Tranquil Tidbits

Stacia's Blog-3/15/10

Stacia — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 23:41:00 GMT

Hi;

Well apparently Mother Nature has decided to take a leave of absence while leaving the water running. This rain is beyond ridiculous. Have you had enough yet? While logging on, I was not aware that my last Blog entry from February did not save here, that is not good. So, I will just have to update you on all my fun face issues. I just had my 8th fantastic facial with Leah last Thursday evening. It was heavenly as usual. But I have had some issues, which have been frustrating not only for me but I am sure for Leah as well. Since first walking into Tranquility, I had some serious acne issues. But, I know that since having the monthly facials, and continuously using the Dermalogica skin care routine, my skin has improved in so many ways. The acne itself has become minimal as far as size and duration of time showing on my face. It's not that I don't still have acne, it's that it appears less often, appears smaller, and leaves my face faster. The other wonderful thing, is that the beginnings of fine lines and wrinkles around my eyes, mouth, and forehead have disappeared. And the texture of my skin has become almost like baby skin, you know how baby's skin is soft, fresh-feeling, and plump? That is exactly the way my skin feels, aside from the hyperpigmentation, which is THE big issue right now. Apparently this is what is left behind after the acne disappears. It is red, raw-looking, dry patches of sensitive skin. It is awful, and nothing Leah or I have done is making it disappear any faster than it wants to. It is a long road, and one that I am trying to be patient for, but it is frustrating. I also recently discovered that one possibility for my severe acne issues is that I had been on birth control pills for about 17 years to regulate my menstrual cycle, and having recently come off them about a year and half ago, the hormones in my body are out of whack and they say BCP's help keep acne at bay. So, this might have contributed to the acne taking over. Also, the stress of trying to get pregnant for over a year and half with no luck so far...*fingers crossed*...doesn't help my face either I'm sure.

I have one more facial in April, two days before my 35th birthday...yeaaaa! I am sad to be turning 35...lol...but I will always be a Tranquility Spa girl! I will keep up with my monthly facials because this is something I enjoy, and look forward to. I really love all the Dermalogica products and will continue to use these as well, they are pricy, but well worth it! I am so glad I found the Spa and Leah, she is wonderful. I will write again soon, and hope this rains stops soon!

Take care;

Stacia

Stacia's Blog-1/14/10

Stacia — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 02:05:09 GMT

Happy New Year!

I am so excited, I finally have a new laptop...a MacBook! Yea...I just picked it up from the Apple Store and love everything about it. All my iTunes and Photos are here, and the best thing is that I am able to update my Blog more often.

My last facial was a few weeks ago, and to date...was the best one ever! It was an incredibly frigid night. You needed to bundle up every inch of your body for fear of frostbite. I was also just getting over the flu, which wrecked havoc not only on my body, but my face and skin as well. I think with all the tissues, and constant washing of my hands and face, made my poor skin crave some Tranquility! So, I was definitely looking forward to a lovely evening at the spa, and I was not disappointed. Now, usually when I have my facial, I lay on top of the sheet and furry blanket, but that night, Leah said I should get under the blanket, that there was a special treat under there...well, I certainly didn't see enough room for Vin Diesel but thought, well okay. Let me tell you...it was heavenly! There was a heated blanket under the sheet, and it was DIVINE! I got warmed up right away, started to relax, and a few times even caught myself falling asleep. Then Leah worked her magic on my much-needed and very deprived skin. I swear, whenever Leah does my facials, my skin feels like it did when I was little...of course, it comes close when I do this at home as well, but never as wonderful. I think it is having someone else do all the work while you lay there and relax, plus the massaging of your skin that makes it feel so plump.

I am noticing that with this cold, harsh, winter weather, that my face does not enjoy this "lovely" New England wind. It has been so dry and chapped looking. So, I have been trying to step it up a bit by washing off my makeup as soon as I come home from work, and moisturizing, then when I go to bed, I add a little of the Extreme-C powder to my Moisturizer, slather it on and let it work it's magic overnight. Oh, I forgot to tell you that before. Leah added another little bit of magic to my arsenal of Dermalogica products. She gave me a few samples of these little vials of powder called Extreme-C that you mix a pea-size amount of to your moisturizer and it helps heal and clear up the red hyper pigmentation that is the remainders of my past acne. I think it has started to do the trick too, because I am noticing that they are starting to appear not so bright red, which is great.

