Which would you like first, the good news or the bad news? Let’s get the bad news out of the way. Unfortunately the cause of rosacea is unknown and there is no known cure. But the good news is that you can suppress the symptoms during a flare-up with the right procedures and products.

Depending on your skin and the severity of your rosacea, procedures such as IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and red light treatments can help to strengthen capillaries. In addition to facial treatments, products such as Obagi Rosaclear and Guinot Red Logic are great for treating the symptoms of rosacea. Some treatments and products that treat rosacea may be acceptable expense items under your Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account.

April has been designated Rosacea Awareness Month by The National Rosacea Society (NRS)  to emphasize the importance of seeking medical help for the skin ailment. Any of the following are a signal to make an appointment for a consultation with a Seasons aesthetician. Our aestheticians can make sure you are taking advantage of all of the procedures and products available to help your skin and insure that you aren’t doing anything to worsen the condition.

• Redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead
• Small visible blood vessels on the face
• Bumps or pimples on the face
• Watery or irritated eyes

• Rosacea by the numbers. It is estimated that rosacea affects more than 14 million Americans.¹ It occurs most commonly in adults age 30 to 60.² And 30% to 40% of patients with rosacea have a close relative with the condition.³ It tends to occur more often in women but more severely in men.²
• Menopause is a red flag. Many menopausal women tend to think they have adult acne when they see red bumps and pimples. However, it is possible that it could be rosacea. In fact, hot flashes might cause the first appearance of rosacea, so visit a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis.
• The sooner the better. People often delay treatment, thinking they have a temporary condition that will go away quickly, yet rosacea is reported to worsen with time—so the sooner treatment is started the better. If you have facial redness, acne-like pimples, flushing of the cheeks, nose, chin, and/or forehead, meet with your physician for a diagnosis and to discuss the prescription-based Rosaclear^® System.
• Avoid the aggravation. Prevent future flare-ups by avoiding things that can trigger rosacea. It might be helpful to keep a journal because everyone has different triggers. The most common ones include sun exposure, vigorous exercise, caffeine, stress, spicy food, excessive sugar and sweets, and alcohol.
• Keep your chin up. According to a National Rosacea Society survey, nearly 70% of rosacea sufferers reported experiencing embarrassment and anxiety because of their condition. The Obagi Rosaclear System incorporates a therapeutic prescription component, as well as products that help calm your skin and minimize the visible redness and blotchiness associated with rosacea. Even better, it is a skin care regimen that is noncomedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores. This can make it easier for rosacea sufferers to face the world and it helps improve their quality of life.

Rosaclear System by Obagi

Obagi has developed clinically-proven products and systems primarily for common and visible skin conditions including: aging, photodamage, hyperpigmentation (melasma and freckles), acne, sun damage and rosacea. Obagi has been featured in numerous publications and received many accolades including being named  ‘Best Skin Care System Sold in a Doctor’s Office’ by New Beauty Magazine.

• Gentle Cleanser
• Metronidazole Topical Gel USP, 0.75%
• Hydrating Complexion Corrector
• Skin Balancing Sun Protection SPF 30

Guinot Red Logic Face Cream

Guinot’s Red Logic Face Cream has rich, melting textures that alleviate the symptoms of irritated and damaged skin by restoring comfort, regenerating and softening the skin, and soothing irritation.

At Seasons – The Spa, our skin specialists are highly trained in treating the symptoms of Rosacea with advanced skin treatments and professional strength products. Call us today for a complimentary consultation and let us help you achieve a clear, calm, and more balanced-looking skin tone, (318) 255-115.

¹ American Academy of Dermatology and the National Rosacea Society

² www.medicinenet.com/rosacea/article.htm

³ www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/160281.php

Are you ready to shed your winter coat and put on that teenie weenie bikini? Here’s the buzz on de-fuzzing with intense pulsed light (IPL).

How does IPL hair removal work?

IPL is fast and effective in eliminating unwanted hair. The laser gets to the root of the of the follicle by going into the shaft and heating the hair at its base, destroying the hair, and effectively stopping or reducing re-growth. Lasers are set to target pigmentation, so laser hair removal is usually more effective on darker hair.

