Honoring Gift Certificates from Local Salons & Spas that Have Closed

As another year comes to a close, so have some local salons & spas. It saddens us when any local business shuts down, especially another salon. I believe there are enough clients for all of us.

When a salon closes its doors, there are customers who have gift certificates they won’t be able to use or recoup the value. We are pleased to announce that Body Bliss Salon & Spa will honor any gift certificate or gift card from local salons and spas that have recently closed. We will take any gift certificate/card up to $50 in value when you book at least double the value in salon and spa services.

For example, a $50 gift certificate will be honored when you receive $100 in salon or spa services. A $30 gift card would be honored when $60 in services are booked. When making your appointment, please let our receptionist know you are using a gift card from another salon/spa.

This is a small way Body Bliss can help out our fellow salon/spa professionals as well as those in our community who are left with salon/spa gift certificates they want to use.

We also want to reassure our clients that we’re here to stay. We have invested in our salon and our community. We won’t be closing our doors, except briefly for the holidays, so our stylists, therapists and staff can enjoy this time with their families.

Holiday Hours: 

Body Bliss Salon & Spa will be closed December 24th through 26th for Christmas and will re-open on December 29th. 

Then closed on Friday January 1st for New Years Day. 

Other than that, we will be here for you! Thanks for making 2015 a successful year for Body Bliss. We are grateful for your business and we look forward to serving you in 2016. 

11 Tips for De-Stressing over the Holidays

The most favorite time of the year is here!
Parties, shopping, caroling, baking, decorating, cooking. It’s all supposed to bring Joy, Peace and Good Will! Although we may appreciate the Blessings of the Season, for many it can present a most difficult and stressful time. Especially for women, who tend to be the nurturers, who find themselves caring for everyone else, and lastly if at all about themselves, the holiday season can come and go as one big stressful blur. Here are a few suggestions to help make your holiday season Merry & Bright!

1. Get it down on paper. Making a gift and to do list will help you stop the swirling in your head, and keep your gifting on track. I like to call this Brain Dump. We tend to get stressed when we think we have more to accomplish then we actually do or need to. Putting your To Do’s on paper helps you to prioritize and get stuff done!
2. Focus on one Activity at a time: Take the time to smell the Frazier fir! Savor each moment of the holidays from baking cookies to wrapping presents. Try not to jump from one thing to another. Enjoy the smells, tastes and memories you are creating.
3. Breathe! Mindful breathing is one of the best exercises you can do for your health and body. Most folks don’t pay attention to their breathing. This results in mostly taking shallow breaths throughout the day. Over the course of time, this leads to vital oxygen rationing. The body can’t function properly. When you don’t inhale enough Oxygen and exhale enough carbon dioxide…you create brain fog, fatigue, and more. Deep and Mindful breathing helps reduce stress, tension and depression. Take a Deep Breath and Relax!!
4. Gratitude Prayers. Begin and end each day with a Gratitude prayer. Count your Blessings. Remember the reason for the season and make being thankful a daily practice. You will be amazed how calming and beneficial this can be in your life.
5. Exercise: Daily exercise automatically will reduce your daily stress and boost your serotonin levels. Don’t forget to keep it going during the Holidays! Maybe some dancing or ice skating?
6. Sleep: When your body is sleep deprived, it goes into a state of stress. Get those ZZZ’s and have plenty of energy for those Holiday Parties!
7. Eat Healthy. A good whole food diet will keep your energy levels up, prevents weight gain, and keep the nasties from spoiling your fun by boosting your immune system. Good Home Cooking makes for great family memories too! Get the kids to help!
8. Volunteer: There are numerous benefits to “Giving” of your time: It connects you with others, provides a sense of purpose, combats depression, and provides The Happiness Effect. Consider volunteering during the Holidays for those less fortunate, and continue into the New Year.
9. Say No! Don’t over commit yourself. This will give you more time to ENJOY the Holidays!
10. Take Time for YOU. We are usually so busy taking care of others, that we forget about taking time for ourselves. Self-care is so important to de-stress, as well as for Good Health! Take a soothing bath, get a massage, or connect with nature. Your body will thank you!
11. And finally…remember to be PRESENT in all that you do. Put away the phones, Ipads, and all devices. Connect with your families and loved ones instead. Create those treasured memories together.

