Saturday, December 25, 2021

Happy Holidays!

 Happy Holidays!!


What can I say? What a year. It's hard to believe my business was not even open until March last spring! Between mandatory closures and my shoulder surgery I honestly feel like this year has been a bit of a blur.

However, I am looking forward to some new things in 2022! The State of California is changing the scope of practice for Estheticians for the first time since 1978. (Yeah, you read that right.) I'm looking into some training on new modalities and potentially adding some exciting new services. I'm also hoping to bring on some new products, and I'll be launching a new facial membership option in January! Stay tuned for all the details on that!

Since some of you have asked, the answer is yes, I am taking new clients again. Covid-19 has definitely thinned the ranks, so if you have friends, family, or colleagues who are in need of some professional skin care, send them my way! I promise to take great care of them.

My sincerest thanks to all of you for your ongoing support of my small business, I would never have made it through the last 2 years without you. I'm so humbled and extraordinarily thankful.

Stay safe & enjoy!
With affection & sunscreen,
Jill

Friday, November 26, 2021

Happy Thanksgiving!

 Happy Thanksgiving! I know that we're all inundated with emails right now but I wanted to send out a quick update before the holiday.


My recovery from shoulder surgery is going exceptionally well!  I have an amazing rehab team (Joel & Olive) and I'm right on target to be back in the treatment room in December. Thank you so much to all of you who have been checking in and checking on me, I've been having all the feels from your texts and notes and emails.

Read on for some holiday season reminders, and a special E-Gift Certificate Promotion going on this week only.

I wish you all a safe and wonderful holiday, and I can't wait to see you soon!
With affection & sunscreen,
Jill

New Online Gift Certificate Portal
I have a new e-gift certificate portal. Everything will work basically the same, you can still email to your recipient immediately, or on a future date. I still have paper certificates available for purchase (directly through me), but please remember to allow plenty of time for USPS delivery slowdowns during the holiday season.

E-Gift Certificate Promotion!
Enter the code HOLIDAY10 when checking out and receive 10% off your e-gift certificate on all purchases over $100. Offer only valid 11/23-11/28. Shop small and give the gift of great skin this year!

Holiday Season Appointments
It's that time of year! A few reminders for this busy season.

  • Plan ahead! I only have a handful of appointments left in 2021, so book now.
  • If you prebook, please put it on your calendar. Over 90% of my clients pre-book so when clients cancel 2-3 days before their appointment, odds are that appt. sits empty, even though I've turned folks away in the weeks leading up to it.
  • Plan on a little extra time to get your appointment. The city is planning on restricting car access around Union Square. Late arrivals change the starting time of your treatment, but not the ending time out of respect to the next scheduled client.
  • Don't wait to place your online product orders. The USPS delivery slowdowns are real, and combined with the holidays will mean packages may take longer to arrive.
  • Cancellation Policy: I respectfully require 48 hours cancellation notice for all appointments to avoid the full-service charge.
  • Breathe! This year it looks like we'll be back to an almost normal holiday season, so come in and relax and enjoy!

Tuesday, October 12, 2021

It's Peel (& SWiCH) Season!


Happy Fall everyone! Now that we're moving into the cooler months it's the perfect time to focus on skin repair. I've got a little refresher on my facial peel offerings below, as well as an exciting new option for the SWiCH™ treatment, opening up this phenomenal peel alternative to those of you who just couldn't swing the twice-a-month visits. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions about which treatment is right for you.


I'll be out of the office from 10/13 until 10/22. It's my first vacation in 2 years so to say I'm excited is an understatement! Be sure to get any product orders in before noon PST on 10/12 to ensure they go out before I leave. Order online here.

Now the bad news...
It looks like I will be having shoulder surgery on November 8th. (I should be getting confirmation on that date today.) My shoulder issues have been going on for about a year and a half - the process initially slowed down by COVID and then an unfortunate misdiagnosis last year. I will (hopefully) only be out for a few weeks. I will be reaching out to everyone with scheduled appointments in an attempt to get you in before my surgery. After the last year and a half, this is obviously not ideal timing for my small business, but the time has come to get this taken care of. Product orders will still go out, shipping twice a week while I am recovering. Thanks for your patience!

