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

Spring has Sprung!

April showers bring a deluge of deals at Andre Chreky. Step out of the rain and into our spa, where you’ll soak up savings on popular beauty services. Each day of the week brings a different opportunity to shine: try them all, Sunshine!

Daily April Specials

Mondays
$15 Regular Manicure                    

Tuesdays
$30 Gel Manicure

Wednesdays
$15 Brow Threading/Waxing

Thursdays
$60 Hydra Peeling Facial

Fridays
$75 Age Summum Facial

Weekends
$30 Bikini Wax (any)

 

And Don’t Forget…

April 3 – What’s more fun than an Easter egg hunt? Filling your basket with goodies from our retail department! Stock up today and save 20% on your purchases. Hop to it!

April 24 – Mother’s Day is just around the corner. Treat her to an hour, a morning, or a day of beauty with an Andre Chreky Gift Card. Buy yours today and save 10%. (Get one for every momma in your life!)

 

Singing in the Rain
Free Umbrella with any Moroccanoil purchase

April showers? Bring them on! Buy any Moroccanoil product from our retail department and receive a perky turquoise umbrella (value: $25) with our compliments. Blue skies will follow wherever you go…Offer good through April 30, while supplies last. One per customer, please.

Just in Time for Cherry Blossoms

Wait until you see the lineup of colors in OPI’s new Tokyo Collection: absolutely stunning!

Tokyo is known as an exceptionally vibrant, trendsetting city. Inspired by the city’s blend of rich traditions, fashion-forward style, and ultra-modern cityscapes, this palette’s 12 colors evoke the energy and creativity of Tokyo.

Available in classic Nail Lacquer, Long-Wear Infinite Shine, and GelColor formulas the Tokyo collection includes modern takes on pink with dusty rose, lavender, and lilac undertones (Rice Rice Baby, Another Ramen-tic Evening, Arigato from Tokyo, Hurry-juku Get this Color!). There are rich hues inspired by nature from matcha green tea to blooming gardens (How Does Your Zen Garden Grow?, I’m On a Sushi Roll, Suzi- san Climbs Fuji-san, Tempura-ture is Rising!) Vibrant purple and blue colors – some with shimmer -- evoke the city’s electric energy and nightlife (All Your Dreams in Vending Machines, Samurai Breaks a Nail, Kanpai OPI!, Chopstix and Stones) round out the collection.

To pay homage to Tokyo’s nail art innovation six limited edition shades will also be part of the Tokyo Collection. These collectible colors feature varied glitter finishes, including matte foil glitters in pink (Just Karate Kidding You), silver (Robots Are Forever) and gold (Left My Yens in Ginza) as well as an iridescent two-tone glitter in pink and silver (Judo’nt Say?) a chunky glitter in silver (R U Happy 2 C Me? LOL!) and a cherry blossom-inspired pink with gold (This Shade is Blossom).

I can’t wait to sport Kanpai OPI with my new spring sweater. Which Tokyo Collection color is calling to you?

The Future is Now. And it’s Beautiful.

I’m not the only one who feels that the world is changing at breakneck speed. My colleagues in the beauty industry comment about it constantly. Environmental stewardship, holistic health, and technological advances are just a few of the trending interests that are influencing the way our clients approach in-salon and at-home treatments. Here are a few of the important advances that will be rocking my world in 2019.

Clean Beauty
Sustainability is probably my number one concern these days. I’m delighted that the beauty industry has taken up this cause. I’ve noticed a significant shift toward “clean” beauty,” as companies start to formulate, produce, and package products that are more environmentally friendly. I love it when a company introduces sustainable packaging, replacing plastic with glass, using recycled materials, and offering “refill” incentives for their customers.

New Classic Scents
I have always been an advocate of having one signature scent, even when the trend moved towards owning a “fragrance wardrobe.” I’m gratified that classic scents are making a return. Last year, Chanel launched a limited-edition version of their iconic No. 5 perfume. Dior introduced a soon-to-be classic, Joy, which is a sophisticated take on sandalwood and musk.

Super Supplements
Beauty comes from the inside out, and the current interest in popping healthy supplements is a beautiful thing. GI health has such a huge impact on skin, hair, and overall stamina that the gut has been dubbed the “second brain.” Superpower probiotics are surging in popularity and supplements in general are increasingly targeted to best fit your needs. Whether it’s increased energy, reduced inflammation, improved sleep, or boosting your overall glow, look for a blend of natural ingredients that can supplement your beauty regime with impressive results.

Golden Glow
This may seem over-the-top, but some of our clients have mastered this new makeup trend with gorgeous results: a swipe of yellow-gold highlighter across the cheekbones. Experiment with Rihanna’s Fenty line of makeup: the Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter in Trophy Wife creates depth and dimensions with a wash of gilded yellow. Contouring made modern – and easy!

