Lose weight, feel great (for real!) and detoxify with ProLon’s scientific approach to fasting.

Disclosure: I was given a complimentary fasting kit for this review. This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click and buy, we get a small percentage of the sale. See our full disclosure policy for details.

No, I’m not a huge fan of intermittent fasting. It sounds like a terrible idea. I know, I know, science. But to me, fasting is like skydiving. Why would you choose to jump out of a plane with a makeshift umbrella strapped to your back and hope you don’t die? Insanity. Same with fasting. Why would you choose not to eat when your stomach is growling and your energy tank is on empty (outside of religious reasons)? Just stay comfortably seated with your seatbelt fastened and eat a sandwich.

So, when I was offered the opportunity to test out the ProLon 5-Day Fasting Mimicking Diet program, I really had to think about it. Could I do it? Why would I do it? How would I deal with prepping family meals for five days without grabbing a fork? Would I make it through happy hour without my daily glass of wine? Would this be a good experience for me or would it be miserable every step of the way?

Well, I said yes. I set goals. And I answered my own questions. Here’s my experience with the Prolon Fasting program.

Preparations

The ProLon Meal Program box arrives neatly packed with each of the five days separately boxed along with a water bottle, detailed instructions and a quick reference guide. Each of the five boxes contain plant-based energy bars, soups, snacks, teas and supplements for each day. According to the company, the daily nutrients have been carefully studied and designed to nourish your body, support cellular rejuvenation, and support metabolic and overall health for healthy aging.

ProLon Fast Day 1

Like any radical dietary change, the first day is always the toughest. I was filled with anxiety … and excitement … and a little dread. I decided to start on this particular Monday because my second Covid vaccination was scheduled for that Sunday. I figured the best thing I could do to prepare for the shot was to eat a clean diet and hydrate like crazy.

The morning bar and lunch meals rather satisfying. The evening soup was not my favorite but what I learned by Day 2 was to pay close attention to the package directions. The evening soups NEED TO BE COOKED on the stove as directed (not microwaved). 

The only issue I had was a tummy gurgle that stuck with me throughout the day.

Day 1 Realization: I can fall asleep just fine without a glass of wine (or three).

Day 2

On Day 2, you add the L-Drink, which has an Alice in Wonderland-type feel to it in that it’s a little bottle that you don’t drink until properly diluted according to your weight. Once you have the right amount, you pour it into the provided water bottle and pop in a hibiscus tea bag if you so choose (do it, it’s lovely!). The slightly sweet and citrusy L-Drink gives you energy throughout the day. 

On the whole, Day 2 was good. It gets you settled in and in the groove for Day 3, which was the hardest day of the fast for me.

Day 2 Realization: I eat for a ton of reasons which seldom include hunger — boredom, distraction, frustration, hurt feelings.Need to stop that. 

Day 3

The third day is definitely the most challenging. I’ll start with the good news. A side effect of this program — or maybe it’s part of their plan — is that it had the effect of a colon cleanse. I won’t get into the details but let’s just say, bloating and the tummy gurgling were gone.

It took all my strength not to grab a fork and dig into my son’s mac and cheese that evening. But I made it over the hump and I was starting to feel good.

Day 3 Realization: I rely on cheese and dairy entirely too much. This was a biggie. What I mean is that the good things in life — like cheese, butter, bread, wine, chocolate — should be accessories not the outfit. I have to make vegetables and whole grains the centerpiece of my diet and not vice versa.

Day 4

Today, I woke up HUNGRY. My tummy was all better and I definitely had a lighter feeling. Pushed through it. Survived.

Day 5

Ahhh, Day 5! Elation. I made it. 

Not that my major goal was losing weight (we all know that a quick and drastic weight loss is bound to be short-lived) but I did drop 4 pounds. And I really did feel much lighter, less bloated and in a good mindset. I dusted off my “How Not to Die Cookbook” and picked out a few recipes that actually now looked delicious.

So what next?

ProLon recommends a Day 6 diet of light, small meals and transitioning into a regular healthy diet by Day 7. 

I don’t mean to be overly dramatic, but this program changed my entire attitude toward food. I couldn’t go back to the same way of eating. 

And I haven’t.

