Aromatherapy oils are a natural way to help alleviate all those niggling pregnancy symptoms and used responsibly, can help you to enjoy a calm, relaxed and positive pregnancy. Here’s everything you need to know…

What are aromatherapy essential oils?

Essential oils are extracted from plants, trees and flowers through the stem, petal, roots and body. The oils are rich in nutrients but highly concentrated which means one or two drops is often enough to create a noticeable effect. Women have been using them for centuries now – in baths, on their faces, on clothes, as massage oils and for hair (amongst other uses) and are recognised largely for their beautifying/relaxing properties. What can they be used for? They make us smell and feel edibly delicious and have an uplifting/calming/relaxing/energising effect on the mind and body (depending on which oils we opt for). It’s also believed that aromatherapy has the ability to help balance out all those raging hormones that flood our bodies during pregnancy and help us feel calmer, more balanced and in tune with our expanding body/growing baby. They also have the handy knack of making us feel generally ‘well’ with a more positive approach to pregnancy, parenthood and beyond.

Usage for pregnancy

You should avoid oils during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy but in the second and third trimester there are many oils that are safe to use on the body and on a pillow or blanket for inhalation. The key to essential oils is to use them in small amounts – just a couple of drops is usually enough to help you relax (up to four if you’re putting it straight into a bath) and if you find you need more, try diluting them with water or burning them on an oil burner. Room fragrance is the safest and easiest way to enjoy aromatherapy in pregnancy – you only need to diffuse a tiny amount to appreciate the benefits and there are many ways to release the oils – from oil burners and aroma lamps to diffusing with a fan or using a nebuliser. Most of these items can be purchased from aromatherapy stores and natural health shops with a specific focus on essential oils. For massage, always dilute with a carrier oil to make the concentration less intense and more delicate on the skin and body. And if you have a history of allergies in the family, do a patch test first to make sure your skin reacts well to the oil. Don’t buy the cheapest oils you can find as these are most probably fragranced oils and are more likely to be mixed with other ingredients undesirable for pregnancy. Instead, opt for good quality pure essential oils and pure vegetable carrier oils (good for mixing into massage oil) such as sweet almond or olive oil. If you want to find out more about the safety aspects of aromatherapy oils, you could book a session with a qualified aromatherapist who will be able to advise you on the best oils and how to use them.

The best oils for pregnancy

Anything that makes us feel good during pregnancy has got to be worth a try – especially if you’re in the third trimester and struggling to haul your ever-increasing bump around! Pregnancy puts a lot of stresses and strains on the body but fortunately there are lots of different oils to help ease aching backs/shoulders and encourage a sense of relaxation throughout the last few months. In addition to buying and mixing your own oils, you can also look at pre-blended oils that contain certain oils suitable for pregnancy but take away the time required to blend and prepare by hand.

• Bergamot: this light, refreshing citrusy oil can help relieve pain, lift spirits and aid both antenatal/postnatal depression and sadness. It’s also an effective indigestion reliever – another common pregnancy complaint. 
• Lavender: Great multi-purpose oil that relieves pain, relaxes the body, relaxes the mind, and helps to install a sense of calm/tranquillity, eases headaches and muscle pain. Women have also used lavender as an effective solution to stretch marks – worth bearing in mind if you’re left with more than you bargained for after the birth of your baby!
• Lemon: Useful as an inhalant for morning sickness and in massage for varicose veins.
• Neroli: A beautiful oil that can relieve all manner of aches, pains and niggles during pregnancy including digestive problems, anxiety for the birth/parenthood, depression, fluctuating emotions and sleep difficulties (particularly in the last trimester). It also helps to promote healthy skin cell regeneration and keep pregnant skin glowing.
• Rosewood: Deliciously scented oil that has a mild sedative effect to aid sleep-deprived mums to be.
• Sandalwood: Anti-depressant and helpful for cystitis during pregnancy.
• Tangerine: A great treatment for stretchmarks and aiding sleep.
• Geranium: A balancing, uplifting pain relieving oil that can help ease lots of pregnancy problems such as swollen/painful breasts, swollen legs and ankles, backache and general discomfort. Note: It is widely recommended that if you use it at all, you only use very dilute geranium oil in pregnancy and some practitioners go on to recommend only in the third trimester and never during a high risk pregnancy.
• Chamomile: Soothes muscle pain, headaches and indigestion, with a calming effect on the mind and body.
• Eucalyptus: Antiviral oil that can help ease coughs and colds during pregnancy.
• Frankincense: Great for use during labour, this oil helps to relieve pain, encourage steady controlled breathing and help women to stay focused. It also has comforting properties which can be reassuring for women in labour.
• Grapefruit: Aids digestion and helps ease water retention.
• Ylang Ylang: Calms, brightens and helps to restore focus in stressful situations.           

And those to avoid

There are specific concoctions that should be entirely avoided during pregnancy because they contain oils unsuitable for pregnancy or their concentration levels are too high. Using oils irresponsibly and without caution can be dangerous for pregnant women as they can cause the blood to thin and even bring on early contractions.

The following oils should be avoided:

• Basil
• Cedarwood
• Cinnamon
• Clove
• Cypress (you can use this after 5 months of pregnancy)
• Fennel
• Hyssop
• Jasmine (not one for pregnancy but great for use during labour)
• Juniper
• Lemongrass
• Myrrh
• Parsley
• Pennyroyal
• Peppermint
• Rosemary
• Sweet marjoram
• Thyme

Essential oils in labour

Many mums to be opting for a more natural labour and birth incorporate essential oils into their birth plan. In addition to helping them relax, stay calm and remain focused on their breathing, aromatherapy oils can also install a more positive state of mind and help to relieve painful contractions and cramps.

If you want to prepare good massage oil for labour (give it to your partner to have at the ready!) the following concoction can help:

• 30mls carrier oil (such as sunflower or sweet almond oil)
• 4 drops lavender
• 2 drops roman chamomile
• 2 drops frankincense

Essential Oil Safety Information

As essential oils are highly concentrated, it is important not to exceed the number of recommended drops.

Essential oils should never be taken internally without seeking the advice of a professional practitioner.