Gadgets and Gizmos Galore
Beauty technology is developing so rapidly, it can be hard to keep pace. I’m fascinated by the emerging ability to use handheld aids, such as phone apps, to improve my skincare. I’ll be checking out Foreo, a light- and heat-emitting handheld device that tracks and responds to internal and external factors affecting the skin. Foreo uses LED technology along with hot and cold sonic waves to stimulate skin cells and boost the penetrative properties of face masks. Coupled with the device the Foreo app provides tips on how to get optimal, visible results. Another item on my radar: the SpectraLite FaceWare Pro, an FDA-approved face mask charged with blue and red LED lights that targets wrinkles, improves acne, and enhances skin appearance. I’ve heard that after just two weeks of daily three-minute sessions, the effects are noticable. I’m also intrigued by the Dyson AirWrap, an instant styling wand that uses air rather than heat to create waves as well as sleek styles.

Low-Care Hair
Every now and then, your hair needs a break from the blow dryer and other hot tools. Luckily, chic ponytails that require minimal maintenance are becoming more popular; they were noted in many of the recent runway shows. While Alberta Ferretti models wore ponytails with a carefully tied rope-like finish – somewhat tricky to achieve at home – others went full-out DIY. Ann Demeulemeester showed effortlessly styled low-slung braids and models for Victoria Beckham sported barely-tied half-ponytails. For those days when you can’t make it to the salon…or when your flatiron feels flat out “too fussy…” try one of these easy, chic alternatives.

Summum Truly Special

Raise your hand if you’re excited that spring is just around the corner. Now, raise your other hand if your face, neck, and chest look and feel as if they’re still trapped in the midwinter doldrums. If cold weather, indoor heat, itchy turtlenecks, and wooly scarves have taken their toll, take heart. Our estheticians have exactly what your skin is craving these days: the new Lift Summum Treatment from our favorite skincare line, Guinot.

Designed to firm and smooth the delicate skin of the face, neck, and chest (often the first areas to show signs of neglect), Lift Summum Treatment offers instant, long-lasting results. It’s fast-acting, removing dead skin cells, redefining facial contours, and restoring radiance in just 50 minutes.

The four-step process, enjoyed in our spa, is so relaxing. First, we apply papaya extract to slough away dead skin cells and facilitate gentle exfoliation. The second step is a massage with mahogany bark extract (to improve elasticity) and seaweed extract to lessen the appearance of wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid spherical fillers are then gently worked into the skin to rehydrate and fill any non-groovy grooves caused by wrinkles. Finally, a truly remarkable lifting mask smooths facial features and combats skin slackening. Bliss!

Guinot’s 50-minute Lift Summum Treatment typically costs $130 (so worth it!). But here’s a tip: every Friday in March we will be offering the treatment for just $65. Book soon!

 

Photo credit: elegantladybeauty.ie

March into Spring, Beautifully

There’s no need to shuffle into spring with winter-weary hair and skin. Stride into warmer weather looking your absolute best with Andre Chreky’s lineup of season-changing specials. Each day of the week, all month long, we’ll be offering the beauty reboots you need at prices that will warm your heart!

March Mondays
$55 Haircuts

Tulip Tuesdays
$60 Single Process Color

Windy Wednesdays
$35 Regular Blowdrys

Thaw-out Thursdays
$35 Cellophane Treatments

Flowering Fridays
$65 Lift Summum Facials

Warmer Weekends
$300 Keratin Treatments

 

And Don’t Forget

Wednesday, March 6 – The early bird gets the worm, so stop by first thing today for the best selection of merchandise! Save 20% on all retail products today. Hop to it, Robin!

Wednesday, March 27 – When it comes to gift-giving, don’t be an April Fool! Stock up today on Andre Chreky Gift Cards at 10% savings. You’ll never be surprised when the need for a present arises.

 

You Can Kenra for $7

This month, buy any Kenra haircare product and get a second Kenra product for just $7. Whether you’re a tried-and-true Kenra fan or new to this great haircare line, now’s the time to stock up and save! Offer good through March 31.

Wander Lust

Candy melts. Roses drop their petals. But the sweet moments sparked by a romantic getaway with your valentine can will last a lifetime. Put real-world distractions on hold for a few days and whisk your beloved away to one of these escapes. All are in driving distance of DC. (Sure, it may be a little late to book for February 14, but hey, it’s wonderful to have an early spring getaway to look forward to…)

The Homestead Resort
This Allegheny Mountain resort, located in Hot Springs, Virginia, is renowned as one of the world’s foremost luxury golf and spa resorts. Dating from 1766, the Homestead abounds with charm. In addition to its championship golf course the 2,000-acre setting boasts a downhill ski area, an equestrian center, a top-rated shooting club, archery, canoeing, falconry, and Segway tours. Ready for some pampering? The spa offers every service you can imagine while an array of gourmet restaurants cook up spectacular meals served with genuine Southern hospitality.