With affection, sunscreen, and (soon) a sling,
Jill


Peel Season!
Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids are powerful tools in skin resurfacing. They help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, clear clogged pores, lessen the appearance of pigmentation, brighten dull skin, and even out texture. My current fave? The Mandiclear Peel with a Vitamin A accelerator. A great combo of lactic acid, salicylic acid, mandelic acid, and resorcinol.

  • Different formulations and protocols are available to suit different skin types and conditions.
  • Certain peels can be incorporated into a full-length customized facial, while others are standalone services.
  • Specific home care is required for 2-3 weeks prior to certain peels

$75.-$150. single treatment
*Contact me for a required pre-peel consultation. Please note I do not perform standalone chemical peels on first-time clients. Kindly schedule a Customized Facial and we will discuss your options.


No Time To Peel? Flip the SWiCH!
This is an excellent option for those who simply don't have time for any downtime. The SWiCH Dermal Rejuvenation System is a unique alternative to chemical peels that redefines how we treat aging skin. SWiCH takes advantage of the skin's natural repair mechanism to help restore optimal appearance without first damaging the skin. Safely replenish healthy components without inflicting damage. SWiCH on your skin's ability to repair itself from the inside out! Best results are seen with a series and home care but can be a standalone power-facial as well.

Benefits include:

  • Increased cellular turnover & cellular energy for a full 30 days
  • Increased collagen & elastin production
  • Fine lines diminished, firmness & contours improved
  • Skin is radiant & glowing
  • Little to no downtime
  • Home care is essential to your results! Receive 20% off your first purchase of the recommended homecare with the purchase of a series
$225. single treatment
Series of six - $1215.
(The traditional 2-part treatment with or without microcurrent maintenance is still available. See my website for details.)
*An email or phone consultation is required prior to scheduling to ensure this treatment is right for you.

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

Accutane & Waxing

Bad news. 

You can't get waxed while on Accutane™. Not during your course of treatment, or for 6 months after. Not on your face, or on your body. It can (& will) cause skin lifting. Not a good look to replace those stray brow hairs with a wound that may scab. 👀  Far too often I have had clients who were not informed of this very real side effect of Accutane by their dermatologist. (Also, another reason to go to a reputable skin therapist that will check for contraindications before a waxing appointment.)

The good news? You can still tweeze or get threading done. So the full leg & bikini wax will have to wait, but you can have your skin therapist whip those brows into shape for you.

Tuesday, September 14, 2021

Sensitive & Reactive Skin Quick Tip

Sensitive skin is a pain, sometimes quite literally. Your licensed skin therapist can guide you towards the best product selections for your unique needs (we do have quite an arsenal these days when it comes to soothing it), but here are a couple quick tips that apply to everyone.

First, always patch test your products. When adding something new to your routine, apply a small amount to a small area of your face for 3-5 days. I usually suggest the cheek back where the jaw meets the ear. If something disagrees with your skin, better to have a small silver dollar-sized spot than trying to calm down your whole face right?

Second, resist the urge to add in multiple products at once. I know, we all get excited about a new routine and often want to jump in with both feet. With sensitive or reactive skin, it's important to introduce new products/ingredients slowly, one at a time. If something goes awry, it's much easier to find the culprit. You'll also prevent tossing out something that may have been a good fit if introduced on its own.

Schedule a consultation with your skin therapist, use these 2 tips and you'll be well on your way to "What sensitive skin?" 😊

Tuesday, September 7, 2021

News From August!

I hope this finds you and your family well and navigating this Delta variant the best you can. Based on recent developments, and with respect to the San Francisco mandate regarding other mask-off businesses, I will be requiring proof of vaccination for all services. This is the best way to keep my space as safe as possible for all of you, and for myself. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Read on for a ton of product news below. Please remember I am always available for virtual consults if you need product advice or want to tweak your home care routine.

With affection, sunscreen, and (still) a mask,
Jill

Discontinued Products
Many of you already know there have been some packaging changes as the lab I work with struggles to keep products stocked and not on back-order. Unfortunately, the effects of the pandemic are far-reaching and have affected the sourcing of raw materials and ingredients. I have received word that the formulations below will no longer be available. Please understand this is not by choice and out of my control. Some items do still have limited stock available - I’ve noted that and suggested replacements where applicable below. I am very hopeful that some new formulations will be available in 2022.

