Eau….MG! How Water can keep you Looking Beautiful…

It’s no secret that water is essential to life.  Your body composition is estimated to be between 60 to 70 percent water and, in order to function correctly, your body must remain hydrated at all times.  Water plays a crucial role in the process of digestion and the absorption of food; it helps sustain muscle tone; it provides oxygen and nutrients to your cells; it eliminates wastes from your body; and it serves as a natural cooling system when you’re hot.  For all these reasons, health officials have long-stressed the importance of drinking a minimum of eight to ten glasses of water each day to maintain good health.

But what about the beauty benefits of keeping yourself properly hydrated?  Because water contains no calories, it’s an ideal appetite suppressant; in fact, water actually helps the body to metabolize stored fat making it the perfect ally for those trying to lose weight.  Drinking enough water is also the most effective treatment for fluid retention (when your body is properly hydrated it will flush out the excess water, however if your body is lacking in fluids it will retain water as a means of survival).

As you continue to replenish the supply of water in your body, your body will constantly work to release the excess water and with it whatever toxins, waste and pollutants that your body may be holding.  For those who suffer from a oily skin, skin “spots” or “stains”, drinking the right amount of water each day will brighten your complexion and leave your skin feeling lusciously smooth and moist.  In addition to an increase in your energy levels and an improvement in your mental and physical performance, keeping hydrated will also reduce the appearance of dark under-eye circles.  So drink up and begin to enjoy the bountiful, and beautiful, benefits of water.

7 Easy Tricks to make your Pearly Whites Shine Brighter…

#1 – Don’t just Paint the Town Red…Spice up those Lips too!

A quick coat of lipstick can make all the difference when your smile is less than camera-worthy.  Not only will you feel sexier, but your smile will look radiant with the right red lipstick. The key is to choose the right shade.  Make sure to choose a dark or blue-based lipstick since it will give your teeth the illusion of looking brighter; stay away from pink and coral shades since they will make your teeth look yellow.

#2 – Look for the Silver Lining and Wear a Silver Necklace

Much like warmer shades of lipstick, gold jewellery can bring out any discolouration in your teeth.  So ditch the gold jewellery and opt for either white or silver baubles to make your teeth shine brighter.

# 3 – Grandma knows best…Reach for the Baking Soda

Although brushing with baking soda may not taste as good as your wintergreen tube of Crest, brushing with baking soda is one of the oldest tricks in the book for a shiny set of teeth.  I find it’s easiest to wet your toothbrush and then dip it into the baking soda.  Be careful not to do this too often however as it can erode your tooth enamel.

# 4 – A Sun-kissed Shimmer will make your Teeth Glimmer

We all know that wearing white enhances a summer a tan, but did you know that the opposite rule applies for teeth? That’s right – tanned skin makes your teeth appear whiter than they are.  With summer almost at its end, the key to keeping that sun-kissed glow year-round is using a sunless tanner.  Make sure to start with an even complexion (cleanse, exfoliate and moisturize your face) and then apply a thin layer of the tanner. When it comes time to do your makeup, opt for a light foundation, set with a light dusting of loose powder and finish with a golden bronzer.

# 5 – Keep it Fresh with Fruits

Next time you eat a banana, think twice before throwing away the peel.  Studies show that the minerals in a banana’s peel are easily absorbed by your teeth and can help to revitalize a dull smile.  Apply the peel in a circular motion before brushing daily for the best results.

We’re all familiar with the age-old adage: “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”.  Well that same apple can also keep the dentist at bay.  By snacking on an apple (or any other fruit for that matter) your mouth produces extra saliva which aids in removing stains from your teeth.  

# 6 – Think and Drink White

This one’s no secret – Dark foods and drinks (such as coffee, red wines and blackberries) can stain your teeth. Try trading dark drinks for water, herbal tea, ginger ale and white wine.  If you absolutely have to consume them, drink beverages through a straw and brush your teeth immediately after eating or drinking.

