Which treatment is right for me? Winter planning for anti-aging treatments...

During the winter months we usually are spending less time outside and experiencing less exposure to the sun on a daily basis. This makes the winter the perfect time of year to plan for spa treatments that may be a little more intensive. At Wholelistic we don’t use conventional chemical peels during our treatments but we do have a few types of appointments that help to speed up the results of your skin journey. Below you will find some details about 3 different treatments to help you decide if one might be right for you!

  • Microchanneling- This treatment utilizes a micro-needle device that creates tiny channels into the epidermis to encourage deeper penetration of a specific stem cell serum. This serum communicates with your skin’s cells as they regenerate and delivers specific information to encourage optimal renewal. There is no downtime associated with this treatment which makes it convenient to add to your busy calendar.

    • Who is it for? - Anyone interested in targeting hyperpigmentation from sun damage, acne scarring or melasma. Anyone that is concerned about skin laxity and fine lines. Anyone that wants a little boost to their already stellar skin care routine to continue to support the healthy production of the skins natural collagen.

    • Things to keep in mind- you will definitely be able to see glowy results from one microchannel session and the BEST results come from a series of three treatments spaced 4 weeks apart. Each treatment cost includes a Home Care Kit so you can feel confident that you are giving your freshly treated skin all of the support it needs for optimal results. The cost of one treatment is $400. Dermaplane can be added on for $30 and this year we are also offering a Lip Plumper add-on for $35. If you are interested in doing the series of treatments, you can purchase the package for $1,000 which gives you a total savings of $200!

  • Plasma Fibroblast- This treatment utilizes a Plasma Arc device that uses electricity to create a precise lightning bolt of plasma energy that allows us to treat extremely specific areas. The arc creates superficial micro burns in a customized pattern to accomplish very precise skin tightening. In addition to the superficial effect, the plasma arc stimulates the fibroblasts located deep within your skin’s matrix. Those fibroblasts are responsible for creating new collagen! Visible results can be seen immediately after treatment but the full results can be seen three months after the treatment as it takes that long for the newly created collagen to move up to the surface of the tissue. There is some downtime associated with this treatment. You can expect to be able to see some swelling and superficial marks for 3-7 days depending on the size of the area treated and the speed at which your skin heals.

    • Who is it for? - Anyone that wants to target deeper wrinkles, scar tissue, skin laxity and fine lines. This is not a good treatment option if you tend to experience hyperpigmentation or have any conditions that cause the skin to heal slower than normal.

    • Things to keep in mind- This treatment is so specialized to each individual. A consultation is required so your esthetician can verify that this type of treatment will help best accomplish your skin goals. The cost per treatment varies based on the size of the area to be treated but treatment starts at $400. It may be possible to achieve your desired results with one treatment and it may be necessary to repeat the treatment in 3 months once the full results can be seen. Every appointment cost includes a Home Care Kit and 2 follow up check in appointments so your esthetician can monitor your progress and make recommendations on how to proceed.

  • Laurel Abundant Harvest Facial Experience- If those types of intensive treatments aren’t your jam, then you may want to consider this Abundant Harvest Facial. This is as close as we come to a conventional chemical peel style of exfoliation. The super potent whole plant products used in this treatment are all organic and are specifically chosen based on their healing properties as well as how abundant they were during that season’s harvest. This ensures that the products contain the highest amount of active properties as well as helps the small scale farmers utilize their bountiful harvest so nothing goes to waste!

    • Who is this for? - EVERYONE! This is a customizable facial that is perfect for everyone wanting a deeper ritual to nourish their skin during the sluggish winter months.

    • Things to keep in mind- Your esthetician will utilize multiple forms of plant based exfoliation to help encourage healthy cellular turnover so it’s best to avoid any other types of exfoliation the week before and after this treatment. We recommend that you drink plenty of water the day before and the day of the treatment because the lymphatic system is targeted during this treatment in a gentle but VERY effective way. Drinking enough water will support your system in flushing out cellular waste and toxins, giving you the best results of the treatment.

No matter what kind of treatment you choose for yourself (even if it’s just your regular facial, waxing or lash service and not one of the more intensive treatments) we want to thank you and congratulate you on choosing to make your wellness and your skin’s health a priority! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about ANY of our services or products. We are always happy to help you figure out what is best for YOU.

