Spa Inc. Spring 2016 English

spring 2016

Canada’s spa connection

Cruelty-free Cosmetics

for Canada Going Organic

at the spa

www.spainc.ca Publications Mail NO. 40026342

Grotto Spa $6

smart business & old-world charm

contents

10

spa news

News from the spa industry

6

in the know

Creating a holistic, healthy spa experience for clients

20

spa light

Grotto Spa: A slice of paradise on the West Coast

Understanding organic skin care products

22

10

14

spa elements

fresh & new

Banning animal-tested cosmetics in Canada

Looking forward to Summer: New products, tools and equipment for your spa

14

24

The business of becoming an organic spa

16

spa star

Makeup artist and green beauty guru, Paige Padgett

26

24

26

Cover photo: Grotto Spa Parksville, BC

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between us

Walking

Lightly

Spring 2016

Publisher Susan A. Browne sbrowne@dvtail.com

Editorial Theresa Rogers Director trogers@dvtail.com

Assistant Hermione Wilson Editor hwilson@dvtail.com

Staff writer Kelly Townsend ktownsend@dvtail.com

Art Sharon MacIntosh Director smacintosh@dvtail.com

P

utting together this issue has made me realize that committing to operating organically as a spa is more than just ordering products with the Certified Organic label. It is an attitude one must adopt, a way of life that is guided by integrity and intelligence, and a commitment to being aware that the way your spa operates affects not only your spa clients, but the environment as well.

We are living in an interconnected world; that is a reality we cannot escape nowadays, Hermione Wilson when the effects of global warming and assistant Editor climate change are making themselves known. We know that the products we use, the cars we drive, even the clothes we wear all contribute to our carbon footprint. What we do affects the world we live in, which in turn affects our health and well-being.

It reminds me of something British economist and sustainability advocate Barbara Ward said in her 1972 book Only One Earth: “We have forgotten how to be good guests, how to walk lightly on the earth as its other creatures do.”

The problems of our planet may seem overwhelmingly large, too large for us to do anything about. But there are things we can do, as spa owners and therapists, and as ordinary citizens too, as this issue can attest to. Take Senator Carolyn Stewart Olsen for instance, who wrote an article for us on the #BeCrueltyFree movement here in Canada. She has being working long and hard to get the government to adopt legislation that would see Canada ban cosmetics that have been tested on animals (p.14). Also in this issue, you will be introduced to Paige Padgett, a make-up artist with a passion for sustainability who has written a guide to green beauty (p. 26).

Our Spring 2016 issue is full of practical advice about how you can make a difference in your spa business and in the lives of your clients by deciding to operate organically. Let’s all commit to walking more lightly.

ISSN 1710 -1727 – Volume 13, Number 1

Contributors Morag Currin Kirsten Foss Carolyn Stewart Olson Advertising Beth Kukkonen Manager bkukkonen@dvtail.com

Advertising Jennifer DiIorio jdiiorio@dvtail.com 905-707-3509 Lynne LeBlanc lleblanc@dvtail.com 905-707-3521

Marketing Stephanie Wilson Manager swilson@dvtail.com

VP of Roberta Dick Production robertad@dvtail.com

Production Crystal Himes Manager chimes@dvtail.com

Published four times a year by: Dovetail Communications Inc. President: Susan A. Browne Tel: 905-886-6640 Fax: 905-886-6615 Email: general@dvtail.com SUBSCRIPTIONS AND RETURNS 30 East Beaver Creek Rd, Suite 202 Richmond Hill, Ontario L4B 1J2 PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40026342 Legal Deposit – National Library of Canada. All rights reserved.

No portion of this publication may be reproduced, in all or in part, without the written permission of the publisher. Dovetail Communications Inc. cannot be held responsible for any losses or other damages incurred by readers in reliance on information appearing in Spa Inc. Spa Inc. and Dovetail Communications Inc. do not assume any responsibility for the contents of any advertisement and any and all representations or warranties made in such advertising.

Spa Inc. will review unsolicited submissions (hard copy or digital texts, photos or illustrations) for editorial consideration but does not guarantee their publication. The submitted material may be used without consent or payment.

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spa news

Skin care brand wins big

Urban Nordic spa in the works for Ottawa Sometime in the future, downtown Ottawa will be graced with a Nordik Spa. The Nordik Group is partnering with other businesses in the LeBreton Re-Imagined project, which seeks to develop the LeBreton Flats, a 58-acre parcel of vacant land located just west of Parliament Hill. The development project will include a number of public venues and activities that will serve the public interest such as community green spaces, cultural and historical museums, an aquarium and a planetarium.

