"THE CLARINS EXPERIENCE CONTINUES...."

My skin was still glowing from my facial with Aneta when I signed up for another day of pampering at the Clarins Skin Spa on Madison Ave. I began with a full body exfoliation with the Gommage Exfoliant Peau Neuve that not only exfoliates but softens, smooths and firms. This amazing product is made from bamboo powders and extracts of Mimosa and Shea. The treatment begins with the signature Eau Dynamisante fragrance by Clarins which begins the aromatherapy relaxation experience. This fragrance combines citrus with delicate woody notes to create a relaxing feeling. Then the lovely Aneta once again used her gentle healing touch to exfoliate my entire body using therapeutic hand movements to apply the exfoliant. I was then able to take a warm relaxing shower in the immaculate glass enclosed shower in the quiet treatment room. I used one of my new favorite Clarins products Bain aux Plantes Tonic which is an invigorating shower and bath gel made form essential oils of Rosemary, Mint and Geranium. After my shower I was gently massaged into a trance-like state. Aneta used the Clarins signature lymphatic drainage massage techniques to remove toxins and stimulate my circulation. She used a combination of Huile Tonic body treatment oil, Creme Masvelt Body Shaping Cream and Lift Minceur Haute Definition cellulite control treatment. She custom designed the combination of treatment creams and oils to target my problem areas as well as create a relaxing aromatherapy experience. When I was finished my skin felt like silk and I immediately felt my skin more toned and tightened. I was even wearing a pair of patent leather leggings that slipped on and were lose like I had already lost inches. This 2 hour treatment combined with a facial in my opinion is the ultimate in a day of luxurious beauty!

"THE PURPLE CUPCAKE PROJECT"

I have had the pleasure of knowing both Debra and Danielle Joseph's of the Anita Kaufman Foundation which was founded to promote epilepsy awareness. I was thrilled to be the key makeup artist for the Purple Event launched last year during New York Fashion Weeks Fashion Night Out. This year I have had the pleasure of being the key makeup artist for The Purple Cupcake Day ad campaign featuring fashion model Jaime Paetz. Jaime is the face of the Anita Kaufman Foundation who suffers from epilepsy personally. We partnered with the famous New York renown Magnolia Bakery and fashion photographer Anna Thiessen to create a vintage photo shoot for the campaign.

The Purple Cupcake Project will take place March 20-26th. The participating bakeries across the country will donate fifty cents from each cupcake sale to the Anita Kaufaman Foundation.

www.AKFUS.org
www.MagnoliaBakery.com

"THE CLARINS EXPERIENCE!"

I had the pleasure of having one of Clarin's signature facial treatments. I have had many facials over the years at some of the top spas and skin clinics in New York, Miami and Los Angles. I must say I was very impressed. I have very sensitive skin and am always looking for a treatment to soothe my skin and to hydrate my almost always dehydrated skin. This wicked winter has been especially unforgiving for my skin. I have been experiencing dry and flaky areas, redness, irritation and sensitivity. I felt the difference from the moment my therapist, the lovely Aneta touched my face with her gentle healing touch and soothing cleanser. I felt the deep cleansing when she used a suction like technique that felt thorough but not rough or irritating. I was also not irritated by the gentle enzyme exfoliation treatment. I absolutely loved the Clarins signature lymphatic drainage massage. I felt so relaxed I fell asleep for part of it. I also loved that the treatment was not just for the face but included the hands and arms, neck and shoulder massage and even a scalp and foot massage. I also really enjoyed the aromatherapy experience from Clarins signature scents and my plant mask add on. The mask was so cooling and healing. I was almsot sad when she put it on because I knew I was nearing the end of my experience and I wanted to stay another hour. I not only felt that my skin was being treated but I felt a mind and body connection as well. I felt completely balanced, relaxed and soothed after. My skin was smooth, glowing and refreshed. I have continued to see results each day after the treatment and am using the at home routine which Aneta recommended. I'm hooked I definitely be adding this to my monthly skin routine. I highly recommend the Clarins facial. It's not only an amazing treatment but the price point is very reasonable for a Madison Ave address. The basic facial is only $140 and the Tri-Active Anti-Aging Facial is only $150. They also offer a series if you buy 5 treatments you get the 6th treatment for free. In addition to facials they also offer body exfoliation, body wraps, body contouring for cellulite and a self-tanning treatment. I cant wait until next week for my body treatment! Stay tuned for more of the Clarins experience.

