A French Touch Salon

The finest in Parisian skin care on the central coast.

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Sunscreen Labels Aim to Protect Consumers from the Sun

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Sunscreen Labels Aim to Protect Consumers from the Sun

With FDA regulations controlling sunscreens on the market, it’s important for us to represent brands and products that are upholding these guidelines, especially in regard to accurate SPF ratings.

Here are the FDA’s regulations on sunscreens:

  • Sunscreens will not be able to label an SPF above 50; If their SPF rates are actually higher than 50, then they can post SPF 50+
  • To list “broad spectrum” on a product, the sunscreen will need to provide protection from BOTH UVA and UVB rays
  •  If the sunscreen is a “broad spectrum” with an SPF rating of 15+, the packaging can include the following comment “If used as directed with other sun protection measures, decreases the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun”
  • In order to list “water resistant” on the packaging, the sunscreen has to be tested for the amount of time it remains resistant to swimming and sweating, and the time has to be listed on the label;  There are three to four-time markers that can be included on packaging depending on how a product tests, with the highest rating being 80 minutes

All sunscreens had to go through retesting (and proof of testing to match labeling) to remain on the market a few years ago. After testing was completed, Jan Marini Skin Research, Colorescience, and Sothys all met the FDA guidelines, showing that their high-quality standard formulas have always met or exceeded the highest standards.

Jan Marini Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant

  •  SPF 33
  •  Broad Spectrum
  •  Water-resistant (80 minutes)
  •  Has additional antioxidants for added protection from free radical damage

Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral Sunscreen

  • SPF 50
  • Broad Spectrum
  • Water-resistant (80 minutes)
  • Chemical-free
  • Easy to apply with the gravity-dispensed brush

Jan Marini Physical Protectant 

  • SPF 45
  • Broad Spectrum 
  • Water Resistant (80 minutes)
  • Universal tint with sheer, matte finish (Also available in untinted)

4 Sunscreen Excuses You Should Never Use

There are a hundred reasons why we should wear sunscreen, yet the few negatives often prevent us from embracing the positive and getting our SPF on the right way! The majority of us think that the little SPF we apply in the morning (within our lotion or makeup) is enough to keep us protected, but it’s important to know that’s not the case! Beyond the serious risk of melanoma, dermatologists remind us that 95% of aging is directly due to sun damage. For that reason, we’re bringing to light the 4 sunscreen excuses that tend to keep us from wearing SPF the right way, and how Colorescience’s Sunforgettable products eliminate those excuses.

Bad Excuse #1: Most are Sticky and Stinky
Sunscreen has a bad reputation for being sticky and stinky. Find a sunscreen with a lightweight formula and test it on your skin before purchasing. This will give you a good idea of the smell and feel of the sunscreen on your skin.

Colorescience Sunforgettable Solution: Odorless, lightweight, and “barely-there” feel

Bad Excuse #2: Reapplying Messes Up Makeup
We know that all sunblocks require reapplication, which can be determined by their SPF number. SPF is an acronym for Sun Protection Factor. The number represents the length of time you can stay out in the sun without burning, multiplied by the SPF number. However, this number can be deceiving. The general rule of thumb is to reapply every 3-4 hours regardless of SPF level due to water, rubbing of clothes, and sweat. Doctors also recommend an SPF 30, anything under that is too little.

Because creamy sunblocks are “organic,” not in the sense that they’re natural, but the fact that they interact with your own skin chemistry, they lose their effectiveness 3 to 4 hours after application.

Colorescience Sunforgettable Solution: Pure mineral powder sunscreens offer longer-lasting, water-resistant protection that won’t sweat off. You, therefore, get a literal “screen” effect on top of the skin while offering consistent SPF30 or SPF50 protection.

Bad Excuse #3: Sunscreens Contain Chemicals
Pure minerals are essentially the only sun protection recommended for young children, whose delicate skins will absorb chemicals from cream-based sunblocks that can be systemic (entering the bloodstream). Also, some adults are allergic to commonly used chemical blocks in over-the-counter sunscreen cream.

Colorescience Sunforgettable Solution: Pure mineral powders don’t release any irritating ingredients, because they’re the most natural block available in nature (zinc, and titanium dioxide).

Bad Excuse #4: Allergies and Acne
Most sunscreens are greasy and clog pores, especially from sweating in the sun! And it is widely recognized that acne-prone skin can’t handle the double dose of chemicals and pore-clogging creams.

