INSPIRATION...

What Inspires YOU? This is a month of Love & Inspiration for me.

I love beauty! I enjoy beautiful things, beautiful words & quotes.. I see beauty around me every day and I can find beauty in every one I meet.

February is a tough month.

Do you have a Valentine or Don't you? Do you buy roses or wait until another time of the year. Do you send special people in your life notes or wait for another time?

Back East the Winter is in full force & probably annoying by now.

In the West the weather doesn't exactly know what it wants to do..

Transition, to Spring. It's so close but not within reach yet.

A time of change. Darker makeup? Lighter makeup? Brighter or lighter lips?

Time to clean out the closet.. give away those clothes you haven't worn in a year.

And finally it is starting to be lighter later.

Transition, confusion and maybe frustration!

I've decided this month for me is about INSPIRATION..

Inspiration for myself and Inspiring others.

I sit all day and listen to so many stories.. some happy, some sad, some hopeful and some hopeless. How can I help? Listening all by itself is a good start. But what if every situation you encounter you look at it a different way? See how you can put a positive spin on it. Pick one thing a day that inspires you and allow yourself 10 minutes to enjoy it.

Go buy that dress you have had your eye on, try 3 lipsticks.. you may like them all! Buy some new soap, smile at a stranger or start writing that letter or blog you've thought of for awhile. Start a new business, reconnect with friends, pick-up a new hobby or try a new dance class.. When in doubt DO something for SOMEONE else! Whatever it is for you.. Do it!

In the process of inspiring yourself & others, you may actually stumble upon a treasure you never knew was there! For me, Love is always attached to Inspiration..

I stumbled on this quote at the end of the month, and it inspired me to write this entry:

"People will forget what you said and what you did, but people will NEVER forget how you made them feel." ~ Dr Maya Angelou

Have a Wonderful Month Filled with Your Own Inspiration & Love!

Here's a great example to help get you started:

http://coastalconversations.wordpress.com/a-yr-of-inspiration/

You can't Smile & Frown at the same time!

It's true! If you are frowning you can't SMILE. If you are SMILING you can't frown, at least not at the same time.

Smiling LIFTS everything up.. Frowning brings everything down and exaggerates WRINKLES!

So while on vacation visiting my parents this holiday season, my mom looks over at me and says, "Are you using EYE CREAM?"

I just stare at her wanting to say, MOM! I am a skin care professional..

She then says, "YOU better! I can see lines starting around your eyes and your skin is so pretty it would be a shame to let your eye area go."

Gotta love MOMS. I DO love my mom, she started me at 19 years old on skincare and I still think that really made a difference in my skin today. And even though I hate to admit it, she got me thinking.. Even though I am almost 39 years old, sometimes she is still right. LOL I might have noticed a few "LINES" starting around my eyes but I am working VERY hard on my SMILE LINES (at least that is what I tell myself!)

When I workout out at the YMCA and swim in the pool without makeup and abunch of women, I notice two things:

First, they all think I am in my twenties (remember, without makeup).

Second, I can GUESS by the casual expressions on people's faces, who has a happy life and who might be stressed or unhappy.

Casual people watching, you can learn a few things from people's skin and expressions.

People wear their attitudes on their face.

They wear their habits on their skin.. you CAN'T fake it. What is going on inside, shows on the outside.

As we start a New Year, start to notice. If you are watching TV or casually thinking about your day and you quickly caught a glimpse of yourself in the mirror, would you be SMILING or FROWNING?

When you lay down to sleep or as you awake in the morning, are you SMILING or FROWNING?

Call me crazy, but after purchasing OIL OF OLAY'S "Regenerist" Eye Serum and applying twice a day.. I remind

myself before bed, after waking and while singing along in my car.. I AM WORKING on my SMILE lines!

It's up to you!

Good skin not only takes time & work,

but because you can't SMILE & FROWN at the same time!

HOT Hollywood Holiday Original Gifts...

An Accessory Must Have:

Check out Ch'armz at: http://www.ch-armz.com/
Created by my girlfriend Carlie Tracey who has worked on TV & Film sets for 15 years as a costumer & wardrobe stylist is brilliant! They are sleeves that attach to your bra straps to add arms to any short sleeve or 3/4 sleeve sweater/top. They are so unique and comfortable. I wear them all winter & they are flying off the shelves at the spa. My fav is the black & white floral swirl.

Give the Gift of Astrology:

One of my clients, a local British astrologer Gillian Payne, is offering an Xmas holiday discount of 50% for an astrological reading of your natal chart. In addition to covering your natal chart she will discuss the astrological trends affecting you in 2011. Readings typically last 90 minutes and you can visit her in person or consult with her by phone. She works by referral only so please mention my name when you contact her at gillianpayne@ymail.com.