With all essential oils, even when diluted, contact with sensitive areas such as the eyes should be avoided. If however oil does get into the eyes, wash them immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention.

Bergamot essential oil should not be used before exposure to the sun or a sunbed.

Lemongrass, Citronella, May Chang and tea-tree should not be used on children under two years old or on sensitive skin.

When massaging children under 6 years old, no more than 2 drops of essential oil per 10mls (two teaspoons) of vegetable oil or lotion blending base should be used, and no more than 2 drops of essential oil should be added to their bath or vaporiser. Essential oils, even when diluted, should be used with caution on children under two years old.

All pure essential oils should be kept out of reach of children. If a child accidentally swallows any essential oil, seek urgent medical attention.

If you have a skin condition, are pregnant, have epilepsy or asthma, are on a course of treatment with prescribed medication, or are in any doubt about any condition you may have, it is important that you seek the advice of a doctor or suitable practitioner before using pure essential oils.

General Foot Care Tips at home.

For All Feet

1. Wash your feet daily. Rinse off all soap and dry thoroughly, especially between toes. If the toes are left wet, bacteria from socks and shoes can grow in big number and this will lead to “Athlete’s Foot” condition which is very itchy with flaky skin.
2. Trim nails straight across, and not too short. Don’t cut out or dig at corners.
3. Do not trim, shave, or use over-the-counter medicines to dissolve corns or calluses. If they get in a bad way, then seek the advice of a therapist or a chiropodist and make sure you book an appointment for a treatment with either one of them as they perform professional sessions to clear the problems for you.
4. Remove any old nail polish regularly with non-acetone nail polish remover as it will not dry out your nail plates.
5. Don’t apply new nail polish over old coat which is already half chaffed. Apply new fresh nail polish every time and allow yourself enough time to do it before any social events.
6. Wear clean socks or stockings, changed daily. Don’t wear any that are too short or too tight.
7. Wear shoes that fit.
8. Some people’s feet sweat more than others, and are more prone to athlete’s foot. You can use special powder to put in your shoes and socks to alleviate the sweating. And if you have a big problem with sweating, then you can consult with a specialist who can administer BOTOX to stop the sweating. It is an efficient treatment.
9. Don’t walk bare footed in the gym and especially around the wet areas, as bacteria is lurking in those places. You can get verrucas, athlete’s foot and many other foot conditions.
10. Always wear flip flop in the public shower and around the swimming pools.

These tips may help:

1. Wear shoes made of leather or canvas – not synthetics. Sandals are good.
2. Switch shoes from day to day.
3. Use foot powder.
4. See your doctor if severe problems persist.
5. Have a regular pedicure with a professional therapist.
6. Make sure your shoes are always well heeled and clean inside out.
7. Get the right size of shoes so your feet fit in comfortably without having the toes  and the heels hanging out as this will hurt your feet and give you hard skins and other skin conditions.

Finding the Right Shoe for You

The wrong shoes can cause or aggravate foot ailments. The right shoes can often prevent – but cannot correct – problems. So wearing the right shoes is vital to foot health. Follow this checklist when you buy shoes. Be sure they measure up.

SHOE CONSTRUCTION

Leather is best because it breathes like skin and moulds to your foot. But cheaper canvas is fine for fast-growing children.

Soles should be strong and flexible with a good gripping surface. Insoles should be cushioned to absorb the jolts of walking on hard surfaces.

Arch supports distribute weight over a wider area. Rigid shanks also give added support.

High heels are fun and look good, but they should not be worn too long at a stretch or for much walking. Besides cramping the toes, they change body
posture, making backaches more likely.

THE RIGHT FIT

Only you can tell if shoes fit. If they aren’t comfortable, don’t buy them!

Don’t plan on shoes stretching with wear. If you already own shoes that are too tight, ask your shoe repair shop if they can be stretched.

Because feet spread with age, have your feet measured every time you buy shoes. Both feet should be measured as they are often different sizes. Always buy shoes for the BIGGEST foot.

Go shoe shopping late in the afternoon. Feet swell to their largest then.

Size depends on shoe make and style, too. Don’t insist you always wear one size if the next feels better.

The toe box should be roomy enough so you can wiggle all your toes.

Your forefoot should NOT be wider than your shoe.

The heel should fit snugly and the instep should not gape open.

If you can’t find shoes that fit, ask your doctor for advice.

SHOES FOR CHILDREN

Good shoes are especially important to avoid problems in developing feet.

Because shoes serve only to protect children’s feet from injury, none are needed before a child walks.

High-topped infant shoes do not support ankles – oxfords and tennis shoes are equally good.

Check OFTEN to be sure shoes aren’t too small. Children’s feet are so flexible they can be crammed into shoes two sizes too small – and the child may
not complain.

Don’t have children wear hand-me-down shoes. They are permanently moulded to the original owner’s foot.

Unfortunately, most shoes today are narrower in the front than the foot is. You can check this by standing on paper and tracing around your bare foot.
Compare the outline of your foot with the sole of your shoe. If your shoe appears too narrow, you may be inviting foot problems. Choose only shoes that feel comfortable – you are the best judge of that.

Our marvellous feet evolved for flexibility and strength – not to be stuffed into shoes. When people roamed the earth barefoot 4,000 years ago, foot
problems were not the rule. Today, we need shoes to protect our feet from cold, injury, disease, and pounding on hard pavement. But too often we choose shoes for style rather than comfort and function. Remember: good shoes are part of the good care your feet deserve.

1. Cigarette smoke: Whether you smoke, or you spend time with a smoker, cigarette smoke is damaging — and aging — to your skin increasing wrinkles and dryness.
2. Sun exposure: When skin is exposed to the sun it becomes more mottled in appearance, freckles can turn into brown sun spots and the skin takes on a dry, leathery appearance.
3. Lack of exercise: Exercise helps to tone your muscles and get your blood flowing.
4.  Exposure to cold weather: Cold winds and low temperatures contribute to aging skin by making skin dry, so if you venture out in the cold be sure to use a good moisturizer.
5. Alcohol use: Alcohol contributes to aging skin by dilating small blood vessels in the skin and increasing blood flow near the skin’s surface. Over time, these blood vessels can become permanently damaged, creating a flushed appearance and broken vessels on the skin’s surface.
6. Stress: Stress and worry cause frowning, and over time the muscles in the face actually conform to that movement.
7. Lack of sleep: Too little sleep makes you look and feel tired and shows up on the face, as dark circles and bags under the eyes, plus sagging skin.

