A French Touch Salon

The finest in Parisian skin care on the central coast.

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Let’s concentrate on ampoules

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Ampoules – small vials of concentrated formulas aimed at correcting specific skin concerns – are finally getting their 15 minutes of fame. Though already widely popular in Europe and Asia (especially Korea), the U. S. is just being introduced to this vital part of skin care regimens.

So, why are these little capsules used during professional European facials? The perfected formula gives the most powerful and instantaneous results possible. Its small molecular structure allows for quick absorption and prepares skin for additional products…including your serum.

These differ from normal serums as they contain a higher concentration and are designed for short-term use (figure one to two weeks). “Consumers have high expectations when purchasing skin care products today and expect results, fast,” says Benjamin Simpson, senior vice president of marketing for Babor, which is responsible for manufacturing over 20 million ampoules each year.

Asia is credited for being the leaders in ampoule usage, thanks to the trend of multi-layering. Ten step skin care regiments are very common in Asian countries, usually done twice a day. This allows products to build on one another, offering the best concentration and penetration of ingredients. Implement ampoules into your daily layering of skin care products. Ampoules are designed to be used short term so, when a new skin concern arises, you can easily switch to a new ampoule without altering other products. They penetrate through to some of the deepest layers of your skin and can be very effective. Due to their concentration during application, they can produce results right away but, make sure you are using the right type of ampoule for your skin type and skin care needs.

Sothys has come out with Essential Ampouples…four different ampoules for hydrating, oxygentating, brightening and anti-aging, each benefit various skin needs. Sothys is donating 50% of Essential Ampoules sales to The Florida Breast Cancer Foundation.

How are ampoules used correctly?

  1. Thoroughly cleanse face, neck and cleavage with care products according to the skin type.
  2. Apply a face tonic in order to rebuild the acid mantle of the skin and to improve the penetration of the active ingredients into the skin.
  3. When using  Sothys ampoules simply snap off the applicator tip and sprinkle the product in the palm of your hand.
  4. The valuable ingredients are now applied with the fingertips and gently tapped until the impression arises that the skin is saturated.
  5. In case a small rest is left, this should be used as quickly as possible (due to the preservation and the sensitivity of the high concentrated active ingredients).
  6. Finally, apply your usual care products.

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What are the right steps for your morning skincare routine?

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Owner of A French Touch Salon, Patricia Kaspian, gives us those steps and the short version.

Those of us living or working on the central coast, we all know about the microclimates, from the dry, tough heat up in Paso Robles to the foggy, cool days in Morro Bay. And of course, add in the environmental hazards such as the recent fires and our skin is screaming for attention. What can we do for our skin, to start the day off right? I sat down with a French touch salon’s owner and skincare expert, Patricia Kaspian to find out what we should be doing for our morning skincare routine. I have to admit I’m not good when it comes to a routine with many steps; i mean who has that kind of time these days but then, the alternative is damaged and prematurely aging skin and who seriously wants to look old before their time?! Exactly! We’re on the same page.

Hi Patricia! I know you have a very busy schedule so let’s get to it…please educate us on what we need to do for our morning skincare routine.

Patricia: Your morning routine is to begin with a freshening cleanse so it responds well to the products that you’ll be using. These are the steps i highly recommend…

  1. A milk cleanser…it won’t strip the skin.
  2. Toner…a very important part of your routine! It removes every last bit of dirt or what the cleanse doesn’t get. It prepares your skin for better absorption of the products that will follow.
  3. Then your eyes…a very delicate area. Use a multi-action eye contour cream or serum that penetrates well into this delicate tissue to address concerns like fine lines, puffiness ir dark circles.
  4. This next step is critical and not many women know about it…add a professional vitamin c (over the counter versions fall sadly short of what a spa or medical line such as Jan Marini can provide in terms of results).a daily vitamin which is a free radical scavenger. For the whole day, it builds the skin’s defenses against any environmental aggressions.
  5. If you’re applying the Jan Marini skincare regimen, cleansing and vitamin c (above) are followed with an exfoliating glycolic acid bio-clear cream to stimulate cell turnover to keep your skin glowing.
  6. Customized serum and moisturizer is next to create that nourishing, moisturizing barrier which delivers more peptides & anti-oxidants. And, a good moisturizer will make the skin supple and less prone to wrinkles over time.
  7. Don’t forget about your neck cream!! We have Jan Marini’s Juveneck. Please don’t stop at the face. Take it downtown ladies and nourish that décolletage.
  8. Lastly, the finisher, is the sunscreen…whether it is Sothys SPF 30 (face & body), the anti-oxidant SPF 30 from Jan Marini or the all-in-one, make-up & SPF 50 mineral sunscreen by Colorescience…we have many powerful protective options that fit your taste and lifestyle. But remember…sunscreens last only 80-90 minutes a day so you must reapply! Even if you’re driving.

