You're going to wax me where?!

Ever since I started working as an esthetician, I boldy stated I would never do a brazilian wax.  As more of a modest person, I couldn't imagine being able to make my client feel comfortable, when I myself, did not. 

So, I suceeded in my promise to myself for quite sometime.  Don't get me wrong, I did bikini's with not much of a problem.  There were normally panties involved.  I also continued to grow more confident with every leg, arm, or brow I waxed.  Waxing is not something you can learn over night.  I still find myself making little mistakes and finding new ways to correct them. 

Where I work now, Being Mind Body Spirit, in Hummelstown, PA, offers brazilians.  I didn't even think to ask when I was hired.  My boss let me know I would be doing them.  I cringed at the thought. 

Instead of coming up with excuses, I took a deep breath and assured myself that I could do this.  I've had my esthetics license for three year, after all!  So I ordered a waxing video.  Queen Bee's Brazilian and Bikin DVD.

I watched it, and was pretty surprised by what I found.  Jodi Shay goes through a few of her clients, even some with problems you may come across, and gives every single one a brazilian.  She explains how to sections everything, which areas can be problematic, what to watch out for, etc.  

Next I found a brave client, and offered her a discounted price so I could practice.  I did so two times before I felt I was ready for full paying customers. 

Now I'm doing them without much thought.  I don't even bat an eyelash.  I feel that I make my clients at ease, becuase I'm now comfortable with the service I'm providing. 

The point of sharing this little breakthrough, is to urge you all to step out of that comfort zone and try something that scares you to death.  It's probably not nearly as bad as you think. 

Zoya Shelby Pedi with black and pink glitter

Another from the new Zoya Beach Collection 2012!  I used Zoya's Shelby and Martha Stewart's black, and deeper pink glitter...I'll have to edit later with their names. 

Shelby, like Arizona was a little thick, but in two coats, it was looking nice!  I looooove the black glitter.  The pictures really don't do it justice.  It looks great in person! 

Hope you enjoyed!

Zoya Arizona Pedi with Glitter!

Purify recently acquired the new Zoya Beach Summer 2012 Collection.  Thankfully one of my clients loved Arizona, and let me put some orange/gold glitter on top!  Love this orange!

It only took two coats for this to reach opacity.  The formula was a little thick, but nothing unmanageable.  I've never loved an orange polish before, but I do now! 

And since we are going with the orange for this post, I thought I would share a picture I took of a sunset, over the river.  Ahhh...One of my favorite things to look at!

And the little goose wondered in at the perfect moment <3
Thanks for reading!  If you have a chance, take the time to watch the sunset tonight.  You deserve it!

What is a facial?

What is a facial?

Might sound like a silly question to some...but believe me, many haven't been lucky enough to experience one!  Most people are curious, but feel silly asking a question such as, 'What is involved in an average facial?'.  Fear no longer!  I'm going to walk through a basic, 50-60 minute long facial.

I like to start by allowing my client to inhale peppermint essential oil.  85% of my clients have a hard time relaxing, and deep breathing, along with the peppermint seem to really help let go of that tension!

Cleansing is the next step.  After that is the amazing feeling neck and facial massage.  If you weren't relaxed before, you should be after this!  All products are removed with moist, warm towels. 

If you need exfoliation I take care of that with some steam. 

Extractions!  My favorite part...but maybe not yours.  This is when the skin is the softest, because of the steam, and I use a small instrument to get any build up of sebum or other dirties out of your pores. ;)  Yeah...gross, but I LOVE IT!

I tone the skin after extractions.  The [comfort zone] toner I use has gentle antibacterial properties, so it makes sure all the extraction sites are clean, with no chances of infection or further breakouts.

Next I use a mask that is appropriate for your skin type.  A hand massage is given while the mask does it's magic.  (Believe me, their masks are AWESOME!)

Once the mask is removed, I apply a moisturizer, and you are left with softer, cleaner, visibly dewy skin!  Gotta love that!

Hope this explained more to any who were wondering.  We also have a shorter 30 minute facial, and a specialized 70 minute facial, which includes more potent, yet gentle ingredients for more mature or possibly, very congested, acneic clients.

Check out Purify on Facebook, and like us!
And here is [comfort zone]'s website
Check out the products and their philosophy on skin care :)

Autism Awareness

It's Autism Awareness Month!  So I had to do some blue nails real quick, even if they aren't the best, you get the idea.

The tips are Milani Bolting Blue.  I used Martha Stewart's Lapis Lazuli glitter over that.  OPI's DS Radiance for the silver line and tip.  On my ring finger is Nicole By OPI It's Up to You. 

Next post will hopefully be with some VIOLET colored nails.  This Friday I will be joining another amazing cause...Zumba for Violet!  My awesome friend and fellow blogger, Devaney, has put together a great fundraiser for families with baby loss.  Here are the incredible raffle prizes that will be available!!!  Also, if you are a mom that loves doing new, creative things, this is the blog to read!

Hope you enjoyed!
-Lexi

For Audrey and Four Leaf Clover Mani

The first picture is more color accurate.  It was a rainy day and I was having trouble catching the different shades of the glitter.  Oh well. 

The lighter shade is China Glaze For Audrey.  I have been seeing it on other peoples blogs and had to have it.  It's a little thick to apply but an awesome color.  The more green color on my pointer and ring is China Glaze Four Leaf Clover.  This color is awesome for spring pedi's!  Went on like a dream and covered in two coats. 

For the glitter I used Martha Stewarts Peridot with For Audrey, and Feldspar on the Four Leaf Clover.  It's hard to see how cool the different colored glitters looked on the opposite colored nail polishes. 

I'm not in love with these pictures.  The next set will be sure to have better cuticles, and better base and top coats, so no chipping! 

If you want to come in to Purify and get your nails green and glittered, let me know!

-Lexi

Glass or Crystal Nail Files

It's an amazing new discovery in the nail world.  Files made from glass or 'crystal' with a super fine grit.  Why are these so amazing?  Let's count the reasons!


1.  The grit is very fine and glides over the ends of the nails with incredible ease.  No snagging, and not as much fringe under the nail's free edge.

2.  As long as you don't drop it, and it's a real glass or crystal file, it will not wear down.  It's a file for a lifetime!

3.  It helps keep your nails healthy.  I've been using one for two months now, as well as the other girls that work at the salon.  We have less chips, less peeling, and generally healthier looking nails.  Along with the use of cuticle oil, you have two of the biggest secret weapons to attain beautiful, natural nails.

4.  It files away the nail very quickly.  It's helped improve the amount of time I spend on nail maintenance, and allows more time for pampering in all the nail services I provide.

We have glass files available at Purify Salon.  Buy one and you're done! 

Keep an eye out for my next post...I'm trying out a new mani :)