Quick Waxing Checklist

You’ve thought about intimate waxing for months, maybe years. You make the leap of faith and schedule an appointment, only to then think that you know nothing about waxing, but want to ‘get it right.’ Here is a quick list for you to reference to make sure that you are ready for the big day, including before, during and after a wax.

Before Waxing

Grow out hair 2-3 weeks (3 is ideal) if shaving

Exfoliate in the shower the day of your appointment

Avoid or limit caffeine and alcohol

During Waxing

Try to stay relaxed

Make sure to breathe

Hold the skin tight where your Esthetician recommends

After Waxing

Apply the hydrating serum daily

Exfoliate about every other day

For 24 hours avoid anything hot (tanning, saunas, etc.), sweating, and sex

If you still have questions, don’t be embarrassed to ask your Esthetician! We’ll explain and go over how the hair cycle works, the after care, and answer any of your concerns before or at your appointment.

99% of my clients have said it wasn’t as bad as they thought it would be … and that they’d wish that they would have come in to try it sooner. So what are you waiting for?

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

Why is My Skin Dry After a Facial?

You’ve just received a wonderful facial! You are so relaxed and your skin is glowing better than it has ever done before. So, if it feels SO good the day of, why am I feeling dry a couple days after and what can I do about it?

For starters, what estheticians do in a facial is not something that you do everyday. Usually a facial includes one to two cleanses, exfoliation, mask, with all of the ending products like serums, moisturizers, eye cream and SPF. One common exfoliant used in a facial is an enzyme exfoliant that eats away at the glue that hold dead skin cells together on your skin. This loosen process is so effective, yet gentle on the skin, and is a go to for many skin care professionals. So if you loosen it all up, not all of the dead skin cells will slough off right away. Some will be coming off two and three days later.

If this has happened to you and you aren’t sure what to do about it, here are my main suggestions.

#1 Regular exfoliation

Make sure that in your skin care routine at home that you are regularly exfoliating the skin so that the dead skin cells do not build up. If you normally get dry a couple days post a facial, make sure that you exfoliate about day three. That process will help you remove any of the light flaking that you are seeing.

#2 Regular facials

Deep cleanses and exfoliations that can only be done at the spa are important. Since you only get one face, I suggest regular facials to help slow the aging process, work on your specific skin concerns, and to help boost your great routine that you have at home.

#3 Moisturize

Make sure after you’ve exfoliated your skin that you are also using a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin. You may also want to boost your routine right after the facial with a serum. Not only will this help lengthen the glow and results of the facial, but it will help your skin to receive that hydration deeper in the skin so you can skip the dry days.

Using all three of these suggestions would give you the ultimate results and help you to avoid any dryness after a facial. If you do experience dryness, also make sure that you tell your esthetician so that they may be able to adjust one or more of the steps in your next facial too!

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

Why Should I Do a Series of Treatments?

Have you ever thought why something is recommended to be done in a series? Let’s jump right in on why many of your favorite treatments (such as chemical peels, microneedling, and even clinical facial) are best in a series.

I love health metaphors, so let’s pretend you want to get your body ready for the beach this summer. You go to the gym and do a work out. I’m sure that you rushed home, stood in front of a full length mirror, and examined your body in the mirror to see if that hour at the gym worked. Oh, you didn’t do that? Then you know it is the compound effect over time. One work out won’t change your body. One time with your trainer won’t change your body. Day after day, week after week, and month after month will make those changes that you are desiring.

As an Esthetician, I want you to get your biggest bang for your buck! And one of these ways is to offer you a series. Because we realize that doing it once won’t show you the differences. And that it’s these small improvements over time where we can see the results.

Chemical Peels

Depending on which type of peel we are doing for your skin, your current skin condition and your skin goals that you are seeking to improve, we’ll want to stack those 1-2 weeks apart, 4 weeks apart, or 6-8 weeks apart. That doesn’t mean just doing one peel, you won’t see results. But many times these build upon each other. We can do the next step up, keep it on for 10 more minutes, etc.

Microneedling

Microneedling definitely stimulates the collagen and elastin, working on fine lines and wrinkles, helping with acne scaring, and breaking up the pesky sun spots. Done in a series is always the best result. And since Rome wasn’t built in a day, neither are these changes in the skin. You can still see improvements 3 to 6 months after you’ve done this service.

