1. To relieve muscle pain

Massage increases blood circulation to the muscles, which helps to reduce muscle pain. Additionally, regular massage helps to improve your flexibility, which can help you avoid muscle pain in the future. Finally, this form of therapy releases endorphins, which help alleviate pain.

2. To reduce stress

Regular massage treatments can help make you feel happier, lighter and more at ease in your day-to-day life. This is because therapeutic massage has been found to reduce cortisol, which is sometimes referred to as the “stress hormone.” In fact, massage therapy can help you to feel relaxed for several days after a treatment.

3. To counteract the effects of sitting

Working in front of a computer all day may be your livelihood, but it’s not great for your posture. This is because when sitting, most people start to slump their shoulders, which consequently leads to shoulder, neck and back pain. Regular massage counteracts the effects of sitting and allows you to be more comfortable while on the job.

4. To boost your immunity

The correlation between stress and poor health is well established. In a recent study, researchers found that individuals who received a 45-minute massage had a higher number of white blood cells than they did prior to the treatment. Both the stress relieving benefits of massage and this study indicate that massage can make you healthier

5. To relieve your headaches

Tension held at the base of your skull and neck may be to blame for chronic headaches and migraines. A neck, shoulder and upper back massage can help to relieve this tension and reduce your head pain. In fact, many chronic headache sufferers find that a visit to their massage therapist helps greatly during an attack.

91×ÔĹÄ: more than a cosmetology school

We take pride in helping people turn their passions into exciting careers, but we also love to make our clients feel great about themselves. Visit a medical spa at a 91×ÔĹÄ near you to experience the benefits of therapeutic massage. We also offer many other services including waxing and medical aesthetics. Call us today to make an appointment.

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Different skin types  

There are five basic skin types:

1. Normal. This skin isn’t overly dry or oily, has balanced sebum production and good blood circulation.

2. Oily. A result of excess sebum production, this skin can look greasy and is prone to acne.

3. Dry. Often flaky or rough, dry skin is a result of low sebum production and can feel tight or irritated.

4. Combination. As the name implies, combination skin is a mixture of dry and oily skin types. Most commonly, the forehead and nose are oily while the cheeks and chin are dry.

5. Sensitive. This skin type often reacts adversely to new products, the sun and even spicy foods. People with allergies, eczema and asthma often have this skin type.

How to identify your skin type

The wash test is the best way to pinpoint your skin type. Wash your face thoroughly with a mild cleanser. Without applying any moisturizers or other products, wait 30 minutes to an hour. After the time has passed, inspect your skin, taking into consideration how it feels.

• Skin that looks shiny all over, has visible pores and doesn’t feel any different when you move your face is probably oily.

• If your skin feels tight, especially when you smile or otherwise move your face, your skin type is most likely dry.

• A shiny nose and forehead but tight, dull cheeks indicate combination skin.

• If your skin looks great with no shine or tightness, you’re one of the lucky few with normal skin.

Visit a medical spa to learn more

If you need so help identifying your skin type or would like advice on how to care for your skin, make an appointment with a cosmetology student or professional at a 91×ÔĹÄ medical spa.

You can also experience the benefits of a professional touch and the right products with a specialized facial based on your skin type. Afterwards, a makeup artist can help you look your best

We also offer treatments such as Botox and massage therapy. Call us today to learn more about our services schedule an appointment at one of our GTA campuses.

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Regular facials are crucial for flushing out toxins and promoting skin regeneration. If you want to give yourself a restorative facial using natural ingredients you have at home, follow these six steps.

1. Cleanse

Wash your face first to remove dirt, makeup and excess oil. Raw honey has hydrating and antibacterial properties that make it an effective cleanser for all skin types. Dampen your face with warm water, gently rub a pea-size amount onto your skin and rinse with cool water.

2. Exfoliate

The granular texture of an exfoliant removes dead skin cells that would otherwise clog your pores. Sugar, oats and ground rice are all gentle options for sensitive skin. Mix with honey, olive oil or milk to facilitate application. Gently rub the exfoliant on your face in a circular motion for a few minutes and then rinse with cool water.

