Say Goodbye to Bumps! Lycon Anti Bump Foaming Gel Now Available

Time to bid farewell to bumps after your wax treatment!

Now available at the Cielo Spa Boutique! ($20)

Ingrown hairs, blemishes and congested pores are sometimes experienced after waxing. Anti-Bump Foaming gel will help alleviate these concerns, reduce redness and protect against irritation. A key ingredient that we love is the Lemon Tea-Tree--a natural antiseptic with antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Other key ingredients include: Calendula, Panthenol, and Glycerin. Suggested usage: after treatment and at home

Call today for a waxing appointment and get your Anti Bump Gel to take home! (805) 687-8979

Coming Soon: Purchase Gift Certificates Online!

I am very excited to announce that you will SOON be able to purchase spa gift certificates for your loved ones on Cielo Spa's website!

We know that you get busy during these holiday months--in the next week or so, you can purchase a gift certificate with a click of your mouse! No need to drive to the spa or call!

The holiday season can get hectic and busy, which is why a spa treatment is the perfect gift for anyone who can use a few hours of guilt-free pampering! Buy one for yourself, buy one for family, or give that special someone in your life the relaxation they deserve!

If you have any questions or would like to find out more about Cielo Spa, call us! (805) 687-8979

Tell Us What You Love About Cielo Spa and Come Pick Up Your Free Lip Balm!

As November is rolling in just around the end of the week, Cielo Spa would like to thank all of our loyal supporters by giving away a free lip balm for the month of November! All you have to do is to become a fan of our Facebook Fan Page and write what you love about our spa on the wall!

A part of what I love about serving Santa Barbara busy working moms and stressed-out college students is that I am constantly looking for ways to optimize my spa services to cater your needs. So become a fan, tell us how Cielo rocks your world and come into the Cielo Spa boutique and pick up your free lip balm today!

Cielo Spa Brings the Spa to You

As a spa owner for seven years and having been an esthetician for nine, I understand how busy people can get. Over the years, I have come to notice that many people often do not have the time to go out to a spa for a massage or facial. This is why one of my services is in-home spa treatments.

Calling in-house spa service is great for those who cannot leave the house--you can have a massage while your kids are taking their afternoon nap in the next room! It is also convenient for those who want to host "ladies parties" or bachelorette parties. You can choose to have a bottle of champagne waiting for you after your massage or facial and pick your own ambiance to your liking.

In the past I have worked as a part of an elite team of in-house spa specialists that treated high-profile celebrities in the San Ysidro Ranch. As a part of my in-house service, I will bring the spa to you with soothing music, organic spa products, and anything you may need to make the comfort of your own home feel like a true spa experience. I also bring spa services to travelers who wish to stay in their vacation rentals while getting a massage. You can find me on the Concierge page of Santa Barbara Luxury Rentals.

Cielo Spa also offers group spa services in our beautiful boutique spa in Santa Barbara. You can arrange for your preference of party favors as a part of your package. The options are endless--so call me today (805) 687-8979 and let's get the party started!

Get Ready for Halloween with Cielo Spa!

Halloween is just around the corner and whether or not you've got a few party invitations in your hands, don't forget to drop by Cielo Spa for your own "special treat" before you transform into Little Red Riding Hood or the Wicked Witch of the West.

Cielo knows that this is the beginning of a very jolly time of the year--with Thanksgiving and Christmas just a few months away right after the trick or treaters count up their candies. This is why Cielo wants to remind all the busy moms and single ladies out there that a relaxing massage, a bikini wax, an exfoliating facial, or a full-body salt scrub can really bring out your best inner glow.

The holidays can get stressful--we're here to help! We can cater to whatever your preferences and needs are--so that you stay relaxed and look stunning at each holiday party you attend. Call today for your personal appointment: (805) 687-8979

What's the Yummy Smell at Cielo? 100% Soy Candle That Smells as Delicious as it Looks!

I am very excited to announce that the Cielo Spa Boutique now carries a new scent of Brazil Essentials 100% soy candles--Spiced Cocoa Mint!

I urge you to come into my day spa in Santa Barbara for a relaxing massage or exfoliating facial and then take a part of the spa home with you by choosing one of these deliciously smelling candles.

