Getting Ready for a Facial? Tips for Your First Time!
If you haven’t had an opportunity to have a facial yet, I invite you to come and experience it! If you’ve had a massage, you might already know a little of what to expect. At Essential Esthetics by Zoey, I LOVE treating clients to a facial that I would want to receive over and over again. I like to marry results with relaxation. While product is sitting on your skin, we are wrapping your feet with hot towels, putting your hands into the warming mitts, and lots of light massage.
If you are using retinols or very active products, it is recommended to stop using them 3-5 days before your facial. If you are on Accutane, you’ll need to avoid facials for up to a year after you discontinue the medication. You don’t need to wipe off makeup or really do anything before a facial. We will cleanse, exfoliate and use the LED light therapy every time. Most facial treatments include a mask of some kind as well. If you have any questions before your facial, please ask! Estheticians want to make sure that treatments are right for you. We’ll consult beforehand about your skin goals, and I’ll give you all the details of what I’d like to do to help you achieve them. This will include that day’s appointment, future appointments and recommendations for home care.
After your facial, you’ll want to drink extra water, stay out of the sun, wear SPF and reapply throughout the days coming, and change your pillowcase. You also want to avoid exfoliating and using retinols for a couple of days. If you have questions after your facial, don’t hesitate to ask those as well. We want your skin to be glowing and your experience to be amazing.
Don’t forget to
Breathe. Let Go. Relax.
Zoey Jolley, LE
How Do I Get Rid of These Sunspots?
Maybe you noticed some extra color on your upper lip. Or when you were pregnant, you experienced a butterfly mask. Or perhaps, one side of your face is experiencing sun spots. All of these concerns are under a big umbrella of a term called ‘hyperpigmentation.’ Sometimes these age spots are called sun spots or liver spots. So how do you get rid of these sun spots?
First things first. You HAVE to use a broad spectrum daily sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. You will need to reapply. Foundation that includes SPF is not a replacement for still wearing the sunscreen that is separate from your makeup. This step prevents the sun spots from getting worse and is critical from getting rid of these sun spots.
The next thing that you need to do is to make sure that you are using antioxidants and ingredients that will stop inflammatory reactions in the skin. Antioxidants include vitamin c, green tea extract, vitamin e, licorice root extract, and more. The skin will utilize these ingredients in protecting the skin as well as lightening the sun spots that have already appeared.
My third suggestion is to include exfoliation in your home care and spa treatments. AHA’s (alpha hydroxy acids) not only help to remove dead skin cells, but it will help with texture, wrinkles, and also sun spots. Utilizing chemical peels in the treatment room (light, medium or aggressive - there are lots of options out there) will also help your home care products to penetrate the skin better.
Progress may be slow, which is why I recommend to do pictures, at least on a quarterly basis. Once you start seeing changes, don’t let up on the home care steps. You need to stay the course. Continue to use SPF, antioxidants, and exfoliation to see those sunspots lighten.
Don’t forget to
Breathe. Let Go. Relax.
Zoey Jolley, LE
Welcome to Beautiful Pocatello & Chubbuck
Welcome to the best cities of Idaho. I was born and raised here and am so happy to call this place home. I have loved the community feel and the people that live and work in these cities. If you are new to the area (or visiting,) I'd love to personally welcome you to the valley.
Welcome to the best cities of Idaho. I was born and raised here and am so happy to call this place home. I have loved the community feel and the people that live and work in these cities. If you are new to the area (or visiting,) I'd love to personally welcome you to the valley. Pocatello is the smile capitol of the world too! I hope that you love it here!
There are so many resources to finding your way around the community. I'd love to point you to some of them, and then share some of my favorite businesses located between the mountains.
The Pocatello Chamber of Commerce has many links available right at your fingertips. Just head on over to www.pocatelloidaho.com From there, you can roll your mouse over resources and then member directory which is organized by type of business. You can also click on Life in Pocatello which shares things to do, again arranged by category. I love how easy it is to find what you are looking for!
Another resource is the Idaho State Journal reader’s choice awards. Each year, businesses and service providers are nominated and then voted for. You can see the top 3-5 finalists in each category. I have been a finalist for the last 4 years and counting. Thank you local clients for your votes and supports!