What started with a few dishes from the cookbook made me realize that “not dying” involved not relying on dairy for protein. See, I’ve eaten vegetarian for the most part for most of my adult life. I gave in to eating more meat when we adopted our son and I felt like I’d be a bad mom if I didn’t make sure we had a slab of meat on the dinner table a few days a week. Plus my husband likes burgers. But the fast sent me down a trail I’ve always taken a few steps down and then rushed back to the other path. Going vegan always sounded so hard. And vocal vegans can have a better-than-thou piety that I can’t stand. And plus, it seemed like a dreary existence.

But so far, it’s been more like a journey of discovery. I’ve lost another 10 pounds and I feel lighter and clear-headed. As my husband says, I’m following my heart and my heart feels good about not eating animals (dairy and eggs have a component of animal suffering that I won’t expand on but many of you already know these industries aren’t the most humane).

So you could say this fast changed my life. I’m still not going to jump out of a plane but this change in attitude is one worth it to me.

Get started on your own journey at prolonfast.com.

The post How to Fast Without Fasting: ProLon 5-Day Fasting Mimicking Diet appeared first on Arizona Spa Girls.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our full disclosure policy for details.

In most corners of the country, folks are bundled up from head to toe and shoveling snow. Not here in Phoenix. No sir. Valley dwellers are out and about and making the most of our excellent winter weather. Only thing is, our arid air coupled with sun and wind equals dry skin and hair. We’ve got the do-it-yourself natural beauty hacks for winter skin and hair including a few tricks we’ve kept neatly tucked up our fleece sleeves. 

Chapped Lips: Sweet Kiwi Lip Treatment

A simple sugar scrub like our Hot Lips Scrub can help relieve chapped lips of flaking skin and dryness. We’ve taken it up a notch with the addition of pureed kiwi, which is packed with vitamin C and E. All you need is one ripe kiwi fruit, sugar and a carrier oil (sweet almond, jojoba or whatever you have on hand). 

Start by peeling and pureeing the kiwi. Add about 6 tablespoons of sugar and a few drops of oil to about half of the kiwi puree. Gently massage the delicious mixture on lips for at least 20 second and then rinse (or just lick off!).. Follow with a nourishing lip balm and you’re good to go.

TIP: Go for a lip balm with sunscreen to keep your pucker conditioned and protected. We like Jack Black’s Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25 (no, it’s not just for guys!).

Lackluster Skin: Hydrating Chia Seed & Honey Mask

Shake off the mid-winter skin blues with a hydration-boosting skin treatment. The chia seeds deliver a surge of antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids while soothing inflammation. Honey is the ultimate hydrator and skin conditioner. The lactic acid in the yogurt will brighten and gently exfoliate. For super dry skin, skip the yogurt and add a touch more honey. 

To make the mask, mix 2 tablespoons of chia seeds with ¼ cup of plain yogurt and 2 teaspoons of honey. Apply the mixture on clean skin and leave on for up to 15 minutes. Massage gently as you rinse off the mask and follow up with your regular routine.

TIP: Keep the good chi going with a daily dose of Organic Chia Seed Oil. Use it like a serum under moisturizer to battle irritation and dryness.

Dry, Itchy Scalp: Rosemary Hot Oil Treatment

Scratching your head with a little too much gusto lately? Your scalp might be crying out for a little HOT (hot oil treatment). Castor oil is a star player in this scalp therapy treatment with a host of benefits including increasing shine, treating dandruff, promoting hair growth and thickening hair. The drawback though is that it’s thick and takes some work to remove. Thin it out with carrier oils and add a boost of rosemary oil for extra conditioning.

Start by heating up two cups of water in a small pot. While the water heats up, mix 1 tablespoon of castor oil, 5 tablespoons of sweet almond oil (or grapeseed or jojoba) in a plastic squirt bottle. Add 6 drops of rosemary essential oil. Shake up the bottle to mix your ingredients. Remove the water from the stove just before it boils. Place your oil mixture bottle in the water for a few minutes to warm it up. (Resist the urge to microwave or directly cook the oils on the stove because they will lose nutrients). Massage into clean, damp hair.  Wrap hair in a towel or shower cap for 20 minutes. Shampoo and condition as usual.

