Sunscreen Lessons from Blue Water Spa

  

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what's behind your tan

We want to be straight with you - there really is no safe way to tan. When the skin feels direct sun exposure, it screams “HELP!” In scientific terms, this means ultraviolet light is penetrating the epidermis causing the skin to react by producing melanin, aka your suntan. In your mind, a tan may give you that young, healthy glow, but over time it causes just the opposite: a change in skin texture, wrinkling, age spots or worse – the big C.  

We’ve done our research and we’d like to give you a little sun science lesson. This is important stuff that could save your life, or at the least keep you looking younger longer – and who wouldn’t love that?
 

UVA + UVB: the long and short of it

The sunlight that reaches us is made up of two types of harmful rays: long wave ultraviolet A (UVA) and short wave ultraviolet B (UVB). Basically, UVA rays can age us and UVB rays can burn us. Overexposure to either can damage the skin. There’s also a third type of ray, UVC - these are the shortest and strongest, but thankfully they’re absorbed by the ozone layer and don’t typically reach the Earth.

UVA rays penetrate deep into the dermis, the skin’s thickest layer. Unprotected exposure can lead to premature skin aging and suppression of the immune system. And when your skin’s defenses are down, you’re at risk for skin cancer.

UVB rays will usually burn the superficial layers of your skin. The intensity of UVB rays vary by season, location and time of day, with 10AM to 4PM being the peak hours. Sunburned skin doesn’t just feel awful, it can cause permanent damage over time. 

This is why keeping your skin protected is imperative. The next question is what type and level of SPF to use, and what’s the difference between sunscreen and sunblock anyway?

 

        

Classic vs. Mineral: Which is Which?

The active sun protection ingredients are the main difference between the two. Our Classic Sunscreens use organic active ingredients (also commonly referred to as “chemicals”) designed to absorb and dissipate UVA/UVB rays, while our Mineral Sunscreens use mineral (also commonly referred to as “physical”) active ingredients like Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide to scatter and reflect UVA/UVB rays. Our Classic Sunscreens and Mineral Sunscreens are blended into luxurious, moisturizing bases which make up about 90% of the product, and 70% of this includes certified organic ingredients.  

Remember this – our classic sunscreen should be applied at least 30 minutes before sun exposure, while our mineral sunscreens are effective right after application.

All of our formulations, both classic and mineral, guarantee broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays!

 

Organic Spray Sunscreen available at Blue Water Spa

  

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Organic Spray Suncreen at Blue Water Spa! 

 

Hurray for Spray!™ Spritz your sunscreen on the go with this clear, continuous spray in an all natural Citrus Mimosa scent. Offering Broad Spectrum SPF 35 protection, this Farm to Face™ sourced spray will also nourish, repair and hydrate skin with 97% certified organic ingredients like Cucumber, Algae and Strawberry Extracts; and Red Raspberry Seed Oil, a natural sunscreen and anti-inflammatory rich in Omega-3 and 6. Have your fun in the sun and then some with COOLA!

• Easy spray-on application
• 97% organic inactive ingredients
• Infused with anti-aging antioxidants 

  Naturally scented

• Water Resistant (40 minutes)
• No nano-sized particles

it puts a smile on our face to put natural luxury on yours

We're big fans of nature and we like ingredients that we can actually pronounce. So we use only the best natural and certified organic ingredients to create luxurious products that give you the best of both worlds - strong enough to effectively protect, yet delicate enough to sooth, moisturize and nourish your skin without the yucky stuff.

• moisturizes, soothes, enhances sun protection

• anti-inflammatory and skin soother

• high in sterolins, reduces age spots and repairs sun damage

• antiseptic birch leaf extract: skin refresher and circulation activator

• natural photo protector

• antibacterial skin toner

• moisture sealant

• repairs and prevents drying and chapping, provides natural gloss

• skin tightener and emollient

• antiseptic and aromatherapeutic

• excellent moisturizer and softener

• soothing and anti-irritating stimulator of healthy tissue growth

• strong moisturizer and reducer of puffiness

• anti-irritating properties, high in rare essential fatty acids, traditionally used to speed healing

• invigorating skin tightener

• exceptional moisturizer, repairs and prevents chapping

• skin purifier and natural source of vitamin c

• skin hydrator and reducer of irritation

• anti-inflammatory and antiseptic

• natural photo protector, antioxidant

• moisturizing skin soother

• strong antioxidant

• only vegetable oil with vitamin a, high omega-3 and omega-6 content

• skin softener

• soother and tonic burdock root extract: invigorating skin soother

• anti-inflammatory

• softens and moisturizes

• skin tightener

• promoter of skin cell regeneration, achilles reportedly carried it with his army to treat battle wounds

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Perfecting LaserFacial is here! Blue Water Spa.