“As a Canadian leader in the spa industry, and being truthful to its tradition of innovation, the Nordik Group’s vision is to develop a new urban spa concept to be unique to Canada,” says Daniel Gingras, Co-owner and Vice-president, Corporate Development of le Nordik Spa. “It will be a new relaxing experience oriented toward health and well-being.”

Nordik Group is joined by such organizations as Ripley’s Entertainment Inc., which plans to establish a Ripley’s Blue Planet Pavilion on the site, SPIN Skatepark, Trans Canada Trail, and Family YMCA. A variety of housing, retail outlets, office space, and community services will also be created as part of the project.

Vancouver-based skin care brand Éminence Organic Skin Care has been awarded the 2015 American Spa Professional Choice Awards for Favorite Skin Care Line and Favorite Company for Product Education. This is the seventh year in a row the brand has received these awards, in addition to winning recognition for being the Favorite Body Care Line and Favorite All-Natural Line of American Spa magazine readers and spa industry professionals.

“We are incredibly grateful for the continuing support and recognition of the products we are passionate about,” says Boldijarre Koronczay, President of Éminence Organic Skincare, who himself received the International SPA Association’s 2015 Visionary Award. “Our dedication is to providing high-quality natural, organic and Biodynamic skin care that delivers results and continues to resonate with our loyal spa partners and consumers.” Éminence Organic Skin Care is dedicated to educating and training aestheticians on the benefits of organic skin care, new products, industry trends and innovative technology. The brand maintains a presence at North American tradeshows, holding demonstrations, interacting with attendees and providing training programs for spa treatment professionals.

A secret medi spa

It’s a Secret Med Spa staff

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Imagine a medi spa that provided discreet cosmetic treatments for its clients in a luxurious setting and lets them slip out the back door once it’s done. That’s exactly what It’s a Secret Med Spa had in mind when it opened in Dallas, TX, in February. The 1,750-sq. ft. facility offers the latest medical aesthetic services for face and body, experienced medi spa staff, and above all, discretion.

“We have a back entrance so clients can come in through the back, pay in their treatment room and leave through the back so no one knows they’ve been here,” says General Manager Lydia Speck. “You’ll look the best you’ve ever looked and everyone will ask how you’ve done it, but we’ll never tell your secret.”

It’s a Secret Med Spa celebrated its grand opening with a red carpet event. The medi spa will create customized treatment plans for clients who have not seen results with previous procedures, as well as for those who are interested in preventative measures.

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spa news Skincare brand hosts worldwide launch Global skincare brand Image Skincare is hosting product launch parties all over the world this year.

This spring, events will take place in cities across the globe that will invite estheticians, physicians and spa , salon and skincare professionals to take a closer look at Image Skincare’s new products.

“This year will be the biggest launch in company history,” says CEO and Founder Janna Ronert.

“We are launching 33 new SKUs and an entirely new category.”

The Image Skincare Worldwide Launch Party is coming to Toronto on April 5, with an Old Hollywood glamour theme and exclusive offers for attendees.

Possible cellulite-busting treatment in the works

Olivia Pope partners with OPI OPI Products Inc. has announced actress Kerry Washington will become its first-ever Creative Ambassador. The Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated actress will be responsible for co-curating nail lacquer shades and developing shade names with OPI co-founder and brand ambassador Suzi Weiss-Fishchmann, as well as sourcing inspiration for and consulting on various creative projects for the company.

“I am a huge fan of OPI and was ecstatic when Suzi approached me to partner with the brand,” says Washington. “I’m so inspired by Suzi and what she has built with the OPI brand. OPI’s broad spectrum of fashionable colours and iconic names have become an industry standard.”

“One of my favorite shows is ‘Scandal,’” says Weiss-Fischmann, noting that Washington, who plays the show’s main character, Olivia Pope, is a role model for women everywhere. “She is bold, fashionable and loves nail lacquer.”

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Pharmaceutical company Endo International has announced the cellulite treatment it is developing has entered a second round of clinical trials. Endo has been studying the use of a collagen, known as collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH), to treat edematous fibrosclerotic panniculopathy, commonly known as cellulite. If CCH proves successful in clinical trials and is approved by the FDA, it could become the first biological treatment for cellulite available in the U.S. “Cellulite affects millions of U.S. women, dimpling their skin, impacting their appearance and causing bother and self-consciousness for many,” says Dr. Susan Hall, Executive Vice President, Chief Scientific Officer and Global Head of R&D and Quality at Endo. “There are no FDAapproved pharmacological options for cellulite and many currently available treatment options have not demonstrated a scientific benefit.”

