Top 5 Most Common Beauty Treatments

The article Top 5 Most Common Beauty Treatments was originally seen on Toronto Health Spa - Jiva

Here at Jiva Spa, we offer a wide variety of the best medi spa services in Toronto. But have you ever wondered what the most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedures are?

According to a 2011 report from the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, there were over 9 million surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures performed in the United States alone. And since we Canadians often follow what our friends south of the border are doing, you can be sure that these procedures are just as popular in Canada as well.

Here they are, in descending order.

5: IPL Photofacials – 439,161

An IPL photofacial is a technique using intense pulses of light to rejuvenate the skin. It can help with broken capillaries, spider veins, age spots, discolouration, and a number of skin conditions, including acne and rosacea.

The IPL photofacial came in fifth place, with 439,161 treatments performed in 2011.

4: Microdermabrasion – 499,427

A microdermabrasion is an anti aging skin treatment. It works by shooting tiny crystals at your skin, which deep exfoliates your skin, removing the outermost layer. Since this layer is made up entirely of dead skin cells, it reveals healthier, more radiant skin below. Microdermabrasions can also be effective at treating fine lines, wrinkles, acne, age spots, and acne scarring.

The microdermabrasion slid into fourth place, with 499,427 treatments performed in 2011.

3: Laser Hair Removal – 919,802

Laser hair removal is quickly becoming one of the most popular hair removal options on the market, and it’s easy to see why. It works by destroying hair follicles at the root, essentially ceasing your body’s ability to produce new hair in the treated area. This can be a dream come true for many women (and men!) – you can strike that grooming option from your life for good.

Laser hair removal was the third most popular treatment in 2011, with 919,802 treatments performed. But with this treatment becoming increasingly more popular, I wouldn’t be surprised to see these numbers get much higher.

2: Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (Juvederm, Princess, etc.) – 1,206,186

There are many different hyaluronic acid dermal fillers on the market, not all of which we here at Jiva Spa Toronto offer. We specialize in Juvederm and Princess dermal fillers, for the simple reason that they provide our customers with the best results.

However, hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are designed to treat the signs of aging, especially crow’s feet, wrinkles, fine lines, jowls and sagging skin, and more.

More than a million of these procedures were done in 2011 – 1,206,186 – which shows how people are getting more comfortable with the idea of dermal injectables.

1: Botox – 2,619,739

By far the most popular treatment remains Botox – more than twice as many Botox injections were performed than hyaluronic acid fillers. This isn’t necessarily surprising, since Botox and hyaluronic acid fillers are often paired together for better results.

The active ingredient in Botox is a substance derived from a bacteria, botulinum toxin. Whereas hyaluronic acid injectables are designed to fill out your skin using a naturally occurring substance in your skin – hyaluronic acid – Botox is designed to reduce muscle activity in the area, which smoothes out wrinkles, fine lines, and other imperfections.

Contact Jiva Spa Toronto

Have you ever considered any of the above listed treatments? Thinking of “getting some work done” but concerned about the repercussions? If so, contact Jiva Spa Toronto.

You’ll get a chance to sit down for a consultation with one of our expert estheticians, who will listen to your concerns and put together a treatment plan designed to help you meet your aesthetic goals. You can contact us using the information below:

Address:
390 Bloor St W,
Toronto, ON
M5S 1X4

Phone:
(416) 934-0100

Read additional information on: JivaSpa.ca - Nutrition and Beauty

Beauty Solution Profile: The Microdermabrasion

The following post Beauty Solution Profile: The Microdermabrasion is available on Toronto's best spa - Jiva

There are so many different solutions to combat the onset of aging that it can make your head spin. That’s why we’ve put together this article series to help you better understand your options when it comes to achieving your health and beauty goals.

Here at Jiva Spa, we strive to be the best solution for microdermabrasion in Toronto because of the treatment’s many benefits. If you’re unfamiliar with it and what it can do for you, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to find out how a microdermabrasion can help you shave years off your look and reveal beautiful, radiant skin.

What Is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical method to restore smoother, more youthful looking skin.

The process works in a way similar to sandblasting. Using a tool uniquely developed for this specialized procedure, we’ll shoot tiny crystals at your skin. This removes the outermost layer of your skin, which is made up entirely of dead skin cells.

At the same time as the crystals are shot out, the same device sucks them away along with the dead skin cells, revealing only soft, smooth, radiant skin below. It also stimulates the growth of collagen in your skin, providing an added anti-aging benefit. As we grow older, the collagen in your skin regenerates more slowly, so giving your skin an added incentive to produce this important element is critical.

Not only does this leave you with nicer looking skin, it also has a number of anti-aging benefits as well. Microdermabrasions can work wonders when it comes to reducing the appearance of fine lines, scars, and wrinkles in the skin, since these are often more pronounced in the outer layer of your skin.

It can also help with acne prone skin, clearing out your pores and eliminating blackheads and whiteheads. It’s important to consult with your esthetician first, though – this treatment isn’t effective for everybody. If you’re suffering from acne prone skin, we have a number of treatments available here at Jiva Spa Toronto.

Those who suffer from hyperpigmentation, sun spots, excessively oily skin, and blemishes can also benefit from a microdermabrasion.

Does Microdermabrasion Hurt?

It may sound like it hurts, doesn’t it? Sandblasting your skin???

But don’t worry – it’s nowhere near as bad as it sounds!

Microdermabrasion is a non invasive procedure which is virtually pain free. Some report a slight amount of discomfort during the procedure, and if that’s the case we can reduce the intensity of the treatment for you. However, the vast majority of people who experience microdermabrasion treatment report no pain whatsoever.

Risks Of Microdermabrasion

Once you’ve finished your treatment, you may experience some mild redness or soreness in the first day or two, or slight shedding of skin depending on your skin type. These are natural reactions, and nothing to be concerned with.

It’s a good idea to avoid the sun, tanning beds, or any other excessive heat (hot showers, saunas, etc.) for at least 24 hours after treatment.

Your esthetician will fully discuss the risks and benefits of microdermabrasion with you prior to treatment.

Should I Get A Microdermabrasion?

To find out more about microdermabrasion and whether it’s right for you, contact Jiva Spa Toronto. You’ll get a chance to sit down with one of our experienced estheticians, where you can explain your aesthetic goals and put together a treatment plan that works for you.

Contact us using the information below:

Address:
390 Bloor St W,
Toronto, ON
M5S 1X4

Phone:
(416) 934-0100

Find additional info on: Jiva Spa Toronto - Medi Spa

Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Botox

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Here at Jiva Spa Toronto, we offer many different anti-aging solutions. And since one of the most popular and well-known options is Botox, we offer that as well. Striving to be the best Toronto Botox injection spa, we’ve put together this quick FAQ to help you better understand the risks and benefits of Botox, and whether it’s right for you.

What Is Botox Made Of?

Botox is a dermal injectable with three primary ingredients – human albumin (an element found in human blood), sodium chloride (AKA salt), and the active ingredient – a tiny amount of highly purified botulinum toxin, refined from the bacterial strain clostridium botulinum. Taken in larger doses, this substance is toxic, but in minuscule amounts it can be used therapeutically.

What Is Botox Used For?

Botox has a number of different possible uses. From an aesthetic perspective, Botox is most effective at treating fine lines in the forehead, frown lines around the face, and crow’s feet around the eyes.

Botox has other clinical uses as well. It’s been proven effective to treat migraines, muscular disorders, and certain gastrointestinal disorders. To find out more about these options, consult your physician – Jiva Spa Toronto does not offer Botox treatments for these purposes.

How Does Botox Work?

Botox works by targeting the underlying causes of imperfections in your skin – your muscles. As you frown, squint, laugh, cry, or smile, your face experiences a bit of wear and tear. And over the years, this can add up to those imperfections we all dread.

By injecting Botox, you’re temporarily reducing muscle activity in these areas. This results in a visible smoothing of skin imperfections.

Is Botox Safe?

Botox is one of the most extensively studied medi spa treatments on the market today. There are hundreds of peer-reviewed scientific articles on the safety and effectiveness of Botox, as well as countless clinical trials. If used under the proper supervision, the risks of Botox are very low.

Is There A Generic Brand Of Botox?

No. There are no generic or after-market versions of Botox. Only Botox brand cosmetics are approved for use.

How Long Does A Botox Treatment Take?

The actual injection takes about 10 minutes.

Are There Side Effects?

Side effects for Botox are fairly rare, and generally mild and temporary. The most common side effects reported include eyelid drooping and eyelid swelling, though others have experienced dry mouth, headaches, neck pain, discomfort at the injection site, tiredness, dry eyes, and allergic reactions, among others.

This is not an exhaustive list – your esthetician will fully explain to you the potential risks and side effects prior to your treatment.

Does Botox Hurt?

Most report Botox treatments to be mildly painful, equivalent to a small pinch on the skin. Very few find it intolerable. If you’re particularly sensitive, we can use a topical numbing cream.

How Long Does Botox Last?

Results can last anywhere from 3 to 6 months, depending on the area treated.