By Lorraine Miano
Certified Health Coach
http://infiniteyouhealth.com/

Lorraine Miano is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach.
She decided to become a health coach to fulfill her passion and dream of working with people to improve their health and lifestyle. She is especially passionate about working with women in all phases of menopause who have weight, metabolism and aging concerns, so that they can have more energy, less stress and feel comfortable in their own skin.
Lorraine received her training at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition in New York City.
She has studied over 100 dietary theories, practical lifestyle management techniques, and innovative coaching methods with some of the world’s top health and wellness experts.
Her education has equipped her with extensive knowledge in holistic nutrition, health coaching, and preventive health. Drawing on these skills and her knowledge of different dietary theories, she works with clients to help them make sustainable lifestyle changes that produce real and lasting results.
She can help you Get your Happy Back and Live the Life you Crave!

The Benefits of Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a mechanical exfoliation treatment that comfortably removes the superficial dead skin cell layer. Every month we shed these skin cells and as we age this process slows down. By removing the dead skin cell layer we are encouraging new skin cells to replace the old. The light sweeping of the wand across the skin helps loosen and suck up these dead cells. It feels much like a cat’s tougue. This treatment can be controlled in the duration and the sensitivity of the client. The signs of aging that most people complain of are the course dull skin, fine lines and wrinkles, acne scarring and sun damage. Microdermabrasion shows quick results in improving skin texture and pigmentation providing smoother overall appearance. Doing a series of treatments 4 weeks apart helps improve these areas in the skin. Used with a corrective skincare regimen designed for your skin type will give you optimal results.

Blog Post by Kerri O'Brien

Its all about the Eyes!

All About Lash and Brow Tinting

Are your eyelashes and brows a bit underwhelming? Are they nonexistent without a brow pencil or mascara? It may be time to try lash and brow tinting. It is a simple quick treatment that helps darken your natural brow and lash color that will last up to 3-6 weeks. A color is chosen based on your natural hair color for the brows. It is applied with a small paintbrush and left on about 5-10 minutes. After a thorough rinse with warm water, voila, you have brows that are noticeable and natural looking. The shade will fade over the first week because some of the dye is on the skin under the brow. No scrubbing or excessive washing in this area to enable a longer lasting result. Lashes are typically dyed black. If you have contact lenses be prepared to remove them for the treatment. Your eyes will be shut the entire time and the dye then painted on your lashes. After the procedure you will notice that they will be noticeably longer due to the dye enhancing the fine tips. To prolong the lashes use water soluble mascara, or none at all, and do not rub excessively when removing makeup. Avoid UV sun as this will fade them faster.

Blog Post by Kerri O'Brien

FAQ Body Waxing

Common questions about body waxing

We offer many hair removal services such as bikini, brow, lip, chin, under arm and back waxing. We get many questions about waxing so here are some answers to help you figure out if it is right for you.

If I wax will my hair grow in thicker and darker?
No, the hair will actually grow in finer and sparser over time with consistent waxing.


Does it hurt?
A waxing session can be a uncomfortable for some, but the session is quick and over time the skin gets more tolerant and the treatment is not bad at all.


How long will the hair be gone?
If the hair has been growing out for a good month or so, all the stages of hair growth should be outside the follicle. If all the hair is waxed then the regrowth could be between 4 and 6 weeks. This varies person to person. Lighter haired people may be able to go longer between appointments.


Should I shave before my appointment?
NO! If the hair can grow the 1/8-1/4” that would be ideal.


Will my skin be red?
Your skin will be sensitive and pink in color right after the service. A moisturizer and antiseptic lotion will be applied. The redness should subside with a few hours or by the end of the day. Within 24 hours you will most likely be back to normal.


If you have a special event you are waxing for, do your waxing about 3 days before. You want your skin to feel and look normal before your big event. Also, remember to wear sunscreen to protect your newly waxed skin from sunburn.


If you are curious, treat yourself to a waxing service. You can do a small area to see if it is for you. You will marvel at how smooth and soft your skin will feel and you may get addicted to that “clean, hair free” feeling. If it’s not your thing, then no harm done. Your hair will grow back and be just like it was before.

We hope you consider Body Bliss Spa for your next waxing appointment.