Orange Cleansing Souffle - no stock available
Suggested replacement - Botanical Cleansing Oil

Avocado Q10 Body Lotion - limited stock still available
Suggested replacement TBA

DetoxPlus Masque - no stock available
Suggested replacement - Firming Detox Masque (New!)

Rapid Repair - limited stock still available
Suggested replacement TBA

New In The Shop
On to some good news! There is (finally) a new mineral sunscreen, lip balm, a new mask, as well as 3 new Beauty Of Hope candles. Click on the links below for more info or to purchase!

Tizo Ultra Zinc SPF 40 (both tinted and non-tinted for all skin tones!)

Tizo Tinted Lip Protection SPF 45

Firming Detox Masque

New Beauty Of Hope candles based on our national parks!
I am loving these new unique scents and am so happy that BOH is thriving and able to continue expanding their offerings.

Redwood - Rich earth, Moss & Cedar
Denali - Cypress, Juniper Berries & Pine
Everglades - Sawgrass, Mint & Clementine

Tuesday, August 31, 2021

Did Your Vitamin C Serum Change Color?

If your Vitamin C product has changed color, throw it away. Seriously, throw it away. 

Vitamin C in its various forms is one the trickiest in terms of keeping it stable and effective in a skincare formulation. Once it's changed color or oxidized its chemical composition has changed and it's no longer effective as an antioxidant. At best, it does nothing. At worst, it can actually work as an irritant, and even cause blackheads.

Shamefully, some companies still refer to this color change as normal, but it's not. Look for a dark or frosted bottle, and a pump or airless pump in terms of packaging. (Skip jars and droppers for this tricky ingredient.)

If you're looking for a great Vitamin C serum, Triple C&E has been one of my best-sellers for years! Creamy white, stable and effective down to the last drop.

Tuesday, August 17, 2021

SPF In Your Makeup - It's Not Enough.

Ok, this is gonna be real quick. I still hear clients saying "it's in my makeup" when asked if they wear sunscreen daily so I'll say this once more for those in the back.

SPF in your makeup is great. It's an extra bonus layer of protection, and I'm all for it.
But it's not enough.
Why? The amount you apply. No one is wearing 2 finger-lengths or about a teaspoon of foundation on their face, and most certainly not all over their neck and ears as well. (That would be...gross.)

Find a sunscreen you love, and wear it every day. The options are endless these days, there is something for everyone. I'm always here if you need help finding the right formula for your skin.

Tuesday, August 3, 2021

Are You Diluting Your Products?

You've spent some hard-earned money on your skincare routine. Let's make sure you're not slowing down or impeding your progress with improper application.

When applying your skincare products, order and timing are important to get the most out of the action ingredients. I'm referring to those products that pack a punch, not your cleansers or basic moisturizers. This could be an antioxidant, retinol, resurfacer, or peptide serum depending on the time of day. Think of the things that pack a punch.

After you cleanse your skin, apply your serum(s) first. You want the action ingredients closest to the skin. Allow the product to absorb for a few minutes before application of moisturizer and/or sunscreen. Application of one product over another too soon will only "water down" or dilute the formulation, making it less effective. An example I often use for timing with my clients is this – in the evening after cleansing I apply my nighttime retinol serum, then brush my teeth, giving the serum time to absorb, and then go back and apply my eye cream and moisturizer.

The only exception to this is for some prescription Vitamin A users. I have often heard doctors suggest diluting the Rx with a bit of moisturizer for those having difficulty adapting to the full-strength Rx. As always, follow your doctor's advice with all your prescription topicals.

Get your money's worth and get the most out of those carefully chosen ingredients!

Tuesday, July 20, 2021

When Should You Use Antioxidants?

For those who may need it, here's a quick recap of what antioxidants actually do and why you need them.

Free radicals are highly unstable molecules that attack healthy tissues and are the bottom line of every skin issue over its lifetime. Redness, dehydration, wrinkles, sun damage, loss of firmness - the list goes on and on. Free radicals come in many forms - from the air, smoke, and smog, to food, drink, and sun. We're under assault all day long.

Antioxidants give us the ability to neutralize free radicals and the damage they cause. Think of your antioxidants like money in the bank. They also free up your skin to work on other things than constant defense.  Damage that never happens doesn't have to be repaired.