TIP: Experiment with the best mix of oils for your hair type. For extremely dry hair, add a few tablespoons of melted coconut oil.

More winter skincare tips:

• Never go to bed uncovered! Keep natural petroleum jelly or diaper balm (yes, you read that right!) next to your bedside for conditioning knuckles, heels and lips. Burt’s Bees makes a great all-purpose balm.
• Does your summer bronzer look blotchy on winter skin? Mix a few drops of self-tanner into your nighttime moisturizer and apply to cheeks and low neck.
• Brighten dull winter skin with a shimmer stick. (try this inexpensive highlighter stick from Maybelline. Swipe above cheekbones, below brow arch and bridge of nose to brighten skin.

Featured photo courtesy: Bruno Scramgnon

The post Natural Beauty Hacks for Winter Skin & Hair appeared first on Arizona Spa Girls.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click and buy, we get a small percentage of the sale. See our full disclosure policy for details.

I don’t know about you but I feel as fluffy as a Stay Puft marshmallow. My skin is blaaah and my energy level has dipped down to a new low.

High time for a detox. 

To start this journey, I did two things. First, I unsubscribed from a ton of daily recipe emails. One more “Mom’s Best Ooey Gooey Chocolate Cake” recipe in my inbox and my Puft is bound to Stay. And second, I got a couple new reads. The first one I cracked open is the “How Not to Die Cookbook.” by Dr. Michael Greger and Gene Stone. My 7-year-old son gagged on the first dish I made from this plant-based cookbook. Grrr. I’ll keep at it though. 

The second book I got was “Clean Skin from Within” by Dr. Trevor Cates, aka, The Spa Doctor. This one’s more my speed and even better, Dr. Cates has kid-friendly recipes, a few that she says her kids even like helping prepare. Her book lays out a 2-week nutritional overhaul to restore the health of your skin and your overall well-being. The best news of all is that she gave us permission to share a few nutrient-packed recipes along with a home spa mask to brighten your complexion.

So let’s dig in! Let’s start this year off together with a little less marshmallow and a whole lot of leafy greens. Happy New Year! 

Detox from Within: The Spa Dr. Healthy Skin Prescription

According to Dr. Cates, smoothies have an advantage over raw juicing because they retain fiber, which is essential for our digestive system and they make you feel full. She warns though not to overdo the fruit and to sneak in green leafy veggies like spinach and kale. If you crave a sweeter flavor, she suggests pitted dates, stevia or a dash on cinnamon. Here’s her tropical smoothie, which our whole family loves. It’s so filling and delicious!

Tropical Smoothie

• 1 cup organic unsweetened coconut mil
• ½ cup chopped papaya
• ¼ avocado
• ¼ cup chopped pineapple
• ¼ cup unsweetened organic coconut flakes
• 2 pitted dates
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds 
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• Handful of ice made from filtered water
• Dash of stevia powder (optional)

Combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

Take up your smoothies a notch with The Spa Dr. All-In-One Daily Shake at thespadr.com.

Crisp Antioxidant Salad

I love salads and my body functions so much better when I eat one a day. This recipe is a mix of high antioxidant ingredients along with the necessary fats for glowing skin. Be sure not to skimp on the nuts! Dr. Cates says raw nuts are a nutrient-dense food full of vitamin E and fatty acids essential for healthy skin.

For salad:

• 5 ounce package of power greens, baby kale or salad mix
• 1 carrot, cut into thin matchsticks
• ½ cup cooked kidney or red beans, or canned, rinsed and drained
• ½ organic Granny Smith apple, cut into thin wedges
• ½ cup chopped raw pecans
• ½ cup fresh organic blueberries
• ¼ cup pomegranate seeds (optional)

For dressing:

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Himalayan salt or Celtic sea salt
• Pepper

Toss the salad ingredients in a large salad bowl. Whisk the dressing ingredients in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the salad with the dressing and enjoy!

If you’re ready for a nutritional overhaul, head to thespadr.com.

Oat, Green Tea and Yogurt Face Mask

Here’s Dr. Cates’ recipe for a soothing, anti-inflammatory mask appropriate for all skin types.

• ¼ cup oat flour
• 2 tablespoons plain organic yogurt
• 1 tablespoon green tea, cooled

Mix together ingredients in a small blow and apply. Leave on for 10 to 20 minutes and rinse with warm water.

