August 12, 2009
Get Thyself to Rosaline's >>





Every time I visit Coolidge Corner I let out a sigh of appreciation for the variety
of shops, restaurants, amenities, and T access (even if it is that pokey green line)
that truly makes it one of Boston’s ideal car-free neighborhoods. And now I’ve discovered another reason to frequent Coolidge Corner – Rosaline’s Skin Care
& Spa. Read on to learn more about Rosaline's services (which include expertise
in treating the skin of women of color), and enjoy a special offer for Boston Mamas readers.

So here’s the thing. While certain personal care products may be applied universally (e.g., toothpaste, nail polish), when it comes to skin and hair care, race and ethnicity matter. If you don’t believe me, ask the poor Great Cuts newbie (back during my
college days) who wasn't trained on how to handle Asian hair and thus was so
terrified about making a mistake with my super straight, thick mane that she
literally took almost two hours to do a simple trim. I can't remember what I tipped
her, but surely it wasn't enough.

But back to skin care. I recently visited Grenada-born esthetican Rosaline Lowe
after learning that her spa not only offers wonderful treatment in general
(the gamut of facials – including organic – plus massage, spa therapy treatments,
and waxing), but that Rosaline specializes in treating women of color. Because
the truth is, there is palpable comfort that comes from being treated by someone
who understands (and lives the fact) that diverse skin has diverse needs.
Though she looks remarkably young for someone who honed her skills
for 5 years on Newbury Street before running her own business for almost
25 years (genetics probably, plus a testament to her craft...), Rosaline brings
utter calm, confidence, and skill to her work; I felt completely safe in her hands.
When I booked my appointment, I didn’t ask for a specific treatment; instead
asking that Rosaline assess my skin when I got there. Rosaline said my skin
actually looked pretty good; a bit dry and a surprising number of freckles
for an Asian, but otherwise smooth and generally problem-free. At my request,
she first waxed my brows to perfection; creating lovely, flattering, tapered arches
that – strangely enough – other estheticans have told me aren’t possible with
my facial structure (perhaps this was fear due to inexperience), then proceeded
with a basic hydrating facial that was nourishing and literally left me glowing.

If I hadn’t been so curious to talk to Rosaline about her work, I would have
fallen asleep it was so relaxing (the neck massage part was particularly awesome). Rosaline is smart, passionate about what she does, and despite her tenure in the business, she's motivated to keep learning about new techniques, skin needs, and products. Rosaline even is willing to share some of her knowledge (learning
seminars at her spa are forthcoming) because she wants to help women learn
how to take care of themselves and make self care a priority.

Though trust me, you will want to get on her table. And mama, you deserve it.
AWESOME DEAL! Rosaline kindly is offering a discount to Boston Mamas readers. Simply mention Boston Mamas when you book your appointment to receive a 10% discount on any service. Enjoy!

Rosaline’s Skin Care & Spa, 1426 Beacon Street, Brookline
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August 11, 2009

Beauty Tips For Brides-To-Be in AficanAmericanBrides.com




by guest blogger,
Rosaline Lowe
Rosaline’s Spa & SkinCare

Most women dream of the day they’ll walk down the aisle with the love of their
life. The engagement period tends to be a process of planning for the wedding
logistics, but it’s also a ramping-up of the bride’s health and beauty regimen.
Here are some important steps to follow to get you to the finishing line looking
clear and radiant from the outside in.

1. Look at yourself from the inside out.
It’s a good idea to look at your body type. Most brides tend to diet before their
wedding day. If you’re planning to lose a few pounds to fit comfortably into
your dream dress, and start a regular exercise routine at a health club, you’ll
be on your way to better circulation which will thus help your skin from the
inside out. In terms of your body physiology, when you work out, you sweat –
thereby eliminating lymphatic fluid and toxins which are your body’s way of
naturally cleansing your skin. Not only will you look better, you will feel better
from your body’s natural boost of endorphins, the “feel good” hormone!

2. Look at the condition of your skin from head to toe.
Grooming of the hair is very important to African American women, so taking
care of the hair is a must. Some African American hair can have a tendency
to be dry, so the scalp and hair need moisture on a daily basis. If you are
wearing braids or a weave, make sure that the scalp is thoroughly conditioned
and visit your hairdresser on a regular basis to keep the hair healthy.

3. What are you putting into your body?
As they say, you are what you eat! The skin reflects what you are eating and
drinking. Studies have shown that eating essential fatty acid found in foods
such as salmon, tuna, nuts and seeds creates a huge benefit, improving the
condition of hair and skin. General good health can be maximized by eating
fresh fruits, vegetables and legumes, and drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day.
Some people do have normal, problem-free skin, but others are plagued with skin problems. A large percentage of African-American individuals experience uneven pigmentation or dark spots caused when the skin encounters an abrasion with
a pimple, pustule, burn or cut in which during the subsequent healing process
in which the skin hyper-pigments due to an abundance of melanin in the skin.
Do not indulge in junk food, but don’t deprive yourself either. A small treat,
keeping in mind portion control, is the key.
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4. Caffeine and you
Drink caffeine only in moderation, and stick to one cup per morning. Even half
decaf and half regular is a bonus! Some studies show caffeine dilates the blood vessels, which can make for a rosy glow – but limit your intake because in some,
it can cause redness as well.

