To keep the body fresh and renewed, exfoliation is key. Don't have a body scrub? Make one!
Scrub Recipe
1/2 cup oil- you can use extra virgin olive oil (good for your health and skin), almond oil, grapeseed oil or any type of massage oil you would like. Choose one with little to no fragrance if adding essential oil. A natural foods store would be a great choice to find any of these oils.
1 cup sugar or fine sea salt- both are gentle and perfect for removal of dead skin layers.
5-15 drops essential oil (optional)- this will be an added bonus for the skin, mind, body and soul depending on the essential oil you use. Lavender is calming and relaxing, lemongrass is refreshing, rosemary and peppermint are stimulating. Again, any natural food store should carry essential oils.
Mix ingredients well in a bowl. Texture should be moist and hold well together but not overly oil. There may be a small layer of oil that rises to the surface, this is expected. Find a decorative jar or container for your yummy creation! Perfect gift for any occasion. Exfoliate once a week, this amount should last you for about a week. ENJOY! :)
Monday, December 27, 2010
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Lets Talk: Hyperpigmentation!
Hyperpigmentation- a darkening of an area on the skin. Hyper- is the over stimulation and production of pigment- or a.k.a. melanin cells responding to the reaction of the body's immune system. This reaction triggers melanoctye activity to protect the skin's DNA from damage and mutation.
Causes
1. UV-induced hyperpigmentation (sun damage, "liver spots")- overexposure to the sun, tanning beds, fluorescent and ambient lighting. How to identify: spotty, freckle-like.
2. Melasma- induced by hormone fluctuations. A.k.a, the "pregnancy mask," melasma can be associated with oral contraceptives, pregnancy, thyroid dysfunction and menopause, to name a few. This may or may not subside once the hormone imbalance is normalized and balanced. UV exposure may worsen melasma. How to identify: large, dark, symmetrical patches and jagged borders.
3. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation- pigment is deposited as a result of surface irritation, inflammation or abrasion of the epidermis. How to identify: darkened areas around the sites of trauma. Examples of trauma include but are not limited too: acne, dermatitis, eczema, bug bites, ill-fitting undergarments and other clothing friction may cause discoloration such as "bra burn."
So after all this information, you may be asking, how do I control hyperpigmentation? Gentle exfoliation. Using gentle peeling agents that inhibit melanin cells to produce, which cause the darkening of the skin, will help treat this skin condition. Multiple chemical peel treatments to lift and lighten pigmentation will control the hyperpigmentation, the reason? With natural cell turnover, if the hyperpigmentation is not treated routinely, deeper pigment will rise to the surface of the skin and making it darker once again. PCA skin peels are a great tool that have inhibitors (lighteners) for the melanincytes. And don't forget, sunscreen! :)
Causes
1. UV-induced hyperpigmentation (sun damage, "liver spots")- overexposure to the sun, tanning beds, fluorescent and ambient lighting. How to identify: spotty, freckle-like.
2. Melasma- induced by hormone fluctuations. A.k.a, the "pregnancy mask," melasma can be associated with oral contraceptives, pregnancy, thyroid dysfunction and menopause, to name a few. This may or may not subside once the hormone imbalance is normalized and balanced. UV exposure may worsen melasma. How to identify: large, dark, symmetrical patches and jagged borders.
3. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation- pigment is deposited as a result of surface irritation, inflammation or abrasion of the epidermis. How to identify: darkened areas around the sites of trauma. Examples of trauma include but are not limited too: acne, dermatitis, eczema, bug bites, ill-fitting undergarments and other clothing friction may cause discoloration such as "bra burn."
So after all this information, you may be asking, how do I control hyperpigmentation? Gentle exfoliation. Using gentle peeling agents that inhibit melanin cells to produce, which cause the darkening of the skin, will help treat this skin condition. Multiple chemical peel treatments to lift and lighten pigmentation will control the hyperpigmentation, the reason? With natural cell turnover, if the hyperpigmentation is not treated routinely, deeper pigment will rise to the surface of the skin and making it darker once again. PCA skin peels are a great tool that have inhibitors (lighteners) for the melanincytes. And don't forget, sunscreen! :)
Monday, December 20, 2010
Look Good...Feel Better Session @ Cordelia Knott Wellness Center
Today's session was fun, fun, fun! We had a wonderful holiday theme with many surprises. The other volunteer and I brought gifts and goodies. I love to bake and I had to to make something special...peanut butter blossom cookies, YUM! We were very excited that all of the women could make it! I enjoyed giving the women skin care tips, makeup makeovers and having some good 'ol girly fun! The smile on their faces are so worth it!
