January 18, 2013
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU BEAUTY EVENTS

Caitlin Murphy
  01.18.2013   |   CAITLIN MURPHY    |   LEAVE A COMMENT
    

THE HOTSPOTS

The holiday shopping season may be over, but that means it’s the ideal time to enjoy some January shopping deals.  Head to Nordstrom’s flagship downtown Seattle store or visit the swanky University Village shops for fabulous beauty events and deals this month. After all, looking your best is the perfect way to usher in the New Year!

THE SCHEDULE

Downtown Seattle Nordstrom: January 18-19

Bobbi Brown Master Class with Beauty Team Artist Dillion Pena. Bobbi Brown is famous for her naturally beautiful makeup. If you’ve had a chance to see Katie Holmes’s gorgeous new campaign. you’ll want to stop by this event for expert recommendations, tips and tricks from Pena and the Bobbi Brown team. 

Chantecaille’s Healing Facial Event features luxurious Jasmine and Lily Healing Emulsion facials. Plus, you will receive a four piece gift with any $125 dollar purchase. 

The Dior Skincare Team is ready to help you find your perfect skincare regime with the Skincare Studio Event. 

The Blissful Beauty Event is a great way to learn about everything from eye serums to BB creams. Simply stop by any beauty counter and receive a complimentary skincare consultation along with free samples. 

Book an appointment for the Kate Somerville DermalQuench Liquid Lift at the Advance Skincare counter. Kate is the skincare expert to the stars and this is one of her most popular treatments.

University Village

Calidora Skin Clinic is offering January specials through the 31st. If you buy five facials you can get one free and if you buys three Laser & Light Therapy treatments you receive two free. 

Tuesday January 15- Friday, January 28 L’Occitane en Provence is hosting skincare events featuring mini-facials, honey hand massages and treats from Provence.  The treatments are free of charge so be sure to book you appointment soon!

Every Tuesday at Swink Style Bar you can get a blowout or drystyle for only $25!

GUEST LIST

Updating your beauty regime is essential ,so these events are a must for anyone. You’ll be sure to run into ladies of all ages (and maybe a few men too!) who love to pamper themselves.

EXTRA DETAILS

To book your appointment call Nordstrom or University Village or visit their websites.

Nordstrom Downtown Seattle

500 Pine Street

Seattle, WA 98101

206.628.2111

University Village

2623 Northeast University Village Street

Seattle, WA 98015

(260) 523-0622

Tags: , , , , , , , , 

4:40pm  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZTeV8wc3veWM
Filed under: Bobbi Brown Calidora Facial Nordstrom Seattle Seattle Event Skincare Swink University Village Heaven Salon 
November 28, 2012
ELIZABETH ARDEN RED DOOR SPA

Caitlin Murphy
  11.28.2012   |   CAITLIN MURPHY    |   LEAVE A COMMENT
    

The Iconic Spa Introduces New Marine Based and Aromatherapeautic Treatments To Their Already Luxurious Menu

ABOUT

Stroll through one of Seattle’s most exclusive spots, The  Shops at The Bravern, and you can’t miss that iconic red door. The one that transports you away from your to do list, and into a land of luxury filled with a full menu of exquisite massages, signature facials, body treatments, hair, makeup, manicures and everything ladies need to look and feel their best.

I’m talking about the iconic Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salon, which has been a leader in the spa business for over 100 years.  Beauty pioneer Elizabeth Arden believed beauty should be “an intelligent union of nature and science to develop one’s finest natural assets”, which is why you should definitely pay a visit to this luxurious, elegant spa.

AMBIENCE

Red Door  Spa is aptly named, since a huge red door is the gateway to serenity among Bellevue’s bustling downtown high rises. The vibe is sophisticated, contemporary and elegant, ceilings are tall and the reception area is bright, sleek and well lit.  In the front of Red Door Spa you’ll find a the makeup area, a separate area with several hair stations and just a turn down a hallway , the manicure and pedicure areas.  The floors are tiled  and the color palette is neutral with with pops of red and wood accents.  Past the pedicure chairs you open a door to the relaxation room and you’ve entered the spa. I love that Red Door Spa separates the spa from the salon because it keeps the treatment rooms calm, quite and serene without even murmur of the blowdryers…only calming serene music. 