With the autumn weather upon us, it's a better time than ever to make this year's autumn scent: Spiced Cocoa Mint, a part of your lovely home! The warm and cozy undertones of cinnamon, clove, and a hint of peppermint combined with the rich smell of cocoa truly brings on the spirit of the holiday season! The candles are blended with only natural essential oils.

Come into Cielo Spa today and get your very own Brazil Essential candle today! (Just try not to be too tempted to eat it!) Call us for your personal appointment or any other products we carry at our boutique. (805) 687-8979

Join Lori Cooper on Wednesday, October 14 To Learn How to Find Treasures in Consignment Store!

I am very proud to announce that my personal friend, Lori Cooper of Wardrobe Wisdom will be hosting an event this Wednesday, October 14th from 7-9pm at the Renaissance Consignment Store to teach shoppers like you and me how to find treasures in consignment stores.

As a woman, I know that showing up at a party wearing the exact same dress as another woman is a major "No-No." That is why I love consignment stores because many pieces in these stores are unique and special in the "one-of-a-kind" sense of the word. There are many treasures waiting to be discovered at the Renaissance Consignment Store--don't miss out on this great opportunity to get fabulous tips from wardrobe expert Lori Cooper on how to discover your own treasure!

There will be refreshments at the event and the store will be open just for us!

Banish Stress With a Relaxing Massage From Cielo Spa!

We've all heard it: stress is bad. But just how bad?

According to physicians, stress causes your body to increase adrenaline which then slows your digestive process down. Many stressed people have higher heart rates and higher than normal blood pressures. In some severe cases, stress can cause blood flow to your heart to decrease (because your arteries are constricted), which could then lead to heart disease.

In today's world, it's a challenge to maintain a stress-free life. Our daily lives are filled with stressful things: meeting deadlines, maneuvering through traffic, picking up the kids from school then sending them off to soccer practice...whew!

Don't let stress get the best of you. Come in today for a relaxing one-hour or 90-minute massage that can be customized to fit your special needs. You will walk out refreshed, energized, and more ready than before to take on your day, week, or month!

Call (805) 687-8979 today to schedule your personal appointment.

October's Special: Pumpkin Enzyme Exfoliating Facial

October's strong winds has definitely brought in fall season in full swing! Protect your skin from the harsh cold temperatures by coming in today to enjoy our October special: pumpkin enzyme exfoliating facial. Join the Cielo Spa monthly newsletter list today and receive an exclusive subscribers only discount!

Pumpkin enzymes are a popular skin exfoliate because the enzymes help gently break down the outer layers of skin--leaving it feeling softer and looking fresher. The enzymes digest the dead skin and clears pores for a more natural glow that will take you through the holiday season!

Don't let the change of seasons change the way your skin looks. Come in for your facial today! Call (805) 687-8979 to book your personal appointment!

Check out Cielo Spa's other great spa services for more ways to pamper yourself before the holiday season!

Spa Treaments Are More Than Just Indulgences

Do you ever wonder why Europeans (especially the French women) look so naturally radiant and beautiful? While it is impossible to rule out the benefits of fortunate genetics, there is another factor at play here: regular and guilt-free personal maintenance.

Recently a client of mine professed her love for regular facials because she saw it as a necessary part of her skin care regime. While many people consider getting a massage and facial to be a rare indulgence fit for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries, this client saw it as pure "maintenance."

"After all, you go to get your car tuned up at a shop, why not get your muscles massaged at a spa? It's not so much a personal indulgence as it is simply good personal maintenance."

Talk about healthy body=healthy mind.

As a spa owner, I have seen clients of all types--the ones who come in for a rare and special "treat" and the regulars who swear by spa treatments on a regular basis. The one constant that I see after every treatment is a happy face accompanied by a peacefully satisfied sigh--no one really gets up from the massage bed feeling more stressed.

In this contemporary multi-tasking, deadline-chasing, over-achieving pace of life, it makes my day to be able to send someone off after a relaxing massage or facial, knowing that I have helped someone take a break from all the noise.

Our society may hype up spa treatments to be purely "indulgent" and "luxurious" fit for something to get on a vacation. Wouldn't it also be great to bring a bit of that relaxation into your daily life? Why wait for a vacation when you can take a mini-vacation at Cielo Spa?