How Long Does It Take To Recover?

You can walk out of the spa after receiving your Botox injection and resume your day. The downtime is slim to none. However, you may receive aftercare instructions.

Is Botox Right For Me?

To find out more about Botox and its advantages, contact Jiva Spa Toronto using the contact information below:

Address:
390 Bloor St W,
Toronto, ON
M5S 1X4

Phone:
(416) 934-0100

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Anti-Aging Tips For Women In Their 30s

The post Anti-Aging Tips For Women In Their 30s was originally published on JivaSpa.ca

Let’s face it – women in their 20s don’t often think about how their skin will look when they get older. And if you’re a woman who’s – ahem – no longer in your 20s, you might be able to relate.

Carefree nights of partying, drinking and eating whatever you want, and waking up with last night’s makeup smeared across your pillow may not have any effect right away, but it will later on.

So now that you’ve hit your 30s, your body is cashing all those skin care cheques you deposited over the last decade or so. If you’re one of those women who implemented as many proactive anti-aging solutions for women as you could find, this isn’t the article for you. Your skin is likely already looking better than your harder-partying peers, and you can continue doing what you’ve been already doing for years.

But if you haven’t been as nice to your skin as you could have been, don’t worry! It’s not hopeless – you can still enjoy healthy, youthful looking skin. But you’ll have to change a few things…

Stay Out Of The Sun

The beach is glorious, and the sunshine feels great on your skin after a long, cold winter. Around this time of year we’re all dying for a few kisses from our warm friend in the sky.

But sun exposure can cause your skin to age more rapidly than anything else. If you’re going to go out in the sun, be sure to wear the proper protection – a big floppy sunhat, an outfit that doesn’t expose too much skin, and, most importantly, a strong sunscreen of at least spf30 with zinc oxide.

Build A Skincare Routine

That drugstore-brand facial cleanser may have done the trick when you were younger, but once you hit your 30s it’s time to start taking your skincare routine more seriously, in both morning and night.

While everyone’s skincare needs are different, there are a few consistents. You’ll need a cleanser and a moisturizer at bare minimum.

Your cleanser should include some AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) to encourage exfoliation, and your moisturizer should include antioxidants, some UVA/UVB protection, and other elements to help you meet your specific goals.

Jiva Spa Toronto offers a wide range of different skin care products. If you’re confused about where to start, come on by for a consultation with one of our estheticians.

Create A Spa Routine

A spa like Jiva Spa Toronto has many different options to help you retain your youth well into your 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond.

If you’re not familiar with what spa services can do for your appearance, we can help. Contact us to book a consultation with one of our experienced skincare specialists. We have a wide range of solutions that can help people of any age, gender, or skin type.

You’ll find our contact information below. Contact Jiva Spa Toronto today and take your first step toward healthier, happier looking skin.

Address:
390 Bloor St W,
Toronto, ON
M5S 1X4

Phone:
(416) 934-0100

Find more info on: Jiva Spa Toronto - Medi Spa

Top Anti-Aging Home Remedies

Top Anti-Aging Home Remedies is available on Jiva - Toronto Spa

As an anti aging skin care spa in Toronto, we offer many different options to help you look your best as the years roll on. But those are not the only possible anti-aging solutions.

Below you’ll find a number of different measures you can take at home in order to retain your youthful looks as long as possible.

Wear Sunscreen

This is a big one. The sun will age your skin more than every other factor listed in this article combined!

Sun exposure is the top cause of wrinkles, fine lines, pigmentation changes, reduced elasticity, and much more. There’s a reason why we call certain skin pigmentation changes “sun spots”.

To combat this, avoid sun exposure as much as possible. I know it feels wonderful after such a long winter, but that’s the price you pay to maintain your youth. If you can’t avoid it, at least wear a sunblock with zinc oxide.

If you’re starting to notice sun spots on your skin, it’s time to use a retinol-based cream enriched with vitamin C. This can help reduce the sun’s effects on your skin.

Exfoliate Your Skin

Exfoliation means removing the outermost layer of skin on your face. That may sound painful, but it’s really not – your outermost skin layer is made up entirely of dead skin cells. By exfoliating your skin, you’re removing one of the barriers to whatever product you happen to be using, so as a result your product will be more effective.

A microdermabrasion is one of the best ways to exfoliate your skin, but you can also use a sonic cleansing brush or even a loofah for a more budget-friendly option.

Get The Right Sleep

Do you sleep on your side, or on your stomach? If so, you may be prematurely aging your skin.

When you sleep in these positions, you compress your face against your pillow which can lead to all sorts of skin imperfections, fine lines, wrinkles, and the like.

The solution to this is to sleep on your back, facing up. Not only will this keep your skin from folding, it will also give you clearer skin as you don’t end up rubbing against the bacteria and other impurities on your pillowcase.

Watch Your Posture

If you have a family history of varicose veins in your family, you may want to consider adjusting your sitting posture. By sitting cross-legged, you can put pressure on your veins, which blocks the flow of blood from your legs to your heart. This can cause them to stretch and expand once the blood does pump through, which can lead to the development of spider veins and varicose veins.

Make Sure Your Makeup Matches Your Skin Tone

One of the biggest things that can affect how aged you look is your makeup routine.

Our skin colour tends to change as we get older, so if you’re using the same tone of foundation you were using back in the 90’s, it may be time for a change. Consult a specialist at your local makeup counter for advice here.

While you’re at it, it’s a good idea to tone down eye makeup as you age. Dramatic eye makeup can be fun in your 20s and 30s, but as you age, more neutral hues will look better.

Visit Jiva Spa Toronto

Are you noticing some of the signs of aging, and hoping to halt or even reverse them? If so, Jiva Spa Toronto can help.

Contact us using the information below to book a consultation with one of our experienced skincare professionals. From there you’ll get the chance to explain your goals and desires, and we can put together a treatment plan designed to help you meet your needs.

Address:
390 Bloor St W,
Toronto, ON
M5S 1X4

Phone:
(416) 934-0100

Find additional info on: Jiva Spa Toronto - Medi Spa

Best Lip Injection Clinic In Toronto: What Are Your Options?

Best Lip Injection Clinic In Toronto: What Are Your Options? was first published to Jiva Spa Toronto - Medi Spa

Have you always wanted fuller, more luscious lips? For those of us who weren’t born with lips like Angelina Jolie or Kylie Jenner, there are fortunately plenty of options available at your local beauty spa, like Jiva Spa Toronto.

Here at Jiva, we strive to provide the best lip injection clinic in Toronto, so we have several options for you to choose from. You can read more about them below.

Botox

Botox is probably the most recognizable name in the world of lip injection options. First approved for use in 1989, Botox remains one of the more unique options for injectables.

Botox works by injecting an extremely tiny amount of toxin into your muscles. This temporarily paralyzes them, which has a number of medical uses. Doctors sometimes use Botox injections to treat chronic migraines, excessive sweating, muscular disorders, and some bladder and bowel-related issues.

From a cosmetic perspective, Botox is used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, and can leave you looking noticeably younger. Side effects are rare and generally mild and temporary, but can include mild pain or nausea, headaches, numbness, decreased eyesight, fatigue, swelling, redness, bleeding, or rashes. You may also develop antibodies against the active ingredient in Botox, making future treatments ineffective.

Botox treatments generally last anywhere from three to six months, depending on the individual. It generally takes anywhere from 3 to 7 days to see the full effect of the treatment.

Juvederm

Whereas Botox works by injecting a foreign substance into your body, most dermal injectables don’t work this way. This includes Juvederm.

Rather than paralyzing the muscles like Botox, Juvederm is an injectable filler designed to restore your youthful appearance and smooth out any fine lines and wrinkles.

The active ingredient, hyaluronic acid, is a naturally occurring sugar found in your skin, and as a result the risk of allergic reaction is minuscule. Combining with the moisture in your skin, Juvederm smoothes things out and restores your youth.

Juvederm treatments generally last longer than Botox – depending on the area treated and the specific blend used, it can last up to two years. And because of the nature of the formula, Juvederm takes effect instantly – no need to wait like Botox.

Princess Fillers

Princess is a new brand of dermal filler on the scene, but they’re quickly making a name for themselves. Like Juvederm, Princess brand dermal fillers are based on hyaluronic acid, but they use a different formula.

Princess fillers can be used to replace volume and structure in your face which has been lost as a result of the aging process or due to sun exposure. It’s designed to stimulate collagen production, which simply encourages your skin’s natural healing abilities.

Because Princess hasn’t been on the market as long, it isn’t as well known as the others in this list. However, here at Jiva Spa Toronto we’ve been seeing some great results with our clients who have opted for the Princess route.

We’re now featuring a certified nurse practitioner and medical doctor on staff to administer these treatments, so you can be sure you’re receiving the best and safest treatment possible.

Botox vs. Juvederm vs. Princess

So which option is right for you? How do you know which of these options to choose? It’s different from person to person, based on your specific aesthetic needs and beauty goals.

