The EC Blog

Click below to read about the very latest in the Esthetics and Wellness industry!

Perfect Pre Wedding Facial

Planning your wedding can be a stressful time and wanting to look your best is of the utmost importance.  Most brides are afraid to do anything too aggressive before that big day and that is why MyoLift™  Microcurrent utilizes one of the industry’s cutting edge innovative technologies out there.  Microcurrent works to stimulate and tone the facial muscles.  It is also known to increase collagen, elastin, circulation, ATP, product penetration and the best part is that it is non-invasive.  There is no down time and the treatment is very relaxing. With the increase of ATP (energy of the skin cell) your

Getting to Know Your Skin: What Type of Skin Do I Have?

While all skin types and tones typically follow the same basic skincare regimens ofcleansing, moisturizing, and applying sunscreen, there are certain nuances that apply tospecific skin types. Plus, it’s important to know your skin type before you purchaseskincare products. We spoke to New York City board-certified dermatologist Dr. NavaGreenfield about how best to determine your skin type. Why Is It Important to Determine Your Skin type? Before you spend any more time trying to figure out your skin type, you will probablywant to know the payoff behind it. “Your skin type will determine the skin products andingredients you choose to

Getting Bare with Farheem

Today, I sat down with my good friend Farheem who is Bengali. Curious about her journey with body and facial hair, I asked her what some of the biggest struggles have been and why a permanent hair removal solution would be good for her. Farheem was very open explaining to me that she has a lot of thick hair and has been trying to manage it for years. She has heard that “the more you wax, the more the hair becomes less and less over time”. This has never been the case for her. Frustrated, she told me she has

IMPROVE YOUR MOISTURE BARRIER IN 3 SIMPLE STEPS

Winter is synonymous with dry, dull, dehydrated skin… but so are changes in your hormones. Which is why making a few simple adjustments to your morning skincare routine can have a dramatic impact on the way your skin looks and feels — no matter your skin type. These three simple steps benefit dry skin, combination (t-zone oil) skin, oily skin or sensitive skin.  1. INVIGORATE YOUR SKIN WITH A SCRUB 2 TO 3 TIMES PER WEEK. A light manual exfoliation and massage with a scrub stimulates blood circulation, bringing oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells. This helps your serums and

NUTS ABOUT SKIN CARE

Most know that nuts as a food are healthy to add to our diets, but we are beginning to see more nuts and their oils in our skin care products. Most oils are full of omegas, fatty acids, antioxidants and other minerals that repair and protect the skin at various levels, providing a variety of benefi ts. Here are a few of the more common options available in pure form as a stand-alone oil or in your favorite skin care product. 1. Sweet Almond Prunus dulcis (sweet almond) oil is anti-inflammatory, which will help a variety of skin types and

Say Goodbye to Dark Spots- Guide to Improve Hyperpigmentation

Did you know that anything that irritates or inflames the skin can result in hyperpigmentation? To simplify, hyperpigmentation is unevenly distributed darkened patches of skin. Different types of traumas that occur on the skin, such as a scratch, mosquito bite, pimple, exposure to UV radiation, and even exposure to free radical damage trigger an inflammatory immune response which in turn leads to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation also known as PIH. Dark spots and an uneven complexion develop over time. Some dominant causes include sun exposure, skin injuries, smoking, and hormone fluctuations. Skin pigmentation is regulated by melanin production. A powerful way to enhance skin tone and improve

QuadDefense™ Collection FACT SHEET

Download FULL Article with Clinical Studies Environmentally compromised skin Everyone has some level of environmental damage on their skin. Whether it is caused by UVA, UVB or blue light, pollution, weather, or lifestyle choices (diet, smoking, certain sports etc). Factors we either cannot avoid, or habits that are difficult to give up. While genetics also largely determines when the skin starts to show signs of aging, environmental damage is a key factor, as it is an accelerator in the aging process, and unrelated to the human age. Unfortunately, environmental factors can negatively affect our skin from a very early age,

How Does Hyaluronic Acid Benefit Your Skin?