3. Steam

The warm vapour relaxes your skin, opens up your pores and flushes out toxins. Place a towel over your head and lean over a bowl of hot water for five to 10 minutes. Add fresh herbs or essential oils for a soothing aroma. Basil, lavender and bay leaves all have anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Apply a face mask

Various natural ingredients can be combined to create a custom face mask that targets your specific skin concerns. Avocado and banana help heal cracked and dry skin, turmeric powder targets acne-causing bacteria and plain Greek yogurt is rich in probiotics. Apply the mixture in a thin layer and rinse the mask off with cool water after 10 to 15 minutes.

5. Tone

A toner helps remove residual dirt, seals your pores against toxins and controls acne. Apple cider vinegar is a great option that helps balance the pH of your skin, which can reduce inflammation and redness. Apply a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar to your skin using a cotton pad and allow it to dry naturally.

6. Moisturize

Proper hydration helps maintain your skin’s elasticity, reduces wrinkles and promotes radiant-looking skin. Natural products such as olive oil, coconut oil and aloe vera help lock in moisture to protect your skin from damage. Make sure to choose ingredients that work well based on your skin type. Apply the moisturizer in a circular motion and let it absorb.

Visit a medical spa in the GTA

The students and professionals at 91×ÔĹÄ offer a range of skin care treatments to address acne, wrinkles, dry skin and more. You can also enjoy the benefits of our nail care, Botox, massage, laser hair removal and waxing treatments. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our cosmetology programs.

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Do you have dark spots on your skin that you just can’t get rid of? If so, you probably have some sort of hyperpigmentation. Also known as age spots, liver spots, freckles or acne scars, hyperpigmentation occurs when your skin produces too much melanin, the pigment responsible for your skin’s colour. Here’s everything you should know about this common skin concern.

What causes hyperpigmentation?

There are three common types of hyperpigmentation:

• Believed to be caused by hormonal changes, melasma is characterized by patches of darker skin. Most common on the face, it can also occur on the shoulders, neck and other areas that are exposed to the sun. It’s most common on women of colour and during pregnancy.

• Different from a sunburn, sunspots and freckles are the result of sun exposure over time. They’re most common on the hands and face but can appear anywhere on the body.

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This refers to the dark spots that sometimes remain behind after an injury or once your acne has cleared up.

If you’re predisposed to hyperpigmentation, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun and to avoid irritating or injuring your skin by picking at it.

Treating hyperpigmentation

Generally, hyperpigmentation isn’t harmful. However, there are treatments available if you’d like to get rid of it.

• Topical products. Exfoliating beauty products with antioxidants can help to lighten dark spots and generally brighten your skin.

• Laser therapy. Laser treatments can help to lighten dark spots caused by the sun. However, this isn’t a great choice for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, as the lasers can cause inflammation.

• This treatment offers a more profound exfoliation, encouraging new skin cell growth.

• Chemical peels. There are a few different types of chemical peels that can target dark spots. Because of the nature of the products used, it’s important that they be applied under the supervision of a professional and not at home.

Not all of these treatments are suitable for everyone. We encourage you to visit a professional at a medical spa to discover the benefits and drawbacks of each option.

Medical spas in Toronto

If you’re ready to do something about your hyperpigmentation, visit one of 91×ÔĹÄ’s medi-spa clinics. You’ll benefit from top of the line treatments performed by licenced professionals and talented cosmetology students.

If you’d like to learn more about medical aesthetics or would like to pursue a career as an aesthetician makeup artist, or hair stylist, we’re the school for you. Contact us today to find out about the exciting programs we offer.

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If you’ve booked your first waxing appointment, you might not be sure of what to expect. Talking to your esthetician about it beforehand is one way to help soothe your nerves. In the meantime, you should be preparing your skin for the procedure. Waxing is more than worthwhile, but it can be tough on your skin, so it’s important you’ve taken the necessary steps to make sure things go as smoothly as possible.