  

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The Perfecting LaserFacial skin therapy is an innovative, technologically advanced way to promote vibrant and healthy looking skin in men and women. Now you can have a youthful appearance by treating those conditions that are typically associated with premature signs of aging and sun damage, such as excessive redness, large pores, uneven texture, and fine-line wrinkles. The Perfecting LaserFacial procedure has been scientifically proven to diminsh the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by producing new collagen.

The Perfecting LaserFacial procedure utilizes non-invasive laser technology to safely, discretely and effectively treat fine-line wrinkles, diffuse and excessive redness and help manage large pores, uneven skin texture, and scars. You can expect to see subtle yet consistent results after each treatment, without unwanted side effects such as bruising or excessive skin irritation. Treatments can be performed in a relaxed, comfortable manner without the use of topical anesthetics or gel.

How does it work?

By gently heating the upper dermis well below your skin's surface, The Perfecting LaserFacial stimulates collagen regrowth to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Additional heat is generated in dilated capillaries to reduce redness.

How many treatments will I need?

The treatment results are progresssive. On average, you may require four to six treatments in order to achieve optimal results. Every patient's condition and needs vary. For more information about your expected results or the number of treatments necessary, consult your healthcare professional.

What are the possible side effects?

Although most patients report few if any side effects, the most common is a slight redness that disappears within a few hours of treatment.

What kind of textural improvements can you expect with The Perfecting LaserFacial?

Over the course of four to six treatments, you will see the skin's youthful glow and appearance by smoothing out uneven texture caused by aging, sun damage or scars. You will see a more even, healthy complexion as large pores are reduced in size, and minor imperfections are diminished. The individual treatment results are subtle, but the overall effect of multiple treatments can be quite dramatic. Come see what all the buzz is about at Long Island's Best Day Spa, Blue Water Spa. 

Skincare Advice we agree with from Dr. Debra Jailman!

  

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Just as you're packing away your winter coats and leggings (hallelujah!), it's a smart idea to revamp your skincare routine, too. "Skin changes throughout the year, so products you use in the winter months may not work so well in spring and summer," explains Dr. Debra Jaliman, author of Skin Rules. Here, she offers advice for sporting a flawless complexion all season long.

What's your advice for transitioning skin from winter to spring?
I'm a big believer in exfoliation. Skin tends to become oilier when temperatures rise, so switching to an exfoliating cleanser or adding a glycolic acid-based toner will help keep skin healthy and clear. As we head into summer, I recommend swapping out heavy foundation for a lightweight tinted moisturizer (like Stila Oil-Free Sheer Color Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30, $16) to give skin a subtle glow, while protecting it from UV damage. To control excess shine throughout the day, opt for blotting papers, cleansing wipes, and powdered sunscreens. 

In your book, you say expensive cleansers aren’t worth the money. Why is that?
Cleansers stay on the skin for a short amount of time, so you're better off investing in an anti-aging serum or night cream for maximum benefit. As we move into spring, it's more important to choose a cleanser that's right for your skin type. For dry skin, I recommend a creamy formula that's packed with hydrators like hyaluronic acid and glycerin (try Neutrogena Extra Gentle Cleanser, $6) and for oily complexions an exfoliating cleanser with salicylic acid (like L'Oreal Paris Go 360 Clean Deep Exfoliating Scrub, $7) works great.

Is eye cream really necessary?
Everyone needs an eye cream because the eyelid is the thinnest skin anywhere on your body. Plus, there aren't as many oil glands around the eyes which can result in wrinkles — even for women in their 20s. For dark circles and puffiness, look for gel formulas with caffeine to constrict blood vessels and green tea which is a natural anti-inflammatory. If fine lines are more your problem, choose products with peptides and hyaluronic acid to boost hydration. 

As summer approaches, what ingredients should we look for in a sunscreen?
I prefer sunscreens with physical blockers — like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide — which protect against harmful UV rays and won't irritate sensitive skin with rosacea or acne. For very oily complexions, try a mineral powder sunscreen like Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral Powder SPF 30, $28. My personal favorite is EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46, $29 because it's waterproof, lightweight, and blends easily into the skin.