Blog Post by Kerri O'Brien

The Benefits of Drinking Water and the Skin

The benefit of drinking water in large amounts for proper skin health is a controversial area. Many believe and have stated that water is very beneficial for proper skin care. The main stated benefit is that drinking a large quantity of water keeps the skin hydrated and prevents dry skin. Claims are also made that drinking water gives the skin a radiant, healthy, younger looking complexion with no wrinkles, and allows skin to maintain its elasticity and suppleness.

However, many experts are now refuting the above-mentioned benefits. Unless the individual is severely dehydrated, drinking large quantities of water will not prevent dry skin. Basically the moisture level of skin is not determined by internal factors. Instead, it is external factors such as skin cleansing, the environment, the number of oil glands, and the functioning of these oil-producing glands that determines how dry the skin is or will become. The water that is consumed internally will not reach the epidermis. In fact, the water moves through the body system rather quickly. If the skin is dry, the best solution is to treat the skin from the outside with a hyarulonic acid serum and dry skin moisturizer. Hyarulonic acid is a natural acid that allows a skin cell to hold 1000 times its weight in water. This has a plumping effect on fine lines and wrinkles. By sealing in a serum with an effective dry skin moisturizer if forms an effective barrier to prevent water loss from the skin.

Blog post by Kerri O'Brien, Head Esthetician 

Revisiting Unwash

I had done a blog post about Unwash back in November. Well we wanted to explore more about this product so we had our sales rep in to help us to do a side by side comparison.

First, lets revisit what Unwash is. The best explanation is in this video below:

Now to our little experiment. We did a side by side comparison in which we washed half the clients hair with Unwash and the other half of their hair with a store brand two in one shampoo/conditioner. Then, we did not add any styling products and dried their hair using only a paddle brush.

Here are the results:

Clients said that they could notice a difference in their hair even when it was still wet. The Unwash side was much easier to comb through and felt very clean. Once dried they said that they Unwash side was much shiner, softer and smoother. They said that they store brand side felt like straw and like it had a wax on it. 

Give Unwash a try for yourself with a haircut! 

Keratin Treatments 101

It is that time of year when humidity will be at its worst. Don't struggle with your hair all season, instead consider getting a Keratin Smoothing Treatment. At Body Bliss Salon & Spa we have a few options for you to meet all your smoothing needs.

The Signature Smoothing Solution (Natural Keratin Smoothing Treatment)
The ultimate smoothing sensation! The award-winning signature treatment from Keratin Complex is a life-changer that reduces frizz and curl, increases manageability, and cuts daily styling time for up to five months. There are two formulas available, regular and one specifically formulated for blondes. You will need to wait 72 hours before shampooing hair after treatment.

The Speedy Smoothing Solution (Express Blow-out)
In just about an hour, this express smoothing service reduces frizz, curl, and daily styling for up to six weeks. You can shampoo your hair 8 hours after receiving treatment.

The Same Day Smoother (Advanced Glycolic Smoothing System)
This unique system utilizes advanced glycolic technology and out signature keratin to deliver smoother, more manageable hair that can be shampooed and styled on the same day! Results last up to three months.

Smooth Meets Color
Smoothing treatments and color can be performed in the same visit! Pre-book any smoothing treatment with a color service and receive an exclusive package deal.

Bang or Spot Treatments
Discover the results of our keratin smoothing treatments on bangs, cowlicks, or problems areas. Usually done with the Express Blow-out solution.

Blog Post by Sarah Boulton

Simple hairstyles to change up your look

I recently had a fun, impromptu styling session with one of my clients and it inspired me to write a post about it.

She has below shoulder length hair and she wanted to come up with some hairstyles that she could wear to work, still be professional but that were different than just her normal straight or curled look.

So here are some of the styles that we went over, Images from Pinterest.

We all remember the topsy tail, well here are two way ways you can bring it back in style with a twist. In the first example you do a regular topsy tail then roll up the rest of your hair and pin. Hair accessory optional. In the second example you do a higher pony tail and then do a reverse topsy tail, then back comb your hair, roll and pin.

We also went over some simple braid styles as well. Braiding just the front section or bang area of your hair has become very popular, you could also do this look and add a side pony tail as well. The second look is just a loose side braid. If you want to create a larger looking braid then after the braid is complete you just lightly tug on the sections, but not too much to pull it apart. 

Blog post by Sarah Boulton

Acne Causing Culprits

We have all been lectured about the importance of having a great skin care regimen to keep a clear complexion. However there may be some secret sources that have been contributing to your acne.

