What’s the difference between a spa and a medi-spa? BLOG

Hey there, spa enthusiasts!  

 

Who doesn’t love a spa day – self-care and rejuvenation – yes, please! 

 

But many people often confuse a medical spa with a day spa, or vice-versa, so let’s break it down: 

 

At a Day Spa, you will likely be pampered with luxurious treatments that focus on relaxation. From soothing massages to expert manis and pedis, their mission is to transport you to a state of pure zen. We love day spas, and like to visit to unwind or recharge throughout the year. Some of the treatments are really fun, too!

 

At a Medi-Spa, you’re getting the best of beauty and science – advanced skincare treatments backed by medical expertise. Think of a medical spa as your go-to destination for treatments that not only make you feel fabulous but also tackle specific skin concerns. From laser therapies to Botox, these treatments are all about making a notable difference in the look and feel of your skin. The relationship you have with your med spa is a close one.

We work closely with each client to help them achieve and maintain long-lasting results.  Although some treatments are uncomfortable, we know we can help you reach your skin goals and enjoy the journey, too! 

 

Whether you're all about that chill vibes life or seeking some high-tech TLC, self-care is an investment that always pays dividends. 

What is Slugging?

Have you heard of slugging? It’s one of the newest viral skincare trends, said to originate out of Korea, that has people putting a layer of petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) on their face before bed.

Is it a good idea? 

Well, the thought behind slugging is that petroleum jelly will add a protective layer between your skin and environmental factors, thereby allowing your skin to absorb whatever skincare is under the jelly, while healing and remaining hydrated. 

So, in theory, it can work.

But, if you’ve ever put petroleum jelly on your lips, feet, or baby’s bum, you know it can be slippery and sticky – and that can pose a problem when you’re trying to sleep.

Here’s what we recommend you try instead (your pillowcase will thank you):

• Cleanse your face before bed (I hope this is a given every pm)

• Apply your Retinol 

• Use a hydrating sheet mask & leave on for 10-15 mins remove the sheet and do a light massage to penetrate the remaining product.

• Follow with a thicker layer of your night cream 

• Add a thicker layer of your night cream 

Also:

• Drink LOTS OF water throughout the day to keep your skincare in check

• Try a lactic acid peel or microneedling treatment to help improve your barrier function. This will help your skin to retain moisture better. 

Our vote? Skip the slugging.

Laser Hair Removal Gets Rid of Ingrown Hair

Ingrown hairs suck.

​​Ingrown hair occurs when a hair that's been removed starts to grow back and curves into the skin. Shaving, tweezing or waxing can cause this to happen. An ingrown hair can cause tiny, swollen bumps on the skin that may hurt.

Did You Know: Laser Hair Removal gets rid of ingrown hair? 

With laser hair removal, as we permanently destroy the hair and the hair follicles, we’ll find fewer and fewer ingrown at every treatment. 

Conversely, consistent waxing has the hair coming back thinner and thinner hair cannot push through the skin as easily as a coarse hair. This will cause ingrown hair bumps. For some, they can be severe. 

As for shaving, when you shave, you’re cutting the hair at the epidermal level, not at the root. Some razors actually pull the hair up to give you a tighter shave, which can also cause an ingrown. When the grows back, the hair can get caught in the layer of dead skin at the top of your epidermis, causing it to get trapped and develop into an ingrown. 

In some cases, shaving may also cause razor burn, which irritates and causes inflammation in the skin, dropping the hair and ultimately causing ingrowns.

 

In addition to permanently removing your hair, laser hair removal combats ingrowns, too. Call us for your free consultation and test patch.

Skincare While You Travel

If you’re planning an upcoming vacation, be sure to consider your skincare. We suggest keeping your skincare simple and consistent – use your regular products and avoid trying new things while you’re away:

Cleanser: A gentle daily cleanser will help remove any dirt and residual sunscreen on your face – use the same one in the morning and before bed. I like to bring my AlumierMD SensiCalm Cleanser; it’s great to soothe the skin in case I may have gotten more sun than I intended!

Eye Cream: With all the squinting and UV exposure, I’ll be damned if I am not going to bring my beloved eye cream and protect that thin skin around the eyes!

Moisturizer: It’s understandable if you really don’t want to pack too much, but Moisturizer is a MUST! If you're going to be in a hot place, your skin will need the added hydration, especially in the PM to replenish. You can bring your usual or you may want to consider a post-care cream like AlumierMD’s Recovery Balm or the Inno Skin Repair cream - so soothing and hydrating. 

Sunscreen: Like you didn’t know I was going to recommend bringing your SPF! A MUST on any holiday – we recommend bringing a couple, and keeping them on hand so you can re-apply when needed. If you are at the beach, look for a water-resistant, mineral-based, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or more. 

After-Sun: In the event you do get too much sun (ouch!), an after-sun product like Eucerin Sun Sensitive Relief, Inno Skin Repair or Recovery Balm are all great for soothing and calming irritated or red skin. 

Remember to take care of your skin on holiday – drink lots of water and wear a large brimmed hat and sunglasses for added protection. Choose shade where possible and re-apply your SPF often (at least every 2 hours in the sun). 

The sun is the number one cause of premature aging - just a reminder! :) Have a sun-safe vacation and your skin will thank you!