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How to Give Yourself the Gift of Great Skin This Winter

How to Give Yourself the Gift of Great Skin This Winter

Happy Holidays! When you’re thinking about gifts to give your loved ones this year, don’t forget about yourself. Health marketplace Sesame Care reported that 49% of Americans feel an increase in stress and anxiety during the holidays. With all the pressure of the holiday season paired with cold winter weather, there’s a good chance your skin is suffering. Now is a better time than ever to pamper yourself.

At Club West Med Spa, we have countless treatments and product offerings to help you do just that! We’ve compiled a list of some of our top treatments to give you glowing, refreshed skin. Read on to see which sounds best for you!

If you are in the Midlothian, VA area and looking to treat yourself this winter, contact us at Club West Med Spa today!

Our Treatments

Facials

We currently offer a wide selection of facials to cleanse and pamper your skin using high-quality products and techniques. Our facials have an incredible amount of benefits. Each facial will include an in-depth skin analysis and customized mixology of ingredient-rich products tailored just for you. Whether your concern is fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, rosacea, acne hyperpigmentation, or all of the above, we can customize a facial to focus on your skin care needs!

We also offer many levels of chemical peels to exfoliate and rejuvenate your face. Read our blog post to learn more!

Body Treatments

Looking for a whole-body approach to treating your skin? Treat yourself to an all-over rejuvenation with our body treatments! Our scrubs hydrate and smooth your skin by removing dead skin from your body. We use scrubs with different ingredients that contain specific benefits like brightening and clarifying, reducing redness, preventing free radicals, smoothing imperfections, and more. Our wraps are designed to relax your muscles and stimulate and tighten the skin. No matter which you choose, you are sure to have a relaxing experience.

Injectables

Facial injectables are a great way to rejuvenate and replenish your skin while targeting any problem areas. They greatly reduce the signs of aging by plumping up any areas that have crease, wrinkles, or sagging. At Club West Med Spa, we offer Botox®, Dysport®, Juvederm®, and Voluma® injectables. Check out our treatment offerings to determine which is right for your skincare needs!

SkinMedica & Eminence Organic Skincare Products

We proudly offer professional-grade skincare products so you can take your Club West treatments home with you! Whether you shop these brands online or at the spa, you’re sure to bring a luxurious routine right into your home.

SkinMedica is a high-quality brand that offers skincare solutions for any area of concern. Shop based on your skin type and concern for a fully customized at-home regimen!

Eminence is a completely organic skincare line made with sustainable practices and hand-picked ingredients. They have a personalized product recommender to help you build the perfect routine for your skin.

Gift Certificates

Need some gift inspiration? What better way to show you love someone (including yourself!) than by giving them the gift of luxury? Purchase a Club West Med Spa in-store or right online this holiday season!

Treat Yourself at Club West Med Spa!

Don’t forget to sprinkle in some self-care this season. From everyone at Club West Med Spa, Happy Holidays! We are so grateful for our wonderful community. If you live in or around Midlothian, VA, contact Club West Med Spa to schedule your next appointment. We can’t wait to pamper you!

Delicious Foods for Healthy Skin

Are you feeding your skin properly? Skincare, facials, and fillers are excellent for keeping your skin healthy, but they only go so far if you aren’t giving your skin the nutrients it craves. Luckily, Club West Med Spa has laid out a comprehensive guide to choosing the healthiest foods for your skin and incorporating them into your diet. Read on to learn more!

If you are in the Midlothian, VA, area and are looking for a med spa that will meet all of your unique skin care needs, you’ve come to the right place. Contact us at Club West Med Spa today!

The Best Foods to Feed Your Skin

1. Healthy Fats

Many people view “fats” as a villain, but the truth is healthy fats are essential to your overall health. The good fats act as a moisturizer that keeps your skin looking supple and glowing.

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are a building block of healthy skin. They reduce inflammation which can contribute to acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Salmon, sardines, and trout are some of the best sources of omega-3s.