What’s the treatment like?

IPL treatment lasts only 15 to 30 minutes (depending on the area). A gel is applied to the skin to act as a conductor for the laser and help keep the skin cool during the procedure. Our aesthetician will use a hand-held laser tool on the desired area. The procedure can cause discomfort in some individuals, but it’s usually slight and fades quickly.

Do I need to have a consultation before treatment?

Yes. It is our policy to meet with you prior to a laser treatment to make sure you are a candidate for this procedure. It is possible to have your treatment the same day as your consultation as long as there is enough time. If you feel like you may want to have a treatment the same day, please tell our spa concierge when booking your appointment.

How often do I have to come back for the treatment?

The recommended course of treatment is six sessions. However, this will vary based on skin tone, hair texture and the rate of hair growth. We recommend that you wait 4-6 weeks between sessions.

When can I see visible results for hair removal?

The hair reduction is gradual and increases with each treatment. The exact amount varies from person to person and by area.

Will my hair be permanently removed?

Though we know you’ll be thrilled with your results, we can only ensure permanent hair reduction, not complete elimination because it is possible that you may need a touch up in the future.

Before your service:

• Please shave the area to be treated before your appointment.
• Do not pluck, wax, use a depilatory, or undergo electrolysis in the areas you wish to treat for 6 weeks prior to your hair removal treatment. Shaving is good. Everything else is a no-no!
• Avoid any UV exposure to the areas to be treated for 4 weeks prior to treatment.
• Avoid self-tanning products for 4 weeks prior to treatment.
• If you have taken any medications such as Accutane in the last 6 months, please let us know. Certain medications can make your skin more susceptible to damage from the laser.

After your service:

• Some redness and swelling in the treated area is normal, it may feel similar to a sunburn.
• Avoid applying irritants (glycolics, retinoids, etc.) to the treated area for 7 days after treatment.
• Apply sunscreen to the treated area for 6 weeks after the procedure.
• Keep the treated area clean. To avoid irritation, do not scrub the area.
• Do not use deodorant or antiperspirant for 24-48 hours after an underarm treatment.

Ready to get smooth? Call Seasons – The Spa at (318) 255-1155 to schedule your  complimentary consultation. Until May 31st, 2012, you can receive a discount on all IPL and waxing services. For more information, click here. 

Lauren Derveloy, Certified CrossFit Trainer and Seasons Customer Relations Specialist

Lately you are more likely to hear someone ask, “Are you on Pinterest?” than “Are you on Facebook?” or “Do you do Tweet?” But if you are new to the world of Pinterest, it is best described as a virtual pinboarding site that combines imagery bookmarking with the fun of social media. Users (or “pinners”) post images and links onto virtual pinboards and share visual ideas with other pinners. Share the things you love – whether that be health tips, things you want to make, or anything in between.

I love the idea of making “vision boards” with pictures of things that inspire you to live a healthier life. My pinboards include my favorite Paleo and low-fat recipes, fitness routines, inspiring images and quotes, and general wellness tips. While pinning, I have come across pinners whose pinboards provide a gold mine of healthy inspirations. I have compiled a list of these pinners to create my Top 10 Health Experts to Follow on Pinterest. Happy Pinning!

1. SeasonsWC:

   I love to follow Seasons because not only do they have great tips, recipes and links to informative posts, they also share skincare tips from their Aesthetician and news on the best beauty products.

   

2. Dr. Oz:

   His boards include fitness tips and recipes. My favorite pinboard is ‘Oz Approved Desserts’. Yum!

   

3. FitSugar:

   With 27 boards and counting, you are sure to find something you are interested in! They have a whole board dedicated to gluten-free recipes!

   

4. Whole Foods Market:

   Whole Foods’ pinboards include a range of interests related to the organic lifestyle including gardening, recycling and, of course, recipes.

   

5. Health Magazine:

   Their board dedicated to all things smoothie will undoubtedly compel you to blend a green smoothie for breakfast!

   

6. Eating Well Magazine:

   41 boards of RECIPES! Need I say more?