A Hollywood Keepsake:

Warner Bros. donated three movie reels to the Boys & Girls Club of Burbank. As a fundraiser they decided to make these unique bows for holiday gift giving. They are actual shots on real film stock from the films: The Traveller's Wife.. Sherlock Holmes.. & Valentine's Day.
They are a great unique hollywood souvenir! They are $5 each. You can order them or pick them up at the spa.

Hollywood Lashes:

Whether you are from here, live here or dream of Hollywood - YOU can give or receive the gift of affordable gorgeous lashes. There are alot of growth products on the market but my pick is RAPID LASH. No matter where you live you can buy this product online or in stores like Ulta. There aren't severe side effects like Latisse and I have used it myself as well as my clients and have seen great results. It is affordable at $50 and of course it makes a great gift.
Anyone in the area, once you have new fabulous lashes, should look into the new semi-permanent mascara application that lasts 2-3 weeks. I'm just saying..

Shoe Stoppers:

These one of a kind creations are all done by hand! You buy the Keds or Vans and Sara does the rest. Sara Hellman is the daughter of one of my clients and is definitely an up and coming artist. This is a great was to get an original before she is famous.. I have an sparkling angelic pair myself. $30 for B&W print, $40 for color design. You choose the theme.. All shoes are delivered via the spa. Kids & Adults LOVE them!



So wherever you are this holiday season, remember it is the time not only to reflect & renew but also to give thanks. Be grateful for all the beautiful blessings you have in your life and do something for someone else so they can count you as a blessing of their own.

Happy Holidays & Wishes for a Beautiful New Year! ~Michelle

Hollywood Fall Trends 2010

It is 7am and here I am in a dark, cold room that will soon turn into a bright, bustling make-up room. This is the place where the “magic” happens, stories are shared and tips are exchanged. It is fall and everyone is asking about looks and trends. Red & Plum are the hot colors and here is the TOP 5 Fall Hot Sheet for anyone in my chair:

LASH RAGE:

Lashes whether they are false or extensions, they all everyone is talking about. When I work with someone new, they soon realize, I am the lash girl. Eyelashes draw the camera & others right into what you are expressing or saying. With the new lash growth products like Latisse ($150 Rx only) and Rapid Lash ($50), everyone can find something that works for them. Lash growers are wonderful for nourishing lashes but take commitment and patience. Healthy, shiny, full and long - this is what everyone wants. False lashes are great for a few nights of drama. Extensions are great for months of waking up without mascara, ready to go. Mascara (love CG LashBlast) is awesome and the one item I would need on a deserted island!

HAIR BLING!:

This is really NEW in Hollywood! Beyonce’ make them popular in the spring and now every celebrity is sporting some BLING! These are sparkly fibers that gently get tied into your hair and last 1-2 weeks. You can wash them, curl them, flat iron them and style your hair with them in. They loosen and just slide off the hair… but definitely turn heads wherever you go. I think everyone needs a little BLING! in their life.

SMOKEY EYES or RED LIPS:

The Fall colors are Red and Plum. This is always the time where the natural, bronzed summer look kicks up into a more deep, dramatic look. Smokey eyes are always popular for fall/holidays. Shimmer, sparkle, black lined inner eyes, winged top liner and purple/eggplant/plums are this year’s look. Most makeup lines have a fabulous plum palette you can try for the Fall (Chanel’s ENIGMA a client fav). I suggest starting with a neutral base (brown/grey) and slowly layer the brighter/darker shade into the neutral base. Keep a highlight under the brow and the rest is your creation. Palettes are great, allowing you to try colors you may not normally choose, without worrying about blending tones.

Red always comes around in the Fall and this year it is all the rage. I LOVE red lips and usually recommend a bluer based red for most lips. Try on the color before purchasing and look at your teeth. If your teeth turn yellow, tone down the red and choose a darker, softer tone like a brick. When you are sporting a bright lip, you may want to go easy on the eyeshadow treatment. You don’t want your eyes & lips competing with each other. Dark liner, dark lashes with light sparkly shadow is a great compliment to red lips.

FLAWLESS SKIN:

Clean, smooth skin is on everyone’s wish list these days. A proper skincare regiment accompanied by ALWAYS washing your face before bed, is the best start. Your skin rejuvenates itself at night, so moisturize and treat before dozing off. Lighter foundations are the most popular, but with good coverage. People want to see skin and high definition television requires a much lighter coverage. If you have a foundation you like, you can mix it with moisturizer to create your own tinted moisturizer. The key to good skin, is using SPF, all year long!