Locals in the area will write Google reviews, so you can read what we like about businesses there. Search for a service or business and click on the stars to see the average, or click on newest, highest, lowest etc to read the individual reviews. Reviews written on Yelp (or other review sites) are likely written by those that don’t live in Southeast Idaho.
The final favorite spot to find what you are looking for is on local FaceBook groups. Two in particular (and you can search in those groups) are Ongoing Yardsale -Pocatello and Busy Kids in Bannock County - Events, Activities, & Services. Lot of questions and answers on where to go and who to see for doctors, dentists, etc.
I am a native resident of Pocatello. When my husband and I were looking for houses, I told him that I wanted to buy a house in Chubbuck so that I didn't have to say that I was born and raised in Pocatello. (That definitely shows that I was young back in the day! Haha!) But I absolutely love living here and am excited to share a couple of my favorite places.
Geraldine's Bake Shoppe and Deli
When you go, you'll need to order yourself a Peanut Butter Candy. This treat is a favorite of the community (as long as you love peanut butter and chocolate.) It's also part of the school district lunch menu and sometimes referred to as Lunch Lady Peanut Butter Candy. It's delicious!
Butterburr's Restaurant
This is a go to for home style cooking. Fresh soups and breads plus awesome breakfasts. You really can't go wrong. My favorite is the SST - which is a soup or salad, sandwich, and treat. All for a reasonable steal! Love the family vibe.
Woodland Orchards
Woodland Orchards has a mobile caramel apple cottage and sells caramel apples (among other goodies) year round. So yummy and addictive. The owners are the sweetest people in the area as well. Open Saturdays across from CostCo in the Pawn One parking lot.
Idaho State University
ISU has a great campus, complete with a sub which has a bowling alley and movie theater. Super fun to hang out where the students are (especially when they've left for the weekend or holiday break!) The campus is beautiful! And don't forget about the awesome Holt Arena (which was once called the Mini Dome - and locals will sometimes still call it that) which hosts the school's football, basketball, plus things like Simplot Games, Monster Trucks, the Rodeo, and other events!
Historic Downtown
Historic Downtown, located at 420 S. Main St. hosts all kinds of gathering events, including Revive at 5, the Farmer’s Market, Art Walks, the kick off of events like Kindness Week, etc. It is definitely worth checking out when there are vendors there. Love them all and am glad that we have gatherings like this in our small community.
The great outdoors & working out
If you like to keep active, we have so many trails, biking paths, rock climbing, fishing, camping, hunting, and more! It’s so nice to be in a place that we can go do all these things without hours and hours of driving. The views here are incredible and even just driving in the foothills can be such a fun activity for the family. Barrie’s Ski and Sports can point you to times for local rides, local running groups, and more, so check them out. Two great workout spots (if you want to hit a gym) are Jriven and James Barrett Fit Fusion Studio. These two beautiful and talented entrepreneurs bring fun workouts in different levels as well as personal training options.
Looking for Brazilian waxing or facials where you get both results and relaxation? You’ve found me and I’m happy to help you! If you don’t find what you are looking for in this post, I hope that you also now know where to look!!! Again, welcome to our community.
Don’t forget to
Breathe. Let Go. Relax.
Zoey Jolley, LE
Is a Chemical Peel Right For Me?
If you have ever seen, read, or heard about someone getting a chemical peel, you may only thing of the sheets of skin peeling off of the skin. (Hey! I’m even guilty of receiving one of those.) But, I’m here to let you know that there are different types of chemical peels. Let’s go over those options … and to find out if a chemical peel is right for you!
There are different acids that are used for chemical peels that target different concerns in the skin. Generally speaking, lactic is the most mild and peels like Jessners (salicylic, glycolic, and rescorcinol) are the most aggressive. The more prepped your skin is, the less likely you are to peel or flake with a light or medium type of peel. The amount of peeling does not determine the effectiveness of the chemical peeling.
Common different acids used for chemical exfoliation are lactic, glycolic, malic, mandelic, salicylic, and resorcinol. These acids loosen and break up the glue holding dead skin cells together, revealing fresh, younger, healthy looking skin. Each acid combination will target different skin concerns like dryness, sun spots, acne, and more. I have options for EVERY skin type and EVERY skin care concern. Meaning, the chemical peel may be right for you. Those that are not good candidates are pregnant, cancer, diabetes, and other major health concerns.
