BC Bright!

"I had a client I haven't seen in awhile come over yesterday and I could feel her tension when we washed her face. she was embarrassed to be without make-up and very sensitive about it. Acne plus, lots of melasma. She's been to multiple dermatologists and spent lots of money to try and help her skin. SO, we did the skin care, chemical peel, microderm abrasion, followed by the BC Bright set. These are the pics.... before, immediately after, then about 45min. after the treatment. Later she texted me stating that she thought it was still brightening after several hours! Notice the smile too??? SOOOO happy that I could do that for her! ( I might have been more excited!)" She will without a doubt start the skinlogics system as soon as the order arrives! Way to take control of your skin care! I can't wait to see the results in a month!

Stay BEAUTIful,

Ashlee Brooks : Your BeautiControl Skin Care & Spa Expert!

shop my store // BeautiAshlee@gmail.com //  facebook + twitter + pinterest

Dealing with Problematic Hormonal and Cystic Acne

Dealing with Problematic Hormonal and Cystic Acne

One of the most frequently asked questions is regarding how to address clients who suffer from problematic hormonal or cystic acne. This blog will help you understand the cause of acne and give you the recommended BeautiControl regimen.

Normally, in a situation where I have a client that has mild or periodic acne breakouts, I would recommend that they take the skin s.p.a. quiz and use the recommended BC Spa Facial regimen; however, for problematic hormonal or cystic acne, it is best to use a regimen designed specifically for acne control.  The trick to ridding the skin of acne is consistency and patience…neither of which come naturally for most people; however, is crucial if you want to get the condition under control.  This is not a quick fix solution…this is a skin-altering regimen that will help the skin to act more normally.

Both teen and adult acne are caused by hormonal fluctuations.  Women are most prone to hormonal acne breakouts in their teen years, during pregnancy, during their monthly cycle, when beginning, altering or discontinuing birth control medications, and during the menopause years.  Inconsistencies in hormonal production will cause the sebaceous glands (oil glands) to overreact.  This oil congests the pore, forming a plug which attracts and harbors bacteria.  The gland continues to produce oil, and because it can't be released, swelling and inflammation result in the form of an acne blemish. 

I guess you are wondering why I told you all of that?  Well, when you understand the cause of the problem, you can understand the rationale of the solution.  An effective regimen would include products that clean the pores, reduce oil production, extract any residue in the pore and discourage bacteria.

One thing that I learned quickly in this business is that everyone has "sensitive skin".  In reality, few people have truly sensitive skin…in most cases they are either using the wrong products, don’t understand what the products are intended to do or have not given the skin time to adjust.  When dealing with acne, unless someone indicates that they have diagnosed skin condition, rosacea, or some other condition that would result in overly sensitive skin, I would recommend the products that we know are going to be effective first, then make modifications as necessary.

AM/PM:

• Skinlogics Clear Cleansing Gel - deep cleanses without stripping oil and has a form of salicylic acid (which kills bacteria and reduces acne inflammation) in a form that provides an invisible film on the skin when the cleanser is rinsed away to help offer all day benefits.
• Skinlogics Clear Scrub/Mask - used as a mask 3 times a week, either AM or PM  (contains sulfur to kill bacteria, and clay to extract impurities from the pores)
• Skinlogics Clear Tonic* - This is the magic bullet in the line.  This product has an OTC drug level of salicylic acid and a unique mineral powder.  Shake the product, apply to a tonic pad and swipe on skin.  The mineral powder, saturated with the salicylic acid both kills bacteria and absorbs oil.
• Skinlogics Clear Mattifying Moisturizer - this is an oil absorbing moisturizer that contains micro-sponges that attract oil and deliver a matte finish to the skin.

Use this regimen (and only these products) for 4 to 6 weeks.  The skin renews itself in the years under 30 about every 30 days.  The multi-layers of the skin's epidermis trap toxins and residue and it can take the full 30 days to clear the skin and purge the toxins. 