DETOX before HOLIDAYS:

Everyone in Hollywood is always on a diet or detoxing (especially before the holidays). There are so many fads and crazes. A new favorite is alkaline water. It is a natural detox for your body. Our bodies are made up of mostly water (approx. 50-70%). Scientists say that antibodies, disease, sickness and toxins cannot survive in an alkaline environment. Foods we eat create an Acidic environment. If we can balance the PH level in our bodies, we are healthier and illness free. This is one of the new best anti-aging tips. I love the Kangan water and include it in home care treatments for my clientele. With regular use, you will definitely see a difference. In a pinch, no alkaline water? Add a lemon.

Remember, celebrities look just like you and me without makeup. Red carpet looks do not always translate into real life. Have fun, try something new for the season and be happy. The best make-up sits on a naturally unique and beautiful face with a smile on it! A smile is the best accessory any time of the year!

HAIR BLING!

We are in LOVE with hair BLING!
Beyonce` made it popular first and now it's all the rage.


Tiny strands of tinsel add a very subtle glimmer to your hair. It will definitely make people stop and stare. I actually makes us Giggle... they can't figure out what it is!

We have been BLINGING! :

- Brides & Moms of the Bride (perfect added sparkle for that special day)
- Vacationers (just a touch of fun for your trip)
- Teenager/Cheerleaders (just in time for school; they love showing off their school colors)
- Pets (anyone with a full tail gets a bit for a sparkling tail wagging)
- Special People (that's you) with an everyday special event (because it is fun)

You can wash your hair with them, flat iron or curl on medium heat, blow-dry and style. You just can't color with them or their color will be lost.


They come in all colors (red, green, blue, turq, purple, pink, etc.)
and hair colors too (champagne, chocolate, copper, deep red, and black)

They last about 2 weeks!


We think EVERYONE needs a little BLING! in their life!

10 Small Ways to Make The World a Better Place!!

I had to borrow this article from DUSTIN WAX. Everything listed here is so true and I was so touched by the list. It only take a minute to make a difference in someone's day... which may lead to a better next day, to making someone else's day... and so on. You've heard of "Paying it Forward..."

Our spa is choosing to make a difference in our community for AUGUST by collecting items for our local FOOD BANK. What can you do this month to "Make the World a Better Place... for Someone Else?"

(Copied from original link: http://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/10-small-ways-to-make-the-world-a-better-place.html) Thanks DUSTIN!

Here are ten little gestures, all of them easily within our grasp, that can spread goodwill in our own communities, as well as increase our own sense of mindfulness about the people around us and our relationship to them.

1. Tip generously: As often as you can afford, leave a tip of 25%, 50%, 100%, or even more. (Obviously this applies mostly in countries where 15% tips are the norm.) Unless the service was simply awful – and even then, it might pay to consider what your server goes through – leaving as large a tip as you can afford not only puts a little extra extra money in your servers’ pocket, it tells them that they’re appreciated, a message that often slips our minds in our demanding, service-now society.
2. Compliment someone: Tell someone how much you like the job they’re doing, their outfit or new haircut, their singing voice – whatever. Be honest and sincere. I like to practice “drive-by compliments”, sending an out-of-the-blue email to someone whose website, post, or comment on a post I really liked. Don’t expect anything in return, just let someone know that something they’re doing works and move on.
3. Be totally open with someone: Let someone know exactly how you feel about something on your mind (though not something negative about them – there’s a different “protocol” for that sort of thing). We often keep too much to ourselves; letting someone into your confidence can be a great way to show your trust and appreciation of them. Of course, you have to judge what is and isn’t appropriate – it is possible to move past openness to dragging others into your problems, and that’s not making the world a better place.
4. Give someone a book you’ve read: Making a gift of something you’ve read and enjoyed is more than just a nice gesture, it’s a way of showing someone that a) you think of them, b) you understand them, and c) you want to share something with them. The moment doesn’t end when they take the book – once they’ve read it, you can talk about your reactions together. Don’t do this with people around you who don’t read, though – you’ll build up an obligation that will be painful for them to discharge.
5. Make something for someone: Bake an extra batch of cookies, draw a picture, decorate an extra Christmas ornament, and give it to someone for no good reason. Like giving someone a book, it tells them that you were thinking about them and wanted to do something nice for them, and that it’s something you made adds a nice touch. Give without expectations – whether they return the favor or not, whether they like it or not, whether they’re nice to you or not, these are all irrelevant.
6. Send a letter, email, tweet, or text message out of the blue: Email someone you haven’t spoken with for a while, or text someone you see every day just to be nice. Maybe they’ll respond, maybe not – it’s beside the point. They just need to know that they’re important to you.
7. Commend an employee to their manager: It’s one thing to tip or compliment someone for their service, it’s another to contact their manager and tell them what a great job they’ve done. If you don’t have time at the time of service, note the employees name and call, email, or write a letter later.
8. Teach someone how to do something: Share your skill or talent with someone by showing them how to do something. Not so they won’t bother you with it, but so they can move a little bit towards improved mastery of the world around them. Have patience and respect for the person you’re helping – you’re giving them a gift, not compensating for some lack in their character.
9. Let someone shine: Put a spotlight on someone else’s talents by letting them take over a presentation deferring to their wisdom, asking them advice, or otherwise flex their “talent muscles”. Especially if they are junior to you, giving them a chance to strut their stuff shows that you trust them and appreciate them, as well as allowing them to get the attention they deserve (and which might often be obscured by your own shadow).
10. Connect like minds: Introduce two friends or colleagues who you feel have something to gain from each other. You’ll be letting them know you value them – and maybe creating a partnership that will make everyone better off.

