bella_beauty

What to Do After a Bikini Wax

becky_pj@yahoo.co.uk (Becky Powis-Jones) — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 09:16:42 GMT

After your bikini wax comes to an end, you'll find the worst part is over and you can enjoy your smooth bikini zone in peace. But if you want to keep up that hair-free aesthetic, you'll need to know what to do after to keep your skin soft, smooth, and healthy. This means no irritation, ingrown hairs or bumps).

What bothers the skin post-wax varies somewhat from person to person. Some people may be more prone to ingrown hairs because of the thickness or curliness of their body hair. Others may have sensitive skin that can become inflamed and irritated after waxing, with even small amounts of heat or friction causing redness. Whatever the case may be, here are some valuable steps that you should take after a body-waxing treatment to keep flare-ups at bay.

Let Your Skin Breathe

This is the most important thing to remember after you wax – let your skin breathe. Avoid wearing tight clothes that obstructs the waxed areas for the first 48 hours after waxing, as they will encourage breakouts and ingrown hairs. We also suggest skipping any fitness classes and activities that can cause friction, irritation, sweat, and bacteria for at least 48 hours following a waxing treatment.

Avoid Soaking the Area

When hair is removed through waxing, the empty follicle is more prone to invasion by bacteria. Feel free to shower after your wax treatment, but don't take a bath or get in any type of a pool for the rest of day after the treatment, as any bacteria or chlorine in the pool water can cause great irritation to the newly waxed area. Also, the extreme heat of saunas and steam rooms that cause you to sweat can disturb your skin and should be avoided right after waxing.

Stay Away from Direct Sunlight

We know that many people opt for bikini waxes so that they can rock a bikini and lounge in the sun… but for at least 48 hours—or until the post-wax redness has gone away—it's incredibly important to stay out of the sun. Why? Because waxing removes skin cells that offer protection from the sun, meaning your skin is more vulnerable to the sun rays. Your skin is at higher risk of burning because of the exfoliation combined with the removal of the hair, which can provide somewhat of a physical block. Also, heightened sun sensitivity can result in dark skin spots (also known as hyperpigmentation).

Don't Exfoliate Too Soon After Waxing

Exfoliating after a waxing treatment can be too abrasive immediately afterward. We recommend you wait around 7 days before exfoliating the waxed area.

Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise

The best defence against ingrown hairs is soft skin so moisturise you skin people. Moisturised skin will be more pliable, and hair will grow out easily. We recommend a 20-minute shower after your wax treatment, and while you're in the shower, use an in-shower oil. Applying oil and lotion on wet skin will allow the product to lock moisture in by trapping some of the water onto the skin.

Wanting a bikini wax?

Simply click HERE , my lovely. I can't wait to see you.

What is Cryotherapy and How Can it Benefit Me?

becky_pj@yahoo.co.uk (Becky Powis-Jones) — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 10:34:32 GMT

Cryotherapy is becoming one of the most popular treatments here at Bella Beauty. In fact, we do more cryotherapy treatments now than we ever have done before. But what is cryotherapy and how can it help you? I wanted to cover this subject in our latest blog because so many of you have asked me about it. So here it is, everything you need to know about cryotherapy.

What is Cryotherapy?

To put simply and without overcomplicating things, Cryotherapy is the removal of skin lesions (such as warts, skin tags, verrucae, cherry Angioma, age spots and milia) through the process of freezing them.

What should you expect during/after the treatment?

We use a device to accurately deliver liquid nitrogen towards the skin lesion you have so it can be removed. The device emits a very fine jet, allowing a much more focused and targeted treatment which results in less unwanted side effects, and a more comfortable procedure.

The procedure lasts only a matter of seconds and although slight discomfort is felt, it does not require anaesthetic and is very well tolerated. The skin lesion will appear white and then thaw back to its original appearance within a minute. Over the next week or two, the skin lesion should scab and fall off. Depending on the nature of the skin lesion involved, it may take more than one procedure for this process to be complete.

What are the side effects of Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy performed by our team is a very safe treatment. Most side effects are very minimal and temporary. These include slight redness, swelling and the possibility of slight oozing or a small blister forming on the skin. Less common side effects, considered to be rare, may include scarring, pigment changes to the area that is treated, or loss of sensation to that part of the skin. Like I say, these are very rare, and we have never had any of our customers experience anything other than slight redness and swelling after the treatment. When performed correctly, cryotherapy is a safe and effective treatment for the removal of specific benign skin lesions.

How can I tell what my skin lesion is?

We recommend all new skin lesions, or changes to any existing skin lesion you have are seen by your GP for diagnosis first. Skin lesions diagnosed as one of those discussed above are suitable for treatment with cryotherapy at Bella Beauty. One of our beauty therapists will be able to look at your skin lesion and advise on its suitability for cryotherapy treatment.

Why remove skin lesions with Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy provides a low risk and fast way of treating particular skin lesions. In many reason people want cryotherapy to removal a skin lesion is because they find it unsightly or embarrassing. And in the case of viral warts, cryotherapy treatment can reduce the chances of them spreading to other areas of the skin. In some cases skin lesions can become a nuisance due to it being itching, swollen or even catching on clothing, which provides another common reason for people seeking cryotherapy to remove it.