*The Skinlogics Clear Tonic is an alcohol-based product.  Alcohol is a drying agent and is intended to dry the acne and reduce oil production in the skin.  You will run across those who object to using a product containing alcohol, because it is drying…P.S. it is supposed to be, that’s why we use it in this formula.   If the skin becomes dry or becomes irritated, reduce to once a day.  If that is not enough, every other day, until the skin adjusts.

Hormonal acne, in both teens and adults, can be stubborn, and require additional treatment products.  There are 2 other products that I would recommend for both teens and adults:

• Cell Block C Multivitamin Capsules - this product contains a super high concentration of pure vitamin C and vitamin E (both super anti-oxidants) in silicone based delivery system.  These ingredients both help destroy oxidation and bacteria, help reduce inflammation, speed healing, while the silicone base absorbs oil.  Add this product to the AM regimen after tonic and  prior to applying the moisturizer.
• Regeneration Overnight - containing retinol (a vitamin A derivative) which will help increase the rate that the skin renews itself, helping the skin purge toxins more quickly, regulating oil production and helping to reduce the heal time of the blemishes.  This is a VERY aggressive product.  The product is VERY likely to cause initial redness, perhaps topical dryness until the skin adjusts and likely some flaking…this is a VERY good thing, it means the product is working.  If the symptoms become uncomfortable, simple reduce the use of this product to every other night or two until the skin adjusts.  Add this product to the PM regimen, after tonic and before moisturizer.

There is not one clear-cut solution for everyone when dealing with acne, particularly hormonal cystic acne and there are times when medical intervention is necessary.  Antibiotics or other medications may be prescribed to supplement a good skin care regimen.  This regimen, however, is one that I have found to be most effective.  It is important not to use too many products on the skin, and once you normalize the skin and clear the acne, it is important not to add more than one product at a time to the skin care regimen. Anyone who suffers from problematic acne needs to understand that they have a problematic condition and the solution may take some trial and error to find the right regimen to perfectly fit what skin requires. 

This is not going to be an overnight solution.  It is possible that you will see an increase in acne production after you begin this regimen.  This is part of the skin purging process. As much as you don’t want to hear it…the more severe the acne, the more likely the chances are that you will see an increase in breakouts before the condition improves.  It is best to avoid products, during the initial stages of starting a new skin care regimen for acne control, that purge the toxins too quickly, unless an increase in acne breakouts is not a concern.  Products like Microdermabrasion, Resurfacing Peel and BC Spa Detoxifying Clay Masque are all incredibly potent and effective products, but they WILL pull deeply rooted debris to the surface very quickly and most likely will cause a rapid increase of blemishes initially. I also recommend avoiding daily use of products that contain sun screen if you are prone to problematic acne.  Ingredients that deliver and SPF have a tendency to clog pores and aggravate acne blemish formation.  IF you absolutely HAVE to wear make-up, ALWAYS use a good non-oily/spf PRIMER!

In summary, when dealing with acne prone skin:

• Keep the regimen simple
• Consistent and persistent use is crucial
• Use for a minimum of 4 to 6 weeks before changing or discontinuing
• Less is more – too many products can be TOO MANY PRODUCTS!
• It is possible that you will see an increase in breakouts in the initial stages, don't be alarmed, that means it is doing its job of reaching deep down in your pores and pulling out all that problematic source!

Stay BEAUTIful,

Ashlee Brooks : Your BeautiControl Skin Care & Spa Expert!

shop my store // BeautiAshlee@gmail.com //  facebook + twitter + pinterest

Truth about BOTOX and BC Instant Face Lift Extreme!!

Did you know?

Botox is not effective at fighting those wrinkles around the mouth or wrinkles caused by sun damage. Additionally it won't work for everyone in the same way. Its usefulness depends on personal factors like skin thickness, type, and whether you have truly advanced wrinkling issues. There are some Botox side effects to be aware of as well.

Botox is Expensive!  EVEN at $10/unit 1 area is 20 units ($200) vs. 3 areas at 60 units ($600)  This is the cheapest I could find in Richmond, VA.  Side NOTE: Average cost of a Chemical Peel in Richmond, VA is $150+  Microdermabrasion $100+  At minimum total cost of treatment is $450-$850 In Richmond, VA

Botox Negative Side Effects.