You’ve probably heard the saying “Practice random acts of kindness”, and that’s basically what I’m talking about here. Anything that shows people you care about them – something we can be mighty stingy about most of the time – has the potential to make the world, or your small corner of it, a better place.

Ahh SUMMER - remember like a child, then act as adult Natural, Beautiful & YOU!

The summer was always my favorite time of the year growing up on the East Coast. Memorial Day Weekend was the start of freedom, sun and friends! I also knew school was almost out and the pool was finally unveiled for the summer...

Living in Southern California, I am spoiled... the pleasures of summer fun are enjoyable almost year round. But I always refer back to my childhood attitude. As an adult, I now see Summer as a time to PLAY, SLOW DOWN and TAKE time for ME! I can still have a mini-summer vacation.

At the shop, we try to turn our services into treats for the over-worked, over-stressed client that needs to slow down and treat themselves to SUMMER LOVE. The kids are at home and the weather really starts heating up. We make sure we have LOTS of sunscreen available as well as all natural choices (skincare with SPF and mineral foundations with zinc).

We always have the chocolate bowl filled, an iced cappuccino or herbal tea instead of hot treats. Alkaline water is a great re-generator and detox option - and always on hand at the spa. Of course we have our favorite coconut based lotions from FIJI with yummy smelling scents that compliment our all natural soy candles along with glittering accessories.

So we make sure all the ingredients to a mini-staycation or "me" time are all available for the summer months. We all work more than we should, but we need to balance that with playtime (especially during the summer!) But as Memorial Day approaches lets take a moment and remember what the idea of summer meant to us as kids...

Even though we aren't on summer vacation, we can't spend every waking hour in the pool and our friends aren't available - try to do something for YOU this summer.

Grab a book you want to read - take 15 min. and sit in the sunshine - take a nap

rent a movie - light a candle and take a bath - plan a long weekend

enjoy the outdoors & weather - buy a new outfit - try a new haircut
learn something or try something you have on your list

paint your toes a fun BLUE (try a reverse french manicure)

buy a new lipgloss - visit an old friend..
create a LASTING summer memory this year,
just like when you were a kid.

Whatever you do, enjoy the coming of SUMMER.

Summer is the time to slow down, have fun, relax and do something just for YOU!
Just because you are grown up.. doesn't mean you can't enjoy the summer like a kid.

I'm taking up GOLF!

A Beautiful Story That Needs to Be Shared...

If you know anyone with Cancer or going through treatment who could use a lift, please forward this story.

The American Cancer Society has a wonderful program for women going through cancer treatments, called "Look Good...Feel Better!"

Lisa Sigell did a wonderful segment! Thank you Lisa and CBS News for letting people know what we are doing...

CBS News Story

Change is Good - Celebrate Spring!

Change is often thought of as scary. Many people are going through change now, whether they want to or not. If you look back on the times in your life you had change, I can guarantee something positive came out of it. It shakes things up, keeps you on your toes, gets the creative juices flowing, changes your attitude - but yes, can be scary!

Lets give CHANGE a positive spin...

Think Spring Cleaning... take the time to eliminate anything that isn't working in your life. Try something you have always wanted to try. Take a class to learn something new. Make a new friend. Re-connect and visit with a long lost friend. Take some time out to be quiet and listen. Start a journal. Clean out your closet and donate your clothes to a local charity. Look at a unexpected change as an adventure into something new - it will usually leave you with an unexpected gift...

Springtime Beauty Advice

One of the best secrets in beauty is this: If you want to stay young = stay active. If you want to feel young = stay positive. If you want to look young = wear sunscreen!