What is the most common skincare mistake women make?
Using new products too aggressively, usually before a big event, can be extremely irritating to skin. If you're trying something new — especially formulas containing active ingredients like retinoids — always start slowly. Approach skin treatments the way you approach exercise: Use only one new product at a time until you're sure you are not reacting negatively to it.

Blue Water Spa Announcing the Addition of Elite laser by Cynosure.

  

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Cynosure's Elite Aesthetic Workstation is one of the most comprehensive laser hair removal, Anti-Aging systems available today. Since it is designed for all skin types, it can treat the broadest range of clients. In addition, the system is effective for treatment of facial and leg veins, as well as hyperpigmentation. The Elite workstation also offers amazing treatments for Rosacea skin which reduces redness, firms the skin and helps with the overall complextion.

This Laser has 4 functions:

-Removes unwanted hair

-Removes hyperpigmentation 

-Facial Redness (rosacea) and splotchy skin and superficial facial veins

-Tightens skin by promoting collagen. 

The Best of Both Worlds 

The Elite removes unwanted hair with unsurpassed efficacy and client comfort. That's because its revolutionary technology combines two optimal wavelengths in one system: the 755-nm Alexandrite laser and the 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser.

Easy, Safe, Effective And Fast
· The 755-nm wavelength has high melanin absorption characteristics and proven long-term results for permanent hair reduction and pigmented lesion removal.
· The high-powered 1064-nm Nd:YAG is the safest wavelength for permanent hair reduction on darker skin types and tanned skin. It is also the wavelength of choice for treatment of facial and leg veins—the most common form of vascular lesions.
· The Elite delivers high fluence from large spot sizes-ensuring deeper penetration, faster treatment sessions and optimal results.

Black Friday/Cyber Monday Spa Specials Free $40 Certificate

  

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Blue Water Spa is offering massage, facials and other spa treatments all day on Black Friday, Nov. 23. Doors will open at 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Appointments available! 516-584-6800

Collagen Mask Facial $130 (usually $180)

Hot Stone massage $100 (usually $100)

Black Friday Thru Cyber Monday (11/23-11/26)  receive a FREE $40 stocking stuffer gift certificate with the purchase of a gift certificate $150 or more

Anti-Aging Tips for Summer Skin Damage from Blue Water Spa

  

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If you embraced the summer with outdoor activities like spending time poolside, at the beach or enjoying nature, you probably caused some unintended damage to your skin – even if you were careful to cover up with SPF and proper clothing. Autumn is the ideal time to repair this damage and restore the health and appearance of your complexion. Read on to review the five most common problems associated with summer skin repair and aging.

Problem 1: Dull skin

After all the sun exposure during the summer months, you’ve accumulated dead skin cells on the surface of your skin.  Since skin might be especially stressed from summer damage, it’s best to go easy on your aging complexion, and head to the spa for a professional microdermabrasion or add a mild scrub to your daily regimen.

Problem 2: Dry skin

Aging skin is more prone to being parched, so when the cool, dry autumn air rolls in, you might find that your complexion is especially thirsty. When looking for new products, try formulas that combine ingredients to address both aging and dryness.

Problem 3: Lines and wrinkles

There’s no question: UV rays worsen the appearance of lines and wrinkles. To make matters worse, the dry, stressed out condition of post-summer skin also makes the existing signs of aging look more apparent. Fall is the key time to address these signs of aging in your skin care routine.

Problem 4: Dark spots

In addition to lines and wrinkles, the sun also triggers skin discoloration, including freckles, dark spots and blotchiness. In fact, doctors report an increase in this type of sun-induced damage during fall. Also referred to as “hyperpigmentation” or “melasma,” there’s no shortage of treatments that are formulated to brighten and balance skin, but finding a formula that works on your skin type without unwanted side effects can be a challenge.

Problem 5: Redness and inflammation

If you’re convinced that you’re the only one struggling with both acne and aging, think again: Good Housekeeping reports that in 2008, of all the women who visited the doctor concerning acne, more than 25 percent were between the ages of 35 and 60. And since hot and humid weather can trigger acne breakouts and increase problems with rosacea, fall is an important time to treat any blemishes or redness associated with adult acne and rosacea.

