The First Lady of Nails.....JESSICA

Estetica para Profissionais are incredibly proud to be the ONLY distributors of Jessica Cosmetics but who is Jessica and what makes her nail products, in ours and many more, one of the best nail product ranges ever? Estetica para Profissionais's very own Sarah Bruton tells us............. 

Jessica Vartoughian, known as the “First Lady of Nails,” founded Jessica Nail Clinic in 1969. Being the first nail salon of its kind it was the first ever nail only salon.

Jessica Nail Clinic remains the foremost centre of natural nail care with its unique manicure technique and exceptional treatments created by JESSICA.  Known as “Nail Cultivists” all those who use the JESSICA range have all been trained and certified in Jessica’s Nail Cultivation System by JESSICA and before each manicure begins, the Nail Cultivist analyses the client’s nails and prescribes based on the nails’ condition.

JESSICA is a pioneer in the professional nail care industry as she was the first to recognise that like skin and hair, all nails are not alike.  She identified four different nail types – damaged, dry, brittle or normal – and created specific treatments for each type.

JESSICA’s unique nail care philosophy is behind each and every product of her extensive Jessica Cosmetics line that offers products specifically targeted to treat each different nail type.  Natural Nail Care has never looked so good!

Frequented by celebrities of film, television, politics and society, as well as those who simply want lovely natural nails, the Jessica Nail Clinic USA offers elite services that exceed the everyday manicure and pedicure. 

And in the UK, JESSICA can be found in the prestigious Fortnum and Masons who's nail cultivist's will also be polishing our models to perfection at the London Fashion Week.

Today, Jessica and her unique 'System' and product range is successfully offered in over 28 countries.   In all ways, Jessica was at the forefront of both a product and marketing revolution in the multi-million dollar nail care industry that exists today.  And now Portugal has it's very own JESSICA distributor!

So what is the philosophy behind JESSICA?

Q: What Women Want ……..

A:Beautiful Nails!!

Intelligent, informed women want more. They are selective in their use of nail care products. They want to be confident that they are getting the proper treatment for their individual nail condition. From experience we know about the healthful or damaging effects of different products and methods and the effects they have on our nails.

No matter how good a manicure looks at first, its beauty will fade within days without a healthy foundation underneath.

Every part of the Jessica Nail Cultivation System® is about promoting the well-being of the natural nail …and your business. The System is a synthesis of technique, philosophy and products. The cornerstone of the JESSICA System is the ability to analyse and recognize each nail type and treat each nail with specially formulated treatments. Any man or woman can achieve healthy nails with proper care and maintenance.

No nail service is complete without offering your client a kaleidoscope of colour in a wide variety of dazzling shades, textures and finishes.

Your journey into JESSICA has begun…...

If you or your salon/spa would like any more information on the JESSICA products available in Portugal, please get in contact with our JESSICA Representative, Sarah at jessicanailsportugal@gmail.com.  So join the elite and reflect your treatment quality with the products you use - start using JESSICA as your nail products of choice! 

Ware's the Inspiration!

In this month's inspirational people blog we have spoken to Mandy Ware who told us all about her background within the beauty industry, her ambitions within her profession and indeed what/who has inspired her:

Studying my profession

I studied in both Surrey and London and am qualified with a IHBT (1980), Reflexology and Aromatherapy ITEC, and IMA in make-up artistry.

When studying, I really enjoyed the practical side, i.e., meeting and helping people, but what I found particularly hard was the written side since I am slightly dyslexic, but not enough to warrant verbal exams (spell check is my best friend!).  I was however very determined to pass the written exams and worked hard to do so.  Consequently, although not achieving the top grades in the class, I achieved student of the year which I believe was for the sheer effort I put in to achieve the grades I was awarded.

My career to date

Having studied initially in Surrey, I moved to continue my studies in London, also working in Salons and spas in Central London where I went on to run 2 salons. I then moved back to run salons in Surrey, eventually becoming a self-employed mobile therapist and then a therapist on Cruise Ships.  Eventually I ended up here in Portugal working on a freelance basis for a couple of salons.  I do this as I still enjoy the therapy side of my profession….but my new passion is make-up!

After gaining the essential professional make-up qualification I started being asked to do a couple of weddings and then via word-of-mouth more and more. Consequently this part of my career has blossomed. 