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Moisturize

In the days leading up to your appointment, moisturize the skin of the area to be waxed. This reduces the pain of waxing, as wax releases from well-moisturized skin more easily. Skip this step on the day of your procedure, as the moisturizer itself can prevent the wax from sufficiently adhering to your hair.

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Exfoliate

Since exfoliation can make your skin sensitive, it’s not something you should do the day of your waxing appointment. However, it’s a good idea to exfoliate a day or two beforehand. A gentle scrub will help ensure that wax clings to your hair and not your skin, making for a more comfortable waxing experience. By removing dead skin and trapped hair, it’ll also prevent ingrown hairs from forming after you’ve waxed.

Give your skin a once over

Before heading out to your appointment, look over the area of skin to be waxed. If there are any breakages or inflammation, you’ll have to reschedule your appointment until you’ve healed. Let your esthetician know about any moles or beauty marks so that they can ensure they’re protected during the procedure.

Take a warm bath

The day you’re scheduled for waxing, spend at least 10-15 minutes in a warm bath. Soaking in hot water will hydrate your skin and open your pores, allowing for easier hair removal. This is yet another way you can make waxing less painful.

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Wear loose clothing

When you leave for your appointment, dress in loose fitting clothing. Tight clothes can irritate freshly waxed skin, causing discomfort and increasing the possibility of developing ingrown hairs. You’ll find yourself feeling far more comfortable in soft, loose clothing.

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Top cosmetology programs in the GTA

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in cosmetology and want to learn more about medical spa benefits or medical aesthetics, 91×ÔĹÄ is the place for you. We have several locations throughout Ontario and offer courses in hairstyling, esthetics, makeup and health sciences. To learn more about our programs and curriculums, feel free to contact us today!

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No matter how extensive your skincare routine is, one product you should always incorporate is sunscreen. It reduces your risk of developing skin cancer and keeps your skin looking healthy and young. Since it’s a product you should be using regularly, it’s important that you find the right one for you. The first step in narrowing your options is to understand the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens.

Ingredients

Naturally, the main difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens is their components. The former is composed of several chemicals, including oxybenzone, octocrylene and avobenzone. The latter is made up of the minerals zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Some people worry that chemical sunscreens are harmful, but no evidence has been found in support of that claim.

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How they work

While both types can effectively protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays, they do so through different means. Mineral sunscreen provides a physical barrier that completely blocks UV rays from penetrating your skin. Chemical sunscreen allows the rays to be absorbed into the skin, then triggers a chemical reaction that converts the UV light into heat, which then dissipates without harming the cells.

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Application

Mineral sunscreen offers immediate protection, but chemical sunscreen, on the other hand, needs time to soak into your skin. This means that if you plan on using chemical sunscreen, you have to apply it 20-30 minutes before leaving your house. In both cases, you should reapply sunscreen every two hours.

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Sensitive skin

Some people feel that chemical sunscreen is too harsh on their skin. If you have sensitive skin, you may find that it leads to breakouts or allergic reactions, particularly on your face. If this is your case, mineral might be the way to go. You can also look into buying facial sunscreens, which tend to be gentler on sensitive skin.

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Makeup

If you like to wear a full face of makeup on a daily basis, mineral sunscreen is the choice for you. Unlike chemical sunscreen, it can be applied over makeup, so you won’t have to sacrifice your foundation for UV protection.

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Cosmetology colleges in Ontario

91×ÔĹÄ offers high-quality education in the field of cosmetology. We have several locations in Ontario where you can receive training in everything from waxing to medical aesthetics. Contact us today for more information about the skills you’ll gain at our school!

The post Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreen appeared first on 91×ÔĹÄ.

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During the week, it’s easy to get swept up in the commitments and challenges of everyday life. Thankfully, weekends are there to give your mind and body a much-needed rest. These days off can be a great time to practice self-care, particularly when it comes to looking after your skin. Spending a few days makeup-free is the perfect way to give your skin a break and, with extra time on your hands, you can treat yourself to forms of skincare you may not have time for on busy weekdays.