I am starting to get worried that my participation in this amazing Free & Clear Program will soon be coming to an end, and my skin is not clearing up as fast as I would like. Of course I know that since it didn't start overnight, that it will take time. But, since I have enjoyed my time with Leah and Tranquility, I have decided that when my participation ends, my time there will not. So, I will officially be transformed into a permanent repeat customer. I love it there and look forward to each and every visit, knowing that when I leave, I will feel like a Princess. Okay, maybe not a Princess, but pampered, and relaxed anyway.

This week I have noticed that I have two pimples that need tending too, so I will call Leah and see if I can come in and have them zapped! I swear, that machine is amazing. As soon as you feel like you might be getting a pimple, get it zapped, and majority of the time, it never pops up, or if it does, it is way smaller and disappears faster than if you left it alone. The technical term is: High-Frequency Treatment for you folks that don't want to call up and ask to be "zapped"...lol.

Also, if you haven't already heard, and your on Facebook, be sure to check out Linda and Leah's interview on Watertown TV, by going to the Tranquility Day Spa's Facebook site, and clicking on their Videos and watching their interview, they did awesome! You go girls!

Well, until my next facial, or skin eruption...I will talk to you later...stay warm!

~Stacia

Now Offering Sunday and Monday Appointments

Linda — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 20:58:00 GMT

We are now taking appointments for Sunday and Monday. Appointments must be made in advance and not all services are available right now. Once we see what the demand is, we can expand services, but right now we are taking massage appointments only.

Request appointment

Stacia-12/2/09

Stacia — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:31:00 GMT

Hi;

I apologize for not writing in some time, honestly I didn't realize it had been so long already. Goodness how times flies, I can't believe it is already December! Where has the year gone? The threat of snow this Saturday is not good, it's much to soon for all that yuckiness. Well, I am home from work for my second day, after not starting to feel well on Monday. I went to the Urgent Care Center here in Waltham last night, and was told that I have an upper respiratory infection, possibly H1N1 flu. Okay, not for nothing, but what is this "possible" stuff? Either it is, or it isn't, who is the MD here? The doctor looked in my ears, in my mouth for I swear half a second, listened to my breathing, and then sent me for a chest x-ray, which came back fine. Meanwhile, my temp was 100.8, I can't take deep breathes because it's starts me on a coughing fit, and every part of my body is killing me. Now, mind you, my poor little 2-month old nephew was diagnosed with H1N1 flu 2 weeks ago...by a blood test. Now, with a compromised immune system, which I have, you think they would have done the same thing? I tell you what I think, I think they are just diagnosing anyone with "flu-like" symptoms as having H1N1. Well, that's not helpful, especially if you just have a Virus infection, seasonal flu, or actual H1N1. It's craziness.

So, here I am feeling like a Mac Truck has run me over, but really thinking how sad this is going to be when the Free and Clear Program ends soon. I really look forward to my visits with Leah, she really is wonderful. I actually had an appointment tomorrow night, that I just called and cancelled... As for my face, I have positives and negatives. The positives are that my skin has never felt so soft and nice. The majority of all the pimples themselves have gone away, and when I get one, they don't seem as big, or last as long, because I instantly dab on the Overnight Clearing Gel which speeds up the process of clearing it up. The negatives are that there is still a lot of red marks from where there were pimples, as well as little dry patches, which I have been applying the C-12 lotion, and have noticed that slowly they are fading, of course just not as fast as i would like...lol. I am inpatient, I know, and this face is not going to heal and clear up overnight, although, that would be wonderful wouldn't it?

When I had my last facial a few weeks ago, Leah had suggested I bring in some Mineral Makeup and she would do a little mini-makeover with it. Well, to be honest, in some places it looked okay, but in others, the self-critical me noticed that I could still see the actual bumps and red marks. It was wonderful of Leah to do this, and I really appreciated it. I think it is just going to take time to break out of my "routine" of using as much makeup as I do, and finding makeup that is good for my skin, gives me the coverage I need, and allows my skin to breathe better than with all the crap I have to put on now. It's like fighting an uphill battle, Leah is doing all she can, but I still can't allow myself to go out in public without my "armour" on. Maybe people wouldn't notice as much as I think they would, or people would stare at my face, and that is what scares me, your face is always the first thing people notice and they make their judgements about you almost immediately, not everyone I know, but most.

This experience has been wonderful though, and having the opportunity to meet Leah, and everyone at Tranquilty has made me so happy. I feel like I have a little sanctuary I can retreat to, and be pampered, and made to feel good, and every girl deserves that!