Clinical Facials

I love offering clinical facials where I marry results with relaxation (because who doesn’t want to have their cake and eat it too!) These facials are where we are targeting your skin care concern. If you love what we do in the treatment room, we can also do these in a series to amplify your results.

If you aren’t ready to commit to a series, let’s start somewhere. Hooking you up with the best home care routine is where I like to start because you see yourself daily. (wink, wink) Let’s be consistent and set up an appointment schedule you are comfortable with at the spa. Can’t wait to help you achieve results!

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

Collagen Supplements and Skin

One of the latest trends in the skin industry has been adding in supplements. While we know the American diet is lacking in many nutrients, we also know that taking vitamins and other supplements can help … or hinder or progress that we are trying to make with our skin. Biotin, for example, can aggravate acne while promoting hair and nail growth. So, for me, it’s not just cut and dry.

Treating the skin topically instead of internally has always been one of the truths that I believe. I believe it to be much more effective and this is why. Why you eat or drink anything, the body has a hierocracy system of delivering what is needed where. The heart and lungs will always get first dibs on anything. It will then go to other organs such as the kidneys, liver, etc. The last and final organ to receive the nutrients is also the largest. And you know what that one is. It’s the skin! Because of that, it’s important to use the right skincare routine. (This is not an excuse to eat badly, not exercise, or drink water … because this is still important to help keep our systems in check and not further the problems with our skin.)

When you consume a collagen drink or supplement, your body will break it down, absorbed through the bloodstream and send it where it is needed. You cannot dictate where that may be. Supplements are not as regulated either, so make sure if you choose to take one, that you do your research. Not all supplements are created equal … the same as skin care. The quality of ingredients as well as where they fall on the ingredient label will differ.

As I do more research and experimenting, my opinion may change. I know many that love it and stand by it. But for me, the verdict is still out. I will continue to have a healthy lifestyle and treat my skin from the outside in.

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

How Do I Get Rid of the Blackheads on My Nose?

Believe it or not, when I ask my clients to tell me what they would like to change about their skin, the #1 answer I hear is to get rid of those pesky blackheads on their nose. 99% of the time, when doing a skin analysis in the facial, the clients that I am seeing DO NOT have blackheads. So ... if they aren't blackheads, what exactly are they?

Let's start at the beginning. The pore is the opening of a hair follicle or sweat gland. These terms are used interchangeably by professionals. The pores or follicles down the middle of your face are wider and more visible. This affects the middle of the forehead, nose, and chin area. What you are probably seeing is a sebaceous filament. So what is it and how can you tell the difference between one of those and a blackhead?

I describe a sebaceous filament as a screen door for the skin and pore. It is going to keep the kids in and the flies out. The kids are the lipids and other good things inside of the skin. The flies are the free radicals, pollution, etc that you don’t want in the skin. These are mainly skin colored, clear, or sometimes grey. You can remove them, but within a couple days, they will be back.

Blackheads are dilated at the top of also oxidized, which makes them look dark or black. A blackhead contains sebum (which is oil), bacteria and skin debris. When extracted from the skin, they are hardened as well and look quite different from a sebaceous filament.

So while the sebaceous filaments may seem to be pesky and irritating, and you ‘can’ extract them, you now know that they are harmless and don’t indicate that you aren’t cleaning your skin well. If you are in doubt, let’s set up your next facial treatment where your Esthetician will take a closer look under the magnifying lenses to let you know for sure what you are dealing with.

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

How I Became an Esthetician

If you had told me as a child that I would be an Esthetician when I grew up, I would have asked what that was. I didn't know the slightest thing about how a spa worked or who worked in one for that manner. I had had my hair professionally done, but that was my extent of knowing anything about beauty. I wanted to be a teacher.

Fast forward to me as a mom of three. I really wanted to work with a friend at a gym daycare and thought that it would be perfect for me and what I needed at the time. The stars aligned and I started working there within 2 weeks. A year or so later as we moved into a larger facility, my friend took on the role of managing the spa next door. And since I liked working with her so much, I also moved over 2 months later.

What happened there was a beautiful thing. I felt so at home and at awe of the environment. I wanted to be part of someone's special 'spa day.' I looked into school, but finding out that there was not one close by, I quickly set that idea aside. Only, it really never left me. From the moment I walked into that spa's doors, I was captivated by creating special moments. I started as a receptionist, then assistant manager, and finally manager (at yet another spa).

