Hilary Lowry, Author at Beauty Haven Belfast Online

Author Archives: Hilary Lowry

Deciding on a Harley Body wrap for that summer body
June 17, 2015 7:20 pm Comments Off on Deciding on a Harley Body wrap for that summer body
What could be more exciting than being told you can lose weight and get rid of your cellulite while lying down and doing absolutely nothing?

Perhaps George Clooney saying he wants you to have his children, I suppose. Let’s face it, the latter is an unlikely scenario. However, the first offer is something which is now being advertised in beauty salons up and down the country offering to get rid of your unsightly bumps and send you back into the world a size smaller.

But do inch- shifting, cellulite busting body wraps work?

Ok lets put to bed a few myths, an inch loss body wrap is a temporary measure, you will most definitely see results and lose inches so that you will fit into that little black dress or hit the beach feeling a little slimmer but unless you are going to take a course of wraps ( recommended twice a week) watch your calorie intake and do some exercise, in other words change your lifestyle, then a wrap is not a miracle cure, if it was I would now be on my luxury yacht in the Caribbean spending my millions.

How it works.

Bandages are soaked in a solution of aloe vera, vitamins and minerals. When you arrive, after filling out a consultation form you will be measured prior to being wrapped. This is followed up with dry body brushing which opens the pores and allows the solution to penetrate into the deeper tissues. You will then be wrapped in warm bandages (which have been soaked in the Harley solution for over two hours.) Once wrapped you will be asked to put on a sauna suit and then covered in blankets and left to relax. The bandages stay on for an hour, the warm bandages open the pores and allow the solution to penetrate into the dermal layer. Whilst some clients like to sleep, others prefer to read or even have another treatment such as a facial carried out.

The formula helps to dislodge toxic build up trapped in fat-prone areas, which is then flushed out into the lymph system.

Once these tissues have broken down they are flushed out through the body’s natural waste system, so the body is highly detoxified and cleansed.

Pro’s

The detox ingredients used will take away the feeling of heaviness and lethargy.

The skin will feel smoother and hydrated.

You will look and feel slimmer having lost a few inches, this effect can last up to 72 hours.

If you book into a nice salon you will feel pampered and relaxed, a little time out is a great tonic for anyone.

Improved energy levels.

Con’s

These salon treatments can be expensive especially when a course is recommended. £55 per single session or £275 for a course of six at Beauty Haven.

A temporary fix.

As long as you are aware of the pro’s and con’s you can make an informed decision. Our advice is to check out the salon thoroughly using reviews, Facebook and other social media platforms or go on a recommendation. Word of mouth means a lot these days.
How laser hair removal can help bring back your confidence!
June 10, 2015 9:09 am Comments Off on How laser hair removal can help bring back your confidence!
Many of us have problems with our confidence when it comes to hair growth. Growing hair in places where you have never had it before or developing thickening body hair is an incredibly sensitive topic because our perspective can vary widely, whilst one person may want to get rid of hair as quickly and permanently as possible, another may be happy to let the hair grow as a natural expression of themselves. The ‘au naturale’ look may have been popular many years ago but these days we would raise an eyebrow at excessive armpit,leg or bikini hair. Today’s style, it’s much more common to have no hair anywhere except on your head. Unfortunately most women at some point have experienced the surprise of hair showing up where they would rather not have it; often certain key stages in life where hormonal levels fluctuate are often the cause of unwanted hair.

Waxing and shaving can help remove that unwanted hair, although often this becomes a daily ritual and can frequently leave us with ingrown hairs or razor bumps. Ingrown hairs and razor rash are a common problem and can also cause self esteem issues.

Ellipse IPL Hair Removal has come up with a treatment which will help bring back your confidence. There will be no more using tweezers, shaving everyday or going to painful waxing appointments. The treatment works best on fair skinned individuals with dark hair. Unfortunately at this stage if you have blonde, grey or white hair electrolysis is still the best option although a much slower alternative to laser.

The laser hair removal requires at least 4-6 sessions. These treatments will destroy the hair which will result in a more permanent reduction and will reduce possibilities of the hairs becoming ingrown. The treatment is known as permanent hair reduction as opposed to permanent hair removal as we have no way of controlling future hormonal fluctuations. You will however see a massive reduction, (between 85-95%) and will feel much more confident.