The spa area and relaxation room keep the contemporary and sophisticated aesthetic but the colors are deeper earth tones, the surfaces are softer, and light is dimmer. Soft candlelight flickers in each of the private treatments rooms. 

EXPERIENCE

I booked the Seawater Pearl Hydrating Facial which incorporates algae caviar and seawater pearls  for the ultimate in  hydrations and one of the new marine based treatments Red Door unveiled for fall/winter. Since the dry indoor air and harsh winter weather were making my skin look a little lackluster, I  figured this  was the perfect treatment…and boy way I right! The Seawater Pearl Facial is the most hydrating facial I have ever experienced, and it left my skin looking radiant and about 10 years younger.

I changed into my robe and enjoyed a cup of Green Tea in the relaxation room, then my delightful and lovely esthetician lead my back to the treatment room. The bed and blankets were warmed and my esthetician placed a heating pad on my abdomen…perfect given the chilly winter weather outside.

The Seawater Pearl Hydrating Facial is ideal for sensitive skin like mine since there are no harsh extraction or chemical peals. We started with a gentle exfoliation prepared with seawater and marine calcium . The combination sloughed off the dead skin and immediately made my skin feel more vibrant. We moved onto hydration where lotions with combinations of algae and seawater pearls were massaged into my skin with special attention payed to my jawline and décolletage. A mist of steam, then my favorite part…two seawater peral sachet pressed over my skin activating essential trance minerals and intensely hydrating my skin. There were a few more relaxing and hydrating maskas and, the facial massage, neck massage, arm and hand massages where fabulous. Oh , and each of the Red Door facials comes with a complementary makeup touch up so I could go out afterward and finish my day!

This is a luxurious treatment perfect for the winter months and left my skin baby soft and absolutely glowing! 

IN CROWD

The Bravern shops include Hermes and Neiman Marcus so you’ll find plenty of well heeled ladies getting pampered.  Plus the Bravern is  located below one of Microsoft’s office buildings so you’ll see career minded ladies booking appointments. 

WALLET WATCH

Facials start at $80 and go up to $230 and the spa offers a full range of menu items. View full price list. 

NEED TO KNOW

reddoorspas.com

Red Door Spa

The Shops at The Bravern

700 110th Avenue NE

Bellevue, WA 98004

(425) 455-3700

11:32am  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZTeV8wYE31di
Filed under: elizabeth arden red door spa facial seattle seattle salon spa 
October 11, 2012
EMBELLISH NAILS & BOUTIQUE

A NAIL SALON FOR YOU, YOUR MOM, AND YOUR DAUGHTER
Joanna Wilkinson  10.11.2012   |   JOANNA WILKINSON    |   LEAVE A COMMENT
    

ABOUT:  The two women behind Embellish Salon say they “love pink and bleed orange.”  When you step into the pink-walled salon owned by 2 University of Texas grads, it quickly becomes clear that these ladies not only love the color pink, but love everything girly.  From the manicure bar to the selection of jewelry and shoes, Embellish is not only a place to get a mani and pedi, but it’s a place for women of all ages to shop, gab, and get pampered.  

AMBIENCE:  The pink walls and sparkly chandelier centered in the middle of the salon make Embellish the perfect place for a girl’s girl.  The manicure bar is set up like a real bar, but one that if serving alcohol I imagine would only serve pink champagne.  The pedicure stations are not far away and include several large comfortable reclining chairs for you to relax in and not feel guilty about being self-indulgent.  Up front next to the check out counter is the boutique section where you can get lost looking at all kinds of sparkly things, including shoes.

