Monday, July 27, 2009

NJ Skin Care Expert Suggests Best Anti-Aging Facials Including Chemical Facial Peels


Question: Hello Valentina- what is the best anti-aging treatment? I’m in my mid-30’s. I have a few small lines and wrinkles, mainly from the sun. I want to start treating and preventing any more from forming! Which treatments do you recommend? I heard chemical peels are good?

Valentina: Chemical peels are an excellent way to treat and combat the signs of aging. However, like T-Shirts, there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to skin care. While chemical peels are wonderful, you really need to have your skin analyzed to see which approach will yield the best results for you.

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions regarding Chemical Facial Peels. I am not addressing questions of deep chemical peels since those are performed only by doctors and plastic surgeons. I hope this helps. And remember, make a consultation to have your skin analyzed before booking an appointment for a Chemical Facial Peel. You want to make sure you are choosing the treatment that is best for your skin.

What is a Chemical Peel?


Typically used on the face, a chemical peel uses an acid solution to remove damaged outer layers of the skin. A chemical peel can smooth skin texture and is great for treating blemishes, reducing wrinkles and uneven skin pigmentation.

Are Chemical Peels Dangerous?

If performed correctly by a trained professional, the risk of injury from a chemical peel is low. However, you should always be aware that there could be negative side effects from any advanced skin care treatment like a chemical peel. These risks include scarring, infection, swelling, changes in skin tone, and cold sore outbreaks. This is why it is so critical to have a comprehensive consultation with the professional who is performing your chemical facial peel. You will be asked about any medications you are on, medical history and exposure to the sun.

Can anyone get a chemical facial peel?


Most people with acne, uneven pigments or wrinkles can get chemical peels. There are different types of chemical peels, so you should inquire about which peel would help the specific condition you are looking to treat. If you have been taking Acutane, you may have to wait before getting your peel. If your skin has a tendency to keloid, another treatment may be suggested for you. A professional consultation will help determine which peel is best for you.

Do Chemical Peels hurt?

Depending on how strong of a peel you get, you can expect a burning and tingling sensation during the peel while the solution is on your face. Remember, a deep chemical facial peel is a different story. I am speaking of lower grade peels that can be performed in a spa by a trained professional.

I hope this helps answer some questions you may have had. If you have further questions, email me at info@dayspaexpert.com .


About Valentina Chistova


Valentina Chistova is a world-renowned aesthetician and beauty expert whose experience encompasses all facets of skin care and body treatments. Internationally trained, educated and certified, Valentina has devoted more than twenty years to her profession. Throughout her successful career she has provided services to many celebrities, including Mrs. Globe 2001, famous socialite and entrepreneur Ivana Trump, well-known KTU radio personality Michelle Vassage and Olympic figure skating champion Galit Chait Prior to opening AQUAMEDICA in Long Branch NJ, Valentina also consulted with leading dermatologists, providing skin care regimes for their patients. Valentina is a member of the National Cosmetology Association and a CIDESCO candidate (Comite International Desthetique et de Cosmetologie Desthetique), which is the highest degree of beauty therapy certification available in the United States and worldwide. Most recently, Valentina completed a rigorous training program with the Spanish organization Wontersaf, one of the world's leading centers for trichology, capillary diagnostics and scalp and hair treatment to combat hair loss and other hair dysfunctions. Valentina also holds a Registered Nursing Degree from Kharkov State University and Cosmetology degrees from the Kharkov Medical Institute in the Ukraine and the Capri Institute of Cosmetology in New Jersey.

Follow Valentina’s BLOG and TWITER

See for Yourself: Don’t take our word for it, take a virtual tour of Aquamedica online and see why we are the #1 spa destination in NJ.

Sign up for our email alerts and be the first to know about huge savings on your favorite spa services!

Our Spa covers the following New Jersey Counties and Cities: Central and South NJ Monmouth County Middlesex County Ocean Shrewsbury Asbury Park Deal Fair Haven Freehold Little Silver Brielle Colts Neck Elberon Fair Haven Highlands Holmdel Keyport Lincroft Long Branch Locust Manalapan Marlboro Manasquan Matawan Middletown Monmouth Beach Red Bank Rumson Sea Bright Sea Girt Belmar Sea Girt Spring Lake Tinton Falls Union Beach Tinton Falls Wall Old Bridge Eatontown

Monday, July 20, 2009

What Are The Benefits of Microdermabrasion? NJ Skin Care Expert Answers


Question: Hi Valentina. I just turned 50, but I don’t want to look it! What is Microdermabrasion and can it help turn back the clock??