# 7 – Seek Professional Help

It’s recommended to see your dentist every six months for a regular cleaning.  This will not only keep your pearly whites from peril, but will also do wonders for stain and plaque removal, keeping your teeth glowing.  In between routine check-ups you can also check-out Spa ilo for a quick and painless 25 minute Teeth Whitening Session with results that last up to one full year. With prices starting at only 99$, you’ll have more than one reason to smile!

Fall Fashion calls for a Revival of Retro

This Fall everything Retro is new again…start thinking ‘60s mod mini-shifts, brocade bell-bottoms, ‘70s style flared-pants, haltered jumpsuits and bold-statement jewellery.   The look is ‘Retro Scenester’ and the Fall 2010 catwalks are being strutted by disco divas that are nothing short of Studio 54-worthy.  Pay attention to what’s hot this fall and be sure to check out some vintage stores (or your mom’s closet) for a chance to snag some retro treasures.

Looking to hair and make-up, this Fall’s beauty trends channel a similar retro flair (with a few twists to keep things from looking too kitschy).  With touches of bohemian hippie chic and a whole lot of disco dancing queen, the look is easy to capture with the right styling tips and tricks from the pros at Spa ilo.

The key to achieving this look is to start with some wave or curl already in your hair.  Opt for a curling wand and use the biggest sections of hair possible to keep the curls standard.  Be sure to use some hairspray or styling product.

Begin by parting your hair.  Note that the side-braid can only be worn with a side-part – on the opposite side of the head to the braid – while the fish plait can be worn with either a centre or a side-part.   Don’t thread your fringe (whether it’s cut as a blunt-fringe or not) into the braid; instead it’s best to style your fringe loosely.  For an edgier night-time version of this look, you can pair your side-braid with a slicked-side hairstyle.  Be sure to keep the braid loose and somewhat ‘messy’.  Secure your braid with a non-slip pony-tail holder and you’re ready to go!

Feeling a bit more adventurous?  Perhaps you’re ready to make a statement with one of Fall’s rich and vibrant shades? Maybe you’re thinking of exploring a new cut or a daring evening up-do? The trained professionals at Spa ilo are here to help.  Book a consultation today with one of our stylists and get ready to explore a fresh Fall you.

Spa Scope : Leo 07/23 – 08/22

| SPA-scope | LEO (07/23 – 08/22) |

This month your profession will likely take centre-stage and you will pursue success like a lion hunting its prey.  Fortunately, with your energy, drive and focus you are also destined to succeed in all of that you endeavour this month.  Be prepared to exert yourself and expect plenty of clandestine activities.  With everything that is transpiring this month you may find yourself being pulled in many different directions.   Be careful – unless you learn to relax and to manage your stress levels well, this lifestyle could take a toll on you.  This month heralds a phase of self-improvement and presents a great opportunity for growth, both personal and professional.  You appreciate the importance of hard work and recognize its integral role in making your accomplishments truly meaningful.  Your uncompromising nature and dedication will ensure a memorable month of happiness and success.  Just remember to relax…

| Recommended Spa Treatment |

Your fast-faced, high-stress month calls for some Massage Therapy!  Massage is one of the oldest techniques used to combat physical and psychological stress. Despite the vast amount of different massage types, most massages affect the body in a similar way; massages improve blood and lymphatic circulation and bring fresh oxygen and other nutrients to your overworked muscle tissues.

What’s more interesting however are the ‘secondary’ benefits of Massage Therapy.   Scientific studies support that massages reduce the levels of Cortisol (the stress hormone) while simultaneously elevating the levels of serotonin and dopamine (the feel-good hormones) in our bodies.  Additionally, massages are shown to: boost mental-alertness; stimulate our immune-systems; help to induce deeper sleep and to reduce symptoms of PMS (including pain, water retention and mood-swings).

So for busy Leo (and anyone else) striving to manage a hectic month, the benefits of a good massage are in abundance.  Fortunately, Spa ilo offers a wide-array of massage variations to suit your personal needs and preferences.  Whether you choose a traditional Swedish massage, a Hot Stone massage, or an Aromatherapy massage you’re sure to leave Spa ilo feeling re-energized physically and mentally, ready to let the world hear you roar!