Cheers to the resting and rejuvenating we do during the deep dark winter! We look forward to seeing you soon.

Some areas of my face are dry and some are oily…

For combination skin, it’s important to use products that cater to each area. You can use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer on oily areas and a richer, hydrating one on dry spots. This way, you are addressing the specific needs of each part of your skin.

Ingredients to avoid:

  • Alcohol can be too drying.

  • Fragrances can cause irritation and dryness.

  • Harsh exfoliants can strip natural oils and cause imbalance.

  • Comedogenic oils that can clog pores in oily areas.

Two of our favorites for combination skin are the Esse Nourish Moisturizer and the herbal skin solutions hydrating vitamin C serum.

Unlocking the Secrets of Mandelic Acid, your skincare ally

Mandelic acid is a skincare superhero that known for its gentle yet effective properties. Whether you're new to skincare or a specialist, understanding how mandelic acid works can transform your routine.

What is mandelic acid?

Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. It's known for its larger molecular structure, which means it penetrates the skin more slowly and evenly than other AHAs like glycolic acid. This makes it less irritating and a fantastic option for sensitive skin types.

The science behind mandelic acid:

Mandelic acid works by exfoliating the skin. This means it helps to slough off dead skin cells from the surface, revealing the fresh, new skin underneath. But how does it do this, and what benefits can you expect?

  • Exfoliation: Mandelic acid gently loosens the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting their natural shedding process. This helps to clear clogged pores, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and create a smoother skin texture.

  • Antibacterial Properties: Unlike some other AHAs, mandelic acid has antibacterial properties. This makes it particularly effective for those struggling with acne, as it helps to reduce the bacteria responsible for breakouts.

  • Even Skin Tone: Mandelic acid is excellent at fading hyperpigmentation and dark spots. By accelerating cell turnover, it encourages the skin to produce new, evenly pigmented cells, resulting in a more uniform complexion.

    Benefits of mandelic acid:

    Now that we understand how mandelic acid works, let’s explore the benefits mande;ic acid brings to our skincare routines:

  • Gentle on Sensitive Skin: Due to its larger molecular size, mandelic acid penetrates the skin slowly, minimizing irritation and making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

  • Acne Fighter: Its antibacterial properties help combat acne-causing bacteria, making it a great ally for those with acne-prone skin. It also helps to regulate sebum production, reducing the likelihood of future breakouts.

  • Brightening Effect: Regular use of mandelic acid can lead to brighter, more radiant skin. It effectively reduces dark spots, sun damage, and melasma, giving you a more even and luminous complexion.

  • Anti-Aging: Mandelic acid promotes collagen production, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. This helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, keeping your skin looking youthful.

how to incorporate mande;ic acid into your routine:

adding mandelic acid into your skincare routine is simple, but it’s important to do it correctly to reap the full benefits without over-exfoliating.

Start Slow: If you’re new to mandelic acid, start by using it 2-3 times a week to allow your skin to adjust. You can gradually increase the frequency as your skin builds tolerance.

  • Cleanse First: Begin with a gentle cleanser to remove any impurities from your skin. Pat your face dry before applying mandelic acid.

  • Apply Mandelic Acid: Use a serum or toner containing mandelic acid. Apply a few drops to your face, avoiding the eye area. Follow the instructions on the product packaging for the best results.

  • Moisturize: After the mandelic acid has absorbed into your skin, follow up with a hydrating moisturizer to keep your skin nourished and protected.

  • Sun Protection: AHAs can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

    Mandelic acid is a versatile and gentle exfoliant that offers a range of benefits, from combating acne to brightening and anti-aging. By understanding how it works and incorporating it correctly into your routine, you can unlock the door to healthier, more radiant skin. Remember, consistency is key, and always listen to your skin’s needs.

The benefits of lactic acid for your skin

Today, you will learn more about lactic acid and its benefits for your skin. you will soon understand why lactic acid is a must-have in your skincare routine.

What is lactic acid?

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk, although it can also be synthetically produced. It's known for its gentle exfoliating properties, making it a popular ingredient in many skincare products. But don't let the word "acid" scare you! Lactic acid is one of the milder AHAs, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.

How does lactic acid work?