If you or someone you know has cancer, please let know about LGFB and the great programs/workshops from the American Cancer Society. LGFB is completely FREE and available in throughout the OC!
Gia, xoxo
If you or someone you know has cancer, please let know about LGFB and the great programs/workshops from the American Cancer Society. LGFB is completely FREE and available in throughout the OC!
Gia, xoxo
Friday, December 17, 2010
Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen!
Dermatologist, Dr. Jennifer Linder of PCA skin recently discussed the topic of sun damage and the most common body parts that can give away your age. She puts emphasis on skin care prevention and how important it is to wear sunscreen, especially at an early age.
The most common areas of damage are the neck, chest and hands. Most often these areas are where sun damage is found and negatively contribute to the aging process. PCA skin chemcial peels are an inexpensive and positive way to reverse the damage. And more importantly, wearing sunscreen is how to prevent the damage. Check out the full discussion below with Dr. Linder!
http://www.abc15.com/dpp/lifestyle/fashion/your-hands-and-neck-can-show-your-age
The most common areas of damage are the neck, chest and hands. Most often these areas are where sun damage is found and negatively contribute to the aging process. PCA skin chemcial peels are an inexpensive and positive way to reverse the damage. And more importantly, wearing sunscreen is how to prevent the damage. Check out the full discussion below with Dr. Linder!
http://www.abc15.com/dpp/lifestyle/fashion/your-hands-and-neck-can-show-your-age
Monday, December 13, 2010
Basic Skin Care Tips!
Often I find that clients, friends and acquaints don't perform basic steps and routines that prevent skin concerns and issues. I will frequently hear, "I don't wash my face and/or moisturize at night," or "I exfoliate my face everyday." Those are painful words for an Esthetician to hear! I decided to provide the following list of basic skin care tips that should be apart of your everyday routine.
1. Wash your face morning AND night! It is extremely important to wash your face in the morning to get rid of all the sweat and activity that has been performed on your skin from sleeping at night.
2. Never wear make up to bed. This will age you over time and create layers of bacteria and dead skin that gives a dull and unhealthy appearance. At night our bodies are sweating, cell turnover is working on our skin and our bodies are detoxing to refresh and renew.
3. Use slightly warm/cold water to wash your face. Never use hot water, this will shock and bruise the capillaries under the dermis and allow them to rise to the epidermis (spider veins on the skin; commonly found around nose and cheeks).
4. Use night cream/moisturizer. Night cream/moisturizer is specifically designed to hydrate and protect the skin at night. Some night cream/moisturizers provide collagen driven ingredients to fight aging, plump and rejuvenate mature skin types.
5. Use eye cream. Just like night cream is made for your face, eye cream is made for the skin under your eyes. The skin under your eyes is the thinnest part of the skin on your body, so it is important to hydrate and protect the skin under the eyes as well.
6. Exfoliate once a week. It is important to maintain glowing and refreshed skin. Exfoliating is the answer, however, over exfoliating will only irritate and create barrier dysfunction (dryness, over stimulation/production). Your skin will now be vulnerable to free radicals to roam around and do as they please. Exfoliate gently with a scrub or mask once a week, pick a day and stick to it!
Hope you find these tips helpful! Bella Skin awaits you!
Gia, xoxo
1. Wash your face morning AND night! It is extremely important to wash your face in the morning to get rid of all the sweat and activity that has been performed on your skin from sleeping at night.
2. Never wear make up to bed. This will age you over time and create layers of bacteria and dead skin that gives a dull and unhealthy appearance. At night our bodies are sweating, cell turnover is working on our skin and our bodies are detoxing to refresh and renew.
3. Use slightly warm/cold water to wash your face. Never use hot water, this will shock and bruise the capillaries under the dermis and allow them to rise to the epidermis (spider veins on the skin; commonly found around nose and cheeks).
4. Use night cream/moisturizer. Night cream/moisturizer is specifically designed to hydrate and protect the skin at night. Some night cream/moisturizers provide collagen driven ingredients to fight aging, plump and rejuvenate mature skin types.
5. Use eye cream. Just like night cream is made for your face, eye cream is made for the skin under your eyes. The skin under your eyes is the thinnest part of the skin on your body, so it is important to hydrate and protect the skin under the eyes as well.
6. Exfoliate once a week. It is important to maintain glowing and refreshed skin. Exfoliating is the answer, however, over exfoliating will only irritate and create barrier dysfunction (dryness, over stimulation/production). Your skin will now be vulnerable to free radicals to roam around and do as they please. Exfoliate gently with a scrub or mask once a week, pick a day and stick to it!
Hope you find these tips helpful! Bella Skin awaits you!