Valentina: Microdermabrasion is a treatment that is performed to obtain a deep exfoliation of the outer most layer of skin. Some spas use a wand that has little bits of crushed diamonds. The diamonds brush across the skin’s surface blasting away dead and dehydrated skin cells. At the same time, a powerful vacuum sensation quickly inhales the crushed diamonds and dead skin cells after they make their way across your skin’s surface. Other spas use a crystal free method, where a wand is used with a powerful suction force that lifts dead skin cells and impurities right off your face. I prefer the crystal free as it is less abrasive to the skin.

This is an excellent skin re-surfacing technique that reduces the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, and sun damage over time.

Why Microdermabrasion?

There are numerous benefits to microdermabrasion. The procedure is a quick and painless way to rejuvenate and refresh the overall appearance of your skin. One of the most noteworthy advantages is that there is no downtime after treatment.

Think of how a snake sheds its skin. We need to do the same. When we remove the outer most layer of skin that has become clogged with impurities and dead cells, our complexion instantly looks brighter and more vibrant. Although you may not realize it, impurities within the skin have a grayish tint. Once you remove them, you will see a big difference.

If you are serious about beginning an anti-aging regimen, consider alternating between microdermabrasion and a gentle chemical peel. Both treatments work in conjunction to help shed old layers of skin that have become creased with wrinkles and damaged by the sun. You will be amazed at the results!

Stay connected! Follow my blog at www.dayspaexpert.com or email me at info@dayspaexpert.com for more advice.



About Valentina Chistova

Valentina Chistova is a world-renowned aesthetician and beauty expert whose experience encompasses all facets of skin care and body treatments. Internationally trained, educated and certified, Valentina has devoted more than twenty years to her profession. Throughout her successful career she has provided services to many celebrities, including Mrs. Globe 2001, famous socialite and entrepreneur Ivana Trump, well-known KTU radio personality Michelle Vassage and Olympic figure skating champion Galit Chait Prior to opening AQUAMEDICA in Long Branch NJ, Valentina also consulted with leading dermatologists, providing skin care regimes for their patients. Valentina is a member of the National Cosmetology Association and a CIDESCO candidate (Comite International Desthetique et de Cosmetologie Desthetique), which is the highest degree of beauty therapy certification available in the United States and worldwide. Most recently, Valentina completed a rigorous training program with the Spanish organization Wontersaf, one of the world's leading centers for trichology, capillary diagnostics and scalp and hair treatment to combat hair loss and other hair dysfunctions. Valentina also holds a Registered Nursing Degree from Kharkov State University and Cosmetology degrees from the Kharkov Medical

Institute in the Ukraine and the Capri Institute of Cosmetology in New Jersey.Follow Valentina’s BLOG and TWITER

See for Yourself: Don’t take our word for it, take a virtual tour of Aquamedica online and see why we are the #1 spa destination in NJ.

Sign up for our email alerts and be the first to know about huge savings on your favorite spa services!

Our Spa covers the following New Jersey Counties and Cities: Central and South NJ Monmouth County Middlesex County Ocean Shrewsbury Asbury Park Deal Fair Haven Freehold Little Silver Brielle Colts Neck Elberon Fair Haven Highlands Holmdel Keyport Lincroft Long Branch Locust Manalapan Marlboro Manasquan Matawan Middletown Monmouth Beach Red Bank Rumson Sea Bright Sea Girt Belmar Sea Girt Spring Lake Tinton Falls Union Beach Tinton Falls Wall Old Bridge Eatontown

Sunday, July 12, 2009

HAVE YOUR NEXT BIRTHDAY PARTY AT AQUAMEDICA SPA IN NJ


Question: Hi Valentina- my daughter is turning 16 and I wanted to plan a spa party for her at your spa. How many girls could you accommodate for a sweet 16 spa party and about how long would the party last?

Valentina: Spa birthday parties are a specialty at Aquamedica Spa. I must say, group spa parties are very popular at our spa. Thank you for your interest in planning your daughter’s birthday party here.

Because we have such a large facility, we regularly cater to group spa parties with as many as 50 people! Your daughter and her friends will all be greeted with plush spa robes and cozy spa slippers. Everyone will lounge together in our tranquil Dream Room where you can cater in food, refreshments and munchies for all of her guests. Depending on the size of your party, there may be times when some girls are in treatment rooms and some girls are relaxing together in the Dream Room. This is also a where your daughter can open presents or enjoy birthday cake with her guests.