Some of the best new and old tried and true products for spring we have found:
CHINA GLAZE nail polish. We love the great BLUE colors for the season and that they are "going green".

BYE BYE BLEMISH sulfur based spot treatment. This is the time of year a few breakouts pop out. This treatment will zap those unwelcome guests, sometimes even before you see them!

REVITALASH & LATISSE lash growers. The lashes are hot! These growers have proven their importance in beauty! Latisse is by prescription, Revitalash is at most beauty stores. Within 3-4 months your lashes will be gorgeous and stronger.

FIJI moisturizers are all coconut oil based. These are awesome! All the lotions, moisturizers and scrubs are 100% coconut oil in base. They are moisturizing, healing and healthy. They layer nicely and smell incredible with natural oil essences.

COLORSCIENCE POWDER SUNSCREEN is all minerals. Most mineral makeup has natural sunscreen of mica and zinc in the product. We like this line for the variety of products and the actual blocking of the sun. They are also endorsed by the Skin Cancer Association.

Some fun accessories we can't live without for the spring:

Homemade cadet style hats. These are all one of a kind designs, flattering to all faces and shapes and have great brims for sun coverage.

Keys around our neck. We love all the Tiffany inspired key necklaces. We like to call them the key to our hearts.

Flowers for our hair. Nothing says Spring like flowers. Accessorizing in an updo or curly mane with a flower definitely draws attention.

Scarves. Whether in the hair, around the neck or tied at the waist. We still love scarves as the weather warms. Fun, light, colorful prints dress up or accessorize a basic outfit for any day.

Sarah Tops. Custom decorated by hand - Vans or Keds. One of our clients (19yrs. old) started her own business making custom shoes... they are amazing and look like they are manufactured not drawn by hand so precisely.

So be inspired:

"Change is the essence of life.
Be willing to surrender what you are,
for what you could become!"

And here's to a WONDERFUL Spring...

Beauty and Giving

~ True Beauty ~

What is Beautiful to YOU?
A song, a poem, a piece of artwork, a friend, a child, the ocean, a sunset, a flower, a car, a color, a place, a memory, a smell, a touch, the voice of an old friend, a picture in a magazine, an outfit or a hairstyle?
How about giving to someone else?

A dear friend told me, “Looks don’t last in the end, they fade over time. It is what is in your Heart that stands the test of time – that is what lasts Forever.”

He is right! I work with beauty all day. I touch a lot of beautiful people. Many of them have so much beauty inside them, they just can’t see it for themselves…

Giving to someone else, with all your Heart, without expecting anything in return…
that is “True Beauty.”
The act of selfless Giving that comes from Pure Love, is how we not only find the beauty in others, but we realize the beauty in ourselves.

So make a point of doing for someone else each day. Even just a smile to a stranger works! You will be surprised at how great it makes you feel and how beautiful people will say you are…

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Results from our Locks of Love Event!
A BIG THANK YOU to ALL that DONATED time & hair!

Watch our Video...

"Look Good... Feel Better" for the American Cancer Society

We are official! Certified to teach the
ACS's "Look Good... Feel Better" program
to all women going through cancer treatments.
Giving Love, Showing Support and Encouraging Hope!

Patients in various stages of treatment receive make-over tips and personal attention from professionals trained to meet their needs. They also use and take home complimentary cosmetic kits in their appropriate skin tones (light, medium, dark, extra dark) with helpful instruction booklets. Professional advice is provided on wigs, scarves and accessories. More than 50,000 individuals participate each year in small groups of five to ten, offering each patient a supportive circle, as well.

By encouraging your friend or family member to attend a Look Good…Feel Better group program, you help promote an important tool for coping. A recent study showed that only a small percentage of female patients knew about or attended any type of support program. Instead, patients said they relied on the advice of family and friends to deal with these concerns. So what can you do for a woman close to you who is experiencing the appearance-related side effects of cancer?
Tell them about Look Good... Feel Better!

For more information: www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org

Save Your Skin... Transitioning from Summer to Fall

Whether you live on the East Coast, West Coast or somewhere in between - this is the time of year we start getting ready for the holidays. The most noticable difference is the weather and our schedules.

Here are a few quick fixes your skin will love you for...

Face:
Try cleansing with a foam cleanser (these usually give your skin a squeaky clean feel), apply a toner (love Epicuren Protein Mister and Bio Elements Equalizer), then follow with a thicker moisturizer to balance the change in climate. If only applying once a day, choose the evening (this is when your skin rests and regenerates - just like our bodies). Keep those lips kissable with your favorite lip balm before hitting the hay.

