by UrbanSqueezeWeb | Nov 30, 2021 | US
6 Steps to Take in the Morning for Healthier, Protected Skin
Your skin has different needs in the morning and at night. In order to have healthy, glowing skin, you need to make sure your daily routines are meeting those needs. In the morning, you need to protect your skin from the damage it receives during the day and at night you need to pamper it after everything it went through during the day.
Here are the steps you should be taking in your morning skincare routine to help cleanse and protect your skin.
1 | Cleanse
Cleansing is the first step of any good skincare routine. Remember that everyone’s skin is unique so the type of cleanser you use will depend on your skin type. But no matter what cleanser you use, be sure to choose a gentle one, particularly if you plan to use more active ingredients later in your routine. Cleansing too much, too often or with a cleanser that is too harsh can actually break down your skin barrier, something you really want to avoid!
2 | Tone
This step is optional, but if you have a toner you like, you should use it! It’s a great way to balance your skin’s pH. If you have acne-prone skin, look for a toner that is specifically formulated for acne (look for salicylic acid in the ingredients). If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for a hydrating toner.
3 | Serum
Now is the time to give your skin a boost with a serum, like a vitamin C serum. Vitamin C helps reverse a lot of the damage caused by the sun and pollution. For darker skin tones, vitamin C can help mitigate dark spots (hyperpigmentation). Make sure to choose a serum with a stable form of vitamin C so the molecule will actually be able to soak into your skin.
4 | Eye Cream
Eye creams fall under treatment like serums, so layer it on now! Dab on your favorite eye cream with your ring finger so you avoid unintentional damage to this delicate skin.
5 | Moisturize
After you have treated your skin, it’s time to moisturize. Moisturizer is key in hydrating and strengthening your skin barrier. For daytime use, opt for a lighter moisturizer that will soak in more quickly. However, if your skin is drier, use a thicker formula, like a cream. Look for a moisturizer that contains ceramides or hyaluronic acid for better moisture retention.
6 | Sunscreen
One of the most important steps in your skincare routine is layering on sunscreen. Damage from the sun ages us with spots and wrinkles but even worse, it can cause cancer! No matter the color of your skin, use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher as the final step in your morning skincare routine. Don’t forget to apply it to your ears, neck, decollete and the backs of your hand.
Boost Your Skincare Routine
Get the ultimate in skincare by boosting your routine with a monthly facial. Skin renews itself about every 28 days and a facial can help you slough off dead skin, clear your pores and even zap acne. If you are dealing with stubborn acne, get it under control with our Face Reality Acne Lab. Our experts will help you detox your system and get your skin looking smoother and healthier in just a few short months! Book your skincare consultation or facial today!
by UrbanSqueezeWeb | Nov 9, 2021 | US
Can I Really See a Reduction in Fat with Cryo Slimming Treatments?
There is only so much diet and exercise can do when you are attempting to lose weight from specific areas on the body. Even with high intensity workouts and a strict diet, it can be hard to lose fat from target areas unless you are working with a professional trainer. Liposuction is another option but it is both expensive and highly invasive, meaning you will definitely have some recuperation time.
If you are struggling with stubborn fat in specific areas of the body, Cryo Slimming is a great option. It is a form of Cryoskin, a revolutionary treatment that is changing how we look at weight loss and plastic surgery.
What is Involved in Cryo Slimming?
Cryoskin involves the use of very cold temperatures applied to specific areas of the body. These very cold temps stimulate the body’s own collagen production and improve circulation. For Cryo Slimming, the cold temperatures tear down fat cells while increasing circulation to the area, which results in weight loss. This process is called cryolipolysis.
Does Cryo Slimming Work and is It Permanent?
Yes, it does work and it is permanent! Cryo Slimming essentially kills fat cells and they are then flushed out of the body. Once these fat cells are dead, they won’t return. You generally see results after one procedure, but we recommend a series of procedures to get the best results.
The only way fat can “return” is if you gain new weight after the procedure. This means that Cryo Slimming should be part of a holistic approach to losing and maintaining a healthy weight. To keep the results from Cryo Slimming, it is key that you continue your exercise regimen and eat a healthy and nutritious diet.
What Areas Can Cryo Slimming Treat?
There are several areas of the body that Cryo Slimming can treat including:
- Thighs
- Stomach
- Love handles
- Hips
- Butt
What is the Recovery Time and What Should I Do Before and After a Procedure?
First, you want to avoid working out right before a treatment. Intense exercise can make it harder to cool down your skin, which is crucial to the procedure working well. However, working out after a procedure is fine. You also want to avoid eating any kind of sugar two hours prior to your treatment.
The recovery time with Cryo Slimming is very short. The procedure isn’t very long and once you are done, you can go about your daily activities. Be sure to avoid eating any kind of sugar for at least two hours, though ideally four to five hours, after your treatment as well.