As far as how long the party will be, that is entirely up to you. We are happy to customize any spa party to fit your needs. Most last a few hours, for the simple reasons that guests enjoy lounging in the dream room and typically each person has at least 2-3 services.

Many of our services, like massages or facials, can be offered for the full 1 hour, or in an express ½ version. Using a combination of 1 hour and ½ services can better help you plan a party for a specified period of time.

Most teen spa parties consist of massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. Those tend to be the most popular service.

The easiest thing to do is to call myself, or my son, Anatoliy, the spa manager. We’ve planned countless spa parties and we would be more than happy to help you do the same.

You can read more about our teen spa parties online.

I hope I have answered some of the questions you have about birthday spa parties at Aquamedica. I look forward to hearing from you again soon!



Visit us online: www.aquamedicaspa.com

Follow Valentina’s blog: www.dayspaexpert.com

Sunday, July 5, 2009

CAN WAXING CAUSE INGROWN HAIRS?


Question: Hi Valentina, I often get ingrown hairs after shaving. I was thinking of waxing instead. Does waxing also cause ingrown hairs?

Valentina: No, waxing does not cause ingrown hairs, waxing actually prevents ingrown hairs. When you shave, you cut the hair at the skin's surface, leaving it with a flat top. New skin cells can grow over the left over hair before it has a chance to grow over the surface again. When this happens, often times the flat top cannot poke through your skin cells, and the hair gets trapped under the skin.

When you wax, you are removing the entire hair from the root. A new, fresh hair grows back with a pointed tip that can easily break through the skin's surface, reducing the chance for ingrown hairs.

Whether you wax or shave, it's good practice to exfoliate your legs a 2-3 times a week to encourage the turnover of dead skin cells. This will help those who shave reduce ingrown hairs and keep skin smooth and soft.

You don't have to buy anything expensive. A great homemade exfoliator can consist of sea salt mixed with some avocado oil or jojoba oil. You can even add a drop or two of your favorite scented essential oil to your personalized product! Not only does this work great to slough away dead skin cells, but it leaves your skin incredibly hydrated and radiant! It's one of my favorite recipes.

About Valentina Chistova

Valentina Chistova is a world-renowned aesthetician and beauty expert whose experience encompasses all facets of skin care and body treatments. Internationally
trained, educated and certified, Valentina has devoted more than twenty years to her profession. Throughout her successful career she has provided services to many celebrities, including Mrs. Globe 2001, famous socialite and entrepreneur Ivana Trump, well-known KTU radio personality Michelle Vassage and Olympic figure skating champion Galit Chait Prior to opening AQUAMEDICA in Long Branch NJ, Valentina also consulted with leading dermatologists, providing skin care regimes for their patients.
Valentina is a member of the National Cosmetology Association and a CIDESCO candidate (Comite International Desthetique et de Cosmetologie Desthetique), which is the highest degree of beauty therapy certification available in the United States and worldwide. Most recently, Valentina completed a rigorous training program with the Spanish organization Wontersaf, one of the world's leading centers for trichology, capillary diagnostics and scalp and hair treatment to combat hair loss and other hair dysfunctions. Valentina also holds a Registered Nursing Degree from Kharkov State University and Cosmetology degrees from the Kharkov Medical Institute in the Ukraine and the Capri Institute of Cosmetology in New Jersey.
Follow Valentina's blog at www.dayspaexpert.com

See for Yourself: Don't take our word for it, take a virtual tour of Aquamedica online and see why we are the #1 spa destination in NJ.

Sign up for our email alerts and be the first to know about huge savings on your favorite spa services!

Our Spa covers the following New Jersey Counties and Cities:

Central and South NJ Monmouth County Middlesex County Ocean Shrewsbury Asbury Park Deal Fair Haven Freehold Little Silver Brielle Colts Neck Elberon Fair Haven Highlands Holmdel Keyport Lincroft Long Branch Locust Manalapan Marlboro Manasquan Matawan Middletown Monmouth Beach Red Bank Rumson Sea Bright Sea Girt Belmar Sea Girt Spring Lake Tinton Falls Union Beach Tinton Falls Wall Old Bridge Eatontown

VALENTINA TALKS ABOUT BASIC HAND AND FOOT CARE TIPS.


Question: What are some basic hand and foot care tips you would recommend?

Answer: If the eyes are the window to the soul, then the hands are the keepers of time. Hands are generally prone to age much faster than other parts of the body. They are also the first to express signs of everyday wear and tear, in part, because of the relentless exposure to soaps, detergents,, cold, heat, wind and water. In order to minimize, these harsh effects, it’s crucial to keep replenishing the skin’s surface with moisture and nutrients, both on the inside and outside.. Because we rely so heavily on the use of our palms, fingers and nails during the course of the day, the optimal time for a hand treat is at night.