Take the step toward better skin with The Spa Dr. Daily Essentials 4-Step Skin Care System. BONUS! Save on your purchase with our exclusive discount!

Wishing you a happy, healthy, glowing new year!

The post The Spa Doctor’s Detox Recipes for Healthy Skin appeared first on Arizona Spa Girls.

What’s the best way to bring out the natural glow in your skin. A deep cleansing, nourishing body scrub of course. The brown sugar in this lush and lovely honey-kissed body scrub banishes lackluster, dead skin cells while the rich natural oils feed in reviving nourishment and hydration. The bit o’ honey helps to keep skin dewy and happy. Go ahead, love thyself!

Here’s what you need:

• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
• 1 tablespoon almond oil
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 5-7 drops orange essential oil
• dash of cinnamon

Here’s what you do:

Mix ingredients thoroughly in a glass bowl. In the shower, gently scrub all over body focusing on knees, elbows and any dry areas. Rinse and be sure to seal in the moisture with a light body moisturizer.

• More DIY body treatments.
• More home spa honey recipes.

The post I Am Radiant DIY Brown Sugar Body Scrub appeared first on Arizona Spa Girls.

Featured photo courtesy: www.freepik.com.

Our definition of the spa experience expands beyond the world of facials and massages. For us, the spa state-of-mind also incorporates healthy eating, mindful movement and an inner core draped in gratitude and generosity. We also believe that you don’t have to shell out your life savings to carve out your own slice of spa. So in the spirit of mindful movement, we dug up what we think are among the best free YouTube yoga classes and amp up your own home spa fit-ability.

Oh, and why yoga? Yoga is a practice accessible to anyone at any physical level. It also widely found at resort and destination spas across the globe. But don’t worry, once you start looking, you’ll find free videos on everything from zumba to belly dancing! Now on to the best free yoga videos.

Yoga Workout for Beginners

If you know absolutely nothing about yoga, this video is a great place to start. Yoga with Adriene walks you through a basic 20-minute home yoga workout. Another good one for beginners is this Yoga for Beginners with Makeba. Both offer clear instructions to set you off on the right foot.

Yoga for Weight Loss

Rev up your metabolism with this quick power yoga session with yoga instructor Svati Patangay of Stylecraze Yoga.

Yoga for Detoxing

This 20-minute sequence of stretches and twists from Yoga Journal help cleanse and detoxify organs and clear the minds. Instructor Kathryn Budig uses descriptive terms to lead you through the movements.

Yoga Buns Workout

Always upbeat and smiling, Denise Austin guides you through an energetic 30-minute yoga workout focusing on your buns from BeFit.

Standing Yoga Poses

Take your yoga practice outside with these heart-opening yoga poses led by yoga instructor Taj Paxton.

Flow Yoga

A powerful 50-minute yoga flow session with a scenic ocean background. Instructor Kathlem Holm leads poses are that clearly and exquisitely demonstrated.

Yoga for Sleep

At the end of a long, grueling day, dust off your mat and just relax. This 10-minute bedtime yoga video with Mel Douglas of the Black Women’s Yoga Collective will do the trick. Another good one is a 30-minute video from PsycheTruth. Both will prepare you for a good night’s sleep.

Yoga for Kids (and Laughs)

Got kids? YouTube also has a ton of free yoga videos geared toward kids. Among them, Cosmic Kids Yoga is wildly popular for their high-energy colorful sessions. Of course, a great place to start with your child is to practice alongside him or her. Be patient though. Yoga is an imperfect practice, no matter where you are or who you are with. Here’s a video that might make you smile. Namaste.

What are your favorite yoga videos to practice with at home? Do share by commenting below!

The post Spa Fit Secrets: The Best Free Yoga Videos for Every Level appeared first on Arizona Spa Girls.

Proper hydration is obviously an important aspect to staying healthy—especially when you’re knee-deep in sweltering desert air. But water can be, well, boring. So we looked to the spas for tasty, healthy drinks (okay, and a few that aren’t so healthy but hey, it’s hot out!) that keep our moisture meters on full. Raise your glasses to warm weather with these delish spa cocktails, mocktails and more.