How do I book in?

To book in for your cryotherapy treatment, simply click HERE . We look forward to seeing you lovely.

8 Waxing Tips For Men

becky_pj@yahoo.co.uk (Becky Powis-Jones) — Wed, 28 Jul 2021 14:50:06 GMT

In your head, waxing (whether at home or salon), probably just sounds painful and uncomfortable. Ripping, screaming, and of course, that infamous scene from The 40-Year-Old Virgin all come to mind.

But here's the thing: if you're determined to remove your hair, it's gotta come off somehow. And its no simple feat to get the razor to hit the right spot on your back or to avoid an itchy, irritated chest. The only way to stave off those two painful phenomenas is a good, old-fashioned wax.

So, before you grab the wax and go to town, or you book in for waxing at a salon, it's best to know exactly what you need to do before and after to ensure you get the perfect results you want.

Pre-wax Care

Whether you're waxing your legs at home or booking an intimate wax at the salon, the pre- wax care is relatively the same and so very simple. Here's a quick breakdown of what you should do to prepare ahead of time.

Make Sure Your Hair is Long Enough

Are you thinking you should trim your hair or even shave a bit before a wax? Don’t! Give up the razor for at least five days before a wax. It is recommended that you grow out your hair to the size of a grain of rice. Why? Well, if your hair is too short to be “grabbed” by the wax, not all of it will come out. This can make an appointment less effective and more painful for you. So be free, let that body hair grow!

Exfoliate Your Skin Two Days Before

Exfoliating your skin on the lead up to your waxing appointment can remove dead skin build-up and prepare skin for the best waxing results. Exfoliating also ensures that any ingrown hairs will be more accessible during a session so they can be removed from the skin. But when should you exfoliate the skin so it's ready for waxing day? Two or three days beforehand is the sweet spot for exfoliation to prime your skin.

Keep Hydrated

Drinking water is a biggie when it comes to your skin—so it makes sense that hydration is a key to a successful waxing appointment. If your skin is dry, that means your hair is dry too, and your hair could break when you get waxed. Your best bet to keeping hydrated before a wax is to aim for eight glasses of water a day. It is also a great idea to stay away from alcohol and caffeine (both of which can be dehydrating) and use non-comedogenic moisturising skin/body products.

Make Sure You’re Clean

Yes, it's a kindness to your waxer that you arrive fresh and cleansed, but it will also help the wax go more smoothly. Natural oils, sweat, or body lotions can prohibit wax from adhering as well. So clean and dry will ensure you achieve the perfect look you're looking for when it comes to your wax.

Waxing Aftercare

Once you're waxed, it's all about taking extra care and caution for the next 48 hours. Here are 4 things we recommend you avoid or do while your newly waxed skin is at its most sensitive. After that, you should be smooth sailing for the next three to four weeks, when hair typically begins to grow back after a wax.

Stay Out Of The Sun

The first 48 hours after waxing, your already delicate skin is even more vulnerable. So while you may be dying to throw on your swim wear the second you leave the salon, keep in mind that sensitive skin is more susceptible to U.V. rays.

No sweat, sweat, sweating

Bacteria thrives in warm, wet places, and you want to keep your fresh wax as clean as possible. For this reason, it's worth taking a break from any activity that could cause you to sweat for no less than 48 hours. If you sweat heavily into the open, irritated pores, you're going to end up with irritation and spots like you've never seen before.

Opt For Loose Clothing

One thing to keep in mind is that anything tight-fitting can rub raw spots and cause irritation. You'll want to give your skinny jeans and tight briefs a break for at least 48 hours and stick with breathable cotton fabrics, jogging bottoms, and loose-fitting garments only.

Be Selective With Your Skin Care

Stick with gentle, fragrance-free body washes and creams for the first few days after you've waxed. Ingredients found in many lotions and potions can cause irritation to freshly waxed skin. Check your current skincare for products you can still use but, if need be, go out and buy the products that are going to be gentle on the skin.

And Finally...

Don't feel embarrassed, nervous, or ashamed to book in for a waxing treatment. You don't need to be self-conscious, whether you prefer to be hairless or hairy AF. No matter how much hair you prefer, your choice of hair to remove is totally up to you. You should determine whether you want to head to a waxing appointment – and if you do, you should be able to do it proudly. Waxing doesn't need to be a pain, nor does it need to be a shame. Just make sure you take care of the skin before and after your waxing, and you're good to go.

7 Essential Skin Care Tips To Follow This Summer

becky_pj@yahoo.co.uk (Becky Powis-Jones) — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 08:38:32 GMT

Sure, summer is the season to kick back, relax, and enjoy being outside, but it's not the time to slack on your skincare routine. UVA/UVB rays are harmful all year long but are especially damaging during the summer months when our exposure levels are higher thanks to spending free days on the beach, in the garden or at the park.