Just like any other medical procedure, Botox is not without its share of side effects. Not everyone will experience side effects; the vast majority of patients feel comfortable enough to return to work, for example, immediately following the procedure. However, some side effects may develop over time and manifest themselves several days later, while others may have a more immediate impact. The most common side effects of Botox in patients with frown lines include:

• Bruising at treatment site
• Flu-like symptoms
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Respiratory infection
• Droopy eyelids

Less common reactions, occurring in fewer than 3% of patients, include:

• Facial pain
• Muscle weakness
• Erythema (redness at treatment site)

In extremely rare instances, the paralyzing effect may spread to other muscles in the area of the treatment site. When this occurs, these neighboring muscles may become temporarily paralyzed, which in turn may lead to a form of facial paralysis (such as drooping eyelids).

NOW, BeautiControl offers the SAME benefits at a fraction of the price AND you don't have to worry about those negative side effects!  Seems like a great deal to me!  Here is an introduction video...but I will break down the process and prices for you too!

Break It Down!!

Step1 (COST $150+ in A Richmond Spa)
BC Spa Resurface
Multi-Acid Resurfacing Peel ($50)

This clinical strength chemical exfoliator is packed with advanced multi-acids that loosen the “glue” holding dead skin cells together. By loosening this glue, it is much easier to remove these cells and let your healthier skin shine through.

Directions: Swipe pad over your face using semi-circular strokes to rapidly remove dead surface cells and help increase rate of exfoliation. Avoid contact with eyes and lips. Leave on for a minimum of 10 minutes, but do not exceed 20 minutes.

Step 2 (COST $100+ in A Richmond Spa)
BC Spa Resurface Microderm Abrasion
For Face ($56) Facial Buffer ($16)

This physical exfoliator is your alternative to expensive microdermabrasion treatments performed in a medical spa or doctor’s office. It removes the surface layer of dead skin cells that have been loosened by the Multi-Acid Resurfacing Peel. It’s a wonderful way to truly reveal the younger, vibrant skin hiding behind dead cells.  Directions: Starting with your chin and moving to cheeks and forehead use a circular scrubbing motion—preferably with the buffer—to gently sweep a small amount of creme in small, upward motions for one to three minutes. Avoid your eye area. The Microderm Abrasion will remove the surface cells that have been loosened. Rinse your face with a warm, wet cloth.

Step 3
Regeneration Tight, Firm & Fill
Eye Firming Serum ($44)

Once you’ve exfoliated your face you need to apply our fabulous anti-aging products. Start around your eyes with Regeneration Tight, Firm & Fill Eye Firming Serum. The patent-pending, triple action peptide blend immediately tightens and firms your skin. The revolutionary Hyaluronic technology will firm the skin around your eyes, while it plumps and fills the wrinkles.

Directions: Apply to the area above the crease of your eyelid and below your brow and blend onto your eyelid, as well as to the under-eye area and around the contours of your eye.

Step 4
Regeneration Tight, Firm & Fill
Face Creme ($52)

Apply our fabulous anti-aging products and watch them work their magic. Your face will immediately feel soothed by Regeneration Tight, Firm & Fill Face Creme, as the patent-pending, triple action peptide blend immediately tightens and firms your skin. The revolutionary Hyaluronic technology will also plump and fill wrinkles to diminish their appearance.

-OR-

Regeneration Tight, Firm & Fill
Extreme Tri-Peptide Complex ($95)

Apply a small amount to your face to help relax the appearance of deeper wrinkles on face and stimulate skin to begin restoring in as little as 30 minutes.

Step 5
Regeneration Tight, Firm & Fill
Extreme Lip Treatment ($26)

Reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles on and around the lips, replenishes moisture and visibly plumps lips.

$244-$287 Depending on which set you prefer and this is for 20+ treatments!!  That's MORE money in your pocket for a healthier and in my opinion BETTER alternative to Botox.  And below is an ACTUAL (no photoshop) results that you can see.  It works on the ENTIRE face!!

SAVE some money and buy it in sets!!