When Will I See Results?
You will see some results right away. The clinic you go to for the procedure will most likely measure you before and after the procedure so you’ll be able to put a numeric value to those results. It takes your lymphatic system about two weeks to flush everything out, after which you will see additional results.
Start Working on the New You!
At the US Wellness Collective, we believe in taking a holistic approach to your beauty and wellness. We understand that looking good means feeling good! That is why we offer many ways to help you achieve your personal beauty and wellness goals, including nutrition/health management services, Lipo B IM Injections, Energy & Metabolism IVs, and of course, Cryo Slimming! To book your Cryoskin consultation, visit our website today!
by UrbanSqueezeWeb | Oct 26, 2021 | US
An Ancient Practice with Healing Benefits
Cupping therapy got a big boost in the public eye during the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics thanks to gold medal swimmer, Michael Phelps. Those strange red dots on his back and arms caused quite the stir. Phelps used cupping as a form of recovery. But you don’t have to be a world-class athlete to enjoy the benefits of cupping therapy with massage.
What is Cupping?
Cupping might be trendy now, but it isn’t a new practice. It actually dates back to ancient Egyptian, Chinese and Middle Eastern cultures. One of the oldest medical textbooks in the world, the Ebers Papyrus, describes how ancient Egyptians used the therapy in 1550 B.C.
So what does cupping therapy involve? During a session, the therapist will place special cups on your skin for a few minutes to create suction. These cups can be made of glass, bamboo, earthenware (ceramic) or silicone.
The Different Methods of Cupping
There are two methods of cupping: dry and wet. During dry cupping, suction can be created one of two ways. The traditional method involves placing a flammable substance (like alcohol, herbs or paper) inside the cup and setting it on fire. As the fire goes out, they put the cup upside down on your skin. As the air cools, it creates a vacuum, causing your skin to rise and redden as your blood vessels expand. The cup is generally left in place for up to three minutes. The more modern version of cupping uses a pump instead of fire to create the vacuum inside. When silicone cups are used, the therapist can move them from place to place on your skin for a massage-like effect.
Wet cupping starts much the same as dry cupping. However, after mild suction is created and the cups left in place for about three minutes, the therapist removes them and then makes light cuts on your skin with a scalpel. Then they do a second suction to draw out a small quantity of blood.
After a treatment, you may get an antibiotic ointment and a bandage to prevent infection. Your skin should also look normal again within 10 days.
Are There Side Effects to Cupping?
Cupping is fairly safe as long as you go to a trained professional. Other than the red spots or bruises on your skin, you might also notice some mild discomfort in the spots you received treatment. When the traditional method of creating a vacuum seal is used, you might get a burn. You might also get a skin infection. Some people may also experience fatigue, nausea or headaches. It is important to note that if the equipment is not properly sterilized between patients, you might risk contracting a bloodborne disease such as hepatitis B or C.
What is Cupping Used to Treat and What are the Benefits?
The vacuum seal brings better circulation to the areas treated. Cupping can help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and general well-being. It is sort of like getting a deep tissue massage. Studies have shown that when combined with other treatments, like acupuncture, it may help with various diseases and conditions, including but not limited to:
- Acne
- Cervical Spondylosis
- Rheumatic disease such as arthritis and fibromyalgia
- Migraines
- Anxiety and depression
- Varicose veins
More studies need to be done on the effects of cupping with certain conditions. As with any therapy, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor first. However, people who should not get cupping include:
- Those who are pregnant
- Those with bleeding disorders such as hemophilia
- Those with blood clotting issues, such as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) or have a history of strokes
- Skin conditions including eczema and psoriasis
- Those with seizures (epilepsy)
Cupping + Massage
Here at the US Wellness Collective, we believe in holistic wellness that helps you feel good inside and out! Our professional massage therapists put the extra mile into each session, customizing your treatment to your unique needs! We offer cupping with massage for the ultimate in healing and relaxation. Contact us today to book your cupping massage appointment!
by UrbanSqueezeWeb | Oct 12, 2021 | US
Men Deserve Healthy, Good Looking Skin Too!
Good skincare isn’t just for the ladies! Many men also want younger looking, healthier skin. If this sounds like what you are seeking, now is a good time to re-evaluate your skincare routine!
A Key Difference
Men have more testosterone than women and that plays a part in how their skin is different. On average, men’s skin is thicker than women’s, about 20 to 25 percent thicker to be exact. Male skin is known for a tougher texture but it also contains more collagen, which gives a tighter, firmer appearance. However, collagen reduces at a constant rate over a man’s lifetime, where in females it mainly happens after menopause. This means that the effects of collagen reduction in men are less pronounced as it is spread over a longer period of time.