Smoothies

Pomegranate Paradise

• 1/8 cup pomegranate juice
• 1/8 cup mango puree
• 1/4 cup strawberries
• 1/4 cup blueberries

Crush about a cup of ice in a blender. Add ingredients and mix until smooth. Recipe courtesy of Mii amo, a Destination Spa at Enchantment Resort, Sedona, www.miiamo.com.

Honeydew Melon Smoothie Recipe

• 1/4 of a honeydew melon
• 1/4 of a 2.5-inch Hot House Cucumber
• Juice of one lime
• 10 fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/2 cup soy milk
• 15 fresh mint leaves
• 8 leaves of baby spinach
• Juice of 1/4 lemon
• 1 kiwi, peeled
• 1 cup ice
• 1/2 cup club soda
• 1 teaspoon agave nectar or as needed

Combine all ingredients and blend until smooth. Adjust consistency with Ice and Club Soda as needed. Recipe courtesy of Chef Michel Pieton, Golden Door Spa Cafe, www.goldendoor.com.

Mocktails

H2 Tini

• 1 fresh lime wedge
• 1/2 cup fresh watermelon juice
• 1/4 cup sparkling pear or apple cider
• 4 sprigs cilantro
• 1/3 cup crushed ice

Squeeze lime into cocktail shaker and add peel. Add remaining ingredients and shake. Pour into martini glass. Garnish with fruit. Recipe courtesy of Canyon Ranch Kitchens, www.canyonranch.com.

POM Julep

• 1 oz. POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice
• 1 1/2 oz. grapefruit juice
• 1/2 oz. freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/2 oz. honey syrup (mix two parts honey with one part hot water and stir to dissolve, cool)
• 2 mint sprigs

Bruise 1 mint sprig in bar mixing glass with honey syrup. Add remaining ingredients and shake over ice. Strain over ice into a chilled rocks glass. Garnish with the remaining mint. Recipe courtesy POM Wonderful, www.pomwonderful.com.

Cocktails

The Rim’s Pink Grapefruit Martini

• 1 1/2 oz. Absolut Ruby Red
• 1 oz. Captain Morgan
• 1/2 oz. Cointreau
• 2 oz. Pink Grapefruit Juice

Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass with a sugar coated rim and garnish with a cherry. Recipe courtesy of The Rim at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, www.kierlandresort.com.

POM Squeeze

• 2 oz. Pomegranate Blackberry POM Tea
• 1 1/2 oz. vodka
• 2 oz. tonic
• 2 oz. fresh orange juice
• mint leaves

Muddle the mint leaves in the bottom of a highball glass with half of the tea. Add ice and the remaining ingredients. Stir and garnish with the mint sprig. Recipe courtesy POM Wonderful, www.pomwonderful.com.

Photo courtesy POM Wonderful

The post Mmm! Spa-inspired Cocktails, Mocktails & Smoothies appeared first on Arizona Spa Girls.

It happened by accident, really. Becoming vegan. I was just off a detox (more here) and decided to brush the dust off a cookbook titled “How Not to Die.” After making a few recipes, I noticed something. None of the dishes had meat, dairy or eggs. And they tasted good. And I felt good. Belly bloat was at an all-time low and my energy levels were at an all-time high. I soon realized that a plant-based diet just works for me. It’s not always easy and it’s not for everyone, including members of my household, but it’s the right path for me. 

One downside? I end up with a lot of weird ingredients in my kitchen that I don’t always use before they go bad. That got me rethinking some of my favorite DIY beauty concoctions. Could I use some of these ingredients in some new home spa potions? Oh heck yeah!

Here are three worthy of a dip into your own vegan journey.

Watch the ABC-15 Sonoran Living segment below or scroll down to jump to recipes!

Kale + Citrus Vitamin Facial Pack

Kale has extraordinary nutritional benefits. Containing high concentrations of vitamins K, A and C, kale is also rich in antioxidants, calcium, iron, and phytonutrients. But it’s not everyone’s favorite and leftovers are a given. This vegan facial mask makes your skin a boost of nutrients while soothing and clarifying.

