My first job in high school was working the front desk at a spa. Back then, I got collagen blankets for fun. Now, I get them out of necessity, to prevent sagging and aging skin. I began researching collagen’s miracle like qualities and came to the realization that it’s exactly what my nearly thirty year old skin needs, much more today, than it did at 16. As women age, the collagen and elasticity in our skin slowly diminishes. I felt a facial was in order for a little healthy restoration and pampering.
However, all facials are not created equal. Some can leave you blistered, bruised and in worse condition than you started in. It’s important to be very particular about who tends to your skin. Just as you would be cautious about purchasing random products from your local apothecary, it’s vital to only allow aestheticians with proper industry practices and training to manage your product application. Before starting a new regimen for the skin, it’s best to visit a professional that knows their stuff.
If you’re a first-time spa-goer, be sure to check out the spa’s website to make sure it is up to date, review the services offered and pricing to make sure it is what you are looking for. Read the spa’s policies for cancellations, directions, etc. You can also call the spa and ask for recommendations and possibly go for a tour prior to your appointment. While there, speak to a technician, ask any questions that you feel would make your spa visit more memorable.
I called on Bliss Atlanta Downtown to show me how the best in the biz do their hygienic facial skin rituals. They have several facials that target anti-aging, breakouts, maturing skin, brightening and overall skin health and beauty. The Blissage 75 and the Triple Oxygen facial are their two most requested services.
The Bliss Spa in Downtown Atlanta is a spotlessly clean facility flooded with natural light on the 16th floor of 45 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. They offer complimentary valet parking (unheard of in downtown Atlanta) and a complimentary glass of bubbly. Guests may also use the pool as well if they want to make a day of it.
As I stepped into the spa, I was greeted by one of their homegrown aestheticians, Michelle. As she intro’d me into the marvelous assortment of Bliss and Affiliate products, she began to describe my skin type, “dry and parched with clogged areas.” After perusing the infinite world of lavish, lush facial treatments, I decided to put the Bliss Oxygen Facial to the test.
The hour+ long facial was well encompassed with a glycolic masque, vitamin C polish, and extractions (yuck) and sprayed on micellized vitamins, the ultimate luxe treatment for the skin. She removed a few blemishes from the center of the pore and assured me they would not return in the same place. How’s that for uprooting a problem! My t-zone was a trouble area and after a few squeezes I saw the once there black heads disappear with my own eyes.
I’ve had many facials in my lifetime, I would describe this one as healing, thorough and well versed. Michelle took great care of me and I was able to expand upon the knowledge that I had already gained from working in the spa biz. She really opened my eyes to the problems of my now adult skin and how to better treat my trouble areas. I love to experiment with natural products, so as she explained that hydration starts from within, and that many people should use exfoliation and SPF to avoid wrinkles, my mind started to boil with ideas for at home remedies. However, I had to remind myself to leave it to the experts and Bliss products and not to reinvent the wheel.
The main differentiating qualities of this facial were the plastic covering which created a steam effect and opened my pores and the gel-like masque that was used to penetrate the products. Michelle suggested that I frequent Bliss Spa monthly to bring my skin back to its proper levels of hydration. However, I will be going back within the next two weeks, how’s that for spoiled rotten?
For younger ladies, guests 16 and over can receive the ‘Fabulous Facial’ which is a great way to inspire you to create a skin care regimen early on. And let’s not forget about the fellas, Bliss also offers the “Ultimate He Wax” which is the male version of a Brazilian wax.
If you’re looking for the perfect get ready for summer spa package, I would start off with a full-leg Brazilian wax, the fully loaded facial, followed by the 135 minute Ginger Rub…take a 30 minute break for lunch delivered to the spa with a glass of bubbly and conclude with the shellac manicure and pedicure. Now that’s my idea of a blissful day.
To book your own Oxygen facial, or stock up on Bliss Products, please visit: http://www.BlissWorld.com
