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Author Archives: Hilary Lowry

  1. How to do a DIY Facial at Home

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    Finding the money especially just after  Christmas for salon treatments may be a challenge as most of us have gone way over budget on the Christmas shopping, you can however still achieve a glowing skin with a DIY facial, not to mention the therapeutic effect of treating yourself to some well deserved ‘me time’

    Light some candles, put your favourite music on or ask Alexa to play chill out music. Shower or soak in a bath, the steam will assist to open the pores, ready for cleansing.

    Step 1: Apply a small amount of pre cleanse oil onto the palm of your hand and gently apply to the face, add a little water to work the oil into a milky consistency and using small circular movements over your face and neck with your fingertips to remove all your make-up. Remove using cotton wipes or a soft cloth. Pre cleansers are great to get dissolve the make up and remove most of it allowing the cleanser at step 2 to properly cleanse the skin.

    Our favourite pre cleansers are:

    Dermalogica pre Cleanse oil £38.50 for 150ml  or  the balm at £44.00 for 90ml

    Environ pre cleansing oil £19.95 for 100ml

    Step 2: Follow with a second cleanser suitable for your skin type to remove all traces of dirt and grime  to gently cleanse the skin. The same as pre cleansing use fingertips in small circular movements starting from your neck and work upwards towards forehead. Use warm water to rinse and pat dry with a soft towel.

    We love Environ  Mild Cleansing Lotion £32 for 200ml

    Step 3: After the double cleanse use a toner to remove any remaining debris from the skin. Apply a small amount onto a cotton  ball, dab and wipe gently over face. Toner will also close pores, restore the skins pH  balance .

    Environ Botanical Infused Moisturising Toner £34 for 200ml

    Step 4:  Once your skin is clean use an exfoliater to remove dead skin cells on the skins outer surface, if left unattended these cells build up leaving the skin dry with a dull grey tone. Exfoliation reinvigorates the skin making your face smoother and glowing.

    Dermalogica daily superfoliant £55 for 57g. Use a little amount and mix together with water to form a paste. Apply to the face and neck, avoiding the eye area and the lips. Rinse off with luke warm water and a soft face cloth.

    Step 5: For hydration, Environ clay masque micro exfoliates to refine the appearance of the skin without compromising the skins barrier function.

    Apply a thin layer after pre cleansing, massage into the face for 3-5 minutes and remove with appropriate cleanser. Can be left on for a minimum of 10 mins

    Environ Hydrating Clay Masque £29.95 for 50ml

    Environ Sebumasque is also a clay mask which helps to absorb surface oils and deeply cleanses the skin and may also be used as a micro-exfoliant to smooth and refine the texture of the skin.

    Step 6: Complete your facial regime with a serum, apply evenly over the face and allow 5 minutes before applying your favourite moisturer. Finish with a tiny amount of eye cream, dot under the eyes and pat gently, be careful not to get too close to the outer corners of the eye where the skin is very thin and delicate.

    Tri-Peptide Avance Moisturiser is a serum at £76 for 30ml

    Vita-Peptide Eye Gel at £49.95 for 10ml

    Skin Essentia AVST moisturiser retails at £4

    Put the kettle on and sit with your feet up after your home facial. Try treating yourself once a month and you will notice the difference in your skin. Whichever products you decide to use as long as you stick to the six steps above you skin will feel and look amazing.

     

     

     

  2. Beauty Tips for Teenage Skin

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    The beauty industry is awash with products that promise healthy glowing skin and how to get rid of spots in days. Unfortunately a lot of products contain alcohol which can strip the skin and deplete the skins protective barrier. The more you use these products the worst your skin becomes and breakouts occur.

    Top of the list for teenage skin complaints is spots, blackheads and oily skin. This is due to hormonal changes that lead to enlargement of oil glands, creating oily skin and large pores which clog and produce blackheads.

    Finding out which skin type and using the correct products to cleanse, tone, moisture and exfoliate is important. There are five different skin types.

    Skin type 1: normal skin

    Well balanced skin that is not too dry and not too oily. Has none or little imperfections, barely visible pores, no severe sensitivity and a radiant complexion.

