(Fenton, MO) -- In order to put your best face forward, it’s very important to maintain a skincare regimen to keep your skin healthy and happy. But with so many products and services on the market, how do we know what’s best? Christine Hancock, esthetics director for MassageLuXe – a franchised spa chain that offers high-quality, affordable services in a comfortable, relaxing and upscale environment – and an expert in the beauty field for over 40 years, is well equipped to answer this question. She dishes on best practices, beauty trends to look for in 2011 and how to choose a spa service provider.
In November, Hancock aided in the launch of FaceLuXe, a new line of products and services offered at MassageLuXe locations across the country that include a variety of rejuvenating facials and waxing services. Among the products used at FaceLuXe are Kanshi™ (African aromatic spa products) and Repêchage ® (skin care products that contain seaweed and natural botanicals).
- Why is it so important for women to take proper care of their skin?
You only get one chance at it! Skin can be abused so much and it will show for the rest of your life. While most people think the sun is a skin’s worst enemy, in actuality, the most damage comes from a bar of soap. It’s very important to use the right products and develop good skincare habits when you’re young. If you don’t know what’s best, consult an expert.
- What are some beauty trends to embrace in 2011?
What I see happening is beauty bars. The days of spending hours upon end in the spa are over. Today’s woman has more money than time so many spas are offering multiple treatments simultaneously. The goal is to provide as many services as possible in the hour or two a client has to give you. For example, a hand treatment or a mini-facial while having a massage is a popular combination.
We’re also seeing more people extending the spa into their homes, lighting candles, putting on a face mask, using high-end products while soaking in their Jacuzzi tub. This all helps to relax the mind and body and recoup after a long day.
- What are the benefits to regular massages and facials?
De-stressing is most important today. Everyone is spending more hours behind their desks and giving employers more and more time. Pampering oneself is essential for mental health. The competitive edge also comes into play with today’s woman. Older women need to stay in the game when it comes to employment; many of them are competing with much younger women for the same jobs. Overall, we want to look and feel younger and taking care of our skin with regular facials and setting aside time to relax play a huge role in this.
- What can women do at home in between regularly scheduled facials to maintain their skin?
Unless a woman has problem skin, once-a-month facials are recommended. The best thing you can do is follow up at home using products your esthetician recommends after your service. In most spas, your esthetician will walk you through the products she chose for your skin and explain why they were the right mixture. Then you’ll have the opportunity to purchase those products to maintain your beauty regime at home. Also, keep an eye on your skin in the mirror and pay attention to how it feels. If you notice any changes, seek the advice of an expert.
- What should one look for in a location to ensure their spa services provider is licensed?
Every state has a licensing system. An esthetician license is crucial for skincare service providers – it requires more hours than cosmetology. Usually licenses are posted in the break room, manager’s office or esthetician office itself. I would definitely recommend asking to see licenses to make sure you’re receiving quality services from a qualified professional.
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About Christine Hancock
Christine Hancock started her career in the beauty business nearly 40 years ago when she was hired on as a junior stylist for Saks Fifth Avenue in Frontenac, MO. She remained with the company for 12 years and worked her way up to management and finally district management before leaving to pursue business ownership. She opened her first salon in Clayton, MO. in 1984 and ran a successful operation for more than 10 years. In 1994, Hancock returned to the Saks Fifth Avenue Group as Corporate Director. Over the past several years she was Stylist Director as well as General Manager for The Face and The Body, an upscale Day Spa in St. Louis and opened yet another Aveda Life Style Salon in St. Louis. In 1997, the Governor of MO. appointed her to the State Board of Cosmetology being one of her proudest professional accomplishments. In September 2010, she joined forces with MassageLuXe as a Corporate Recruiter and Director of Esthetics.