When the idea of attending Esthetics school presented itself 6 years later, I was all in. Because it's not about just a facial or a smooth wax. It's really about the experience for each client and making magic happen for them. I continued to grow and flourish at school and found that as doors closed, others opened. Did I see any of that coming? Not a chance! But it led me to opening Essential Esthetics by Zoey in June 2016. I haven't looked back since.

I use the knowledge that I've gained from working in every aspect of a spa and teach others starting out how to do the same thing. It's where I want to be each day. See you in the treatment room!

Don't forget to 

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

Why Use a Different Cleanser for Morning and Night?

So you may not have quite as many options for skin care products in your bathroom vanity as I do, but it is nice to have a selection. One of the questions I am asked on a regular basis is why use a different cleanser for morning and night. 

Great question! And here is the answer. First, you definitely can have a one size fits all product for your skin, especially a cleanser. It does it's job and it rinsed and then wiped off the skin with a gentle cloth.

But a lot of times, it's great to have a milky or oil cleanser to grab better at the makeup, dirt, oil, and debris that are accumuluated through the day ... to use at NIGHT before bed. The milk or oil cleansers are better at hydrating the skin with ingredients such as humectants. Because during the night, our bodies are healing and repairing themselves (circadian rhythm), it's great to have something more moisturizing.

And then in the morning, it's awesome to have a foaming, refreshing cleanser that wakes up the skin and revitalizes it gently. I still will use the cloth for both morning and night (switching it out frequently - because clean is awesome.) I'm also a sucker for the baby washcloths because they are so gentle on even the most sensitive skin types. 

By using two different cleansers, you are going to see the best of both worlds. You'll be able to have your cake and eat it too! If you haven't tried this combination out, I invite you to try it soon! Let your Esthetician know when you go to your next appointment, and they will be happy to assist you in finding the right cleansers for your skin.

Don't forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

My Skin Care Philosophies in the Treatment Room

Every Esthetician that I meet has different beliefs in the treatment room. They have services that they know and love … as well as ones that they steer clear of. These have been not only ingrained in us from schooling, but also from our real world experiences. They are essential why we do what we do.

I am a blend of many treatments, products lines that I have worked with closely plus through experiences. My philosophies continue to grow and evolve over time. In fact, I don’t think that they will ever stop changing. My main three skin care philosophies are:

Knowledge opens the mind to know why to do something different

Skin care at home is paramount and will help you achieve your goals

More is not always better

KNOWLEDGE

It’s been said, “You don’t know what you don’t know … until you know.” I challenge myself often to take continuing education (both hands on and online), to try new products, and to step outside of my role as an Esthetician. Asking the question WHY also sparks interest to learn a different approach.

I believe that one of my most significant role as an Esthetician is in the process of explaining WHY you would choose a specific service, product, home care routine, etc. Knowing WHY allows you to start that same process to understand. When we know better, we do better.

AT HOME SKIN CARE

I make parallels all of the time about the gym/trainer and the dentist/brushing. In case you haven’t heard them, let me quickly tell you.

Meeting with a trainer and not returning to do the workouts on your own only allows your trainer to do so much with you on your next visit. Unless your trainer is with you every time, you’ll only be able to progress so far with your physique.

You get your teeth cleaned every six months … but this doesn’t replace the brushing twice a day that you have to do on your own.

The real change and magic doesn’t happen in the treatment room with you. It happens with your CONSISTENCY in your routine at home. You are responsible for 80% of the changes we make. I will be able to get that 80% up to 100% in the treatment room by BOOSTING everything you are doing. If you slack at home, I will also not be able to do as much at your appointments.

MORE IS NOT BETTER

As Americans, we are programmed for faster results with little to no effort. Amazon Prime has ruined our patience. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Likewise, our results with our skin will happen overtime. Our skin cell turnover is ideally 28 days (and slows as we age.) You would need at least 3 skin cell turn overs to start seeing results. Therefore, it stands to reason that you start to see results 3 to 4 months down the road which then progress from there.

There are times to push your skin and times to back off. It’s important for you to listen to your skin and the cues it is telling you. I will do the skin. We may tweak your home care routine and the series of treatments that have been recommended to you. Or we may stay the course. But remember that more is not always better… even though most want to ‘feel’ like a product is working.