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Face masks

Face masks are some of the most popular skincare products out there, and with good reason. There is a wide variety to choose from. You can try clay, charcoal, or even sheet masks. It’s all about finding the one that meets your skin’s needs. Face masks benefit your skin in many ways and give you a chance to sit back, relax and enjoy your home spa treatment.

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Lip balm

Swap out the lipstick for lip balm this weekend. The skin on your lips deserves some attention as well, and lip balm will nourish and hydrate it. Lipsticks, especially matte ones, can dry out your lips. If lipstick is part of your daily makeup look, then lip balm is an absolute must.

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Scrubs

Adding lip and facial scrubs to your weekend skincare routine can be revolutionary. You can buy them premade or make them yourself. All you need is coconut oil and sugar. This product is a favourite among many, because it leaves your skin feeling soft and rejuvenated.

Pore strips

While they should only be used about once a month, pore strips are incredibly easy to use. They’ll unclog your pores in an instant. All you need to do is wet your face, apply the strip, then carefully remove it once it’s dry for immediate gratification.

Moisturizer

Treat yourself over the weekend by pulling out your most luxurious skincare products. After a hot shower or bubble bath, moisturize with your favourite lotions or body creams. It’s wonderful for your skin and it’s a great way to relax and shake off the week’s stresses.

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91×ÔĹÄ

With several campus locations in Ontario, 91×ÔĹÄ is one of the most widely recognized beauty schools in Canada. Whether you’re interested in hairstyling or health sciences, you’ll receive a thorough practical and theoretical education that’ll give you a competitive edge when entering the beauty industry. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us!

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Implementing a nighttime skincare routine is a form of self-care that anyone can benefit from, and it only takes a few minutes! You’ll find yourself looking rejuvenated and energized, all thanks to these quick and easy steps.

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Remove your makeup

Most of us know that you should never go to bed with your makeup on, no matter how tired you are. Every step of your bedtime skincare routine is important, but this one absolutely essential. Look for a makeup remover that’s strong enough to remove even the toughest waterproof mascara, but that’s also gentle on your skin.

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Clean your skin

A good cleanser will clean your face by removing dirt, oil, dead skin cells and any residual makeup that you might have missed in the first step. This is key to unclogging pores and preventing breakouts. We recommend opting for gentle cleansers to avoid irritating your skin.

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Apply toner

Pat your face dry with a soft cloth, then rub a quarter-sized dollop of toner into your skin. Toner balances your skin’s pH and moisture levels and will help reduce the appearance of large pores and keep oily skin under control. This product is often ignored, but it has so many benefits that we can’t recommend it enough.

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Take care of targeted treatments

This next step of your nighttime skincare routine can be tailored to meet any specific needs or concerns you might have. Some people may opt for a hydrating serum, while others may prefer a brightening serum. If you’ve been prescribed any skincare products by your dermatologist, this is the time to apply them.

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Apply night cream

Finally, you need to apply your night cream, which will moisturize your skin. Night cream is also important for ensuring that the previous steps of your routine don’t go to waste, as it seals in their effects. Since you leave it on throughout the night, be sure to clean off any residue when you wake up in the morning.

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91×ÔĹÄ in Ontario

If you’re interested in beauty school, consider 91×ÔĹÄ. We have several locations in the Greater Toronto Area and offer programs in makeup, esthetics and more. With our skilled instructors, modern equipment and meticulously curated curriculum, we guarantee that you’ll receive a high-quality education. Feel free to contact us with any questions or to get more information about our programs.

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If your eyebrows are sparse and you have tried every brow product to achieve fullness to no avail, . A certified technician will use a special tool called a microblading pen to create thin strokes that mimic your real hair, resulting in a very natural look. Microblading requires minimal upkeep, saving you precious time and money. Additionally, you can expect your eyebrows to maintain their perfect shape anywhere from 8 to 18 months.

At our beauty schools in Ontario, we understand the value of makeup trends, including the emerging phenomenon and popularity of cosmetic tattooing. Subsequently, we are proud to offer a microblading certificate program at our makeup school in Toronto.