• 1 fresh bunch of organic kale
• Splash of oat milk
• ½ lemon

Roughly tear the kale leaves and place in a blender. Remove any seeds from the lemon and squeeze it into the blender. Add the oat milk. Blend until smooth. Apply with a clean facial brush and leave on for 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can soak a disposable facial mask sheet in the liquid and then apply the sheet. That way, you avoid the messy drips but still get the benefits.

3 Seed Face & Body Polish

Oh, the almighty seed! This powerful trinity of potent seeds whisk away dead skin cells while imparting healthy fatty acids, vitamins and nutrients. 

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons flax seeds
• 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• ½ lemon

Pulse the seeds in a food processor until finely ground. Add the avocado oil and squeeze in the lemon and pulse until the liquid is mixed in. Use the lovely mixture from head to toe, massaging it gently into the skin. Once you rinse it off, your skin will be left with a light glow from the surge of oils released from the seeds and avocado oil. 

Beetroot Lip Polish

Loaded with vitamin C and prized for its anti-inflammatory properties, beetroot also has the benefit of leaving behind a kiss of color. This three-ingredient lip treatment leaves lips smooth and with a subtle hue of deep pink.

• 2 capsules of beetroot powder (about 1 teaspoon)
• 1 tablespoon organic pure cane sugar
• 1 teaspoon avocado oil (or other plant-based oil you have on hand)

Mix up the ingredients in a small bowl and massage onto lips in circular motions. Rinse and enjoy the touch of color and super smooth pout.

Let us know if you try a recipe and happy home spa-ing!

The post 3 DIY Vegan Beauty Treatments for Face & Body [VIDEO] appeared first on Arizona Spa Girls.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and Arizona Spa Girls will earn a small commission on your purchase. See our full disclosure policy for details.

Steeped in time-honored traditions, Korean spas (jjimjiibang in Korean) offer the ultimate in relaxation. We’re talking about pampering face masks that make your complexion glow, invigorating scrubs that leave your skin baby smooth, steam rooms that detoxify your pores along with saunas, cold pools and hot stone floors. There’s no end to the list of relaxing and beautifying experiences you may encounter.

Benefits of Korean Spa

Korean spa is all about exfoliation and hydration, which results in glowing, even-toned skin. Removing all that dead skin also reduces acne, ingrown hairs and flakiness. The end result is youthful, dewy skin and a peaceful mind that comes from taking time out for self care.

The beauty benefits of Korean spa are undeniable, but how can it benefit your health? Well, studies show that visiting a sauna regularly is beneficial for the immune system, cardiovascular health and circulation. 

Whether you visit a Korean spa in person or recreate the experience at home, it could help keep illness away. In fact, time spent in a hot, steamy environment can even lower your blood pressure and improve cognitive function by dilating the blood vessels and calming the nervous system. From aches and pains to flu and headaches, a trip to the Korean spa will contribute to your well-being.

And, it’s a great way to detox—not just your body, you’ll get a digital detox, too. Take a break from all things technology and let your cares melt away. There’s nothing more therapeutic and healing for the mind than that!

So, How Can You Recreate a Korean Spa at Home?

In times like these, many of us are staying close to home, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy this style of luxurious self-care. You can replicate the experience at home fairly easily, which means you can reap the benefits of a Korean spa anytime you like.

You’ll need to focus on these things: hot, cold, skincare, and peace and quiet! 

Here’s your step-by-step guide to creating a Korean spa experience in your own space.

1. A Korean spa routine starts with a double cleanse to remove oil, dirt and makeup, just like any other K-beauty routine. Starting with fresh skin and hair is essential, so you’ll also want to take a quick shower and wash your hair and body, too.

2. Now, prepare a nice, steamy bath. Add four cups of organic whole  and one cup of Epsom salts to soften the skin and relax your muscles.

3. Apply your favorite Korean facial mask or sheet mask (check out Mantra Masks!) and a hair mask. Then get into the tub and soak for at least 15 minutes. Remove your mask and drain the tub.

4. Next, break out your scrubbing mitts and your favorite DIY body scrub. Stand in the shower and exfoliate your entire body with enough pressure to remove the dead skin but be careful not to overdo it. Let your mitts and body scrub do most of the work for you. Pay extra attention to rough areas on your elbows, knees and feet. A scrub towel will help you get those hard-to-reach areas on your back.