Endo expects to enroll 350 women aged 18 years and older in its U.S. clinical trial. Twelve injections will be administered to cellulite dimples during each treatment session, approximately 21 days apart, and later measured for improvement according to a five-point scale system.

spa light

A true West Coast

experience B y K e l ly T o w n s e n d

L

ocated in the small town of Parksville, BC, on the east side of Vancouver Island, Grotto Spa takes a distinctly West Coast approach to offering guests a small slice of paradise. While the spa belongs to the Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort, all of its facilities are located in a separate building, heightening the feeling of exclusivity and relaxation. For each guest, that sense of paradise is awoken before their appointment even begins.

“Every treatment starts with a dip in the mineral pool,” says Paulina Alexander, Spa Director. “We invite guests to arrive an hour before their treatment. It’s a warm water pool; it’s infused with minerals and trace elements to help detoxify the body and relax our guests before they start a treatment.”

The mineral pool is not only the spa’s signature feature, the spa was literally built around it. The rocky, textured walls, which are adorned with tropical leaves, mimic the aesthetic of a naturally formed ocean-side cavern and inspired the name Grotto Spa. The pool, filled with pristine blue water, features a two-story waterfall and a cool splash cascade that contrast with the mineral-infused warm waters.

As guests make their way to their treatment rooms, they are greeted by an authentically West Coast interior design. The furniture and artwork are provided by local vendors that highlight the natural beauty of Vancouver Island, featuring plenty of wood, tiles and natural boroughs. The Relaxation Lounge on the third floor is equipped with several fireplaces and plush seating, which Alexander describes as her favourite place to relax at the spa.

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spa light

The mineral pool is not only the spa’s signature feature, the spa was literally built around it. The rocky, textured walls, which are adorned with tropical leaves, mimic the aesthetic of a naturally formed ocean-side cavern and inspired the name Grotto Spa.

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spa light

A knack for organic While 50 per cent of the treatments Grotto Spa provides are massages, Alexander says the signature body treatments are what really allow the spa to stand out. The 90-minute treatments include a body wrap, a body glow to gently exfoliate and refine skin texture, and finishes with a relaxing massage. Each treatment uses organic ingredients from Eminence Organic Skin Care and Beauty Through Balance.

“It’s important for us to use product lines that are of the highest quality and that they are provided by suppliers who are very focused on their own practices of sustainability, ethical environment and social practices,” says Alexander.

Beauty Through Balance is a smaller product line that uses local ingredients, including hand-harvested West Coast seaweed and organic Canadian glacial clay.

Eminence Organic Skin Care offers a much larger selection of more than 150 products.

“It allows us to be able to provide a completely custom and personalized treatment for our guests that is also results-oriented,” says Alexander.

To end their visit on a satisfying note, guests are invited to visit the Treetop Tapas & Grill restaurant, which is available exclusively for spa guests. The restaurant maintains a mandatory robe and sandal attire rule, and offers the choice of one or two selections of tapas, or the popular “Endless Tapas” option, where guests can sample a wide variety of chef selections.

Recipes for tapas have a distinct focus on fresh, local seafood. “It’s really a great mix between the spa-inspired antioxidant cuisine and a lot of decadence as well,” she says. “It’s an experience of dining unlike any other in Canada that I’ve ever come across.”

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spa light

Grotto Spa Facts Size: 20,000 square-feet Number of treatment rooms: 21 Number of staff: 80 Retail: Eminence Organic Skin Care, Beauty Through Balance, Gehwol, OPI

Feedback is the key to success The staff members at Grotto Spa are no strangers to hard work, which has resulted in several accolades over the last few years. Most recently, Grotto Spa was the highest-ranked spa in Canada in Spas of America’s Top 100 Spas of 2015.

In 2014, Grotto Spa became the first spa to earn the Spa Industry Association of Canada’s Education Award, which traditionally is given to school programs or individuals involved in spa training. “It came to us just based off of our training initiatives, how much we’re committed to making sure that our team always has opportunities to grow, develop and be the “ It’s important for us to use product very best,” says Alexander. lines that are of the highest quality Part of the intensive training initiatives include designated training hours for staff and that they are provided by members each month, mandatory quarterly suppliers who are very focused on training sessions on all of the spa’s skin care their own practices of sustainability, lines, as well as monthly meetings. “[We] make sure that the team is always communicated ethical environment and social with, is part of the decisions that we make, and practices,” says Alexander. that their feedback and ideas for improving treatments are always taken into consideration.”

That drive for improvement has seen Grotto Spa through its 13 years of operation. Since its inception in the spring of 2003, the spa has overseen a third floor expansion due to its popularity, which led to the addition of the Relaxation Lounge and restaurant. Their efforts in routinely following up on guest feedback, from social media sites to their own guest surveys, have led to an average guest satisfaction rating of 94 to 97 per cent.