Some Helpful Tips to keep your hair looking great while camping

Our tips on how to manage your hair while camping….

• Dry skin to combination/ don’t wash hair just spray roots with moveable hairspray and tease/ keeps volume and oils from distributing and flattening volume.
• Finger through a leave in conditioner or curl cream to increase moisture and curl or wave on ends only to keep volume.
• Marsha Marsha Marsha…. Yes brushing the natural oils through the hair and redistributing them throughout makes for natural well kept locks.
• Buns and braids in the heat of course keeps you cool and dry also braids can be undone in the morning to release amazing waves and volume.
• Pin curls before bed or during the day and release, creates natural looking waves and curl. Section into one inch sections of 95% dry hair and twist around finger pin with bobby pin close to scalp.

Les cheveux frénétiques de Lady Gaga dans son vidéoclip Alejandro

Lady Gaga a récemment débuté un vidéoclip qui a suscité beaucoup de controverse pour la chanson Alejandro tiré de son nouvel album Fame Monster. La New-Yorkaise a changé le monde musical avec ses danses entrainantes, son style assez spécial et des performances semblables à des expositions d’art. De son style à ses idées, Lady Gaga repousses encore plus les limites avec ce vidéo dirigé par Steven Klein. Le vidéo fait des références au fascisme et utilise beaucoup d’images religieuses. La chanson et la présence des fabuleux danseurs et de la pop star dans le clip sont une tentative pour Lady Gage de rendre hommage à certaines personnes dans sa vie.

Dans ce vidéo, Lady Gaga explique d’où lui sont venus ses idées pour son clip : « Il s’agit de la purée de mes amitiés avec mes amis homosexuels, et comment j’ai pu trouver ça avec un homme hétéro dans ma vie. C’est une célébration et une admiration de l’amour gai – ça confesse mon envie du courage et de la bravoure dont ils ont besoin pour être ensemble. Dans le vidéo,  je suis aspirante à l’amour de mes amis gais, mais ils ne veulent pas que je sois avec eux. »

Lady Gaga

Nous aimons le look de Lady Gaga avec sa coupe au bol modifiée ; elle est incroyable et stylée à la perfection ! Cette coupe ressemble à une version moderne de la coupe Dorothy Hamill qui était tant populaire dans les années 70. La réalisation de ce style demande beaucoup de coups de brossage ronds et nous recommandons de le faire avec une brosse de soie naturelle en plus d’utiliser la lotion Radiant Smoothing de Alterna. Un fer plat peut être nécessaire pour les types de cheveux plus lourds/frisés (n’importe quel fer qui va au-delà de 300 degrés est suffisant.) Assurez-vous d’utiliser un mouvement fluide et rond quand vous passez le fer plat afin d’ordonné votre cheveu.

Finissez avec le Working Spray de Alterna afin de maintenir le mouvement et la flexibilité.

Quel sera le prochain look de Lady Gaga ?!? Nous gardons l’œil ouvert !

Conseils de maquillage pour l’été!

La meilleure partie de l’été c’est d’être capable de porter moins de maquillage tout en gardant une fière allure. Vous n’avez plus besoin de fond de teint lourd ni d’ombre à paupières! Essayez un look plus naturel et laissez votre peau respirer avec peu ou pas du tout de maquillage! Le maquillage d’été sert surtout à protéger votre peau contre les rayons de soleil, à éviter la transpiration excessive, à éliminer l’aspect huileux de votre peau et à prévenir l’obstruction des pores de la peau.