Experience has taught me that when we are happy and relaxed, we actually perform better at our jobs. Why wait to give your body the personal maintenance that it craves? Call today for your appointment. (805) 687-8979

Beautiful Skin at Every Age

The first thing people see is most often our face--and inevitably, our skin. As we age, our skin's regeneration cycle (old skin getting sloughed off and new skin emerging to the surface every 28 days) slows down. This requires that we change our skin care regime as we reach different ages so that we properly feed our skin's evolving needs.

In order to have glowy healthy skin that reflects your inner radiance, read on:

20s-35:
• Use a daytime moisturizer with broad-spectrum SPF.
• Keep skin healthy by protecting it, and minimize the damage you’ll see later.
• Develop a daily skin care routine to assist the skin’s natural functions.
• Hydrate skin with a light, water-based moisturizer at night.
• Use a gentle exfoliating product–be careful not to overdo it.

36-49:
• Use a richer moisturizer.
• Always moisturize morning and night.
• Use products to boost cell regeneration.
• Hydrate and protect the delicate eye area.
• Use natural collagen-boosting products.

50s+:
• Provide extra moisturizers high in emollients and essential oils to help keep skin soft and smooth looking.
• Use hydrating masks to soothe and revitalize skin.
• Always avoid excessive exposure to the sun and wind. Use sunscreen to protect your skin from further damage.

Taking care of your skin is important in order to look better when you get older. After all, 60 is the new 50---not only can you live young, you can look younger too!

Read more about how your skin ages and how you can take better care of it.

Skin Toners: Are They Essential To a Healthy Skincare Regime?

I've been seeing a lot of debate over the past few years on the necessity for skin toners---some argue that the only things in need of toners are printers while others swear by religiously using them. So what's the deal with skin toners?

For one thing, skin toners are a great way to take off excess oil and grime from your face that a regular cleanser may not take off the first time around--this will ensure that you have thoroughly cleaned your face (which prevents acne, blackheads, and dullness).

On the other hand, if you have oily skin and are dependent on skin toners to strip away oil from your face, this could backfire. Many strong toners contain alcohol which dries out skin--but if you constantly dry off the oil from your face, your oil glands may go into hyper-overdrive and produce even more oil! For those of you who have oily skin or a shine problem, try oil blotting sheets or a moisturizer that is matte.

The bottom line is, skin toners can be beneficial if you don't go overboard. Don't think that the stronger the toner, the cleaner your skin will get and thus the better you will look. I'd advise you to use a gentle toner (without alcohol) in order to retain your skin's natural essential oils.

Similar to the dangers of over-exfoliation, over-cleaning your face will bring about opposite results from what you desire (skin irritation, redness or dryness of skin). Make sure you moisturize after each cleaning to keep your skin hydrated. (Try Babor Rose Toning Lotion, available at the Cielo Spa Boutique).

In addition to a good daily skincare routine, it's also a good idea for you to schedule regular facials. This will place you in the hands of a skin expert who can advise you on skincare techniques that will help you look younger for longer. Call (805) 687-8979 today to make your appointment today!

Get Ready For Fall Rush With Cielo Spa SB!

School is officially back in session at UCSB this Thursday, which means copious amounts of social activities--free concerts, Greek Life orientation, club mixers, and fun dance parties.

As the bike paths become more crowded and you find yourself invited to more events each night, don't forget to stop by Cielo Spa SB for your beauty treatment to get your skin and body ready for all the back-to-school festivities!

At Cielo Spa, we understand that nothing stresses your skin out more than a full week of rush--the themed parties, the endless meet-and-greets, the strict dress code. This is why we are offering students 10% on their first visit--so come in for a champagne facial, organic massage, or kick off your fall quarter with a great wax! (Offer ends October 31, 2009)

Allow us to help you make the best first impression you can--either on a sorority sister, esteemed professor, or that cute guy across the room. Start off the year with confidence and feel beautiful inside out!

Psst! You can pick up a Cielo coupon card at the Greek Office in the Student Resource Building or in the front lobby at San Nic Hall. Call to make your appointment today: 805. 687.8979.

Cielo Focuses More Than Muscle Relaxation For Your Massages

With the high-pressure demands of our busy lives, a nice and relaxing rub at the end of the week sounds like a pretty heavenly idea. What if I told you that at Cielo, we not only help relax your muscles in our massages, but we also focus on hydrating your skin with yummy smelling healthy products?

A recent client of mine emerged from her massage bed feeling relaxed and beyond. She exclaimed that she felt the massage not only focused on her tense muscle areas, but also felt smoother skin from the high-quality products we used during her massage.