Till next time, take care;
~Stacia

Stacia's Blog-10/28/09

Stacia — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 01:43:00 GMT

Hi;

I apologize for not written in over a month. My computer here at home has been on the fritz. I had my fifth facial last week with Leah. Of course, my skin felt lovely that evening and especially the next day. Unfortunately, Aunt Flo is visiting and doing a number on my face! Ggrrr...the things we women must deal with. Along the jawline and smack dab in the middle of my chin, it looks like a small volcano has risen and is awaiting it's time to erupt. Good grief! I am continually applying all the necessary steps of my Dermalogica routine, and the majority of my issues have been getting better. But there are times when I look at myself in the mirror and think, "when am I going to see nothing but clear skin"? I wish I knew, and I am trying to be patient, but with winter approaching sooner than I hope, the dry patches are going to come back, and I feel like all hell's going to break loose on my face. *Rolling my eyes*...I know, that just made me sound like a drama queen, we can't have that...lol.

I just came back on Sunday from a three-day trip to NY with Christopher. We had so much fun, even with all the rain on Saturday, it was still very romantical. Central Park was beautiful, so many places to shop, and people watch. I brought all my Dermalogica products with me, and felt that I needed a little extra relief from the above-mentioned eruptions, so I dabbed on a little of the Overnight Clearing Gel, which is usually used only at night, before I put on my makeup. I think it helped to relieve some of the irritation and soreness.

Leah has suggested that I try to start wearing less of the regular makeup I wear (Cover Girl Concealer, Cover Girl pressed powder, etc.) and start using Mineral Makeup and see what kind of difference it makes to my skin. Of course, last year I went to Bare Escentuals and spent a small fortune on a starter kit, and now cannot for the life of me find it all. I think it might have gotten lost when I moved to Waltham. So, I will either have to suck it up and go back and buy more, or see if I can find the right colors at CVS or Rite Aid. That is the hard part, trying to figure out for yourself what colors you are. I always end up messing it up by either going too light or too dark. I really wish I didn't have to wear the stuff at all...another Ggrr moment! Well, keep your fingers crossed for me. I go back in one week for a High-Frequency Treatment to be zapped. Then, in another two weeks another facial. I am now realizing that my 9 month program will be coming to an end soon...that makes me sad. Hopefully by then, my face will have gotten under control and I will see the difference and be able to wear less makeup, that would be wonderful. I will write again soon, until then, take care, and go play in the pretty leaves!

~Stacia

Stacia'a Blog-9/20/09

Stacia — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 15:25:00 GMT

Happy Sunday!

The leaves are changing color, there is a crisp, fall breeze blowing, and I definately need a sweater today. I love Fall weather...time to break out all the comfy sweaters, and the cute boots! I also love this weather because my skin tends to react better during this time of year. It's not as hot and muggy, so I think my face doesn't break out as much.

I went for my third facial on Thursday evening with Leah. And I am so excited to say that my face is starting to get better...*knocking on wood*...lol. When I took my makeup off on Tuesday night, I noticed that the acne itself has diminished, and really the only thing left on my face were a bunch of red marks...which Leah called "hyperpigmentation". She used a little stronger solution on my face during my facial to help speed up the process of the red marks disappearing. There are a couple of spots of dryness, but honestly, that Barrier Repair Solution is AMAZING! I rub a little onto each of the dry spots, and they are getting better everyday. Leah also said that my pores are looking good, hardly any clogging at all...YEAAA! I cannot wait to see my face at the end of this 9 month program. It would be incredible to be able to just put on a little tinted moisturizer, blush, mascara and lip gloss and go outside without fear of people seeing a red, acne-stricken face. I would be so happy.

While pondering things to write about here, I am always wondering if you want to read just about my facials and how my skin is looking, but also about things going on in my life, that might make my skin react differently (such as stress, happiness, being sick, etc.). I wonder this because when I was sick these past two weeks, my skin has gotten a little drier. Maybe because of having to constantly use tissues, and not being as hydrated. So, of course I used the Barrier Repair Solution around my nose and cheeks where it was getting dry, raw patches... and as suspected, they have gotten much better. I also notice that the last month or so, I have been stressed because my sister is pregnant, considered high risk, and has been on bed rest for 3 months now. Every time I hear my house phone or cell phone ring, I get panic-stricken not knowing if she is going to go into labor and will I get there fast enough. So, I think when that happens, my face shows this stress with the dark circles under my eyes from not enough sleep, as well as break outs along my T-Zone. That's when I make sure to tell Leah and she does a little High-Frequency zap session, and I rub a little Overnight Clearing Gel on those areas, which always helps.