That's why i t's important to focus on sun and heat, in addition to maintaining your regular skincare routine. But it can be tough to know what to do when it comes to protecting and looking after your skin during these summer months, so I’ve put together 7 essential tips you need to follow this year to help you out. Read on to learn more.

Keep hydrated

Summer is the time when your skin requires more hydration than ever before. So most importantly, make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day. After all, water is the most important ingredient in healthy skin tissue. It keeps your skin supple, soft, and radiant. Remember to drink 2 to 3 litres of water a day.

You also need to invest in good hydrating products which you use a couple of times a week. I highly recommend the Pharma Grade Hyaluronic Serum from the Crystal Clear skin care range as it repairs, rehydrates, and soothes your skin. I also recommend taking supplements to keep your skin hydrated through the summer months. My personal favourite must be the Nutricode C OLLABEAUTY Q10 EXPERT . This product repairs damage from internal damage (hormonal imbalances) as well as the external damages caused by things such as UV exposure. Collagen, Vitamin A & C and Zinc are the key ingredients within this product that naturally slows down the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin, helps support healthy skin, and improves flexibility of your skin. To learn more about the hydrating products and treatments we offer, contact me here .

Include antioxidants in your facial skin care routine

Invest in a good antioxidant serum during the summer. Not only does an antioxidant serum hydrate your skin, but it can also protect your skin from environmental damage. Pollution and other environmental contaminants take away your skin’s natural radiance, leaving it oily, dull, and blemished, so it’s important you use a product that protects your skin from this. Antioxidant serums help to boost collagen production and will scavenge harmful free radicals to prevent skin damage. Remember that you can include antioxidants in your skin care regimen by adding them to your diet as well. Stock up on citrus fruits, green vegetables, green tea, nuts, and whole grains to have healthy looking skin.

Exfoliate on a regular basis

Exfoliation is the key to clear, glowing skin. It removes dulling skin debris and piles up dead cells from your body. This debris prevents the skin from breathing and can congest the skin, the complete opposite for what you want. One of my favourite exfoliators on the market to date is again from the Crystal Clear Skin Care range – the Oxygen Face Polish and the Crystal Face & Body Polish. Both see results instantly when it comes to visibly softer and smoother skin. Remember that exfoliation is required for your entire body and not just your face – that’s why the Crystal Face & Body Polish is the perfect purchase to make when it comes to exfoliating your skin. You should, however, make sure to be gentle while exfoliating your skin. Do not over-exfoliate because your skin will get bruised and you may end up getting rashes. People with sensitive skin should opt for mild exfoliators that are tender on the skin. Test the products that work for your skin and your budget. For more information on the exfoliating products, we have to offer here at Bella Beauty, contact me here .

Go makeup free

As the weather is warming up and your more prone to sweating, this is a great time to wear minimal facial makeup to allow your skin to breath. Humidity and heat suppress the skin’s ability to breathe and stress it out, so avoiding anything heavy on the face is recommended. I love my makeup and like to wear it quite often, so I opt to use a tinted moisturiser instead of foundation and a moisturising lip balm instead of a matte lipstick in summer, to give my skin some rest but also feel like me with my makeup still on.

Wear sun cream

Sun cream should be your best friend during the summertime (it certainly is mine). Choose one that has a broad ultraviolet spectrum (between 30-50 SPF and covers UVA and UVB rays). Reapply every three hours if you are spending all day in the sun and make sure to cover your whole body – don’t forget the tops of your ears, I often forget and get sunburnt ears.

I’ll be using the Crystal Clear Skincare Protect & Repair SPF 40 this year and I know I’ll be protected as well as keeping my skin hydrated. Oh, and it has anti-ageing properties which is an added feature I love. If you’d like to know more about this, contact me here .

Change your moisturiser

Come summer, you must ditch those heavy cold creams and shea butter laden moisturisers for a lighter moisturiser. Your skin requires moisture in the summer, so a lighter and non-greasy product should find its way into your skincare routine.

This year, I’ll be using one of my favourite moisturisers of all time – the Crystal Clear Intense Anti-Ageing Moisturiser. It’s lightweight and suitable for all skin types – I use it in the summertime because it leaves my skin looking radiant and fresh, all day long. It’s been hailed ‘Botox in a bottle’ and I can truly stand by that statement. I love it! If you want to know more about the Crystal Clear Intense Anti-Ageing Moisturiser, contact me here .

Remember to take care of the skin on your feet

Your feet have been tucked away in your warm fuzzy socks through the winter so they may need some care and attention. When it’s time to reach for the sandals and flip-flops, don’t forget to tackle those toenails, heels, and anything else left unattended through the winter. This is the right all time to be proactive with your foot care routine. Exfoliate the skin on your feet regularly. Use a moisturiser and sunscreen on your feet if you plan on wearing open footwear.

The Elim Mediheel Pedicure is the treatment every man and woman needs this summer - “The facial for your feet”! The perfect process to tackle rough skin, unattended toenails and much more. If you’d like to book in for the Elim Mediheel Pedicure, get in touch .