While some signs of aging skin are inevitable, taking good care of yourself is the most important step in your anti-aging skin care program.

Check our website www.thebeautytherapyroom.co.uk for the Promotions we have for this year, as some of them can help you with the ageing care and prevention. In addition, remember that we have £25 OFF Gift Vouchers to give to all our Clients for Botox, Derma Fillers & Wrinkle Reducer Treatments given by Ethos Medispa. All you need to do is pop in at our salon and claim your vouchers, then call Ethos Medispa at their Call Centre to book your next appointment with our Consultant for a treatment!! It is as simple as this!! Don’t Delay it any longer !!!

15% Off on ALL Jessica & Australian Body Care Products

 The products ON SALE are as follows:

• Jessica Nail Polish
• Jessica Treatment Basecoats
• Jessica Hand & Feet Crèmes
• Jessica Gift Boxes
• ABC Hair Products
• ABC Body & Face Products

 Terms & Conditions:

This offer is valid until 30th June 2012.

Products are limited and on first come first served basis.

No Credit is given, all products must be paid for on the day of the purchase.

Products CANNOT be returned or exchanged for other items once bought.

Why YES of course. Have you ever looked or seen the state of some men’s feet? They look terrible and even horrible. Every person, male or female should get their feet looked after by a professional therapist to restore them back to their health. And it is an Important Grooming schedule throughout the whole year and NOT just for the summer hot days!!!

As temperatures are rising, we have the tendency to choose lighter clothes and to reveal more of our body. Switching to sandals or flip flops is something we all do, so a proper pedicure is very important.

However, the question is: should men opt for a salon pedicure or for the regular nail cutting in the bathroom?

First, you would be amazed of how many men choose to do their pedicure at specialized salon; it’s not an activity reserved for women only! The advantage of the salon treatment is that you get pampered and your feet get the best treatment possible: no misshaped nail, no infections, and no effort!

Why a pedicure?

During a typical day, feet endure a cumulative force of several hundred tons and because healthy feet are vital to overall health. The average person
walks approximately four miles every day or 115,000 miles in a lifetime. When someone is engaged in strenuous activities, the miles increase.

So pedicures can be a good way to help keep your feet healthy, looking and feeling good. A pedicure cleans feet, provides nail care and foot massages. A good pedicure can be very relaxing and if you have foot problems it can be very therapeutic. Nails help protect the ends of our fingers and toes from trauma. Nails are made up of keratin, a hard protein. Protein is a building block for organs.

There are some things to consider when looking for a good pedicure. All instruments should be new or sterilized prevent the spread of fungus or
disease. A therapist should be licensed and accredited and make you feel comfortable. If you are not at ease with your therapist, you should not
proceed with the pedicure.

A pedicure is a way to relax as well as a way to take care of your feet.

What are the benefits of a pedicure?

Regular pedicures not only help keep feet looking pretty, they also keep nails trimmed, calluses controlled and skin moisturized. In addition, a foot massage helps to relieve tension and stimulate circulation.

Treat yourself to a salon or deluxe spa pedicure or pamper your feet at home:

1. Start by cutting toenails straight across with a toenail clipper then shaping nails with cushion file.
2. Next, refresh feet with a 10 minute foot soak using a large bowl or inflatable Pedi bath.
3. Smooth away dry skin and calluses with a good foor scrub, then using a foot file or pumice stone to smooth the areas on the heels and the sole of the feet.
4. For an extra treat, use a moisturizing, softening foot masque to condition the skin. Leave on for 15 minutes.
5. Rinse and dry feet, then massage them with a foot lotion or massage oil.
6. Before polishing nails, remove all traces of oil or lotion with a cotton swab soaked in polish remover. You can buff and shine the nails with a buffer.
7. If you are a person who likes to apply nail polish on their toenails, then follow this procedure: To give your pedicure the perfect finish, use a professional-quality base coat, followed by two coats of nail polish to finish with one layer of top coat. Allow polish to dry thoroughly.

Everyone knows that it feels nice to get a pedicure. Getting some extra time spent on pampering the toes and legs is always welcomed. Even the polished toenails look wonderful and make you feel so pleased with yourself. There are also physical benefits to getting a pedicure on a regular schedule.

While your therapist is working on your feet, they are doing more than just playing with your toes. By removing the dead skin and calluses with either
pumice, or other professional implements, your therapist is helping to improve the appearance of your feet as well as your general body comfort. Having calluses on your feet can cause uneven pressure when you walk or stand that can also lead to the pain you feel when on your feet all day. Many therapists also use foot reflexology while giving pedicures. This helps stimulate the blood flow to the feet and legs and provides the relaxation you feel when someone is massaging. The massage in a pedicure is one of the most important parts. Massaging certain spots on someone’s foot sends signals to other parts of the body to encourage overall health improvement anywhere in the body. Depending on the amount of pressure, the area being worked on, and the ailment of concern you can see results from eyes to liver to solar plexus.

In the case of deluxe spa pedicures with various scents there are additional benefits above and beyond the physical. It has been known for years that certain scents and oils can be beneficial for improving circulation, focus memory and mood. Pedicures that incorporate scents often have several of these benefits included with them. The smell of lime invigorates the mind, sugar excites, and vanilla relaxes. All of these may seem like simple scents you are paying more for but are actually making your pedicure great, instead of just good.

Leaving the salon with pretty toes may seem like the only reward you get, but you are also gaining a good mood and better health. Besides, it never hurts to have pretty toes.

So Ladies & Gentlemen, get your appointment booked very soon and be VERY PROUD of your feet from now on!!!