   

7. Shape Magazine:

   If you are looking for great abdominal workouts – Shape has you covered, follow their boards for inspiration and new things to try.

   

8. YouBeauty:

   Like Seasons, You Beauty believes beauty reflects your inner health. Some of my favorite pinboards from their Pinterest page include ‘Yoga’, ‘Makeup Articles’, ‘Favorite Fitness Articles’, and ‘DIY Beauty Treatments’.

   

9. Yoga Journal:

   Pull out your yoga mat! They have pinned everything you need to know about yoga including tips and videos to inspire you to de-stress and exercise more often.

   

10. Whole Living Magazine:

    The health, happiness, wellness, food, and green living magazine has a wide array of boards including ‘Crazy for Quinoa’ and ‘Healthy Chicken Recipes’.

    

At Seasons, we are dedicated to providing individualized treatment and improving your quality of life by providing the best complementary and integrative medical treatment available. Our hope? To transform lives, one patient at a time. Follow our pinboards for great information on health and wellness! Not on Pinterest? Follow this link to request a Pinterest invite.

This guest post was written by Seasons team member Lauren Derveloy, a Certified CrossFit Trainer and coach/choreographer for the LA Tech University’s Regal Blues. Lauren loves using Pinterest as a resource for inspiration and information in her pursuit of healthy living!

Valentine's Day is quickly approaching. Make her melt with a thoughtful gift from Seasons - The Spa!

OK guys…let’s flashback to Valentine’s Day 2011. It’s 5 p.m. and you are on your way home from work when you notice a vendor on the side of the road selling balloons and stuffed bears out of the back of his trunk. Shoot! She has been dropping hints all week but you have somehow forgotten to “do something special” for her. So you pull into the local Walgreen’s because surely they have something you could buy her for Valentine’s Day. Whew! You aren’t the only guy sifting through picked over cards and candy.

There aren’t many options but you think to yourself, “Hey, she will never know I bought this last minute plus she will LOVE this Sponge Bob card and tinfoil-covered chocolate rose.” You get home and present her with the drugstore treasures only to find out that she – in fact – could tell you put little thought into her gift and her face is getting that look right before she says “I’m fine” and starts vacuuming really fast. And, well…you remember how the rest of the night went!

Don’t be a stupid cupid! Give her a gift that we guarantee will knock her socks off (any other article of clothing is up to you)! Here are 10 Valentine’s Day gifts from Seasons – The Spa that will show her you are thinking outside of the box (of chocolates).

• The Dream Gift: Spa Membership. With the Spa Membership, she can pamper herself all year long with services like monthly massages, unlimited yoga classes, sauna sessions, and more! Starting at only $60 per month, we have 3 three unique membership plans to help her de-stress on a regular basis.
• The Romantic Gift: Couples Massage Class. Throw out the usual plans and join us on Valentine’s Day from 5-6:30 p.m. for a class in massage. Learn how to release tension in your partner’s arm, legs, hands and feet and use compression techniques on the torso. Only $35 per couple [$25 for Spa Members]. Class includes door prizes, hors d’oeuvres and wine from Portico Bar & Grill, and a goodie bag. Reservation required (We had to make your responsible for something).
• The Gift of Relaxation: Hot Stone Massage. Relax and enjoy a complete mind, body, and soul treatment with the benefits of a deep tissue massage without the deep pressure. This massage promotes healing and well-being on all levels by using hot stones. 60 minutes, $80.
• Gift For Him: Man’s Facial. This relaxing facial includes cleansing, exfoliation, aromatherapy, steam and extractions as well as special treatment for the beard area. 60 minutes, $65.
• The Beautiful Gift: Liftosome Facial. This firming, radiance-boosting treatment uses a thermal mask that shapes the facial features and diffuses energizing concentrates of Vitamin C and Ginseng. These active ingredients combine with a warming effect and fill the skin with new energy, restore its elasticity and regenerate new cells. 75 minutes, $95.
• The Perfect Gift: A Gift Card for Spa Services of her choice. She keeps saying she hates those crow’s feet around her eyes, but if you’re afraid a gift certificate for Botox might send you to the doghouse, then a gift card will be perfect! Available in any denomination and as always, wrapping is complimentary.
• The Favorite Gift: Clarisonic Pro, Mia, or Mia 2. Starting at only $119, Clarisonic’s innovative technology vibrates at 300 movements per second to clean, soften and smooth your skin. In just one minute, the micro-massage action brush head cleans better than traditional manual cleansing. Available in a variety of colors (Oh, No! Choices! Our friendly spa staff will help you pick the perfect Clarisonic!).
• The Gift of Peace and Quiet: Yoga Classes. Flexibility, strength, muscle tone, pain prevention, stress reduction, and improved breathing. Yoga provides all of these benefits and much more! 12 classes are only $100.
• The Hot Couples Gift: Sauna Sessions. Our Sunlighten infrared sauna has completely transformed the meaning of the word “sauna.” The state-of-the-art, no-steam sauna offers 7 times the effectiveness of a traditional sauna with added amenities including a DVD player. At no extra charge, book the sauna for you and your lovely lady. Starting at $15 per session.
• The Waterworks Gift: Prenatal Massage. This gift is guaranteed to make her cry the happy tears. Now, the hormones might have something to do with it, too, but we know she will love that you thought of her during this special time. The soothing essence of massage allows expectant mothers to feel serene, healthy, and comforted while helping to relieve common ailments of pregnancy. Packages start at $45 for 30 minutes.