EXPERIENCE:  When I walked into Embellish I was immediately welcomed by one of the staff members and was offered some refreshing cucumber water (the cucumber helps to make you feel just a little more fancy.)  For a salon with prices starting at just $20 for a manicure, the customer service was quite impressive.  I first made my way into the back for my mini-facial.  Did I mention they also do all kinds of facial treatments and waxing at this nail salon?  What I was expecting with my mini-facial was pleasantly and surprisingly something a lot less extensive than what I got.  I walked out of my facial feeling completely relaxed as if I had just had a full body massage (she actually did massage my arms, hands, and neck.)

After my facial, my worn out pitiful feet excitedly made their way over to the pedicure seat where they got the star treatment with some scrubbing and some clipping.  My toes were then happily painted with a dark wine colored shade I picked out that was perfect for Fall.  Me and my toes left Embellish feeling clean, refreshed, and ready to conquer the day.

IN CROWD:  This is one salon I would not recommend to one of my “secure in his manhood” guy friends who likes to get manicures and pedicures.  Although, if they are truly secure then I guess they might be able to handle the pink walls.  But, this is really the perfect salon for a group of girls or a mother daughter trip.  It’s a girly salon for girls as young as 10 up to age 80 and everything in between.

WALLET WATCH:  This is a very affordable salon and is a great price for what you get.  If you want to feel pampered but don’t want to feel like you are splurging, Embellish is the place to go.  Manicures start at just $20.  Check out their website for the full list of services and prices: http://www.embellishnails.com/

NEED TO KNOW:

There are 2 Embellish locations in Austin.  The smaller Embellish is located in The Triangle.  The one I visited is the location in Westlake.

Embellish Salon – Westlake

3663 Bee Cave Road, Suite 3 
Austin, TX 78746
512-328-9898

Embellish Salon – The Triangle

4615 N. Lamar Blvd., Suite 300
Austin, TX 78751
512-452-PINK (7465)

11:51am  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZTeV8wV4rtMo
Filed under: facial nail salon pedicure 
September 5, 2012
GET GORGEOUS AT SEATTLE’S ONLY SPOT FOR FRENCH STYLE FACIALS

Caitlin Murphy
  09.05.2012   |   CAITLIN MURPHY    |   LEAVE A COMMENT
    

Jill Bucy Skincare Is a Hidden Gem In Queen Anne

ABOUT

Tucked away in the romantic, boutique MarQueen hotel at the bottom of swanky Queen Anne Hill, Jill Bucy Skincare has been winning rave review for years from magazine and patrons alike. It is the only spot in Seattle that provides French-style facials and each one of the therapists hold the prestigious CIDESCO certification and have up to 1850 hours of training. You know when you’re here, your skin is in the best hands possible. 

AMBIENCE

The space is intimate and elegant and perfectly reflects the French aesthetics it’s known for. It feels feminine and chic, with romantic details like chandeliers and ornate mirrors, just the right place to transform into the most beautiful version of you.

EXPERIENCE

Jill Bucy Skincare has one of only four Biologique Recherche Remodeling Face Machines in the United States.  This treatment delivers mild currents to the skin helping to thoroughly clean pores, improve texture and increase the definition of your features among a myriad of other wonderful benefits. 

The French-style facial starts with a consultation where you and your incredibly well trained aesthetician will go over the specific issues of your skin. Then a deep cleansing with plant based potions begins followed by exfoliation and very gentle extractions. The lymphatic massage of the upper body is almost legendary, while a custom made mask awakes skin that is years younger. The remodeling machine delivers a gentle current that sets back the hands of time with every pulse. If you want to talk results, this is truly on of Seattle’s best beauty treatments

 IN CROWD

Jill Bucy Skincare has been a closely guarded secret of Seattle’s most elite ladies. Queen Anne Hill houses some of the city’s most tony residents, and they trust their faces to this spa’s French-style facials. 

WALLET WATCH

The Jill Bucy Classic French Facial is $135.

NEED TO KNOW

Jill Bucy Skincare in located on the first floor of the MarQueen Hotel.