Avocado

Avocado toast is a phenomenon for a reason, and not just because it’s delicious. Avocados contain a high source of healthy fats and vitamin E, which is excellent for your skin’s health.

2. Vitamin C

A champion of skin health, vitamin C is necessary for collagen production. Collagen is what keeps your skin firm and plump! As we age, collagen production slows down, which means we need to supplement its natural production with our diet.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes have high levels of vitamin C. They also contain lycopene, a wonderful element that fights cancer and prevents wrinkling and sun damage.

Bell Peppers

Bell peppers contain an underrated amount of vitamin C, at 211% of your daily value in only one cup!

3. Antioxidants

Antioxidants protect your body from harmful free radicals that lead to disease. They help prevent oxidation that causes skin aging and damage, as well as protect against UV rays and pollution.

Berries

Berries like blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries contain high levels of antioxidants. If you can, choose wild blueberries over regular ones, as they have double the levels of antioxidants.

Berries are super easy to incorporate into your diet. You can throw them in yogurt bowls, oatmeal, or smoothies for breakfast, with some chocolate for dessert, or simply on their own.

Green Tea

Green tea and matcha green tea are excellent sources of antioxidants that protect your skin from aging. Additionally, the compounds in green tea can protect against sun damage. When you’re craving a midday pick-me-up, try reaching for some green tea instead of coffee.

Are you a matcha fan? You should be–it contains about three times the amount of antioxidants of regular green tea (but be aware it has more caffeine). Beware of premade options from Starbucks or Dunkin’, which are loaded with sugar. Instead, choose a ceremonial grade from a grocery store.

4. Protein

The amino acids found in proteins are what produce collagen. Collagen is the essential element that keeps your skin elastic, firm, and youthful-looking. Choose proteins like eggs, chicken breast, turkey, fish, and nuts to supplement your skin health.

5. Dark Chocolate

Chocolate is healthy for your skin? Say no more! Seriously–dark chocolate contains antioxidants that help firm your skin and reduce signs of aging. Take it from Audrey Hepburn, who reportedly ate chocolate every night for dessert. For maximum health benefits, choose a variation with at least 70% cocoa and low sugar content.

6. Water, Water, Water!

You’ve heard it before, but we will never stop emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated. Hydrated skin is happy skin, and when you’re dehydrated, your skin is the first giveaway. Dehydration can cause dull, dry, and itchy skin. Try to follow the six to eight glasses-a-day rule.

If you’re having trouble hydrating during the day, keep a large water bottle on hand at all times to remind you to drink. Adding cut-up fruit or veggies like lemons, cucumbers, or watermelon can contribute some nutrients and make your water tastier!

Club West Med Spa is Your Skin Center!

At Club West Med Spa, we are committed to making you feel and look your best, and one of the best ways to do that is to start from within. You can’t have healthy, glowing skin if you aren’t feeding your body properly! Follow our guide to incorporate these healthy foods into your daily meals and discover just how much your skin can glow.

If you live in Midlothian, VA, stop by Club West Med Spa to start your custom skincare journey!

Chemical Peels for Every Skin Concern

Out with the old and in with the new! Our chemical peels at Club West Med Spa treat fine lines,
wrinkles, sun damage, pore size, acne, pigmentation, and more. These results-driven treatments are some of the most sought-after, and millions of people are already enjoying the life-changing benefits.

Interested in trying a chemical peel? Lucky you–we’re currently running a special on all peels. If you live in the Midlothian, VA area and want to try out our amazing chemical peel treatments, contact us at Club West Med Spa today!

So What Is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a powerful skin exfoliating solution applied to the face, neck, or hands to reveal the smooth and clear skin underneath. What makes this technique so popular is that it’s useful for a variety of skin concerns.