“The whole philosophy of our spa is that there’s no guest feedback that isn’t welcome,” says Alexander. “No matter how good you perceive you’re doing, there’s always an opportunity to grow, so that feedback is what guides our decisions every day.”

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spa elements

It’s Canada’s turn to

#BeCrueltyFree B y S e nat o r C a r o ly n S t e wa r t O l s e n

From left to right: Rebecca Aldworth (Executive Director of Humane Society International Canada) and Laureen Harper (spouse of former Prime Minister Harper) support Senator Olsen’s Be Cruelty Free Campaign

L

ike many Canadians, I believe it is time to end the practice of animal testing for cosmetic purposes. Animal testing is a cruel and inhumane practice which is firmly rooted in the industrial environment of the mid-20th century. Many equally effective methods for testing cosmetics products and their ingredients have long since been adopted as innovative substitutes for animal testing. The time has come for the government to finally step forward and take action to prohibit this backward practice and bring Canada, fully, into the 21st century.

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The legislation I have proposed has not been introduced in isolation. Our closest allies and trading partners have adopted, or are in the process of adopting similar bills or regulations. The European Union, India, Israel, Norway, New Zealand, Turkey, South Korea, and several states in Brazil, have all passed laws, fully or partially, banning animal testing and in many cases going a step further to ban the sale of products which use animal tested ingredients. Just south of the border, the United States Congress is currently considering the Humane Cosmetics Act, which was

spa elements introduced with bipartisan support in June, 2015. Other nations, including Australia, Argentina, Taiwan, and Russia have also had similar legislative proposals introduced in the past several years.

It was important for me to consult broadly to ensure that all views were heard as I considered moving forward with this kind of legislation. I held meetings and exchanged correspondence with Humane Society International/Canada, Animal Alliance of Canada and representatives from the Canadian cosmetics industry. In my consultations I learned that a prohibition on animal testing will have little impact on the day-to-day operations of the Canadian beauty industry, since very little cosmetic animal testing actually occurs within Canada. Our cosmetics industry should indeed be commended for recognizing animal testing is a backward practice and moving actively toward eliminating it.

On the economics side, our cosmetics market is heavily weighted toward importing products rather than producing them. These cosmetics come mainly from the United States, but also, in increasing numbers, from the European Union. The European Union has enacted a sales ban on animal tested products which is already in force in 28 countries. If the United Sates were to adopt the Humane Cosmetics Act, our industry could find itself significantly behind our partners in addressing this issue. Passing the Cruelty-Free Cosmetics Act would remove a currently existing trade barrier with the European Union and proactively prevent the possibility of confronting restricted access to the market in the United States.

The Canadian public agrees that the time for animal testing has come to an end. More than 100,000 Canadians have signed the #BeCrueltyFree petition as of December, 2015. Polling done on

behalf of the Animal Alliance and Humane Society International indicated that 88% of Canadians surveyed agree that causing suffering to animals is not worth any marginal benefit that may arise when there are already safe ingredients and testing methods widely available. Polling also indicated that 81% of Canadians support a national sales ban on cosmetics and ingredients that have been tested on animals.

Many of North America’s best known brands have realized that cruelty-free is the direction in which the industry is headed and have been very successful at marketing their products without the need to conduct animal testing. Companies like LUSH, H&M, Paul Mitchell, and Urban Decay have taken strong stances against animal testing in the past and have been active in supporting efforts to curb the practice in the broader North American industry.

A cruelty-free marketplace in Canada is in the best interest of Canadian industry and certainly the best interest for animal welfare. The experience of the European Union has demonstrated that the world’s largest market for beauty products can transition successfully into a cruelty-free system.

It is Canada’s turn to be a leader on the world stage and make 2016 the year to #BeCrueltyFree by ending cosmetic animal testing and trade once and for all.

New Brunswick Senator, Carolyn Stewart Olsen, was appointed to the Senate of Canada in August, 2009. Prior to her appointment, she served as Director of Strategic Communications in the office of Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Before working in government, Senator Stewart Olsen was a Registered Nurse, specializing in emergency and trauma care, in various hospitals in Canada and the United States.

Senator Carolyn Stewart Olsen (right), and Troy Seidle, Director of Research and Toxicology for Humane Society International (far right), with supporters. www. s p a inc .c a

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spa elements

Going Organic as a Spa Business Strategy B y K i r st e n F o ss

A

re you debating a shift in your spa business to become organic? Perhaps you’re hoping to stand out in a busy, and rather noisy, beauty industry or maybe this choice is in alignment with your company vision (or promise) of supporting guests in their pursuit of clean living.

Both are valid and honourable reasons for committing to the organic spa concept and this shift of business focus has the potential to be very lucrative!