Hyaluronic acid has become quite buzzworthy in the skincare world, but what exactly is the function of this talked-about ingredient? And what products are most effective? We take a deep dive into what, why, and how this skin savior became a household name. What is Hyaluronic Acid? Hyaluronic acid is often synonymous with hydration. As a humectant that occurs naturally in the skin, hyaluronic acid draws water to itself like a magnet, binding to the water in cells for a bouncy, youthful complexion. “Hyaluronic acid is a molecule that holds 1000x its own weight in water,” says Esthetician Allison Shoemaker.

How Does Conductive Gel Activate The Current?

Biologic cells must maintain the ability to receive, process, and transmit signals.  It is essential that there is a flow of information between all cells to enable them to respond and grow without impairment.  During each phase of life, especially during the natural aging process or health impairment, cell-to-cell signaling may degrade and weaken.  This is influenced by genetics, environment, lifestyle, behavioral, nutrition including water intake, and overall health. Non-invasive microcurrent uses low voltage electricity to create a small electrical field to help increase the permeability of the cell membrane, encourage circulation, muscle tightening/lengthening, and cell energy by boosting ATP

2 REASONS TO SWAP YOUR ‘C’ SERUM IN THE WINTER

It’s the time of year when we all could use more glow. Historically, winter skin is dull and dry, which means winterizing your skincare routine is essential to promote dewey soft and supple skin all winter long.  This is the time to make the switch: put aside your l-ascorbic acid vitamin C serum and switch to a fatty-based ester C serum.  WHY DO WE NEED A DAILY VITAMIN C SERUM? This amazing ingredient plays an important role in preventing visible signs of photoaging — and there is decades of research on the results! As a potent antioxidant, it helps quench

BENEFITS OF BIOMECHANICAL VIBRATIONS FOR YOUR SKIN

While most of Methode Brigitte Kettner’s products are designed for the face, neck, and décolletage—biomechanical vibrations are designed to tone the entire body. When utilized in one of our multi-modality devices, you can tighten and tone crepy skin, smooth cellulite, and rejuvenate skin. WHAT ARE BIOMECHANICAL VIBRATIONS? Biomechanical vibrations are hyper-targeted and pain-free rapid vibrations. The vibrations stimulate your connective tissue and muscles. You feel nothing other than a gentle buzz, but your device vibrates 6,000 to 7,000 times per minute depending on the speed setting. WHEN TO CONSIDER BIOMECHANICAL VIBRATIONS? While you will see and feel results after just one

WHY SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR SKINCARE PRODUCTS WITH GREEN TEA?

Green tea has been a popular ingredient since ancient times, due to its various health benefits. People drink green tea to help with weight loss, relieve cold or flu symptoms, and provide various other benefits. But in addition to those benefits, topical application of Green Tea to the skin has many benefits. With its soothing qualities, anti-aging, oxidant properties, and oil-control properties, Green Tea is KEY for healthy skin. Green tea is a fantastic NATURAL skincare ingredient when it comes to the treatment and prevention of skin-related issues. It is rich in vitamins and antioxidants that can deliver calming and

Types of Waxing Techniques Every Professional Should Know

From head to toe, people invest in all kinds of hair removal processes. A wax artist will quickly find out in their career is what the most requested services are. These typically include full leg, bikini line, full bikini, and Brazilian waxing. Because these types of waxing are so popular, Bombshell Wax considers them the types of waxing techniques every professional should know. Offering the most popular waxing services, in addition to having quality customer service and salon-grade depilatory wax, is sure to create a strong clientele relationship in no time. Full Leg Waxing As the name implies, full leg

The Science Behind the Gua Sha Massage

We can always count on a gua sha massage to get our blood flowing (literally); but how does this massage actually work? Today we are diving into the science behind the gua sha massage, so you don’t have to! Let’s start by briefly going over what this massage is and where it originated. The gua sha massage is an ancient Chinese practice that was used to promote healing in the body by using a tool with a rounded edge. This tool is used by a professional to scrape/rub the skin in long strokes while applying pressure. The traditional stone tool