Each chemical peel formulation varies based on your skin concerns, and the exact
process varies depending on the chosen peel. Each peel includes a thorough cleansing and prep solution prior to the treatment. Next, a chemical solution is applied to the skin and left in place for a designated time. While you wait, the peel solution exfoliates your skin. Once the peel has completed its work, it is peeled away to reveal new, regenerated skin.

Which Treatments Does Club West Med Spa Offer?

We offer Vitality Institute and Skin Medica Peels here at Club West. Both brands produce great results, but each formulation of peel differs based on the skin concerns it addresses. Each peel is uniquely formulated and designed to lift pigment, remove sun damage, alleviate acne and scarring, and fight fine lines and wrinkles. All our painless medium-depth VI Peels are safe for all skin types and tones, with results in as little as seven days!

Vitality Institute (VI) Peels

VI Peel Precision Plus

Our most popular treatment, this medium-depth powerhouse peel works to suppress
melanogenesis—the production of melanin—at the source while promoting rapid cell turnover
for a more even and brighter skin tone. Resurfacing action reveals brighter, renewed skin in just seven days.

Targets the Following Skin Concerns:

  • Sun Damage
  • Melasma
  • UV-Induced Pigmentation
  • Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

VI Peel Purify with Precision Plus

Do you have pigmentation issues PLUS acne and/or acne scarring? Enjoy two treatments in one! Take on current breakouts and the scars and pigmentation they leave behind. Our superior purifying and smoothing acne treatment clears away dead skin cells and excess oil to speed breakout. It also clears and purifies pores to prevent future breakouts. By targeting melanogenesis at the source, this treatment helps minimize stubborn post-acne scars and uneven tone for a brighter, smoother surface.

Targets the Following Skin Concerns:

  • Excessive Oil
  • Acne with Hyperpigmentation
  • Acne Scarring
  • Adult Acne

VI Peel Purify

The Purify peel is a multi-faceted treatment for the many triggers and symptoms of acne, from dead skin cells and excessive oiliness to clogged pores and all types of blemishes. Our peel sweeps away skin cells known to clog pores, clears out oil and debris trapped deep within the pores, eliminates bacteria, and balances skin for fewer breakouts and a smoother texture.

Targets the Following Skin Concerns:

  • Excessive Oil
  • Acne with Hyperpigmentation
  • Acne Scarring
  • Adult Acne

VI Peel Advanced

This potent, powerful treatment is ideal for more mature clients that want to intensify results
against deep-set wrinkles and loss of elasticity. Our innovative treatment is formulated with a
synergistic blend of ingredients that penetrate deeper to combat the signs of aging and soften
fine lines and wrinkles. This targeted formula helps enhance collagen stimulation to increase
cell turnover and help firm the skin.

Targets the Following Skin Concerns:

  • Aging Skin (Ages 40+)
  • Wrinkles, Fine Lines, Loss of Elasticity

SkinMedica Peels

Rejuvenize Peel

Rejuvenize Peel is our strongest SkinMedica peel. It is appropriate for moderate to severe skin imperfections and smooths the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and roughness. It’s safe for all skin types but best for light-to-medium skin tones.

  • 3-6 peels are recommended every 3-4 weeks for best results
  • Peeling and redness may last 7-14 days
  • Active ingredients: Salicylic acid, lactic acid, resorcinol, and retinol (highest concentration)

Vitalize Peel

Vitalize Peel is the number one peel sold in the USA and the top seller among all SkinMedica peels. It is appropriate for mild to moderate skin imperfections and safe for all skin types, including darker skin types for which laser treatments may not be recommended. It improves melasma, brown spots, fine lines, and acne scars.

  • 3-6 peels are recommended every 3-4 weeks for best results
  • Light peeling lasts approximately 7 days. There is minimal-to-no redness
  • Great for maintenance treatment after IPL (Photofacials) and Fraxel Laser treatments
  • Active ingredients: Salicylic acid, lactic acid, resorcinol, and retinol

Illuminize Peel

Illuminize Peel is a light, “pre-party” peel. It is recommended for immediate improvement of texture and tone and is safe for all skin types. There is no visible peeling or downtime–you can go right out afterward, and your skin will be glowing!