Fall Skincare, from the experts at Blue Water Spa

  

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Now is a great time to clean out your bathroom cabinet and go on a search for the right products. Once this deed has been done, your regimen should take you through fall and winter, making it easier to satisfy your skins needs. Let these eight dos and don’ts be your guide when creating the ideal fall weather skincare regimen.

1. Do introduce moisturizing products into your autumn skincare regimen. Pair a lightweight daytime moisturizer with a richer nighttime formula to keep your skin comfortable when temperatures drop, or combine your everyday lotion with a moisturizing serum.

2. Don’t retire your sunscreen. Although you likely won’t be spending as much time outdoors, UV rays can still damage the skin and cause premature aging. Take a few minutes each morning to cover exposed areas – face, neck, décolletage and hands – with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15.

3. Do take some time to consider your skin’s specific needs before shopping for new products. Try introducing one new formula at a time and see how your skin reacts. Start by adding a more hydrating nighttime lotion, and if your skin still feels dry, move on to replacing your cleanser and day cream as well.

4. Don’t forgo moisturizing products because your skin is naturally on the oily side. Even oily and acne-prone skin gets drier in the winter. For combination skin, you can just use a moisturizer on the areas where your skin gets dry, like the cheeks.

5. Do invest in products you can use year-round. A moisturizer or serum with antioxidants is one item you’ll use every season, to protect skin from the damaging effects of free radicals, so it’s a worthwhile splurge – and a great way to nurture sun-damaged skin after summer is over.

6. Don’t let your skincare changes stop at facial skincare. The rest of your body – especially rough areas like the feet, elbows and knees – can become parched and dry as well. Lather up with a moisturizing and exfoliating body wash, and be sure to use a moisturizer just as you step out of the shower.

7. Do give your skin some TLC to repair summertime damage. Try taking a week off from any aggressive cleansers, scrubs or treatments and using a gentle cleanser, followed by emollients or natural oils to lock in moisture. 

8. Don’t forget to nurture your skin when you’re out and about. Keep a few moisturizing essentials in your purse or bag, such as a rich, hydrating lip balm and some hand cream to prevent skin from becoming dehydrated.

Clarisonic Facial brush, Blue Water Spa Long Island

  

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Clarisonic is considered a pioneer in the world of skin care technology. Created by the inventors of the Sonicare toothbrush, Clarisonic’s handheld electronic skin care brushes boast the same patented technology to deliver deep cleansing that brings visibly smoother, clearer skin. Although the Clarisonic electronic skin care brush is the iconic symbol of the innovative Clarisonic Skin Care System, Clarisonic’s growing line of interchangeable brush heads and topical products enable you to personalize your regimen for better, more effective results. 

Sensetive Skin Triggers, Blue Water Spa Long Island

  

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Determining whether or not you have sensitive skin can be a pain in the behind. One person may experience mild irritation while another could break out in hives or blisters.

Sensitive skin generally falls into four categories:

• Acne forms when clogged pores become infected.
• Rosacea is askin condition resulting in redness, blisters and thickened skin on the face, nose or eyes.
• Burning or stinging reactions on the surface of skin result from contact with skin care ingredients like lactic acid, benzoic acid, azaelic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, glycolic acid and vitamin C.
• Allergic reactions: (also known as contact dermatitis) result in rashes or hives across the surface of skin.
• 

Identifying the triggers of sensitive skin using this simple guide:

1. The environment

• Weather. When humidity drops in the winter, skin loses its natural moisture barrier, leading to increased skin thickening and inflammation, especially in damaged skin.
• Household cleaners. Many everyday household detergents and cleansers contain ingredients, such as fragrances and preservatives, which trigger reactions in sensitive skin.
• Lifestyle. Frequent, hot showers can strip the skin of its outer layer of protective oils, leaving it vulnerable to external irritants or infections.

2. Skin care ingredients

• Ingredients to avoid. Fragrances and preservatives in cosmetics also cause irritation or allergic reactions. Always look for products that are labeled “fragrance free.”
• Ingredients to embrace. Ingredients such as oatmeal, zinc, chamomile and aloe vera calm and soothe inflamed skin

3. Daily diet

Common foods in your daily diet may affect sensitive skin. Certain processed foods, such as white flour and sugar, can increase inflammation, and reducing these foods in your diet can bring relief.

Dietary supplements benefit specific skin disorders as well:

• Fish oil improves symptoms of eczema, and in some studies, psoriasis
• Zinc can reduce the appearance of acne

Both of these supplements do have some risks if taken in excess or in combination with other medications, so be cautious.