SCIENCE OF SKINCARE: POLYGLUTAMIC ACID

Have you heard of Polyglutamic acid (PGA), one of the cutting-edge technologies in skincare?!? PGA has stirred up an internet frenzy because of its ability to absorb up to 5,000 times its own weight in water! That means it is an EXTREMELY powerful humectant which can keep the skin hydrated and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. This breakout natural ingredient in skincare is non-toxic, biodegradable, water-soluble, even edible! Here is everything you need to know about this Hero ingredient! Don’t forget to check out both of Hale Cosmeceuticals products which have harnessed the unique power of PGA! Their Multi-vitamin Eye

Crystals & Chakras

When embarking on your crystal journey to bring harmony to yourself or others here are some guidelines to keep in mind. Crystals are everywhere these days and it’s wonderful to see these natural beauties doing such great things for the energy of those who choose to use them. Crystals and stones do their best work when aligned with the chakras or energy centers of the body. Let’s take a look at the chakras, where they are located and what crystals are going to best support each energy center. Root Chakra – Located at the base of the spine and pelvic

6 Ways to Prepare for Holiday Retail Sales in Your Spa

As estheticians, it’s important to think ahead and to be prepared; especially when it comes to the holiday season. Whether you’ve just started brainstorming or truly don’t know where to begin, we’ve got you! Today we are sharing some of our best tips to prepare for holiday retail sales in your spa! Be selective and stock up on the right products In order to decide what to include in your inventory, you’ll want to stop and think first. What is your budget? What is popular? What were sales like last year? When should I buy these items? We recommend starting

The Estheticians Guide: Adding waxing to your practice ❤️

Estheticians, beauty students and salon owners alike, have all noticed the increasing waxing trends of 2022! More people than ever are getting waxed, and the increasing demand is steering Estheticians to ask themselves… Should I start waxing now too, or add it to my practice? Watching social media get taken by storm with waxing videos, demos, glitter, it’s hard to know where to even start. It’s no question, these services gain a lot of attention and we all know why! The unconventional world of Body waxing has everyone talking about taking a trip to Brazil! 😂 So, you want to

Rhinoplanophobia* | Definition: The fear of dermaplaning the nose.

Rhinoplanophobia*  Definition: The fear of dermaplaning the nose Use in a sentence: I would dermaplane your nose but I have rhinoplanophobia. *Ok, I just made that up. It’s a fear of dermaplaning the nose and many of you have it! Let’s tackle that fear and make it a strength. When I was taught to dermaplane I asked about dermaplaning the nose and the instructor said, “No, we do not dermaplane the nose.” End of story. That got me curious. The nose needs to be dermaplaned so there must be a way! (extends fist into air!) There is! Dermaplaning the nose

Waxing Became a Thing? | Historically Hair Free

Humanity has a deeply “rooted” history with unwanted body hair that stretches far back into the folds of time and is not anything new. For years, women and men throughout history have opted to rid themselves of unwanted hair whether it be for aesthetics, cultural and religious traditions, social norms, and personal preference, according to the Encyclopedia of Hair.   Beginning around 4000 to 3000 B.C., the earliest records of body hair removal can be traced to the Mediterranean and Oriental cultures. Women were mixing arsenic sulphide, quicklime, starch and water into a paste-like depilatory to rid themselves of unwanted hair.