For massage, I use Sombra, a natural pain relieving gel. Sombra has a "cooling effect" on muscle pains for my clients who have intense muscle tension (athletes, professionals who work at the desk for long hours). Depending on my client's needs (relaxation or muscle pain relief), I will use 100% organic Eucalyptus or Lavender massage oils. Eucalyptus is especially beneficial for muscle aches due to its anti-inflammatory nature while Lavender provides great aromatherapy for those who just need to unwind.

When you come in for an organic facial, I will use Talulah--an line of organic skincare products that target different skin types. Every person's skin needs are different (oily, dry, combination), so I conduct a personal skin evaluation under the lamp before choosing an appropriate Talulah product for each client.

I believe that the healthiness of your skin will be attributed by what you eat as well as what you put on it. At Cielo Spa, I strive to pamper my clients by relaxing their muscles as well as by keeping their skin healthy with organic products so that they feel and look better.

Come and experience how organic spa products can enhance your spa experience! For your personal appointment with Cielo Spa, call (805) 687-8979 today!

You Are What You Eat: Healthy Foods for Radiant Skin

A regular skincare routine (cleanse, moisturize, exfoliate) is important to naturally glowing skin. To ensure that your skincare routine is effective, it's important to know that how your skin looks is a reflection of the food you feed it.

Here are some healthy skin foods that will make you glow inside out:

1) Low-fat dairy products: The health of your skin depends on Vitamin A, which can be obtained through low-fat diary products such as low-fat yogurt. Yogurt also contains acidophilus, the "live culture" that helps intestinal health.

2) Blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, and plum: the antioxidant component of these four fruits are the highest of any fruit--antioxidants help keep skin smooth and healthy instead of dull and lackluster.

3) Healthy oils: any oils that are "extra virgin", "cold pressed" or "expeller processed" are considered healthy oils because the essential nutrients in the oils are not lost like they would be in commercially processed oils. These oils will keep your skin lubricated (giving it that glowy look!) while also keeping your body healthy.

4) Whole-wheat bread, muffins, cereals: these are high in selenium, which is essential to the health of skin cells. Studies have shown that the consequences of sun damage is lesser with people whose selenium levels are high.

And of course, always remember to hydrate hydrate hydrate! Drink at least 8 glasses of water every day to keep your skin cells hydrated and to keep your body functioning at its best.

I am a Santa Barbara esthetician specializing in facials, massages, waxing and other beauty treatments. My Santa Barbara day spa, Cielo Spa, is a sanctuary for busy moms and the like to come in and be pampered with high-end spa products that are luxurious and therapeutic. Call in today for your appointment with Cielo! (805) 687-8979 or visit my spa boutique for more beauty products!

Ingrowns Getting in Your Way of Showing Off Beautiful Skin?

Ingrown hair can be a disheartening culprit of ruining beautiful-looking skin (especially right after a great waxing job.)

It is important to take good care of your skin in between each waxing appointment (this means no shaving!) to ensure that your skin stays healthy and smooth.

In response to many of my clients' needs, I sell a post-waxing product called the "Ingrown-X-it Spray". My clients love this product for its natural ingredients that reduces redness and minimizes irritability after a wax. This product visibly minimizes the appearances and discomforts of ingrown hairs while protecting the skin from any negative effects of hair removal.

Don't let ingrown hair prevent you from showing off your beautiful waxing jobs! Make sure your skin stays beautiful and smooth with Lycon's Ingrown-X-it Spray"! For more information about skincare products I carry, visit my Cielo Spa Boutique.

Waxing 101: How Your Wax Product Can Change Your Waxing Experience

Many people have a love/hate relationship with waxing--we love how our skin look and feel after a good wax but oftentimes we're afraid of the pain.

We've heard that regular waxing sessions will eventually thin out hair and diminish hair growth--giving us smoother skin (especially when we take proper care of our skin in between appointments). But did you also know that by choosing the type of wax to use, you can minimize your pain level too?

At Cielo Spa, I use Lycon Lycojet Lavender Hard Wax--a wax that minimizes skin irritation with its special blend of quality resins. Additionally, I apply Pre-Waxing Oil to the area which acts as a barrier between the skin and the wax. This allows the wax to shrink-wrap tightly around the hair and not stick to the skin, reducing client discomfort.

