allow you to escape the busyness of your day. At the same time help you to give you more youthful and vibrant looking skin that will take years off of the way you look. We believe that when you feel good about yourself your outlook on life will improve also. Call us today for the best facial in Kelowna by Skin Specialist Minna Gruenke. Book Now Learn More Natural Products We feature only the top natural skin care products from Serene and Repechage that can help even problem skin. Certified Specialist With Over 15yrs experience as a skin care specialist in Kelowna. Minna was trained in the art of skin care and facials at the Esthetics Institute in Calgary Alberta. Varied Treatments Available We know that everyone is Unique and so is your skin. We offer Various different skin care treatments to best restore your skin to its full beauty. Our Skin Care Spa Services Skin Treatments we are offering When it comes to caring for our skin many people negate skin care to a secondary aspect of life, Yet our skin is our bodies largest organ and not only can the look of our skin make you look old and tired but your whole body health depends on the health of our skin. Now is the time to start looking and feeling better by properly caring for your skin. We can help you to do this. Call us to book an appointment for a free skin care consultation. 778.717.3096 European Facial Treatment Try our Classic European Facial – This deep cleansing facial helps to hydrate and purify skin and cleanses your pores by removing impurities from deep with pores. Learn More Glycolic Peel Treatment Try our Glycolic Peel Treatment – Removes dead skin cells to make your skin natural-looking, smooth, and bright. Can be used to treat acne scarring, skin aging, and skin sun-damage. Learn More Eye Treatment Try our Opti-firm Eye Contour Treatment – Clinically proven to reduce dark circles, puffiness and wrinkles. Experience this treatment a la carte or as an add-on to your facial. Learn More Four Layer Facial Our Premier anti-aging treatment which Cosmopolitan UK called “…the best facial of the Century…” Experience layer upon layer of pure, fresh European seaweed to rejuvenate, tone and help firm the skin dramatically. Learn More View All Services Organic Skin Care Products Professional-Grade Skincare for Radiant, Healthy Skin – Because You Deserve the Best!  At Facials by Minna, we offer professional-grade skincare products that deliver superior results compared to those found at cosmetic counters. Our carefully curated selection includes high-performance formulas enriched with natural seaweed extracts, antioxidants, and clinically proven ingredients designed to deeply nourish, hydrate, and restore skin health. Unlike mass-market products, our skincare lines are developed with advanced technology and higher concentrations of active ingredients, ensuring long-lasting benefits for all skin types. Whether you're looking for acne solutions, anti-aging treatments, or hydration boosters, our products are dermatologist-tested and tailored to provide visible, long-term improvements, making them a step above traditional over-the-counter skincare options. Hydra Dew for Normal to Dry skin Serene Products for All Type Hydra Medic for Problem/Acne skin T-zone Balance for Combination Skin Video Tour https://youtu.be/UNmNipY4k98 Reviews What Our Skin Care Clients Say Clients rave about the personalized, rejuvenating experience at Facials by Minna in Kelowna BC. Whether targeting acne or providing a relaxing retreat, they appreciate our customized treatments and attention to detail. Many leave with glowing skin and a sense of true satisfaction, making us their go-to destination for skincare. Your beauty and well-being are our priority! Best facial ever! Minna is such a hidden gem in Kelowna. My skin is always SO much better when I see her regularly. I love that her facials always include extractions, something that’s often missed when I’ve gone to “spa” like places. Her pricing is incredibly reasonable too. 10/10 recommend! Tanya - Kelowna, BC. I visited Minna at Facials by Minna in July and again in Sept of 2014. The first time I had a standard European Facial. It was amazing how good my skin felt after and how clear my skin looked. Minna made me feel so relaxed I think I fell asleep. I would highly recommend a facial from Facials by Minna in Kelowna. You will definately get your money’s worth. Sherry Emilson - Kelowna, BC. A truly amazing experience!!! 5 Stars are not enough!! Minna is amazing and every part of the treatment (products, technique and venue) was fantastic!! B.A. - Kelowna, BC. News & Articles Our Latest Skin Care Blogs NEW CLIENT? RECEIVE FREE CONSULTATION ### About Us Minna Gruenke Minna hails from Finland in Scandinavia where people are known for immaculate complexions and perfect skin. Minna was trained in the art of skin care and facials at the Esthetics Institute in Calgary Alberta. As a skin care specialist She brings to Facials by Minna a zest to give everyone an experience that will exceed there spa treatment expectations giving you the guaranteed best facial in Kelowna. Facials by Minna is based on the belief that our customers’ needs are of the utmost importance. She is committed to meeting those needs with her facials and other skin care treatments. As a result, a high percentage of our business is from repeat customers and referrals in the Kelowna area. We would welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver you the best facial services in the industry. Reviews What Our Customers Say Clients rave about the personalized, rejuvenating experience at Facials by Minna. Whether targeting acne or providing a relaxing retreat, they appreciate our customized treatments and attention to detail. Many leave with glowing skin and a sense of true satisfaction, making us their go-to destination for skincare. Your beauty and well-being are our priority! Best facial ever! Minna is such a hidden gem in Kelowna. My skin is always SO much better when I see her regularly. I love that her facials always include extractions, something that’s often missed when I’ve gone to “spa” like places. Her pricing is incredibly reasonable too. 10/10 recommend! Tanya - Kelowna, BC. I