If you’ve always wanted to try it, now is the right time!!! Peel season picks up in September and goes through end of April, mid May (although I offer lighter ones year round.) There may be a peel that is right for you. I can’t wait to show you wait a peel can do. There’s nothing old about a classic treatment!!!
Don’t forget to
Breathe. Let Go. Relax.
Zoey Jolley, LE
New Exfoliation Technique - Dermafiling
One of the most common responses that I hear from clients is that their skin just looks or feels ‘old.’ As we age, the process in which our dead skin cells turn over slows down. When the dead skin cells build up and don’t turn over as quickly, our skin really doesn’t have that youthful glow. Exfoliation is the one of the most important steps in a skin care routine. It is considered a heavy hitter or home run hitter.
As discussed in previous blog posts, there are three different types of exfoliation (mechanical, chemical and enzymatic.) Each of them has different benefits for the skin. I like to utilize all of them in the treatment room and at home.
This summer, while I was doing my month facial, I experienced Dermafiling and feel in love with how it felt on my skin. Think of a light sand paper on the skin, gently buffing the dead skin cells away. You can use these with or without enzymes.
What is Dermafiling?
Dermafiling is a precision skin polishing tool that is triple coated in the United States with finely crushed cosmetic diamond that wrap around the edged of the tool.
What are the benefits of Dermafiling?
While the Dermafiling technique is an exfoliation step, it does much more than that. Here are a couple of my favorite benefits:
Instantly balances the tone and texture of the skin
Stimulates collagen
Stimulates lymph movement
Provides a soft erythemic glow that warms the face as fresh blood and nutrients arrive to heal and repair
Who is Dermafiling right for?
Dermafiling is right for almost anyone, as there are different strengths of the diamond crusted plates. Those who should avoid include high risk pregnancies, diabetes, leukemia, kidney or liver disorders, fresh scars, or sensitive or reactive skin conditions, among others. Your Esthetician will consult with you to make sure that this technique is right for you and your skin care goals.
I’m excited for you to try Dermafiling. Through this month (September 2021), the only facial you can receive this with is The Refresher, the newest seasonal facial to remove summer from your skin and prep your skin for fall. After September, you can ask to add this to your facial! I know you are going to love it like I did!
Don’t forget to
Breathe. Let Go. Relax.
Zoey Jolley, LE
When You Don't Follow Your Esthetician's Advice
As you get done with your facial treatment, you lie on the table absolutely relaxed with glowing skin. I like to call it spa drunk. You get up, get redressed, and open the door to go on your merry way. Your esthetician will give you after care instructions (things to do and not to do right after a facial), plus some options that you can do at home.
Almost every client will come for their facial with a skin condition that they would like to change and make better. Dark under eye circles, blackheads, sun spots, or fine lines. Each problem has a solution that can be solved and enhanced in the right way.
But what if you don't follow your Esthetician's advice?
It's hard to imagine but many clients do just that. While it's nice to receive a monthly facial, what's even better is to improve your skin daily. I love to take into account everything that my hands have felt and what my eyes have seen during the facial into your recommendations. I also know from our consultation if you need easy, fast and simple, or if you'd like to add in your 6th step for the evening. I will give you my expert advice and leave the decisions up to you. These include ideas for future treatments and things to use at home to maximize your results.
Just like the dentist asks you to brush twice a day and floss once. Just like the trainer that works with you once a week and then asks you to put in 4 to 5 more workouts without them. Just like the doctor that suggestions you make changes with your diet and then says to come back in two months to see what they can do to help.
Regardless, the treatment room here at Essential Esthetics by Zoey is a judge free zone. While I give you options and advice, I can't be with you every night encouraging to wash to your face before bed, stop you from picking that pimple that's not quite ready, or reminding you to ‘ice, ice baby’. Don't let that stop you from coming back. In fact, let that encourage you to come back, ask for even more options or different way, and keep trying to improve your skin.
I'd love to be your partner in navigating what we can do to find the right balance for you! Set up your next appointment with me and it will help keep you on track and accountable to your skin care goals.
Don't forget to
Breathe. Let Go. Relax.
Zoey Jolley, LE
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.
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?
Let's go over what you already use for your skin. 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!
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