For the Month of August, the Instant Face Lift Set is 25% off.  Regularly $218 is now $163.50!!  This set includes:

BC Spa Resurface
Multi-Acid Resurfacing Peel ($50)

BC Spa Resurface Microderm Abrasion
For Face ($56) Facial Buffer ($16)

Regeneration Tight, Firm & Fill
Eye Firming Serum ($44)

Regeneration Tight, Firm & Fill
Face Creme ($52)

-ADD-

Regeneration Tight, Firm & Fill
Extreme Tri-Peptide Complex ($95)

Regeneration Tight, Firm & Fill
Extreme Lip Treatment ($26) 

For the Month of August, you can receive the entire extreme system for just $284.50 You will get both step 4

Regeneration Tight, Firm & Fill
Face Creme ($52)

Regeneration Tight, Firm & Fill
Extreme Tri-Peptide Complex ($95)

Buy today and see these results in as little as 20 minutes!

OR Host a spa escape for you and 4-5 of your closest friends and work towards getting the Instant Face Lift set for FREE!!  Ask me how by emailing me today!!  Schedule your personal 1on1 consultation and try before you buy!

Stay BEAUTIful,

Ashlee Brooks : Your BeautiControl Skin Care & Spa Expert!

shop my store // BeautiAshlee@gmail.com //  facebook + twitter + pinterest

INSTANT Face Lift!!!!

If you are interested in getting these results (men/women) ask me how!?! These are REAL pictures and REAL results! In as little as 20 minutes! You can get the system NOW for $163.50 and shave 10 years off in just 4 easy and fun steps! Message me for more information at beautiAshlee@gmail.com

HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT!!

Many of you know I have been struggling for quite some time to get female attention into my massage practice!  Well, it came down to this month and struggling to get new clients period that I decided for a long term change!  I have been introduced long ago to the beauty of BeautiControl products and was tempted with the fact to join as a consultant...well, almost a year later I have become BeautiControl's newest spa expert!  

I have tried almost every brand of beauty products from wal-mart to sephora and everything in between with little to no success!  I mean, how is it possible that a girl of my size has stretch marks? <-It happens, genetics sometimes gets the best of all of us (thanks mom!) <-In actuality...I know that the majority of my genetics come from my fathers side, so I guess I should be saying "THANKS DAD!"

ANYWAY to get to the point, I don't have to sell the products to you, because they will sell themselves once you get some hands on time with them!  What I do have to sell to you is help getting SPA escapes!  You will find a TON of information on my facebook in the coming days as I learn more and more about the company...right now, I'm only familiar with the products that I use myself.  And yes, I use them day in and out...In the past year I have had exactly 3 blemishes on my face...THREE!!  HUGE difference from what I experienced before!  I will attach a few photos of results from some spa directors as well as highlight some products I think you will be interested in.  

So you may ask yourself, what is a spa escape?  Well...It's you and your closest girlfriends that meet together in the comfort of your own home, OR my office...so you don't have to clean for everyone!  You will receive spa quality treatments for FREE...get pampered for an hour or 2 and you get the awesome advantage of having ME lead you in your relaxation!  You will get unique massage techniques from someone who has worked in a spa and been in the spa atmosphere for 7 years!  I can guarantee you that you will NEVER find another consultant that will be able to deliver to you what I can!  AND as a host, you earn rewards and free product as well as a pre 1on1 consultation! <-this is to get you excited about what's to come!

Now a little about BeautiControl as a business...BeautiControl is the industry leader in anti-aging treatments, customized scientific prescription-strength facial products and is the #1 Premier Spa brand in North America!  Not #2, but #1!!  And I know from experience the quality is unmatched and a fraction of the cost of 1 treatment in a spa...and you get a whole bottle!  Several treatments...not just 1!  And your skin will be awesome!  BeautiControl does not test on animals or buy ingredients from companies that do, no animals are harmed in the process!  The majority of the products are paraben free and made for ALL skin types!  We test your skin and give you the BEST matched skin care products to choose from!  AND THEY WORK!!

I'm now going to highlight some of the greatest, latest, and my personal favorite products for you to get an idea!  Don't forget to check out some of the attached pictures...and forward this email to anyone you know that would be interested in hosting a spa!  Remember, it's free!  You can do a employee appreciation spa at work (after hours or during!), Mommy and Me/Baby Shower Spa, Bridal Party Spa?  Just girls night in Spa?  Pajama Party Spa?  You name it, you get creative, I'll do the work!