visited Minna at Facials by Minna in July and again in Sept of 2014. The first time I had a standard European Facial. It was amazing how good my skin felt after and how clear my skin looked. Minna made me feel so relaxed I think I fell asleep. I would highly recommend a facial from Facials by Minna in Kelowna. You will definately get your money’s worth. Sherry Emilson - Kelowna, BC. Minna knows her stuff! I had a fabulous 4 layer facial that was so relaxing and it rejuvenated my skin Carol Williams-Freeman - Kelowna, BC. ## My Templates ### single post Recent Posts Categories ABOUT Dr. Jennifer Knox Dr. Knox is a licensed physician in New York and New Jersey. She was certified by the American Board of Aesthetic Medicine with advanced training in neurotoxin and dermal filler injections, laser and light therapy techniques, chemical peels, and various other aesthetic procedures. Born and raised in Virginia, she graduated from the University of Virginia with a double major in Biology & Psychology. Share Review & Feedback Related Post ### Single blog Recent Posts Share Related Post ### Single Product Related products ### banner ### Footer Minna hails from Finland in Scandinavia where people are known for immaculate complexions and perfect skin. Minna was trained in the art of skin care and facials at the Esthetics Institute in Calgary Alberta. Minna has over 15yrs of experience in treating acne and problem skin and is an expert in skin rejuvenation. Visit Us Address: 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC. V1W 1M3 Phone: 1-778-717-3096 Email: info@facialskelowna.com Hours: Everyday 9:00-5:00pm by appointment Only Quick Links ©Copyright Facials Kelowna. All Rights Reserved 2025 ### Header Book Appointment 778-717-3096 info@facialskelowna.com 720 McClure Rd. Kelowna, BC Facebook-f X-twitter Yelp Instagram ### Default Kit ## Products ### Hydra Dew for Normal to Dry skin Repechage Hydra Dew for Normal to Dry Skin   Repechage Hydra Dew is a luxurious skincare line specifically formulated for normal to dry skin, designed to deeply hydrate and nourish while restoring balance and moisture. Packed with a blend of seaweed extracts, essential oils, and plant-based ingredients, Hydra Dew helps replenish the skin’s natural moisture barrier, leaving it soft, smooth, and deeply hydrated. This rich yet lightweight formula works to soothe dry, dehydrated skin, providing long-lasting moisture without feeling greasy. Ideal for those with dry or compromised skin, Hydra Dew helps restore elasticity and promotes a healthy, radiant complexion. Perfect for daily use, it’s the ideal solution to keep your skin nourished and revitalized, no matter the season. ### Serene Products for All Type Serene Hydra Dew for Normal to Dry Skin   Serene Hydra Dew is a refreshing, deeply hydrating moisturizer designed to nourish and revitalize normal to dry skin. Infused with a unique blend of botanical extracts, this luxurious formula provides long-lasting moisture, improving skin texture and promoting a soft, supple feel. Hydra Dew helps restore the skin’s natural hydration balance, reducing the appearance of dry patches and flakiness, while enhancing skin elasticity for a smoother, more radiant complexion. Ideal for daily use, it absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making it perfect for both morning and night. Whether your skin is battling dryness due to environmental factors or natural skin type, Serene Hydra Dew delivers the essential moisture your skin craves for a healthy, glowing appearance. ### Hydra Medic for Problem/Acne skin Repechage Hydra Medic for Problem/Acne Skin   Repechage Hydra Medic is a powerful, professional-grade skincare line specifically designed to treat and manage acne-prone and problem skin. This system combines potent ingredients like seaweed, salicylic acid, and natural botanicals to deep clean, soothe inflammation, and control excess oil production, helping to prevent future breakouts. The Hydra Medic line works to balance and purify the skin, while also providing gentle hydration to avoid dryness or irritation. Perfect for those struggling with acne or problematic skin, this treatment helps improve skin texture, reduce redness, and promote a clearer, healthier complexion. Whether used as part of a regular skincare routine or in professional treatments, Hydra Medic delivers noticeable results and leaves skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. ### T-zone Balance for Combination Skin Repechage T-Zone Balance for Combination Skin   Repechage T-Zone Balance is a specially formulated skincare solution designed to address the unique needs of combination skin. This lightweight, oil-free treatment targets the oily T-zone while providing balanced hydration to the drier areas of the face. Infused with seaweed extracts, antioxidants, and natural botanicals, it helps to control excess oil, reduce shine, and minimize the appearance of pores, all while keeping the skin hydrated and refreshed. The T-Zone Balance formula works to restore the skin’s natural balance, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and perfectly balanced. Ideal for daily use, this product is a must-have for anyone with combination skin looking for a solution to maintain a clear, matte complexion without sacrificing moisture. ### Opti-Firm for Mature/Sun Damaged Skin Repechage Opti-Firm for Mature/Sun Damaged Skin   Repechage Opti-Firm is a rejuvenating treatment designed to address the specific needs of mature and sun-damaged skin. This advanced formula combines powerful ingredients like seaweed extracts, peptides, and antioxidants to help firm, tighten, and restore the skin’s elasticity. Opti-Firm works to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, while promoting a more youthful, even complexion. The nourishing blend deeply hydrates the skin, helping to repair and protect it from further damage caused by environmental stressors. Ideal for those with aging or sun-damaged skin, Repechage Opti-Firm restores a smoother, more radiant appearance, providing visible results with continued use. It’s the perfect solution to combat signs of aging and sun damage, leaving your skin looking revitalized and glowing.