*The treatment protocol requires you to have a patch test prior to first treatment as there may be contraindications to treatment such as certain medications, tanned skin etc. A skin test will be preformed and providing you have no reactions after 48 hours you can proceed with the treatment. You are advised to avoid sun exposure 30 days before and after treatment.

Images of unwanted hair:

There are several ways to remove unwanted hair, shaving, plucking, waxing, depilatory creams, and threading but for a more permanent solution seek out a reputable clinic and opt for laser/IPL or electrolysis. It is a requirement in Northern Ireland to Be registered with the RQIA (Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority) those clinics registered are regularly inspected to ensure standards of health and safety are met. Clinics should have their certificate on display and don’t be afraid to ask to see it. If in doubt visit the www.rqia.org.uk/home for a full list of clinics in your area.

Taking the decision to start a hair management programme will improve your confidence; seek advice and don’t feel shy, clinics like ours deal with these issues every day and understand the sensitivity of this issue.
Reflexology and your digestion- how it helps?
June 3, 2015 9:26 am Comments Off on Reflexology and your digestion- how it helps?
We abuse our feet, we cram them into shoes styles and sizes that are not always best for them, they bear our weight, they are under considerable tension. You know how good it feels to take your shoes and socks off and wiggle your toes, let the air at them and even put them up. It feels wonderful to free your feet. So what exactly is Reflexology?

Reflexology is a holistic healing art, a form of therapeutic foot massage.It is based on the principle that the body is reflected on the feet through a series of reflexes and the objectives of a reflexologist is to stimulate these reflexes. Reflexology is not fully explained to the satisfaction of science but like many alternatives to modern medicine its application has numerous consumers satisfied with its positive effects.

As reflexologists we are primarily concerned with internal body energy: energy is the basis of all life and a vital factor in healing.Around 80 per cent of modern diseases are believed to be stress related, although we may not be able to altar the stress situations in life we can altar how we cope, natural healing techniques, meditation, diet and exercise can help control or decrease the stress response and thereby lessen susceptibility to stress related diseases.

How can Reflexology help with digestive problems and how are they connected?

Sometimes the digestive system can become sluggish, the results of improper digestion and improper elimination causing tiredness and lack of vitality and strength. The small intestine separates the pure and the impure. As well as influencing the functioning of the large intestine, it also controls reabsorption of liquids needed by the body and passing some on to be eliminated. Keeping that which has nutritional value, and passing on waste to where it can be removed happens on all levels of experience, both physiological and psychological: for example sorting through the rubbish from that which is useful in ideas, emotions and thoughts. If this function is not working properly symptoms can arise such as hearing difficulties, (inability to sort sounds out from one another), or digestion problems which are a result of poor sorting. Thus the flow relates not only to assimilation of foodstuffs but also to experience, feelings, ideas and to spiritual nourishment. Modern day lives have many stressors that will regularly trigger our fight or flight response. This adrenal stimulation over a period of time with no discharge of energy can deplete essential vitamins and minerals and damage the functioning of the digestive system. Regular reflexology treatments will relax the body, reduce stress, improve circulation, cleanse the body of toxins, improve creativity and productivity and balance the whole system.creating a state of homeostasis (balance). A relaxed body can heal itself.

The reflexologist will concentrate his/her treatment on the areas on the feet corresponding to the entire digestive system, the pancreas, the liver, and the gall bladder.

We all stand to gain from giving relaxation a greater role in our lives, Reflexology can become a powerful antidote to stress , helping you to cope with stressful situations, this alone with have an enormous impact on our physiological health, improving all sorts of ailments and conditions.