Science Behind Microcurrent Facial Toning Part 1 of 2

Facial toning is a topic of conversation amongst most age groups in which the treatments have evolved over the past several decades. We have gone from facial toning yoga exercises to pricey “As Seen on TV” gimmicks. Add to that, the ever increasing need for the facial toning options to be minimally or non-invasive. Facial toning devices include: Microcurrent devices Radio frequency devices Ultrasonic devices The million-dollar question that often gets asked is “How do microcurrent facial toning devices fare and do they really work”? The short answer is yes. Let’s break this answer into 2 parts: First, let’s understand

What is an Octopeel & Why do you need it?

if you know, you know & if you don’t, we’re here to tell you. What on Earth is an Octopeel? The Octopeel Enzyme Peeling Mask is a multi-use chemical exfoliant created with estheticians and clients in mind. A powerful yet gentle tri-action enzyme peel made up of the following: Oat Flour: Mildy Exfoliating Bentonite: Detoxifying Titanium Dioxide: Used to protect the skinfrom UVA and UVB radiation Pineapple Fruit Extract: Anti-inflammatory enzyme Glycine: Soothing essential amino acids also found in plants Lipase: Breaks down sebum into oleic acid, increasing cell production Lactose: Dissolves dead skin cells, while hydrating and nourishing Zea

Why Gua Sha Might Be Your New Favorite Tool

What is Gua Sha? If you are not already familiar with facial Gua Sha, it’s time to get to know this ancient Chinese facial sculpting technique. Dating back centuries, Gua Sha has been used by acupuncturists and traditional Chinese medicine doctors to help alleviate everything from heat stroke and headaches to the common cold as well as body aches and pains. The word “Sha” refers to the redness on the skin that appears after the treatment and ultimately triggers the skin to renew itself. The aesthetic benefits of Gua Sha were discovered almost by accident. When acupuncturists performed the Eastern

The Eyes are the Window to the Soul: Illuminate Them

‘Tis the season to develop bags under the eyes. Let’s face it, with winter coming up, the eyes are coming down. This is completely normal, as eyes are affected by lack of sunlight and vitamin C during these colder times. The state of the eyes plays a major role in our youth and failure to maintain them can cause one to look older and more tired. The eyes are the window to the soul, so I wanted to introduce one of my favorite products, Illuminating Eye. This is E.F. Tropic’s 5 in 1 eye treatment that effectively lightens, tightens, lifts,

4 Ways To Make Waxing More Comfortable for Your Clients

Waxing can feel a bit uncomfortable, and for some, it may even hurt a bit. However, knowing these four ways to make waxing more comfortable for your clients ensures they have a great experience. Customers book visits to your business with the expectation of a great experience! Surpass their expectation with a few tips from seasoned professionals. Leave a Great First Impression When a customer comes into your salon or spa, greet them with professionalism. Everyone should feel welcome, especially first-timers, so introduce yourself. Then, as you walk them back to receive your service, get to know them or ask

Got Psoriasis? bFREE with PsoFree

Chances are you or someone you know is living with Psoriasis. This autoimmune disease effects 80% of Americans and is a lifelong battle. Unlike other autoimmune issues that attack the body internally, Psoriasis is extra challenging as it shows up in the form of rashes on the skin. Many with this disease not only suffer from physical discomfort but also the emotional distress of having these blemishes on the skin. Since we at E.F. Tropics specialize in skincare, we wanted to develop a product for Psoriasis. Our mission is to make everyone feel beautiful and comfortable in their skin and

Dermaplaning & Edges

Edges are everything in dermaplaning. Ok, not everything –but they are really important to your mid-higher Fitzpatrick clients.

Candle Care 101

Who here has purchased a candle that smells so delicious that you’re too scared to burn it? We know we definitely have! Lucky for you, we have experience caring for candles and these simple tips + tricks will help make your candle last longer so you can get the most out of it!

What to Know Before You Get a Microcurrent Facial

Microcurrent facials are quickly picking up momentum in the beauty and aesthetics industry (and for good reason!). This non-invasive facial lifting and toning treatment has shown breathtaking anti-aging results time and time again but has also been known to improve acneic skin conditions, scarring reduction, and evening skin tone.

Antioxidants: Eat the Rainbow for Fabulous Skin

There are many connections to be made between skin health and diet, and my very favorite subject to teach about is how plant foods support and protect the skin. Today I would like to share some ideas for how you can incorporate more plant foods into your diet to help improve your health and also make your skin look gorgeous.