I hope to partner WITH YOU in reaching your skin care goals over time. Seek to learn why, be consistent in your home care routine that has been set up for you by your Esthetician, and remember that more is not always better. Thank you for trusting the process and having patience!

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

The Growing Out Dilemma for Your First Intimate Wax

For those that are contemplating receiving waxing for the first time, one of the greatest dilemmas of getting ready for a Brazilian wax is growing out the length. The hairs must be the length of a grain of rice (about a 1/4 an inch long) to wax properly and with little pain. Since many waxers actually start out as shavers, the thought of growing out for that long is daunting.

So how long is the growing out process? I used to recommend about 2 weeks growth from shaving, but I'm finding it is a much more comfortable process PLUS a much better result IF the grow out length is 3 weeks! 3 weeks, ey? Yes! 3 weeks. 

Here's why! The hair has length below and above the skin. If the hair is longer underneath, a tug of war takes place. This causes the pulling out to be a little tougher (on both you the client and the Esthetician.) It could also cause the hair to snap or break, which could result in ingrown hairs. (Trust me on this one --- you want to avoid the ingrown hairs!) Also, when shorter hairs are present, this means more tweezing ... which is definitely more uncomfortable than waxing. (Case in point ---> pulling one nose hair versus waxing the whole thing.) I also feel like tweezing could add to the ingrown hair situation, so depending on the response from the hair (I can feel if it will slide out or is tugging back), we may agree to forgo tweezing altogether.

So what do you do if you are used to shaving daily and then have to wait 3 weeks? The key is to remind yourself of all of the benefits that waxing provides over shaving. I have so many clients that will never go back! So hide your razor and think of these perks:

Waxing is so much better on the skin, resulting in longer period of smoothness

Waxing helps hair to grow back finer and thinner 

Waxing is proven to have less ingrowns than shaving

Waxing will save shavers time each day

While waxing may not be for everyone, I encourage each client to try it at least twice! The majority of clients love it so much more! And from my own experience, I say that waxing is better. So glad that I went through the grow out stage to get to where I am now! Are you ready to try it?

Don't forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

How Do I Grow My Brows Back In?

So you may have tweezed one hair too many for a decade, or your previous waxer may have gotten a little carried away. With full brows being in for a couple years now, I’ve seen many clients that want to add more back in to create a natural, full brow. Brow rehab is a thing, and I’m here to help you on your journey!

What can you expect when you are needing to grow your brows back in? Each hair on your body goes through a growing, resting and falling out phase. When it falls out, another hair is set to take its place. For brows, it could take 6 to 12 months for one brow hair to return. And because you don’t want to keep a hair that isn’t next to and in line with the other hairs that are apart of the current brow, it could take up to a year (or maybe a little more) to transform your brows.

This awkward stage will be minimized. We will work together and communicate what you like and don’t like about your brows. Then I will show you the brows that are in question and we’ll make a decision of how much awkward one can take. During this process, I encourage you to throw your tweezers away. Hide them. Out of sight, out of mind. Do not tweeze any brows so that I can see what is coming in, where it is coming in, and find your natural shape. This makes my job much easier AND (bonus!) helps you to get to your natural full shape sooner!

If brows are being stubborn, then I encourage you to use a growth serum to help speed up that process. Because it can take time for each hair to grow in, it is important to cultivate patience. Also, you’ll still want to keep up regular brow appointments (usually between 3 and 4 weeks). When we keep paying attention to something, it’s remarkable how that encourages them to grow in sooner.

Waxing versus tweezing. Another thing to note here is that when you wax, you are doing more damage to the follicle of the hair (which is great if you don’t want hair clear down on your eyelid.) Tweezing doesn’t have the same effect on the hair follicle. So if we are wanting a hair in the brow shape, but it’s too awkward to keep for now, I will continue to tweeze it versus waxing. Which is also another reason why you need to get rid of those tweezers!!!

If you’ve tried for months (or years) without success to grow your brows back in, it may be time to consider permanent makeup. Since we know every brow has it’s place, adding a little to the head of the brow, or the underneath side can make a world of difference. When choosing a permanent makeup artist, be sure to check out their portfolio, ask about their training and certifications, and make sure that you communicate and feel comfortable about the brow shape BEFORE they begin the service.