Gia, xoxo
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Waxing Services
Providing the best quality products is the most important duty I can offer to my clients. Berin's French Depilatory Wax is my wax of choice and this product provides the smoothest and most nourishing results.
The skin is prepped with an oil-cleanse for protection and applied at a low heat temperature, super important! By applying the oil-cleanse before the wax, this creates a protective barrier between your skin and the wax; which will allow only the hairs to be removed. Following that application is the post wax essential oil (peppermint, lavender, mandarin oils), which helps soothe and calm the waxed area (if needed). Berin's is designed to be effective and efficient. And once you get waxed, you'll never go back!
I have sensitive skin when it comes to waxing and my skin reacts immediately. Once I was waxed at a nail salon (make sure whoever waxes you at a nail salon is a Licensed Esthetician or Cosmetologist; Manicurists are NOT allowed to do any skin related services, especially waxing) and I was severely burned. I wasn't too swollen but I was super red, hot, sensitive, and felt like my eyebrows were on fire. I had strips around my eyes because you could actually see where she applied the wax. The moral of the story is to find a beauty professional that you TRUST and who is willing to give you information about your services.
Check out this video about Berin's and The Wax Queen who performs a leg wax: http://www.youtube.com/user/EvasEsthetics#p/u/13/t_kSNbVursY
Thanks for reading and stay connected!
Gia, xoxo
The skin is prepped with an oil-cleanse for protection and applied at a low heat temperature, super important! By applying the oil-cleanse before the wax, this creates a protective barrier between your skin and the wax; which will allow only the hairs to be removed. Following that application is the post wax essential oil (peppermint, lavender, mandarin oils), which helps soothe and calm the waxed area (if needed). Berin's is designed to be effective and efficient. And once you get waxed, you'll never go back!
I have sensitive skin when it comes to waxing and my skin reacts immediately. Once I was waxed at a nail salon (make sure whoever waxes you at a nail salon is a Licensed Esthetician or Cosmetologist; Manicurists are NOT allowed to do any skin related services, especially waxing) and I was severely burned. I wasn't too swollen but I was super red, hot, sensitive, and felt like my eyebrows were on fire. I had strips around my eyes because you could actually see where she applied the wax. The moral of the story is to find a beauty professional that you TRUST and who is willing to give you information about your services.
Check out this video about Berin's and The Wax Queen who performs a leg wax: http://www.youtube.com/user/EvasEsthetics#p/u/13/t_kSNbVursY
Thanks for reading and stay connected!
Gia, xoxo
Monday, December 6, 2010
The 411 on Acne...
I recently read an article by Yahoo! titled, "Sneaky Reasons You Get Zits." Written by a non-beauty/ medical professional, I thought the article was helpful towards the general consumer audience. However, I wanted to add my own comments and twist on it.
Lets start off my saying, acne is a skin disorder. There are 4 grades of acne and identified by 2 categories.
Acne Simplex
Grade I: black/white heads (open/closed comodones) are present, scarring is unlikely and non-inflammatory.
Grade II: all seen in Grade I, plus, papules (pimples without pus), pustules (pimples with pus), possibly hormonal acne and scarring can be uncommon.
Acne Vulgaris
Grade III: highly inflamed, bacterial lesions, open/closed comodones may be seen, scarring is more likely.
Grade IV: deep cystic and nodular lesions, as well as Grade I, II and III, scarring is very common due to depth of lesions.
I hope this outline helps give you an idea of the stages of acne. Now lets talk about the types of acne, common causes and how to prevent them.
There are many types of acne and I will give you the most common:
Hormonal, cosmeticia, and bacterial acne. Hormonal acne is just what it means, your hormones are changing and acne can be a symptom of this. One way to identify hormonal acne is that the acne lives around the chin, lower cheeks and jaw area (Common with pregnant women, adolescents and young adults). Acne cosmeticia is triggered by comedogenic (pore-clogging) or irritating ingredients in everyday products, including but not limited too: makeup, laundry detergents, hair care products, and pillow cases. And lastly, bacterial acne is common due to an over-production of bacteria within the follicle or pore.
Tips On How To Control Your Acne
1. Bacterial acne is caused by bacteria, so it is extremely important that you clean/sanitize objects that are in use everyday like: cell phones (makeup left on it), resting your hand on your chin/face, cleaning your makeup brushes routinely, throwing out old makeup (feeding ground for bacteria; generally, old makeup is anything older than 6 months), clean pillow cases ( change every week/day if have persistent acne), clean pajama shirts (change every night if have back/chest acne), etc.