The Importance of Exfoliation

Exfoliation is an often underestimated part of skincare and beauty routines. It is the process of removing dead skin cells that can clog your pores, decrease cell regeneration, and increase oil, acne, and breakouts. A professional facial and other beauty treatments will exfoliate your skin, but exfoliation must be part of your weekly at-home beauty routine.

The Benefits of Enzymes

What are enzymes? Why are they so important? Enzymes frequently get overlooked since it can be difficult to understand how they work or what their job is. However, this chemical plays such a vital role in improving our physical health and can contribute to overall healthier, youthful skin. There are many uses for enzymes, for everything from vitamins to skincare peels. Let’s explore how they can be used to improve the skin.

Chemical Peels

A chemical peel is an acid solution that is applied to the skin. It dissolves the outermost layer of skin cells, which then peels off over the following days to reveal the fresher, younger layer below. Peels are very effective in treating a large range of skin concerns such as aging, sun damage, acne, mild scarring, improving skin brightness, and evening skin tone.

Glycolic Acid Chemical Peels

Even with all the advances, technology, and procedures available in skin care, chemical peels continue to be a mainstay in the esthetics industry. With so many types of peels on the market, there’s a peel for everyone.

Why Would I Need a Microcurrent Treatment?

If you are recommending microcurrent facials as part of your treatment plan for a client (or if you are a client who has heard about this treatment) the question we will inevitably face is, “why would I need a microcurrent facial?” The answer will most likely vary based on the client’s overall skin concerns, but never forget these three key benefits of microcurrent treatments.

Ask Dr. Tessa: Steam Machines

Dr. Tessa Crume is an Associate Professor in the Epidemiology Department at the Colorado School of Health at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. Dr. Tessa has answered some burning questions in the industry right now.

Loving the Skin You’re In After (and Before) Forty!

There are a lot of perks that come with getting older (despite what the media will have you believe!). Any savvy 40-something will tell you, sure you might have a couple more greys than you did a few years ago, but in turn, you have much, much more— like knowledge of your own self-worth, a fantastic sense of humor, and confidence you probably didn’t have back in your twenties. In fact, one might even say that the forties are in fact, the new twenties.

Facials for Your Fanny

Is your fanny ready for swimsuit season? Have you looked? Many of us don’t pay much attention to the skin on our behinds until it’s time to hit the pool or beach, but a little care now can help you look your best in that swimsuit when it’s time to bare it all.

The Difference Between Microcurrent & Radiofrequency

You asked and we heard you! There has been much discussion on what exactly the differences are between the effects of microcurrent treatment and radio frequency treatment. In this blog we’ll share a brief summary of each treatment, and give a quick comparison of the two!

C.I.D.E.S.C.O. USA

C.I.D.E.S.C.O. USA & The EC have partnered to bring our members advanced education and certifications to enhance your careers and esthetic knowledge.

How the coronavirus is affecting your skin

In addition to the well-known symptoms of Covid-19—fever, dry cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, and a sudden loss of taste or smell— doctors are now describing a variety of skin conditions that may accompany the illness. These skin manifestations include “covid toes”—toes that look blue, or frost-bitten—and various types of rashes—from tiny “hives-like” red spots to larger flat or raised lesions.

Return to Business

In response to the current health crisis, there are recommended changes to existing day to day protocols which must be updated for safety.

Modern Wellness in a Time of Coronavirus

COVID-19 and the recommendations for preventing its transmission have underscored the importance of good self-care. They’ve also demonstrated why caring for oneself isn’t selfish; it’s actually one of the kindest things we can to protect the health of everyone around us. (And conversely, caring for our collective health is also the best thing for each of us as individuals!)

Business Building During COVID-19

We are only a few months into 2020 and life as we know it has completely changed. In a growing number of states schools are closed, only essential stores are open, and many of us have been required to stay home. Needless to say, professional facials and spa treatments are basically on hold until we can flatten the curve of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Pass the CBD, please.