If you are ready to change your shape and even just fine tune what nature gave you, let’s get going today!

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

Can I Receive a Brazilian Wax on My Period?

Along with asking if a Brazilian Wax hurts, the next most common question I get asked about intimate waxing is “Can I receive a Brazilian Wax on my period?” Great question! And here is the answer. Ask your waxer! 99% of Estheticians are used to waxing at all times of the month and this is no exception.

Being on your cycle doesn’t mean that anything changes with the hair removal process. Your waxer or sugarist will ask you to wear a tampon, menstrual cup (like the Diva Cup) or a disc when you come in. You may want to take a Tylenol too before your appointment. I recommend too that you really avoid the caffeine and alcohol before the appointment, even if you haven’t in the past! But other than that, everything will be exactly the same process as in previous waxes.

Most clients feel like it’s pretty much the same pain as previous waxes and ends quickly. If you are very predictable and are tracking your cycles, let’s definitely schedule around it if you’d like. But if your aunt flow is random or perhaps you have an IUD and never know when you will have spotting, rest assured that this is part of our job. We will still make you feel comfortable, providing the best wax possible. It actually more often than you think! It’s completely normal. Did that make you feel better? Great!!!

Lastly, since I share my experiences often, I’ll share mine here for you. I get waxed every 5 weeks. This means that every couple cycles, I do hit my wax appointment on my period. It feels the same to me and isn’t any different than any other appointment.

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

Confessions of an Esthetician - Ingrown Hairs

Grab your popcorn and take a seat! Story time is here again!

I’ve been a long term waxer (meaning, I’ve received intimate waxing for years), and one of the things that can happen over time is thinner and sparser hair. The thinning hair still has the obstacle of breaking through the dead skin cells. And as we age, we also have to work harder to keep the dead skin cells cycling at an acceptable rate.

Anywho, this is my way of telling you, that I never got ingrown hairs until I had been waxing a couple years. Fast forward to last year. Mid pandemic … and honestly, I was kind of sucking at the home care routine stuff. Especially my exfoliation and moisturization processes. Out of nowhere, I had 3 ingrown hairs. Say what?!

Well, I have a couple of items that I recommend to clients, so I think to myself… “Today’s the day! I’m going to be the best client ever!” And then proceed to exfoliate in the bath and use the oil right after getting out. I mean, it all feels nice, but I don’t want it to just ‘feel’ nice. I want it to be doing something. So because this is what I do … and I’m a little weird like that, I check in the bathroom 20 minutes later to see what those 3 ingrown hairs are doing. And guess what?! All 3 ingrown hairs had popped through the surface of the skin. Botta bing, botta boom. Say yes!

I always say the best treatment for ingrowns is prevention! But, if you see an ingrown pop up (correction - staying underneath the skin), address it baby! Three of my main suggestions are:

DO NOT perform surgery on yourself.

SAY YES to the aftercare!

And don’t wait until your next appointment. Let’s get you stepping up the aftercare and then we can also use high frequency at your next waxing appointment as well!

If you, too, are struggling with the dreaded ingrowns, I can’t wait to show you options and help you through the process!

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

The Importance of a Yearly Skin Exam

Small changes seem to creep up on us overnight. All of a sudden, you gained 10 pounds, went gray, or a wrinkle appeared. No, it didn’t happen instantly … but sometimes it really feels like it does. When you see yourself in the mirror everyday, you may not notice some changes that are happening in the skin. While I think it’s a great idea to come in for regular facials, it’s an even better one to come in for a yearly skin exam.

What are the benefits of regular facials? In addition to the deep cleanse, exfoliation and targeted masks he or she will apply, your Esthetician will also be looking at any changes (both good and bad) that they see in your skin. They will give you recommendations for an excellent home care routine and suggestions on how to improve your skin so that you can reach your skin care goals.

Estheticians are specialists in skin and skin care, knowing ingredients, technologies and more to help improve acne, rosacea, and slowing down the aging processes. Many skincare specialists get into esthetics because they have a passion for helping others. They may also have suffered from acne or other skin issues. They are experts in the art of a facial. They are not the person you see to check moles, skin tags, and for your yearly check of skin cancer… but many times, Estheticians may be the ones to see something different (or changed) on your skin and recommend that you make an appointment with a Dermatologist.