600 Queen Anne Ave North

Seattle, WA 98109

206.283.9295

www.jillbucy.com

Image credit: MarQueen Hotel

4:36pm  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZTeV8wSqk43e
Filed under: downtown seattle facial seattle Seattle Spa Skin Care 
July 24, 2012
The Spa at Four Seasons Brings Kate Somerville to DC

The Only Place in Town to Score Celeb Favorite Facials

Tanya Sharma  Posted Monday, July 23, 2012 by ,

Leave a Comment

WHERE TO FIND

Where else in the DC area can you escape – and actually feel like you’ve left town? The Spa at Four Seasons in Georgetown offers the kind of respite and relaxation typically associated with destination spas. This luxurious hideout is where you’ll find a menu full of Kate Somerville’s luxurious facial treatments.

TREND ALERT

Skin care aesthetician to the stars Kate Somerville clearly knows how to really perfect skin. She’s worked her magic on the likes of Jessica Alba, Kate Walsh and Kate Hudson, whose radiant complexions are living proof of Somerville’s touch. At her Los Angeles clinic, Somerville offers a range of signature treatments formulated for all skin types and concerns, including redness, scarring, discoloration and anti-aging. 

A trip out west specifically for a facial is but a dream for most, but enjoying one of Somerville’s custom treatments is now possible even here in DC thanks to the Spa at Four Seasons in Georgetown. The facial menu includes four of Somerville’s most effective treatments.

GET THE LOOK

Make like a red carpet diva and treat your skin to the TLC it truly deserves. Each of these facials targets a specific skin concern.

Basic Kate: This 50-minute facial is customized to your skin’s needs. Its specific purpose is to reverse the visible signs of aging and stimulate renewed, refreshed and more radiant skin. It ranges from $140 to $160.

Dermal Quench: For those whose skin requires extra moisture, this replenishing treatment is just the thing. For anywhere from 50 to 80 minutes, this hydrating facial breathes new life to parched skin via a cocktail of vitamins, oxygen and hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring ingredient that boosts the skin’s moisture content almost immediately. Prices range from $225 to $300.

DermaLucent Phototherapy: Designed to treat all types of skin concerns, including acne, dehydration, aging and more, this treatment uses a safe light therapy to heal and improve the skin’s appearance. It is customized to your skin’s specific needs and runs between 50 and 80 minutes. Prices range from $225 to $300.

Signature Treatment: For the ultimate Somerville experience, this signature facial offers everything skin needs to look and feel its best. The treatment includes a fruit enzyme- and vitamin-infused exfoliate, an indulgent facial massage, a moisturizing oxygen treatment that leaves skin plumped and smooth and DermaLucent light therapy based on your unique needs. All the while, your hands, feet and arms will be gently massaged with a therapeutic lotion. The 80-minute treatment is $350.

NEED TO KNOW

The Spa at Four Seasons
2800 Pennsylvania Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20007
202.944.2022

11:44am  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZTeV8wP-iRPO
Filed under: dermalucent phototheraphy facial Four Seasons Georgetown Jessica Alba Kate Hudson Kate Somerville kate walsh moisturizer spa 
June 22, 2012
Philosophy’s The Microdelivery Peel

Get Spa Worthy Results In the Comfort of Your Own Home

Caitlin Murphy  Posted Friday, June 22, 2012 by ,

Leave a Comment

Who doesn’t love the way their skin looks after a facial? The smooth texture, radiance, and even tone are a necessity, so when you don’t have time to make it to the spa, you have to try the next best thing.  That’s why I’m currently obsessed with this Philosophy Microdelivery Peel.

It’s a simple two step process that includes vitamin c/peptide resurfacing crystals, and a lactic/salicylic acid activating gel that basically amount to a miracle in a jar. You start with dry skin and apply the resurfacing crystals, which sort of resemble a mask; then gently massage them in a circular motion around your face ( This step is similar to using an exfoliating product on your skin). Next, apply the lactic/salicylic acid gel with your hands over your face and on top of the crystals. FYI you will feel a warming sensation similar to what you feel when you get a peel in a facial at a spa. Simply rinse your face clean after 2 or 3 minutes, and you’ll notice just how much smoother your skin is.

