Massage is more than a luxury!

Massage as a healing tool has been around for thousands of years in many cultures. Touching is a natural human reaction to pain and stress, and for conveying compassion and support. We now have scientific proof of the benefits of massage ranging from treating chronic disease and injuries to alleviating the growing tensions of our modern lifestyles. Having a massage does more than just relax your body and mind but there are specific physiological and psychological changes which occur, even more so when massage is utilized as a preventative, frequent therapy and not simply mere luxury. Massage not only feels good but can cure what ails you.

The Need for Touch

As a society, we are touch deprived and this can lead to disease and emotional dysfunction. From the cradle to the nursing home, tactile stimulation and emotional assurance of caring touch bring about a sense of well-being and security.

The Consequences of Stress

Experts estimate that 89 to 90 percent of disease is stress-related. Massage is there to combat that number by helping us remember what it means to relax. The physical changes massage brings to your body can have a positive effect in many areas of your life.

The Benefits of Massage

In the age of technical and, at time, impersonal medicine, massage offers a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach based on the body's natural ability to heal itself. What exactly are the benefits to receiving regular massage?

Written by,
Christine Norris CMT Certified Massage Therapist

Bridal

Before you say "I Do".  Makeup!

Congratulations to all of the brides to be in 2015 and I am just now getting started booking all of my bridal parties for the year.  It's going be an exciting year for weddings and I am looking forward to creating some pretty exciting bridal looks.

Monique Lhuillieri Spring 2015

Love it or hate it, the biggest bridal trends for hair and makeup this year are structured buns, minimalist makeup, red lips and pink lips.  Minimalist makeup is all about creating a radiant and flawless complexion so it's time to get booked with my estheticians for regular facials leading up to your big day ladies.  It's also important that during your trial that we select the perfect shade of foundation that based upon your skin is luminous yet has the ability to look picture perfect into the evening.  During your personalized trial we will discuss your individual style and create a look you are comfortable with.  I'm thinking demi lashes, bright cheeks, bold lips or sultry eye makeup.  Give us a call at 812-232-1676 and ask for my 2015 availability.

Jeremy Logsdon

Are you ready for Spring?

Are you ready for Spring?

It may not look like Spring outside but Merle Norman is warming things up a bit with a new color collection debuting March 1st.  Check out this behind the scenes look featuring celebrity makeup artist Spencer Barnes. 

Two new trios hit shelves that promise to start off our 2015 Color Collections with a bang.  All six shades are must-haves for subtle spring eyes paired with Soft Touch Eyeliner in Royalty that delivers a pop of spring color.  Ombre cheekcolor allows you to adjust your cheekcolor from light to bright.  Turn up or turn down the volume on cheeks with this truly unique blush.  Last but not least four amazing lipcolors that range from neutral to bright to match any wardrobe or skin tone.  We can't wait to show you what's new for spring so stop in for your Free Spring Makeover!

Hello Everyone,
        This is Emily, your friendly Esthetician here at Merle Norman. Today we will be tackling the facts and myths behind chemical peels. Most of my clients find the subject of peels very overwhelming and lets face it, scary. Have no fear, my friends. Today, I am only focusing on two types of peels, Glycolic and Enzyme. Keep in mind that I am talking about medical grade peels that contain up to 30% acid. Stronger peels can be obtained through a dermatologist or plastic surgeon and yes, those can be pretty scary but those we will save for another post. The peels that I administer here at the spa produce results and require no down time. Alright, lets get down to business.

Glycolic acid: Glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane. This peel is actually an alpha hydroxy acid, aka AHA. Aha's are acids that assist in reversing the signs of aging. They contain a smaller molecular structure, which means the molecules move faster creating a stronger sensation on the skin. This is why you are more likely to feel a "tingle" when receiving a glycolic peel vs. an enzyme peel. Since the molecules are smaller, they work from the surface of the skin, down into the dermis. They are able to penetrate the skin faster and more aggressively which is why clients will sometimes experience some redness.This peel is great for clients concerned with hyper pigmentation, age spots, scaring due to acne or even surgeries and wrinkles.  Clients are often concerned that since this peel works at a faster pace than others, that it will be painful and actually make their skin peel off. Literally peel off....Like, this image comes to mind.

Calm down! Its not that bad! When I say peel, I am referring to a microscopic peel. Yes your skin is peeling, but it is microscopic. Your skin will feel smoother and appear more radiant than before. You will not look like a zombie from the Walking Dead, I promise.