In the last few years, CBD has been making headlines and hitting shelves everywhere. If you haven’t tried it yet, you may be asking “what’s all the buzz about?” Well, topical CBD is proving to be a powerful ingredient for improving many different and unique skin conditions.

Is it time to cleanse your Instagram?

Have you heard of Instagram cleansing? It’s basically spring cleaning for a company’s Insta account. This is an essential practice for businesses to ensure that they make the most of their time on the platform.

January Content Calendar

It’s January! The beginning of a new year and in this case a new decade. The first month of a new year always feels like an opportunity for a fresh start.

Face & Body Southeast 2020

Face & Body Southeast: Don’t miss it! What are you doing Feb. 8-10, 2020?

Face & Body Southeast 2020 will be the spa industry event to attend this winter, with its debut co-location with Bronner Bros., more education than ever before, three days of inspiring free keynotes and a showfloor full of innovative exhibitors that can’t wait to speak with you.

Earn $150 In 15 Minutes

What would you do if you could earn $75 in just 15 minutes in your skincare business? What if you were able to earn a whopping $150 in 15 minutes in your skincare business? We’re sure that you’d jump on the opportunity!

Frequency & Reach

Marketing blogs and articles often highlight the challenges of creating content, the importance of planning ahead and the most useful tools and applications needed for success (all important topics of course). However, there are two concepts that deserve a little more of our attention, frequency and reach.

Target Audience

I think we can all agree that the subject of marketing can seem overwhelming. Generating new business, gaining followers, or promoting an unknown treatment can all feel like impossible tasks. Especially when others appear to have effortless success. But seriously, how did Karen get over 700 likes already? 😉

Face & Body Midwest 2019

Skin Inc.’s Face & Body Spa Expo and Conference is dedicated to providing spa professionals with job-critical education through our Advanced Education Conference, supplier classes and Skin Inc. LIVE! Stage presentations. Offering hands-on treatment demos, networking experiences and access to the latest products in the industry, Face & Body provides opportunities for spa professionals grow and see profits.

The Hero with 1000 Facemasks: Part 6

My favorite addiction!

Nothing in skincare is more addictive than face masks for an Esthetician…. deciding which one to use can be a daunting task! And this is not true only for us skincare professionals, but for consumers as well. My short answer is, why choose? If they are of high quality…use them all!

The Hero with 1000 Facemasks: Part 5

My favorite addiction!

Nothing in skincare is more addictive than face masks for an Esthetician…. deciding which one to use can be a daunting task! And this is not true only for us skincare professionals, but for consumers as well. My short answer is, why choose? If they are of high quality…use them all!

The Hero with 1000 Facemasks: Part 4

My favorite addiction!

Nothing in skincare is more addictive than face masks for an Esthetician…. deciding which one to use can be a daunting task! And this is not true only for us skincare professionals, but for consumers as well. My short answer is, why choose? If they are of high quality…use them all!

The Hero with 1000 Facemasks: Part 3

My favorite addiction!

Nothing in skincare is more addictive than face masks for an Esthetician…. deciding which one to use can be a daunting task! And this is not true only for us skincare professionals, but for consumers as well. My short answer is, why choose? If they are of high quality…use them all!

The Hero with 1000 Facemasks: Part 2

My favorite addiction!

Nothing in skincare is more addictive than face masks for an Esthetician…. deciding which one to use can be a daunting task! And this is not true only for us skincare professionals, but for consumers as well. My short answer is, why choose? If they are of high quality…use them all!

The Hero with 1000 Facemasks: Part 1

My favorite addiction!

Nothing in skincare is more addictive than face masks for an Esthetician…. deciding which one to use can be a daunting task! And this is not true only for us skincare professionals, but for consumers as well. My short answer is, why choose? If they are of high quality…use them all!

Yoga

“Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.”
–The Bhagavad Gita

“Some days you eat salads and do yoga.
Some days you eat cupcakes and refuse to put on pants.
It’s called balance.”

–Some witty Instagrammer