Men also have to deal with facial hair and the irritation daily shaving has on their skin. Also, men produce double the amount of sebum, which causes oiliness, and have more and larger pores. More sebum plus more and larger pores can lead to skin that is more prone to acne.
Now that we’ve looked at some key differences that affect skincare for men, let’s take a look at a regimen that can solve the skin issues more common in men and help you achieve more youthful and healthier skin.
Hot Water is Drying
When you wash your face or hop in the shower, warm water is best. This is because hot water strips away your natural oils and leaves your skin dry, itchy, scaly and flaky. So while men produce more sebum, you don’t want to leave your skin dry by stripping all of the oil away.
Use Moisturizer
Moisturizer traps water close to your skin. This extra moisture reduces wrinkles and can ease the effects of dry skin. Be sure to find the right type of moisturizer for your skin type. Working with an esthetician or dermatologist, you’ll be able to find the right moisturizer for your skin’s needs.
Skip the Soap
Sudsing up isn’t that great for your skin. So skip the soap and trade it for a cleanser. Soap actually removes too much oil from your skin, depriving it of its natural moisture barrier. This can leave your skin dry and itchy. A bonus is that cleanser gives you the right amount of cleanness and doesn’t leave soap scum on your skin, sink or tub! When cleansing, remember to go easy on the scrubbing! Gentle scrubbing with your fingers is best. Again, work with an esthetician or dermatologist to find the right cleanser for your skin’s needs.
Avoiding Razor Burn
You can combat razor burn by softening your stubble. One trick to softening that 5 o’clock shadow is to shave right after you step out of the shower. Also, be sure to use shaving cream, which cuts down on friction against your skin. Avoid shaving creams with alcohol and instead look for those with oils, glycerin, sorbitol and urea on the ingredients list. Also, skip the aftershave unless you use a straight razor that can nick you and lead to infection.
Pat, Don’t Rub!
When you dry your face and body, pat your skin, don’t rub! Rubbing can irritate your skin and leave you dried out. Rubbing also pulls on the skin, which can lead to heavier and earlier wrinkling.
Wear Sunscreen
Many men just haven’t caught up to women on sun savviness. It’s important that you wear sunscreen every day to avoid wrinkles, or worse, skin cancer. Many daily moisturizers have sunscreen in them already, but if you are out in the sun for long periods, it’s a good idea to reapply with basic sunscreen throughout the day. Check the bottle for when you need to reapply. If your moisturizer doesn’t have sunscreen in it already, put on some regular sunscreen before applying moisturizer.
Avoid Scented Products
Fragrance in skincare products is unnecessary and can actually lead to developing an allergy. So skip the moisturizer, shaving cream and sunscreen with the manly scent and choose something fragrance-free for less irritated skin.
Get a Facial
Skin cells renew every 28 days. We recommend getting a monthly facial to help remove dead skin cell buildup that can lead to clogged pores that cause acne. Facials can also give you needed moisture or address specific skin issues, such as flakiness or patchiness.
Treat Yourself Today!
At the US Wellness Collective, we believe in looking good and feeling good! Having great skin not only helps you feel more confident, but it’s also more comfortable to live in. Our experts are ready to help you find the best skincare products for you or deliver you a customized facial to meet your skincare needs and goals. Our services treat your mind, body and soul! Contact us to book your appointment today!
by UrbanSqueezeWeb | Oct 5, 2021 | US
What You Need to Know About Blood Facials for Hair Loss
You have probably already heard about Blood Facials, but did you know there is a similar treatment to help with hair loss? But how does it work and what kind of results can you expect? We’re diving into those answers in this article.
How Does Blood Facial for Hair Loss Work?
Our own blood contains two main components: red blood cells and plasma. The plasma contains white blood cells Blood Facial therapy for hair loss has proven to increase hair count, hair thickness and the growth phase of the hair cycle.
What is the Process for a Blood Facial Treatment for Hair Loss?
Don’t worry, this treatment uses your own blood! At the start of the treatment, you’ll have a standard blood draw by the practitioner. Your tube of blood is then put into a centrifuge, a machine that spins the blood to separate the red blood cells from the plasma. The plasma is then directly injected into your scalp at the level of the hair follicles to stimulate new hair growth. The process of the injections can be a bit meticulous as the plasma is injected approximately every half inch of the treated area. However, the entire process generally takes about a half hour to complete.
What Are the Side Effects of a Blood Facial Treatment?
While it might sound scary because the treatment involves needles and blood, there is minimal risk from this procedure. The injections can be done without any numbing and there is minimal discomfort. Some bruising may occur but this generally resolves within a week or two. You will also need to forego a day or two of your typical hair maintenance (coloring, processing, blow-drying, etc.) so that you don’t irritate your scalp. Also, be sure to choose a practice that follows safety and health guidelines; this does involve needles and you don’t want to go to a place that reuses needles or doesn’t clean their treatment rooms! Yikes!