Dermatologists are trained to inspect the skin and know what looks right and what is concerning. They see skin care and a huge array of skin issues each and everyday. While it might seem scary to you to go, it should feel like a relief to have your skin get the once over by a specialist. They are definitely professionals at what they do. When they ask you if you’ve seen anything that is particularly concerning to you, make sure that you bring up any and all areas of concern, including what your Esthetician has pointed out to you. It’s generally a quick in and out appointment and one that you shouldn’t put off! You’ll wear underwear under your gown if you are more comfortable and with loops (special magnifier glasses) or a magnifier with light they will inspect the skin for anything suspicious.

If you’ve been dreading going to the Dermatologist, let me suggest that you pick up the phone and make the appointment. This is the first step and I’m here to encourage you to just do it!

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

Does my Foundation Count as SPF?

A typical dialogue from me to clients goes something like this. Hello and welcome to Essential Esthetics by Zoey. I am excited to meet you! Let's go over what you already use for your skin. Cleanser? Check. Exfoliant? Check. Mask? Moisturizer? Eye Cream? Check, check, check. What about an SPF? ... Well, I wear foundation and it has SPF in it. Does that count as my sunscreen?

I may try not to cringe or be harsh, but remember that I'm a shoot straight from the hip kind of gal and esthetician. The answer is no, it doesn't count, but it is great for an extra added layer of protection!

I once saw a YouTube video where I watched the amount of foundation that had to be applied in order for it to have the amount of SPF as it said it had. Do you know how many pumps? (Well, I do, because honestly, I couldn't believe that it was actually happening...) It was NINE pumps! N-I-N-E PUMPS of foundation to get the protection on the skin. Could you imagine? Our faces aren't that big. For foundation wearers, the average amount would be two pumps. This is a generous amount but allows you to use a brush or sponge or beauty blender to make it look like your normal skin and to blend down your neck. Watching him apply NINE pumps to the skin was absolutely hideous. 

The absolute BEST thing that you can do for your skin is to wear a daily SPF. This is your insurance policy. A broad spectrum sunscreen will protect you against UV-A and UV-B rays. Many also contain ingredients that also help with free radical damage, which is a major contributor to early aging. Don't have one you love? No problem. I do!!! And I'm happy to show you how to use it so that you'll be a raving fan!

Don't forget to 

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE 

Practice What You Preach

When I became an esthetician, I knew the importance of continuing education. Esthetics school (heck, any school these days) is just the basics. AFTER you graduate, the real fun begins! This is where you get to decide what things most interest you and really dive into those deep topics. 

It was almost immediately after graduating that I knew that I needed to work hard on myself. Specifically my self care. Let's be honest. I was really sucking at it. I was SO good at being a good neighbor, a pretty good wife, a decent mama... but then there was nothing left to recharge myself at the end of the day. Each day was a repeat of the day before. And I was feeling less and less like myself. 

Becoming an esthetician was a HUGE dream. I love making clients feel amazing and helping them with their self care. I also feel like I wanted to be authentic and geniune... no fake here! SO, that started a movement that is still going strong to this day. The movement is what I like to call, "Practice What You Preach."

I will never ask a client to do something that I am not doing OR would not do. I recommend to all of my clients that they receive a monthly facial. So I too receive a monthly facial. Yes, I am perfectly capable of doing one myself with professional products. BUT it is NOT the same thing as going to experience it as a client.

I've had so many experiences. Amazing, glorious ones (like the 2 hour one I had in San Diego - heaven must feel that good) and the 'apply the products with no passion' ones (I won't rat those places out here). Each one reminds me of why I do what I do. And regardless of which treatment I get for the month, my skin thanks me by the healthy glow that lasts for days. 

When you find your passion, I hope that you will continue your education and always practice what you preach!

Don't forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

What is Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy is essentially cold therapy. This is used in many different services and is now being used in facials. You can put different tools in the fridge, ice water, etc and then use them in the facial massage portion of a facial. I’m excited to bring this therapy into the treatment room at Essential Esthetics by Zoey. If you are like me, you’re thinking, that’s cool (literally), but what are the benefits?

First and foremost, you are using extremely cold tools on the skin. This will immediately help puffiness, redness and inflammation. Chronic inflammation can cause many problems in the skin. I see this in most acne clients where the acne is red, inflamed and irritated. Soothing and calming down the inflammation can speed up the healing process with acne and reduce breakouts. Inflammation also speeds up the aging process. Our goals are always to slow down the aging, not to speed it up.