To start I am going to introduce you to the 25% off Instant Face Lift Set!!! Regularly $218 now $163.50!! And I'm going to attach some results photos.  Let's face it...even 20 somethings are nervous about sagging skin!  It's scary to just about everyone...NOT ANYMORE!!  Just look at the TFF results pictures!  It has INSTANT in it's name for a reason!  Goodbye botox...we can't afford you anyway!  Hello Instant Face Lift!  shhh...don't tell anyone that I use this on occasion!

Second I want to introduce to you a new product that smells and feels incredible!  And that's an understantment...take a look at this video http://youtu.be/

7qbixtKA_lw You're going to want one in each and every bathroom!

BeautiControl has also launched Spa Baby!!!  Great baby shower gift...actually, awesome!!  I may not have a baby of my own...but this smelt so amazing that I had to get one just for the smell!  I just got the cologne...and I use it on my smelly pups...now they smell fantastic...I've even used the no wash on their dirty paws and have replaced my purse anti-bacterial!  http://youtu.be/JmdivIqmu9k <-check out the video!

Next, i have already ordered this and I'm so excited to try it out...BC Spa Bright products!  Reduces the signs of age spot, sun damage, acne marks and discoloration thanks to specially formulated brightening ingredients like encapsulated resveratrol, Symwhite®, Chromabright™, white mulberry and licorice extracts! it instantly brightens & evens out your skin tone!!  I've only heard reviews from the test group on this...but the results they had were amazing!!  I'm excited to see if I can finally get rid of my uneven skin tone! http://youtu.be/

IV8953Ma_xQ

Last but certainly not least I would like to introduce you to Skinlogics Clear for Acne-prone skin.  I am posting a picture of one of my directors results after just 3 weeks of using this system.  She has PCOS which means she has adult acne that she tried absolutely everything!  I personally have experience with this line, but I never had truly bad skin...just breakouts when that time of the month came around, but in the past year of using this line...I have had only 3 blemishes on my face...THREE...and they were hardly noticeable and gone in just over a day (sometimes 2).  The Skinlogics® Clear daily facial contains BeautiControl's exclusive RestoraClear&TM; complex and is suitable for women of any age who experience acne. From teen years to post-menopause, these products will banish blemishes and help promote clear, healthy skin.  You can view all the active ingredients in every product by clicking shop my store below!

I'm so excited to be sharing this with all of you!!  Please forward to others who have not already seen it...and shop the store, there are many more products I haven't exposed yet!

--

Stay BEAUTIful,

Ashlee Brooks : Your BeautiControl Skin Care & Spa Expert!

shop my store // 804.694.7512 //  face

book + twitter + pinterest

book your BC SPA today and earn FREE in-home treatments!

This is a picture from my very first BeautiControl meeting!!  I had so much fun and can't wait for the next one!  Everyone should take time to relax...you can find 1 hour in your day to have me come over for a 1on1!  Get an absolutely FREE skin sensor testing!  Valued at $400!

Should I use heat or Ice for that injury?

Should you use heat or ice for that backache, sprain, or other injury?

SELF CARE — BY STEVE IBACH

Both heat and ice have been used for thousands of years to treat injury and pain, but how do you know which one to use? Read this brief article to gain a general understanding of the injury process in your body, and then follow a few simple rules and you can make the right decision each time.

TWO TYPES OF INJURIES

There are two basic types of injuries; acute and chronic. An acute injury is a sudden injury that has just occurred such as a sprained ankle. You will usually know when have sustained an acute injury. A chronic injury is a more “long term” injury. It can be a former acute injury that is healing, or a long term aching back. These two types of injuries are treated differently.

Acute Injury – Use Ice!