My recommendation is to always use your antioxidant serums in the morning. For most of us, the daytime offers the most exposure to free radicals so we need the most protection. It's important to note that one antioxidant does not cover all free radicals. Different antioxidants work well on different species. My favorite combo is 1/2 pump each of Triple C&E and the Antioxidant Defense Complex. Ringing in at a whopping 20 different antioxidants I know I'm covered for everything the day will throw at me. 

Tuesday, July 13, 2021

Do This In The Shower - Quick Tip For Acne Prone Skin!

 If you have acne or breakout-prone skin try this in the shower:

Always wash your face last.

A lot of the ingredients found in shampoos and conditioners can be fabulous for your hair, but not so great for your skin. Cleanse your skin last, and be sure to get around your ears and the back of your neck - especially if you have long hair.

This will break up any residue from your hair care products, and keep it from sitting on the skin and contributing to breakouts down the road. Happy sudsing!

Saturday, June 26, 2021

June News!

 So the big news is...I'm heading out of town!! I finally get to go see my family for the first time in over a year and a half. We'll be celebrating 3 big milestones - my parent's 55th wedding anniversary, my mom's 85th birthday, and my dad's 90th! (woohoo!) Dates and other tidbits below. If I'm not seeing you this week I'll see you in early July.

Out Of Office Dates
I'll be away from Monday, June 28th, returning Wednesday, July 7th.
Be sure to get your product orders in online before Saturday to ensure they go out before I leave.

Tuesday Tips Are Here!
My blog is back! Starting in May this year I've been writing a weekly tip. A quick read and (hopefully) easily digestible tip based on your questions and situations I see in the treatment room. Check it out here.

Got A Minute?
If you would take a moment to review my business on Google it would be really helpful as I start to rebuild my practice.
https://g.page/jilljodaradvancedskincare/review?np
Do you know anyone who needs some serious skincare TLC or their eyebrows whipped into shape? Your referral means the world to me. 

Candle Closeout - Peach & White Tea
Get 'em before they're gone! Regularly $32., now $24 until I sell out! Click here to order.

Tuesday, June 22, 2021

Blue Light Protection

 I think it's safe to say that we've all had a lot more screen time in the last year. Did you know how this could be affecting your skin? 

It's true. Our phones, computers, flat-screen TV's and tablets all emit High Energy Visible (HEV) light. It is often simply referred to as Blue light due to its range of 400-500nm in the violet/blue light band of high-frequency light. A source of free-radical damage, exposure to this can increase dryness, reduce barrier function, increase sensitivity, lines, wrinkles, and even contribute to pigmentation and a loss of firmness.

So what to do?
I recommend using products that defend against and repair HEV light damage. Liposhield™("phyto-melanin" is what you will see on the ingredient label) is a plant-derived melanin compound designed to both protect the skin from HEV light and scavenge the free-radicals that occur from exposure, both indoors and outdoors.


You can find this powerhouse ingredient in both The Serum and The Eye Serum. Get protected before you log in to that next meeting or binge whatever show you (somehow) haven't watched yet!

Tuesday, June 15, 2021

Your Skin Doesn't Stop At Your Jawline

 Who knew? Ok, we all did, but do you act accordingly with your skincare?

Your neck (and chest) get hit with the same pollution, grime, and UV as your face and are just as susceptible to pre-mature aging. Still, these areas are very often ignored.

Simply start including your neck & chest into your routine. Your antioxidants, exfoliants, serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen. All of it. If you have concerns about your neck & chest, just ask your skin therapist for recommendations to specifically target this area.

Tuesday, June 8, 2021

When To Schedule Your Facial After Cosmetic Procedures

Botox™, injectables, lasers, and ultrasonic technology are everywhere these days. Unfortunately, I've found that many doctors don't mention restrictions to their patients post-treatment, so this week's quick tip is in regards to when you can safely get a facial after these procedures.

2 things to keep in mind:

#1. General guidelines
I will always suggest that you defer to your doctor for this time frame. The guidance below is more of a general rule of thumb I've established from my own experience with clients. For most injectables, 2-3 weeks is the norm. For lasers and other (non-surgical) treatments, 3-4 weeks. 

#2. ASK.
If you regularly get facials and/or waxing, ask your doctor how soon is safe to resume your professional treatments. It's a good idea to also ask if changes to your homecare are necessary, and for how long.