Guinot’s Masque Hydra Sensitive was recently named one of the “Top 100 Best Products of The Year” by New Beauty Magazine. Masque Hydra Sensitive relieves and calms your skin with an in-depth treatment that works instantly to help your skin boost its own natural defenses.

Guinot’s Masque Hydra Sensitive helps to:

• Soothe irritations.
• Reinforce the protection of the epidermis and the skins natural defenses.
• Visibly calm redness.

The Masque Hydra Sensitive’s formula includes activators that work on the surface to protect and reinforce sensitive skin. “With sensitive skin, you need to be extra gentle. And if you want gorgeous skin, you’ve got to baby it, and this product does both,” said Seasons Aesthetician Lisa Best. The natural ingredients in Masque Hydra Sensitive like Vitamin E restore, reinforce, and protect lipids from damage caused by free radicals. Chamomile extract and oak sooth irritations deep within your skin while Centellas asiatica extract help revitalize it.

Say goodbye to redness! Sensitive skin is vulnerable and needs extra protection from brutal environmental elements such as temperature variations and pollution. This sensitivity can manifest in the appearance of redness, friction or an itching sensation. “After using Masque Hydra Sensitive, the skin’s natural barrier of defense is reinforced and redness is visibly reduced, leaving the skin feeling comfortable, soothed and moisturized,” said Best.

“At Seasons – The Spa, we use Masque Hydra Sensitive in many of our treatments. Our clients love the way their skin looks and feels,” said Best. Want more good news? This product is also available for purchase at Seasons – The Spa so you can enjoy beautiful skin any time. For an at-home treatment once or twice a week, apply a thick layer to clean face and neck. Leave on for 10 minutes. Remove with water and apply toner.

For more information about spa treatments featuring Guinot’s Masque Hydra Sensitive or to purchase Masque Hydra Sensitive, contact our Spa Concierge at (318)255-1155.

Guinot’s Aromatic Facial is featured in the October 2011 issue of American Spa Magazine. The Aromatic Facial offered at Seasons – The Spa is an all natural facial using essential oils and plant extracts. Great even during pregnancy, this “green facial” provides the “glow” without the chemicals that your body doesn’t need during this important time.

The treatment takes relaxation to a new level with the use of gentle effleurage movements and one of five Aromatic Essential Oils-Balance, Energy, Nourishing, Serenity, and Vitality-that is chosen based on the client’s particular skin type. A pressure-point massage ensures that the skin absorbs the rich plant actives, which help to hydrate, balance, and energize the skin. A custom-blended peel-offmask, also rich with plant concentrates, helps calm the skin and leave it glowing.

For more information about the Aromatic Facial, contact our Spa Concierge at 318.255.1155.