If you injured yourself during the last 48 hours, or if your injury shows any signs of redness or swelling (inflammation) use ice on your injury. Ice reduces swelling by constricting your blood vessels and slowing the leakage of fluids into your tissues from the injury. Reducing swelling helps the injury heal quicker and reduces the amount of pain you experience. Ice should also be used on chronic injuries that have been inflamed or “reinjured”. For example, let’s say you are recovering from a sprained ankle that occurred several weeks ago (therefore, it is now in the chronic stage). Then today you decide to hike to Humphreys Peak (highest point in Arizona) and your ankle is killing you when you finish. Well, the chances are that you reinjured your ankle to some degree and now require ice. Anytime your chronic pain flares up after exercise, ice is the appropriate treatment. As a rule, it never hurts to put ice on an injury or area of pain, as long as you follow the correct procedures (shown later in this article).

When to use Ice

• Immediately after an injury (sooner the better)
• The first 48 hours after an injury
• Anytime there is swelling or other signs of inflammation
• After exercise or exertion when you experience a flare up of a chronic pain

When Not to Use Ice

• Never use on a sore muscle before exercise. This will increase the risk of injury. 
• Never use ice while sleeping.

Does and Don’ts of Applying Ice

• Don’t put ice directly against your skin unless you are performing an ice massage. An ice massage requires you to move the ice around on the affected area continuously (Ice Massage works great…Just use something to hold the ice so your hand does not freeze). Never leave an ice pack, etc. directly on your skin. Always place a towel or other material between the ice and your skin.
• Don’t use ice for more than 20 minutes at one time (less time on a smaller muscle or on small children). Longer usage can cause frostbite resulting in severe damage to your tissues.
• Do allow your body to warm up to room temperature naturally after applying ice (warm up takes 45 minutes to an hour).
• Do apply ice several times during the day as long as you let the area warm up in between uses.
• Don’t apply ice before exercise! This will increase your risk of injury.
• Do use a container (like a zip lock bag) that will contour to your body. A small amount of water can be placed in a zip lock bag with the ice to help this.

When using ice you may experience the following sensations, which are very natural (C.B.A.N.):

C – Cold!

B – Burning

A – Aching

N – Numbness – When you are numb you are done and can take the ice off! (Don’t exceed 20 minutes even if you don’t feel numb).

Chronic Injury – Use Heat (usually!)

Chronic pain or long term injuries usually respond best to heat. Stiff, sore muscles or joint pain is the ideal case to use heat. Heat dilates your blood vessels and increases circulation bringing blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the affected area. Basic massage therapy works the same way. One of the main goals when massaging sore muscles is to increase circulation to the muscle. Heat helps relax your muscles, increases flexibility, and reduces pain and soreness.

Once your formerly acute injury begins to heal and the inflammation goes down, you should start using heat (about 48 – 72 hours after the injury). For that sore back with no apparent acute injury that caused it, heat is also great.

Unlike ice, which can be used almost anytime safely, using heat at the wrong time will make your situation worse. Never use heat when swelling, redness, or other signs of inflammation are present. Heat will increase your inflammation, irritating your injury.

When to use Heat

• On sore muscles and joints that have not be recently injured
• On stiff and inflexible muscles (some causes of pain and inflexibility are related to chronic contractions or trigger points that can only be relieved by Medical Massage Therapy.
• Before exercise on muscles that chronically cause you problems (this is another way to warm up first).

When Not to Use Heat

• Never use when an injury has just occurred
• Never use when there are signs of inflammation (swelling, redness, heat).
• Never use on someone with sensory problems (they could be burned inadvertently)
• Never use heat while sleeping

Does and Don’ts of Applying Heat

• Do put the heat directly against your skin. Hot towels and heating pads work great.
• Do use heat for as long as you wish, as many times as you wish.
• Don’t burn yourself! The temperature of the heat can be as hot as you can take it without burning yourself. Be careful, especially with children and the elderly or those with reduced sensitivity to pain.
• Don’t apply heat after exercise. Use ice after and heat before exercise.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION – The above information is general advice only. If you are injured you should seek specific advice from a doctor or other medical professional.

Massage is monkey business?

Photo Credit: Romain Matteï Photography

Is massage monkey business?  Well, this picture makes it seem as though it is!  However, finding an excellent professional is much like finding a monkey outside of the zoo in the middle of Richmond, this is one lucky cat!!