  • Have one whenever a glow is desired, as frequently as every 2 weeks
  • Active ingredients: salicylic, mandelic, malic, and phytic acids and resorcinol

Progressive Peel Package

We offer a package of one Vitalize Peel followed by two Rejuvenize Peels for optimized benefits! We strongly recommend combining these peels with a recommended SkinMedica System at home when treating melasma, brown pigmentations, or fine lines and wrinkles.

Try A Chemical Peel at Club West Med Spa!

Interested in trying out a chemical peel to address your unique skin concerns? At Club West Med Spa in Midlothian, VA, we offer a wide variety of options suited to your skin type. Contact us today to learn about our chemical peel special!

Spooky Myths About Botox & Fillers

Spooky Myths About Botox & Fillers

It’s Spooky Season! And while the myths surrounding Botox and fillers can be scary, the treatments themselves aren’t. Deciding if treatments are right for you can be difficult because of all the conflicting information and widespread misinformation. Club West Med Spa is here to dispel the most common misconceptions about injectable treatments.

If you are in the Midlothian, VA area and are interested in our Botox® and filler treatments, contact us at Club West Med Spa today!

The Lowdown on Botox® & Fillers

If you don’t know what Botox® and fillers are, there’s a greater chance that your idea of them is shaped by frightening myths you may have heard.

So what are they? Botox® and fillers are injectable treatments designed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and signs of aging. They work by filling out the areas with creases or sagging for a plumper appearance.

7 Common Myths About Injectables

1. Botox® is Toxic

It is widely believed that Botox® is derived from the toxin botulism, and therefore that it is toxic to the body. This is simply not the case. It is derived from a purified protein of the toxin but does not consist of the toxin itself. It is FDA-approved for a variety of uses, meaning it has been thoroughly researched and tested. This should give you peace of mind!

2. Fillers Make You Lose All Facial Expressions

When they think of Botox®, the “frozen” facial expression comes to mind for many. This is an idea perpetuated by the media and used as a caricature. Though the “frozen” look is possible, it is only caused by over-injecting. When you choose a trained professional to administer the filler, you don’t need to worry about this scary side effect.

3. Once You Get Filler, You’ll Have To Get it Forever

This couldn’t be further from the truth. Botox® and other injectable fillers are temporary treatments that dissolve over time. In fact, filler only lasts about three to four months; meaning, if you don’t want to continue with treatments, you don’t have to.

4. Botox is Addictive

There are no addictive elements in Botox®, filler, or any other injectables. The people you think may be addicted to fillers are likely just “addicted” to the dopamine release they feel after getting a procedure. It’s not possible to become addicted to filler–you’ll just love the way it makes you feel about yourself!

5. The Procedure is Painful

Receiving injectables is a relatively painless procedure. The majority of fillers contain lidocaine, a numbing agent, and your esthetician will apply a topical anesthetic before inserting the needle. Most people just feel a slight pinch, if anything at all. The pain level is often compared to that of a mosquito bite–that isn’t too scary, is it?

6. Fillers Make Wrinkles Worse

Many people believe that once you get filler, your wrinkles will come back looking worse than before. As the filler dissolves, your wrinkles will slowly return to the state they appeared before your treatment, but not worse. Fillers are temporary, so if you don’t want your wrinkles to reappear, you can obtain regular treatments.

7. Botox® is a Purely Aesthetic Treatment

In addition to being an aesthetic procedure, Botox® can actually help with certain medical conditions. In fact, it was first used in the 1970s as a treatment for strabismus, an eye condition. Patients who suffer from migraines, TMJ, neck spasms, hyperhidrosis, overactive bladder, and more have all found relief from injectable treatments.

Try Fillers at Club West Med Spa!