To succeed in offering organic treatments and products that will build a stronger clientele, your spa must have a detailed business strategy to convey your new direction. Otherwise, guests who are looking for organic (and they are looking!) may book with you once, but if you don’t have a well thought out plan that meets their needs, the consumer will continue their search for another spa that is communicating and executing this organic focus in a more sophisticated manner.

Because launching an organic spa is an expensive and time-consuming change, I have four essential steps you need to consider in order to be on track for strong, sustainable spa sales:

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1.

e exceptionally clear B about your ideal client

This one of the first exercises I do with my private clients. Your business strategy begins with knowing whom you are trying to attract. A vague ideal client profile will give unpredictable sales results.

If you choose to focus on an organic concept in your spa, you need to be speaking to prospective clients who value clean living, and see organic skin care and makeup as an essential part of their personal grooming.

When you know the psychographics, the consumer behaviour, of this ideal client, you have a much better idea about where to find them “hanging out” on social media and in your community and you will spend less time and money marketing to the people who are already open to your offer.

2.

Have a clear organic focus in your marketing

Now that you have a better idea about which group of consumers to shift your advertising to, the next step in your spa business strategy is to keep your marketing message crystal clear. Be consistent with your organic message on social media platforms, newsletters, and in-spa marketing by using images and words that convey nature, freshness and wholesomeness. Enlist the help of your organic product line’s marketing department. They often have copy you can use in your own content.

spa elements

3.

he organic spa experience T must be consistent

Pretend you are a guest connecting with your spa for the first time.

Does your spa experience convey your organic message from the moment they visit your website, as they walk in the door, throughout the treatment and up until to the time they leave the spa?

Truly, it is the details in your business that add up to an exceptional guest experience; one that says, “We’re committed to our beliefs.” Gain perspective by looking at all five senses; sight, sound, taste, smell, and hearing. If one of those senses is out of alignment with your organic concept, (for example, a strong odour of nail polish) you could be inadvertently derailing your spa’s focus, and its success.

What about the other service protocols? Are they all in alignment with your concept? Perhaps you offer a treatment that uses a lessthan-organic ingredient deck. It is critical you stay focused, and it may be time to re-evaluate which treatments should stay, go or be adjusted to fit with your purpose.

4.

ire a team with H the same values

What we don’t understand or value, we dismiss. This goes for your team as well! Hiring staff that already hold organic living as an important lifestyle choice will immediately improve your company culture and as a result, your business outcomes. When everyone working is toward a common business goal, which is in alignment with his or her personal values, it is a win-win for personal career satisfaction and generating revenues.

Going organic is not as simple as, “Let’s bring in an organic skin care line to attract more business.” It is the culmination of focused and strategic actions that will allow your organic spa concept be a client attractor and generate strong, sustainable sales.

Kirsten Foss is an esthetician, spa owner and business coach who works with salons and spas. She is also the Director of Marketing & Communication for the Estheticians & Spa Professionals Association BC and lives in Victoria, BC.

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in the know

A holistic spa Practices and Products

By Morag Currin Editor’s Note: Expert columnist Morag Currin continues her series on how spas can contribute to the well-being of people with cancer, diabetes and other illnesses by providing safe, positive experiences.

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H

olistic means “whole” or “complete,” and a growing number of spas are becoming holistic in approach, meaning they choose to focus on mind, body, and spirit experiences and an environment that will appeal to clients who are consciously choosing to live a quality life.

A holistic spa looking for client retention needs to be very clear in its concept and how this will benefit clients, including those with health challenges who are somewhat “forced” to change their lifestyle as a result of their challenges. It is not always an easy transition for the client, so if you can make it fun and easy for them, they can adapt and heal faster. For the client experiencing no health challenges, educating them and including them in this concept will open their minds to a positive outcome as well.

in the know

The client who has undergone cancer treatment, or those who live with other chronic diseases like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), may choose services with toxin-free products. This client would expect the spa environment to live up to its holistic approach. Thought should be given to construction materials which can release toxins into the air. Paints and other finishes with low or zero levels of volatile organic compounds (VOC) should A holistic spa looking for client be used. The flooring Health challenges such as multiple retention needs to be very clear should be hardwood, which chemical sensitivity (MCS), also known in its concept and how this will has minimal formaldehyde as “environmental illness”, refers to a emissions, or bamboo, variety of non-specific symptoms benefit clients, including those which is a better chemicalreported by some people after possible with health challenges who are free option, provided no exposure to chemical, biologic or physical somewhat “forced” to change glues are used to adhere it agents. Symptoms can include headache, to the floor. fatigue, dizziness, nausea, congestion, their lifestyle as a result of In order to remain itching, sneezing, sore throat, chest pain, their challenges. consistent with the concept changes in heart rhythm, breathing of a holistic spa, a recycling problems, muscle pain or stiffness, skin program and sustainable rash, diarrhea, and more. Clients who practices like using filtered water taps instead of buying bottled suffer with MCS are highly likely to look for a spa or wellness drinking water could be adopted. These are cheaper alternatives centre that will have the least possible exposure to any agents that and both practices limit waste in the spa. could cause these side effects.