You will find some good promotions at The Beauty Therapy Room if you browse our website: www.thebeautytherapyroom.co.uk, or by reading the following ones that we added here for your benefit:

• FREE JESSICA CUTICLE CREAM (WORTH £8) – WHEN YOU BOOK A JESSICA MANICURE OR PEDICURE 
• FREE JESSICA CUTICLE CREAM & HAND CREAM (WORTH £15) – WHEN YOU BOOK GELeration MANICURE OR PEDICURE

1. Offers are valid until 30^th November 2012.
2. Terms & Conditions apply – check our website for more details or ask inside at reception.
3. Free Creams are valid until stock lasts.

Men Skin Care

With our ever expanding busy schedules, it’s hardly surprising that our skin doesn’t always receive the attention it deserves, but now it’s not just women who need help in the skin care department. Men are now noticing the harmful effects of everyday life causing havoc with their skin and are increasingly turning to professional products for help.

Problems such as rough, dry, agitated skin, razor burn, sensitivity, folliculitis, visible lines and wrinkles, dehydration and loss of elasticity are often cause for concern. Our skin is a vital part of our body; its main job is to protect the internal organs, but also to fend off micro-organisms and germs
which can result in diseases.

The male grooming industry is growing rapidly, with more and more men turning to professional products and treatments to help deal with their skin concerns. Professional skin care companies have also taken the time to look into the differences between the male and female skin and have formulated a variety of skin care products designed specifically for male skin. In America, statistics show that the number of visits to a spa that male clients now make has risen to 49%, that’s almost an even 50/50 between men and women! With this to bear in mind it won’t be long until statistics are the same in the UK market.

Male skin is about 20% thicker than female skin, often with larger pores and a richer blood supply. In addition to this, there are increased levels of
testosterone which encourages sebaceous activity. This results in a more oily skin type; generally male skin is 15% more oily than a female’s. It’s because of this increased oiliness that it’s vital to ensure the skin is thoroughly cleansed of any debris that may have been picked up during the day. By
cleansing the skin regularly, you are ensuring that a clean skin is maintained thus reducing the appearance of a dull, sallow complexion. When looking for a cleanser, it is vital that it does not contain mineral oil, as this ingredient can block pores and leave a greasy layer on the skin resulting in  breakouts. Mineral oil offers no benefits to the skin.

A common problem which men often suffer with is ingrown hairs and folliculitis. Ingrown hairs can often be found around the beard area and will occur due to shaving. When hair is cut off at skin level new skin can grow over this blunt hair and cause a blockage, which prevents the hair from continuing to grow in an upwards direction. When this happens the hair turns back on itself and any bacteria carried on the hair can cause the follicle to get infected.

The result of this is often a raised bump on the skin’s surface which looks much like a blemish.

Folliculitis is inflammation within the hair follicle; this can be caused by irritation or infections due to yeast or bacteria. For those men who have to shave every day, sometimes twice a day, razor burn folliculitis can be a concern. When the skin repeatedly gets little cuts from the razor, an opening
in the skin is created where bacteria can enter and infection can occur. Men who regularly shave will often discover problems such as dryness, dehydration and sensitivity. It is vital that sensitivity to regular shaving is addressed and the skin re-strengthened as strong skin is better equipped to keep these problems at bay. One of the best ways to help combat folliculitis is to ensure you regularly exfoliate the skin, which will clear away dead skin cells to prevent blockages from occurring. Regular exfoliation will also help to clear pores which will reduce the amount of breakouts, leaving the skin looking bright and refreshed.

A really good shaving emulsion would be recommended with ingredients that have been specially formulated to soften the hairs for a close shave,  which will also protect the skin from razor burn.

An effective shaving emulsion used in conjunction with a good quality after shave balm to moisturise, protect and desensitise the skin will really help to minimise these skin rashes.

The eye area is particularly vulnerable to the signs of ageing. There are 22 muscles in the face and 14 of these contribute to the opening and closing of
the eye. It’s the continual contracting and relaxing of these muscles that contribute to fine lines, wrinkles or crows feet around the eye. The skin
around the eye is very thin and delicate, with little subcutaneous fat and no oil glands. By regularly using an eye contour product around the eye area, you can deal with problems such as dark circles and fine lines as well as keeping the area looking fresh, bright and youthful.

If you combine all of the above elements with going to the gym where the skin is detoxified throughout the workout and the chlorine in the pool is stripping the skin of moisture, it is not surprising that men are finally asking for help.

One of the best all-round products which every man should ensure he is using daily is an SPF lotion. Male skin has more pigmentation than female skin, so it is important to protect and preserve the skin as much as possible. Not only is an SPF lotion one of the best anti-ageing products you can use, it will also prevent pigmentation marks which can often occur in later years. SPF 30 is the highest natural protection you can get; any higher than SPF 30 means that the product has been chemically made.

Pigmentation can cause an uneven look to the skin and can also cause the skin to look older than it actually is.

When exposed to harmful UVA and UVB rays, pigmentation can thicken the skin and sometimes give the complexion a slightly leathery appearance. To avoid this, it is advised to protect the skin with an SPF lotion every day, especially for those men who work outdoors on a regular basis.

Because a male’s skin is thicker than a female’s, wrinkles are more defined on male skin. Also, despite men generally having oilier skin than women, they lose up to 60% more moisture. These statistics demonstrate how vital anti-ageing products are and the reasons why they are becoming more popular. It also highlights the importance of using a good moisturiser to restore moisture levels in the skin, to avoid dehydration and sensitivity, which can result in premature ageing.

With growing numbers of men turning to the professionals for help and visiting spas more frequently, it is important that there are plenty of options to cater for the male customer, whether it’s a facial geared towards anti ageing, or advice and guidance on his individual skin care needs.

The best facial a male skin would benefit from would be a deep cleansing facial, which ideally includes extractions to deal with oiliness and blocked pores. If, however, the concern is sensitivity caused by problems such as razor burn, then a calming facial to strengthen the skin would be highly recommended.

Men do have concerns of their own but don’t always know how to deal with them, so as professionals we need to help, advise and guide them in order to help them achieve the skin that they deserve.

