the beauty blog :: andre chreky :: the salon spa

The French Face

Like it or not, Nora Ephron was right: “Our faces are lies, but our neck is the truth.” The neck and décolleté, with their thinner skin, tend to age more quickly – and less well – than other parts of our bodies. Unfortunately, the décolleté tends to be overexposed and under-protected when it comes to sun damage. Too many Americans focus our skin care regimen on our face, neglecting to spread TLC down to the neck and décolleté, a secret that French women have known for decades.

From a very young age, French girls are taught that proper skin care involves gentle cleansing both morning and night. They also learn to thoroughly apply their treatment products to their necks and chests. The term “the French Face” has been used by estheticians to describe the neck and chest region…after all, décolleté is a French adjective for a low-neck garment!

Our favorite skincare company Guinot has formulated a luxurious anti-aging product specifically designed for the French Face: Longue Vie Cou. The treatment contains 56 active ingredients that supply the elements required for healthy regeneration of delicate skin. This age-defying, youth-replenishing cream firms, tightens, and evens out the skin tone on the neck and chest. Use daily in the morning and evening. You’ll find Longue Vie Cou in the retail section at Andre Chreky Salon.

Can You Keto?

For a while now, the media has been abuzz about Keto. Curious to learn more, I recently sat down with our client Amy Palmer, who was visiting from Austin, Texas. Amy is the President and CEO of Soldiers’ Angels, a nonprofit group that provides aid to active members of the military and veterans. Last year, the members of Amy’s team challenged each other to try the Keto diet. The results were impressive. After two weeks, Amy had lost 6 pounds. One of her team members had lost 15!

What is Keto?
The “keto” in a ketogenic diet comes from the fact that, when carefully followed, the regime allows the body to produce small fuel molecules called “ketones.” Ketones act as an alternative fuel source for the body, kicking in when blood sugar (glucose) is in short supply.

Your body produces ketones if you eat very few carbs (which are quickly broken down into blood sugar) and only moderate amounts of protein (excess protein also converts into blood sugar). With limited protein and carbs on hand, the liver uses fat to produce ketones. When the body produces ketones, it enters a metabolic state called ketosis.

On a ketogenic diet, your body begins to burn fat 24-7. When insulin levels are very low, fat burning can increase dramatically. This is great if you’re trying to lose weight. But there are less obvious benefits: decreased hunger and a steady energy boost. This can help you stay alert and focused.

Who Should Avoid Keto?
As with most diet fads, there are controversies around the Keto diet. Persons with any stage of diabetes, kidney disease, or any pre-existing liver, pancreatic or kidney issues or conditions should avoid Keto. Most obstetricians advise against pregnant women following the plan. This is not a complete list of conditions that might be adversely affected by Keto, so as with any diet be certain to discuss your plans with you doctor before making nutritional changes.

What Can I Eat on Keto?
Keto-approved foods include natural fats (butter, olive oil, additive-free peanut butter, avocado); meat, fish and seafood; eggs; cheese; vegetables that grow above ground. The most important thing for reaching ketosis is to avoid eating too many carbs; you should aim to stay below 50 grams daily and ideally below 20 grams. The fewer carbs, the quicker your body will reach ketosis.

Foods you should avoid on the diet include bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, fruit, beer, soda, juice, candy. In short, sugary and starchy foods are verboten.

Have you heard of the Keto Diet? Have you tried it? I’d love to hear your story!

Hearts Full of Love, Pockets Full of Savings

Next to that “special someone,” nothing makes our hearts go pitter-pat like saving a fist-full of dollars. In honor of Love Month, we’re offering some of our most adored services at prices that will make you swoon. Happy Valentines Month from Andre Chreky!

Mondays
$40 Haircuts

Tuesdays
$50 Signature Facials

Wednesdays
$30 Regular Blowdrys

Thursdays
$125 Highlights

Fridays
$50 Single Process Color

Weekends
$30 Hair Conditioning Treatments

 

And Don’t Forget

February 6 – From haircare to skincare to bright-shiny-things, save 20% on all retail purchases today. A great way to “get your glow on” in time for Valentine’s Day.

February 27 – Someone you know could use a midwinter pick-me-up. Surprise them with an Andre Chreky Gift Card. You’ll save 10% when you purchase today.