One of the most requested goals for clients that I see is to hep in the eye area, where you can see the stress, lack of sleep, etc. This type of massage can reduce the puffiness in the eye and sinus area.

When using these amazing cryotherapy tools, you can sculpt the face, working from the center of the face to the outer edges and up. This not only feels amazing and looks great for you, but it can also increase circulation and stimulate the lymphatic system to work better. This promotes healing in the skin.

Benefits to any type of facial massage include a stress relieving component!!! Lessening stress in your life through regular facial, massages or other spa treatments helps to slow down the aging that happens in the skin. If you have massage tools at home, I recommend you try it on yourself. Put your tool in the fridge for 20-30 minutes prior to using. Then use gentle and flowing movements from the center of the skin to the outer edges and working in an upward motion. Like a cold shower, it may take some getting used to. But the benefits of removing inflammation, increasing circulation, and relieving tension will have you believing too!!!

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

5 Best Mother's Day Gifts 2021

Did you know that Mother’s Day in the United States is the day where most phone calls are made? Yes it is and YES! We love the moms and wives in our lives. They are truly special and it’s just fun to recognize them. The grocery store aisle will be filled with random knickknacks you could buy her. She’ll love anything you pick out because it comes from you … but here are 5 of my favorite ideas.

#1 – Cards with personal notes

Yes, cards really are still meaningful if they come from the heart. Don’t wait until the last minute to pick out the card. Also, really think about something that you could say that would touch her. Let her know you care and that you love her in writing and also in words.

#2 – Time together

Spending time together, making memories and sharing your love is the best. I love scheduling a lunch date or even getting pedicures done together. Or hey! Maybe both on the same day.

#3 – Wish list

Did you see her eyes light up when she say that shirt at the mall? Or put something in the Amazon cart that she has no intention of purchasing for herself? These are fun gifts because you know she’ll love them … and will still be surprised. Pay attention to what she says (and then keep a note on your phone that lists ideas. You can also use these for her birthday or Christmas!)

#4 – The spa day

Each mom wants to have an escape and a day of relaxation. Gift certificates to the spa make amazing gifts for moms because that creates a reason to make an appointment. Self care is the gift that keeps giving. She’ll come home refreshed and ready to tackle the daily to dos that take over in her life. My favorite, of course, is a heavenly facial. I also enjoy massage. The relaxation and time to breathe really does make a difference. I’ve seen the power it’s had in my life and hope that others give it value.

#5 – Personalize with her interests in mind

Pay attention to what she really loves and get a gift that is centered around that. Flowers, crafts, running, etc. You can find a gift card or a gift subscription to really make the day special. Using google, you’ll find all sorts of things that you never knew existed. A big bonus if it includes a small, local business that you can help support too!

Thank you to all the moms who made us who we are! You are the best and we don’t tell you enough! I love you!

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

What is LED Light Therapy?

LED stands for light-emitting diode and has been studied for decades. It was first studied by Niels Finsen and was call photo therapy. Later, it was also researched by NASA who found that LED improved human tissues in the areas of healing and tissue growth. Each color of light reaches a different level of the skin and also helps with something specific in the skin. Simply put, LED stimulates cell function. Examples of the different cell functions would be to help reduce the amount of bacteria, stimulation circulation, increase production of collagen and elastin, and more.

Each light color corelates to a different depth in the skin called nanometers. Depending on the equipment used will determine the number of nanometers, but there is a gold standard. These usually include the wavelengths that have been studied more frequently to get the best results for the client.

Here is a quick breakdown of the colors, range of nanomenters, and benefits to the skin

Red light - 630-680 nm

• Increases cellular processes

• Boosts collagen and elastin production

• Stimulates wound healing

Yellow light - 590 nm

• Reduces inflammation

• Improves lymphatic flow

• Detoxifies and increases circulation

Green light - 525 nm

• Lessens hyperpigmentation

• Reduces redness

• Calms and soothes

Blue Light - 405-420 nm

• Improves acne

• Reduces bacteria

• Can be used with medications by a dermatologist for precancerous spots

Infrared - 800-900 nm

• Heats tissue in the skin to promote healing

• Known for pain management

• Stimulates Collagen and Elastin

Some of the latest technology is also showing great advancement with using Green Light Therapy to treat acne and shows that perhaps using Blue Light is actually the less effective option of the range. If you’d like to check more into that, search The Skinny on Green Light Therapy by Shelley Hancock.