When you visit Jiva Spa Toronto, you’ll get the chance to consult with one of our expert estheticians who will listen to your concerns and goals, and from there recommend a treatment plan designed to achieve them. This may include a combination of different treatments listed in this article, as well as some of our other treatments if necessary.

During your initial consultation, we’ll carefully evaluate your areas of concern and discuss all of your options to ensure that you’re receiving the most effective solution for your needs. Contact Jiva Spa Toronto today to book your consultation using the contact information below:

Address:
390 Bloor St W,
Toronto, ON
M5S 1X4

Phone:
(416) 934-0100

See more information on: Jiva - Toronto Beauty Spa

What Is Micro Skin Needling?

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Have you heard of microneedling?

Also known as micro skin needling, collagen induction therapy (CIT), or percutaneous collagen induction (PCI), microneedling is a skin rejuvenation procedure that’s on the cutting edge of modern beauty treatments. Here at Jiva Spa Toronto, we’re excited to introduce this new service and show you how it can help you achieve your beauty goals.

First, let’s talk about how the procedure works.

What Is Micro Skin Needling?

Microneedling has its roots in a much older procedure called mesotherapy, which began in the 1950’s. Pioneered by Dr. Michael Pistor, misotherapy is a procedure that injects plant extracts, homeopathic medicine, pharmaceuticals, vitamins, and other ingredients into the face in order to break up groupings of fat cells. Several professionals expanded on this technique, including professionals from Canada and South Africa.

During a microneedling treatment, your esthetician will apply a topical anaesthetic or numbing cream to your face, reducing discomfort. Trom there, they’ll use a dermal roller, a device covered with tiny, shallow needles, causing a tiny, almost imperceptible tear in your skin. Your body recognizes this and triggers the growth of collagen production.

In non-scientific terms, microneedling can help repair scars from acne or injuries, fill in wrinkles or laugh lines, and give your skin an overall more youthful appearance. And because no lasers are involved, it can be more beneficial than laser-based treatments like an IPL photofacial for certain skin types.

We usually use microneedling on the face, but it can be used anywhere on your body where you have skin (which is everywhere!)

Risks Of Micro Skin Needling

Microneedling is generally considered a low risk procedure. Because your skin remains intact and no injection is made, the recovery time is very low.

Because you don’t experience any injection into your skin, there is virtually zero risk of an allergic reaction. However, you may experience some soreness, redness, or inflammation. These reactions are rare, and usually fade after a day or so.

Prior to treatment, we’ll explain to you the full risks and benefits of microneedling so you can make an informed decision.

Is Microneedling Right For Me?

If you’re considering a microneedling treatment, contact Jiva Spa Toronto to book an initial consultation with one of our experienced skincare experts. You’ll get the chance to sit down and explain your aesthetic goals, and from there we can help you understand your options, the risks and benefits, and your best course of action.

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What Is A Vampire Facelift?

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What comes to mind when you hear the name “vampire facelift”?

It might sound scary, but it’s really not. Also known as a plasma facial. PRP treatment, or platelet rich plasma skin rejuvenation, this procedure is known by many names. Made popular by Kim Kardashian, it’s a fairly new procedure which few spas offer, so you may not be aware of its benefits and how it can help you achieve the look you’re hoping for.

Jiva Spa Toronto is proud to have introduced this service. Below you’ll find more information on this innovative beauty treatment and what you can expect.

What Is A Vampire Facelift?

A vampire facelift happens in three phases, and it’s used in combination with a dermal filler like Princess or Juvederm.

During the first phase, your esthetician will use a dermal filler to shape your face in the way that accomplishes your beauty goals – whether that’s fewer wrinkles or laugh lines, reduce jowls or other areas of sagging skin, tighten your cheeks, enhance your lips, or much more.

(For more information on Princess fillers, click here.)

Once you’re satisfied with the shape of your face, we begin the “vampire” portion.

An on-staff physician or registered nurse will extract a small amount of your blood – about two teaspoons’ worth. From there, we treat the extracted blood using a centrifuge. That isolates the natural platelets found in your blood, hence the name “platelet rich plasma”. By activating the natural healing power of these platelets, we can trigger new blood flow and collagen production to your face.

Finally, we use an ultrafine needle as well as numbing cream (relatively painless) to inject these platelets back into your face. This awakens your face’s dormant stem cells, tricking them into think there’s been an injury and beginning the process of generating younger tissue.

The result is skin that is literally younger, more youthful looking, and ongoing improvements that can last for up to 2-3 months, along with results that can last for up to 2 years.

Risks Of A Vampire Facelift

Because it’s your own blood that’s being used, there is no risk of allergic reactions from the vampire facelift treatment portion. However, you may experience mild skin irritation, including swelling, bruising, itching, or discoloration. These symptoms are rare and usually temporary.

If you’ve had a reaction to Juvederm, Princess, or other dermal fillers in the past, you may experience them during this procedure as well. Reactions to such procedures can include redness, itching, swelling, or small bumps. These symptoms are also rare, and almost always clear up in a week or so.

Should I Get A Vampire Facelift?

The Vampire Facelift, of course, is not for everybody. It all depends on your beauty and aesthetic goals, medical history, current health state, and more.

To find out more about whether a vampire facelift is for you, contact Jiva Spa Toronto to book a consultation with one of our on-staff medical professionals. You’ll get a chance to describe what you’re hoping to achieve aesthetically, and from there we can lay out a treatment plan that fits your need.

Contact Jiva Spa Toronto to book your beauty consultation today.

Find more information on: Toronto Health Spa - Jiva

Waxing Vs. Laser Hair Removal: Which Should You Choose?

Read more on: Toronto Beauty Spa - Jiva Spa

When it comes to the battle for soft, smooth, hairless skin, there are three main competitors: laser hair removal, waxing, and shaving.

You can shave at home, and we’ve talked before about the benefits and drawbacks of shaving. That’s not the purpose of this article.

No, instead let’s talk about waxing and laser hair removal. These are the two most popular hair removal methods you can find at any health and beauty spa, and Jiva Spa Toronto is no different.

But what are the benefits of each? What are the drawbacks? And for your own hair removal needs, which should you choose?

These are the questions this article will answer for you. We’ll compare waxing and laser hair removal from several different angles to help you better understand the best solution for you.

How Do They Work?

Laser hair removal works by shining an intense pulsing light at a specific wavelength on your hair to damage the follicle and inhibit growth. Meanwhile, waxing works by tearing the hair out by the roots using hot sticky wax.

How Many Treatments Are Needed?

You can be completely hairless after one treatment of both waxing and laser hair removal, but the hair will grow back.

In the case of laser hair removal, it can take between 4 and 8 treatments on a particular area before you can experience permanent hair removal.

With waxing, hair generally does grow back lighter and finer. However, it’s rare to achieve permanent hairlessness through waxing. You’ll need to go get waxed every time you want to be hair-free.

How Much Does It Cost?

Laser hair removal and waxing each have a different cost depending on the part of your body you’d like to treat. But while waxing is generally less expensive per treatment than laser hair removal, the fact that laser hair removal provides a permanent solution often makes it more cost effective.

It depends on your needs, though. If you only want to be hair free for a certain occasion, like a camping trip or safari where you won’t have access to your regular hair removal routine, waxing can be a good choice. But if you’re hoping for a more permanent option, laser hair removal is the more cost effective option.

How Much Does It Hurt?

When you wax your body, you’re tearing your hair out from the root. This is naturally a bit of a painful experience. While subsequent treatments certainly become less intense, there’s no doubt that waxing is more painful than laser hair removal.

Most people who have had laser hair removal report a mild tingling or pinching sensation, which nearly everyone finds completely bearable. And in case it does turn out to be too much, your esthetician can reduce the intensity of the laser (though this may reduce its effectiveness and require additional treatments).

What Are The Side Effects?

After waxing, you may experience redness and inflammation, as well as minor cuts. You may also find an increase in small acne growth depending on the area treated. And as your hair returns, you may encounter some ingrown hairs.

Laser hair removal can sometimes cause itchiness in the area treated. This sometimes manifests itself in red, swollen skin. In rare cases, the laser can cause minor burns to the skin. We recommend staying out of the sun for a couple of weeks prior to laser hair removal treatment as well.

Who Does It Work For?

Waxing works on pretty much anyone who has hair. You may want to avoid it if you have sensitive skin, or skin that’s prone to tearing. It can also exacerbate rosacea or enlarged capillaries.

Laser hair removal is most effective on people with dark hair and light skin, since the laser’s light is absorbed more easily this way.

How Do You Prepare For Treatment?

In order to get waxed, you need to have at least a couple weeks’ worth of growth in that area. This can be unappealing for some.

With laser hair removal, it’s best to arrive freshly shaven. This ensures the laser is absorbed by the hair follicle, not by the part that’s peeking out from the top of your skin.

What Areas Of Your Body Can You Treat?

These two are pretty close here. Both waxing and laser hair removal can be used to treat just about any part of your body.

There are certain cases, however, where one or the other won’t be recommended, most of which have already been covered above.

Should You Get Laser Hair Removal?