Exfoliate one more time a week. If you don't exfoliate, now is a great time to start. Eliminating dry skin will help keep your pores unclogged. If you have acne, check out the BYE BYE Blemish line. One of my MUST haves is the drying lotion (sulfur based). It gets rid of breakouts and even soon to be breakouts in 1-2 days!

Hands/Nails:
Nails tend to adjust to the change in weather abruptly. They become more brittle, dry and have more snags. Try keeping nails a slightly shorter functional length. Put cuticle oil at the base of your nails every night to moisturize and help new growth (try China Glaze Orange Cuticle Oil, smells great too) then follow with your favorite creamy moisturizing lotion (try Body Drench Body Creme', yum).

If you want the most youthful hands this recipe works great...
Exfoliate the tops of your hands and lightly mist with a toner. Apply a thick layer of creamy moisturizer and oil at your cuticles. Cover your hands with gloves, socks or mitts for at least 30 minutes.
Upon removal, massage remaining cream into your hands and drift off to sleep. You will wake with wonderfully smooth baby skin.

For severe cracking and chapping of hands or feet during winter months try personal paraffin dips once a week, they work great!

Body:
Better shaving and smoother sexy legs. Exfoliate with a body scrub the day before you plan on shaving to remove dead skin and loosen ingrown hairs. Use moisturizing shaving cream not soap. Shave after being in the shower for awhile (shampoo first), hair follicles are softer. Follow before leaving shower with an oil based moisturizer (Skin so Soft or Bath Dessert at bathjunkie.com).

Dry brush your entire body once a week before showering... your skin will thank you and be as smooth as butter!

WEEKEND WAXING FOR CHARITY Saturday AUG 29 & Sunday AUG 30

Waxing services all day!
ALL proceeds go to the
American Cancer Society
(Burbank Division)
and the spa will match all $ raised...

15 min. appointments (lips, nose, brow, etc.)

30 min. appointments (basic bikini, underarm, back, etc)

All waxing services are
50% off
two days only!!!!!

Nothing but waxing all day 10-6pm
perfect for the summer days.

Appointment recommended...

Great service, great deal and good reason...

Call now to book your time!

Limited to first come, first booked availability.

Summer time - How to stay young and look great!

The kids are out of school, next week is Fourth of July and I feel like last week was a glorious Memorial Day weekend...

So lets talk summer beauty.

I just turned 37 this year and I have received some interesting compliments in the past few months. People that just meet me, find out how old I am and want to know my secret! LOL

So besides having the experience of being a studio makeup artist for almost ten years (using lots of tips on myself that I found valuable from set,) and working in esthetics and the beauty field every day... I do have a few secrets up my sleeve. One of my first makeup mentors told me - NEVER keep your tricks to yourself - always share with others... you're never that good! And when you share, it will always come back to you.

So here you go... very simple "Keeping your Youth" tips for the summer and every day.

1. SUN Limit your sun exposure (especially during peak hours). I have wholeheartedly embraced the porcelain skin is beautiful concept. I am Irish & Swedish - say no more... Because I have limited my sun exposure for at least the past ten years and wear sunscreen on my chest, neck and face every day without fail - I think I have postponed some spotting and wrinkles.
- Using a sunscreen with ZINC and TITIANIUM DIOXIDE is best - they are the strongest.


2. SKINCARE At a minimum after you turn 30 years old, you need to re-evaluate your skincare. You need something more active for your skin than you did in your 20s. In your 40s & 50s you need something more active than in your 30s. I love the peptides and enzymes. Natural is great but you do need to check for an active ingredient. Vitamin C is quickly becoming a favorite of mine for clients as well as a minimally active Retinol. Exfoliation is the key and treatment for renewal at NIGHT (this is when your skin replenishes itself and rejuvenates).

3. A good ATTITUDE. I have always tried to be a positive person. We are in trying times... Your attitude does make a difference on your appearance and your wrinkles.
SMILE at one person a day... Always try to make lemonade from lemons and see the glass half full... try counting one blessing a day - and you will be surprised at how many days it takes for you to run out of things to be thankful for.

4. Nutrition and HEALTH. Simple I know, but very easily overlooked in our busy every day stresses and schedules. I recently lost 15 pounds since the beginning of the year. I started eating! My schedule is so busy sometimes, I was not making time to eat. My metabolism slowed down and I started adding weight. By adding something each day for breakfast, vitamins and oil capsule supplements - small meals and snacks throughout the day, I noticed a difference in my skin, hair and body. I also started hula hooping for a 1/2 hour in front of the TV every other night. I do not enjoy the gym and am usually tired after a long day, so this was manageable. Start with small goals - but make a CHANGE - YOU are worth it.
Your skin reflects what is happening inside.