I just celebrated my 8-year Anniversary on 9/15 with my fiance' Christopher. I can't believe it's been so long...and yet it seems like we've been together forever. My hope is that we can get married in 2011....but we are trying to look for a house first, we'll see what happens. E verywhere I look, it seems like people are getting married, buying houses, and having babies. It makes me a bit envious at times, that maybe I am not doing the same, but I think everyone is different and we all don't have to follow a set timeline in life. Well, that's what I tell myself anyway...lol.

I am off to do the laundry and finish reading another scary horror book. Hope everyone has a great week, and I wlll write again soon.

Take care;
Stacia

Stacia's Blog-8/31/09

Stacia — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 22:42:00 GMT

Hi!

Well, so much to let you know about since my last blog. I had my second facial last Thursday evening with Leah. I was not feeling good, had called out sick from work, and didn't know how I would feel that night. But, honestly, I am so glad I didn't cancel, because I really needed that relaxation time. My face has really been showing the signs of all the stress I have been feeling lately. It really is true that the face is the first place that stress shows up. I started breaking out along the sides of my chin, around my nose and here and there along my jaw and hairline. I have been religious with my routine day and night, and do not really understand why this is still happening. To be honest, it's really frustrating...ggrrr!

As the facial started, I felt a bit calmer and relaxed, and was really looking forward to this "me" time. Leah really is wonderful, I don't know if she is told enough, but she really is. After all the cleansing, and calming, the stream machine came on, and the pores were opened. Next, came extraction time...this is the only part of the facial I do not enjoy...it is painful on some parts of my face. But I know it's for the best for my skin. I just hope that eventually, that will be an unnecessary part of my future facials. When everything had been done, and my face was lightly lotioned, and massaged...I was a bit shocked when I looked in the mirror...my face was so red, and raw-looking. I did not want to even come out of the room, for fear that someone would see me in the waiting room. Of course, to my dismay, there was. I was horrified, and so embarrassed, hopefully they didn't get a good look at me...yikes! I made my next appointment for my third facial, as well as a manicure with Sabrina for the following week. Leah decided that I needed to come in next week for a High-Frequency Treatment (that's where the pimples get zapped with electricity), as well as starting to use a new Cleanser...Dermal Day Cleanser (this feels really minty-like, refreshing, eye-opening...it has menthol in it). This is to be used everyday except for twice when I will use the original cleanser (Medibac's Clearing Skin Cleanse). Also, for the red, raw-looking, dry patches, Leah has added Barrier Repair Lotion. We discovered that what I was doing was not helping. At night when I was done cleansing, I was putting the Overnight Clearing Gel on and it was drying the spots out and making them worse, so thankfully that has now started to get better.

The part that is hard for me is having to be patient and wait for my skin to be better. It has only been two months, I know, but I had hoped that it would get better. Whenever a new breakout flares up, it is so frustrating and aggravating. It feels like just when it seems to be getting better, another one pops up somewhere else. Hopefully, over time this will stop happening, and this will all be worthwhile. I know, I know...everything takes time...lol. And I will honestly tell you, my skin itself has NEVER felt better...it is so soft, and plump, and nice to touch...except for the breakout spots of course. But, it is all a process, and I am in it for the long haul, and I trust Leah.

I also had my Manicure with Sabrina, it was lovely! I now have healthy, pretty nails painted with OPI's-"Privacy, Please". This is a really light shade of barely pink. It looks awesome! I think I will have to go have another Pedicure now soon as well...I am definitely enjoying life's little luxuries for a change! And I cannot say enough about Tranquility Spa...it really is a little piece of heaven on earth. And we are all worth it aren't we? Well, I have my High-Frequency Treatment on Wednesday, so keep your fingers crossed that it will zap some pimples away. I'll write again soon...have a wonderful week!

~Stacia

Stacia's Blog-8/14/09

Stacia — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 01:49:00 GMT

Happy Friday!

Whew! It has been some crazy weather, super-hot one day, rainy another, and then muggy and humid the next! Yuck! This kind of weather does not do my skin any favors. Since my last blog, I have kept up the Dermalogica routine every day and every night The Tuesday following my facial, I had to call Leah and get a few spots zapped on my face, as a couple of pimples appeared. Leah was fabulous as usual, she zapped my whole face. The next day I woke up and the spots that had started to raise into full-fledged pimples, had gone down. The red marks were still there, but the pimple itself went down! I was so psyched!

The following Wednesday, I had an appointment with Diane for a Pedicure...another first for me. It was so relaxing, refreshing, and luxurious. I tell you, these girls know how to take care of you at Tranquility. My feet were soaked, scrubbed, buffed, massaged and lotioned. Then I had brought a cute pink color I got at Sally Beauty Supply to try out. My toes looked great! Flip-flops here I come! It has been over a week, and my toes still look awesome! I think I am definitely turning into a Spa girl. Next on my list...a manicure and maybe even a massage...that would be heavenly!