So let’s talk results…because they are pretty impressive. Not only does the peel exfoliate and resurface my skin, but it also takes years off, minimizing those pesky lines around my eyes and forehead and reducing my sun damage. Immediately upon using it, you’ll have incredible skin, but I really love how my skin looks the next morning. It’ so bright and  radiant, like I’ve had the best night sleep. And the true test..people actually notice a difference… even my husband has commented on how good my skin looks. 

I really appreciate that the Microdelivery Peel doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin. I’m very selective about the professional facials I book and always choose the gentlest ones, so I love that the Philosophy peel (as with all Philosophy products) is not invasive on my skin. While this doesn’t replace my regular facials (because after all, I love a good trip to the spa), I do love using the peel on a regular basis for glowing, youthful skin. With summer here and weddings, parties, and events to attend… at $68, I definitely recommend giving it a try!

You can purchase the Philosophy Microdelivery Peel at Sephora and Nordstrom.

1:01am  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZTeV8wNta5QT
Filed under: beauty facial HS Magazine peel skin skincare spa younger skin 
June 2, 2012
Nob Hill Spa – The Perfect Staycation

The Ultimate Facial with Babor

Anita Rivas  Posted Tuesday, May 29, 2012 by ,

Leave a Comment

About: The Nob Hill Spa is a San Francisco destination nestled inside of the Huntington Hotel, a place where luxurious comfort meets modern tranquility.

Ambience: The atmosphere reminded me of my vacations in Maui. The pool area overlooks a scenic view of the city, and ordering food from the restaurant makes you feel like you really are away from home - like you’re on actual vacation and not just awaiting your next spa appointment. 

Everything is calm and soothing, from the gracious staff to the guests lounging by the indoor infinity pool.

Experience: My facial was a combination Babor facial for mature and demanding skin, Natalie firstcleansed and toned my skin before applying theBaborganic Enzyme, a mild peel to help remove hypigmentation spots and bring new skin to the surface.

Once the peel was removed she applied the Babor Beauty Fluids, a cocktail blend of the Direct Beauty Fluid, Collagen Booster and the Multi Active Vitamin Fluid. And just when I thought things couldn’t get better I was treated to a delicious hand and shoulder massage. The end result was glowing, hydrated and radiant skin.

In Crowd: Locals in need of pampering and tourists seeking a home-like atmosphere while away from home.

Wallet Watch: Nob Hill Ultimate Facial $310 – the menu offers a variety of services at budget friendly prices @Menu.

 Need to Know:  Never fear, if you forget to bring along a swimsuit Nob Hill Spa has a wide selection on hand, and they offer a state-of-the-art eucalyptus steam room, whirlpool and sauna. 

Nob Hill Spa

1075 California Street

San Francisco, CA 94108

            415-345-2848      

ask for Natalie Rimbert or @NobHillSpa.com

6:15pm  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZTeV8wMdiDn2
Filed under: babor facial huffingtion hotel massage natalie rimbert nob hill spa san francisco spa 
March 19, 2012
Celebrities Flock To Christine Chin Spa

Gisele, Hilary Swank, Karolina Kukova spotted at Lower East Side spa

Grace Gold  Posted Monday, March 19, 2012 by ,

Leave a Comment

The reception area of Christine Spa Spa.

THE HOTSPOT

One of the city’s most coveted celebrity facialists, Christine Chin, opened her lower east side spa in 2002, with reception and four private treatment rooms on the upper level, and a relaxation wait area and full service nail salon located below. She’s a renowned skin expert, and everyone knows it; expect a busy bristle of clients shuffling in and out of the doors every day of the week.