     Tips:  Cleanse, Tone and moisturise using the correct skin care products for normal skin.

    Skin type 2: oily skin

    The face is shiny, pale and has large pores, with spots and blackheads appearing over the forehead, nose, chin, upper chest and back area. Do not squeeze spots as this will cause them to become inflamed and will result in scarring. If too much sebum is produced this can lead to acne and flare-ups. However acne is not caused by oily skin or poor hygiene.

     Tips: Use a foaming or gel cleanser for daily skin care. Cleanse twice a day using a cleanser for oily skin. Use a matte moisture to minimise oil and shine.

    Skin Type 3: Combination Skin

     This is a combination of normal and oily skin and is most common amongst teenagers. Large pores, oil and blemishes occur mainly in the T-zone area of the face, which is the forehead, nose and chin. Using a cleanser without oil can help control breakouts.

    Tips: Skin tends to get dehydrated, a light day and night cream can be used.

    Skin type 4: sensitive skin

    Can be tender, fine pores with delicate skin that is sensitive to environmental stress and influences. The skin can range from feeling tight, flaky, slightly red to allergic reactions.

    Tips: Use products for sensitive skin without any additives.

    Skin type 5: Dry skin

    Dry skin will feel tight, itchy, red and sometimes flaky. The pores are generally invisible.

    Adding water to dry skin is actually counterproductive to treating this skin condition.

    Tips:  A good quality gentle cleanser dedicated for dry skin and use a minimum amount of water. Again use a moisturiser for dry skin, Dermalogica Hydrating Lotion aids with dehydration, dryness and breakouts.

    Other tips that will help you look after your teenage skin.

    • Drink plenty of water
    • Get enough sleep
    • Remove make-up before going to bed
    • Wear broad spectrum suncream
    • Avoid prolonged sunbathing
    • Keep make-up brushes clean

    Once you have determined which skin type you are then the skin care routine should be as followed.

    • Cleansing

    Cleansers are used as part of a skin care regime to ensure the skin is prepped for active ingredients. Use a cleanser for your own skin type to clean your face thoroughly twice a day.

    If you wear make-up use a pre-cleanser to remove all traces of make-up and then follow with your normal cleanser, known as double cleansing.

    • Toning

    Once your face is clean, follow up with toning. Use a good quality mild toner without alcohol. Toners are used to enhance the penetration of other products. Removes traces of cleanser, dirt and pollutants and restores the skins protective barrier.

    • Moisturising

    After toning, apply a moisturiser. Moisturising keeps your skin healthy, soft, plumps the skin and prevents dryness. Protects from environmental attack and repairs any damage.

    • Exfoliate

    Exfoliate your face once a week with a gentle exfoliator, this helps you get rid of the dead skin cells and promotes cell regeneration.  Do not exfoliate if you have sensitive skin or acneic skin.

    Growing up can be hard enough as a teenager, without the added stress of acne. If you think you have this condition, visit your GP to discuss and receive treatment.

    Beauty Haven have a wealth of knowledge and offer advice on products and facials.  Our favourite products for treating problematic skin is the focus clarity range from Environ. Sebu-wash cleanser is one of our best selling products.Any concerns you may have we are only a phone call away, or pop into the salon and chat to our experienced therapists.

  3. Winter skin, how to beat dry skin & restore.

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    The winter months play havoc with our skin. The cold, wet, and windy weather combined with central heating is an assault to our skin which is the largest organ in the body and is our systems early warning signal that something is amiss.

    According to the British Skin Foundation a quarter of Doctor’s appointments relate to skin problems during the winter months. An interesting fact, and one that we would agree with, we have an influx of clients at this time of year with an array of skin concerns. Its not only harsh weather that can exacerbate skin conditions such as rosacea or environmental sensitivity but stress, lack of sleep and poor diet all play a part.

    ‘Protection is better than cure’. at this time of year the elements can prove harsh on the skin, using a nourishing moisturiser and an SPF will help, we often find clients don’t use an SPF at this time of year, just remember UV rays are getting through all the time, winter or summer. At night it may be worth using a richer night cream or adding a serum to your regime, the skin replenishes at night time so while you sleep the skin is getting a little extra help.