When you decide to begin injectable treatments at Club West Med Spa, leave your superstitions at the door. At our Midlothian, VA, office, we offer Botox®, Dysport®, Juvederm®, and Voluma® injectables. If you are interested in fillers but aren’t sure which types are right for you, speak with one of our professionals at Club West Med Spa today. Our team is happy to help you feel your best!

Reversing the Appearance of Skin Aging

Reversing the Appearance of Skin Aging

We all want younger-looking skin, and we’ve all been bombarded with different methods of achieving it. With so many different treatments and products at your disposal, it can be overwhelming to figure out what works best for you. That’s why Club West Med Spa has outlined a comprehensive guide to reducing the appearance of skin aging. From skincare products and injectable treatments to lifestyle changes, we’re here to explain it all!

If you are in the Midlothian, VA area and are interested in our Botox® or other injectable treatments or are just looking to learn more about taking care of your skin, contact us at Club West Med Spa today!

Skincare

Skincare is a crucial part of reducing the appearance of aging. Having a solid skincare routine with products tailored to your skin type will keep your skin hydrated, moisturized, and glowing.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is like magic for your skin. It is a naturally occurring substance that, when applied to your skin, greatly increases hydration. It can help make your skin look fuller and give you that youthful glow. Incorporate it into your skincare routine to keep your skin looking healthy. To learn more, read our last blog post!

SPF

The importance of SPF has probably been preached to you, but it’s for a good reason. SPF is essential for protecting your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Some of those effects are premature aging, wrinkles, sun spots, and hyperpigmentation. It’s one of the easiest things you can do every day to protect yourself–trust us, your skin will thank you!

Lifestyle

Stay Hydrated

Hydrated skin is happy skin! If you are dehydrated, your skin is one of the first giveaways. Your skin may appear dry or oily (if you have oily-prone skin), and your complexion will look dull and muted. To stay properly hydrated, you should be drinking around half an ounce to an ounce of water per pound you weigh. This will keep your skin looking plump and moisturized.

Sleep With a Silk Pillowcase

If you haven’t discovered the benefits of sleeping on silk yet, now is the time. You may not even realize it, but your regular cotton pillowcases are actually pretty rough on your skin. Silk is softer and therefore creates less friction and abrasion on your face. Replacing your cotton pillowcases with silk will give you a luxurious, high-end feeling while protecting your skin!

Eat a Balanced Diet

Did you know that the food you eat can be a cause of aging skin? Foods with high glycemic index, like sugars and simple carbs, are inflammatory to the body, speeding along the aging process. You definitely don’t need to give up on dessert forever–but finding joy in moderation is powerful.

Adding more healthy foods to your diet is more important than removing unhealthy foods. Here is a list of some anti-inflammatory foods to start adding to your meals. Maintaining a balanced diet and incorporating more anti-inflammatory foods into your diet will make you glow from the inside out!

Cut Down on Drinking and Smoking

Everyone has their vices, but the truth is, they are greatly damaging to your skin and your overall health. Alcohol is very dehydrating, and drinking regularly can cause long-term damage to your skin. Smoking is also incredibly detrimental to your skin’s health. It rapidly speeds up the aging process and can cause wrinkles and dullness. By cutting alcohol and cigarettes out of your life or enjoying them in moderation, you can save years of your life.

Botox® & Fillers

Injectable Fillers

Dermal Fillers are injectables intended to reduce wrinkles. They are injected underneath the skin and create volume that plumps up any dull or creased areas. Because they are so widespread today, fillers are more accessible than ever! They are a quick and efficient anti-aging treatment that is easy to keep up with.

At Club West Med Spa, we offer Botox®, Dysport®, Juvederm®, and Voluma® injectables. Each one is a highly-rated treatment designed to create volume and reduce the appearance of aging. Not sure which one is right for you? Contact our team to learn more!

Visit Club West Med Spa

A visit to Club West Med Spa is an investment in yourself. Our team of professionals is committed to making you look and feel your best. Whether you are looking for injectable treatments or shopping for skincare, there’s no better place to be. If you live in or around Midlothian, VA, contact Club West Med Spa today!