I just love being part of someone's big day.  It's a massive responsibility and I take that very seriously.  Emotions run high and you as the make-up artist have to be able to fit in, especially not ‘flapping’ when everyone else is.  Most importantly, when doing make-up you must deliver your best work every time and as if it's a final exam.

My ambition

I adore learning and that will only stop the minute my desire to learn stops.....if that happens it is time to do something else.  So personally I would like to expand the photographic side and catwalk side of my profession.

However being a make-up artist is not all glamour - you are the first person on set, to prepare and set up, and the last to leave.  Your case weighs a ton and you have to take care of your make-up brushes and make-up, specifically in Portugal keeping it cool in high temperatures on location can melt and ruin the products.

What I believe makes a great therapist

To me, what makes a good therapist is a person who is genuinely interested in people and thinks of them before themselves.  Call it a nursing instinct without the blood and dressings! A good interest in human biology is essential as well as a wealth of knowledge in skin conditions and diseases.

I also believe a good therapist also cares about your own appearance (but no in an obsessive way) – you are after all a walking advert! 

Overall, I have had the pleasure of visiting many salons and spas whereby the good ones, to me, are apparent by the clear excellence of their staff who have the above qualities. 

My favourites

When it comes to products, I have no one range that I favour, but like to think that I choose the best for the condition and from a variety of different companies.  Nevertheless I do like Elemis, Liz Earle, Aromatherapy Associates, and a range that a friend of mine has developed over here using organic oils called Pura. 

Regarding treatments, nobody can dismiss the value of relaxation, the benefit of a facial or body massage. But the revelation of sound waves and laser for the regeneration of the skin, to me, is the next big growth area within the industry.  Fads will come and go but I have had the ethos of only doing and selling what I believe in.

Beauty therapy is a great profession, hard work both physically and mentally, but so rewarding! Some of my best friends were and still are my clients.  Not only has my profession given me the fortunate position to travel the world but it has also allowed me to meet some awesome people!

My personal inspirational people

Many people have inspired me - a gentleman who passed away at 92 a few years ago called Mr Donald Rees, my dear friend Sam Spilanne (AKA mrs attention to detail!), Verna Kinder (a lady who has an enormous heart and sharp business acumen) and last but not least my father, Mr Malcolm Elson, who showed me that hard work, compassion, determination, and reading a situation will get you a very long way .......my journey continues thanks to my dad!

Pinda Massage - The Ultimate Detox!

With many people undergoing their ‘January detox’, Pinda massage has become a hot-topic in assisting an integrated detox and relax.  Not just for the new year, the Pinda massage is a fantastic post-massage treatment that provides multiple benefits all year round, making it a valuable skill (and additional revenue source) for therapists to offer clients.

Having originated in Thailand within between 14^th–18^th centuries when Ayutthaya was established, Pinda or Poultice massage has since been used in eastern medicine – being used specifically on soldiers returning home with painful muscles. 

Ancient cultures use the earth's herbs and spices, not only to cleanse, nourish and enhance the body’s physical ability but also to also tone the skin as well as to treat both Vata and Kapha disorders of which are naturally cold doshas.  Consequently a pinda (bolus/ball) massage involves the use of plant pouches - medicinal pillows made from cotton or linen and filled with aromatic mixture of plants, roots, blossoms, exotic fruits, Mediterranean salt and buckwheat, chosen for their stimulating and relaxing properties. Depending on what the client wants to achieve, blends for filling the cotton/linen can be customised accordingly, e.g; relaxing blends use meadow flowers and herbal plants whilst revitalising blends contain a mix of herbs, and captivating blends include a mix of camomile, calendula and lavender.

With a invirogating massage technique applying gentle movements, the pinda is warmed opening the body’s pores allowing the medicinal heat to the muscles which along with the pinda massage oil provide scent, touch and decompressions of contained energy that create a deep sense of relaxation, rejuvenation, peace and harmony and general balancing of inner energy.

Consequently the pinda neutralises negative energy that is often the source of health issues. Recovery is encouraged due to stress decreasing, internal energy re-balancing; and unwanted symptoms being eliminated. During the massage, harmful sedimentary substances are expelled from the body, since the specially concocted healing plant mixture is both absorbed through the skin as well as inhaled through the nose. The massage is fantastic for improving blood circulation, lymph circulation and the metabolism, as well as relieving tension in tight muscles and rebalancing abnormal sleep or eating patterns. It is also an incredible treatment for beautifying the skin, enhancing circulation and drawing fresh energy to the skin’s surface.  The ultimate detox for both spiritual and physical harmony?  It would seem so!