Lactic acid works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface of your skin. This process is called exfoliation. When these dead cells are removed, it reveals the fresher, newer skin underneath. Regular use of lactic acid helps to promote a smoother, brighter, and more even complexion.

Benefits of lactic acid:

  1. Exfoliation and Skin Renewal

    • As mentioned, lactic acid exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells and encouraging cell turnover. This leads to a more radiant complexion and helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

  2. Hydration

    • Unlike some exfoliants that can dry out your skin, lactic acid has hydrating properties. It helps to keep the skin moisturized, making it an excellent choice for those with dry or dehydrated skin.

  3. Improves Skin Texture

    • Regular use of lactic acid can significantly improve the texture of your skin. It smooths out rough patches and reduces the appearance of bumps, giving your skin a more refined look.

  4. Brightens and Evens Skin Tone

    • Lactic acid can help to lighten dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Over time, this leads to a more even skin tone and a brighter complexion.

  5. Boosts Collagen Production

    • Lactic acid stimulates collagen production, which is essential for maintaining the skin's firmness and elasticity. This helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

    How to use lactic acid:

    Now that you know the benefits, let's talk about how to incorporate lactic acid into your skincare routine.

    1. Start Slow

      • If you're new to lactic acid, start with a lower concentration (around 5-10%) to see how your skin reacts. You can gradually increase the concentration as your skin builds tolerance.

    2. Frequency

      • Begin by using lactic acid products once or twice a week. As your skin adjusts, you can increase the frequency to every other day or even daily, depending on your skin's needs and tolerance.

    3. Application

      • Lactic acid can be found in cleansers, toners, serums, and peels. Choose a product that fits your routine. Apply it after cleansing and before moisturizing. If you're using a lactic acid peel, follow the instructions carefully and avoid overuse.

    4. Sun Protection

      • Lactic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Always wear sunscreen during the day to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Who should be using lactic acid?

Lactic acid is suitable for most skin types, but it's particularly beneficial for those with dry, sensitive, or mature skin. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may still benefit from lactic acid, but consider alternating it with other exfoliants like salicylic acid.

Lactic acid is a versatile and effective ingredient that can transform your skincare routine. By gently exfoliating, hydrating, and brightening your skin, it helps you achieve a radiant and youthful complexion. Remember to start slow, pay attention to your skin's response, and always protect your skin with sunscreen.

Understanding "acne safe"

What does “acne safe” mean?

acne safe refers to products that are formulated without ingredients that can clog pores, irritate the skin, or cause breakouts. These products are designed to minimize the risk of acne flare-ups and help maintain a clear complexion.

Why is acne safe important?

  • Prevent Clogged Pores: Many skincare products contain ingredients like heavy oils, silicones, and certain types of alcohol that can clog your pores, leading to blackheads and pimples. Acne-safe products avoid these ingredients.

  • Reduce Irritation: Irritation can exacerbate acne. Acne-safe products are typically gentle on the skin, reducing the chances of redness and inflammation.

  • Support Healing: Acne-safe products often contain ingredients that support the healing process of existing acne without causing further damage or irritation.

Common acne safe ingredients:

When looking for acne-safe products, keep an eye out for ingredients known for their non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) properties.

  • Salicylic Acid: A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps to exfoliate the skin and keep pores clear.

  • Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.

  • Niacinamide: Also known as Vitamin B3, helps to soothe and reduce inflammation.

  • Aloe Vera: Provides hydration without clogging pores and soothes irritation.

Ingredients to avoid:

  • Mineral Oil and Lanolin: Heavy oils that can clog pores.

  • Isopropyl Myristate: Often found in lotions and creams, it can be highly comedogenic.

  • Fragrances and Dyes: Can irritate the skin and trigger acne.

Tips for finding acne safe products:

  • Read Labels: Always check the ingredient list. Look for products labeled as "non-comedogenic" or "oil-free."

  • Patch Test: Before using a new product on your face, test it on a small area of your skin to ensure it doesn’t cause a reaction.

  • Consult a Professional: An esthetician or dermatologist can recommend products that suit your specific skin type and concerns.

Choosing acne-safe products is a significant step towards achieving and maintaining clear skin. Remember, everyone's skin is unique, so it might take some trial and error to find what works best for you. Stay patient and consistent with your skincare routine, and you'll see positive results over time.