Why?
First and foremost, it is not safe to work on injured skin. You can definitely do more harm than good. With injectables, you do not want a lot of facial manipulation right afterward, we don't want to be potentially moving these materials around your face.

So talk with your doctor, and be mindful of when your next facial treatment is scheduled. Your skin therapist will thank you for not having to reschedule it last minute!

Tuesday, June 1, 2021

Go Ahead! Wash Up Early.

We have all been there. Late day. Long day. Maybe you even fell asleep on the sofa. When it's time for bed, that nighttime routine just seems like too much to handle. So you crash out, dirty face and all.

Leaving the dirt, pollution, sunscreen, and makeup on your face to brew overnight as well as depriving your skin of some quality reparative and regenerative ingredients are just two of the reasons this is terrible for your skin. (It also makes you feel bad in the morning.)

If you've been in to see me for a treatment and expressed this, you've already heard my advice.

Do it early. Six, seven, eight - whatever! 

After a particularly long day, I will often wash my face and apply all my potions RIGHT WHEN I GET HOME even though it's only 7:45.  While I am a firm believer in our circadian rhythms and the cycle of repair that happens at night, early is better than not at all.

Once more for those in the back. There is no rule that says your evening skincare routine has to occur moments before slipping into bed.

Early is better than not at all. Go wash your face.


Tuesday, May 25, 2021

Why You Need Sunscreen Everyday

After the craziness of the last year, a few of my clients have been saying: "Well, I don't go outside that much and now I'm working from home so I don't really need sunscreen."

But you do. 

The thinking here is that obviously, you won't get a sunburn working inside all day so what's the point. But your sunscreen is more than that. True, you will not get a sunburn indoors, but UVA light penetrates glass. It also penetrates cloud cover and is just as potent on cloudy days as sunny days. UVA penetrates deeper into the skin and is the culprit behind a wide array of premature skin aging. (Check out my last post on UVA/UVB here.)

Your broad-spectrum sunscreen protects you from this free-radical damage. Yep, even inside. So keep up the routine and your skin will thank you (and you'll look radiant in those never-ending zoom calls).

Tuesday, May 18, 2021

UVA & UVB

This is a #repost of a blog entry I did a few years back, with a couple of updates. Since I still get this question regularly, it's time for a refresher.

People have a lot of questions (and a lot of confusion) about sunscreen. For this post, I thought I'd tackle UVA and UVB. There is some great in-depth information here from skincancer.org, but here are some key points.


UVA
  • Think A for "aging".
  • UVA penetrates the skin deeply and plays a big role in photo-aging the skin and causing wrinkles.
  • The strength of UVA rays is consistent throughout the day, penetrates cloud cover, and glass.
  • Mainly responsible for tanning.
  • The words "broad spectrum" are your only guide to knowing if your sunscreen protects you from UVA. The FDA monograph will be updated in 2021. Hopefully, an easy-to-understand rating system for UVA will make it in this time.
UVB
  • Think B for "burning".
  • UVB is responsible for damaging the superficial layers of the skin and causing redness and sunburn.
  • Reflective surfaces like water, snow, and ice can create a "bounce-back" effect - multiplying the amount of UV radiation that hits the skin.
  • UVB is strongest in the US from April to October, between 10am and 4pm, but can burn skin year-round - especially at high altitudes.
  • The "SPF" rating on your sunscreen ONLY applies to UVB and refers to extending the length of time it would take for the skin to first show signs of redness, it does not refer to UVA protection.
*graphic credit - skincancer.org

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

The Myth Of The "Base Tan"

I am surprised at how many people still believe this sun myth. Multiple studies have shown that a base tan offers no significant benefits in preventing burning later on. What's worse, the UV damage the skin takes on from this practice, especially if done in a tanning bed is both measurable and risky.

Think of it this way. The tanning response, (production of melanin) is triggered by too much UV exposure in an attempt to protect the DNA inside your cells. 

When you tan, it is literally a cry for help from your skin cells. 

Skip the base tan and practice smart sun behavior - wear a minimum of SPF 30, limit exposure between 10AM and 4PM, and utilize hats and SPF clothing. Your skin will thank you!