Estetica para Profissionais rate Pinda massage so highly that we are holding a one day workshop for trained massage therapists only.  Costing EUR 100, the workshop will be held on the 2^nd February, (for those wishing to be taught in English), and the 3^rd February, (for those wishing to be taught in Portuguese).  You will learn both the massage techniques of Pinda massage as well as how to make the actual Pinda itself, mixing a beautiful Valentine’s blend with rose petals and jasmin oil- just in time to offer clients a Valentines Day promotion! If you are interested in joining our workshop, contact us today and start promoting your Valentine’s Pinda promotion now!

For information, please contact 00351 282 762 606/00351 913211797 or email: Naomi@algarvebeautyschool.co.uk. 

Indian Head Massage – The Power of Touch!

Indian women originally developed Indian Head Massage as part of their grooming routine, using a wide selection of seasonal oils (almond, mustard, sesame and coconut).  Routines were, and still are, passed on from mother to daughter, teaching that sharing massage with family members shows love and respect. 

Not only this but the Indian Head massage is prevalent in barber shops across India and Asia, with techniques being passed from barber to barber’s son whilst salons in the western world are also increasingly introducing the massage on their treatment menus.  For not only is it an enjoyable and beneficial treatment for the client but it also greatly improves the growth and condition of the hair and scalp – overall the client's salon/barber experience is enriched whilst the stylist’s work enjoyment improves (by adding skills) and the salon’s revenue is able to increase due to a wider treatment menu. 

Not just applicable to hair salons, this is a fantastic skill for any therapist within the beauty and massage industry to have in their repertoire!  But what is an Indian Head massage and why is it such a popular treatment?

The Indian Head massage is a form of Ayurvedic massage.  Ayurveda (meaning “the complete knowledge for long life”), consists of the words ãyus, (i.e., “longevity”) and andveda, (meaning “related to knowledge” or “science”).  It is the oldest recorded Indian healing system, and works on the understanding that to be well physically you have to be well spiritually and mentally/emotionally. Early Ayurvedic texts date back 4000 years and features massage and the holistic approach that health results from harmony in one-self. The Ayurvedic view is that health is maintained by 3 subtle life giving forces or doshas:

·         Vata:  a combination of Air and Ether (the air/atmosphere/upper air/the heavens). It is responsible for all movements of the mind, body and senses, and the process of elimination. The unique characteristic of Vata is dryness.

·         Pitta: is a combination of Fire and Water. It is responsible for heat, energy, metabolism and digestive functions of the body. The unique characteristic of Pitta is heat.

·          Kapha: is a combination of Earth and Water. It is responsible for physical stability, proper body structure and fluid balance. The unique characteristic of Kapha is heaviness.

The underlying principle of Ayurveda is maintaining balance in the body and a healthy balance of doshas, with Ayurvedic customs recommending both men and women should have a weekly Indian Head massage in order to promote soft skin, shiny hair and maintain emotional and physical health via balancing of our chakras.  This is specifically true of our higher chakras where most people carry the most amount of emotional stress. Each Chakra connects with a different part of the body and endocrine system. 

Balancing of 'chakras' means balancing the flow of energy through the body of which an imbalance can result in a feeling of being unsettled and of feeling of being unwell, i.e., the physical, emotional and mental body are not working in harmony with each other.

Using a range of stimulating and vigorous massage techniques this invigorating massage is performed with the client sitting in a chair, as opposed to lying down, since the therapist will have easier access to the shoulders, upper arms, neck, scalp and face - muscles/areas we hold the most tension and stress.  Although it can be carried out using beneficial oils, it can also be performed with the client fully dressed making it suitable to perform anywhere, whilst it is an ideal massage to give to people in wheelchairs, people who don’t want to take their clothes off and/or pregnant women.

This fantastic treatment provides a number of benefits to the client, such as:

·         Relieving tensions that result in headaches, neck and back pain

·         Stimulating lymphatic drainage and therefore detoxing the body

·         Boosting the immune system

·         Improving circulation, consequently increasing energy levels.