Many people are not aware that The Beauty Therapy Room offers all the Beauty & Holistic & Medical Cosmetic Treatments to Men, Women & Transgendered Persons.

So if you know that your partner, husband or boyfriend needs any treatment, you can either ask him to browse in his own time our website: www.thebeautytherapyroom.co.uk, where he can find out detailed information on every single treatment we offer as well as their prices.

In addition, The Beauty Therapy Room run several promotions of Beauty, Holistic or even Medical Cosmetic Treatments, and the details of these promotions are also on our website. But to help we will list them below for all of our clients to have a read through them and choose which promotion they would like to take on.

Promotions at The Beauty Therapy Room:

 A – HANDS & FEET SPECIAL OFFERS:

• FREE JESSICA CUTICLE CREAM (WORTH £8) – WHEN YOU BOOK A JESSICA MANICURE OR PEDICURE 
• FREE JESSICA CUTICLE CREAM & HAND CREAM (WORTH £15) – WHEN YOU BOOK GELeration MANICURE OR PEDICURE

B – HOLISTIC TREATMENT SPECIAL OFFERS:

• FREE £15 BEAUYT GIFT VOUCHER WHEN YOU BUY ANY 3 X 60 MINUTES SESSIONS OF
• HOLISTIC MASSAGE OR
• DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE OR
• REFLEXOLOGY TREATMENT.
•  £15 OFF  – ANY PREGNANCY MASSAGE – 60 MINUTES. Normal Price £65

C – BEAUTY TREATMENT SPECIAL OFFERS:

• MICRODERMABRASION & MICROCURRENT TONING – Book 5 sessions of Microdermabrasion or Microcurrent Toning Facial and Receive a FREE SESSION & FREE EYE LASH TINT to have at the end of one of the sessions of your choice.

 D – MEDICAL COSMETIC TREATMENT SPECIAL OFFER:

• FREE £25 VOUCHER – to use on ANY BOTOX, DERMA FILLERS OR WRINKLE REDUCER TREATMENT with the Ethos Medispa Medical Consultant. Just pop in at the salon and collect the FREE Voucher and book your session with the Consultant at the next available clinic at The Beauty Therapy Room.

E – REWARD SCHEME:

• Free £15 Beauty Gift Voucher – Receive this voucher every time:
• you recommend a friend/colleague/member of your family to The Beauty Therapy Room.
• you visit our Facebook Page and you click on “LIKE US”.
• or when you write a review/testimonial about your experience at The Beauty Therapy Room and you email it to us at info@thebeautytherapyroom.co.uk

Terms & Conditions:

ALL these offers are valid until 30th November 2012 and/or until stock lasts.

The courses must be paid in advance and in full – NO CREDIT is given and they must be used within 3 months of the purchase of the courses.

The HOLISTIC MASSAGES are available on TUESDAYS & THURSDAY ONLY and BOOKINGS BY APPOINTMENTS ONLY.

Any sessions booked and not cancelled or rescheduled within our 24 hours notice, it will be considered as used and cannot be refunded or re-used.

The Medical Cosmetic Offer is available on the specified monthly dates where the Medical Consultant will be present at The Beauty Therapy Room to perform ALL the Medical Cosmetic Treatments. To find out about those monthly dates, you can either browse our website in the Medical Cosmetic Treatment Page, or you can call ETHOS MEDISPA on 0845 6016441.

Please check for our general terms and conditions which apply to ALL our treatments and Special Offers – you can find them in much detailed forms on our website in the TREATMENT PAGE.

]]> http://thebeautytherapyroom.co.uk/2012/05/05/should-men-look-after-their-skin/feed/ 0 http://thebeautytherapyroom.co.uk/2012/04/28/what-causes-ordinary-puffy-eyes-and-dark-circles-under-the-eyes/ http://thebeautytherapyroom.co.uk/2012/04/28/what-causes-ordinary-puffy-eyes-and-dark-circles-under-the-eyes/#comments Sat, 28 Apr 2012 09:00:47 +0000 Marlene Rose http://thebeautytherapyroom.wellbeingpages.com/?p=2934 What Causes Ordinary Puffy Eyes and Dark Circles under the Eyes?

Ordinary swelling around the eyes means you have an excessive accumulation of fluids, called oedema, in surrounding skin tissue. Because the skin around the eyes is the thinnest skin in the body, swelling and discoloration can be quite prominent.

But why does fluid accumulate to form puffy eyes in the first place?

Oedema around the eyes generally results from a variety of factors, including:

• Overconsumption of salt, which causes fluid retention
• Allergies that can cause inflammation and swelling
• Sinus problems
• Dehydration
• Fatigue and lack of sleep
• Stress
• Crying
• Aging
• Inherited facial features

While the last answer isn’t very satisfying, it’s true that many people have puffy eyes because this trait simply runs in the family.

With aging, eye puffiness can be caused in part when fatty tissue that ordinarily protects the eye inside the bony eye socket begins to push forward and fill in spaces below the eye.

This happens because aging processes cause thinning of the membrane or “septum” that ordinarily holds back fat in both the upper and lower eyelids. As the membrane thins, the fat herniates and pushes forward. This is when bags or bulges start forming under the eye.

Why Are Eyes Sometimes Puffier in the Morning After You Wake Up?

While we sleep, we don’t blink. And this is part of the reason why eye puffiness develops. Puffiness or bags under the eyes have many causes, including inherited tendencies.

Blinking for eyelids is like walking for legs. When idle, some people develop swelling in their lower extremities that goes away as soon as they start walking and muscles in the legs begin “milking” the trapped fluids (oedema), which are released back into circulation.

A similar action takes place in the eyelids. The closed, non-blinking eyelids during sleep potentially can swell in certain people prone to this problem. So in the mornings, you could wake up with unusually puffy, swollen eyelids. As soon as you open your eyes and blinking begins, some of this swelling can diminish in an hour or so.

When Do Puffy Eyes Mean You Have a Medical Condition?

Particularly when they occur unexpectedly, swollen eyes sometimes signal an underlying medical problem.

For example, people with thyroid eye disease can develop swelling of tissue and muscles around their eyes. Also, bulging eyes can signal a thyroid disorder known as Graves’ disease.