OASIS ON MADISON AVE: CLARINS SKIN SPA

The Clarins Skin Spa on is located on Madison Ave and 81st. It is the perfect private oasis to escape from the fast paced hustle and bustle and stress of NYC. When you first walk into the boutique you are immediately relaxed by soft spa music playing and a glass of water with lemon. The decor is comprised of the Clarins signature colors all white with red accents. The shelves are pristinely organized with the full line of Clarins skin care and body products. There is also a separate makeup station complete with mirror and chair for custom makeup application. There is also a beautiful flower filled solarium waiting area with plush sofas. Then you are whisked upstairs where there are 4 private treatment rooms complete with changing rooms and showers your own spa robe and slippers. The treatment rooms are immaculate, quiet and very private. The spa offers amazing facial, body treatments and massage. The treatments are totally unique and do not include any machines. The Clarins philosophy combines the power of botanicals with the healing touch of the hands. The Clarins Skin Spa is the perfect place to go to for a unique results oriented comprehensive spa treatment. The Clarins Skin Spa is run by Spa Director Denise Schoenberger a well seasoned beauty executive. Denise is detail oriented and has excellent customer service skills which creates an extremely professional yet warm and inviting atmosphere. I highly recommend the Clarins experience. I give the Clarins Skin Spa 5 stars!

Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 9-8
Sat 9-7
Sun 11-7

www.Clarins.com

To schedule a spa treatment with a skin therapist or a consultation with a skincare specialist/makeup artist call 212-734-6100 for an

DEAR DIARY "HOW DO I COMBAT WINTER SKIN?"

The weather is calling for yet another snow storm! This winter weather is ravaging to the skin. The dry, cold and windy air can cause extra dry skin, irritation, sensitivity, redness, chapped lips, dehydrated skin and more! If you are having a hard time coping with the weather and the effects it's having on your skin this is for you. I've put together my winter first aid kit for the skin. Here are my top 10 Product Picks:

1.Dermalogica Climate Control-this healing balm is perfect for protecting skin from the cold on a harsh windy day. It's made with soothing ingredients like shea butter, lavender and oat. It's unique anti-oxinate complex helps shield skin from temperature, pollution and stress. It calms irritation, soothes and protects.

2.Dermalogica Skin Hydrating Masque-this oil-free gel masque is excellent for dehydrated skin from being indoors with the heat and lack of water in the air. Let's face it we all drink more coffee and tea when it's cold out but the lack of water leaves skin dry, sensitive and dehydrated. This masque hydrates, refreshes and is packed with antioxidants. I love to keep it in the fridge for an extra cooling feeling,

3. Dermalogica-this is for skin 911. This is super concentrated masque is for redness, irritation and inflammation. It contains mushroom extract and really works on contact. I like to use it after a day out in the cold. I like to use this masque first and then the skin hydrating masque after for an extra relieving at home treatment.

4. Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant-this is a very gentle yet effective exfoliant excellent for dry sensitive skin as well as all skin types. It is gentle enough to be used daily and is great for removing that dry flaky winter skin. I love to use it on my lips it's a great prep for lip balm and lipstick application, It leaves lips smooth and soft.

5.Clarins Toning Body Polisher- winter weather not only effects our face but our body as well. I love to use a body exfoliator in the shower this is made of sugar and salt crystals and essentials oils such as rosemary, mint and hazelnut. It's smells and feels luxurious

6.Clarins Bath and Shower Concentrate- this relaxing gel is soothing for both the bath or shower and is made with St. John's Wort and Valerian which are calming and help with the winter blues. It's my new favorite!

7.Clarins Relax Body Treatment Oil-this oil not only smooths, softens and conditions dry winter skin but soothes and relaxes with geranium, chamomile and basil essential oils

8. Clarins High Definition Body Lift- this is one of my year round favorites. This is excellent for toning and tightening skin and helps reduce cellulite. I find that in the winter in particular my skin seems to need an extra boost especially after post holiday indulgence

9.Vapour Organic Lip Conditioner- This is by far the BEST lip conditioner I've ever used! It doesn't contain the usual petroleum in most lip balms that actually drys lips instead of conditioning. It's made with Certified Organic Jojoba and Evening Primrose Oils and Shea Butter. Amazing! I just ran out and need to get some ASAP!