I have gone into my Mom's pool for the first time this summer. Granted, I did not get my face wet, but it is a start. I have noticed that with this muggy, humid weather, my face is getting little bumps and the beginnings of small pimples. I think my skin has been a bit more oily, and I wonder if this is contributing to the problem? I will have to ask Leah at my next appointment. Oh, before I forget, I also started to get a few little pimples on my chest, and shoulders, possibly from my bra rubbing against my skin when working out at the gym. So, when I got home and took a shower, I dabbed a bit of the Overnight Clearing Gel on them, and the next night I noticed they had gone down. This stuff is awesome! Also, in my first little Dermalogica kit, there was a small bottle of Concealing Spot Treatment. I tried to use it as a concealer on some spots, but found that it was very liquidy, and didn't do much to conceal...so back to the Cover Girl Liquid Concealer.

My next facial is set for August 22nd, and I am really excited. Leah does such a great job, and it is such a relaxing atmosphere, that I am counting down the days. I brag so much about Leah and the Spa, that my co-worker is going to have a facial soon as well. She will love it. Well, I am off to do my nighttime routine...tonight, I get to add the soothing Sebum Clearing Masque. I love the way my skin feels when this is rinsed off, so soft and CLEAN! This weekend is going to be a heatwave, and I am going to relax, take a dip in the pool, and finish reading another great thriller. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend, be safe, remember to wash your makeup off every night (thanks Linda...lol), and I will write again after my next facial.

Take care;
Stacia

Stacia's Blog-7/29/09

Stacia — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 23:21:00 GMT

Hi!

It has been exactly one week since my first facial, and as Leah said, my face did break out afterwards. I didn't think it would, but it did. New acne popped up between my eyebrows, under my nose, and around the sides of my chin. I will call Leah to come into the spa and have them zapped! Hopefully that will help them disappear, as the Dermalogica routine has helped significantly so far. I love the way my face feels, after cleansing, and putting on the lotion. And the Sebum Clearing Masque feels tingly and refreshing. That is definately a treat I look forward to twice a week. I have also dabbed the Overnight Clearing Gel on a few spots that started to breakout along my chest, and by the next morning, you could hardly see them, it was awesome! I have also decided to splurge on myself, and see if Diane can fit me in for a Pedicure, also something I have never had, but am looking forward to. I will write again next week and fill you in on any changes or improvements. Have a great rest of the week and try and stay cool in this humid weather.

~Stacia

Stacia's Blog

Stacia — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:50:00 GMT

Good Morning!

My name is Stacia Russell, I live in Waltham and am 34 years old. I am so excited that I have been chosen to participate in the "Free & Clear" program at the Tranquility Day Spa. I have suffered from acne since the age of 12. My mother tried purchasing lots of different products to help me clear, conceal, and cover the breakouts, but nothing seemed to work. When I reached my teens, and started reading all the "Teen" magazines, I learned lots of different tips and tricks to use on my face, and again, nothing seemed to work. I have spent the majority of my life afraid of getting my face wet in the pool, swimming in the ocean, or being caught in the rain, for fear of someone seeing my face without makeup. I think I should have significant stock build up in CoverGirl makeup for all the money I have spent on concealer alone! It takes me about 40 minutes every morning to put my makeup on. A habit my now fiance' thinks is ridiculous. But as he does not suffer from acne, he doesn't completely understand. I am afraid to hug people sometimes as well, because I know I will get makeup on their shoulder, as well as on the collars of my own shirts. It is so frustrating, exhausting, and embarrassing. Only those of you that suffer from acne will understand. Which brings me here...to this "Free & Clear" program. I read the advertisement about two months ago in the "Waltham Shopper" newspaper, and thought to myself, give it a try, send in an application, what can it hurt? Leah gave me a call a few weeks ago to come in for a consultation and interview. I was nervous, thinking that I was going to have to take my makeup off for a complete stranger, and take photos...Yikes! But as soon as I walked into the Spa, Leah was so nice and friendly. She looked at my skin under the esthetician's light, WITH MY MAKEUP ON...lol. I filled out a questionnaire, had a Dermalogica Face Mapping profile done, given some Dermalogica samples to try for the next two weeks, and Leah told me she would be calling in the next few days to let me know whether or not I was chosen. I was so excited, I couldn't wait to go home and try the products out.