What do people need to know about most face washes? If there is soap in the wash, do they not tend to strip our skin?

Patricia: Yes, they do, compromising the delicate acid mantle of the skin.  I recommend using a purifying foam gel for oily skin, for dry or sensitive skins use a milk cleanser. I’d suggest using the bioglycolic cleanser which dissolves more dead cells and debris, getting rid of the flakiness and dryness so then, you’re left with skin primed and ready for better absorption.

Most people have a lifestyle, and patience, that can only handle a few steps in the morning. What steps would you say are a priority if someone just can’t or won’t take the necessary time in the morning to care for their skin?

Patricia: First, micellar waters are very big right now. They’ve been popular in Europe for years and we’re loving this easy peazy option because, they thoroughly clean and tone the skin and double as an eye makeup remover. Micellar water by Sothys is a great choice and perfect for all skin types. They can’t be beat for gym workouts and travel kits. Next, the vitamin c…it’s critical. It’s a step that you can’t afford to miss. Followed by your sunscreen. An anti-oxidant sunscreen which is actually hydrating. That could be the shortened version of taking care of and protecting your skin for the day. However, for those of you that have dry skin…you have to add a hydrating step with a serum or cream moisturizer.

Ok, people. Those are the steps for you to follow. Whether you do them all or can’t make the time and do the short version…starting your day off right by protecting and hydrating your skin will keep you looking fresh and youthful. You can come in the salon and find everything you need to follow these steps…one stop shop and Patricia would be more than happy to help you and answer any questions you might have. Patricia has high ratings and a following for a reason! Better yet, book online and get the full “French touch” experience! Au revoir!

 

Take care of all your skincare needs with Jan Marini Skin Research Skin Care Management System

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Would you add 2 steps to your skin care routine if it gets you better results? And, over 20% OFF…Always!

Managing a detailed skincare regimen is not always easy – as busy women, it is difficult sometimes to remember the routine, much less find the time to put it into action. But A French Touch Parisian Skincare Salon and Jan Marini Skin Research are here to help! With the Jan Marini Skin Care Management System, skincare is broken down into five simple, customized steps using the latest clinically validated technology.

1. Deep Cleanse

Bioglycolic Facial Cleanser is a gentle cleanser that encourages a smoother skin texture by using the  follicular cleansing  action of glycolic acid and is perfect for acne-prone skin.  The formula is soap-free and non-irritating, leaving the skin naturally hydrated.

2. Rejuvenate

    C-ESTA Face Serum is a non-comedogenic, powerful antioxidant formula 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 when using this product.

3. Resurface

Bioglycolic Bioclear Lotion offers remarkable anti-aging and skin resurfacing properties that help reduce fine lines, wrinkles, acne and rosacea.  Follicle size will reduce dramatically and a younger luminous skin will be revealed.

4. Hydrate

Transformation Face Cream will help rebuild and repair damaged skin cells by using Growth Factor beta-1, Tymosin beta-4 and peptides.  This time released system will leave the skin looking hydrated and healthy. Systems for Dry/Very Dry skin include Age Intervention Cream; its patented formula specifically targets changes in the appearance of skin resulting from hormonal changes and cumulative sun exposure.

5. Protect

Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant SPF 30 is one of the key components in the skin care management system.  It contains a PhytoMelanin plant extract that provides UV and antioxidant protection and an oil control system using microscopic sponge technology.  It is oil free and water resistant, leaving skin silky and velvety.

These products are just a sampling of those available for each step – one unique aspect of the Skin Care Management system is that it can be easily customized to accommodate any skin needs. Plus, additional Jan Marini products such as the Regeneration Booster and Retinol Plus are easy to incorporate into the system.