Colorescience Sunforgettable Solution: Since this SPF is a mineral powder it is extremely lightweight, yet powerful for a barely-there feel that provides the safest, non-irritating, instant UVA and UVB sun protection. This also means that you can “forget” about grease! Sunforgettable won’t cause breakouts or irritations.

April is Rosacea Awareness Month

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Pretty Without Pink

It stands to reason that when 16 million Americans are affected by a skin condition,  it will be recognized as worthy of attention, raising public awareness and  providing information to treat and manage its signs and symptoms. With April designated as National Rosacea Awareness Month, A French Touch is dedicated to helping our clients address their concerns with this common skin condition that causes facial redness and bumps.  Although there is currently no known cure, fortunately there are salon treatments, home care and skin-benefiting makeup that we provide to help keep your skin calm and more even-toned. Note that general redness is not necessarily a sign of this condition, which should be accurately diagnosed by a physician if you suspect your symptoms have become more noticeable over time. Medical treatment options from topical prescriptions to IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) provide relief, in addition to the right home care skin regimen which we can provide for you.

The redness that typically appears on the cheeks, nose and sometimes chin appears as a result of superficial, over-active capillaries that visibly dilate. The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but it seems to be attributed to circulation, genetic predisposition (those with Irish, Scottish, English and Scandinavian heritage are all more susceptible). Although hereditary, the condition is intensified by sun exposure, extreme heat or cold, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and cigarettes.

While rosacea is more common in women, symptoms tend to be more severe in men.
But symptoms in both genders may worsen over time, so early diagnosis and treatment are key.

Rosacea usually develops in adults between the ages of 30 and 50, but it can strike after 50 since you never outgrow it. Since it’s a life-long skin condition, once it develops, it will come and go as it pleases. Proper treatment is your best bet to prolong your periods of remission.

Calming Options for the Blushing Blues

It’s not enough to opt for “sensitive skin” products that have very little effect on this condition. Choose instead skincare products that offer soothing ingredients on contact, designed to sedate and calm overactive skin by reducing redness and making the skin feel more comfortable, smooth and hydrated.  Treat your skin gently, while consistently  introducing calming agents. Fragile capillaries require a comprehensive regulating, soothing and protecting response.

Cleanse with Gentle Care and Moisturizer 

CLARITY MILK & CLARITY LOTION  (toner)

Removes makeup and gently cleanses away the day’s impurities while keeping skin calm. As the French do, remove cleansing milk with toner (“lotion”) on cotton pads to retain the skin’s pH balance and increase moisture absorption from your serums and creams. If using water, keep it tepid as hot water overstimulates.

Our French skincare is perfectly suited to delicate skin, Rosacea snd general redness falling into this category. SOTHYS for the past 70 years has focused on meticulously developing new active ingredients derived from natural sources to maintain and reinforce the skin’s natural lipid barrier. Their precise formulas improve their products’ effectiveness, while pleasing the senses with textures and light, fresh scents.

CLARETE ET CONFORT (Clearness and Comfort) Light and Protective Cream & Serum

Created to strengthen the circulatory system of fragile skin, this line of treatment creams is infused with advanced formulas featuring breakthrough polyphenol technology. Known for their ability to protect and soothe with powerful  antioxidant benefits, Sothys -selected polyphenols of hazel leaf and mint  combined with wild mango, bilberry and little holly regulate micro-circulation, diminishing redness, soothing and strengthening capillary walls. French gardens come to mind with the delicate scents,  as these gentle botanicals soothe and replenish moisture. Paraben-free.

I have honestly had several clients tell me how much they have seen their skin improve with a consistent home care regimen that incorporates these formulas.

SOOTHING SOS SERUM

Introduced last year, I LOVE the new SPA Sensitive Line – named after the therapeutic thermal waters of the Belgian town of Spa (where the term originated!) – specifically formulated to PROTECT against external aggression, SOOTHE all symptoms of discomfort and BALANCE the skin’s tolerance threshold. The gentle textures featuring Spa™ Thermal Water have been formulated to respect the sensitivity of all skin. Each product is fragrance free, color free, paraben free and hypoallergenic.

This essential serum with Spa™ Thermal Water, Wild Jasmine leaf extract and Tetra-Peptide quickly neutralizes permanent or temporary sensations of discomfort, and limits their appearance. Blue ageratum leaf and brown algae extracts limit the inflammatory reaction and visibly reduce redness-  a MUST if you’re “seeing red”..