    Drinking water helps to keep your skin soft. It can be difficult to drink water in the cold months when a cup of coffee sounds so much more appealing but you can include herbal teas in your daily intake, which should be around 2 litres. Once you get into the habit it does get easier I promise. The skin functions much better when it is properly hydrated, you will find spots heal up more quickly and in fact all your systems work better as the body is constantly flushing out toxins.

    Fruit and vegetables contain between 80-98 percent water. Eating watermelon, strawberries, oranges, tomatoes, beets, carrots and celery are just a few of the choices to improve your hydration.

    Avoid foods with high levels of salt, like peanuts and crisps which dry the skin out and rob the body of water.

    Is your cleansing routine up to scratch?

     Shower gels and hand wash gels tend to dry the body, hands and cuticles out, using a hand cream after washing and a cuticle oil at night will restore the moisture.

    Body exfoliation using dry and wet brushing also helps with cellulite as well as removing dead skin cells. Using body lotions, oils and body butters afterwards to soften and smooth.

    Get professional advice to ensure you are using the right products for your skin, there are many products on the market that contain ingredients that will dry and aggravate the skin.

    Have a look at our best selling products for a dry/dehydrated skin

    • Environ Vita -Antioxidant moisturiser. Due to their high levels of active ingredients, Environ products are a consultation only skin care line and may only be purchased following consultation with us.  Vita-Antioxidant AVST Moisturiser 1 is the first vitamin A moisturiser in the Skin EssentiA Vitamin STEP-UP SYSTEM™.This cream contains a low concentration of vitamin A and vitamin C as well as antioxidants and botanicals. Vitamin A has many benefits, it keeps the skin firm and healthy, locks in moisture so is great for hydration and promotes cell renewal.
    • Environ Intensive Hydrating Serum contains a high concentration of Hyaluronic Acid (a known moisture magnet) and may help to leave the skin visibly smoother and plumper with more resilience.
    • Super Moisturiser contains a variety of dynamic moisturisers and emollients that may assist in enhancing the effects of the skin’s barrier function, as well as its natural moisturising factors. It results in skin that feels nourished and refreshed.
    • Hydrating Clay Masque. This luxurious, creamy clay masque assists in absorbing excess surface oils and gently polishes the skin’s surface, leaving it feeling smoother and looking more radiant and refined.

    Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you require any advise on the products we have mentioned above.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  4. Christmas Gift Ideas

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    Its that time of year again, it can be a challenge to decide on the perfect gift, its so easy to buy for children, lets face it, a letter to Santa and we have our list, a trip to the local toy shop and you are sorted but what about your other half, or your mum, dad sister etc ? Not so easy is it, there are only so many shirts or scarves you can buy !!! So ditch the slippers and mugs this year – our team at Beauty Haven have been busy sourcing some luxurious gifts, sure to earn you a few brownie points. Have a look at some of our favourites.

    Keltic candles start at £8.99 for the signature candle and £14.99 for the essential oil candles. They come in a wide range of fragrances and unlike some candles I have tried, these candles really do fill the room with their gorgeous aromas. These have been a big hit over the last couple of years and do sell out quickly. Its hard to go wrong with a beautifully scented candle, its the sort of present we love to get as we often won’t treat ourselves.

    We recently added the Thalgo range to our extensive range of products. The Thalgo body rituals are a real treat and the products not only smell devine but leave the skin feeling wonderful. The shower foam retails at £24 and the scrub from this range is £40.

    Environ Festive Skin Essentia skin kits retail at £157.95 – £163.95. These kits are gorgeous, they contain everything you need including cleanser, toner, moisturiser, eye cream, masque and 2 x travel size products to trial. I would love to find this under the Christmas tree, its beautifully packaged too. Stock is limited so if you would like to reserve one, please give us a call.

    Still unsure? A gift voucher may be the answer. We have an extensive range of treatments at Beauty Haven, from manicures to body massage, facials and body wraps we have something to suit everyone. You can have a look at all our treatments online at www.beautyhavenbelfast.com and of course we would be happy to take payment over the phone and post the voucher directly to you or the recipient to make life a little bit easier.