Therapies like shiatsu, Ayurvedic massage, acupuncture and Some of these clients may link their symptoms to contact with reflexology add to the holistic array of services. Add-ons such as a low levels of chemicals at work, perhaps while working in an diffuser with changing LED lights can be beneficial in treatment office with poor ventilation. Areas in the spa that offer nail rooms since colour therapy can play a major role in setting a services using strong-smelling chemicals and no ventilation particular mood or state of mind. An essential oil or a blend of oils would not be a good place for this client to experience a service. that the client selects at the time of treatment can also be put into Others with environmental sensitivities have conditions like the water and diffused throughout the room during the service. asthma that can be triggered by plant pollen, dust, or mold, so If you are planning to venture into the holistic spa arena, take limiting their presence in the spa is a must. time to consider whether this is a concept you can commit to Many side effects to health challenges can be helped by wholeheartedly. To live it, you have to believe in it. stimulating acupoints when you incorporate these into regular spa services for specific conditions, such as exhaustion. Chi or Qi, according to Chinese traditional philosophy, is the main energy flow that runs through our body. Whenever the flow of Qi is altered or gets blocked up the body will experience pains or aches. The Qi Morag Currin is the company owner and educational professional flow is mainly within 12 meridians and these acupuncture points, of Oncology Training International (OTI) whose innovative or “acupoints”, are located on the lines of the Meridian. Acupuncture concepts were designed to provide more advanced comforting points are the points at which the Qi rises to the surface of the body. modalities of esthetic treatments and care for patients These points are specific points mapped out on the body which if undergoing cancer treatments. stimulated have an influence on the internal organs they are correlated with. Key acupoints can be shown to the client, so that every time they experience exhaustion, they will remember what you have taught them, and it will have a positive outcome for them.

Start with one acupoint, and if they continue to experience other ailments, find another acupoint that can benefit them. www. s pa inc .c a

21

in the know

Is

Organic

Skin Care Better?

B y S h e r i na J a m a l

T

he majority of us want to make healthier choices in the foods we eat and what we put on our skin. Buying a skin care line labelled organic or natural can be a good choice, however before you buy, it’s important to have more awareness about what organic and natural really mean when it comes to the skin care industry.

Many years of experience in the areas of product development, manufacturing and sourcing ingredients from around the world have taught me that there are many misconceptions out there about organic skin care products. First, it’s important to keep in mind that to call a product organic, not all ingredients have to be certified organic. Second, even if a product claims to be organic, the certification could just be referring to a few select ingredients in the formula sometimes used in a lower percentage. It is also important to note that even if a product is organic it can still have commonly used synthetics such as petrochemicals, sulfates, propylene glycol, mineral oil, fragrances, and colours. There are ways to actually “hide” the use of certain synthetics such as preservatives. Unfortunately, in the cosmetic and skin care industry, the labelling laws are still fairly slack when it comes to the authenticity of the claims made such as natural, organic, ecofriendly, and preservative-free , so it’s easy to get confused.

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Rather than being focused on whether a product or its ingredients are organic, I feel it is more important to be sure that the product is safe. In natural and organic products, the more food-grade ingredients you use in the formula the more chances that there can be accelerated levels of bacteria, mold and yeast. It is important that the product is safe and stable. The other thing to look for is whether the organic product is free of commonly used synthetics and contains pure ingredients that are not overprocessed. The truth is, if a raw ingredient (plant, herb or fruit) is taken and processed to extract its active components for use in a cosmetic formula, the pesticides in most cases are eliminated during the processing stage. Some raw ingredients grown and used for cosmetics and skin care have no pesticides to begin with.

in the know

Buying a skin care line labelled organic or natural can be a good choice, however before you buy, it’s important to have more awareness about what organic and natural really mean when it comes to the skin care industry.

Pure Avocado Moisturizer

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Yuzu Rose Collection

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My product line, for example, uses raw seaweed from northern British Columbia which is hand-harvested from ocean beds and grown by our harvesting partners. It is taken and cold-processed in its raw form with purified water, and then a small percentage of food-grade preservative is added. There are no pesticides or other synthetics involved before or after processing. The end result is more than 98 per cent raw cold-processed seaweed (the true definition of the word organic is an ingredient more than 95 per cent in its raw pure form).