To ensure the comfort of my clients, after each waxing session, I apply Tee-Tree Soothe in order to prevent ingrown hairs as well as moisturize the skin to keep it healthy.

A waxing experience can be dramatically different depending on the skill level of your esthetician as well as the product he/she uses. Stay informed about your options and make sure that your skin needs are met based on whether you have sensitive skin or normal skin.

So before you go in and cringe about a wax, ask your esthetician what type of wax he/she is using to see what works for your skin type. Happy waxing!

The Four "Do's" of Skin Care

It's never too early to start getting into a good skincare habit--whether you are in your 20s, 40s, or 60s...a healthy skincare routine will make your skin glow more naturally, make you look more energetic, and ultimately make you happier because you'll look better!

To get started, there are four basic skincare DO's:

1. Cleansing. This may sound simple enough, but you'd be surprised at how many people go to sleep with make-up on after a holiday gathering, a company party, or a late movie date. You must resist! Wash your face every night with a good cleanser. Try Babor Cleansing Gel & Toner 2 in 1.

2. Exfoliate. Proper exfoliation (weekly or every 2 days) can yield visible results! Find a good scrub and start the habit of gently exfoliating the dead skin cells from your face--not only will your skin feel smoother, you will also help your skin glow naturally!

3. Moisturize. Achieve a good balance between keeping your skin hydrated and not over-moisturizing your skin (which can clog pores and cause acne). Understand your skin type (and if you don't know your skin type, you can always walk into a department store and get a free over-the-counter consultation), and find a moisturizer that best fits you.

4. Apply sunscreen. Use sunscreen religiously! (Even when it's cloudy.) Protect your skin from sun damage by buying a high factor sunscreen and apply it under foundation before you walk out the door. Read more about picking a safe sunscreen.

There is no one and only formula for a great skincare routine. Everyone's schedule, budget, and needs are different so feel free to customize your own skincare habit to your specific situation. Not everyone will be able to afford getting weekly facials (though that does sound nice, doesn't it?) Instead of going out to buy the "latest revolution in facial moisturizer", you will need to pick the skincare product that best treats your skin type. Understand your skin's needs and take some time every day to take care of your skin! After all, it is your largest living body part!

Celebrate With a Private Party at Cielo!

Cielo is proud to announce that we accommodate private parties at our boutique day spa--whether it be a "bachelorette party" (at the spa) or a spontaneous "just because" ladies afternoon away from the kids, Cielo will see to your every need.

Come in for a truly sensual experience--take care of your body and skin (and have fun while you're at it)! We can accommodate your party perks (champagne, strawberries...etc.) that you fancy to bring into your spa party with you!

Enjoy a champagne facial and then have some champagne afterward! Kick off your heels and treat yourself to a relaxing deep tissue massage...feel free to make the day completely yours with Cielo at your service!

What better way to live your life than living in the moment and enjoying the little indulgent things? Give your Blackberrys a rest and call for an appointment today!

Cielo Spa Featured Product for August: Clary Sage Calming Mask

As summer draws to a close and the kids are going back to school, it's time for busy moms to take some time and rejuvenate dull skin left over from a busy season.

We recommend Talulah's organic and nutrient-packed Clary Sage Calming Mask to do the trick! Its certified organic ingredients make it the perfect "secret weapon" to soothe sunburns and to strengthen capillaries!

You can find this product at the Cielo Spa Boutique.

For other relaxing ways to wind down summer, you can indulge yourself and your friends in a weekend massage or take an afternoon off and come in for a facial. Our business is to help busy moms relax and recharge so that they can be even more fabulous!

Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals: Great Way to Enjoy Santa Barbara Living ... and Organic In-Room Spa Services!

One of the best parts about my job (and there are many!) is that I get to meet other business owners in the Santa Barbara area who share some of the same passions as I do.


Recently, I had the immense pleasure of meeting a lovely couple--Graham and Sara Farrar, owners of Santa Barbara Luxury Rentals, whose business strives to be both eco-friendly while offering travelers the unique opportunity to stay at beautiful private vacation homes in Santa Barbara.

When we met, we connected instantly over our common commitment to eco-friendly practices! As many of you know, I carry a wide range of organic skincare products and 100% pure soy wax candles in my Santa Barbara day spa. The best ingredients in skincare are the all-natural ones. It turns out, organic ingredients benefit more than just skin. So when I learned that Graham and Sara use green cleaning solutions in their Santa Barbara vacation homes, it made sense that they would want to provide a healthier and more environmentally-friendly environment for their guests and employees.