    In addition to all of this we have lots of stocking fillers including bath bombs, cuticle oils, lightbulb bubble bath, round robin lip balms to name but a few, so pop in over the festive season and have a look.

    And finally once the shopping is done, sit back and enjoy a glass or two of mulled wine and maybe even a mince pie or two.

  5. Say goodbye to waxing – Laser hair removal

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    How often have you considered swapping your regular waxing appointments in favour of a more permanent form of hair removal? Whilst both laser hair removal and waxing offer smooth skin, what are the pro’s and con’s?

    Waxing is a well known traditional treatment of hair removal and popular with most clients to rid the body and face of hair. Waxing does give a smooth finish and re-growth is usually between 4 to 8 weeks depending on what part of the body the hair is and what season we are in. For instance hair grows quicker during the summer and the hair on the face appears sooner than say underarms as they are normally covered up and not exposed as much as the face.

    The disadvantages to waxing is that it can be painful and ingrown hairs can be a nuisance if exfoliation is not maintained.

    Laser hair removal works to destroy the hair’s root down to the follicle using a pulsed light. Laser treatment is a stronger and more effective method of hair removal than waxing. In the long term laser will reduce hair growth anywhere on the body.

    Comparing the two forms of hair removal, initially laser treatments are a far more expensive outlay than waxing. To pay for a course works out cheaper, but you can often find pay as you go schemes. However, once you make the commitment to invest in yourself a course of 6 to 8 treatments will work out cheaper in the long run than waxing. Some areas respond quicker than others and it works for a wide range of skin types.

    Laser hair removal has become popular amongst many celebrities who have lots of positive feedback regarding laser hair removal and this is a testimonial in itself.

    If you are still trying to make your mind up, the success rate and reviews we have received this year alone from a large number of our client base who have converted to laser and are delighted with the results that laser hair removal brings are a true testimonial of the treatment. All of these clients are referring to laser hair removal treatments they have had:

     

    • Margaret – I have been using Beauty Haven for around 8 years and have introduced my daughter and friends to their service. Every visit is a pleasure from reception to every staff member, excellent example of perfect customer service. I am happy to offer a testimonial to anyone who needs one.
    • Angela – Its lovely, clean, warm and friendly, can’t think of anything to improve services.
    • Joan – Also very pleasant experience at Beauty Haven, Very professional, hygienic and friendly.
    • Jane – Very happy with all services, thank you.
    • Dione – Great, friendly professional service every time.
    • Martha – Had my first laser hair removal service with Deirdre and she was amazing. She made it very easy. Confident, friendly and professional 5* service. Can’t wait to come back for the rest of my sessions. Thank you.
    • Gabriella – very professional delivered service 5 out 5.
    • Nicola 5 out of 5
    • Jessica 5 out of 5
    • Sheena – Easy to book treatments, feel comfortable in all treatments/Recommend the salon all the time.
    • Hilda – Excellent staff and treatments. Love coming here xxx
    • Jennifer – A* salon and staff.
    • Maureen – Salon excellent and very pleased all round.
    • Gary – Really happy Beauty Haven was recommended to me. Staff are always friendly & professional & the IPL has really helped my skin. I’ll be a customer for a long time.
    • Oonagh – 5*

    Whilst laser is  a long term option it is important to remember that it is best suited to individuals who have dark hair, so far only electrolysis will work on fair, red, grey or white hair. Permanent hair removal/reduction can be life changing for some individuals, excessive hair growth, especially on the face can lead to self esteem issues. If you have concerns it is worth a visit to your GP, you may have polycystic ovaries which can lead to excessive hair growth which is often associated with hormonal imbalance or perhaps even a side effect of a medication. Once you have spoken to your GP, seek the advice of a reputable aesthetician, there are many options available to you so don’t despair. A problem shared is a problem halved!

     

  6. Removal of Pigmentation & Sun Spots

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    Pigmentation & sun spots are a common problem, especially amongst those of us who have done our fair share of sunbathing over the years.