To find out more about laser hair removal, waxing, and the many other health and beauty solutions available, contact Jiva Spa Toronto.

You’ll get a chance to speak with one of our experienced hair removal experts to understand the risks and benefits of waxing, laser hair removal, and any other options you may have. From there, we’ll put together a treatment plan designed to help you reach your cosmetic goals.

Contact Jiva Spa Toronto today, and empower yourself with the knowledge you need to get the skin you’ve always dreamed of.

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What Is A Brazilian Laser Hair Removal Treatment?

Read more on: Jiva - Toronto Beauty Spa

Here at Jiva Spa Toronto, we offer several different hair removal treatment options. This includes threading for facial hair, and waxing and laser hair removal for the entire body.

How you decide to keep (or not keep, as the case may be) your body hair is up to you. But if you want to remove hair from certain parts of your body, we’re here to help.

One of the more common hair removal treatments is the Brazilian. And if you’ve never heard of this treatment before, it’s certainly one of the more interesting ones.

In this article, I’ll talk about the Brazilian. We’ll look at Brazilian waxing and Brazilian laser hair removal treatment, and discuss the pros and cons of each, as well as the entire procedure in the first place. At the end, you should have a better understanding of the Brazilian.

Of course, if you have more questions about this treatment after you’re done with this article, you can always speak to one of our hair removal specialists.

What Is A Brazilian Hair Removal?

A Brazilian hair removal treatment involves removing all or most of the hair from your pubic region. If you’re the type who wants to have a hair-free pubic region, this treatment is great because it allows you to avoid any razor burn, ingrown hairs, or nicks and cuts from the shaving process. It also allows you to avoid stubble.

You can accomplish a Brazilian through waxing and laser hair removal. There are benefits and drawbacks to both options.

Brazilian Wax

Waxing is the process of removing your hair from the roots. It provides a longer lasting semi-permanent hair removal.

During a Brazilian wax, you’ll have a layer of hot wax applied to your skin. This clings to your hair. Then a sheet of special paper is pressed on top of it, sticking to the wax. When your esthetician pulls the paper away, your hair goes with it. We use a different wax during a Brazilian than we do on other parts of your body because of the sensitivity in the area.

Because waxing is not a completely permanent hair removal solution, it can be useful for people who want to be hairless for a special occasion. The results can last for up to 3-4 weeks, but it varies from person to person. However, your hair often comes back softer and finer after waxing. Multiple treatments can lead to this being a more permanent solution.

One of the obvious drawbacks to a Brazilian wax is the pain – waxing is considered the most painful hair removal option. While most find it tolerable, in a sensitive area like the pubic areait can be tough. However, most people report that the amount of pain decreases with subsequent treatments.

You also need to have significant hair growth before you can remove the hair via waxing, which is an unappealing option to some.

Brazilian Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal works by shining a high powered light on the hair to be removed. This destroys the hair follicle, causing permanent reduction in hair growth.

A Brazilian laser hair removal works in much the same way as it does on the rest of your body. One of the main benefits is the fact that results are permanent – after a certain number of sessions, your hair won’t be coming back! As a result, it’s also cheaper – you’ll have to keep coming back for waxing, while laser hair removal lasts much longer.

It is also significantly less painful than waxing. While some report a small amount of pain, it’s comparable to a tiny pinch. The intensity of the laser can also be adjusted if you’re experiencing too much pain.

Benefits of Brazilian Hair Removal

Whether you decide to go with Brazilian laser hair removal, waxing, or just plain old shaving, a Brazilian has its benefits.

From a hygiene perspective it can be easier to take care of. And it can reduce your risk of certain sexually transmitted infections (though it won’t cure existing cases).

But most enjoy a hairless pubic region for the aesthetics. Women who enjoy the beach can wear more modern bikini styles without having to consider their current level of personal grooming. And if you’re choosing a piece of sexy lingerie for you and your partner to enjoy, a hairless pubic area can make things even sexier.

Contact Jiva Spa Toronto

To find out more about Brazilian hair removal, and the many other health and beauty solutions available, contact Jiva Spa Toronto.

You’ll get a chance to speak with one of our experienced hair removal experts to understand the risks and benefits of waxing, laser hair removal, and any other options you may have. From there, we’ll put together a treatment plan designed to help you reach your cosmetic goals.

Contact Jiva Spa Toronto today, and take your first step toward smoother, softer, sexier skin!

Find additional information on: JivaSpa.ca

How Can An Anti-Aging Facial Help You Retain Your Youth?

Read more on: Anti-Aging and Beauty Spa - Jiva

Here at Jiva Spa Toronto, we have a wide range of different anti-aging treatments you can use to stave off the effects of aging and retain your beauty well into your 60’s and beyond.

But sometimes there are so many options that it can make your head spin! After all, we have microdermabrasions, skin remodeling, IPL photofacials, Botox, Juvederm, and more. Where do you start? How do you know which to choose?

Don’t worry. One of the main reasons we made this blog is to help alleviate some of the confusion around our services so you can better understand their risks and benefits.

In this article we’ll talk about one of our top anti-aging facial treatments – the Firming Facial. We’ll explain the procedure so you can better understand what to expect. And we’ll help you understand how you can use it in combination with some of our other anti aging treatments to get the best results.

Of course, if you’re ever confused about what to do, no need to worry. You can have a consultation with one of our experienced anti aging skincare specialists who will help you understand the risks and benefits of each of our treatments.

Anti Aging Facial Treatment

The Jiva Spa Toronto Firming Facial treatment is designed for – what else? – firming up your skin. It’s perfect for people between the ages of 35 and 50 who are experiencing premature aging. Your skin may be showing the signs of aging, but because it is still young it can respond well to this treatment.

The benefits of the Firming Facial treatment include a more youthful look. If you’re experiencing sagging skin around your mouth or cheeks, or under your eyes, the Firming Facial can help reduce these effects. It can also reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other skin imperfections as a result of the aging process.

The secret behind this process is our special facial blend which includes vitamin C, collagen, and antioxidants. This helps exfoliate and nourish your skin.

After the anti aging facial treatment is complete, you’ll get to enjoy a nice relaxing massage. Then you’ll get a thermo heat mask which, while feeling great, boosts the effects of the entire treatment.

At the end of it, you’ll walk away with firm, healthy, and strong skin, and a more youthful appearance

Combining It With Other Anti Aging Treatments

If you are in your 60s the Firming Facial can still help. However, in general, the older your skin is, the more treatment you’ll need to achieve a youthful look. As a result, we often suggest pairing your Firming Facial with other treatments.

In particular, we may suggest a skin remodeling treatment. This treatment reduces many signs of aging, including laugh lines, crow’s feet, and worry lines. At the same time, it tones your face muscles, lifts your cheeks, tightens your jaw line, and rejuvenates your neck line.

Using patented Silhouet-Tone technology, the skin remodeling treatment is one of the most advanced non-invasive anti aging treatments available today. By attacking your problematic areas at their source, this treatment provides more permanent results than many other similar treatments. And because there’s no recovery time, you can receive this treatment at any time without having to worry about taking time off work.

For more on the skin remodeling treatment, click here. We’ll probably write a blog on this treatment in the future as well.

Contact Jiva Spa Toronto

To find out more about the Firming Facial, and the many other health and beauty solutions available, contact Jiva Spa Toronto.

You’ll get a chance to speak with one of our experienced estheticians or medical staff members to understand the risks and benefits of treatments like a Firming Facial, skin remodeling, and any other options you may have. From there, we’ll put together a treatment plan designed to help you reach your cosmetic goals.

Contact Jiva Spa Toronto today, and take your first step toward healthier, more radiant skin!

Find additional info on: JivaSpa.ca - Nutrition and Beauty

What’s The Difference Between Botox And Juvederm?

Find more on: Toronto Health Spa - Jiva

Getting older is inescapable. But, when exactly does skin aging start? And is there anything out there to help delay the skins’ aging process?

Innovative Skin Care

Today, anti aging face treatments have dramatically advanced with the introduction of new procedures. By stepping up with more effective active ingredients, a result-focused product is born. These procedures can produce visible changes to your skin for a variety of conditions like fine lines, crow’s feet, acne scarring, and other skin imperfections.

Two of the most popular ones are Botox and Juvederm, and each have their benefits and drawbacks. However, these are not over-the-counter solutions. You’ll need to talk with a professional skin care specialist.

But at the same time, you won’t need to go under the knife – which is nice since surgery can be both expensive and frightening. Because who doesn’t want to age as gracefully as possible without surgery?

Both Botox and Juvederm are similar in many ways. Here’s some more about these two injectable anti aging solutions so you can find out how they’ll work for you.

What is Botox?

Botox is an injectable anti aging facial treatment designed to reduce skin imperfections. It’s actually one of the most popular cosmetic treatments available, with more than six million Botox treatments performed each year. It’s a safe and mild form of a naturally occurring toxin. Injecting this helps your skin relax by actually paralyzing the muscles in your face.