2. Stress is a very common factor to acne, specifically hormonal. As hard as it might be, try to control your stress and understand the difference between good and bad stress. Stress messes with your hormones by acts of eating unhealthy foods (also hormones in foods), drinking alcohol/drugs, internal changes, smoking, etc.
3. Washing your face too much can be a leading cause in acne as well. If you notice that when you wash your face, maybe 2 or 3 times each day and night, and right after there is this drying look (common area is chin, sides of nose, lower cheeks, forehead); that can be a sign of over production. This can lead to an over-production of sebum ( natural oils) compensating for the dryness and creating more acne. Truthfully, it is okay to wash your face 1-2 times each day and night, but if you start to notice your face gets tight, then maybe pull back. Also, don't over do your acne spot-medicine, follow the directions, that is what they are there for.
4. Hair products are notorious for back and possibly chest acne. When you wash your hair, try washing it on the side of you and away from your back and body. Shampoo and conditioner are comedogenic and have drying ingredients that are not made for the skin. Also, laundry items like your wash cloth or shower towel maybe be a factor as well. The detergent ingredients, fabric softener, bleach and fabric sheets for the dryer are all drying ingredients and irritants. If you know or think you may be allergic, go to a natural foods store or grocery store (ex. Mother's, Henry's) and purchase their all natural laundry products.
I hope this information has helped "clear up" any questions or concerns about acne. It may be a lot of information to soak up, however, just keep in mind some common sense choices. And stay in control of YOUR acne!
Gia, XOXO
Lets start off my saying, acne is a skin disorder. There are 4 grades of acne and identified by 2 categories.
Acne Simplex
Grade I: black/white heads (open/closed comodones) are present, scarring is unlikely and non-inflammatory.
Grade II: all seen in Grade I, plus, papules (pimples without pus), pustules (pimples with pus), possibly hormonal acne and scarring can be uncommon.
Acne Vulgaris
Grade III: highly inflamed, bacterial lesions, open/closed comodones may be seen, scarring is more likely.
Grade IV: deep cystic and nodular lesions, as well as Grade I, II and III, scarring is very common due to depth of lesions.
I hope this outline helps give you an idea of the stages of acne. Now lets talk about the types of acne, common causes and how to prevent them.
There are many types of acne and I will give you the most common:
Hormonal, cosmeticia, and bacterial acne. Hormonal acne is just what it means, your hormones are changing and acne can be a symptom of this. One way to identify hormonal acne is that the acne lives around the chin, lower cheeks and jaw area (Common with pregnant women, adolescents and young adults). Acne cosmeticia is triggered by comedogenic (pore-clogging) or irritating ingredients in everyday products, including but not limited too: makeup, laundry detergents, hair care products, and pillow cases. And lastly, bacterial acne is common due to an over-production of bacteria within the follicle or pore.
Tips On How To Control Your Acne
1. Bacterial acne is caused by bacteria, so it is extremely important that you clean/sanitize objects that are in use everyday like: cell phones (makeup left on it), resting your hand on your chin/face, cleaning your makeup brushes routinely, throwing out old makeup (feeding ground for bacteria; generally, old makeup is anything older than 6 months), clean pillow cases ( change every week/day if have persistent acne), clean pajama shirts (change every night if have back/chest acne), etc.
2. Stress is a very common factor to acne, specifically hormonal. As hard as it might be, try to control your stress and understand the difference between good and bad stress. Stress messes with your hormones by acts of eating unhealthy foods (also hormones in foods), drinking alcohol/drugs, internal changes, smoking, etc.
3. Washing your face too much can be a leading cause in acne as well. If you notice that when you wash your face, maybe 2 or 3 times each day and night, and right after there is this drying look (common area is chin, sides of nose, lower cheeks, forehead); that can be a sign of over production. This can lead to an over-production of sebum ( natural oils) compensating for the dryness and creating more acne. Truthfully, it is okay to wash your face 1-2 times each day and night, but if you start to notice your face gets tight, then maybe pull back. Also, don't over do your acne spot-medicine, follow the directions, that is what they are there for.
4. Hair products are notorious for back and possibly chest acne. When you wash your hair, try washing it on the side of you and away from your back and body. Shampoo and conditioner are comedogenic and have drying ingredients that are not made for the skin. Also, laundry items like your wash cloth or shower towel maybe be a factor as well. The detergent ingredients, fabric softener, bleach and fabric sheets for the dryer are all drying ingredients and irritants. If you know or think you may be allergic, go to a natural foods store or grocery store (ex. Mother's, Henry's) and purchase their all natural laundry products.
I hope this information has helped "clear up" any questions or concerns about acne. It may be a lot of information to soak up, however, just keep in mind some common sense choices. And stay in control of YOUR acne!