 

And the most exciting new product we now offer to address the symptoms of Rosacea and general redness attributable to overactive, fragile capillaries:

Jan Marini Skin Research introduces “RosaLieve” Redness Reducing Complex 

This face lotion reduces facial flushing and calms skin with key ingredient, azelaic acid, an anti-redness peptide, as well as several other antioxidants and extracts.

The results speak for themselves in several clinical studies, shown above.

Top trigger for Rosacea Flare-Ups

81% of Americans affected by rosacea said that sun exposure was a top trigger for a Rosacea flare-up, so staying protected from the sun is key. Did you know that titanium dioxide actually keeps the skin surface a few degrees cooler, minimizing the heat reaction that exacerbates Rosacea and redness?

SUNFORGETTABLE SPF50 BRUSH

Colorescience Minerals provide chemical-free, oil-free, paraben-free PHYSICAL sun-protection (preferred by dermatologists) that provide all-in-one cosmetics and sun care .With the FDA recommending application and RE-application every 80 minutes, you won’t find a better option to keep in your purse than SUNFORGETTABLE SPF50 , formulated with 100% zinc and titanium, delivering high-performance UVA nd UVB protection.

And be sure to stop into the salon for a complimentary mini-application session, showing you how to eliminate the red, creating a natural, soft and even-toned complexion with these go-to products~

  • Tint du Soleil SPF 30– protective foundation that provides hydration and coverage
  • Sunforgettable SPF 50 Brush– mineral sunscreen, allows for easy and continuous application
  • Skin Calming SPF 20 Primer– helps neutralize redness while soothing the skin

PLUS Colorescience All Calm® Clinical Redness Corrector SPF 50 and NEW! All Calm® Multi-Correction Serum

Pair with All Calm® Clinical Redness Corrector and Total Protection™ Brush-On Shield SPF 50 for a 3-step regimen clinically proven to calm sensitive skin and diminish the appearance of redness over time.

Call to schedule your appointment and experience the French Touch difference in skincare~ Vive la difference!

 

Jan Marini Tapped Into the Fountain of Youth with Regeneration Booster – Anti-Aging Powerhouse!

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Most people don’t speak skincare.  When researching options, ingredients become a blur of words we can’t pronounce and percentages that never seem to break .1%.  However, it is absolutely essential that we do understand what we are putting on our skin and why.

Jan Marini Skin Research combines the latest and greatest technology with tried and true methods to create products that actually work.  One of their most notable forays into cellular technology led to the creation of a cutting-edge new product: Age Intervention Regeneration Booster. For those too sensitive to retinol, this serum offers the ideal solution for skin regeneration and rejuvenation.

An incredible innovation by Jan Marini Skin Research was the incorporation into her products of TGF Beta 1, one of many growth factors, collectively referred to as cytokines, which help maintain skin’s youthful appearance. The Transformation line of products incorporate this growth factor for maximum transformative power. Additionally, our favorite Regeneration Booster incorporates this growth factor along with keratinocyte growth factor, epidermal growth factor and Cycloastrogenol.

This patented formulation combines advanced growth factors, peptides and antioxidants to hydrate skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve the appearance of texture and overall skin tone.

Age Intervention Regeneration Booster is innovative in its use of advanced telomerase enzyme technology, a discovery which earned three women scientists the 2009 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine.  This technology is meant to protect chromosomes from degradation, allowing for longer-lasting DNA cells. The Nobel Laureates showed that this solution can be found at the ends of chromosomes in their telomeres – long, thread-like DNA molecules that carry our genes – and in telomerase, an enzyme that forms these molecules.  If the telomeres are shortened, cells age. Conversely, if telomere activity is high, telomere length is maintained and premature cellular aging is delayed. By helping to stabilize the telomere, the technology present in this product slows down the process of skin aging.

Age Intervention Regeneration Booster combines telomerase enzyme with anti-inflammatory agents, peptides, and other skin-enhancing ingredients, enabling the skin to appear dramatically younger and aiding in the improvement of fine lines and wrinkles, firmness, discoloration, elasticity, texture, and overall skin health.

Home care after your peels in the form of Retinol and Regeneration Booster work synergistically with the peel’s activity to significantly improve the appearance of the skin. You’ll never forget it’s “Peel Season”, with BOOSTER your new partner in keeping those telomeres youthful!