THE EXPERIENCE

Chin is known for her 90 minute-plus facials, which feature targeted glycolic-based peels,microdermabrasion, and add-ons like seaweed masks and collagen eye treatments. Celebrity clients include Gisele Bundchen, Hilary Swank, Karolina Kurkova, and Rachel Wiesz, who have come to rely on Chin for the most stringent levels of complexion excellence. Nicknamed the “Queen of Mean” for her diligent and ceaseless manners of skin perfection, the facialist holds a decidedly softer tone and disposition outside of the treatment room.

GET YOUR FIX

Christine Chin Spa, 82 Orchard Street, New York, NY 10002. It’s the place to go for obsessive skin clearance and glow.             212-353-0503      .

4:35pm  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZTeV8wIFRVyD
(Notes: 1)
  
Filed under: christine chin christine chin spa facial gisele gisele bundchen glycolic peel hilary swank HS Magazine karolina kurkova microdermabrasion queen of mean rachel wiesz 
March 19, 2012
SKIN ADDIKS

Ready to Get “Addikted” to Your Skin?

Christina Marrale  Posted Monday, March 19, 2012 by ,

Leave a Comment

ABOUT

 I had the opportunity recently to scope out a Valley based skincare studio that’s gotten all sorts of buzz. With real products, thorough treatments and friendly faces, you are in for a real treat when you book an appointment atSkin Addiks. 

AMBIENCE

I walked in and was instantly drawn to the shabby, chic decor. I also found myself lusting over the fabulous light fixtures to use in my own apartment. The walls were a beautiful shade of grey, while accents of white, yellow, and cream popped throughout the quaint, two room studio. Camille greeted me with a smiling face and a warm presence. After our introductions, she invited me to get cozy on the facial bed, and got right to work on my skin.

EXPERIENCE

We decided on one of Skin Addik’s most popular treatments: the “Bespoke Facial” which is described on the website as: “An approach that goes above and beyond merely product results. These highly acclaimed techniques utilize the most innovative technologies and are delivered in a way that directly impacts the health of the skin. Facial treatments are also combined with manual lymphatic drainage, and muscle sculpting deep tissue facial work to balance and restore vitality to both complexion and spirit. As the skin constantly changes within the environment around us, it is vital that each treatment is tailor made. Bespoke facials are rarely the same twice.”

I was quite intrigued with the Micro-current, which can restore lost energy to the tissues, stimulating thefacial muscles and skin to produce more collagen and elastin, which of course are two essential proteins needed for the skin to remain young and fresh. After cleansing my skin and a light exfoliation, Camille ran the Micro-current gently along my skin, while making sure to show me the difference from one side of my face to the other. It was incredible to see a subtle raise, particularly in my brow area and cheekbones. I looked awake and very fresh, just what I needed after a long work week and hectic deadlines! Though you will see an immediate difference, just like a fine skincare regimen, Camille recommends the more often you do the treatment, the better the result.

Next up was the LED light therapy, which calmed my inflamed skin and sped up the healing process with my acne, along with a relaxing lymphatic massage. I truly noticed a difference in the “puffiness” of my face; everything looked a bit brighter and I could truly feel a difference in my energy through the day.

After a wonderful 90 minutes, we wrapped up my treatment. Camille was happy to answer all of my questions, give some fantastic product recommendations, and offer some wonderful advice about proper skincare and future treatment. I was so pleased with my experience, I now find myself anxiously awaiting my next treatment with the fantastic Camille. 

IN CROWD

The skin care studio draws clients from all around the city. If you live in Los Angeles and have not yet tried Skin Addiks out, be sure to drop by ASAP, you don’t want to miss out on this affordable, effective treatment!

WALLET WATCH

Treatments range from $75 to $250, be sure to inquire which treatment will be the best for you and your skin at the time of booking!

