Pulse July 2015 | Page 48

the country, offering complimentary makeup applications and providing an opportunity for guests to meet Red Door Spa’s makeup artists. “My personal favorite is our ‘Makeup Lesson.’ This is a time we spend with our guests to get to know what they really want and need. I believe what differentiates us from other brands is that we offer a more intimate and educational environment,” Raasi says. She adds that Red Door Spa’s beauty bar and Custom Color technology, which easily matches foundation with one’s skin tone, help create a customized experience for guests. Finding a good resource partner is an important piece of the puzzle in training and education. “Partner is the keyword. Spa directors should look for someone who is going to provide training support not only in the spa but also offer ON THE CHECKLIST Which ingredients to avoid and which ones to add to your checklist? Hatcher recommends the following: YES, PLEASE! 3 q Ubiquinone (CoEnzyme Q10) This naturally occurring enzyme is found in every living cell of the body. Used daily, CoQ10 can help prevent and reverse the aging process. It stimulates the vital energy necessary for skin cells to heal, protect and rejuvenate themselves, which make the ingredient excellent for post-peel skin healing. 3 q Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C) A stable derivative of ascorbic acid, MAP(Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate) has been shown to suppress melanin formation. Perfect for clients who are prone to hyperpigmentation, it has a protective effect against skin damage by UVB radiation and can be used post-exfoliation, as it frequently has a less acidic pH level than water-based vitamin C. 3 q Hyaluronic Acid This amazing water-binding ingredient can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It pulls moisture from the air, from other products and binds it right into the skin. 3 q Pinus Strobus (Pine) Bark Extract A potent free-radical scavenger and a naturally occurring preservative, it has antioxidant capabilities 50 times greater than vitamin E and 20 times greater than vitamin C. NO, THANK YOU! q 8 Artificial Fragrance Synthetic fragrances, otherwise known as parfum, used in cosmetics can have as many as 200 ingredients. Certain skin conditions caused by these chemicals are hyperpigmentation, skin irritation and sun sensitivity. Many products are labeled as fragrance-free may still have fragrance that mask the scent, so make sure to look for a clean aroma resource, such as aromatherapy, essential oils and plant extracts. q 8 Parabens Used as preservatives, found in many products, is a very inexpensive alternative to cleaner preservative systems such as vitamins and antioxidants. It has been linked to cancer, endocrine disruption and reproductive toxicity. Look for natural types of preservation systems, such as radish root extract. q 8 Phthalates Phthalates are also known as plasticizers, meaning they are derived from plastic. They are banned in the EU and in California in children’s toys; however, they are found in many perfumes, deodorants and makeup products. Phthalates are used to bind products and have been linked to endocrine disruption, liver/kidney/lung damage and cancer. 8 Talc q The process of getting talc into powder form is problematic. When companies melt it down to work it into a powder form, it mimics asbestos which is a highly toxic chemical to the body. Not only is it toxic, it is also extremely drying and dehydrating on the skin, can aggravate acne, as well as disrupt the skin’s pH balance. 46 PULSE n July 2015