Gia, XOXO
Thursday, December 2, 2010
My Facial Room Oasis!
Hello friends....
I updated Bella Skin by Gia's Facebook page and posted pictures of my room. I am super excited to show you all, especially with all the hard work and love put into this beautiful place! Enjoy :] xoxo
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Look Good...Feel Better
Hi there!
I just have to let you all in on my experience as a volunteer for the Look Good...Feel Better workshop put on by the American Cancer Society. I truly had such an amazing time and those 2 hours were filled with makeup, gossip, laughter & a lot of love in that room!
Today's session was located at Saddleback Memorial Hospital in Laguna Hills. LGFB is located at many different hospitals in Orange County, you can find out when the next session is by going to www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org or you can email me for more information @ Giana@bellaskinbygia.com. We started off the session by showing a short video highlighting LGFB. Followed by the video, the volunteers introduced themselves and explained why they choose to be involved with LGFB, and proceeding on with the patients telling their stories. Then after that, it was history! We had such a enjoyable and girly time putting on makeup, trying on different wigs/scarfs/wraps, exchanging tips and more!
I would HIGHLY recommend this workshop for any women going through the chemotherapy and radiation process. You get to meet other women who relate to you and its a wonderful session to just focus on yourself. Its FREE and you receive a fun gift bag filled with donated products from many different cosmetic companys including: Chanel, Aveda, Maybeline, Avon, Dove, NYC, Loreal, Estee Lauder and more!
Workshops for teens and men are available, please visit cancer.org. Please let anyone you know affected by cancer in on this workshop, they will truly enjoy it! xoxo
I just have to let you all in on my experience as a volunteer for the Look Good...Feel Better workshop put on by the American Cancer Society. I truly had such an amazing time and those 2 hours were filled with makeup, gossip, laughter & a lot of love in that room!
Today's session was located at Saddleback Memorial Hospital in Laguna Hills. LGFB is located at many different hospitals in Orange County, you can find out when the next session is by going to www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org or you can email me for more information @ Giana@bellaskinbygia.com. We started off the session by showing a short video highlighting LGFB. Followed by the video, the volunteers introduced themselves and explained why they choose to be involved with LGFB, and proceeding on with the patients telling their stories. Then after that, it was history! We had such a enjoyable and girly time putting on makeup, trying on different wigs/scarfs/wraps, exchanging tips and more!
I would HIGHLY recommend this workshop for any women going through the chemotherapy and radiation process. You get to meet other women who relate to you and its a wonderful session to just focus on yourself. Its FREE and you receive a fun gift bag filled with donated products from many different cosmetic companys including: Chanel, Aveda, Maybeline, Avon, Dove, NYC, Loreal, Estee Lauder and more!
Workshops for teens and men are available, please visit cancer.org. Please let anyone you know affected by cancer in on this workshop, they will truly enjoy it! xoxo
*December Special*
Happy December! A new month brings new specials. Take advantage of these amazing deals. Gift certificates are a perfect gift for the holidays, who doesn't LOVE being pampered?!
December Special:
1. (Extended from November) ALL clients will receive $5 off towards ANY facial service! AND...
2. Anyone who purchases a gift certificate will receive $10 off on ANY value! (Ex. Pay $35 for a $45 gift certificate)
Love, love, love it! Call me today to book your appointment, 714-931-8771.
Happy Holidays! xoxo
December Special:
1. (Extended from November) ALL clients will receive $5 off towards ANY facial service! AND...
2. Anyone who purchases a gift certificate will receive $10 off on ANY value! (Ex. Pay $35 for a $45 gift certificate)
Love, love, love it! Call me today to book your appointment, 714-931-8771.
Happy Holidays! xoxo
Welcome!
Hello friends!
I would like to personally welcome you to the Bella Skin by Gia experience. I am so very excited to connect with my clients and friends outside the "facial room." I hope you enjoy my blogs, website, and Facebook page! Stay tuned for specials, skin care tips, product knowledge, articles, events and more! I look forward to take you on your skin therapy journey. Bella Skin awaits you! xoxo
Giana Petrichella
Owner & License Esthetician
714.931.8771
Giana@BellaSkinByGia.com
www.BellaSkinByGia.com
I would like to personally welcome you to the Bella Skin by Gia experience. I am so very excited to connect with my clients and friends outside the "facial room." I hope you enjoy my blogs, website, and Facebook page! Stay tuned for specials, skin care tips, product knowledge, articles, events and more! I look forward to take you on your skin therapy journey. Bella Skin awaits you! xoxo
Giana Petrichella
Owner & License Esthetician
714.931.8771
Giana@BellaSkinByGia.com
www.BellaSkinByGia.com
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