Want clear skin without harmful medication?

At Seasons, it is our goal to help you look and feel your best – as naturally as possible! The latest in our lineup of services, the Acne 12-Week Intensive, is a highly-specific treatment based on the type of lesions and the severity of the acne.

The Acne 12-Week Intensive includes includes:

• A consultation with our Seasons Skin Care Specialist
• An individualized acne treatment plan Complexion Analysis using VISIA
• A series of 12 LED Light Treatments and/or Skin Rejuvenation Treatments using IPL
• Deep-pore cleansing and exfoliating treatments
• 30 days of skin care products specially formulated for acne-prone skin
• The Acne 12-Week Intensive take-home packet including a specialized morning and evening regimen
• Complimentary maintenance and extractions as needed during treatment
• A 10% discount on acne skin care products during treatment

The Acne 12-Week Intensive Package, an $850 value, is offered at just $650. There’s no better way to stop acne dead in its tracks! Beautiful skin CAN be yours.

From December 1st – December 14th, when you purchase Obagi products totaling $350 or more (pre-tax) from Seasons – The Spa, you are eligible to receive a $50 Visa Prepaid Card!

At Seasons – The Spa, we carry a wide variety of quality skin care products to meet the needs of your unique skin type. Because we want you to have the best possible results, all of our products are hand selected by Dr. Goodyear and our skincare specialists. Our staff has chosen Obagi as the leading skincare line for damaged skin.

Obagi has developed clinically-proven products and systems primarily for common and visible skin conditions including: aging, photodamage, hyperpigmentation (melasma and freckles), acne, sun damage and rosacea. Obagi has been featured in numerous publications and received many accolades including being named  ‘Best Skin Care System Sold in a Doctor’s Office’ by New Beauty Magazine.

This is the perfect opportunity to see what Obagi can do for your skin. Visit us during our Obagi Event and give yourself the gift of beautiful skin!

Here’s how to receive your $50 Visa Prepaid Card:

1. Purchase $350 or more of Obagi products from your skin care specialist between December 1 and December 14
2. Request an itemized receipt for your purchase
3. Visit www.obagi.com/healthyskinrewards to complete a short redemption form
4. Print and mail the completed redemption form, along with your original receipt, to the address on the form
5. Obagi will mail your $50 Obagi Visa Prepaid Card directly to you within 4 to 6 weeks

Call today to schedule a complimentary consultation with our skincare specialists. Seasons – The Spa 318-255-1155.

Related articles

• Obagi Sun Shield Wins Self Magazine Healthy Beauty Award
• ‘C’ Your Way To Better Skin With Obagi
• Obagi Named Best Twice by New Beauty
• Ask An Aesthetician: Q&A with Lisa Best

October 2011 issue of ''O Magazine''

In the October 2011 issue of Oprah’s O Magazine, Guinot’s Huile Satinée (Satin Body Oil) is named one of their “favorite skin softeners.” This spray body oil improves the texture, strength, and vitality of dull, dry skin.

Haile Satinée “softens and repairs skin with silk extracts, fatty acids, and vitamin E” said O Magazine. The non-greasy, ultra-fine mist is quickly and effortlessly absorbed leaving your skin soft and super moisturized. The writers for O agree and give Guinot extra kudos because not only does the formula absorb quickly but it “doesn’t leave skin looking slick.”

“Huile Satinée is especially great for nourishing the areas of the body that tend to get really dry like the elbows and knees,” said Seasons Aesthetician, Lisa Best. “Regularly using a body oil will make the skin look younger and reinforce its elasticity.”

Key ingredients include silk extracts, grape seed oil, evening primrose oil, apricot kernel oil, grapefruit, lemon, and sweet orange essential oils. Huile Satinée delivers instant comfort while providing the skin with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Seasons – The Spa is proud to carry the full line of Guinot skin and body products including Huile Satinée. Stop by to shop or sample all of our Guinot products. Consultations with our Skin Care Specialists are always complimentary and available by appointment only. Seasons – The Spa is located in Ruston, LA.  Please contact us at (318)255-1155.