What Is Hyaluronic Acid & Should I Use It?

You’ve probably seen it on drugstore shelves, in magazine articles, or being promoted by your favorite celebrity or influencer. Hyaluronic acid has been a buzzword in the skincare industry recently, and for good reason. But what IS it? And is it good for your skin type? Club West Med Spa is here to answer all your questions about this miracle product and if it’s worth the hype.

If you are in the Midlothian, VA area, visit Club West Med Spa for all of your skincare needs! Contact us today to set up your next appointment.

So What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Many consider hyaluronic acid (HA) a “holy grail” skincare product due to its long list of benefits.
HA is a naturally-occurring humectant, which means it draws in moisture and retains it on the skin’s surface. It can bind up to a thousand times its weight in water, making it an incredible hydrating agent. But its advantages don’t stop there!

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

  • Moisturizing & Hydrating: HA encourages your skin to hold onto more moisture. This is especially beneficial to those with dry or dehydrated skin.
  • Anti-Aging: It targets dehydrated areas of the skin and rehydrates them, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Skin Elasticity: HA makes the skin appear fuller and plumper, giving a more youthful appearance.
  • Treats Wounds & Burns: Aside from being a wonderful addition to your skincare routine, HA can actually be used to treat wounds!
  • Treats Eczema & Facial Redness: HA has anti-inflammatory properties which help fight symptoms of eczema and redness.

Is Hyaluronic Acid Right for My Skin Type?

Though it might seem too good to be true, it isn’t–hyaluronic acid is beneficial to every skin type! This can be attributed to the fact that it is naturally occurring in the body, so applying the product simply helps enhance what your skin is already doing. This also means that it is rare to experience adverse side effects or allergic reactions.

Dry Skin

Those with dry skin types benefit the most from HA. It is deeply hydrating and increases the moisture in your skin while holding onto it for longer. This reduces fine lines and wrinkles.

Oily Skin

If you have an oily skin type, your skin is overcompensating for a lack of moisture by producing too much oil. Using HA over time can teach your skin to produce the correct amount of oil.

Combination Skin

If you deal with both dry patches and an oily T-zone on your face, you can use HA to target your problem areas and promote proper hydration.

Normal Skin

Even if you rarely have issues with your skin, keeping your skin hydrated is never a bad idea. You can incorporate HA into your skincare routine to promote a healthy glow.

How To Use It

Now that you know the benefits of trying hyaluronic acid, it’s time to incorporate it into your skincare routine!

  1. Cleanse: Cleanse your skin with your favorite face wash. If you also like to use toner, this is a good time to apply it.
  2. Apply Hyaluronic Acid: While your skin is still damp from cleansing, apply your hyaluronic acid serum. This retains all of that water and works to hydrate your skin.
  3. Moisturize: Apply your moisturizer on top of your serum. This locks in the hyaluronic acid and makes it last longer.
  4. Voila! Say hello to hydrated and glowing skin!

Visit Club West Med Spa

At Club West Med Spa, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the best possible care. We are proud to feature Éminence Organic Skincare, a line of high-quality, sustainable skincare products. Visit their website to shop their complete line of hyaluronic acid products to boost your skin’s natural glow.

If you live in or around Midlothian, VA, visit our team of professionals to give your skin the care it deserves. Contact Club West Med Spa today to set up an appointment!

Do I Need Different Sunscreen for My Face?

Do I Need Different Sunscreen for My Face?

We’ve all been told the importance of SPF time and time again. But, like many others, you’ve probably been left wondering: do I really need a different sunscreen for my face? You’ve probably heard conflicting arguments. This is because the answer may slightly differ for everyone, and the secret may lie in your skin type. Club West Med Spa is here to lay out all the information about choosing the right sunscreen for your face based on your skin type and preferences!

If you are in the Midlothian, VA area, contact us at Club West Med Spa today to learn more!