"Pregnancy Glow with Confidence: Decoding the Safety of Lash Lifts During Pregnancy - What You Need to Know"

While there is no definitive evidence suggesting that lash lifts are harmful during pregnancy, it is generally recommended to err on the side of caution. Pregnancy is a delicate time, and it's important to prioritize the health and safety of both the expectant mother and the unborn baby.

The main concern with any cosmetic procedure during pregnancy is the potential exposure to chemicals and fumes. Lash lift treatments involve the use of solutions and adhesive products that may contain ingredients such as perming lotions and glues. Although these products are typically formulated to be safe for use around the eye area, their effects on pregnancy have not been extensively studied.

Additionally, hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect the structure and growth of hair, including eyelashes. This means that the results of a lash lift may be less predictable during this time, potentially leading to suboptimal outcomes.

Given these factors, it is advisable for pregnant individuals to consult with their healthcare provider before undergoing a lash lift or any other cosmetic procedure. Your healthcare provider will have a comprehensive understanding of your medical history and can provide personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances.

In the absence of clear scientific evidence, it is generally recommended to postpone non-essential cosmetic treatments, including lash lifts, until after pregnancy and breastfeeding. This precaution helps to minimize any potential risks and ensures the well-being of both the mother and the baby.

Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider and follow their recommendations regarding any cosmetic treatments or procedures while you are pregnant. Their guidance will help you make informed decisions that prioritize your safety and the health of your baby

Do I need to double cleanse?

Yes, double cleansing can be beneficial. It thoroughly removes makeup and impurities, improves skin health, enhances absorption of skincare products, and helps maintain a balanced skin.

We have a couple recommendations if you want to incorporate double cleansing into your routine. The Laurel Skin Oil Cleanser is a great first cleanse for all skin types. It helps to melt away makeup and debris and even black heads (with consistent use).

For dry or mature skin we recommend the Esse Sensitive Cleanser as your second cleanse. For oily or combination skin we recommend the Esse Gel Cleanser as your second cleanse.

Age-Defying Glow: Essential Skincare Tips for Your 20s and Beyond to Achieve Radiant and Healthy Skin without Botox!

There is so much pressure on you from society to stay young. You need to look 22 for the rest of your life! At all cost! (obviously this is NOT what we believe in our practice)

You have probably been seeing tips and tricks all over social media promoting “preventative botox” , Retinols & other “anti-aging” procedures. Maybe some of your friends are even talking about these things and testing the waters. As professional holistic minded estheticians, we don’t think you need to invest your money in all that just yet…

First of all, the recommendations that follow are not coming from a place of judgement. We support and celebrate bodily autonomy and your right to choose what, how and who gets access to your divine vessel!

We just want to give you all of the information we have surrounding skin health/supportive care so you can make informed decisions!

Botox is short for Botulinum Toxin. It contains the purified neurotoxin type A from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum 1. The scientific name for Botox is onabotulinumtoxinA, which is one of seven different botulinum toxin strains that are produced from the same bacterium 1. The toxin is composed of a heavy chain (H) and a light chain (L), connected by a disulfide bond, and is produced as part of the bacterium’s metabolic pathway.

This neurotoxin blocks signals between the nerves and muscles, temporarily paralyzing the affected muscles.

When it is marketed as a wrinkle ‘preventative’ what that means is that the toxin paralyzes specific muscle groups of the face so you can’t make the facial expressions that, over time, would lead to a weakening of the collagen matrix causing a wrinkle. Imagine what it’s like when you fold a piece of paper in the same spot over and over again. Eventually, that crease becomes weak enough that even when laid flat, you can still see the crease. That’s what can happen to our skin matrix over time.

So, it seems like botox is a great idea! Prevent the wrinkle from ever forming! I wish it was that simple… You know that I LOVE a good preventative measure but from a holistic standpoint, paralyzing the muscle is going to lead to stagnation and muscle atrophy. Meaning, if your muscle doesn’t get a chance to move or get stronger it will become completely weakened and unable to support the surrounding tissue.