NEED TO KNOW

Skin Addiks is open by appointment only. Open Tuesdays. Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am-8pm and Saturdays from 9am-6pm

Address: 11950 Ventura Blvd. Suite #4 Studio City, CA 91604
Phone:             818.212.8780      

4:14pm  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZTeV8wIFN7L4
(Notes: 1)
  
Filed under: facial skin addiks skincare studio studio city 
February 13, 2012
A GUIDE TO TIPPING


Christina Marrale  Posted Thursday, February 9, 2012 by ,

Leave a Comment

 

Ever find yourself in the position where you have a service done (such as a haircut, color, mani/pedi etc) and can’t quite figure out what to leave for a tip? Today is a lesson in tipping etiquette my friends! After doing a little research, I’ve got the lowdown on what’s appropriate and what’s not…and everything in between:

Hairdresser: 15-20% of the service price. Yes…this can get expensive, but that’s the standard rate for beauty these days. Luckily for most, a visit to the salon comes every 2-3 months, so it isn’t a total bank breaker. Be sure to remember, if you have a separate person washing your hair, it’s courteous to leave a few dollars for them as well. I usually hand them a $5 bill and leave the tip for my hairdresser at the front desk.

Nails: This can vary due to what type of mani/pedi you are getting. Basic? Tip 15%. If you are getting a design, or having fake nails put on, I would hand them a few more extra dollars due to the extra work. If you have two separate people working on you, be sure to split the tip. I’ve witnessed many times one worker taking the total tip for herself. Be sure to walk it over to each separately, and give your thanks.

Wax: Again, 15-20%. Though, I tend to base this one on how much I am getting, um…removed. If it’s been a while since my last bikini wax, it’s safe to say I am going to give a few extra bucks for the extra product needed to get the job done. When your checking out, always look for an envelope to leave the money. My place does not have them, so I hand it to my girl as soon as we’ve finished the service.

Spa: 15-20%. Like hair, this can get pretty pricey depending on the amount of services ( look into getting a monthly membership, it’s cheaper than paying for all those services separately!) Getting the works done…massage, facial etc? Be sure to tip for each service. Spa’s almost always have small envelopes that you can leave your cash in at the front desk.

Makeup: If you head to the mall, Most makeup counters do not allow their artists to receive cash tips. When I worked at MAC, many times I would receive a treat from the food court (hello Cinnabon!) a gift card, or a friendly note showing gratitude that was left in the hands of my manager instead. Getting your makeup professionally done? Be sure to leave them at least 15%. Though they may be charging you apretty penny, makeup artists need to replenish their kit, cover gas/parking fee’s etc. Once it’s all said and done, they may not be banking what you think they are. A tip helps cover the costs, along with showing gratitude for the service provided.

A few more things to remember:

  • Always have cash on you. After working in this industry for a while, I will tell you…almost always cash is preferred. If however you only have your card on you, don’t sweat it, most places accept credit cards.
  • At the end of the day, the amount you tip always depends on you and your own judgement. Never skip out on the tip just because the person had an attitude, or simply because did not enjoy the service(s). If you have encountered bad customer service, just ask to speak to a manager and explain the dissatisfaction behind your experience. It is unfair to leave the person nothing. For most, tips make up a large portion of  income. You could have caught them on an “off” day or so on. If by chance you come across another poor experience at the same place, at that point consider it a major red flag and take your business elsewhere.

If you have had an excellent experience, be sure to not only tip them well, but let the manager know. Many places pride themselves on customer service, have contests for staff members or an incentive program. No manager on site? Leave a comment on Yelp.com for them to spot later. It gives you good karma, and makes for one happy employee!

4:33pm  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZTeV8wGN8G6y
Filed under: facial hair makeup nails skincare tipping guide 
February 13, 2012
Natura Bissé Pure Air Bubble Pops into Tysons Galleria This Month


An Advanced Approach to Skin Care

Tanya Sharma  Posted Monday, February 6, 2012 by ,

Leave a Comment

 

It’s the kind of event you’ll regret missing if you find out too late – which is why I’m here to spill all about the Natura Bissé Pure Air Bubble. It sounds (and even looks) a little bit bizarre, but this advanced approach to skin care is renowned for being highly effective and indulgent.