Tuesday, May 4, 2021

The Sunscreen Rule

I'm introducing a weekly post - A Tuesday tip! Something short and sweet and hopefully, helpful.

Since it's Skin Cancer Awareness Month I'll be focusing on tips surrounding sunscreen, and busting some sun-based myths. Off we go!

One of the biggest mistakes I see clients making is not wearing enough sunscreen. Yep, I'm talking to you - the dabbers, the dotters, the "it's in my makeup" folks. How much sunscreen do you need to use to get the listed coverage? The sunscreen rule is actually quite simple.

Spread a thin line of sunscreen along the first 2 fingers of your hand. That's enough to cover both your face AND neck.

And no, what's in your makeup is not enough. Think about how much foundation that would be if you apply the above rule...(gross!) and when was the last time you applied foundation all over your neck?

That's it, easy peasy. Now you're covered.


Tuesday, March 30, 2021

Online Booking Now Available For Facials!

 It's finally here! I've opened up my online booking for facials starting today!

The link is available below and is on my website under "Schedule An Appointment".

All the specifics are below - please be sure to read all the details. Most importantly, waxing and multi-service appointments (e.g. a facial and brow design) must still be booked through me. As always, don't hesitate with any questions.

I have been LOVING being back at work. I'll be fully vaccinated on 4/24. (woohoo!)
If I haven't seen your face yet, I hope to very soon!!
Hope you are safe & healthy,
(virtual) xo,
Jill

To schedule a Customized Facial or a Restorative Facial
Click here to book online.

*Please note that if you book a facial online, you will not be able to add on other services on the day of your visit. Please email, text, or call for these multi-service appointments, to avoid disappointment. :(

Online booking policies

  • A credit card will be required to book online.

  • A 48-hour cancellation notice is required to avoid the full-service charge.

  • Confirmations will be emailed 3 days prior to your appointment.

  • Appointments can be canceled or rescheduled online up to 48 hours prior to your scheduled time.

  • My online schedule will be available up to 60 days ahead of time. 

  • Recurring appointments and series will be booked further out as usual. 

To schedule waxing services, ANY multi-service appointment, series, or peel please email me at jill@jjodar.com or text/call 415-997-8141.

For email, voicemail, or text please be sure to include:

  • The service(s) you are looking to schedule;

  • If you'd like the earliest appointment available; or,

  • A specific date and time you're interested in.

General Booking Information

  •  I answer calls, texts, and emails Tuesday through Saturday during my normal business hours, and always check in between clients.

  • I require a credit card to secure an appointment for all new clients.

  • My last facial appointment of the day is 5:30 pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 4:30 pm Thursdays and Fridays.

  • Due to current online booking capabilities, I cannot hold appointment times. I will respond to all inquiries as soon as I can - but please remember that your preferred slot may get booked in between our correspondence or call.

  • If the front door is locked, there is an intercom to gain access to my building. Simply press #83 (or follow the instructions on the screen), and I’ll buzz you in. I make myself available within 15 minutes of appointments, so if you’re earlier than that and I miss you, just try again.

Thursday, February 25, 2021

Winter Skin Tips!

 I hope this finds you healthy and coping the best you can!


Although it's gorgeous and 65 degrees as I type this, winter has arrived with a vengeance in the rest of the country. Our winters here are mild, but I still notice some changes in my skin during this season. Read on below for some winter skin tips, wherever you're located.

No service updates as of right now. I'm still only allowed to do mask-on services. So I am available for Brow Design and the aptly named "2020" mask-on facial treatment. (Yes, I know it's 2021, but I am confident I'll be able to take that off my menu sooner rather than later, and I don't want to jinx it.) My online skincare shop is open 24-7, so no need to run out of anything until we can see each other again. I am also still doing virtual product consults if you need to shake up your routine, or need some advice on a new issue.

I completely understand that some of you are not yet comfortable coming in.
When you are, I will be here.