Botox treatments are temporary, but do generally last for up to 6 months. As a result, you’ll need to maintain it with regular touch-ups. Treatments are quick, though, usually lasting only ten minutes or so.

When it comes to dealing with crow’s feet, frown lines, acne scars, and other skin imperfections, Botox can be quite effective. You’ll see results immediately, but sometimes it takes up to two weeks for the full effect of your Botox treatment to take hold.

Some report minor discomfort from Botox treatments, but because they take such little time it’s never a big deal.

There is research on using Botox to treat some medical issues as well, including migraines and some bladder and muscular disorders, though this treatment is normally prescribed by a doctor.

What Is Juvederm?

Juvederm is an injectable facial filler made of hyaluronic acid. This acid occurs naturally in your skin, muscles, and tendons, so your body will generally welcome its presence.

The Juvederm formula is injected into your skin in the areas you’re finding problematic. It’s great for softening deep wrinkles and smoothing hollowed out areas in your face as a result of aging, acne, or life in general.

Two of the main benefits of Juvederm are its long-lasting effects and its versatility. You can use Juvederm treatments to repair any imperfections in your skin, including lines around your mouth and forehead and acne scarring. You can also use it to give your skin a tighter look, restore any sagging, and enhance the shape and size of your lips. These results can last up to a year.

Juvederm is not without its side effects, though. You may face swelling, bruising, and small lumps appearing after treatment. These are almost always short-lived and extremely mild.

What's The Difference Between Botox And Juvederm?

Botox and Juvederm can both be used in many areas of your face to defy aging. The main difference between these two treatments, though, is how they work.

Botox is used for relaxing the muscles in your face, which can give you a more youthful appearance. Meanwhile, Juvederm fills in gaps and smooths out hollowed out areas. They may seem similar, but here at Jiva Spa Toronto we will recommend one or the other based on an individual’s needs.

Both of these procedures have been carefully studied for decades before they were released to the market as a whole, though, so side effects are rare and usually mild. Botox is one of the safest anti-aging treatments ever used, while Juvederm is made of a naturally occurring substance in your body so it is even safer. That said, it’s always good to consult an experienced skincare expert to understand the risks, benefits, and options.

You may want to speak with your doctor before undergoing Botox or Juvederm treatments as well, especially if you have a history of sensitive skin or allergic reactions to beauty products.

Contact Jiva Spa Toronto

To find out more about Botox, Juvederm, and the many other health and beauty solutions available, contact Jiva Spa Toronto. You’ll get a chance to speak with one of our experienced estheticians or medical staff members to understand the risks and benefits. From there, we’ll put together a treatment plan designed to help you reach your cosmetic goals.

Contact Jiva Spa Toronto today, and take your first step toward healthier, more radiant skin!

Find more info on: Beauty Spa Experts - Jiva Spa

Here’s What To Expect From A Facial

See more on: Beauty Spa in Toronto - Jiva Spa

Even if you only know a tiny bit about the world of health and beauty esthetics, you’ve probably heard of facials before. They’re one of the most common beauty treatments out there and for good reason. People have been using facials in one form or another for thousands of years and they’re still a great option today.

Here at Jiva Spa Toronto, we pride ourselves on giving the best facials in town. But if you’ve never had a facial before, you might be worried because you don’t know what to expect.

This article should help clear up any misconceptions you may have about facial treatments.

Where Do Facials Come From?

Many different cultures all over the world have used facial treatments to improve their outward appearance, reduce the signs of aging, and enjoy healthier skin. Some of the earliest examples we have of facial treatments come from ancient Egypt, where people began documenting their skincare practices as early as 3000 BC.

The famous Cleopatra used clay from the Dead Sea as well as egg whites to keep her skin looking youthful. There are also examples of facial-like treatments in China’s Tang Dynasty (around 700 AD) and the early days of the Roman Empire (1st century AD).

Why Are Facials Important?

Facials help treat a number of common problems that don’t get addressed otherwise. This is true even for people who live healthy lifestyles with exercise, a good diet, and a smart beauty regime.

Facials can help your skin make the transition from season to season. Drier weather in the winter can leave your skin cracked and damaged, but a facial can help you avoid that. As well, when the weather gets warm again you can end up breaking out due to increased oil in your skin. A facial can help there too.

If you’re the type who’s prone to acne in the first place, an acne facial can help you reduce the effects. And if you’re starting to notice the signs of aging, an anti-aging facial can help you retain a youthful appearance as well.

How Often Should You Get A Facial?

The answer to this question really depends on your skin type and the time of year. If you’re prone to dry skin, for example, you should see your esthetician more often during the winter. And likewise, those with oily skin will benefit from more trips to the spa during the summer.

As a general rule, it helps to get a facial once a month or so. But we’ll give you a more specific recommendation based on your unique needs.

What Are The Benefits Of A Facial?

Again, this depends. Each person has different beauty goals and skin needs, so the benefits are very personal.

But in general, facial treatments can leave you with smoother, firmer, softer, more radiant skin, better hydration, and reduced acne breakouts.

Are There Any Risks?

Facial treatments are considered among the most routine beauty treatments out there, and as a result negative side effects are both rare and mild.

The most common side effect is a bit of redness or blotchiness. This usually fades within a day or so at most. This is especially common if you’re getting a facial with extractions, like the acne facial. As a result, it’s best to get a facial at least a couple of days before a major event where you need your skin to look its best.

The extractions can also be somewhat painful depending on the nature of your acne, but this is very mild and tolerable to most.

There is also a slight chance you may have an allergic reaction to the products used during your facial. If you have any known allergies, tell your esthetician before your facial treatment.

Because a facial involves exfoliation, deep cleansing, and removal of the top layer of dead skin cells on your skin, it can sometimes make your skin look a little worse before it gets better. But a day or two after your treatment, you should be able to look in the mirror and enjoy beautiful, radiant skin.

More Information

As always, here at Jiva Spa Toronto we’re happy to help you make the right choice when it comes to your skin care. A facial may or may not be the best option for you to meet your goals, and our experienced estheticians can help you understand your needs.

Contact Jiva Spa Toronto today and book an appointment with an esthetician for a FREE skincare consultation. You’ll get a chance to explain your goals and desires, and from there we’ll help you put together a treatment plan designed to meet them.

See additional information on: JivaSpa.ca - Nutrition and Beauty

Your Questions On Eyebrow Threading, Answered

Your Questions On Eyebrow Threading, Answered is available on Anti-Aging and Beauty Spa - Jiva

There are many different ways to remove unwanted body hair, but one of the most unique is eyebrow threading.

While it’s been practiced all over the world for centuries, it’s a fairly new phenomenon here in Canada. So if you have some unwanted body hair and are wondering if threading is right for you, read on!

First Things First. What Is Eyebrow Threading Anyway?

Eyebrow threading is a technique used to remove excess hair from the area around the eyebrows. While we can’t pin down a specific date, most agree that it has its origins in Central Asia, near modern India, and has been practiced for thousands of years.

Less painful than waxing, less invasive than laser hair removal, quicker than tweezing, and longer lasting than shaving, many people feel eyebrow threading is the ideal method of shaping your eyebrows.

How Does Eyebrow Threading Work?

Threading works by twisting two cotton threads together. When this is done over a hair, the threads grab onto the hair. Then when the thread is pulled away, the hair is pulled with it.

Does Eyebrow Threading Hurt?

Because you’re pulling your hairs out by the root, it can cause mild discomfort. The feeling is no worse, however, than plucking your eyebrows, less painful than laser hair removal, and significantly less painful than waxing.

Can I Get Other Areas Threaded Too?

In theory, you can use threading on any part of your body. But because the process works by targeting individual hairs, it’s not efficient to use it on areas with a larger amount of hair, like your legs or underarms. It’s mostly used for eyebrows, the upper lip, chin, cheeks, or neck where unwanted hair tends to be sparser.

Is Threading Better Than Other Hair Removal Methods?

Because threading is so precise, it can be more effective at treating smaller areas. It’s also easier to get elegant brow curves which frame your face through threading than by any other means of hair removal.

But the drawback to it being so precise is that doing it by yourself can lead to removing the wrong hairs, leaving gaps in your brows that you didn’t want. Of course, the eyebrow threading experts here at Jiva Spa Toronto are trained to avoid such errors.

Of course, it’s also less painful than waxing. Because waxing can often tear at your skin as well as the hairs it’s removing, it can cause irritation as well as increased pain. But threading’s precision allows you to target just the hairs while avoiding the skin around it.

And shaving is far from ideal on a woman’s face. While it’s a myth that shaved hairs grow back thicker, they often appear thicker because the smooth, tapered end has been cut so when they grow back the thickest part grows out first. This can leave an appearance of actual stubble, which is not something any lady wants to deal with!

Is Threading Okay If I Have Acne?

Yes, threading is fine for people with acne. In fact, threading is among the best facial treatments to use for those with acne. If you’re unsure, though, you can always come in for a consultation first.

Is Threading Okay If I Have Sensitive Skin?