5. Now, turn on the shower and use your favorite body wash on a nubby washcloth to rinse clean. Rinse off your hair mask, too. While you’re in the shower, alternate between hot and cold water to mimic the contrast hydrotherapy experience of a Korean bathhouse. This step is essential for promoting relaxation, boosting circulation and reducing inflammation.

6. While your skin is still damp, apply body oil and massage it into your skin. Wrap your body in a very warm, damp sheet or towel to help the body oil soak in for several minutes. Wipe off any excess oil and pat dry.

7. Now that your body is glowing and ultra-hydrated, it’s time to finish pampering your face. Apply a hydrating Korean toner using the 7 Skin Method. Simply pat seven layers of toner into your skin, allowing each layer a moment to soak into the skin before applying the next. The result is ultra-hydrated, plump, youthful-looking skin.

8. Finally, apply your serum, moisturizer and facial oil to seal in moisture. If you have dry skin, place a warm, damp towel over your face to help everything soak in, just like you did for your body.

Wrapping up Your Experience

For the authentic Korean spa at home, be sure to finish up your session with a pot of roasted barley tea. Called “boricha” Korea, it’s said to hydrate and detoxify the skin even further. Following this routine regularly will give you amazing results without ever leaving home, and it won’t break the bank either!

Learn more about Korean beauty in Jude Chao’s beautiful new book, “Skin Care for Your Soul: Achieving Outer Beauty and Inner Peace with Korean Skincare” or read our review here.

The post 8 Steps for a Korean Spa Experience at Home appeared first on Arizona Spa Girls.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and we will earn a small commission on your purchase. See our full disclosure policy for details.

Most trend spotters point a manicured finger at Coco Chanel’s fateful French Riviera trip for the fashionably tan craze. I blame Malibu Barbie circa 1971 (yes, I know I’m showing my age!). Role playing with a deeply tanned, platinum blond bombshell made a lasting impression on my moldable mind, and I was among the early adopters to sport my orange QT tan with pride. We’ve come a long way since then (hallelujah!) and today’s faux glow treatments and self-tanners would make even Malibu Barbie slather on the SPF.

Behold, your faux-11 to everything you need not under the sun for a bona fide faux glow.

Faux Glow Treatments

Not handy with a self-tanner? Leave your tan in the hands of the bronzing masters at these beauty spots.

• Airbrush Spray Tanning Treatment at Hydrate Salon in Scottsdale is one of our favorite hidden gems for a perfectly painted spray tan. We also highly recommend Bronzeology and Arizona Airbrush Studio for top tanners with an expert touch.
• Sunless Spray Tan Booths at Bronzmopolitan in Scottsdale. Step in the high-tech tanning booth and step out a bronzed goddess. The system hydrates, bronzes and dries the skin in minutes.

Know Before You Faux

Spray tanning DOs and DON’Ts.

• DO exfoliate the day of your appointment and use only a light body lotion or skip it altogether.
• DO wear loose fitting dark colored clothing to your treatment.
• DON’T workout after a spray tan.
• DO bring a towel to sit on if you have leather car seats (trust us on this one!).
• DON’T sweat (if at all possible!).
• DON’T shower for 6 hours after the treatment or better yet, sleep on it.
• DON’T panic. The spray tan solution can rub off around waist bands, sleeves and toes depending on the type of shoes you wear. But remember that most tanning solutions have a bit of bronzer in them, which will wash off.
• DO moisturize skin liberally after your spray tan to prolong the color.

Faux Home Products

With a little practice, self-tanners can build the tan of your dreams minus the streaks and orange hues of yore. Products to ponder:

• L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Clear Self-Tanning Gel. Spray it on, massage it in and your tan starts to develop in less than an hour. New from L’Oréal, this citrus-scented clear gel is paraben free.
• St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse. Infused with aloe vera and a trademarked fragrance technology, this velvety mouse gives you subtle color without a hint of self-tanner aroma.
• Hampton Sun Sunless Tanning Mist. For the discriminating sunless worshiper, this light mist develops into a golden glow while leaving skin smooth and delightfully sniff-able.
• Fake Bake Flawless Coconut Sunless Tanning Serum. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, this lightweight illuminating builds a gradual, natural tan for face and body.
• Beauty by Earth Self Tanner Tanning Lotion. One of our new faves, this clean formulation has organic aloe vera, shea butter and other botanical extracts to hydrate and nourish your skin. It goes on smooth so you don’t have to worry about streaks, blotches or dark spots.