The Importance of SPF

Need a refresh on the benefits of wearing sunscreen regularly? The list is nearly endless, but here are some of the main reasons!

  • Avoid burns and sun blisters
  • Protect against skin cancer
  • Slow down premature aging
  • Prevent wrinkles & fine lines

Do I Really Need a Different Kind for My Face?

The short answer is technically no–but the long answer is that while you don’t necessarily have to use separate products for your face and body, you should. While you don’t technically need to use a different sunscreen, most dermatologists would recommend it. This is because our face has some of the most sensitive skin on our bodies, which means it reacts differently to products.

Think about it this way: we use different cleansers, moisturizers, and lotions for our face than for our bodies, so it’s not a bad idea to find a sunscreen specifically formulated for your face as well.

So if you’re in a pinch and all you have is regular SPF body lotion–absolutely use it! Regular sunscreen is better than no sunscreen–but when it’s available to you, find a face sunscreen you love and stick with it!

Types of Face Sunscreen

If you are serious about your skincare and are looking to upgrade your summer routine, we’re here to help, and finding a good SPF for your face is a great place to start! There are many different types of facial sunscreen, all suited to a wide range of skin types, lifestyles, and preferences. Here are a few different options!

Chemical

Chemical sunscreen is the most popular type of sunscreen and the type you’ll most commonly find in a drugstore. The chemicals in the formula absorb the sun’s rays and turn them into heat, then release the heat through your skin. If you’re going the chemical route, make sure you’re reapplying more often since the sun causes the sunscreen to break down.

Since there are so many formulas, it’s relatively easy to find an option that blends well with your skin and doesn’t feel too heavy. Before buying one, you should always do your research–some chemicals can be harsh on the skin, especially if you are already sensitive to certain products or fragrances. If you are prone to breakouts, look for an oil-free option.

Mineral

Mineral sunscreen is another option that is typically preferred by those looking for a more natural sunblock. The minerals, which are usually zinc oxide or titanium, act as a barricade between your skin and the UV rays. It’s not quite as seamless as a chemical sunscreen and will often leave a thick and grainy residue on the skin–which is why it’s not always a preferred choice.

Regardless, mineral sunscreen has many benefits. It works well with all skin types, so it can be used universally. It is the best choice for those with sensitive skin since chemical sunscreens can be harsh. Additionally, it is recommended for people with melasma or dark marks because it can prevent hyperpigmentation.

For Your Skin Type

Depending on your skin type, it may be helpful to find sunscreen specifically tailored to you. This is most applicable for those with the more extreme types like oily/acne prone and sensitive.

Not sure what your skin type is? Check out our previous blog post to help determine which skin type you have and which products are best for you!

Tinted/Makeup Based

Tinted sunscreen is another great option, especially if you have acne-prone skin or are just looking for some fuller coverage. There are tons of great options on the market. Additionally, you can find makeup products that contain SPF. This is a great option if you aren’t going to be out in the sun all day.

Take a Trip to Club West Med Spa!

At Club West Med Spa, we want you to look and feel your best–and this is especially important in the summer months when your skin is more at risk from sun exposure.
If you live in or around Midlothian, VA, our skilled estheticians at Club West Med Spa are here to help you determine your skin’s needs and find the best skincare products for you. Contact us today to discover our services!

The Dos & Don’ts of Summer Skin Care

The Dos & Don’ts of Summer Skin Care

Just like our closet gets a refresh for every season, so should our skincare routine! This is especially true in the summer since our skin has to adjust to the drastic change in temperature and exposure to the sun. Your skin is the largest organ in your body, so it deserves special attention and care.

We’ve laid out all of the do’s and don’ts of summer skincare so you can be confident in your warm-weather routine. If you are in the Midlothian, VA area, contact us at Club West Med Spa today to learn more!