I started the products on a Monday night, by Wednesday morning I could already see and feel the difference. I was shocked! My skin felt so soft, and smooth. Some of the red marks had started fading, and the dry patches of skin were soft! I couldn't believe it. I immediately went into the living room to show my fiance' (who hardly ever sees me without makeup) and show him. He felt it, and agreed it was much softer, and looked "calmed down". I then proceeded to put my usual makeup on and went to work. It was so hard not to touch my face all day long, as it didn't feel tight, dry, or oily. I told one of my co-workers about the products and she agreed that my face did look better. I immediately sent Leah an email to let her know what was happening, and how excited I was. She emailed me back, and told me the best news ever...I was chosen to participate! Whoo-hoo! I was jumping up and down in my seat, my co-workers were giggling at me, but I didn't care, I was so hopeful that FINALLY, FINALLY I just might get rid of this acne once and for all!

I went last night for my first facial...it was amazing! Soft lighting, tranquil music playing in the background, super comfy bed, and I immediately started to relax. Leah told me every step of the way what she was applying and doing and how the product/tool she was using would work on my skin. She took some photos when all the makeup was off, and proceeded with the facial. I have never had one before, and didn't know what the results would be, but it was so relaxing, and calming. The only uncomfortable part was the extraction, there was lots of pressure, and a little pinching here and there. But it was so worth the effort, because when everything was done, my skin felt wonderful. It was worth every second of the 90 minute facial. Leah then gave me the Dermalogica products, explained them all to me, and I can't wait to come back next month for the next facial.

When I got home, I noticed a little more redness than usual, which is to be expected, but the texture of my skin looks so much better. Before going to bed, I put a little Oil Control Lotion on and that was it. When I woke up this morning, some of the redness has faded, and my skin is still so soft. Before I go out, I will use the Clearing Skin Wash, the Clearing Mattifier, and the Active Moist Moisturizer. Then when that has been absorbed, I will put on my makeup. Before I go to bed, my routine is to use a little of the Pre-Cleanse oil to loosen and lift the makeup off, then use the Clearing Skin Wash, the Overnight Clearing Gel (this is a Spot Treatment), and then the Oil Control Lotion. Three times a week I use the Skin Prep Scrub, as well as twice a week, I use the Sebum Clearing Masque.

Some nights I am so tired, I just want to fall into bed without washing my makeup off, but I am so committed to this routine now, I don't care how tired I am, it is worth it to see the results, to finally see what my face looks like without acne. My goal is to be acne-free for my wedding in 2011. How wonderful it would be to wear makeup to accentuate and enhance, rather than to conceal and camouflage. That would be amazing! Well, enough for now, I will write again next week and keep you up-to-date on how my skin is progressing and any results I see. Have a wonderful weekend!

~Stacia

I Just Had to Say Something

Linda — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 18:15:00 GMT

Today is Saturday.    Our Esthetician is usually booked solid on Saturday's. Her Saturday appointments are usually booked in advance.       Today she had a one hour facial booked. The appointment was confirmed verbally with the client the day before.   Just today alone, I had to turn away three appointments because the Esthetician was booked solid.

The one hour facial appointment was a "no-show".       So now this left our therapist with one hour of empty appointment time.

This is so frustrating.   I understand things happen.... but what is a simple phone call?

I just had to say something.

Thanks

Linda's Going To Jail!

Linda — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 15:57:00 GMT

Please Help Me!!!

I have been arrested and will be put in jail for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Lock-up. Don’t even bother asking what crime I have committed – maybe it’s the many Watertown parking tickets... it’s not really that important. I just have to raise my bail before the Lock-Up and they will go easy on me, but I need your financial assistance to post my bond.

Please lend your support during the 2009 Watertown / Newton Lockup on June 24th at Fit Zy's Pub in Watertown.

Your 100% tax-deductible donation will help MDA continue research into the cause and the possible cure of the 43 neuromuscular diseases they cover. Your support of the MDA Lock-Up will also help MDA provide medical equipment, clinic visits, support groups and a magical week of MDA Summer Camp for the families served by the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Thank you for helping me help MDA.…

to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association

Sincerely,

Linda Souza

P.S. I NEED BAIL MONEY PAID ON OR BEFORE JUNE 24th, SO PLEASE... TAKE A MOMENT NOW TO SEND IN YOUR DONATION. THANK YOU!

CLICK HERE TO PAY ON-LINE.

Introducing the “Free&Clear” Skin Treatment Program for suffers of adult acne

Linda — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 18:57:00 GMT

Tranquility is seeking one adult between the age of 21—38 who suffers from adult acne to participate in our nine-onth “Free&Clear “ skin treatment program, at no cost!