·         Increasing clarity and increasing concentration.

·         Calming the respiratory system and therefore soothing asthma symptoms.

·         Adding muscle tone.

·         Relieving sinusitis symptoms.

·         Improving circulation of cerebral spinal fluid.

·         Relieving sleeplessness, restlessness and insomnia.

·         Growth and condition of scalp.

Furthermore this massage can also improve general mental health by:

·         Relieving symptoms of depression/anxiety

·         Providing stress relief and encouraging relaxation

·         Increase concentration and memory levels

·         Promoting feelings of peace, calm and wellbeing.

Consequently, EpP – Algarve Beauty School will be holding a 12 week Indian Head massage course (starting 24^th Feb) for complete beginners who will learn about the body’s systems and effects the Indian Head massage techniques have.  This course also teaches about the chakras, auras and also includes ear candling (also known as thermo-auricular therapy). 

Another version of this course is also available to more experienced massage therapists as a 1.5 day workshop (on 5^th and 26^th Feb) – ideal for therapists looking to increase their skills and learn new techniques - case studies will need to be provided. 

For more information on these, please contact the school on tel: 282762606 or email Naomi at naomi@algarvebeautyschool.co.uk

New Year, New Inspirations!

At Estetica para Profissionais (EpP), we have set ourselves a New Year’s resolution – to bring to you some of the most inspirational people within the beauty industry from here in the Algarve as well as further afield.

This resolution came about when Naomi, Director of EpP - the Algarve Beauty School, observed “the classic thing I hear many people doing is comparing themselves negatively to other people…by all means look at other people but look for inspiration. Find traits you like and enjoy and be inspired.” 

As such once every month, the Algarve Beauty Blog will be questioning key people we believe to be inspirational, kicking off with Sarah Bruton, owner of Innovation Health & Beauty in Ferragudo and employed by EpP, Algarve Beauty School as the ONLY Jessica Sales Representative within Portugal:

Name:  Sarah Bruton

What qualification(s) do you have:   ITEC Aesthetics, ITEC Physiatrics

Where did you study?   East Berkshire College, Berkshire

What did you most enjoy about studying and what did you find most challenging?

I enjoyed the theory side of learning my profession, especially biology  -  I never realised how interesting the human body was until I started my Beauty Therapy course.  I found Latin challenging as spelling mistakes were not accepted! Also the acceptance of the human body -  you no longer look at a person as a whole picture, you focus on the parts you are working on.  It’s no longer a whole face it’s a beautifully natural shaped eyebrow.  You work on enhancing the best features someone has.

What is your current job role and where do you work?

I have my own Beauty Therapy business in Portugal [Innovation Health & Beauty] - I have a small salon and also work on a mobile basis as well.   I also am a sales representative for a Professional Nail Products range [Jessica Nails].  

What do you find rewarding about your current job and what do you find challenging about it?

I find the fact that I make people feel good about themselves very rewarding.  People come to you if they have a problem with their skin, weight, nails or are in need of relaxation. I can help with all of these things with either a treatment or even just by recommending things that they can use to correct their problem.

Dealing with the public can always be challenging however given that the beauty field is doing something that makes people feel good about themselves and makes them happy, it is far less challenging than in other sectors.

      What are your next steps in your career development and where would you like to see yourself in the future?

I enjoy my current profession it can be challenging on my body as I have been doing it for around 16 years now but I enjoy the fact I constantly meet new people and also see others on a regular basis.

I enjoy the Sale Representative job [for Jessica Nails] which I do alongside, and in conjunction with, my business I find it constantly challenging.

What do you think makes a good beauty therapist?

To listen, to be knowledgeable, to make people feel comfortable in your working environment and know you are only as good as your last client.

What do you think makes a good Spa or Salon?

Ambiance, attention to detail, warmth and a calm atmosphere  are key.

What is your favourite product range?

Elimis

What is your favourite treatment to have and give?

I have each treatment depending on how I feel and as to what will make me happy. With regards to giving treatments, I do not have a favourite as I enjoy variety in my working week.

 Beauty Therapy is one of the happiest sectors to work in according to City and Guilds, would you agree?

Definitely!!!  I love it!

Please tell us about someone who has inspired you and why? – can be in the industry or not.