Eye allergies related to conditions such as hay fever also can produce swollen eyes. Other types of allergies, such as reactions to certain foods or chemicals, can cause swollen eyelids.

During an allergic reaction, certain cells release a chemical in the body called histamine that has many adverse effects on body tissues,  including fluid leakage from the blood vessels. These fluids become trapped in surrounding tissues, causing oedema. 

Puffy, swollen eyelids and dark circles under the eyes can occur when you have an eye infection such as pink eye. These swollen eyes are caused by inflammation associated with the eye infection, which directly affects the neighbouring eyelids. Also, dry eyes can cause general puffiness and swelling.

Systemic diseases including kidney failure also can lead to general swelling throughout the body, including around the eyes.

What Can Be Done About Puffy Eyes and Dark Circles?

To find the best solution for puffy eyes and dark circles, it’s important to identify the underlying cause.

• Dark circles can form under the eyes from stress or lack of sleep. If you have the same puffy eyes as your mother or father, you probably inherited the trait — so you can blame your parent! In this case, you will need to learn to live with the look or consider cosmetic options that might help reduce the puffiness.
• Puffy eyes caused by aging also probably would require a cosmetic solution. You might want to discuss with your eye doctor or cosmetic surgeon some of the available options to address your eyelid concerns. These options include chemical peels, laser skin resurfacing procedures, certain cosmeceuticals (prescription skin products such as Danne Eye Tone Lotion) and eyelid surgery known as blepharoplasty. Blepharoplasty involves removing extra fatty tissue and excessive skin from upper and lower eyelids, as well as tightening skin and muscles to reduce puffiness and wrinkles.

Many temporary remedies can help reduce the swollen look around eyes, such as:

• Using eye drops for irritation caused by allergies, if appropriate
• Drinking ample fluid to prevent dehydration
• Applying iced compresses when your lids are swollen
• Applying cucumber slices or chilled tea bags over closed eyes
• Using creams and other skin products specially formulated for use around the eyes
• Reducing salt in your diet
• Eating potassium-rich foods, such as bananas, to eliminate excess fluids in your body
• Splashing cold water over your face and eyes
• Getting plenty of sleep and rest

One of the most common home remedies, as mentioned above, is the temporary use of haemorrhoid creams and ointments to reduce the puffiness in eyelids. A common active ingredient in these preparations is phenylephrine, a medication that constricts blood vessels, reducing their diameter.

This can have a potential dual effect on puffy eyelids:

• First, if dark circles are caused by a visible network of blood vessels under the thin eyelid skin, then making the vessels smaller might reduce the darkness.
• Second, constricting the blood vessels could reduce the potential for leakage of fluid from within the blood vessel, and this might reduce puffiness.

However, be aware that there are risks associated with using haemorrhoid creams for this purpose. If you accidentally get any of these types of products in your eye, you can experience a severe inflammatory response known as chemical conjunctivitis.

Before trying this, you should ask your eye doctor about the wisdom of using haemorrhoid creams or other home remedies for puffy eyes.

Please use this information as a guideline, and if you have any doubt or concern, it is always best to consult your GP or your cosmetic surgeon before taking any action on your own.

]]> http://thebeautytherapyroom.co.uk/2012/04/28/what-causes-ordinary-puffy-eyes-and-dark-circles-under-the-eyes/feed/ 0 http://thebeautytherapyroom.co.uk/2012/04/28/what-happens-during-a-professional-st-tropez-treatment/ http://thebeautytherapyroom.co.uk/2012/04/28/what-happens-during-a-professional-st-tropez-treatment/#comments Sat, 28 Apr 2012 09:00:11 +0000 Marlene Rose http://thebeautytherapyroom.wellbeingpages.com/?p=2925 Salon treatments for a professional and flawless St TROPEZ tan:

St. Tropez is the first choice of professionals and beginners the world over because every product is created to deliver a beautiful even tan, every time. For a flawless finish, there’s nothing quite like a professional touch – that’s why our salon treatments are as popular as ever.
Choose from the hand-applied Original Treatment for a rich, bronze long-lasting glow or a Spray Tan which delivers a flawless finish in minutes.

• Preparing for a Professional Tan in Salon:

Original treatment: The Original Treatment is a luxurious pampering hour-long treatment which delivers exceptionally smooth, rich bronze results. The treatment begins with a full body exfoliation to prepare the skin for tanning. The therapist will then custom-blend the Bronzing Lotion and will apply to the entire body before buffing to finish.

• Before treatment advice:

•Skin should be free from self tan, perfume, deodorant or aromatherapy oils

•Waxing or shaving should be completed at least 24 hours prior to the treatment.

•Wear dark, loose fitting clothing with dark coloured underwear. The guide colour may stain light hair, man-made fibres and wool

•We recommend you have a patch test prior to every treatment if you have a very sensitive skin.

• After treatment advice:
  

  ST TROPEZ for men & women

•Do not shower or bathe for a minimum of 10 hours after your treatment.

•Do not participate in any activity which may cause perspiration for at least 12 hours after the treatment.

•The guide colour can be left on overnight although it may transfer onto bed linen. It will wash out of cotton, but not so easily from man-made fibres or wool.

• How to keep your tan looking gorgeous for longer:

•Apply St. Tropez Body Moisturiser or St. Tropez Body Butter daily.

•Exfoliate your skin with St. Tropez Body Polish every 2-3 days to ensure even fading.

•After showering pat the skin dry rather than rubbing.

•Avoid swimming pools as chlorine can bleach the tan.

• Spray tan treatment: The St. Tropez Spray Tan Treatment is the quickest way to get a professional finish. Delivered in around 15 minutes, the spray is quick drying and now features Aromaguard™ fragrance technology which eliminates the tell-tale self tan aroma by a minimum of 70%.
• Before treatment advice:

•Skin should be free from self tan, perfume, deodorant and aromatherapy oils.

•Waxing or shaving should be completed at least 24 hours prior to the treatment.