5 Steps to Take Before Your Microblading Treatment

You are one microblading treatment away from your vision of perfect brows. Here are 5 ways you can effectively prepare for the procedure:

1. Do Your Research – One of the most important steps in preparing for your microblading treatment is to do your research. Find a certified technician who can provide a portfolio of their work and walk you through every step of the procedure in detail. Also, ensure that the salon and tools being used are clean and sterile before you confirm your appointment.
2. No Waxing or Plucking – Even though you will receive local anesthesia before the procedure begins, the goal is to make your skin as insensitive as possible. Refrain from waxing or plucking the area around your eyebrows at least 1 week prior to your appointment.
3. No Facial Treatments – Avoid all facial treatments for 2 weeks prior to your appointment. These may include chemical peels, dermabrasion, or laser treatments. The combination of these treatments may overstimulate your skin, leading to severe irritation and sensitivity.
4. Avoid Sunburns – Do not remain in the sun or use a tanning bed for a prolonged period of time, 3 days before your appointment. Sunburns can irritate the skin and make it extremely sensitive. While a healthy glow is important, overdoing it in the sun may result in permanent skin damage.
5. Blood Thinners – To reduce bleeding during and after your procedure, do not ingest any blood thinners, natural or otherwise. These may include fish oils, vitamin E, coffee, alcohol, and aspirin or ibuprofen.

Say Goodbye to Brow Products with Microblading

Tattooing your face may not sound like the most obvious choice when it comes to achieving an effortless, natural makeup look. However, over recent years, the microblading trend has emerged to change your makeup game for the better. Take your time to find an experienced professional that you are comfortable with to perform the treatment. Also, make sure you give yourself the same level of care to properly maintain your eyebrows post-treatment.

If you want to learn more about emerging eyebrow makeup trends or you are interested in obtaining your microblading certificate, enroll in our program at a Toronto cosmetology college near you.

For more information about our beauty and esthetician schools in Ontario, across the Toronto area, call 91×ÔĹÄ at 1-866-720-4920 or contact us online and we will get back to you promptly.

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1. Keep your face clean – While harsh cleansers should be avoided, you do need to be vigilant about keeping the skin on your face clean and free of possible contaminants. Select a mild cleanser without dyes or perfumes and use it to wash your face for the 72 hours following your treatment. In addition, avoid touching your face unless your hands are sanitized.
2. Moisturize – Expect your skin to be dry in the days following a micro-needling treatment. You’ll want to moisturize frequently with a serum or moisturizer that has hyaluronic acid as a principal ingredient. Avoid products with dyes, fragrances, or harsh chemicals.
3. Protect your skin from the sun – It’s important to minimize exposure to the sun for at least the first three days following a micro-needling treatment. You’ll also need to apply a generous amount of gentle broad spectrum sunscreen rated SPF 30 or higher, something your esthetician will tell you to do daily anyway. In fact, beauty schools in Ontario and beyond make it clear that wearing sunscreen every day is the single best thing that can be done to maintain youthful, healthy-looking skin.
4. No makeup – For the first 24 hours following a micro-needling appointment, it’s best to keep your skin entirely clear of the regular beauty products you use. In particular, non-sterile makeup brushes can transmit bacteria that can easily enter the skin. But the products themselves can clog your pores and interfere with the desired healing process.

Other Precautions

After your micro-needling treatment, it’s best to avoid the following:

• Exercise and strenuous activity that makes you sweat. Gyms in particular should be avoided for the first 72 hours.
• Swimming for at least three days.
• Tanning beds.
• Powered cleansing brushes.
• So-called “active” skincare products, especially anything with retinol, alpha hydroxy acid, beta hydroxy acid or vitamin C, for at least a week.

If You love all things Beauty

Consider becoming an esthetician at one of the best cosmetology schools in Ontario: 91×ÔĹÄ. We have many great hands-on programs leading to in-demand diplomas and certificates, including our medical aesthetics training and our skin care specialist certificate. With several campuses spread out over the Greater Toronto Area, you’re sure to find one within reach. Contact us today to find out more about our innovative and exciting programs.

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