My mum! She never gives up, always strives to be better and most importantly always listens to me when necessary and never pushes her opinion on to me BUT always tries to help me whenever she can.

We hope you have enjoyed reading what we believe makes Sarah and inspirational figure within the beauty industry.  If you would like to visit Sarah's salon, her salon is Innovation Health & Beauty tel:  282 353 132/Mob: 965638671.  And if you would like to contact Sarah with regards to the Jessica Nails range now available to purchase within Portugal, please email her on jessicanailsportugal@gmail.com or contact the Algarve Beauty School directly where 

Naomi will also be happy to help.  Telephone 00351 282762606 or visit Estetica para Profissionais, 

Rua Salgueiro Maia 29A, 8600-620, Lagos.

Merry Christmas & a VERY Happy and Beautiful 2014!!!
Thank you all for reading the Algarve Beauty Blog - We look forward to bringing you more blog posts in the new year.

All I want for Christmas.....is a Beauty Promotion!

At the time of year clients are flocking to have all things health and beauty carried out for whatever festive shin-digs they have coming up.  Not only this, when visiting salons it is an opportunity to purchase some of the beautiful Christmas beauty gifts and, for salons, the ideal time to boost retail sales.  It is therefore so important that salons ensure stock and/or vouchers sold are chosen and displayed in a way to make them sought after and on as many Christmas wish lists as possible.  Efforts therefore include window displays, shelf displays and even toilet displays, positioning the Christmas stock as attractively and prominent as possible.  In addition to this, staff can make personalised recommendations when carrying out treatments ensuring particular products and gift sets are front of mind for the client when thinking about their Christmas wish lists and/or shopping.

We asked a number of salons around the Algarve what they are doing throughout December to maximise treatment as well as retail profit over this busy Christmas period?

Firstly, of course, we have ourselves.  Estetica para Professionais – Algarve Beauty School, can provide lovely gifts to the Beauty Professional.  This could be one of our courses, workshops and/or one of the number of exclusive brands (e.g., Crybaby, ilash, Jessica, Hive Beauty range) on sale at our school in Lagos (available to purchase on-line – http://shop.algarvebeautyschool.co.uk).  If you wish to train as a City & Guilds qualified therapist or top-up your skills, keeping up-to-date with modern treatments for your treatment menu, put vouchers on your Santa Christmas list.  We offer vouchers for monetary or indeed for specific courses.  Call: 00351 282762606 Mobile: 00351 913211797 for details.

The Hair & Beauty Studio at Vila Sol in Vilamoura are displaying a selection of Elemis gift boxes and vouchers making gorgeous gifts.  In addition to this they are running a special winter promotion of a ‘Top to Toe treatment which includes a facial, massage, manicure and pedicure for EUR 99’ and is valid until Febuary 28^th’.  The Hair and Beauty Studio is at, Loja 18, Vila Sol Shopping, Vilamoura, telephone 289 098 680.

Bodyworx Beauty & Fitness are encouraging clients to 'make a healthy choice' for 2014 and to spoil your loved ones with a Bodyworx gift voucher.  They also direct people to their Facebook page for any other up and coming Christmas offers.   Bodyworx salon is at Balaia Plaza Hotel Apartments, St Eulalia, Albufeira.  Call Debbie today and wake up to a new you on 91674550

Innovation Health and Beauty are offering 10% off luxury manicure and pedicure treatments this winter using heated mitts and booties, leaving you feeling toastie warm and relaxed whilst choosing your favourite winter colour from thier vast Jessica nail varnish range! 

And finally Chantal’s Hair & Beauty have some marvellous Christmas gift sets on display and are doing some additional great deals on their product range!  For example should the client buy a conditioner and treatment, they will be given a shampoo of choice completely free as a Christmas present!  Or 500ml shampoos, conditioners and masks for the price of a 250ml bottles.  Additionally, if you book your appointment before the 7th of December for the week running up to Christmas you'll receive a 10% discount!!

Chantal’s Hair & Beauty and Innovation Health & Beauty are collaborative and therefore both at the same address of Edificio Vasco Da Gama, Rua Vasco Da Gama No 37, 8400 253 Ferragudo, Lagoa, tel:  282 353 132

We hope you all have a great December business-wise and ensure to use the month to maximise retail sales.  Most importantly Merry Christmas!!