While it is true, that our feet are not as subjected to the elements the same way that our hands are, since shoes and socks protect them most of the time, feet are subjected to different kinds of abuse; hard pavements, high heels, excessive body weight and poor circulation. Although a few treatments can rival the effects of foot shiatsu, a warm soak in mineral-rich salts will certainly help to dissolve the aches and restore the senses.


* Wear rubber gloves when washing the dishes or when handling harsh chemicals
* To avoid rashes, use gloves lined with natural fibers as opposed to those with synthetic liners.
* Choose mild ingredients (such as milk or cream) for you hand cleaners.
* Use gloves when you peel citrus fruit.
* Before you go out in the cold, moisturize and put gloves on immediately afterwards for an instant nourishing treatment.
* Clean you rings frequently by soaking them in a solution of white vinegar and distilled water.
* Use a hand mask once a week.
* For a deep moisturizing, apply a rich moisturizer, wrap hands in plastic wrap and leave on for 30 minutes; or put cotton gloves on over moisturizer before going to bed.
* Soak feet for 20 minutes in a warm footbath before exfoliating. Add a couple of drops of peppermint essential oil for stimulation.
* Wear cotton sock that keep feet nice and fresh as opposed to nylon which traps heat and moisture.
* Take long walks barefoot on a sandy beach. Sand is a natural exfoliator and its friction is ideal massage.
* Avoid shoes that are too tight.


See for Yourself: Don’t take our word for it, take a virtual tour of Aquamedica online and see why we are the #1 spa destination in NJ.


Sign up for our email alerts and be the first to know about huge savings on your favorite spa services!

About Valentina Chistova

Valentina Chistova is a world-renowned aesthetician and beauty expert whose experience encompasses all facets of skin care and body treatments. Internationally trained, educated and certified, Valentina has devoted more than twenty years to her profession. Throughout her successful career she has provided services to many celebrities, including Mrs. Globe 2001, famous socialite and entrepreneur Ivana Trump, well-known KTU radio personality Michelle Vassage and Olympic figure skating champion Galit Chait Prior to opening AQUAMEDICA in Long Branch NJ, Valentina also consulted with leading dermatologists, providing skin care regimes for their patients.

Valentina is a member of the National Cosmetology Association and a CIDESCO candidate (Comite International Desthetique et de Cosmetologie Desthetique), which is the highest degree of beauty therapy certification available in the United States and worldwide. Most recently, Valentina completed a rigorous training program with the Spanish organization Wontersaf, one of the world's leading centers for trichology, capillary diagnostics and scalp and hair treatment to combat hair loss and other hair dysfunctions. Valentina also holds a Registered Nursing Degree from Kharkov State University and Cosmetology degrees from the Kharkov Medical Institute in the Ukraine and the Capri Institute of Cosmetology in New Jersey.

Our Spa covers the following New Jersey Counties and Cities:


Central and South NJ Monmouth County Middlesex County Ocean Shrewsbury Asbury Park Deal Fair Haven Freehold Little Silver Brielle Colts Neck Elberon Fair Haven Highlands Holmdel Keyport Lincroft Long Branch Locust Manalapan Marlboro Manasquan Matawan Middletown Monmouth Beach Red Bank Rumson Sea Bright Sea Girt Belmar Sea Girt Spring Lake Tinton Falls Union Beach Tinton Falls Wall Old Bridge Eatontown

Saturday, July 4, 2009

HOW TO PLAN YOUR PERFECT SPA PARTY AT AQUAMEDICA SPA IN NJ



Whether you are planning a girls night out or professional group outing, a Spa Party at Aquamedica Spa in Long Branch NJ is perfect way to share good times with friends, family or co-workers.

Planning a spa party can seem daunting, but if done correctly, spa parties can be lots of fun from the planning phases to the relaxing massages and facials.

Aquamedica Spa in Pier Village is most famous for their spa parties. Professionally planned and expertly executed, Aquamedica caters groups ranging in size from a few to up to 50 guests.

Here is what you need to know when planning your spa party:

Timing: Spa parties can typically last a few hours. Depending on the size of your party, there may be times when some people are in treatment rooms and others are spending time in Aquamedica’s Dream Room. Be sure to ask for help arranging the catering of light snacks and beverages so that guests lounging in the Dream Room can munch and mingle.