The successful candidate will receive a complete facial skin analysis and a treatment plan that will include free monthly facials for problematic skin and free skin care products for a daily home care regimen.

The candidate must be committed to adhering to the prescribed treatment plan for nine months beginning on July 1, 2009 and be willing to document their progress with photographs. The candidate will also be expected to share their experience with others via a weekly entry on Tranquility’s blog site.

Skin care professionals and dermatologists alike report that post-adolescent acne is on the rise. More than ever before, adults are enduring the challenges of oily and acneic skin conditions. Clinical studies indicate that between 40 and 55 percent of the adult population in the 20-40 age group are diagnosed with a low grade, persistent acne and oily skin.

According to the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology, 54% of women older than age 25 have some facial acne, which is most likely attributed to hormonal fluctuations that trigger excess sebum resulting in acne. Unfortunately, adult cases of acne are often more persistent than teenage acne, which can be particularly frustrating for those who were spared outbreaks as teenagers. Acne arising in adulthood is more likely to be inflammatory, with fewer comedones than teenage acne, and with lesions predominantly located around the mouth, chin and jaw line. Likewise, adults often have sensitized skin, or a combination of skin conditions in addition to their acne, which makes treatment more challenging than treatment of teens who generally have a more resilient, uniform oily skin condition.

Leah Varney, owner and esthetician, is dedicated to providing her clients with the very best skin care. Leah believes that looking good is a product of skin health and has dedicated herself to providing a skin care regimen specifically designed for each client. She receives deep satisfaction from the progress she has seen as a result of her treatment plans for those with problem skin conditions. Leah is excited to offer the “Free&Clear” treatment program to a deserving candidate.

You are a potential candidate if you:

are between the age of 21 - 38
are not currently under the care of a physician for your skin condition (symptoms of adult acne)
struggle with adult acne and have tried different products with little or no success.
are not currently taking any prescription medications for your skin condition.
have never received a facial before, or if you have, it has been more than one year.
are not currently seeking laser, dermabrasion, glycolic or other skin resurfacing treatment
will commit to comply with the treatment requirements for the duration of the program.
have good verbal and written communication skills.
are willing and able to chronicle your experience via weekly blog entries on Tranquility's blog
will agree to photographs of your face showing progress to be posted on Tranquility's website

Timetable: applications are being accepted NOW. Complete and submit on-lineor print the application and mail.

Application submission cut-off is Saturday, June 20th.

The owners of Tranquility Day Spa will carefully review each application and post announce their choice on their website on Monday June 22, 3009.

Our First Skin Bar Event

Linda — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 01:14:00 GMT

On Sunday, January 25th we held our first “skin bar” event at the spa. The purpose of the event was to give clients a chance to interactively learn about their skin and experience Dermalogica products by performing facial treatments on themselves.   Several women participated in this event for which I will subsequently refer to as “the ladies”.

We transformed our mani/pedi area into a “skin bar” with an 8ft table and chairs to accommodate the ladies comfortably. After a tour of the Spa snacks and beverages were enjoyed and introductions were made.     Leah kicked things off by helping the ladies to determine what skin type they had; Dry, Normal-Dry, Normal-Oily, Oily or Acneic. Based on the various skin types Leah prescribed the products that would produce the best result for each participant.

The fun began when the ladies squirted water in one another’s face to prep for the first application of product. Leah explained each step of the mini facial as the prescribed products were used throughout the session.   Starting with a cleansing followed by exfoliation and toning and ending with steamed towels to remove the hydrating masque.     Finally, moisturizer was applied and WAH-LAH – smiling, glowing faces were revealed!   Afterwards, the ladies socialized while Leah conducted a private skin analysis for each person in the esthetics treatment room.

The ladies left feeling great about their skin and each promised to keep up a good cleansing, exfoliation and moisturizing routine. My only regret is that I did not have a camera handy to capture the image of all of the ladies wearing their “masques”!

We plan on having another Skin Bar Event in April. Keep and eye out for day/time. Do you have an idea for a special event? Let us know.