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort
Located in Pennsylvania’s beautiful Laurel Highlands Mountains, just a few hours'​ drive from Washington, Nemacolin has something for everyone. Enjoy the spectacular art collection displayed throughout the French-style chateau, then indulge in the award-winning spa or a world-class dining experience. Nemacolin offers championship golf, bike rentals, a safari-style animal park, and an Adventure Center with paintball, a rock-climbing wall, ropes course, and a zip line. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater home is a nearby attraction.

Salamander Hotels & Resorts
If you love horses and wine, head to Salamander in Middleburg, Virginia. The romantic 340-acre resort in the Blue Ridge Mountains, just an hour from DC, is the perfect jumping off point for enjoying some of the region’s best wineries.

The Inn at Little Washington
Book a year in advance for this one! The restaurant at the Inn at Little Washington is recognized as one the world’s finest. The inn is nestled in in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, with spectacular views, wineries, antique shops, and wide range of outdoor activities close at hand.

The Greenbrier
Have you ever spent the night at a National Historic Landmark? You can when you visit The Greenbrier, in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia: The Greenbrier has been operating since 1778. Enjoy more than 50 recreational activities on 11,000 acres including skiing, ice-skating, three championship golf courses, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, and a spa that is utterly indulgent.

The Tides Inn
If water floats your boat, head to The Tides Inn, situated on a private peninsula overlooking Carters Creek in Irvington, Virginia. Enjoy stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and activities such as boat cruises, sailing lessons, stand-up paddle boarding, golf, tennis, croquet, and a full-service spa. Don’t miss the farm-to-table restaurant, where you can sample the very freshest oysters from the Rappahannock River.

The Inn at Perry Cabin
Once you settle into the Inn at Perry Cabin, you’ll find it hard to leave! This 78-room manor house, with its beautiful furnishings and welcoming atmosphere, is spectacularly located on the shores of the Chesapeake. Bask in the inn’s luxury, but be sure to leave plenty of time to mosey around the town of St. Michaels, Maryland, with its eclectic boutiques and maritime museum. If the mood strikes, the inn can help you arrange golf, fishing, sailing, horse-drawn carriage rides, and historic walking tours.

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.

Once Removed

At Andre Chreky we offer a variety of hair removal services: waxing and threading, as well as brow design. Clients often ask which service is best for them and how waxing and threading differ. I turned to our estheticians for some answers. Here are their thoughts.

If you’re a newbie to hair removal, let’s start with the basics.

Waxing involves warm wax thinly applied with a wooden spatula to the hair that will be removed. A paper or cloth strip is placed directly over the wax, gentle pressure is applied to ensure the waxy hair sticks to the paper, then paper is swiftly pulled away, pulling the hairs out from the root.

Threading is an ancient hair removal technique originating in Asia. The skin is cleaned for preparation and a piece of specially coated anti-bacterial thread is then twisted in the hands of the professional, creating a mini-lasso to grab hairs. This removes the hairs quickly and directly from the follicles. The esthetician may also trim the hairs to neaten the brows and define the shape.

Eyebrow Waxing

• Pros: Waxing is instant and provides good results. It is suited for clients who find threading and tweezing painful. With regular treatments, hairs may grow back softer and finer.
• Cons: Waxing is a bit less accurate than threading. It is also not suitable for anyone undergoing chemical peels or using Rentinol, nor is it recommended for people with extremely sensitive skin.

Eyebrow Threading

• Pros: Threading is suitable for those with sensitive skin as this technique is not abrasive. No chemicals or heat are used, so you are less likely to have an adverse reaction.
• Cons: Some people find threading painful.

Can you be allergic to waxing or threading?
Although uncommon, sensitive skin can react to waxing. An allergy test can be done 24 hours in advance to be certain. Other people may find that they have minor break outs after threading, though this is typically avoided by sanitizing the skin first.

Which lasts longer, waxing or threading?
Both techniques remove hair from the follicles, with results that last an average of 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the individual.

Is waxing or threading more painful? Most people say threading is more painful as it takes longer; waxing is instant. However, threading is often preferred for its precise results. Some people opt to withstand discomfort in favor of the results.

How can you prep for waxing or threading?
If your skincare regime includes Retinol or AHAs, cease their use for at least 5 days before getting waxed. Be sure your skin is super clean before treatment and avoid applying makeup for several hours post treatment. Also avoid sun exposure and sunscreen for 24 hours after treatment.

The Verdict: Waxing is a great choice for super thick brows and for clients who find brow shaping uncomfortable. It's quick, with instant results making it a good option for those that don’t like threading or tweezing. Threading is recommended for clients with sensitive skin and as well as for anyone who has recently had skin peels or is on medication that would prevent them from having waxing.