Yes. Because threading is so much less invasive than other hair removal methods, it’s perfectly safe for sensitive skin. You might get a bit of redness around the area, but this should disappear after an hour or so. If you have extra sensitive skin, let us know.

How Should I Prepare For Eyebrow Threading?

Just make sure your hairs are above the skin. The fuller your brows are at this point, the better – that way we can see their natural shape and give you the best recommendation for nicely shaped brows.

Is Eyebrow Threading Right For Me?

If you’re still asking yourself this question after reading this article, that’s okay! Contact Jiva Spa Toronto and we’ll help you understand the benefits and drawbacks to eyebrow threading compared to every other hair removal method, and recommend the best beauty treatment plan to meet your goals.

Read more information on: Toronto Spa - Jiva

Skincare Tips For People With Sensitive Skin

Skincare Tips For People With Sensitive Skin was first published to Beauty Spa in Toronto - Jiva Spa

A group of researchers conducted a survey on skin types across the United States, with results published in the International Journal of Dermatology. They found that, of the nearly 1000 people surveyed, about 44% had either sensitive or very sensitive skin.

Women had it more than men (about 51% vs about 38%), but there were no significant differences accounting for age, ethnicity, or geographic location.

The point here is that sensitive skin is a common condition in today’s world. If you have sensitive skin yourself, you may have tried several different skincare treatments and gotten mixed results because of the nature of your skin.

This can be frustrating, since a well-meaning recommendation from a friend can lead to a rash, blotchiness, acne, itchiness, flaking, and other irritations. What’s a gal to do?

Follow some of these tips for people with sensitive skin! You can also come in for a facial treatment for sensitive skin at our spa – but more on that later.

Test The Products You Use

When you’re trying a new skincare product or routine, test it out on a small patch of your skin first. IT’s best to do this in an inconspicuous area – not your face.

Treat your skin with this new product, and then wait for 48 hours. If you notice a reaction, you’ll be glad you took the time to test it first! If not, you’re in the clear.

Moisturize

This is true for any skin type, but is especially true for those with sensitive skin.

Along with sensitive skin often comes dry skin, especially during the winter months. Using a natural moisturizer that suits your skin will help you lock in moisture, keeping your skin happier, healthier, and more radiant.

Avoid The Sun

I know that isn’t much of a concern this time of year, but as the snow begins to melt away you may be tempted to don your nicest bathing suit and soak up as many rays as you can in your backyard. And while that may feel good, too much sunshine can be harmful.

This is especially true for those with sensitive skin – the Sun’s rays can lead to rashes and irritations, sunburns, and of course the long-term threat of skin cancer.

Avoid Alcohol-Based Toners

Alcohol-based toners can do a great job of helping cleanse your face, especially if you have acne-prone skin. But these toners will irritate your sensitive skin, giving you the exact opposite of what you were hoping for.

Instead, try an alcohol-free toner. We have several options available here at Jiva Spa Toronto for you to choose from.

Watch What You Eat

Often, people with sensitive skin will experience flare-ups in symptoms like blotchiness, acne, dryness, or other irritations depending on the foods they eat.

Some common culprits include dairy, peanuts, tree nuts (like almonds, pecans, walnuts, or Brazil nuts), eggs, soy, gluten/wheat, and shellfish. If you find yourself with flare-ups more often than you’d like, consider cutting one of these out of your diet for a few weeks.

If, at the end, you notice an improvement in your skin, try re-introducing it into your diet. If the flare-ups return, it’s a good bet that this is one of the things causing your problems.

Drink More Water

This is true for any skin type – drinking more water keeps your entire body hydrated, including your skin. And since sensitive skin is more prone to drying out than other skin, it’s more important that you remain hydrated.

Get A Sensitive Skin Facial

Here at Jiva Spa Toronto, we offer a facial treatment specifically for those with sensitive skin. If you end up with flare-ups from other spa services, the sensitive skin facial may be for you.

Give us a call to book your FREE skincare consultation and find out how you can get the healthiest, most radiant looking skin possible.

Read additional information on: Jiva Spa Toronto - Medi Spa

7 Key Laser Hair Removal Tips

Read more on: Toronto Beauty Spa - Jiva Spa

Laser hair removal can be an excellent solution for removing unwanted body hair in a more permanent fashion. It’s longer lasting than shaving, less painful than waxing, and can leave your body looking as smooth and hair-free as both of them.

But it isn’t a magical treatment. There are a few things you need to know before coming in for treatment, whether you want a small area like your underarms or a brazilian, or you want full body laser hair removal. Read on to find out some of the things you’ll need to know before getting your laser hair treatment.

Stay Out Of The Sun

You need to stay out of the sun for at least four weeks before coming in for a laser hair removal treatment. The reason for this is because laser hair removal works best with dark hair and light skin. This is because the laser’s light is automatically absorbed by the darkest thing nearby – your hair.

If your skin is darker because of a tan or because of a naturally darker pigment, you may not be able to experience the same results.

This is true also for tanning beds, spray tans, tanning lotions, and anything else that darkens the pigment of your skin.

Make sure to avoid the sun as much as possible after your treatment as well. If it can’t be helped, be sure to wear a sunscreen with a high SPF factor.

Make Sure You Shave Before Coming In

Unlike waxing, which needs a certain amount of hair to “grab on” to before treatment, you need to come in clean shaven before laser hair removal.

And speaking of which, if you’re planning on getting a laser hair removal treatment, you should not have waxed that area recently. After all, the laser targets your hair follicle, and waxing removes your hair follicle. It’s hard to target something that isn’t there!

Set Aside The Right Amount Of Time

Laser hair removal can be a bit of a slow process. If you want to treat a small area, like your upper lip or bikini line, your appointment will only take about fifteen minutes.

Meanwhile, a larger area, like a full leg or a man’s chest or back, can take upwards of two hours to complete.

Be Consistent!

In a perfect world, one laser hair removal treatment would be enough to remove all your unwanted body hair for good. But unfortunately it doesn’t work that way.

In order to get the best results, you’ll need to come in for treatment every four to six weeks on average, depending on the level of growth you have.

This gives the dead hair follicles enough time to fall out on their own and be refreshed for the next appointment.

And they do need to fall out on their own. Plucking or waxing is a bad idea, because it gets in the way of the process. You can feel free to shave, though.

One Body Part At A Time

While it may be tempting to get the entire process done and over with early on, your body can only safely absorb a certain amount of the laser’s beam.

This, and the time-consuming nature of the process, is why we suggest treating individual parts of your body at a time.

Proper After-Care Is Key

So as we already said, don’t wax or tweeze after your laser hair removal sessions, and avoid the sun if you can.

You’ll also need to avoid any scented products, especially deodorants and perfumes. These can irritate your skin, which becomes more sensitive after a laser hair removal session. Hot showers can have the same effect.

Laser Hair Removal Doesn’t Get 100% Of Your Hair

If you’re hoping for skin as smooth as when you first drag a razor over it, you may be slightly disappointed. There is always a limited amount of hair regrowth, but the hair that does come back is isolated, faint, and largely unnoticeable.

Most people express satisfaction with the level of hairlessness they can achieve through laser hair removal.

More Questions? Call Us!

If you’d like to learn more about laser hair removal treatments and whether they’re right for you, contact Jiva Spa Toronto today. You’ll get a chance to chat with one of our hair removal specialists who will help you better understand the process and your options.

Find more information on: Jiva - Toronto Beauty Spa

PRP Vampire Lift Facial Treatment

The blog post PRP Vampire Lift Facial Treatment was first published to Jiva Spa Toronto - Medi Spa

Plasma facial. PRP treatment. Platelet rich plasma skin rejuvenation. Or simply the vampire facial procedure. This beauty treatment is known by many names.

But by these or any other names, this facial treatment is the latest in modern beauty enhancing technology designed to keep your skin looking healthy and beautiful.

Made famous by Kim Kardashian, the vampire facial uses your own blood to stimulate the collagen and elastin in your skin, leaving it smoother, clearer, and more even.

First, we’ll draw a small amount of blood – less than a tablespoon. Then we’ll isolate the platelets from that blood and activate their inherent healing properties. These properties are usually only triggered when you experience an injury, and they're designed to help your skin heal.

We’ll then inject the platelets into the skin on your face using a very small needle. This allows you to take advantage of the healing properties of your own blood to rejuvenate your skin.

If you’re experiencing uneven skin tones, sagging or bags under your eyes and cheeks, or grey colouration, a vampire facial can help. The treatment works by using platelet-rich plasma, taken from your own blood, and adding it to the skin on your face. The result is flawless, spectacular looking skin that looks and feels fabulous.

Restoring the collagen and elastin in the skin on your face, you’ll walk away looking years younger and with a new glow to your skin you’ve never seen before.

If you’re curious about the vampire facial and would like to know more about whether this unique facial treatment is right for you, contact Jiva Spa Toronto for a free skincare consultation. We’ll help you understand your options based on your unique needs and give you a treatment plan that will bring your skin the best results.