Get more self tanner product recommendations on our Influencer page.

Flawless Home Faux Glow

Follow these steps for a flawless self-tanner application.

1. Polish. In the shower, prep skin with an exfoliating body scrub, paying close attention to knees, elbows and ankles. Look for a body buffer or a non-oily scrub rather than a sugar or salt scrub, which tend to dissolve before you’ve thoroughly exfoliated. The more moisturizing the scrub, the more residue is left on your skin and the less the bronzer will absorb.

2. Pat. Dry off thoroughly and unless your skin is super dry, skip your daily body lotion application so the tanning product absorbs.

3. Practice. Self-tanner application takes practice. Apply the tanner in a circular massaging motion, working it over skin as evenly as possible. For fast-drying formulas, wash hands frequently between body areas or wear latex gloves. Use a daily gradual self-tanner if you want to build a subtle, more natural tan and avoid streaks completely. If you’re a newbie or want the instant gratification tan, try a product with a touch of bronzer so you can see where you’ve applied product.

4. Buff. After application, wash the palms of your hands with soap and water. Use an old, dry towel to swipe around my feet, heels, toes, ankles and elbows where the tanner tends to accumulate.

5. Stay Dry. The worst time to apply a self-tanner is when you have any chance of sweating or getting caught in the rain before the formula dries. A safe bet is to apply your self-tanner is before bedtime. This gives the product plenty of time to dry and do its job. Slip into a loose-fitting tee or sweats and when you shower off the next morning, your tan is ready to roll.

6. Keep Calm. If you awake to streaks or blotchy spots, don’t panic. One quick trick is to mix the juice of half a lemon with 1 cup of water and dab the mixture on patchy areas with a soft cloth to lessen their appearance. Another option is to apply a second layer of self-tanner, focusing on blending around the patches or streaks.

Faux Tan Enhancers

Extend and enhance your faux glow with these product finds.

• Prep your skin with Dermadoctor’s KP Duty body scrub. The creamy formula banishes dead skin cells with a chemical and physical exfoliant and leaves skin free of any oily residue.
• Extend your tan with a daily dose of St.Tropez Gradual Tan Tinted Daily Firming Body Lotion, which hydrates, smooths, firms and protects skin, while delivering a touch of daily glow.
• Enhance your summer tan glow with Deluvia Body Shimmer Wash Off Bronzing Lotion, which has a touch of color to bring out your glow.

Got your own spray tan tips or product faves? Share below and happy glowing!

Photo credit: Armin Rimoldi

The post Faux Glow Guide: Self Tanning and Spray Tan Treatments Tips & Tricks appeared first on Arizona Spa Girls.

This delightfully refreshing and clarifying facial mask came our way from nationally recognized bridal makeup artist and beauty expert Miriam Behar. A highly sought makeup maven in the south Florida area, she says this easy grapefruit mask works for most skin types and preps the skin for a smooth makeup application or for an anytime natural glow. Plus, the citrusy scent will give you a boost of energy for any special occasion.

Here’s what you need:

• 1 whole grapefruit
• 3/4 cup whole milk yogurt

Here’s what you do:

First, use a zester to grate the rind of the grapefruit into a bowl. Then, mix in the yogurt. Once smooth, apply the mask to your face with clean fingers or a soft facial brush, taking care to avoid the eyes. Leave the mask on for 10 minutes and then rinse, tone and apply moisturizer. For a natural and revitalizing toner, simply saturate a cotton ball with fresh grapefruit juice and swab the face and neck. And finally, avoid sun exposure directly after using this mask or liberally slather on the sunscreen. Natural citrus oils can make your skin temporarily sensitive to the sun.

Learn more about the health and beauty benefits of grapefruits at gofloridagrapefruit.com.

Get more revitalizing grapefruit recipes here.

Photo by Laura Tancredi courtesy pexels.com.

The post Zest for Life Grapefruit Mask appeared first on Arizona Spa Girls.