5. Limit alcohol consumption.
Wedding planning is full of special events along the way often involving alcohol
and revelry. Keep in mind that alcohol can can cause dehydration on the skin
and cause a wrinkled, crepey appearance. Eat, drink and be merry but in
moderation!

6. Get Your Groove On
Aim to exercise three times a week in order to maintain your desired weight
and tone the muscles. Exercise can include weights, treadmill, yoga or
Pilates – even walking – anything you can do to keep the blood flowing
and your lymphatic system moving.

7. Everything Zen
Though it is challenging dealing with different personalities that go into planning
your nuptials, try to practice mindfulness. Practice taking long, cleansing breaths
which help to release toxins and relax the body in mind, creating an important
synergy which will help you enjoy the moment and deal with stresses that may
come your way.

8. Cleanse and hydrate
Clean the skin morning and night using a cleanser formulated for your skin
type; your skin care provider can help you determine what’s best. Always
remove the day’s makeup so your pores can breathe at night – this will help as
you lead up to your important wedding celebrations: engagement pictures,
showers, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner and wedding day! Use a non-
alcohol toner for day or sensitive skin or switch to an astringent for normal/
combination skin. When using cleanser, NEVER use the palm of your hands
to remove residue when rinsing. Always use lukewarm soft face cloth or soft sea sponges to remove cleanser along with plenty of cool water to remove debris.
Exfoliate once or twice on entire face and body by using a Japanese loofah or a synthetic hand mitt. Use a facial scrub for the face and another for the body.
DO NOT USE THE SAME EXFOLIANT ON THE FACE AND THE BODY as the one for the
skin should be softer with smaller exfoliants.

9. Go professional
It’s ideal to seek the help of a professional esthetician every 4-6 weeks for
regular facials to get your skin in top condition for your day. Skin treatment can
vary depending on the condition of your skin and can be chosen in concert
with your skin care provider. If the skin is problematic with uneven skin tone, lactic/glycolic or microdermabrasion peels are valuable treatments for the skin
because they help to smooth the texture of the skin while improving the
appearance of wrinkles and uneven skin tone while removing excess dead cells
on the skin. Skins that are problem-free can have regular facials that include
enzymes. *Facial masks are a MUST once a week. If the skin is oily, choose a
mask that is clay base. If the skin is dry or normal a cream or gel mask should
be use. This downtime is not only good for your skin, it’s helpful for your mind.
Light a candle and relax, or flip through your wedding planner to cross off
your to-do’s! If your wallet prohibits the ability to seek professional treatments,
do not despair; even a good drug store provider can counsel you on the best
products for skin. Places like CVS are key for people watching their pennies.
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10. Shun the Sun
While it’s tempting to want to grab some rays, always use a sunscreen! Seek
one with preferably an SPF of 15 or higher. If you’re of darker skin tone, then
15-20 is fine. If you are of lighter skin tone try to use a SPF 30 or higher.

11. Moisturizer is your friend
Apply moisturizer nightly for extra moisture; your skin literally repairs itself as
you sleep and this helps with the process. Be sure to use lightening creams
or acids only once per day – the sun is not a good match for these, so use
them at night only. Moisturize in the morning also with a non-greasy one that
won’t clog your pores and helps set your make-up.

12. Your Perfect Face
If you are planning to hire a make-up artist, always have a complete make-up
test-run to make sure the color looks right on you skin tone. It’s difficult to find foundations and powder that blend on dark skins, so make sure that the make-up
artist uses the right shade. Remember to speak up if you don’t feel comfortable--
it’s your big day!

Remember: Your wedding lasts for one day, but good skin can last you a lifetime
if you follow these easy tips. It’s certainly not easy to plan a wedding with all
the stress and nirvana that goes with the planning to maintain a healthy lifestyle
as well. It’s hard but worth it when you see your pictures that showcase your
hard work paid off! Stick these on a bulletin board or tack onto your fridge to
help you stick with these suggestions. Follow the above guidelines, and your
day will be a happy and relaxed one. You’ll start your new lives together glowing
and healthy!

Rosaline Lowe has been in the business for 23 years and is somewhat of an
institution in the Boston area, providing skincare advice to celebs and loyal
clientele from near and far who have heard about her special touch.
A native of Grenada, she has clients ranging in age and ethnicity, and has
developed a cult following by those who swear by her products and treatments.

Find her on Facebook and on Twitter

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