Pure essential oils are another example. These are often processed using steam distillation which would eliminate anything other than the pure essence of the plant during the steam distillation process.

When it comes to skin care, the word organic has less to do with specific benefits to the skin and more to do with just letting you know what form the ingredient classified in the formula is in.

In my opinion, it can also have a lot to do with marketing and growing revenues.

Facial Mask

Sea Mist Sea Salt Spray with Lavender

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a.c.e. serum

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Full Brow Serum

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1. SHIRA ESTHETICS | www.shirausa.com 2. SPARITUAL | www.sparitual.com 3. PANGEA ORGANICS | www.pangeaorganics.com 4. JOHN MASTERS ORGANIC | www.johnmasters.ca 5. ORGANICSceuticals | www.organicspa.com.au 6. PROVINCE APOTHECARY | www.provinceapothecary.com

Sherina Jamal is the founder and CEO of Ancient Secrets Inc., and the developer of the Beauty Through Balance Spa Line, which is made in Canada. She has been an educator in the areas of natural skin care and a developer of holistic skin care products and treatments for more than 12 years. www.beautythroughbalance.ca

www. s pa inc .c a

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fresh & new BEAUTY THROUGH BALANCE

Canadian Forest Elements

Ancient Secrets Inc. recently launched the newest addition to its Beauty Through Balance spa line. The Canadian Forest Elements series is made in British Columbia and contains essential oils unique to Canada, such as Canadian Spruce Hemlock, Canadian Fir Balsam, Fir Needle and Black Pine and Cypress oils. The set of shampoos, conditioners, body wash and lotion are free of sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, fillers, dyes, artificial fragrances, artificial colours and other commonly used cosmetic chemicals. www.beautythroughbalance.ca

MANCINE COSMETICS

Ultra Flexxx Brazilian Strawberry Strip & Hot Wax

LASH BELONG

LASH beLONG Professional Eyelash Extension Kit LASH beLONG’s Professional Eyelash Extension Kit includes Volume and Individual Extensions, long-lasting natural-looking lashes that can be applied using LASH beLONG Semi-Permanent Adhesive, as well as the necessary tools to apply and maintain them. Once applied, the lash extensions should last for the entire cycle of natural hair growth (2-4 weeks depending on the individual). Training is available in lash application, as well as techniques in marketing and advanced design. www.lashbelong.com 24 Sp a Inc. | Spri n g 2 016

CND

Flirtation Collection, Vinylux Weekly Polish System The eight creamy pastel shades of CND’s newest collection were inspired by modern lace and embroidery. Lavender Lace, Desert Poppy, Honey Darlin’, Be Demure, Aquaintance, Skin Tease, Date Night and Pink Pursuit all put a playful spin on a weekly mani-pedi. The Vinylux polishes are fastdrying, chip-resistant and deliver durable, seven-day colour. The collection is free of toluene, camphor, formaldehyde and phthalates (DBP). www.cnd.com

One of a series of Mancine hard waxes known for their low melting point and uniquely flexible plastic texture, the Ultra Flexxx Brazilian Strawberry wax is specially formulated for sensitive areas of the body. The wax is easy to apply and removes short hairs with half the thickness of other hard waxes so you get more applications per kilogram. The treatment has hypoallergenic properties and leaves skin smooth and clean. www.mancinecosmetics.com

fresh & new

SUNESCAPE

Month in Maui

CONTINUUM PEDICURE SPAS

Sunescape’s Month in Maui Instant Self-Tanning Mousse provides the deep bronze colour of a true sun worshipper, without the harmful UV rays. The Month in Maui tan takes hold in a rapid two hours and fades naturally without any patchiness. This tanning mousse is made with natural ingredients, is free of parabens and petrochemicals, and has not been tested on animals. www.sunescape.com.au

Vantage VE

Continuum’s new Vantage VE (Value Edition) pedicure chair is equipped with a full shiatsu back massage, manicure trays and pivoting arms and footrests for easy access. The pedicure chair’s pipeless, easy-to-service jet system eliminates the need for internal pipes that recirculate water, ensuring a safe and sanitary pedicure. An auto-fill feature automatically stops filling the fibreglass basin once the proper water level has been reached, reducing the chances of overflow. www.mycontinuumpedicure.com

ELIZABETH ARDEN PRO

Hydrating Antioxidant Spray Elizabeth Arden PRO’s Hydrating Antioxidant Spray contains moisturizing humectants and antioxidants, such as resveratrol, white tea and ferulic acid. Ideal for use on the face, neck and décolletage, this lightweight formula boosts hydration and refreshes skin. The spray has been designed to be reapplied throughout the day as needed and can be applied over makeup. www.elizabetharden.ca

DR. HAUSCHKA

Revitalising Leg & Arm Tonic Dr. Hauschka’s Revitalising Leg and Arm Tonic soothes and minimises water-retention in tired arms and legs.