•The evening or morning before your treatment, exfoliate your entire body with St. Tropez Body Polish. Pay special attention to dry areas of your body such as hands, elbows, knees and feet

•Wear dark, loose fitting clothing with dark coloured underwear. The guide colour may stain light hair, man-made fibres and wool.

•We recommend you have a patch test prior to every treatment if you have a very sensitive skin.

• After treatment advice:

•Do not shower or bathe for a minimum of 10 hours after your treatment.

•Do not participate in any activity which may cause perspiration for at least 12 hours after the treatment.

•The guide colour can be left on overnight although it may transfer onto bed linen. It will wash out of cotton, but not so easily from man-made fibres or wool.

• How to keep your tan looking gorgeous for longer:

•Apply St. Tropez Body Moisturiser or St. Tropez Body Butter daily.

•Exfoliate your skin with St. Tropez Body Polish every 2-3 days to ensure even fading.

•After showering pat the skin dry rather than rubbing.

•Avoid swimming pools as chlorine can bleach the tan.

The essential 10 step by step guide to a picture perfect self tan:

Here they are, our absolutely top 10 tips to ensure your tan is perfectly gorgeous for as long as possible….

1. If you’re a tanning junkie, make sure you exfoliate regularly to avoid build up as several layers of tan can result in an uneven result.

2. If you’re waxing or shaving before tanning, make sure you do it more than 24 hours before your tan.

3. When you’re tanning give yourself a good all-over polish and apply plenty of moisturiser the night before to get your skin as silky as possible. The most common cause of a patchy tan is dry skin, so it’s crucial to moisturise problem areas (wrists and hands, elbows, knees, ankles and feet) immediately prior to self tan application.

4. Keep palms tan-free – try using latex gloves or our applicator mitt when applying, then simply sweep the backs of the hands with self tan diluted with moisturiser. Our Tan Remover– which you can use for up to four hours after tanning – removes any unwanted tan.

5. When you’re applying your tan, make sure you’re covered all over. Don’t worry if you go over the same area twice – the tan will only be patchy if you miss a bit, not if you double up.

6. Make sure you don’t rub in your gradual or self tan. Gentle smoothing is all you need, and then you can let the product do its work. Rubbing may make the finish uneven.

7. Try to avoid washing your hands for as long as possible in the development time – a minimum of 2 hours. Try a hand sanitizer or wipes instead.

8. Your tan won’t get deeper the longer you leave it – once it’s been on for the required amount of time (check the pack) it will have given you the natural-looking golden colour you’re after. For a deeper tan you should re-apply on successive days – 2 – 3 days in a row will give you a really deep, rich bronze tan.

9. When you’ve applied your tan wear loose, dark clothing and avoid tight-fitting underwear. Anything that’s pressing on the skin may make the results a bit patchy.

10. The hands and face will fade quicker than the rest of the body so apply Rapide Face to the face and the backs of the hands to keep your tan looking fresher for longer. For a colour boost for the rest of the body, try using St Tropez Self Tan Intensifier every 2-3 days – but don’t forget to polish and moisturise, too, or your colour won’t fade evenly…

Male tanning

Of course, a healthy-looking tan that exactly suits your natural skin tone appeals to everyone – certainly not just women. Today, men make up a significant percentage of our customers as they discover our totally natural-looking sunless tanning products that deliver professional results you can count on. So, for a healthy, toned colour at the gym, at the start of a holiday or a big night out, guys know that St. Tropez will give them an all-over, even colour that will help make them look great and never fake. Whether you choose to treat yourself at home or book in for a convenient salon appointment (where guys are making up more and more of our loyal clients), St. Tropez is the brand you can trust to give you a healthy glow.

Not confident enough to tan you at home for the first time? Why not treat yourself to a salon treatment.

Tanning Problem areas

There are two types of problem area when it comes to tanning. Bits that can stain and give away your self-tan and dry/rough bits that can make it look uneven.

Hairline & eyebrows

If you’ve fair hair smooth a bit of St. Tropez Body Moisturiser over eyebrows and the hairline to stop the hair from staining.

Hands

Palms and the spaces between your fingers simply wouldn’t tan naturally which is why tanned palms are a total giveaway that your tan’s out of a bottle. There are several ways to keep them natural looking – try applying your self tan with St. Tropez Latex Gloves then remove them and apply self tan to the backs of your hands when you’ve finished the rest of your body. Our applicator mitt helps St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse glide over the body and also means palms don’t get stained. Occasionally nails can stain too, so try painting yours with clear polish before you get started or simply remove excess self tan with a wipe. If that sounds like hard work, then simply try our handy Tan Remover to see off any palm stains before it starts to develop (to be used within 4 hours of application).

Other problem areas

Wrists and hands, elbows, knees, ankles and feet are often prone to dryness and roughness. Make sure you polish and moisturise them well to ensure a sleeker, more even tan.

Unique Formulation

St. Tropez is a safe, non-toxic chemical reaction of key active ingredients in the top layers of the skin that cause it to change colour. All our products are renowned for their natural and pampering results because our formulations have combined these active ingredients with a soothing Aloe Vera base that helps prevent the drying so often seen with other self tanning products.

Fragrance

When you’re looking and feeling your best, you want to smell good, too. Yet the unmistakable aroma of all self tans (which is caused by the action of DHA on the skin) is very difficult to hide. For years St Tropez scientists have tried to find a way to effectively mask or disguise the smell, they have finally gone one better – with brand new Aromaguard™*.

With a fresh, light fragrance, Aromaguard™ doesn’t just mask the smell – it’s a ground-breaking technology that actually sees off that  distinctive aroma (the smell is reduced by a minimum of 70%) and replaces it with a subtle fragrance that works in harmony with the skin to
leave a soft, subtle scent that’s lovely on it’s own and light enough to layer under your normal fragrance if you prefer.

With hints of iris, fresh fruits and violets, Aromaguard™ is a major beauty breakthrough and a first in the self tanning market. St Tropez is delighted that as of now you can use St. Tropez safe in the knowledge that our entirely natural-looking colour now has an aroma that won’t
give you away either.

* You’ll only find new Aromaguard™ fragrance technology in new look Self Tan and Everyday products.