What Results Can I Expect from Blood Facial for Hair Loss?
To see results, consistency is key! Treatments are typically done once a month depending on each person’s individual response to the treatment.
You’ll first see a reduction in hair shedding followed by early regrowth and increased hair length. Continuing the treatments on a long-term basis will help continue to stimulate the growth factors and stop the hair from falling out.
Who is a Good Candidate for Blood Facial Hair Loss Treatments?
Anyone who is experiencing hair loss is a good candidate for therapy. However, those who respond best are people experiencing early hair loss. Blood Facial is also a great treatment for those with androgenic alopecia, a type of genetically determined hair thinning. Blood Facial for hair loss also works best when used in conjunction with other therapy forms, such as oral and topical treatments.
The Bottom Line
Blood Facial therapy for hair loss isn’t a quick fix but it has been called the “miracle grow” treatment for hair. With patience and consistency, you can begin to see some real results!
by urbansqueeze | Sep 28, 2021 | US
Plus How Prenatal Massage Can Prepare You and Baby for Labor and Delivery!
Therapeutic massage has been used for centuries to help improve health, relieve muscle tension and reduce stress. Research has shown that prenatal massage therapy can have positive results as well. It is used to address different needs through varying techniques, helping to relieve discomfort associated with being pregnant, and can even improve labor outcomes and newborn health.
What is Prenatal Massage?
This massage therapy is a full-body massage performed by a certified prenatal massage therapist. The techniques used are similar to that of Swedish massage but with a few modifications for body positioning that ensures the safety and comfort of mother and baby.
The Benefits of Prenatal Massage
Let’s take a look at the many benefits you can experience from regular prenatal massage.
Reduce Swelling
During pregnancy, your feet, legs and hands can swell up. This is often caused by reduced circulation and increased pressure on the major blood vessels during pregnancy. Massage can help to stimulate the soft tissue and reduce swelling by moving the extra fluid. This in turn can help you feel more comfortable during pregnancy.
Relieve Pain
Prenatal massage helps relieve or decrease pain. Muscles can become very tight and it is not uncommon for those who are pregnant to experience lower back pain and sciatic nerve pain. By addressing tight muscles or inflamed nerves in affected areas, this type of massage can help increase blood flow which helps to release the tension that is brought on naturally by pregnancy. In turn, this improved circulation may also help to reduce headaches, joint pain, and stress and anxiety.
Hormone Regulation
Studies have shown that prenatal massage can help with hormone regulation and cardiovascular health. Those pregnant who received bi-weekly massages for five weeks showed that hormones associated with stress (norepinephrine and cortisol) were reduced while hormones associated with a reduction in depression (serotonin and dopamine–the “feel good” hormones) were increased.
Not only was it shown to help those who are pregnant feel happier and less stressed, but the positive changes in hormone levels also led to fewer complications during birth as well as fewer instances of newborn complications. In other words, the evidence suggests that there are both maternal and newborn health benefits when prenatal massage is incorporated into regular prenatal care.
Improve Sleep
Prenatal massage helps to relax the nervous system and increases those “feel good” hormones. In turn, this can help improve the quality of your sleep, something that can get more difficult as your pregnancy progresses.
Prepare Your Body for Labor and Birth
Prenatal massage can help you have an easier delivery. This is because it helps to reduce your overall stress and anxiety levels, but it also helps prepare the muscles by keeping them toned and relaxed in advance of labor. Studies have shown that those who received prenatal massage reportedly had shorter hospital stays, shorter labors and less incidence of postnatal depression.
Are there Precautions I Should Take?
There are a few precautions and things you should look for when deciding on a prenatal massage care provider. First, it is recommended that you have a discussion with your prenatal care provider about your health before deciding on any type of massage therapy. Second, there are some things you should consider when deciding on who to get prenatal massage treatments from. Many professionals consider the best position for pregnant women during massage is side-lying tables. Tables with holes for the uterus to fit through are not recommended as this can still apply pressure to the abdomen and cause uncomfortable stretching of the uterine ligaments. We recommend verifying what position you will be in when making your first appointment.
Feel the Benefits of Prenatal Massage Today!
At the US Wellness Collective, we believe that prenatal massage has been shown through research to be an instrumental ingredient in prenatal care. During your prenatal massage session, we’ll work to reduce back pain, tension and hip discomfort. A 90 minute session is recommended for best results. We also recommend getting a pregnancy glow facial, which can work wonders in cleaning out pores clogged by extra oil that is produced by pregnancy hormones. Book your prenatal massage and/or pregnancy glow facial today!