Money Saving Tips

Linda — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 23:02:00 GMT

With recession seemingly at our doors, as gas prices grow and bank money market and CD rates going down, we need to save where we can while making the most out of therapuetic services. Here are a few tips to save money while not skimping on quality service:

Take advantage of our Client Referral program. Refer a client to our spa and receive a 10% discount on your next service.
Pre-Book your hour massage or facial appointment before you leave the spa and receive $5.00 off that appointment. Put $15 aside every week until your next appointment so the service is all or partially paid for.
Purchase a package series. You save 10% on all services. Use them for yourself, or give them as gifts to your family and friends. (Make up your own "gift certificate"!)
Take advantage of the discounted Spa Packages or mix and match three or more services and receive 10% off.
If you are a teacher, you can save 10% if you book your appointment on Wed or Thurs between 3:00pm - 6:00pm.
Book a one hour basic facial with Rachael on Sunday and save $10.
Make sure we have your birth month in our system. In your birth month we will send you a birthday card worth 20% off any one service!
Check our website often for unadvertised specials.

Even if none of these discounts can work for you, you can still save money by being a loyal client. After 5 visits spending $75 or more, you will receive $10 off your next visit.

Don't forget that the only way our American economy to go back to its normal track is to stimulate it by spending. Even though we try to cut expenses, if you can afford additional expenses, don't hesitate to contribute in the circulation of money that most small and bigger business vitally need to help our economy.

* Discount not available on already discounted services. Cannot combine discounts. The program with the greatest discount will apply. Some discounts not available if paying with Spa Finder Gift Certificate.

We need your feedback please!

Linda — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:53:00 GMT

We would like to make plans for social events to hold at the spa. Which events would you be interested in? Some would be free, and others would be at discounted pricing. Let us know what interests you. Thanks, your time is appreciated!

Keeping Hands Beautiful

Linda — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:49:00 GMT

Next to your face, your hands are probably the most visible parts of your body. The earliest signs of aging will show on your hands. The skin on the back of your hands is extremely delicate. Your hands need extra care because they're always doing so much for us and, unfortunately, so often taken for granted.

What You Can Do:

Wear a high SPF sunscreen or sun block on the back of your hands. The sun causes 90% to 95% of the wrinkles, lines, discolorations and more to our bodies and hands.
Wear rubber gloves lined with cotton when your hands are in contact with harsh soaps, detergents, or chemicals. The nails, when exposed to water, swell and then shrink back as they dry. This contributes to brittle nails.
Exfoliate. Use a grainy scrub on backs of hands twice a week to reveal glowing skin. You can use the same exfoliant that you use on your face.
Moisturize, Moisturize! After washing your hands, pat dry and while moist, use a moisturizer on the hands, cuticles, and nails. Keeping the thin skin of our hands moisturized is very important.
Always wear protective gloves when gardening or during heavy housework.
Wear gloves to protect your hands from cold weather.
Only go to reputable spas or nail salons that practice good sanitation to prevent infection.
Keep your cuticles neat. Cuticles function as barriers to bacteria and fungus, but they can often overgrow. Use a wooden cuticle pusher after a shower to keep them in line.
With time, the skin on your hands develops wrinkles, becomes discolored and loses its elasticity. After 40 you begin to see this accelerate each year. But now you can actually remove the damage from age and sun with chemical peel treatments for the hands.

Hands and Feet for September

WE HAVE A WINNER!

Linda — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:38:00 GMT

Congratulations to Tracy Rockwell for winning a $200 Gift Card for having the most points for referring new clients to our Spa!

Tracy's total came to 12 points for the contest period ending August 31st.

We are so very grateful to Tracy and all of the other loyal clients who kindly referred their friends, family and co-workers to our spa.

We want to continue to provide the best treatments, products and customer service so that you feel confident recommending us. As always, we want to hear from you about anything that we can do better to enhance your experience with us.

Your loyalty and respect is most appreciated!

Click here to see the final tally.

Tranquility On Line Store Open

Linda — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:53:00 GMT

You can now purchase Dermalogica skin care products from the comfort of your own home using our new online store!

We offer FREE SHIPPING on purchases of $30.00 or more.

For years, Dermalogica's formulas have pioneered new standards for product performance. Using only the finest ingredients available, all Dermalogica products are non-comedogenic and contain no occlusive mineral oil or lanolin, no irritating artificial colors or fragrance, and no drying S.D. alcohol.

For best results, come in for a complimentary skin consultation -- a zone-by-zone analysis for the most targeted skin care and unsurpassed results!

Click here to go shopping now.

Free Facial Giveway

Linda — Thu, 15 May 2008 11:49:00 GMT

Congratulations to Trudy Morris for winning a free 1/2 hr facial.

Trudy was entered into a drawing for this gift for completing our customer survey. This survey is important to us for quality control to ensure that we fulfill our mission to provide our clients with the very best treatments and products available and meet our goals to deliver immediate and satisfying results in relaxed, elegant and estheic surroundings.