JoAnn M. Romeo Aesthetics

Prom and your wedding may be right around the corner, but before this date is spring break, and spring break can cause some gnarly tan lines that show in your dress! Before you venture out to blue skies and endless sun this spring break, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Packing up some toiletries and sunscreen will help you while you are having fun, but taking a few extra steps to prep your skin beforehand can help prevent nasty skin conditions that haunt you through the summer. To prep like a pro, I would like to share some need-to-know tips to help jumpstart your vacation beauty routine in no time. And with some extra getaway-approved beauty essentials to throw in your beach bag, your skin will thank you for all the extra work.

Everyone heard about Hugh Jackman and him urging people to wear sunscreen after he has had several growths removed. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer that develops on skin exposed to the sun, such as the head, neck, and back of hands, but is especially common on the face and nose. I see way more sun damaged skin here, than I ever did when I lived and worked in Florida. I do not know why, as it is sunny and warm all year round, but I do not know that most wear sunscreen to protect them from the harmful rays of the sun. However, if you are still trying to get in somewhat of a tan before spring break, and during the winter months, then the best option is airbrush tanning. You will still need to wear that sunscreen while you are out in the sun on spring break, as this tan will not prevent you from still burning, or protect you from those harmful rays.

Spring is in the air, with the snow melting from the warmer temperatures. Time for vacations with our families and relaxing days by the pools. But wait! When it comes to prepping for Spring Break, I am a big advocate of spray tans, waxing, and hydrating. As colder weather starts to die off and the warmer temperatures come, your skin will go through changes as well. During the winter weather, you will notice your skin and scalp are drier. Oils are not only great for baths and for soft skin, but are also amazing for your hair and scalp. The oils promote a healthy scalp, which in turn, gives you fast growing, shiny hair!

Spring is in the air! The days are getting longer, our coats are soon going to be lighter, and before we know it, we will be trading in heavy sweaters for sunglasses and swimsuits. For those of us who are lucky to live in a place where the weather is getting warmer, you are already ready to throw off those boots and leggings and grab some sandals and sundress. Even those of us who have to endure colder temperatures for a few more weeks, we are feeling the itch to break free from our sweaters and show some skin!  Let us face it, during winter, we pledge to find the thickest, richest body butter, and promise to give our skin some TLC. But underneath the tights, corduroys, hats, sweaters, and scarves, we often neglect our skin, not giving it the moisture or attention it deserves.

Airbrush tanning is the application self-tanners through a pressure spray gun. Most self-tanners contain DHA (Dihydroxyacetone), which is a colorless sugar derived from the sugar-cane plant and is FDA approved for cosmetic purposes since 1973. DHA reacts with the skins protein and amino acids to brown the skin, looking similar to a natural tan. The tan fades as the dead layers of skin slough off, just as in a normal suntan. Advantages of Airbrush Tanning It is safe, with no UVA or UVB ray exposure. It is approved by the FDA (as previously mentioned), and is recommended by dermatologists at the Skin Cancer Foundation. Airbrush is quick – takes about 10 minutes from start to finish. Instant tan results – same results as 5 tanning bed sessions or many hours of laying out in the sun, without the UVA/UVB ray exposure. You will have an even, smooth finish that cannot be mimicked by self-tanning lotions. No odor, streaks, or orange appearance. Airbrush tans last up to 10 days....

Continuing from last week in preparation for spring break trips, here are some waxing tips for your beach trip. Prep-care…Ideally, your hair should be 1/8 to 1/4 inch long for the wax to bind to the base of the hair follicle. Also pair the same day for optimum wax binding and prevention of ingrown hairs, exfoliate the area a day or so before. Caution: do not over exfoliate, which will make the area sensitive and more prone to skin lifting. If this would be your first bikini/Brazilian wax, you should avoid caffeine before your bikini/Brazilian wax. Why? Because caffeine increases energy and sensitivity to pain. You can also take Tylenol an hour prior to your appointment time to also alleviate any discomfort. Your appointment should also not be scheduled 2 to 3 days prior to after your period. Why? Because hormones are released and can also amplify the pain. Aftercare...the following day after being waxed, gently exfoliate the area to prevent ingrown hairs. Body scrubs and...

While your travel plans are coming together and spring break fast approaching, here are some skin care tips to keep in mind. Before you fly, cleanser your face with a soothing cleanser that does not contain harsh drying ingredients of glycolic, alcohol, or benzoyl peroxide. Tone your skin with a soothing toner to prep for your hydrating serums. Flying in recycled air and higher elevations levels, you need to increase epidermal hydration to reduce the drying effect. So, to look your best when you land at your destination, follow these steps. Then apply your makeup after you have landed to prevent it from further drying your skin during your flight. If you feel that your skin in drying during flight, carry a hydration spray with you to prevent your skin from drying out and from instant skin comfort. While packing for your travel destination, think about what type of climate you are heading to. For the ski vacation pack, hydrating products are essential for the cold weather, ...