The science

St. Tropez formulations contain a unique combination of two completely safe active ingredients that work together to give a gorgeously natural looking colour that fades naturally, too.

1. The first ingredient, dihydroxyacetone (or DHA for short) is a colourless sugar that interacts with the amino acids in the surface  layer of the skin to produce a temporary colour change – your tan.
2. This is then combined with Erythrulose, a naturally moisturising ingredient derived from raspberries, that works in the same way as DHA but it develops more slowly, giving you a smoother colour that lasts longer and fades more evenly.

To Book an appointment for a ST TROPEZ Tan Treatment at the Beauty Therapy Room, you can call us on 020 7242 7745 or email us with the day and time convenient for you at info@thebeautytherapyroom.co.uk and we will be delighted to help you. For all treatments exceeding 30 minutes treatment time, we will require a 50% deposit on the time of booking to secure your treatment. This can be done on the phone by supplying us with your credit card details or by email. We never keep your card details on our system for your protection and security.

We will certainly try our best to be present in good times to serve our clients to the best of our ability during those 3 days of hard journeys to work and home! Good Luck everyone and lets hope that they will cancel it soon after coming to their senses and strike a good deal with the Unions and the workers!!

Tube strike: Three-day walkout announced by maintenance workers. London Underground passengers can expect widespread disruption after maintenance workers announced they would strike for 72 hours next week in a row over pensions and benefits.

The Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers union (RMT), which represents 1,000 staff at Tube Lines, said its members would walk out at 4pm on Tuesday April 24th and not return until the same time on Friday April 27th.

Tube Lines affected are the Piccadilly, Northern and Jubilee lines.

Holistic massage is an ancient method of healing that clears the lymphatic drainage system and releases toxins from the body. By recognizing that illness and stress affects not only our physical but also our emotional, spiritual and mental well-being, holistic massage allows the body’s natural healing abilities to come forth and balance the entire body as a whole.

Origins

Holistic massage techniques have been used for thousands of years in Egypt, China and India. Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healing system, uses the therapeutic benefits of massage combined with plant extracts, spices and aromatic oils.

Techniques

There are four main massage techniques used in holistic massage. Effleurage involves stroking movements; petrissage is a technique that resembles kneading; tapotement includes cupping movements and hacking; and vibrational movements are created using the fingers.

The Meaning of “Holistic”

The term “holistic” derives from the ancient Greek word “holos” which means “whole”. By definition, holistic massage treats the whole of the body as a single unity.

Considerations

When giving a holistic massage, it is important to remember that only muscle should be massaged; the therapist should not put pressure  directly on any bone area, as this can cause discomfort or damage to the recipient. If you recently had an operation, consult you doctor before receiving a massage.

Benefits

Holistic massage can lead to better circulation, less physical tension and deeper breathing, which oxygenates the entire body. There are also many emotional and mental benefits from holistic massage . 

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue Massage is a generic term used to describe bodywork which goes below superficial connective tissue with the intent of breaking up old structural patterns and allowing the free flow of nutrients and oxygen in the blood. Deep tissue massage requires that the therapist apply a considerable amount of pressure which in some cases may cause some discomfort.

Benefits of deep tissue Massage:

• Reduces pain
• Increases range of motion of limbs by restoring mobility
• Relaxes and sooth muscles
• Breaks up scar tissue due to injury
• Aids muscles to stay flexible

Who may benefit from deep tissue massage?

• Athletes (weekend athletes as well)
• Individuals with chronic joint or muscle injuries
• Individuals that perform repetitive work that causes considerable strain on muscles and joints
• Individuals who suffer from stress

General comments

It is generally perceived as male therapists being able to provide a better deep tissue massage than female therapists. This is a misinformed perception as deep tissue massage relies on proper massage technique which can be achieved in an effective manner by male and female
therapists alike. Deep tissue massage is a type of massage aimed at the deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia, also called connective tissue. Deep tissue massage uses many of the same movements and techniques as Swedish or Holistic massage, but the
pressure will generally be more intense. It is also a more focused type of massage, as the therapist works to release chronic muscle tension or knots (also known as “adhesions.”)

Will A Deep Tissue Massage Hurt?

• It shouldn’t hurt, but it’s likely to be a bit more uncomfortable than a classic Swedish massage.
• You should always feel free to speak up if the pressure is too much for you.
• It’s important to drink a lot of water after a deep tissue massage to help flush lactic acid out of the tissues. If you don’t, you might be sore the next day.
• It’s possible that you might feel some soreness the day after a deep tissue massage even if you DO drink water. This just means a lot of waste products were flushed out of the tissues. It should pass within a day or so.

How Fast Will I Get Results With A Deep Tissue Massage?

• It’s important to be realistic about what one deep tissue massage can achieve.
• Many people ask for more pressure, thinking that if the therapist just pushes hard enough, they can get rid of all their knots in an hour. This just won’t happen.
• In fact, undoing chronic knots and tension built up over a lifetime is best achieved with an integrated program that includes exercise, work on your posture and ways of moving, relaxation techniques and a regular program of massage.
• Finally, while deep tissue massage is certainly valuable, you should be aware that gentle styles of massage like craniosacral therapy can also produce profound release and realignment in the body.

To book an appointment for a Holistic Massage or a Deep Tissue Massage with one of our Holistic Therapists – they are present at The Beauty Therapy Room every Tuesdays & Thursday from 1.00 pm to 8.00 pm. You can call us on 020 7242 7745 or email us at info@thebeautytherapyroom.co.uk with your credit card details as we require a 50% deposit for all treatments exceeding 30 minutes duration.

Also we like to remind of our Holistic Promotion which is running until 30th June 2012 and it is as follows:

** Buy 3 sessions of 60 minutes of Holistic Massage or Deep Tissue Massage or Reflexology, and we will give you a £15 Gift Voucher to spend on Beauty Treatments at The Beauty Therapy Room.

So Hurry and get this fabulous offer as places are limited and first come first served basis. Already few of our clientshave enjoyed their sessions with our Holistic Therapists. Don’t miss out on some pampering and relaxation times!!!