5. MAKEUP For the summer I like to keep it simple. I LOVE tinted moisturizer over my normal skincare. If I have a special event, I use a light foundation or mineral foundation. My skin tends to be dry so I mist the minerals with toner or water after application to elevate the matte/pasty look. I use Cover Girl LASH BLAST, which I swear by for mascara - waterproof only if I am planning on swimming or crying (not everyday). I use like sparkly tones all over my lids with a nice neutral brown or fun plum or green to accentuate my eyes. For night or special events I will pop some deep plum or charcoal in the corner of my lower lid and slightly in the crease for drama. I use STYLI STYLE - line and seal eyeliner or wet a mineral eye shadow that will stay on all day long! Blush is light and blended and bronzer works well for some glow or color over my porcelain skin. I love to finish with tinted/toned chapstick or a lipgloss.
In the summer, I feel less is more and I love to see my skin through the makeup... another reason to take care of your skin.

So I hope I have inspired you to "stay young and look young" - although it really is all in how we feel - age is only a number... my goal is to grow wiser, gracefully. But trust me some days are easier than others. But have fun with it - try new products and ENJOY your summer.

Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you... and feel free to contact me with any questions or comments!

Remember, YOU are perfectly im-perfect... exactly as you were meant to be!!! And that is what makes YOU beautiful!

MAY is Skin Cancer AWARENESS Month

Sunscreen & Protective clothing is the KEY to preventing skin cancer.

After my Aunt passed away from a small mole on the top of her scalp that started as skin cancer and turned into bone and brain cancer, I decided I needed to spread the word on this silent but deadly disease.

My aunt was Irish through and through, very light skin. She loved golf and played whenever she got the chance. She always wore sunscreen and a visor but not a full hat. My aunt passed away four years after her hairstylist discovered a raised mole that suddenly appearance in her hair on her scalp.

Awareness and education is key to prevention. For the month of MAY we are advocating Skin Cancer Prevention at the spa. All clients will receive a samples of EPICUREN's sunscreen & a lip balm as well as a thought of the day card with reminders on checking for skin cancer.

Even though, we all love a great tan... remember the environment is changing and that tan could be dangerous. For more information go to www.skincancer.org.

Have a great month and help me spread the word...

Labor Day ALREADY?!?

So the kids are back at school, no more vacations for awhile.

You are happy, sad, disappointed or exhausted. Now it's time to make time for YOU!

Start taking 15 minutes a day for you... minimum!
Watch a great show (if you tivo a 30 minute show you can watch it in 15 min).
Start a great book.
Water and weed your garden.
Close your eyes and power nap.

Whatever it is, you need to connect with yourself. The fall is the time to get back into a comfortable routine and recharge.

Start your ANTI-AGING routine:

1. Book regular facials every 4-8 weeks. Not only for the cleansing but for the relaxation.
2. Start cleaning your face at night - WITHOUT FAIL and follow with products. The night is when your skin regenerates and replenishes. It is most important to get into a routine to treat your skin before bed.
3. Find a hobby, something just for you. Stimulation and Fulfillment are the BEST anti-agers.
4. Eat breakfast every morning and small meals throughout the day.
5. Exercise at something each day.
6. Smile at as many people as you can a day!

Remember, no matter how bad you think you look or feel - you are USUALLY wrong.
Cut yourself some slack and ENJOY! We are ALL BEAUTY-FULL!

GREAT FINDS for SPRING & SUMMER!

I have been searching for new products to compliment my new location and in my journeys I have come across some great MUST HAVES for your makeup bags!

Mascara - COVER GIRL - Lash Blast (best new mascara by far! and it keeps popping up in the celebrity m/u bags I am working with too!)

Lip gloss: LOREAL 6 hour infallible gloss - this really lasts until lunch! YOU will be amazed!

Longer Lashes: Extensions or lash primer! This works great by coating the natural lashes so when followed with mascara you are thicker and longer. Lash fibers are great also. Just remember to apply a coat of mascara FIRST and follow with fibers not at base but from 1/2 up last to tip. Then coat with second wipe of mascara and MAGIC!

SUNSCREEN: Go Green and Go organic! All natural sunscreen works better than chemicals and no reaction or clogged pores. Try mineral makeup as a final set and sunscreen protection in your makeup routine. Before finishing grab a mineral makeup with SPF and lightly brush all over your face and chest to protect and set!

BREAKOUTS: Best best for last minute breakouts is sulfur lotion... try my favorite BYE, BYE BLEMISH. As soon as you feel or see the red lump, place on 2-3 nights and it will go away! No woman should be without this product!