Stop by the salon today for a consultation and discover the true potential of your skin!

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Telomerase Enzyme Technology: The New Standard

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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.

Age Intervention Regeneration Booster is innovative in its use of advanced telomerase enzyme technology, a discovery which earned three 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.

 

Jan Marini, Dermatology, and Quality Assurance for Your Skin

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Bonjour Mes Amis!

As you know, we are still just giddy about our recent interview with Jan Marini. She was so great to talk to that we ran out of room to cover our conversation in our last post!

Jan

One part of the conversation that particularly interested us was Jan’s emphasis on the quality of her products. She discussed the dichotomy between the over-the-counter skin-care versus that purchased from doctors or dermatologists– Jan noted that there was a perception that products purchased from doctors are of a higher quality, which is not necessarily true. Over-the-counter products from major manufacturers are often produced under the highest standards, while many smaller professional market brands are produced in lesser labs that do not have the same scrutiny or FDA inspections.

In any case, in the past, patients often purchased products that were not compatible with prescriptions, certain skin conditions or cosmetic procedures.  Jan recognized the need to provide the highest quality, most efficacious, medically and clinically validated skin care in order to bridge that gap. Jan launched her remarkable line so that physicians and skin care professionals could have absolute confidence in products that produce measurable results.

Secondly, JMSR’s lab  is what is referred to as a “GMP”  lab, which is a designation given to labs who are licensed to produce pharmaceutical drugs and are regularly inspected by the FDA and have strict FDA oversight.  This is a further testament to JMSR’s emphasis on safety and efficacy.

 

JM 20th

From the onset, Jan Marini Skin Research originated their formulas and owns their proprietary formulations. JMSR  has pioneered numerous product firsts and holds a number of prestigious patents.  Among the firsts, are the first lipid soluble form of Vitamin C, the first combination of glycolic salicylic and azaleic acids, the first product with Transforming Growth Factor beta-1 (TGF beta-1) and many other groundbreaking technological firsts.

Recently, there has even been a Bioglycolic Body Scrub, which we are extremely excited about. All of these products resurface the skin and address concerns such as discoloration, adult acne, fine lines, wrinkles, and enlarged follicles. It is truly a wonder formula, designed to address all potential skin concerns.

Bioglycolic Face Cream

 

 

One aspect of this formula is that it boosts collagen production in the skin. A key prerequisite is the pH of the acid.  If the pH of the acid is too low, it can cause an on-going inflammatory response that can encourage collagen breakdown.  If the pH of the product is too high, the formula will lose it’s effectiveness.  The key is to maintain efficacy without on-going irritation. In fact, Jan Marini’s Bioglycolic formula is gentler at a higher percentage than many others are at lower percentages of glycolic.

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 as we mentioned earlier, Jan Marini Skin Research was the first to introduce Vitamin C with a neurotransmitter factor into the skin care market.

c-Esta Dmae

 

Another incredible innovation by Jan Marini Skin Research was the incorporation 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 Cycloastrogenal.

Regeneration Booster

All in all, our conversation with Jan affirmed what we all already knew–Jan Marini Skin Research produces formulas that are incredibly effective, and down-right revolutionary. As a company, they do their absolute utmost to ensure the quality of the product. What that means for us, as the consumers, is that we can be satisfied that these products are the best of the best and have physician endorsement.

Keep that in mind as you review the specials for the upcoming Hot August Beauty Night!

We can’t wait to see all of you and celebrate 20 years of the amazing Jan Marini Skin Research.

Bisous!

Adrienne

Summer Beauty Escape and THE Jan Marini

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Bonjour mes amis!

We at A French Touch Salon are very excited for two reasons:

1) Summer Beauty Escape is TOMORROW and we cannot wait to see all of your lovely faces, (not to mention enjoying cupcakes and champagne!)

2) We got an interview with THE Jan Marini, and we get to share it with you! (We have to admit, we were a bit star struck).

We got so much information from Jan yesterday that we decided to keep some to ourselves for now (I wouldn’t tantalize you without good cause), but, given that tomorrow we’ll be discussing products with our lovely Jan Marini representatives, we thought we’d share some of Jan’s favorites with you today! Who better to speak about her products than (the beautiful, illustrious, influential) Jan herself?