• Laissez votre peau respirer en appliquant un maquillage simple. Il est important de bloquer l’humidité vu que la transpiration assèche la peau. Essayer de ne pas utiliser votre fond de teint habituel, optez donc pour une crème hydratante légère qui contient une protection solaire. Au lieu d’utiliser du fond de teint pour cacher vos taches de rousseur, utilisez une poudre translucide teintée pour couvrir votre peau et lui donner un peu de couleur.
• Si vous devez appliquer un fond de teint, mélangez-le avec une poudre légère afin de garder une apparence fraîche toute la journée.
• Optez pour le look naturel pour les lèvres. Essayez des roses légers avec un soupçon de brillance. Même pour les soirées, une simple application de brillant à lèvres est tout ce dont vous avez besoin !
• Une peau sensuelles et bronzée est à la mode cet été. Rappelez-vous toujours que la poudre bronzante doit être utilisée afin de vous donner de l’éclat, elle ne devrait pas être appliquée sur tout le visage comme les crèmes bronzantes.
• Les yeux doivent être maquillés très simplement. Utilisez une ombre douce et neutre sur les paupières. Essayez une ombre à paupière crémeuse légèrement brillante. Vous pouvez les utiliser pour les yeux, joues et lèvres !
• Courbez vos cils et appliquez une ombre brillante noire dessus pour qu’ils aient l’air plus longs et pour que vos yeux paraissent plus grands.
• Des blush à joues en bâton et des ombres à paupières en crème sont parfait pour l’été car ils sont facile à appliquer et durent plus longtemps.

Je sais que, au départ, cela peut paraître étrange et difficile de porter peu de maquillage, mais le look naturel est simple à réaliser et assez libérant une fois que vous réalisez que vous n’avez pas besoins de tous ses autres produits farfelus ! Éssayez de vous lever le matin et de tout simplement laver votre visage, appliquer une crème avec un SPF dedans, du mascara et un peu de brillant à lèvres et de profiter d’une belle journée ensoleillée !

Get Away from the Summer Heat and Cool Off – Get A Manicure or Pedicure

Montreal beauty spas provide not only a great place to relax but also a place where you can pamper yourself with all the goodies and specials like manicures and pedicures. Working a hard stressful life needs it own rewards and manicures or pedicures from the best Montreal spas is the perfect gift you can give yourself. A spa is a place to completely relax and rejuvenate yourself and a good manicure and pedicure can help you redefine your personality as well as get out of this Montreal heat wave!

Many people prefer manicures and pedicures for the simple reason that it makes them feel good, different and special. Hands are used day in and day out for all daily activities and it is only natural for the nails to feel the extra pressure. As a result, many tend to neglect their nails. However, hand nails can redefine your beauty when they are properly taken care of, and form an important part of your self that others observe and you can feel good about. The best Montreal spas also help you choose good polish for your nails so they can enhance your look even further.

Montreal pedicures are very good for your feet, not only in the sense of fashion but also in the sense of general health. Pedicure not only helps you have healthy and well maintained nails that are wonderfully attractive but also helps remove dead skin and calluses from your feet. This is an important step towards a comfort because calluses cause uneven pressure distribution on the feet that can lead to discomfort and pain. A pedicure helps the feet remain hygienic and relaxed. It also improves the blood flow to your feet, making them soft and nimble.

The best Montreal spas include a very soothing massage for the hands and legs in a comfortable and soothing environment. This stimulates the cells in these areas and helps them rejuvenate and you can feel your hands and feet to be really fresh after this. If you are looking to get the manicures and pedicures done, make sure that it is a qualified professional.

The World of Spa Treatment

There are many reasons why people take refuge in a spa.  Most people will visit the spa to relax their tired bodies through massage therapies,  avail of their regular nail treatments, get their hair styled, detoxify, have their skin invigorated and glowing, or simply experience a whole new world of pampering and self-indulgence.  Traditional spas focus on the body’s physical health while today’s contemporary spas are gearing towards therapies that center on the mind, with the belief that this part of the body is what controls its fitness.  Montreal’s modern spas offer a combination of both traditional and modern approaches towards overall wellness.  Spa clients can choose from a blend of massages, skin, nail or hair treatments in a single session at an affordable price.  Below are some of the products and services available in many spas operating in Montreal, Canada:

• Swedish massage – it is the most basic of massages and ideal for those new to the world of spa treatments.  The massage therapist makes use of oils to soften the skin to allow smooth glides and strokes.  This type of massage improves blood circulation and normalizes the heart rate. It is beneficial in de-stressing and helps boost self-esteem.
• Aromatherapy – is  a type of deep tissue  massage that makes use of a combination of essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, chamomile  that help improve the mood and alleviate body pains.
• Couples massage – this is a session joined in by a pair, usually a husband and wife or girlfriend or boyfriend teams inside the same room.  The company encourages a more relaxed setting with pleasant conversations among the couples if preferred.
• Reiki and naturopathy – are therapies that make use of the body’s innate ability to heal itself.  Reiki is the practice of transferring healing energies through the “laying” of hands over the body.  Naturopathy is said to alleviate emotional pains, anxiety and stress.
• Reflexology – is a spa treatment that focuses on the client’s feet where reflex points are stimulated.  It is a quick process where undressing and staying long at the facility is not required.  Its benefits are similar to those of the other massages – de-stresses the body and provides a calming effect as well.
• Body treatments – may range from deep sea salt exfoliation, to mud body wraps, chocolate body wraps or cranberry body wrap.  The exfoliation treatments scrubs away dead skin, bringing out new and revitalized younger-looking skin, while the body wraps rids the skin of toxins and impurities.
• Facial care – these are services that improve the face’s skin surface by reducing fine lines and wrinkles, warts and blemishes.  Some facial care services such as dermalift make use of micro-current technology to improve muscle tone, lessening skin sagging. Acne and blemishes may be removed through the use of a special magenta light directed towards the affected area.

Explore Montreal’s versatile spas and discover a whole new world of fitness and wellness treatments.

Make the Most out of your Montreal Spa Experience

Your spa experience should be something you will want to go through over and over when planned properly.  Some spa goers only have nightmare stories of what they went through on their first spa visit and vow never to return.  These disastrous spa visits are the products of poor planning and wrong expectations.  One should know what to expect in a spa treatment.  Properly organizing one’s spa visit will save time, resources and of course, yield best results.  Before setting foot on your spa trip, take note of the following hints for that successful and effective spa treat:

• Choose a spa that will offer services catering to your needs.  Take note of the staff’s skill levels and their ability to provide efficient customer service.  They must be knowledgeable and well-trained in their crafts, possess a successful track record in their fields, friendly and attentive to your concerns.  The best way to do your assignment is by reading up on online reviews of your possible choices, paying attention to the facilities’ feedback scores as well.  Listen to what previous clients have to say about their services.  Compare equipment and the menu of services. Consider location; Montreal’s spas are conveniently located in its bustling commercial district yet provide a quiet and soothing environment.

• Discuss your needs with the spa’s customer service personnel to determine what treatment will suit you best.  If you wish to avail of several services, request for a quotation and description of the packages that are available for you to choose from.  This way, your visit will cover everything you actually desire. Specify your preference for a therapist so they can assign one who can work well with you.

• As most spa treatments are designed to let you sweat out the toxins from your body, hydrate before arriving at the spa.  Drink lots of fluids at home and after the treatments.  Make sure your meal has settled at least an hour before a body massage.  If you wish to have ample time to enjoy the whirlpool or sauna prior to a body massage, arrive early at the facility. Keep your mind free of any stress-inducing ideas, calm down and let the treatment do its job.

• You will be provided large towels to wrap yourself with during your treatment.  It will be an option for you strip down to your barest essentials or you can discuss what needs to be done with the therapist.  If you are feeling conversational during the session, do so and your therapist will take the cue.  Let him or her know if there is any feeling of soreness in the body or discomfort due to the room temperature.

• When all the sessions are over, show appreciation by handing out a tip. Bring home the pleasant experience and spread the positive vibes.  A second or third or more trips to the spa with family or friends will certainly be more enjoyable and rewarding.