Because of how botox binds to certain receptor sites on nerve endings, this is actually an irreversible treatment. It prevents the nerves from activating the muscles. Botox binds to these sites permanently, and there’s no known treatment that can reverse the effects. These nerve receptors dull with age and so…

Botox only works on your muscles until around age 65 at which point it becomes ineffective. If you have been paralyzing your muscles for, lets say, over 30 years and then you stop, what’s going to happen to those muscles? They will be weak and droopy, aging you overnight. The cosmetic industry will tell you not to worry about that and they have plenty of corrective procedures you can buy from them down the line…hmmmm….that sounds like a good way for them to ensure their bottom line for years to come…

Ok! What can you do instead of botox??

Encouraging healthy tissue function, strong facial muscles & supportive topical skincare is where we focus our attention from a holistic standpoint to prevent unwanted signs of aging. Silicone patches like the Silc Skin patches we carry help to minimize lines and wrinkles by bringing your skins hyaluronic acid to the surface and ‘casting’ the muscle groups to help encourage minimal movement while still allowing you to make facial expressions. (We also THOROUGHLY embrace all the lines and wrinkles that come with a beautiful healthy aging face & don’t subscribe to the patriarchal expectations of youth being the only virtue of value, but that’s for another post…)

In your 20s

  1. Get facials at least quarterly - Find an esthetician that matches your vibe and trust their suggestions on what your skin needs. In your 20s your cellular turnover is still accelerated so getting a facial treatment once per season is usually enough, unless there is already some damage or specific concerns you are experiencing.

  2. SPF Daily - yes, I know, I’m a broken record. You do also need to expose your skin to the suns rays in order to encourage the production of vit D and support the microbiome of the skin. BUT, it’s a good idea to get in the habit of applying a mineral spf to your face, neck, chest and back of hands every day. This is one of the BEST preventative measures you can take.

  3. Dial in your daily ritual - finding the cleanser, toner, exfoliant & moisturizer that is best for your skin and using them as recommended will help so much in the long run! Other than a good antioxidant serum, you don’t need to worry about a big elaborate skincare routine yet. Learn about at home techniques like Gua Sha, lymphatic brushing and facial massage to help keep the tissue healthy. Keep it simple and keep it consistent.

  4. Treatments - Treatments that focus on overall wellness and skin health are what we would recommend at this stage. Lymphatic drainage, enzyme exfoliation, Light therapy, Abhyanga, etc.

In your 30s

  1. Get facials monthly - Once you enter your 30s your cell turnover rate begins to slow down. Now is the time to step up your game and start getting facials on a monthly basis. Find an esthetician that matches your vibe and trust what they recommend!

  2. SPF Daily - This should not be a surprise…

  3. Add treatment serums - Now is the time to consider adding more supportive topical serums as well as facial massage techniques (gua sha, lymphatic brushing, facial massage) to your daily ritual. We love a good Bakuchiol serum to support cellular turnover without irritation! You should also include an antioxidant serum and perhaps a hydrating serum depending on skin type.

  4. Treatments - In addition to regular monthly facials, we recommend some type of collagen stimulating treatment like the Microchanneling we offer that uses tiny needle points to push stem cell & epidermal growth factor serum into the tissue.

In your 40s and beyond

  1. Monthly facials - Monthly treatments with your esthetician will allow you to be able to focus on any areas of concern that you may have. Be open and upfront about any concerns and skin conditions so we can put together the most effective treatment plan.

  2. SPF Daily - Honestly, duh, but I’m gonna list it anyway. Even if you spent your youth baking in the sun without a care, it’s important to start making spf protection a daily thing.

  3. Supportive skincare - cleansers, toner and hydrators that are appropriate for your skin type and concern. Antioxidant serums, hydrating serums and “anti-aging” serums like Bakuchiol will support healthy tissue function and cellular turnover. Living probiotic serums may also be beneficial to reboot your skins microbiome!

  4. Treatments - Microchanneling for fine lines, general retexturing and pigmentation, Plasma fibroblast for deeper lines and sagging skin, Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Buccal facial massage techinques for healthy tissue and holistic face lifts.

No matter what stage of life you are in or the condition of your skin, we can help change the look and feel of your skin! Trusting a professional and allowing us to build ideal treatment plans and routines for you will help keep you looking and feeling your best so you are less likely to be tempted by the ‘quick fix’ of injecting toxins into your face…

We love you!

I hope this information helps. Let me know if you have any other questions!