I cannot wait to see you all again!
(virtual) xo,
Jill

Winter Skin Tips
Protect, revive, and repair that vital skin barrier (year-round!) with the tips below:

Cleansing

  • Properly cleansing your skin is vital, but can become challenging for barrier-damaged skin that might need a bit more nourishment. I recommend changing up your cleansing routine to an oil, milk, or lotion, especially if you're currently using a cleansing mousse or foaming wash. Personally, I love using a cleansing oil for my pm cleanse in the winter. And yes, even oily skins can use a non-clogging cleansing oil, and it's great for makeup removal too. Super dry? This cleansing souffle is my go-to product.
Antioxidants
  • Free-radicals are responsible for damaging the lipids in our skin's barrier that protect, and lock in moisture. You constantly hear about the latest and greatest antioxidant, but the truth is, different antioxidants protect against different things, so your best bet is a topical cocktail of multiple antioxidants, as opposed to just one. I'm a huge fan of vitamin C, but it doesn't protect against Lipid Peroxide, which damages the barrier lipids. I combine my vitamin C serum, with an antioxidant complex (18 total!) in the morning to cover all the bases and provide complete protection. Back when we actually traveled, this was also my go-to before any air-travel to prevent barrier damage and dryness that occurs due to the ozone in plane cabins.
Moisturizing
  •  We all know we need to moisturize and hydrate our skin, but looking for barrier-repair ingredients is key. There are many great choices including shea butter, soy phospholipids, ceramides, and tocopheryl linoleate. Including soothing agents like sea whip is also advised, as inflammation leads to all sorts of problems, including poor barrier function. I love this calming creme in the winter, and for those really suffering, this barrier repair masque is fantastic.
  • Certain emulsifiers, when used in too high a percentage in a formula can actually emulsify the skin's lipids, which will later be rinsed away, resulting in that dry, tight feeling. So you might be applying moisturizer, but it is liquifying the lipids in your natural barrier, leaving you feeling tight and dry, so you apply again.... a vicious cycle. If you think this might be happening to you, have your skin therapist check your current product (or send the ingredient label to me). :)
Exfoliate Gently
  • We're learning the lesson that really aggressive treatments, in general, can often do more harm than good in the long term. While exfoliating surface cells can indeed stimulate the skin to repair itself and produce those vital lipids, it's important not to go overboard. A barrier-damaged skin should steer clear of physical abrasive exfoliants that can irritate and create micro-tears on the surface. Instead, try using a gentle resurfacer, with glycolic or lactic acid, get the renewal process going, and stimulate that barrier repair you need.
For The Body
  • Take it easy on the hot showers and long soaks! The same goes for hot tubs and saunas. If your body skin is really dry, just wash the important bits and get out of there. Also, you might want to check that you're not using a body wash with SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate), which can be irritating to the skin. Lastly, please stop using soap. It doesn't rinse cleanly. Due to its alkalinity, it can actually leave a film on the skin that impedes the penetration of other products. Moisturize your entire body as soon as you get out of the shower to seal in moisture. You can find some great body options here.

Friday, January 22, 2021

Happy New Year!

 Happy New Year!

We survived 2020.

I know I say it in every email, but to all of you who have supported my business and checked in on me in the last 10 months, I sincerely thank you. This year has been brutal for me and my small business, but I am still here!

I don't remember who said it, but in the past 10 months I have often reminded myself of the quote:

"We're not all in the same boat, we're in the same storm."

During my struggles this year, I still know that I am one of the lucky ones. I am healthy. I have a wonderful partner. I have food and shelter. Unlike many colleagues, I haven't had to close the fantastic business that I have built over the last 22 years. And hey, I just turned 50!! So yeah, gratitude.

As I come upon the 8th week of my second shutdown, I feel optimistic we will be moving in the right direction soon. So please, wear your mask, stay apart & wash your hands so we can see each other soon!!!

A few updates below - stay safe & well!
(virtual) xo,
Jill

Updates

  • Standing Appointments
    For those of you who requested to have your standing appointments booked through 2021 - they will be kept on the books until the week prior (as long as the shutdown continues). That way, once this is lifted you will still have your preferred time & day. If you have questions, please let me know!
  • Backorders
    Some restocks have been a bit of a struggle due to Covid-19. As I type this, there are only 3 items currently on backorder, 2 of which should arrive in the next week. Always feel free to message me if you want me to pull a back-ordered item for you when it arrives.
  • If You're Running Low On Something- Don't Wait To Order 
    Due to currently being out of work, I simply cannot keep as high of an inventory as I would in normal times. So if you're running low, be sure to order as my stock will be more limited than normal. If something you need is out of stock, just let me know you want it and one will be reserved for you.