Rejuvenate and Protect

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Spring brings feelings of renewal and rejuvenation, and what better time than now to add a little spring in your step with glowing skin!  The powerful combination of vitamin c and sunscreen for the ultimate in antioxidant protection, will have you looking refreshed, even after the clocks spring forward! Jan Marini’s Rejuvenate and Protect will protect your skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with our ultra-wearable SPF and antioxidant rich vitamin C. Includes C-ESTA Serum and a choice of Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant SPF33 or Marini Physical Protectant Tinted SPF 45.

The antioxidant properties of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and its role in collagen synthesis make vitamin C a vital molecule for skin health. Dietary and topicalascorbic acid have beneficial effects on skin cells, and some studies have shown that vitamin C may help prevent and treat ultraviolet (UV)-induced damage.

This is not the only innovation by Jan–you’ve heard us brag about the C-Esta line enough to know that. C-Esta products utilize the power of Vitamin C and Jan Marini Skin Research was the first to introduce Vitamin C with a neurotransmitter factor into the skin care market.

“Liquid gold”- how many of my clients refer to Jan Marini’s amazing C-Esta Serum as it fights free radical damage and adds brilliance to the skin while firming slackening tissue.

C-ESTA products are  non-comedogenic, powerful antioxidant formulas that will show quick improvements in the skin’s surface by appearing smoother, firmer and tighter.  Your skin will look more even-toned and younger while protected by the sun’s harsh rays when using these products

 

 

C-Esta Face Serum:

Great for all skin types, C-ESTA Serum is a powerful antioxidant cocktail, featuring Vitamin C and DMAE, shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and uneven skin texture. Preferred by subjects in a blinded split-face study vs. a leading Vitamin C solution, C-ESTA Serum is the preferred Vitamin C and antioxidant solution for younger, healthier looking skin.

Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant SPF 33:

A sunscreen you’ll love to wear and consistent favorite with JMSR users! Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection to decrease the risk of cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun. This invisible, hydrating and weightless sunscreen feels amazing and smells great for the ultimate in daily wearability. Fast-absorbing and cosmetically elegant, the Daily Face Protectant features microscopic particles for additional oil control making it perfect for wear with or without makeup. Enhanced with antioxidants phytomelanin and beta glucan 1,3. Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant SPF 33 helps reduce and address damage caused by sun exposure.

Marini Physical Protectant SPF 45:

A sunscreen you’ll love to wear and consistent favorite with JMSR users! Marini Physical Protectant SPF 45 utilizes purely physical filters for broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection to decrease the risk of premature skin aging. This weightless sunscreen features a universal tint and microscopic oil absorbing particles for additional oil control with a sheer, matte finish. Green tea extract and alpha bisabolol provide enhanced antioxidant benefits while soothing and calming the skin.

Do you know what hyaluronic acid can do for you?

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WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID?

 

Hyaluronic acid comes naturally

We love talking about Hyaluronic acid (HA)! It’s a substance that is naturally present in the human body. I’ll spare you all the scientific dialogue and give you the good stuff so, you can see why we love this ingredient so much. First off, know what skin type you have so you know what skin care product will work best for you.

Hyaluronic acid supports many important areas of the body: hair, nerves, skin, eyes and most notably lubrication of joints . Youthful skin abounds with hyaluronic acid so, it makes sense that this wonder ingredient is used in products to promote moisture and create fullness. Hyaluronic acid is also a “smart nutrient” as it can adjust its moisture absorption rate based on the humidity—relative to the season and the climate. In skin care, you can find hyaluronic acid creams, serums, injectables, and hyaluronic acid supplements.

skin tissue layers

Hyaluronic acid benefits

Hyaluronic acid plays a critical role in skin health with its unique ability to hold in moisture (1000 ml of water per gram of hyaluronic acid) and 50% of it is found in our skin tissue. The bad news…is there any good news in aging? … As we age our production of HA lessens, skin moisture can drop significantly, which makes the skin lose elasticity, sag, wrinkle, and increase dryness.

So, it makes complete sense why it is used as a dermal filler, as in Restylane and Juvederm but, there are quality products with hyaluronic acid that give an extra boost of hydration, moisture and restore the skins elasticity with each application, preserving the skins youthfulness, making lines less noticeable and giving skin a rejuvenated feeling.

We carry some of the best hyaluronic acid products on the market and we can’t wait to share them with you.

 

NEW HYDRATING RANGE!