Another reason to check out their accommodations is because it's the best way to truly experience Santa Barbara living! People from all over the world come to enjoy a stay at their beautiful Santa Barbara vacation rentals. Plus, staying at one of their holiday villas, cottages, or beachfront family vacation homes can often ends up being more affordable than staying in downtown hotel rooms! Travelers truly get to enjoy immersing themselves into the Santa Barbara community--with the beautiful beach and downtown just a stone's throw away.

For travelers who are not familiar with the area, Santa Barbara Luxury Rentals also offer local Santa Barbara resources on their blog (providing you all you need to get oriented!)

A few weeks ago, I invited Sara in for a maternity massage to help her relax before her late-summer due date. (Using all organic massage oils, of course!) As a busy working mom myself, I understand how therapeutic a pampering massage can be! They can also be the perfect way to enhance your vacation !

So yet another reason to book a Santa Barbara vacation rental with Graham and Sara is that I offer in-house spa services to guests who stay with Santa Barbara Luxury Rentals! So you can get organic spa services in the comfort of your own fully furnished vacation home - and their amazing concierge team will set you up so you can just sit back and enjoy your holiday!

I am so thrilled to have not only met a great couple, but also to connect with a local business that genuinely cares about providing eco-friendly vacation rentals in Santa Barbara! I'm already looking forward to the next time I visit one of their beautiful Santa Barbara vacation rentals to provide in-house spa services!

Countdown of the Top Ten Organic Skin Care Products

In lieu of my passion to share with you the best quality skin care tips and products, I have found a list of the top ten organic skin care products.

Organic skin care is fantastic because it does not consist of chemicals that can irritate your skin in the long run. Just like food, "your skin IS what you feed it." So give it some love and let your natural radiance glow through!

Let's get on with our countdown!

10. Apricot Masque (Eminence)

This skin mask helps keep your skin moist and well hydrated so it’s an excellent choice if you have normal or dry skin. It can also help reduce inflammation. The product contains apricot juice, honey, vitamins and other antioxidants, and other natural ingredients.

9. Lip Moisturizers (Juice Beauty)

These lip balms moisturize but also protect your lips from sun damage with their SPF 8. They are made from plant oils, honey, aloe leaf juice, coconut oil, mango, and more. If you want to take care of your lips but you don’t want to use traditional non-organic products to do so, these can be an effective choice.

8. N Exfoliator (Anna Bellina)

Home microdermabrasion kits are becoming a popular option for people who want to make their face look younger, smoother, and more beautiful. This product is made form Magnesium Oxide crystals which are the same type used in the machines located in cosmetic surgery offices. The product is all natural and organic.

7. Herban Cool Enzyme Peel (Starflower Essentials)

Using a facial peel is a good way to improve the texture and balance of your skin, especially when the peel is made from all organic products. This particular peel includes rosemary, bee pollen, and papaya. To make the peel more luxurious, it has been scented with lavender and peppermint aroma.

6. Talulah Clary Sage Calming Mask

Bring back your skin's natural luster by using this calming mask once a week. Talulah's mask is made from certified organic ingredients that's packed with nutrients--helping you bring out your natural glow!

5. Sage Facial Toner (Eco Beauty Organics)

When you have oily skin, a quality toner can be your skin’s best friend because it can prevent breakouts. This particular toner is made from all organic ingredients, including pure spring water, witch hazel, sage, lemon oil, and other items. Many of these have been certified organic.

4. Body Serum (Just Natural)

A serum is a type of organic skin care item that makes your skin glow and look beautiful. It replenishes the natural oils in the skin to prevent drying. This particular product is made from organic avocado oil, hazelnut oil, pink grapefruit, and more.

3. Nourishing Hand Cream (Saffron Rouge)

Your hands are one of the most likely parts of your body to experience dryness thanks to all of the hand washing in warm or hot water. This hand cream made with organic ingredients such as Aloe Vera, chamomile, lavender, and more can help keep them properly hydrated.

2. Talulah Moonflower Gentle Cleansing Balm

Imbued with naturopathic extracts, whole food nutrients and rare floral essences, our luxurious balm literally melts into the skin, dissolving impurities, softening wrinkles and leaving you fresh and glowing.