I love utilizing this technology. Easy, non invasive, it works for every skin type and every skin condition. Doing a series of two to three treatments for four or more weeks in a row will show best results. Sometimes using just one light. For others, utilizing more than one type of light is effective. The number of joules and number of lights will also increase the efficiency and effectiveness of your treatments.

This skin modality of LED Light Therapy is here to stay! And I’m sure that we will continue to learn more in years to come.

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

Sunscreen and Vitamin D

So you are educated and savvy, knowing that wearing your sunscreen daily helps protect the skin from the dangers of sun and skin cancer. But you also know that over 60% of those living in North America (studies range on the percentage) are Vitamin D deficient. Our body converts the sunlight into Vitamin D. D3 is stored in the fat cells and isn’t released into the body to be utilized. Melanin blocks Vitamin D, so the darker your skin, the more likely you are to be deficient. With the recent Covid pandemic, there has been additional light shed on Vitamin D.

So, if you know you are lacking in Vitamin D and you know that sunshine converts to Vitamin D in the skin, how do you get the right amount and still protect your skin? Is there a win/win scenario here?

Low levels of Vitamin D contribute to thinning and fragile skin, a decrease in the elasiticty, suppleness and structural support, and dryness and wrinkles due to loss of hydration.

Having adequate Vitamin D levels protect the telomeres and dna damage. Telomeres are like the end caps of the shoe laces. When damage occurs, these plastic sleeves come off and start to shorten and fray. This shortening process is directly correlated to biological aging. Vitamin D combats against free radicals and oxidative stress, enhances skin’s immunity and healing capabilities.

The good news is that multiple studies show that use of a daily sunscreen does not lead to Vitamin D deficiency. Rarely do people use enough sunscreen to block all of the sun’s rays. Since the skin receives the leftovers of each nutrient, it’s always helpful to treat the skin topically versus internally.

So the answer is, yes! Please wear your sunscreen daily. And yes, treat your skin with amazing skin care that has great ingredients that the skin can recognize and absorb. If you believe that you are low in Vitamin D, check with your doctor about receiving your labs to determine your number. Then listen to his/her advice on how they would like to address your situation.

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE

Understanding Skin Care Buzz Words

There are so many buzz words these days, especially in skincare because ingredients, technology and science are always changing. It’s exciting to see the development in products, but that may leave you feeling a little confused and unsure. Here is an overview of some of them you may have heard floating out there - acids, anitoxidants, plant sources, proteins, and vitamins.

Acids

Acids are wonderful ingredients that help exfoliate the skin, keeping the skin looking and feeling healthy and glowing. You might be thinking that acids are just in chemical peels, but you’d be surprised to know they are in many cleansers, serums, and moisturizers. Different acids target different areas of concerns and reach different levels in the skin depending on the molecule size.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants protect the skin from free radical damage and other environmental pollution that we encounter on a daily basis. Have you ever seen an apple turn brown once you cut it? Well, the same thing can happen to our skin. Antioxidants prevent sun damage, help the skin repair itself, and they can even out your skin tone, making it appear brighter and healthie

Plant Sources

Plant sources are directly linked to natural botanical extracts. Many skincare lines have found that sources in nature are easily accepted into the skin, especially when using high quality, lab tested ingredients. They help fight inflammation and protect your skin from damage and early signs of aging.

Proteins

Proteins are chains of essential amino acids that act like the building blocks for protein in your skin. Peptides are also included in this category and act like little bosses that tell the skin cells what to do and to do those functions properly.

Vitamins

Vitamins are essential for cell functions, helping to boost the immune system, suppress pigmentation, stimulate collagen and provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

While using one of these ingredients is good for the skin, just one is not going to give you the results that you are looking for to keep your skin healthy and youthful. It’s important to choose quality skincare that uses ingredients that work synergistically in the skin. Also, ingredients that are not recognized and absorbed in the skin are not going to be able to perform their claims. Work with your Esthetician in first communicating your personal skin care goals, and then to find the right products that contain ingredients to get you to your goals.

Don’t forget to

Breathe. Let Go. Relax.

Zoey Jolley, LE