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that Jan LOVES her products. She says that she designs products for herself as much as anyone else, which means that she is quite literally taking care of your skin the way she takes care of her own. What better quality guarantee is there than that? That being said, there are products that she favors (and we should all probably take heed, because this woman is just the picture of healthy skin)

Jan

First amongst the products we discussed with Jan was, of course, her SKIN CARE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM. It seems that, even for Jan, the Skin Care Management System is the foundation to healthy, glowing, and blemish free skin. She benefits from its myriad of benefits, including the improvement of fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, and acne (which, unbelievably, Jan used to suffer from! But more on that in a later post). There’s a reason that this product was voted the Beauty Choice Product Winner of New Beauty Magazine–its transformative results are clinically proven, and Jan herself is a poster child for its effectiveness.

I’d like to take this opportunity to remind you of our Magnifique and Summer Jetsetter specials, which offer this very product at a discount!
I’d like to take this opportunity to remind you of our Magnifique and Summer Jetsetter specials, which offer either the full or starter kit at a discount!

Additionally, Jan utilizes her Age Intervention Regeneration Booster and Age Intervention Prime. Both products target signs of aging (loss of elasticity, fine lines and wrinkles), while the Age Intervention Prime does double duty—serving as a primer for a finished, polished appearance. Jan admits to preferring Age Intervention Prime to makeup, except for occasional television appearances. The Regneration Booster is incredibly effective at minimizing pores, softening fine lines and wrinkles and evening out skin tone. In a clinical study,  94% of participants saw overall improvement in the texture and appearance of their skin. Age Intervention Prime is fantastic because it contains peptides and CoEnzyme Q10 to target redness and fine lines, producing an airbrushed, long lasting look that actually improves skin through continued use. It combines advanced anti-aging and antioxidant properties with the added benefit of a primer.

Regeneration Booster Age Int Prime

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jan is also a BIG fan of Retinol Plus  in a way that we highly recommend—in addition to utilizing Retinol Plus’ extreme anti-aging benefits on her face, she uses it on her neck , which we all know can be a trouble zone if we’re not consistent with our attention to this delicate tissue. For this reason, Retinol Plus should be used on the neck area on alternating nights. This product is so effective that it has been described as an “anti-aging cocktail” by New Beauty Magazine. It contains a highly concentrated dose of Retinol, plus Peptides and Antioxidants, which clearly can benefit the skin of your neck in addition to your face. (Feel free to get as creative as Jan with its usage).

For her nightly routine, Jan swears by both Cleanzyme Cleanser and Skinzyme Mask, for a gentle, but deep-acting exfoliating treatment before applying night-care. These products make use of green-papaya enzyme which breaks down cellular debris build up, allowing products to penetrate much more efficiently.

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Another product she uses in a unique way is Enlighten +, which she rubs on the backs of her hands and up her arms (likely to prevent and reduce any age marks, which is brilliant of her-excuse the pun). Enlighten Plus is famous for lessening the appearance of hyper-pigmentation from years of photo-damage. In addition to actively addressing any spotting that is already present, it  prevents any future formation of damage by inhibiting excess melanin production in the skin.

Enlighten Plus
Finally, she tops it all off with her Tinted Sunscreen, protecting her skin with a unique broad spectrum SPF33 complex, while harnessing the benefit of its antioxidant power that scavenges free radicals that cause skin aging.If you have yet to use the Antioxidant Sunscreen, I (and obviously Jan) highly recommend it. It smells delicious, it absorbs quickly because of a patented micro-sponge technology (no oily face!) and works actively to both prevent sun damage while promoting healthier skin. Jan’s Tinted Antioxidant Sunscreen has the added benefit of adding a light touch of color, perfect if you don’t want full foundation.

And remember to include the newer Marini SPF45 Physical Protectant for a  paraben-free, chemical-free option.

spf 45So there you have it! Some of Jan’s favorite products, because even she can’t choose just a few. Luckily, you don’t have to choose just a few either, because we will be offering great specials and raffles tomorrow (plus if you bring a friend you both get 20% off a Jan Marini product of choice).

We can’t wait to see you all tomorrow, and we hope you’re as excited about these products as we (and Jan!) are.

Bisous!

Adrienne