See more information on: Jiva Spa Toronto - Medi Spa

Princess Facial Dermal Fillers

Princess Facial Dermal Fillers was originally published on Toronto Health Spa - Jiva

Have you ever dreamed about taking your beauty back in time and smoothing away the signs of aging? With Princess®, we offer you the possibility of making it happen – in a natural and safe way. Princess injectable gels are specially developed for simple and non-surgical beauty treatments.

Princess brand injectables are hyaluronic acid-based fillers that replace volume and structure in your face, rejuvenating what was lost through aging or environmental factors. By stimulating collagen production, you’ll walk away with a more youthful look.

Princess products are designed in Austria to be as pure as possible, adhering to the highest safety standards. The result is a gentle, hypoallergenic product of non-animal origin.

You’ll notice an immediate difference after your first treatment with Princess dermal facial fillers.

Here at Jiva Spa Toronto, all Princess treatments are administered by a registered nurse and are available for consultations for all non-surgical enhancements and injectables.

Are Princess Facial Fillers Right For You?

If you’re considering anti-aging solutions, you may be wondering whether Princess dermal facial fillers are the best solution to help you meet your beauty needs. After all, there are many different choices when it comes to medi spa services, some of which may seem similar at first glance.

How do you know where to start?

If so, contact Jiva Spa Toronto today for a consultation. You’ll get a chance to sit down with one of our experienced anti-aging solution specialists and get clarity on how you can best meet your needs.

See more information on: Beauty Spa Experts - Jiva Spa

How An Eye Spa Treatment Can Help Get Rid Of Bags Under Your Eyes

How An Eye Spa Treatment Can Help Get Rid Of Bags Under Your Eyes is courtesy of Jiva - Toronto Beauty Spa

In the morning, we don’t always look our best. Flopping around all night in bed can leave you with wild hair and a smushed face.

Of course, lots of us get the dreaded bags under the eyes as well. This is one of the most common beauty-related issues many people face. But where do these dark circles come from? And what can you do about it? Read on to find out!

(Spoiler alert: an eye spa treatment can help!)

What Causes Bags Under The Eyes?

While some call them dark circles, they aren’t always dark. Sometimes, the area under the eyes is just swollen or puffy. This is a result of fluid or fat building up in that area.

Why is it accumulating there? This is a natural part of the aging process, but it can also be triggered by several environmental causes. This includes a high sodium diet, lack of sleep, and dehydration. If you’re experiencing bags under your eyes, try addressing one of these three factors in your life.

But while these can help, sometimes you need to bring out the big guns. Here are some of the most effective ways to get rid of bags under your eyes.

Use A Cream

The benefit of under-eye cream is that it’s the least invasive and most accessible way of dealing with this issue. Most women have an evening beauty routine that involves facial cleansers, toners, and moisturizers anyway, so it’s not a big deal to add an under-eye cream to the mix.

When choosing a cream, find one that has either caffeine or hyaluronic acid – these creams tend to be more effective.

Hyaluronic acid is a substance your skin naturally manufactures anyway, and is the active ingredient in Juvederm treatments. But more on that later.

What hyaluronic acid does is to act as a cushion and lubricant between the tissues in your body, hydrating and plumping sagging skin. Meanwhile, caffeine helps to tighten skin and drain excess fluids from your body.

Use Tea Bags

You may have heard this one from your mother when you were younger, but it’s just as relevant today as it’s ever been. Placing wet tea bags on your eyes has many benefits.

First of all, they contain caffeine, which as we mentioned above helps tighten your skin and drain excess fluids from the area. But they also have tannins, an organic substance found in many different plant tissues. Tannins are what give dry wines their flavour, but they also help to decrease the swelling in the area and reduce discolouration as well.

If you’re on a tight budget, or have run out of product before you got a chance to replace it, or you got several boxes of tea for Christmas and don’t really drink that much tea, this is an ideal solution. Place the wet teabags in the fridge for about 20 minutes or so to cool them off, then lay one on each eye for about 10-15 minutes. And naturally, caffeinated tea works best here.

Juvederm

Juvederm treatments can be used to help get rid of bags under your eyes as well. While Juvederm treatment is more invasive than a cream or a teabag, it also offers a longer-lasting solution, keeping your eye area youthful looking for up to a full year.

Juvederm can help smooth the contours of the area around your eyes to give it a more youthful appearance. This also has the added benefit of smoothing out crow’s feet and fine lines.

For more on Juvederm, click here.

Jiva Eye Treatment

Our Jiva Eye Treatment is like a mini facial specifically geared toward the area around your eyes. We use a treatment designed to reduce swelling, drain excess fluids from your lymph nodes, and of course cleanse and exfoliate your skin as well.

The result is fresher, more youthful looking eyes which can take years off your appearance.

Questions? Contact Us!

If you’re experiencing bags under your eyes and aren’t sure what to do about it, contact Jiva Spa Toronto. We can help you understand your options and put together a beauty treatment plan that’s right for your skin type and unique needs.

Contact Jiva Spa Toronto today, and take your first step toward a more youthful, healthier face.

Read additional info on: http://jivaspa.ca

How To Repair Your Thyroid Naturally Through Meditation

You can’t avoid stress in life, from the common, every day sort of stress you experience when, for example, you’re late for work, to the deeper emotional issues from which anxiety and depression can stem.

But no matter what type of stress you’re dealing with, from your cardiovascular system to your brain, you’ll notice some changes in your physiology. One of the most important parts of your body affected by stress is your thyroid.

How Stress Affects The Thyroid

I’ve written about the things that can prevent your thyroid from working at its peak before, including stress.
When you’re feeling stressed out, no matter what the reason, the reaction starts in your stomach. Because your stomach doesn’t produce acid at the rate it normally does when you’re under stress, it won’t absorb nutrients at the rate it should, like selenium and zinc.
And because both selenium and zinc are crucial for thyroid health, you can see why this is bad news.
Your digestive tract also becomes less of a hospitable place for the healthy bacteria, which can start breaking down your intestinal barrier.  This broken down barrier is a major risk for autoimmune diseases, including those that affect the thyroid, like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease.
But more than just holding back the nutrients it needs, stress also interferes with your body’s ability to create the hormones you need for your thyroid to work properly. It also depresses your HPA (hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal) axis, which interferes with production of TSH, the thyroid stimulating hormone.
And since around 20% of your body’s thyroid hormones come from your digestive tract, the issues there affect your thyroid as well!
In short, stress wreaks havoc on your thyroid!

Does Meditation Help The Thyroid?

Now that you know what stress can do to your thyroid, what can you do about it?
Believe it or not, studies have shown that taking time to meditate can actually help lower the effects stress can have on your body. It also has benefits for other conditions too, like:

• High blood pressure
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Ulcerative Colitis
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Smoking Cessation

Because both ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome are linked to the digestive system, it seems like meditating can have a positive effect on it. And because your digestive tract is so important for protecting you from autoimmune diseases, meditation may help protect you from these as well.
Stress creates cortisol, which can get in your thyroid’s way. But meditation has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, which helps you get your thyroid back to where it should be.
So… how do you do it? How do you meditate? It’s not just as simple as sitting quietly, is it?

What Is Mindfulness Meditation?

Mindfulness meditation is simply about being in the moment. If you can clear your mind of the past and future, and focus only on the present moment, you’re practicing mindfulness meditation.
Ever since I started practicing mindfulness meditation, I’ve noticed my body has increased its capacity for healing. I’ve noticed my body temperature increase, my sleep improved, and my general demeanor calmer and more relaxed, just by meditating for around 20 minutes a day.
20 minutes a day may sound like a lot of time, but you can work yourself up to that. Start with smaller meditation sessions – even if you meditate for only five minutes a day you can notice a difference!
Five minutes. That’s about the same length as one of your favourite songs, or the amount of time you spend at the coffee shop in the morning. It’s a pretty small time investment for the returns you can experience!
Can you set aside five minutes a day for the sake of your health?

Until next time, this is Dr. Pat Nardini, ND, putting “Your Wellness First!”

So What Is A Medi Spa, Anyway?

Find more on: Toronto Beauty Spa - Jiva Spa

I’ve been asked several times before what the difference is between a regular spa and a medi spa. They seem similar, and often provide similar services.

It can be even more confusing because some spas, like Jiva Spa, are both toronto medi spas and regular day spas. So where does the line between medi spa and day spa fall? And what are the benefits of a medi spa over a regular day spa?

Read on to find out.

What Is A Medi Spa?

A medi spa, med spa, or medical spa, is a spa that operates under the supervision of a medical doctor or other trained healthcare practitioner.

The different services vary, but they are in general considered more in-depth than regular spa services like facials and nail treatments. This means you can get better solutions for discoloration, fine lines, wrinkles, broken capillaries, redness, and other skin conditions than you can from a regular spa.

Most medi spas have a calming, laid back feel to them much like regular day spas. At first, medi spas felt more like a doctor’s office than a spa, but this is no longer the case. At Jiva Spa Toronto, we’ve taken great care to ensure the atmosphere is as relaxing and peaceful as possible.