TEA for BEAUTY: Drink your way to great skin, rest and beauty! This tea is great!
Yummy ingredients, all natural and made to make you beautiful from the inside out. Great hot or cold! Try Sipping Beauty, if you love tea - you'll love this!

DAY 10: Love is in the air... why not love your Face & Body too

Problem: My skin is soooo dry I can't get enough moisture to stay. I feel like an itchy, dried out prune.

Solution: Stress and environmental elements are harsh on our skin and bodies - you need to nourish so it can re-vive itself.

I was just reading an article today about nutri-ceutials. They are extremely hot in Europe and Japan right now. They inject nutrients for the body and skin into the food we eat. Brilliant! There was an example of collagen infused health drink, a snack bar with skin firming elements and soup with vitamins infused. Such an interesting topic - I sure hope we get introduced to some of these products soon in the states.
I will be in Holland in two weeks and I plan on doing some searching.

Replenish your skin and body with what it is lacking and you will see immediate results. More moisture rich (not necessarily thicker) products on the skin and hair. Products that help hold in the moisture and allow the cells to maintain and replenish lost moistures. Drink lots of water - and a great multivitamin (even a pre-natal) is amazing. Your body and skin LOVE when you replenish and allow them to recharge (especially overnight!) So try it - using products regularly for a month you will see results!

Good Luck - and give yourself some LOVE!

DAY 9: New Year, New Look, New YOU!

So much change! But it's a New Year and you should look at change as GOOD! You have probably noticed the new site and new name - but it's still me - fun changes for 2008!

Problem: The most common question I receive from clients and people in passing is... "How do I get out of my beauty rut?
I feel stuck in my old makeup and skincare routine. Every time I try something new, I fall back into my comfort zone and do not give the new treatments a chance. What do you suggest?"

Solution: Try it! You might REALLY like it! I am in the process of looking at new product lines for the new year and I have found some GREAT products. But if I didn't take the time to try some new products and just stuck with my old stuff, I would never have found some great new products!!! My lash clients agree...

This year I will launch a line called BLEND essentials. The line will consist only of items you can add to your current skincare regimen and makeup bags to help you achieve what I refer to as "the flawless face." That is why I call it BLEND. These items can just "blend" into what you are already using and add some pizazzz! The most important technique when it comes to doing makeup on tv, film, special events or just everyday is BLENDING... again, see the connection.

So try a new eyeshadow color. Instead of using it alone... add it on top of what you currently wear. Try to smoke out the corners of your eyes or line the inside rim of your eyes with a kohl pencil. Try a new scrub for your face and actually use it 2-3 times a week. Try a new sunscreen (powdered sunscreen, aka - mineral m/u brushes are all the rage!). Take that wonderful smelling essential oil and wear it on your pulse points for a day or two - see who notices. And grab a great red lipstick and add it on top of your current neutral color. There are so many little touches you can add to spice up your look.

It is a great time to try new things. Sometimes we like them, sometimes we don't - but as my father always says, "You don't know until you try it, and then you just might like it!"

Feel free to email with any questions... I can help give you some suggestions of products to try and help you liven up your beauty rut!

I will have some great treasures to share with you soon... so stay tuned!

And 2008 will be a great year for us all!

DAY 5: Beauty Tip (A PIMPLE! oh no!)

PROBLEM: I just got a break out! Overnight and just in time for my party... interview... etc.

SOLUTION: Don't stress out! This is what might have caused it in the first place.
Ladies, we all know the joys of hormonal breakouts (they usually occur around the chin/mouth area) and lack of sleep, washing our face, or touching our faces with dirty hands (especially this time of year) are all reasons we wake up with "friends" on our faces.

We NEVER want a breakout - I don't care what anyone says, there is NEVER a good time for a pimple!
Two tricks... get a sulfur based lotion (usually pink with liquid) my favorite is BYE BYE BLEMISH - I SWEAR by it!
Apply this product at night before bed...don't squeeze or pick - I promise you will just make it worse.
This lotion applied to breakouts and almost soon to be breakouts - will literally suck the life out of the little guy and be gone before you know it.

But before you get rid of your friend, make sure NOT to put HIGHLIGHTER/Concealer on top - if too light it will only draw more attention to the fact you have a pimple. You want to CORRECT the REDNESS and conceal the discoloration (we can't control the texture or inflammation). So to do this, grab a concealer similar to your skintone with a olive/green undertone - this will neutralize the redness! Just put a bit on your finger and tap into your skin until it melts into your skin and the redness goes away! Walllllllllllllllllllah! All gone!

Best wishes!

Michelle