Alright, now lets move on to the Enzyme peel:
Enzyme peels are usually derived from fruit extracts. Papaya, pumpkin and even apples are some of the most common fruits used in these peels. Enzyme peels are made up of beta hydroxy acids (BHA's) which aid in the killing of bacteria. They have a larger molecular structure so the molecules move slower. Bha's work from inside the skin, outward. These peels are ideal for clients who have sensitive skin or even acne. Since the molecules move at a slower pace, you really will not feel a thing with this peel but will feel and see the results.

O.k. now lets focus on just a few things that make up the peel experience. When receiving a peel (especially from me) we will discuss your needs and decide which peel will be right for your skin. When choosing a peel, you also need to consider your lifestyle. Do you spend a lot of time outside? Were you a sun worshiper when you were younger, or are you still? What I am trying to say is, do you look like this?

                                                                         Or this?

If the answer is yes, or seeing those pictures made you think that maybe you had been spending a little too much time in the tanning bed, THEN STOP! One of the biggest reason why clients get chemical peels is because of sun damage. If you decide to commit to healthier skin, you must use an SPF! Remember, when receiving a peel we will be microscopically removing the outermost layer of your skin. You must protect it! You must also keep your skin hydrated! Moisturizing daily is imperative. So now you can understand why your lifestyle is important. You also need to consider your schedule. Peels should really be done in a series to achieve maximum results. One treatment, every two weeks is ideal when starting out. After that, once a month is great!  The steps involved in the peel process are pretty simple. Your skin in cleansed, followed by the peel. Most medical grade peels only stay on the skin for 5-7 minutes. Some enzyme peels can stay on up to 10. After your peel is removed, clients usually enjoy a soothing mask. This process takes about 20-30 minutes and the results are immediate. 

So there you have it! I think we can all agree that peels are not as intimidating or scary as we once thought they were, right? Thank you all for stopping by and remember "Beautiful skin requires commitment, not a miracle." ~Emily Richards~ Lead Esthetician for Merle Norman Day Spa, Terre Haute,In. 812-232-1676

The Perfect Valentine's Day Surprise

Hey gentlemen.  Are you racking your brain to come up with the perfect gift for Valentine's Day?  Are you asking yourself what do women want for Valentine's Day?  Let us help you out.  

Ladies want for you to make them feel important and to give a little thought and romance into creating the day.  No matter your budget, you can create a Valentine's Day she will remember forever.  Simply cooking a romantic dinner at home, complete with candlelight and champagne, can show her you love her and you value everything she does.  Can't cook?  Make reservations at her favorite restaurant and bring roses but don't take her to a chain restaurant with a 20 to 30 min wait.  Spend some time with her by scheduling a his/her spa day before the big date.  We offer his/her chocolate pedicures this Valentine's Day complete with champagne and chocolate covered strawberries or treat her to a 60 min facial and while you wait treat yourself to a 60 min massage.  Whatever you decide above all else, let her know you have taken the time and effort to make your couples day both romantic and meaningful.  

Why choose a Chocolate Pedicure!

  There are many health benefits of chocolate from detoxification to stimulating the circulatory system.  It is well know the aromatherapy from chocolate invokes a euphoric and feel good experience.  That is why we are offering a calorie-free treatment that combines all the benefits of chocolate in a relaxing spa pedicure.  You will melt in a relaxing mineral foot bath that will soak away rough callused skin and foot tension.  After you are treated to cuticle and nail work our technicians will administer a chocolate scrub that will not only soften the skin but release aromatherapy that will have you smiling instantly.

Next up is a chocolate mousse mask that will detox your feet.  Did you know many stored toxins can easily and effectively be released through the soles of the feet?  The caffeine added to the mask will increase circulation helping with firmer skin and cold feet.  Lastly, feet and legs are massaged using a chocolate butter cream moisturizer that seals in all the benefits of the chocolate and leaves skin silky smooth. Hint:  Speak with your technician during your massage on whether you enjoy a light pressure or a deeper touch and don't forget to grab some hot tea from our beverage area to warm yourself up in this cold weather.

Welcome to the Merle Norman Day Spa Blog!

  Do you love our Day Spa and Store?  You are going to love our blog.  Weekly posts from our staff offering advice on makeup, skin care, nails and massage.  Learn how to get the most from your spa visits and tips on how to relax, I mean really relax.  

Jeremy Logsdon