1.Your Makeup brushes
The use of your makeup brushes everyday can leave them covered with residue, oil and bacteria which then can cause breakouts. Makeup artist Kayleen McAdams commented in an article in Elle that makeup brushes should be cleaned every two weeks. In the article they talk about how to properly clean your makeup brushes. Or you can try Glo Minerals brush cleaner.

2. Your Cell phone
Lets face it, we are glued to our cell phones and since they go everywhere with us, they pick up germs and bacteria from everywhere as well. In an article from Womens Health they suggest several ways to prevent your cell phone from causing you breakouts. One of which is the use of headphones, this is great because it will keep the phone away from your face completely. Another suggestion of course is to simply clean your phone. Just wiping it with a microfiber cloth can cut down on the amount of germs on your phone. They also suggest using a UV light sanitizer that is safe for your phone. To read the full article click here.

3.Your Pillow Case
Another culprit is your pillow case. Hopefully, you spend an average of 8 hours per night with your face on it. The first and most important thing to do it wash your face before going to bed. You want to prevent oils and makeup from depositing onto your pillow case. You will also want to launder your pillow case every 2-3 days to keep it clean and fresh. Pillowcases made out of natural fibers are also the best for your skin. Check out this article from the Huffington Post about pillowcases and acne.

4.Your hand
This one might seem really obvious but really think about it. Do you find yourself resting your chin or face in your hand throughout the day? Maybe while you are sitting in a boring meeting. Don't touch your face! Also, wash your hands often or keep hand sanitizer near by.

-Blog Post by Sarah Boulton

March Product Spotlights!

Receive exclusive savings on our March Product Spotlights. This month we want to focus on HYDRATION!

Glo Therapeutics Lip Revival: 10% OFF

Description

Formulated to create fuller, smoother lips, this treatment is rich in active ingredients designed to increase hydration and collagen production while causing a significant volumizing effect.

Recommended For

All skin types.

Directions

Using enclosed spatula, apply to lip area morning and evening for best results. In the morning, let cream remain on lips until absorbed before applying lipstick.

Glo Therapeutics Advanced B5 Hydration: 10% OFF

Description

Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin B5 naturally provide exceptional nourishment and hydration to the skin while Cromoist CM Glucan protects skin from environmental hazards and oxidative stress in addition to aiding in cell renewal.

Size

1 fl oz/ 30 mL

Recommended For

All skin types.

Benefits

Hydration is restored to the skin's surface, creating a healthier, plumper appearance. The skin's ability to create Hyaluronic Acid is stimulated, thereby stabilizing its moisture content over time. Daily use increases the skin's resistance to UV radiation and environmental hazards. Cell renewal is accelerated creating a restored, fresh look. Inflammation is reduced.

Directions

Apply after glo therapeutics Vitamin C serum and before glo therapeutics moisturizer. May be used alone or as a hydrator. Use daily.

Scruples Complete Recovery Treatment Masque: 

• For chemically treated or damaged hair
• Helps nourish, soften and restore elasticity
• Works deep to help repair
• Adds strength, moisture and shine

DIRECTIONS:

Work into clean damp hair 1 - 3 minutes and rinse. For intensive treatment, work into hair 5 - 10 minutes and rinse (heat optional).

Product information provided from http://scrupleshaircare.com/ and http://www.gloprofessional.com/

-Blog Post by Sarah Boulton 

Bands, Clusters and Singles, Oh My!

Eyelash extensions have been a part of the beauty industry for many years. From theater to fashion magazine ads, to the everyday eyelash extension wearer they are indeed a very popular service.

There are three types of eyelash extensions which include: band (strip) lashes, cluster lashes, and individual lashes.

Band lashes are also called "strip" lashes because they represent multiple artificial eyelashes attached to a strip. Band lashes are the most popular for special occasions or everyday wear because they can be applied either by yourself or by a professional. Band lashes are only meant to be worn one time per set and only last one day, generally until you cleanse your face and remove your eye makeup. They come in all varieties from very natural to dramatic, some come with feathers or rhinestones as well.

Cluster lashes contain approximately 3-6 individual lashes that are banded together. Cluster lashes normally have a base point which hold the lashes together know as a "bulb."Cluster lashes are generally best applied by a professional. A natural or dramatic look can be created with cluster lashes and which can last about a week.