*Reflexology is not a medical treatment, we do not diagnose illness or practise medicine, we do not proceed with a treatment as if the session is going to cure a problem, although clients do attest to better health and sometimes a marked reduction or even disappearance of the ailment.
What is Electrolysis and how will it help your skin?
May 27, 2015 12:49 pm Comments Off on What is Electrolysis and how will it help your skin?
Your genetic make up determines the amount of body hair you have. Excessive hair growth is a very common problem, affecting self esteem and driving people into supermarkets and pharmacies in search of the next hair removal cream or waxing home kit. For some though, this can lead to bigger problems, as what may have started as a few random stragglers on your chin now seems to be covering large areas of your face. We see this every day in our line of work and would urge you to seek advice from a professional before you start to tamper and create a bigger problem. There are various options available to you; electrolysis has been around for a long time and can treat any colour of hair, skin type and there is no waiting for 4 weeks between sessions as you would have to, in the case of laser hair removal. in addition, virtually any area of the body can be treated.

Some common cause of hair growth:

Hirsuitism is a condition that can arise in woman due to excessive male hormones causing hair to grow in areas where men normally grow hair such as the face, back and chest.

Hypertrichosis refers to abnormal hair growth often over the entire body but can also be localised.

Polycystic Ovaries causes excessive hair growth usually on the face, chest. back and buttocks.

Hormonal changes within the body can influence hair growth, for example woman going through the menopause can experience increased facial hair.

Some drugs, temporary methods of hair removal and illness can stimulate hair growth.

As most of these conditions are influenced by internal factors they will regular management of hair removal. We have seen many positive results from clients suffering from these conditions.

So what is electrolysis?

An electric current is applied with a very fine needle-shaped electrode, or metal probe into each hair follicle to destroy the root. There are three types of electrolysis,galvanic, thermolysis and blend.

The hair growth pattern has many stages, the growing stage, resting stage and shedding stage. Multiple sessions of electrolysis are needed because all the hairs will be at a different stage in the growth cycle at any given time, it can take multiple treatments to get the hair in the growth stage for the electrolysis treatment to be most effective.

Electrolysis will not cause too much discomfort but you can use a topical anaesthetic, ask your electrologist for advice. A skilled practitioner should be able to adapt the treatment to suit your needs.

How do you find a good electrologist?

Honestly … they are like hen’s teeth!! Ask around, friends, family, your GP, or someone who has had electrolysis. When you go for your consultation have a good look around, are there certificates on display? Is the clinic clean? Does the electrologist use disposable gloves and disposable needles? You will instinctively get a good vibe or not!!

Skin problems associated with excessive hair growth.

Quite often clients who suffer from PCOS or any other hormonal related hair growth condition may also suffer from acne. In the first instance see your GP, medications for acne such as antibiotics or even the contraceptive pill can help. Your GP will advise you. Personal hygiene is essential, keep your hands away from your face, ensure you have a good home care regime, cleanse, tone and moisturise the skin every day. Exfoliation is also important. For coverage, mineral make up is the way to go, it is non comdogenic and will protect your skin whilst allowing you the coverage you need and in most cases providing you with an SPF. Your local salon should be able to advise you.
Waxing versus Shaving – 10 things you need to know
May 21, 2015 10:55 am Comments Off on Waxing versus Shaving – 10 things you need to know
Waxing or shaving? It really comes down to two things, preference and cost. If you aren’t sure which method to opt for we have a few tips for you:
1. Clients who opt for waxing often think trimming the hair in areas such as the bikini line may ease the pain as the hairs will not be so long but this is not the case, in fact if the hairs are too short they will break at the surface rather than come out at the root. The hairs should ideally be about one eighth of an inch for the best waxing results.
2. During the menstrual cycle you can be more sensitive to pain so best to avoid waxing for that reason. In fact your pain threshold can vary for many reasons, if you are tired, not in a great mood, perhaps haven’t been sleeping, all of these things can make you feel a little more sensitive to pain. Some clients advise us they take a couple of paracetamol or ibuprofen prior to waxing, and in their opinion it takes the edge of the pain however we could not recommend this.
3. If you are taking any medication make sure you let your therapist know especially Accutane, or creams containing AHA’s or Retin A, these are not compatible with waxing and could lead to skin burns or the skin lifting.
4. It’s important to avoid hot baths, showers and sun exposure following a waxing treatment as the skin will be extra sensitive for 24/48 hours. Once the skin has settled, try to exfoliate two or three times a week as thing will lessen the likelihood of ingrown hairs.
5. In most cases you should find your waxing treatment will last around four weeks, six if you are lucky. It is a definitely a more permanent option than shaving and also less time consuming as you aren’t reaching for the razor every day. However dependent on your budget waxing can be expensive so if you opt for shaving here a few tips:
6. Wet shave, dry shave, multi-blade razors, double-blade razors, shaving cream, oil, foam or gel. There is such a wide range of products to use for shaving, it’s just about finding the right one that works for you!Wash the area you want to shave with warm water. This will help clean the skin of impurities and bacteria that could cause infection. It will also open up the pores, helping to get a closer shave. Some find it easier to shave whilst in the bath or shower.
7. Apply your product, sometimes allowing the product to sit on your skin for a few minutes before you begin shaving will soften the hairs slightly and make it easier for you to shave.
8. Remember to shave in the same direction as the hair growth. This usually means shaving downward, but not always. Going against the direction of the hair growth makes for a closer shave, but it may irritate the skin more and is likely to cause cuts.Be sure to keep rinsing your razor to get rid of any hairs that have stuck in between the blades.Last but not least make sure the skin is pulled tight to create a smooth surface to shave over.
9. Downsides to shaving include nicks, irritation, ingrown hairs and shadows, none of which can be covered easily with make up.Downsides to waxing include, letting the hairs grow, ingrown hairs and more discomfort.
10. If you are concerned about excessive hair growth it may be worth having your GP organize some hormone tests. There are various medications available that can help.
5 Benefits to an Indian Head Massage
May 13, 2015 10:32 am Comments Off on 5 Benefits to an Indian Head Massage
Indian Head Massage is one of our favourite treatments, theres a good chance you won’t look great after your treatment as your hair will not only be tussled but if oil has been used you might look like you haven’t washed your hair for a while. Our tip is to bring a hat or scarf to wear on the way home, despite all of this you will feel great.