10. Tranquileyes-this is an amazing all natural eye hydrating system. This is excellent for winter dry and red eyes. It's also great for sinus headaches from a cold. It comes with an eye mask, eye covers and a relaxing mist,

www.dermalogica.com for all Dermalogica products

www.clarins.com for all Clarins products

www.vapourbeauty.com for lip conditioner

www.dreamessentials.com for Tranquileyes





www.dreamessentials.com

DEAR DIARY "WHAT IS B SPA BAR?"

B Spa Bar is a hidden gem located inside the Prive Salon at The Soho Grand Hotel. I had the pleasure of meeting the Founder and CEO of B Spa Bar Diana Seo. Diana is not only a sweetheart but is an entrepreneur power house full of a wealth of knowledge and information and business savvy. I absolutely love the philosophy at B Spa Bar. It's all about combining Eastern and Western philosophy for the ultimate mind, body spirit connection. Instead of the usual cookie cutter facial offered at most spas the B Spa Bar designs custom facial cocktails for your individual skin type, conditions and personal needs using a combination of Certified Organic and Bioactive ingredients. The spa also offers body treatments that are not just your typical relaxing massage but actually balance and heal the body and mind with treatments like Chakra and Lymphatic Healing, Reiki and more! In addition to the amazing facials and body treatments B Spa Bar offers the latest in Medical Technology for a preventative approach to the aging process. The spa offers some of my favorites such as LED light therapy and micro-current. B Spa Bar is definitely the pulse of skin care innovation. Stay tuned for more upcoming events and information on B Spa Bar.

www.bspabar.com

"TOP TEN WAYS TO BEAT THE WINTER BLUES!"

I don't know about you but this is my least favorite time of year! This snow storm has definitely kicked in the Winter blues. If you are feeling sluggish, depressed and bloated after all the holiday over indulgence now is the perfect time to start a Winter regime. I have put together some of my favorite ways to beat the blues.

1. Cleanse-Now is the perfect time for a cleanse after an indulging in holiday eating. Sugar and carbs can actually cause depression by slowing the body down. This time of year our desire to sleep and eat more is increased which can cause weight gain and lack of motivation. I like to start my Winter regime with a cleanse. The Master Cleanse is a great easy way to jump start the metabolism and get back on track with a healthy diet after the holidays. http://themastercleanse.org

2.90 Day Challenge-The next step after the cleanse is to create a diet plan that includes lots of organic fruits and vegetables, lean protein like organic poultry, fish and tofu and complex. It is especially good to make fresh squeezed vegetable and fruit juices which will boost mood and metabolism. I like to start a 90 day challenge in January so I'm ready for Spring.

3. Vitamin Supplements-This time of year because of the lack of sunlight we can be deficient in Vitamin D which can increase depression. It is important to get plenty of Omega 3 fatty acids as well. It is recommended to take 1000-4000 IU of Vitamin D as well as an Omega 3 supplement and eat plenty of salmon which is naturally high in Omega 3.

4.5HTP- This supplement is a natural amino acid that boosts serotonin which helps with depression.It can also help with insomnia and weight loss. It can be purchased over the counter and has very little side effects.

5.Warm Baths-This is one of my favorite ways to deal with the cold weather. A nice bathe helps with muscle tension and aches and pains brought on by the cold. I love to use natural bath salts from Wholefoods. I love to mix lavender with a little bit of eucalyptus.

6.Light Therapy- The most important way to relieve the blues is to get as much light as possible. The days get shorter and the dark can make us lazy and tired. I have found using a light box really helps. I purchased one from Amazon.com for $89.98 from Nature Bright Sun Touch Plus.

7.Massage-This is another one of my favorite ways to unwind and relax. Massage relieves tension and stress and muscle aches from the cold and helps improve circulation and improves mood. I'm very luck to have my amazing sister who is an excellent massage therapist. Stay tuned for more on the Body and Soul Massage website!

8.Melatonin-This is another natural supplement that can help regulate sleep cycles which can also help regulate mood and depression. I like to take it at night before bed for a restful sleep.

9.Stay Active+Social- Now is more challenging than ever to not want to just stay inside and isolate. I combat this urge by going to hot yoga. It's a great place to meet people and feel connected. It's also a great way to stay active and to stay warm and cozy.

10. Treat Yourself-I like to treat myself to something special at least once a week like a manicure/pedicure or a Sex in the City day with the girls, or just taking some quality alone time to meditate or listen to music

Stay Tuned for "HOW TO COMBAT WINTER SKIN?"