Oceanic Ingredients And Treatments
The Key To Health, Beauty And Revenue
by Rose M. Chvasta
Thalassotherapy or marine medicine, developed more than 200
years ago in Germany and England, resulted in treatments utilizing deep-sea
water, sea salt, marine algae and heat (hydrotubs and infrared lights) to
encourage physiological health. Vital minerals and trace elements encompassed within this
marine environment are essential to clients’ skincare regimen.
When applied topically in the form of cleansers and
moisturizers, these marine components fight off microbes, hydrate (due to
hydroscopic salt), provide anti-inflammatory effects, stimulate circulation and
oxygen supply, improve collagen and elastin production, and allow for better
product absorption.
It is important to realize that various algae regulate
different skin types. Oily to acned skin will benefit from brown algae,
Laminaria saccharina, controlling sebaceous gland function to keep pores clear.
Normal to combination skin will see a reduction in wrinkles with red algae,
Ahnfeltia concinna. Dry to mature skin will experience a difference with the
green algae fraction, Codium tomentosum, to increase moisture content with
prolonged use.
How marine-based facials and body treatments provide results
for customers depends on proper application and ingredient advantages. Following
are a few examples to promote these services.
Thalasso Facial Treatment—After
the skin is analyzed to offer a customized service, it undergoes an easy,
step-by-step protocol of cleansing, salt exfoliation, mask application and
ampoule and moisturizer penetration. Skin-enhancing ingredients can include
caviar extract, an anti-aging agent to stimulate and renew cell structures, or
marine collagen, a repairing substance to lessen mucous-membrane damage. This
treatment is ideal for any skin type or condition.
Algae Body Treatment—During the
consultation, inquire about any fish or iodine allergies. The algae is applied
in a thin coating that revitalizes the microcirculation of skin, fights
cellulite and activates the reduction of metabolic waste. This service may be followed with a lymphatic-drainage
massage. Ingredients can include Laminaria digitata, a sea algae extract to
improve skin softness, and brown algae, Scenedesmus, to firm.
Cross-Promotions
Spa staff should highlight sea-water treatments offered during
the client’s visit through spa packages and coupons to cross-promote spa
services. For example, a manicure/pedicure customer can be offered a “Riches
of the Sea” promotion with a $20 discount. This package will vary from the
client’s routine services by providing a mini-facial, body scrub and 30-minute
massage. Hair patrons can be presented with a 10-percent-off coupon for any
Thalasso treatment. These types of clients need extra incentives to try new
services, giving staff the perfect opportunity to promote themselves and
age-specific cosmetic benefits.
Retailing an oceanic line requires interpretation of how it
provides the key to health, beauty and relaxation. Following are some ideas for
spa staff to keep in mind:
- Educate the entire staff on company philosophy and
ingredients.
- Require purchase follow-ups and answer questions.
- Communicate with distributors to inquire about service
and product support.
- Display information, videos/DVDs, testimonials and
testers throughout high-traffic areas.
- Donate services to fund-raisers to receive added
recognition and attain new clients.
- Become a member of the chamber of commerce to exchange
marketing ideas.
Rose M. Chvasta is president and CEO of BiomariS USA. She
holds the esthetics emeritus distinction with NCA Esthetics Americas and is a
CIDESCO diplomat and respected international educator. She has lectured on and
demonstrated Thalassotherapy anti-aging treatments at industry shows nationwide.
References
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Skin Texture and Overall Health. Dynamic Chiropractic 2003 Sept;21(20).
2. Pustisek N, Lipozencic J. Prostaglandins in dermatology. v. acta
dermatovenerologica Croatica: ADC (Acta Dermatovenerol Croat) 2001
Dec;9(4):291-8.
3. Murray M. The Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Prima Publishing
1996;Chapter 33:Essential fatty acid supplementation:249-78.
4. Murray M, Pizzorno J. Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, revised 2nd
edition. Prima Publishing 1998:448-54.
5. Ziboh VA, Miller CC, Cho Y. Metabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids by
skin epidermal enzymes: generation of anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative
metabolites. Am J Clin Nutr 2000 Jan;71(1 Suppl):361S-6S.
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