Individual eyelash extensions, sometimes called "semi-permanent lashes" are single eyelash hairs that are applied to your individual eyelashes with an adhesive. Individual lashes should only be applied by a professional. The service can take anywhere from 1 1/2 to 3 hours depending on the clients natural lashes and the look that is trying to be achieved. Individual lashes can last anywhere from 4-6 weeks depending on how well they are cared for. A fill-in or touch up service can be performed anywhere from 2-4 weeks to maintain the desired look.

Call us at 919.435.7373 or email us at info@bodyblissnc.com for more information about lashes and pricing.

-Blog post written by Sarah Boulton

Introducing Olaplex

Olaplex is a bond multiplier which is unlike any other product on the market. This actually links broken disulfide bonds in the hair allowing you to restore the strength, structure and integrity of the hair before, during and after services. It is not a conditioner in anyway whatsoever as it does not coat the hair in silicone. It is also not a protein as that can be overused and eventually cause brittleness and breakage. This is an entirely new chemistry giving us brand new options in regards to what is possible for us as hairstylists. Olaplex is just one revolutionary ingredient developed by two PHD's in chemistry and materials.  It's completely safe and free of any toxic ingredients.  Nothing has ever been created like Olaplex. (information provided from olaplex.com and Olaplex representative.)

Olaplex is a two step process. Step one, or Olaplex No.1, can be added into lightener, hair color, or a glaze. No.1 can also be used as a treatment on its own. Either way it is performed, the hair is then treated with Olaplex No.2. Since it can be added to color or lightener, it can be used to enhance many services that we offer in the salon, such as foils, balayage, a color retouch, all over color and MORE!

Ask you Body Bliss stylist about Olaplex at your next appointment! 

-Blog post written by Sarah Boulton

It's more than just a Massage!

 We all know that amazing feeling we get after receiving a massage! We often times leave in a happier mood, stress free, and pain free. Although, believe it or not, the benefits of massage go deeper than that! Today, it is easy to forget about our mental and physical health, which is why I am here to help remind you to take care of yourself!

 Let's first start with the mind. Now we know a massage can relieve stress, but what follows that? Simple, with no stress comes acceptance. The acceptance of happiness, positive self esteem, and a healthy sleeping pattern! 

 Next would be the hidden positive effects on the body. Due to circulation, it helps move nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. This is vital for areas to heal and stay healthy! This action provides support the elimination of metabolic waste, recovery to illness, and reduces the chance of suffering from a heart attack or stroke. 

 Not only does a massage feel great, but it provides time for your body to energize and heal!

Preparing for your Hair Appointment

Its time for a change, a change in your hair! You gave us a call or booked online with us, here are some ways you can prepare for your hair appointment.

• Get some ideas of what you want. Look at Pinterest, look through magazines and have these images readily available for you and your stylist to look at. 
• Think about styles or hair colors you have had in the past, what did you like least or most about them? Knowing this enable your stylist to give you a look that you will love!
• Go with clean hair, it is a myth that you should come to the salon with "dirty" hair for a color appointment. 
• Wear your hair like you would most days. Clients come into the salon with their hair in a pony tail and that doesn't give the stylist an idea of how you like to style your hair when it is down. 

Post appointment tips:

• After receiving a color service, try not to wash your hair for 24-48 hours. Give your hair and the new color some time to rest. 
• Having trouble styling your new do? If you didn't already purchased new hair care products, stop back by the salon to pick up the products that the stylist used to help you achieve the new look.

-Blog Post by Sarah Boulton 

The Misunderstood Manicure

Do you find yourself saying "My nails are too short to get a manicure."? It is often misunderstood that you have to have long nails in order to treat yourself. Well, I am here to change that way of thinking. Believe it or not, manicures are one of the best things you can do for your nails. Not only will you leave feeling beautiful, but it will leave your hands looking younger. Our hands can give away how old a person really is, so why not take care of them sooner rather than later!

The nails need some pampering in order to grow and continue to look healthy. When receiving a Manicure the cuticles are moisturized and pushed back. Dry, unconditioned cuticles are the number 1 reason for constant nail breaking. The nails are also filed to the appropriate length to get rid of any separation of the nails or breakage.

So next time you say your nails need to be longer in order to get a manicure; get a manicure that way your nails will grow longer!