1. Environmental Impact Facial Cleanser (The Alchemist’s Apprentice)

With everything that’s in the air and environment today, our skin really takes a beating. This cleanser is designed to help people with sensitive skin to get rid of the pollutants and other environmental elements that can cause their skin to look dull or damaged. The product is made all-natural with organic ingredients.

The "It" Movement: Skin Care and Makeup Go Green

As someone who has been in the beauty and wellness industry for a while, seeing and using organic and all natural skincare products is nothing new. Lately though, I have noticed that more and more skincare companies are "going green." After doing some research on my own, I realized that it has become a popular trend for people to choose "green" products over the traditional (and chemical) ingredients in skincare products.

So what's going on? Many cosmetics companies are also producing new makeup now that is more natural (i.e. mineral makeup). A lot of the times, the industry's new products will follow the general market demand--in this case, consumers are screaming "we want all-natural!" This is great news!

Perhaps more people have now realized that the "fillers" many cosmetics companies use in their products are detrimental to their skin's overall health and long-term appearance. According to the article I found on thirdage.com, "cheaper cosmetics use fillers that make the product more cost-effective, something companies like Aveda leave out in their plant-based products. The Food and Drug Administration does not have a term for natural skin care, stating that all ingredients in cosmetics are chemicals."

So how do you know if you're buying high-quality products? Read the labels carefully! Here are some of the ingredients to avoid:

1. Methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl paraben. Used to extend shelf life of products, but shown to be toxic. Can cause allergic reactions and skin rashes.
2. Diethanolamine (DEA), triethanolamine (TEA) . Can cause allergic reactions, eye irritation and dryness of hair and skin. Toxic if absorbed into the body over a long period of time.
3. Diaxolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea. Can cause dermatitis. Both release formaldehyde, which can be toxic.
4. Sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate. Cheap, harsh detergent and often derived from petroleum. Can cause eye irritation, skin rashes, and dandruff symptoms.
5. Petrolatum. Has no nutrient value for the skin and can interfere with the body's own natural moisturizing mechanism, leading to dryness and chapping.
6. Propylene glycol. Known to cause allergic reactions, hives and eczema.
7. PVP/VA Copolymer. Used in hairsprays and styling aids. Can be considered toxic when inhaled.
8. Stearalkonium chloride. Used in conditioners and considered toxic.
9. Synthetic colors. Should be avoided, as many are carcinogenic.
10. Synthetic fragrances. Can cause allergic reactions.

Read more about organic skincare.

Think about investing in your skin in the long run. Oftentimes, buying a more expensive product that has high-quality ingredients (and many of these products are much more concentrated--to give you more of the "good stuff") will last you longer than buying many of the cheaper alternatives. I carry a wide range of organic skincare products in my spa; you can find them in my boutique.

Cielo Spa SB is Now on Facebook!

I am very excited to announce that Cielo Spa SB is now on Facebook! We have recently launched our Facebook fan page so that we can share exciting news and fun facts with all of our fans that are addicted to Facebook! (Admit it, you sneak a status update inbetween your hectic life just for the fun of it!)

In the upcoming weeks, we will be expanding on the fan page by sharing new discussion topics, interesting skincare news, and useful information for our busy moms. Skincare and relaxation news and updates will be accessible right at your fingertips! For more fun content, you can visit our Wellness and Beauty for Busy Moms in Santa Barbara blog.

To become a fan, just type in: Cielo Spa Boutique in your Facebook search and viola! Invite your friends too and share the fun! We look forward to expanding our Facebook community with you!

Self-Tanners Make Healthy Alternative to Tanning Beds

Who says you can't be tanned and sun-safe at the same time? With today's advancing skincare technology, it's no surprise that a natural glowing tan can be obtained in the form of a bottle instead of through UVA/UVB rays.

As a follow up to our last week's post regarding the dangers of tanning beds, we offer our readers a great alternative to tanning--sunless self-tanners! I carry a wonderful product: BABOR Self-Tanning Fluid. This self-tanner is enriched with vitamins which nourishes and moisturizes the skin while promoting a healthy tanned appearance!

Having a tan is great--it instantly slims you and makes you look more toned and healthy. Just be careful! Decrease your chances of skin cancer and premature aging by protecting your skin with sunscreen with a high SPF factor. You can purchase the self-tanner at the Cielo Spa Boutique for $28.