The tonic contains rosemary essential oil (to warm and energize) and borage (to reduce the appearance of varicose veins and cellulite). The product can be combined with Dr. Hauschka’s body oil to moisturize dry skin. The product is free of parabens, mineral oils and synthetic fragrances, dyes and preservatives. www.dr.hauschka.com

POLLOGEN

OxyGeneo 3-in-1 Super Facial The OxyGeneo 3-in-1 Super Facial simultaneously provides exfoliation, infusion and oxygenation using technology that takes advantage of the natural processes of the body. The OxyGeneo exfoliates the skin using a method similar to microdermabrasion, and then cleanses the skin while infusing nutrient-rich active NeoRevive or NeoBright ingredients. In the final oxygenation stage of the treatment, the OxyGeneo produces an abundance of CO2 on the skin, causing the hemoglobin in the blood to release oxygen into the skin. The 3-in-1 treatment involves no downtime and functions silently, in keeping with a quiet spa ambience. www.geneo.ca www. s p a inc .c a

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spa star

Paige Padgett

M

ake-up artist and green beauty expert Paige Padgett has written a book that shows readers how to adopt a natural, toxic-free beauty routine.

In The Green Beauty Rules: The Essential Guide to ToxicFree Beauty, Green Glamour and Glowing Skin, Padgett debunks green beauty myths, explains the difference between natural, organic and chemically safe, and instructs the reader on how to effectively interpret product labels.

Why did you decide to write this book?

It’s challenging for a lot of people [to green their beauty routine] largely because there is so much information, they don’t know how to assimilate it and make it work for them.

I made it sort of magazine-y and easy-read, very step-bystep so they can not only have all the information there, but it’s also easily ingested and easily incorporated into your routine.

What does it mean to green your beauty routine?

Greening your beauty routine, to me, means lessening your body burden or considering the toxic chemicals in your cosmetics to lessen your body burden. It doesn’t mean all natural necessarily... and it certainly doesn’t mean all organic, but it means chemically safe, ideally natural, ideally sustainable, and even more ideally, organic. There are some chemicals that are relatively harmless to the body and some, especially the petrochemicals, that are more toxic. Petrochemicals have been linked to neurotoxicity, endocrine disruption, birth defects, just a myriad of different types of illnesses and disease.

What are some of the chemicals to look out for in our beauty products?

Well, I talk about the Three Ps a lot... Parabens, Perfume, which is also fragrance, and Petrochemicals, which is a really broad category of chemicals. Parabens are actually not the most toxic chemical out there, however, they’re in about 99 per cent of conventional products, so you’re getting a much higher percentage in than you would want in your body. Fragrance is used to mask a lot of toxic chemicals... They don’t have to list the ingredients in fragrance, so you can put anything you want in there and not have to list it, which is why the Environmental Working Group (a non-profit environmental research organization based in Washington, D.C.) gives it such a high toxicity ranking, because it’s just an unknown.

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Photo credit: Don Flood

What can spas do to make sure that their suppliers are selling toxic-free products?

They can learn about the product line and the ingredients, and learn what ingredients to avoid and watch out for, and educate themselves on the different labels and certifications.

Just like you would green your own beauty routine, it’s the same idea, even for commercial use. There are a lot of spa lines that are green and very popular, and not because they’re green but because they’re so great.

When you go to the spa, as a client, how to you ensure that the products that are used on you are toxin-free?

If I’m worried about it, I bring my own [products]. If you are concerned, you treat it like going to the nail salon. You bring your own colour to a salon if you want chemically safe manicures and pedicures.

Now you probably can’t do that with a wet room treatment or something like a wrap. You have to make a decision that you know what you’re getting.

Therapeutic Face & Body Care created with authentic ingredients from the source Featuring hand harvested raw Pacific Seaweed & Canadian Glacial Clay from the pristine Canadian Coastline

Take the spa experience to a heightened level of healing & wellbeing through the many benefits of our holistic ingredients which are sourced direct from the ocean & rainforests.

All harvesting & production focuses on ethical & sustainable practices.

Free of Sulfates, Parabens, Synthetic Colors, Fragrances, Petrochemicals, and not tested on animals.

www.beautythroughbalance.ca Pure authentic spa treatments & home care Made in BC Canada. Carried exclusively in fine spas & resorts

Celebrating a decade of joining together and shaping the future.

10th Annual Global Wellness Summit Tyrol, Austria, October 17-19, 2016 GLOBALWELLNESSSUMMIT.COM