The Do’s

SPF, SPF, SPF

One more time for the people in the back–SPF!! But seriously, if you do one thing for your skin this summer, lather it up with sunscreen. Those UV rays are great in small doses but can be very damaging to your skin. They can cause premature aging, wrinkles, and dark spots, not to mention painful burns and an increased risk for skin cancer. The best thing you can do when you’re going out in the sun is to protect your skin with an SPF that works for you.

Not sure what type of SPF works best for your skin type? Read our blog about choosing the best skincare for your type to find out!

Find a Good Toner

Toner is a saving grace in the summertime–not only does it feel great on your face, but it also helps shrink your pores! This keeps oil, dirt, sweat, and bacteria out of your pores and keeps your skin healthy. There are tons of toner options on the market that come in scents like rosewater, cucumber, and coconut water. Spray a little on your face for an instant refreshing feeling that keeps your skin clean!

Stay Hydrated

Hydrated skin is happy skin–and soft, firm, and glowing skin. There are SO many reasons to stay hydrated in the summertime, but your skin is an essential one. Keeping yourself hydrated encourages elasticity in your skin, which reduces wrinkles and other signs of aging. It also reduces oil on the skin, which can get heavy when you already have sweat and products built up on your face.

Exfoliate!

Adding an exfoliator to your skincare routine is especially important in the summer. Think about it–after a day in the sun, your face is likely to have a buildup of sweat, sunscreen, makeup, and dirt and debris from being outside. Exfoliating will help get rid of that buildup and help your skin shed those dirty and dried-out layers.

The Don’ts

Limit Sun Exposure

Spending time in the sun is one of the best parts of the summer, we get it; but, too much sun exposure is quite dangerous for your skin. Do your best to stay out of direct sunlight during its peak hours, between 10 AM and 2 PM. You can also use the weather app on your phone to check the UV index (the higher the number, the harsher the UV exposure). The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends staying in the shade as much as possible, and when you are in the sun, be sure to wear sunglasses, light layers of clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat in addition to your SPF.

Avoid Heavy Makeup

Lots of heavy makeup can seriously clog your pores, and with sweat and sunscreen already built up on your face, it can get seriously uncomfortable. It’s essential to let your skin breathe in the summer, so it’s best to embrace your natural skin and lighten up on the makeup. Your skin will thank you!

Don’t Neglect the Forgotten Areas

The “forgotten areas” are just what they sound like–the parts of our bodies that most of us don’t think about including in our skincare routine. The biggest ones are lips, ears, neck, hands, and feet, and they need love too! When applying sunscreen, be sure not to forget about any of these areas. Try to find a lip balm with SPF in it and make sure your lips are nice and moisturized! Plus, staying hydrated will help keep your lips smooth as well.

Keep Shower Time Short

It might feel natural to bathe more often in the warmer months since we’re sweating and getting outside more, but this can actually be detrimental to your skin. Showering too much and for too long can be seriously drying to your skin, which is already fighting through sun exposure. If you can, cut your showers down to quick five-minute rinses as opposed to 20-minute soaks.

Additionally, if you have an oily skin type, excess washing can actually cause increased oil production to overcompensate. Extra oil on your skin is the last thing you want in the summer, so keep the rinsing to a minimum!

See How Club West Med Spa Can Help!

Show your skin some love this summer! At Club West Med Spa, our estheticians are experienced and dedicated to giving your skin the treatment it deserves. If you live in or around Midlothian, VA, contact Club West Med Spa today to learn about all that we can do for you!

Skin Care, Treatment Planning and Injectables (Botox, Dysport, filler) are $50. Body Sculpting (Coolsculpting, Emsculpt Neo, Emtone) Consultations are complimentary and Laser Hair Removal Consultations are complimentary. – those treatments require a consultation on order to be treated so we waive the $50 fee. For skin care we recommend coming in for a traditional facial so the esthetician can take a look at your skin under the mag lamp and get familiar with skin type, skin needs and individual concerns. If client does not want to do facial first, then we require the $50 fee for consultation, treatment planning and individuals treatment recommendations.