    Pigmentation, sun spots, liver spots, age spots or dark spots, call them what you will, are the darkening effects on the skin that can occur on the face, hands, décolletage and shoulders due to over exposure to the sun. UVA stimulates the cells called Melanocytes that product Melanin. It is a common condition where there is too much melanin – the pigment in the skin, and forms dark areas on the skin. These dark spots could take between 10-20 years to develop.

    What causes pigmentation & sun spots?

    The main cause is sun damage, but hormonal factors play a part along with conditions like acne, injury to the skin and even surgery can leave their mark.

    Can you prevent them from appearing?

    Using a UVA & UVB broad spectrum sunscreen protection will stop any further damage to the skin. Wearing protective clothing will also shade from the sun.

    Is there any way to remove pigmentation marks?

    Our skin ages due to sun exposure and decreased production of collagen.Laser treatments of sun damaged skin (Skin Rejuvenation or Photorejuvenation) help you keep a younger and fresher look.

    So how does a laser skin rejuvenation treatment work?

    Short bursts of light are directed at the skin and the system filters light to ensure the wavelengths used are absorbed by haemoglobin in the fine blood vessels and melanin in the pigmentation and age spots. The light in other words is attracted in this case to the age spot  and draws it to the surface, initially you should see a darkening of the area treated, this is a good sign that the treatment has been successful and will fade within 48 hours.

    Have a look at some of our tried and tested treatments and products to reduce or remove pigmentation …….

    FACIAL TREAMENTS 

    A full face photo rejuvenation treatment takes less than 45 minutes and will improve if not remove pigmentation. A course of three are usually recommended to achieve the full effect, depending on the amount of pigmentation, but you will notice an improvement after one session.

    * Beauty Haven will price match a skin rejuvenation treatment if you find it cheaper elsewhere. Please ask for details, the laser must be comparable and based in Northern Ireland.

    Environ Intense C Peel is an advanced Peel and only available as a treatment after being on the set-up system AVST 3 moisturiser.

    The benefits of this facial are many,  L-Ascrobic Acid (water soluble Vitamin C) and Salicylic Acid targets scarring and textural problems giving smooth and refined skin, photo-aged skin, deep lines/wrinkles and pigmentation are also improved.

    The true benefits of this Peel lies in the Vitamin C content that stimulates collagen, inhibits melanin formation and strengthens capillaries.

    The Mesoestetic facial peel is a deep exfoliation treatment that  brightens and lightens pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. May need multi sessions depending on how dark the pigmentation is and the length of time the pigmentation has been visable.

    PRODUCTS

    Environ Vita-Antioxidiant AVST Vitamin A moisturizer set-up system 1-5 is a day and night moisturizer. This normalises melanin, stimulates cell turnover which aids with pigmentation. The set up system begins with AVST 1 introducing Vitamin A in small doses to allow the skin to get used to Vitamin A, once the skin is acceptable move up through the steps slowly.

    Vitamin A normalizes and repairs skin cells while protecting from environmental and UV damage. It also stimulates collagen and elastin to combat the signs of ageing to help improve lines and wrinkles.

    Priced from £42 – £48

    Environ Clarifying Lotion is a light, non-oily lotion formulated to supply skin with essential ingredients. Promoting skin growth and cell renewal to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, detoxes pigmentation by pulling it up to the surface. This lotion can be used alongside the laser system.

    Priced at £35 for 100ml

    Environ C-Boost contains a rich dose of vitamin C to help improve the appearance of sun damaged skin. Inhibits tyrosinase to assist in the treatment of hyper-pigmentation. Apply under vitamin A moisturiser morning and night.

    Priced at £35 for 25ml.

    RAD SPF 15 one of the best sellers with a 3 way defence – titanium dioxide, chemical SPF and Antioxidant.

    A face and body sunscreen with a combination of filters and reflectors to provide a SPF15 with a low chemical content and high performance protection.

    Priced at £19.95 for 100ml

    Whatever concerns or questions you may have regarding the removal of pigmentation & sun spots please feel free to discuss further with our consultants at Beauty Haven.

     

     

     

     

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