At the heart of it all is the Diamond White Facial, an intensive Natura Bissé treatment formulated to reveal clearer, glowing skin with a more luminous and even tone. That means you can finally say goodbye to those unsightly acne scars, hyperpigmentation and other visible spots via the surprisingly gentle procedure, which takes place – you guessed it – in the bubble.

The bubble is a pristine looking dome filled with nothing but sterile filtered air (99.9% pure, to be precise). Without the usual contaminants mingling in the air, your skin enjoys a healthier environment in which to receive the facial and reap its rewards. The newfangled treatment facility feels relaxed and euphoric, with gentle music piping through hidden speakers and surroundings done in nothing but crisp, flawless white. Aesthetics aside, the bubble is a beauty for another reason altogether: it works in tandem with the facial’s ingredients and allows for greater absorption of their key nutrients. 

It begins with a decadent facial, which includes deep yet gentle cleansing that leaves the skin supple and ready for the following glycolic peel. Though a powerful exfoliant, the peel is usually mild enough even for sensitive skin types and yields an even softer complexion that feels cool and utterly revived. (Confirmation: My own skin is incredibly sensitive, yet this did not tighten or hurt in the least when I enjoyed the treatment a year ago.) You’ll also enjoy a vigorous hand and arm massage, an exhilarating facial massage and the Natura Bissé’s specialty: the application of diamond-infused creams. 

 Truly a take-five respite from the world – and a relatively easy way to pretend you’re a movie star for a day – the Natura Bissé Pure Air Bubble pops into Neiman Marcus at Tysons Galleria from February 22-25. To step inside the bubble and reserve your space, call             703.761.1600       x3305. 

3:07pm  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZTeV8wGMrunR
Filed under: air bubble diamond white facial exfoliation facial glycolic massage moisturizer natura bisse neiman marcus peel tysons galleria 
February 13, 2012
Eve Lom Cleanser


Best In The World?

Tanya Sharma  Posted Wednesday, February 8, 2012 by ,

Leave a Comment

 

Labeling anything the “best in the world” is a lofty praise indeed, but in this case there’s merit to the claim. Facialist Eve Lom, whose client list includes some of the world’s most beautiful women – think Madonna, Kate Hudson and Eva Mendes – formulated a luxurious cleanser now regarded as something of a cult favorite.

Rich in decadent ingredients, the cleanser’s intriguing blend can be traced to Lom’s farm upbringing. The concoction includes natural treatments like antiseptic clove, soothing Egyptian chamomile, toning hops and nourishing cocoa butter, which marry in perfect harmony to create a thick, herbal-scented, exceptionally effective product.

What is it about this seemingly innocuous cream cleanser that makes it so enticing? Glowing reviews and celebrity fans aside, this cleanser is a standout for one key reason: it actually works. Not only does it remove all traces of makeup in mere seconds, it also sloughs off dead skin and leaves behind a brighter, fresher complexion via the included and very gentle woven muslin cloth. 

Lom’s goal was to create a cleanser that did far more than just remove makeup (including stubborn eye makeup, it should be mentioned). She also wanted to ensure that the skin was decongested and left in a healthy state each and every time. The powerful antiseptics may sound a bit alarming – do you really want to massage eucalyptus into your skin? – but well worth the risk. 

In fact, the payoff is astounding.

After Lom’s cleanser works like magic, the skin is left baby soft – so supple that it almost doesn’t require moisturizer. Of course, dry types will benefit from a little extra hydration, so bear that in mind as you build your regimen. 

Find Eve Lom cleanser online and at the Space NK boutique inside Bloomingdale’s at Tysons Corner.

2:56pm  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZTeV8wGMp_fL
Filed under: bloomingdale's celebrity cleanser complexion Eva Mendes eve lom facial kate hudson madonna skin space NK 
Liked posts on Tumblr: More liked posts »