Attire: Aquamedica will supply all guests with plush robes and comfy slippers. We also have full service, private changing quarters for men and women where your personal items can be securely stored. You can also use our showers after your party if you plan on spending more time walking around Pier Village.

Budget: Aquamedica Spa has special prices for groups. Be sure to inquire about special discounts that your group will qualify for. Other ways to extend your budget is to reserve lower priced services like a ½ hour massage, ½ hour facial, manicures and pedicures.

Booking: We will help you plan and book your spa party so that you can sit back and just relax on the day of your party. We have many years experience planning and coordinating big parties, so leave the stress to us and enjoy your experience here. We recommend you book your party at least 4 weeks in advance so that we can properly accommodate everyone in your group.

Questions: You may have many questions before you begin booking, so don’t hesitate to ask us. We are here to help you. You can call 732-222-8611, ask for Valentina or Anatoliy, or email us at info@aquamedicaspa.com

See for Yourself: Don’t take our word for it, take a virtual tour of Aquamedica online and see why we are the #1 spa destination in NJ. http://www.aquamedicaspa.com/video11.aspx

Sign up for our email alerts and be the first to know about huge savings on your favorite spa services! http://www.aquamedicaspa.com/signup_form.shtml

Friday, July 3, 2009

NJ SKIN CARE EXPERT EXPAINS THE TRUTH BEHIND WHAT YOU 'C' IN THE MIRROW


Question: Hi Valentina, I am a 45 year old woman with sun damaged skin. I have heard that using Vitamin C can help reduce wrinkles. Is this true?



Valentina: I’m so glad you brought up this subject. Vitamin C is one of the most widely used and promoted skin care ingredients. The variety and amount of Vitamin C skin care products on the market today has exploded, making the situation somewhat complicated.

On one hand, topical vitamin C is scientifically validated for wrinkle reduction and skin rejuvenation. However, that being said, not all C’s are created equal.

Topical Vitamin C helps the skin in two ways. First, it helps your skin produce collagen, a key factor in keeping the skin firm and plump. Second, vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help fight free radicals which damage the skin causing fine lines and wrinkles.


Products that claim to contain Vitamin C may be insufficient for many reasons. First, Vitamin C can become oxidized in the presence of air if not properly stored. When the C becomes oxidized, not only can it not boost collagen production, but it can actually CAUSE free radical damage from the corrupted C. Second, only high concentrations of fat soluble C can deliver enough vitamin C to the cells to be effective. Most over the counter products either contain oxidized forms of C or do not contain high enough levels, rendering the product useless.


In the right form and dosage, Vitamin C can be highly effective in improving your skin’s texture, reducing fine lines and preventing further free radical damage.


I recommend and use Skin Ceuticals Serum C10. This serum combines ferulic acid with 10% pure vitamin C to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, neutralizes free radicals, defends against environmental damage, and stimulates collagen synthesis. This is one of the most well known and effective Vitamin C products in the skin care industry. You can purchase this product from our store online by visiting by clicking on http://www.store-aquamedicaspa.com/detail.aspx?ID=58


Remember, before you invest your money in a Vitamin C product, check with a skin care professional to see if the product is even capable of delivering on its promise. Most over the counter Vitamin C products are not manufactured to stabilize the Vitamin C (prevent the C from oxidizing) or they do not contain high enough levels.


I hope this answers your question, it was a great one!


About Valentina Chistova


Valentina Chistova is a world-renowned aesthetician and beauty expert whose experience encompasses all facets of skin care and body treatments. Internationally trained, educated and certified, Valentina has devoted more than twenty years to her profession. Throughout her successful career she has provided services to many celebrities, including Mrs. Globe 2001, famous socialite and entrepreneur Ivana Trump, well-known KTU radio personality Michelle Vassage and Olympic figure skating champion Galit Chait Prior to opening AQUAMEDICA in Long Branch NJ, Valentina also consulted with leading dermatologists, providing skin care regimes for their patients.

Valentina is a member of the National Cosmetology Association and a CIDESCO candidate (Comite International Desthetique et de Cosmetologie Desthetique), which is the highest degree of beauty therapy certification available in the United States and worldwide. Most recently, Valentina completed a rigorous training program with the Spanish organization Wontersaf, one of the world's leading centers for trichology, capillary diagnostics and scalp and hair treatment to combat hair loss and other hair dysfunctions. Valentina also holds a Registered Nursing Degree from Kharkov State University and Cosmetology degrees from the Kharkov Medical Institute in the Ukraine and the Capri Institute of Cosmetology in New Jersey.

Read more about Valentina at http://www.aquamedicaspa.com/who_we_are.shtml