4X MOISTURIZING POWER

Hydra Hyaluronic acid4

Based on its latest Advanced research discoveries, Sothys is now revealing its new hydrating range.  A genuine concentration of innovation to act deep within the skin, this new programme combines depending on the product 4 sources of hyaluronic acid and 2 patented active ingredients derived from the Sothys Advanced Research.

Discover a new professional Intensive treatment and four products for home use to offer immediate, long-lasting hydration through synergistic action. A new high-performance youth solution because well-hydrated skin appears visibly younger and copes better with the passage of time.

 

Intensive Hydrating Serum: Essential for every single skin type! Designed to work like a skin architect, this intensive serum aims to lastingly boost hydration mechanisms. Its light-as-water texture is rich in liposomes and instantly melts into skin.

 

Hydrating Youth Creams: Designed to work like a protective shield against dehydration, these creams aim to immediately plump skin and reactivate its moisture memory.

Results: Day after day, skin regains an optimal level of hydration, becomes soft, smooth, and visibly plumper, and is lastingly protected.


A choice of 2 textures for an everyday customized approach:

  • Satin cream for normal to combination skin
  • Velvet cream for normal to dry skin

 

Hydra-plumping mask:

Designed to provide an instant burst of hydration, this mask also has a pleasant rich and enveloping texture. In minutes, skin is visibly plumper and smoother and the complexion glows once again.

Results: Skin is intensely hydrated, suppler, more radiant, comfortable and seemingly rejuvenated.

 

New Treatment – The Hydrating Intensive Treatment:

The absolute hydration solution with 6 stages to quench, hydrate and plump the skin, renewing its youthfulness. This high-performance treatment combines 4 sources of hyaluronic acid with 2 patented Sothys active ingredients. It is recommended as a series of three treatments.

Results: After the first treatment, 100% of people say the skin is hydrated, softer and more radiant.*

 

JAN MARINI

Age and sun damage diminish the body’s ability to produce and maintain youthful levels of Hyaluronic Acid (HA) in the skin; leading to loss of volume and visible signs of aging. Hyla3D takes a 3-Dimensional approach to restoring HA and volume to the skin.

  • 1) Multiple forms of HA apply deep, long-lasting hydration.
  • 2) Advanced technologies enhance HA within the skin.
  • 3) Peptides and antioxidants boost collagen and elastin.

Hyla3D restores hydration while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful, contoured look.

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The History of Sothys

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Sothys was the name that the ancient Egyptians gave to the brightest star in the sky; she was perceived by the inhabitants of the land of Pharaohs as the jewel amongst jewels. Men were fascinated by her brightness and her beauty. During a heavenly night, Saturn met the young star Sothys; even Venus never seemed so beautiful. Their meeting was astonishing and Saturn was overwhelmed with passion for her; this threw the regular rhythm of the stars into confusion.
Venus could not bear the fact she was not anymore the most beautiful star in the sky. She took her revenge and Sothys fell into the dark of the night and disappeared. Saturn cried over forty days and forty nights and flooded the Earth. During centuries, the world heard nothing about Sothys until the day when … Sothys reappeared to deliver her secret to the Earth : she dedicated herself to women in order to preserve their beauty and happiness. As a tribute, Men venerated her as a Goddess.

 

Sothys, one of the original beauty institute and spa brands, was created in 1946 during the new wave of French beauty.

Under the leadership of Dr Hotz, a spa treatment visionary and a keen Egyptologist, the first formulas were developed in 1946.

Sothys, the name of a beautiful star from the legends of the Pharaohs, became the name of the brand.

 

French Excellence 

Sothys has represented French excellence in professional treatments for beauty institutes and spas.

Choosing Sothys, means combining impeccable technology with an outstanding experience for the senses.

Development of the Sothys brand has been driven by its ability to stay true to itself while bringing new solutions to the changing world of beauty. In each of our innovations, we pursue the idea of responsible beauty that respects the skin and the environment.

Present in 120 countries, Sothys has an exclusively professional approach, which is practised by beauty therapists who are highly trained in the brand’s treatments and techniques.

 

A Family Run Business

Since 1946, Sothys has delivered unreserved luxury from generation to generation, in two key places that have played a historic role for the brand…

In the area of Corrèze, where the Mas family originated known for its research and production units, administrative departments and Les Jardins Sothys®.

And in Paris, the home of Sothys international training centre and « L’Institut Sothys », the brand’s global showcase salon at 93 Fbg Saint Honor.