Medi Spa Services

You can get a range of different services from a medi spa, each esigned to help you treat a specific condition. Here are just a few of the medi spa services we offer here at Jiva Spa Toronto.

Chemical Glycol Peel

A chemical glycol peel is a facial treatment designed to restore and rejuvenate your skin.

During the process of a chemical glycol peel, a layer of glycolic acid is applied to your skin. This helps shed away the surface layers, largely made up of dead skin cells. A chemical glycol peel can help reduce blotchiness, fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, freckles, age spots, and sun damage.

At the same time, it stimulates the creation of new skin cells, giving you healthier looking skin.

Juvederm

Juvederm facial fillers are often seen as an alternative to Botox in that it treats fine lines, deep wrinkles, crow’s feet, and acne scarring. But unlike Botox, Juvederm is made from hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in your skin. As a result, the odds of an adverse reaction are far lower.

Juvederm helps hydrate your skin and adds volume, while at the same time fills in the imperfections in your skin, leaving you with a more youthful appearance.

IPL Photo Facial

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, and it’s one of the most advanced pieces of beauty technology on the market today.

An IPL photo facial, like the name suggests, treats your skin using light pulses to reduce uneven pigmentation, rosacea, acne, age spots, spider veins, sun damage, birthmarks, and other skin imperfections. IPL photo facials generally work best on someone with a naturally light pigment to their skin.

This treatment also has the added bonus of boosting the amount of collagen and elastin in your skin, which gives you a healthier glow and more youthful appearance.

Microdermabrasion

A microdermabrasion treatment serves a similar function to a chemical glycol peel, but uses a different approach.

Like a chemical glycol peel, a microdermabrasion removes the layer of dead skin cells on the surface of your skin to reveal a healthier, more youthful glow underneath. But instead of applying glycolic acid to the skin, a microdermabrasion works using crystals and a vacuum.

The microdermabrasion tool is both a vacuum and a gun – it shoots tiny crystals at the skin on your face, which chip away at the layers of dead skin. From there, the vacuum removes the dead skin as well as the spent crystals, clearing things up.

Despite this, though, a microdermabrasion treatment is considered a safe, routine treatment and the side effects are generally both uncommon and mild.

Find Out More

For more information on these services, as well as other medi spa services from Jiva Spa Toronto, give us a call for a FREE skincare consultation. You’ll get a chance to speak with one of our skincare experts to find out which treatment plan is best for you.

Read more information on: Toronto's best spa - Jiva

Deep Cleansing Facials From Jiva Spa Toronto: Different Types

Read more on: http://jivaspa.ca

Have you taken a look at all the different deep cleansing facial treatments we have to offer here at Jiva Spa Toronto?

If so, you may be a little confused. With so many different choices, after all, where do you even start? How do you know which facial treatment is the best for your skin type?

It’s with that in mind that we’ve put together this article to help you understand the benefits of each facial treatment we have to offer. Of course, you are always welcome to join us for a skincare consultation. We’ll take some time to better understand your skincare needs and goals, and from there give you a treatment plan designed to meet them.

The Jiva Signature Facial

The Jiva Signature Facial is the most unique of all our facial treatments, and that’s because we tailor it to meet your specific skincare needs. We’ll take the time to better understand what type of skin you have, and from there build a facial which purifies, hydrates, cleanses, and exfoliates.

After all, we put our name on the line with this facial, so it had better be the best!

Sensitized Skin Treatment

Some people have more sensitive skin than others. If you experience red or itchy, dry patches, blemishes, tightness, or a tingling or stinging sensation, you may have sensitive skin. In this case, not just any facial treatment will do.

In fact, those with sensitive skin should avoid certain skin treatments. This is why we built the Sensitized Skin Treatment. It helps control the symptoms of sensitive skin mentioned above, reduces visible blood vessels on the surface, and provides a nice, soothing experience for your skin.

Deep Hydrating Treatment

While many deal with sensitive skin, dry skin is also a common problem. This is especially the case here in Canada during the winter, when the biting cold whips your skin and sucks out moisture like a vampire.

Others have naturally dry skin all year round, or due to lifestyle habits. But whatever the cause of your dry skin, Jiva Spa Toronto’s Deep Hydrating Treatment can help.

This treatment is designed to restore the moisture reserves in your face in a healthy, natural way. It minimizes cracks, flaking, and other signs of dry skin. At the end of this treatment, you’ll walk away with skin feeling fresh and healthy.

Acne Facial Treatment

We’ve written a lot about adult acne recently. It’s not an easy thing to deal with, especially if you’re a career-oriented person trying to be taken seriously in a dog-eat-dog world. Acne can sap your confidence and self esteem, bringing back negative memories of your awkward high school years.

Our Acne Facial Treatment will help soften the blow of acne. Along with a deep cleansing, your skin will be exfoliated, removing the dead skin flakes which often cause acne. From there, we’ll perform individual extractions on your most problematic areas.

Firming Facial

“Do not regret growing older. It is a privilege denied to many.”

The most fortunate of us get to deal with the problem of sagging, fading skin. But even as we should celebrate each moment we have in life, there is nothing wrong with helping your skin look its healthiest.

Our Firming Facial is an anti-aging facial treatment designed to restore the collagen in your skin. This helps to tighten and firm, reducing the signs of aging. You’ll walk away with a healthier, more youthful appearance than you’ve had in years.

Classic European Facial

When you think of a facial treatment, this is the standard one that comes to mind. It’s ideal for people who don’t have any specific concerns about their skin. They don’t have sensitive skin, dry skin, aging skin, acne, or any of the other issues mentioned above.

Even still, a facial can help anybody improve the look of their skin. So if you have otherwise healthy skin, a Classic European Facial is for you.

Come In And See

If you’re still a little confused, don’t worry! The skincare game is what we do here at Jiva Spa Toronto. We can design for you a skincare treatment plan designed to meet your skin’s unique needs.

Stop in and say hi, or give us a call, and take your first step toward the skin you want.

See additional info on: JivaSpa.ca

Adult Acne: Where Does It Come From?

See more on: Toronto's best spa - Jiva

Dealing with acne is one of the most frustrating beauty-related experiences most adults will face in their daily lives.

It’s something we all hoped we could leave behind in our teenage years along with the Molly Ringwald haircut we copied from our Breakfast Club poster we tore out of Teen Beat magazine.

Most of us hoped that by the time we became adults, we’d have moved past the acne-riddled awkwardness of adolescence and proceed fresh-faced into life in our 20’s, 30’s, 40’s, and beyond.

Sadly, for many of us, that’s not the case.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting more than 50 million people. Yikes.

First, let’s find out what causes adult acne. Then we can take a look at some common mistakes which can lead to an increase in acne among adults. Here at Jiva, we offer adult acne spa treatments, but there are other things you can do as well. You’ll walk away with some genuine tips on how to enjoy clearer skin.

What Causes Acne?

One of the most frustrating things about acne is the fact that we don’t fully understand what causes it and how to properly treat it. But here’s what we DO know.

It all starts with your hair follicles. Your hair follicles are connected to an oil gland. These glands secrete oil to help moisturize your hair and, by extension, your skin. When your body produces an excess amount of this oil, it can mix with dead skin cells and create a substance called sebum. They form a plug over your pores, creating the perfect environment for bacteria. And once the bacteria set up shop, the pore becomes inflamed. That’s where your zit comes from.

But while we recognize the mechanism that creates acne, we don’t know much about how to solve the problem for good. What works for one person may not work for others. But here are some of the things people have found to work for them.

Stress Causes Acne

Depressing, isn’t it? You get stressed out, which creates acne. You look in the mirror and see the acne, which stresses you out even more, causing more acne. It’s a wicked cycle.

Studies have shown a link between stress and acne. If you’re one of the fortunate few who was born with flawless skin and has never had to deal with acne before, however, stress won’t cause you to suddenly break out. And while this is a simplistic answer, reducing the amount of stress you have in your life can go a long way.

Touching Your Face Causes Acne?

Are you sitting at your desk right now with your head leaning against your hand? If so, you’re creating the perfect environment for acne.

Consider this for a moment -your keyboard is one of the dirtiest things in the world. You spend all day typing on it, and I’m sure you don’t clean it too often. You use it whether your hands are clean or dirty. It’s like a doorknob – a cesspool of bacteria.

Your cell phone isn’t much better. After spending all day in your purse, your pocket, or in your dirty hands, you then hold it against your face for 20 minutes having a phone chat.

Excuse me a moment. After writing that, I think I should clean a few things.

…okay I’m back.

So the point is, don’t touch your face if you can avoid it. Your hands are an often overlooked source of new bacteria which can take a free ride onto your face.

Family History

Chances are, if your parents had acne, you’ll have it too.

There’s not much you can do about this one, unfortunately. It’s just the luck of the draw.

Adult Acne Treatments In Toronto

If you’re dealing with adult acne, there is hope. Come to Jiva Spa Toronto for a skin care consultation. We’ll help you find out what is causing your acne, and what the best plan is to treat it.

See more information on: Anti-Aging and Beauty Spa - Jiva