The treatment costs £25 and takes around 30 minutes and starts on the back and shoulders, progresses to the head and finishes with a pressure point massage of the face. Often the main energy centres of the body can be blocked (chakras), the massage releases negative energy that can manifest as illness and disease and encourages free flow of energy throughout the body creating a feeling of wellbeing.

Indian head massage has a number of benefits:
1. Relieves migraine, headaches and back pain. The therapist will work firstly on the shoulders, upper back and neck to release those hard to get at knots. Often tension in these areas can lead to headaches and back/neck pain and dependant on your job if working at a desk and your posture isn’t great can lead to ongoing problems.
2. Hair growth. The massage can stimulate hair growth as it can increase nourishment and oxygen to the hair follicles and this in turn can stimulate hair growth. If you are a male and concerned with hair loss, suffer from alopecia or simply just wanting longer locks this treatment is worth trying. Although there are no guarantees quite often hair loss can be stress related so even the simple fact that you are relaxing will help.
3. Increase your energy levels. By creating a feeling of well being, this massage can have a powerful effect in increasing your energy levels and creating a state of homeostasis (balance).
4. Loss of memory can be a common modern lifestyle problem, in many cases caused by a stressful busy lifestyle. An Indian Head massage will force you to relax, slow down and calm down. This state of mind is much more to conducive to a proactive/productive lifestyle.
5. Improved sleep. Many of us suffer from insomnia and broken sleep pattern. Make a point of switching off your mobile, iPad, laptop a couple of hours before you go to bed. A monthly maintenance Indian head massage treatment will encourage you to relax and open your body to better rest. By massaging the head we encourage oxygen to the brain which will reduce anxiety and encourage deeper relaxation and state of well being.
Other conditions that Indian Head Massage can help with are eyestrain, sinus congestion, depression,anxiety and tinnitus. Sometimes following any holistic treatment, the body can go through what is called ‘a healing crisis”. This is nothing to worry about and is usually just the body ridding itself of toxins; symptoms include headache, lethargy, post nasal drip, increased urination, disturbed sleep, soreness of muscles and heightened emotional state. These symptoms will usually subside within 24 hours and you will feel great as the body will have rebalanced itself.

A very popular treatment that doesn’t have to take up too much of your time but will benefit you greatly …. definitely worth a try !!

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