Sanctuary's spaBlog - Sanctuary Day Spa, Houston Texas

Progressive Peel Aftercare: Skincare Products & Tips

Mon, 05 May 2025 15:00:08 GMT

Progressive peels are a fantastic way to refresh and resurface your skin, offering gentle and highly effective results. Unlike chemical peels, our progressive peels are a series of lighter, more frequent treatments. You can achieve gradual improvements without significant downtime. To get the most out of the treatment, it is key to follow a few simple post-care guidelines. Your Sanctuary Spa esthetician will help you care for your skin.

Products For Aftercare

The Sanctuary Spa Progressive Chemical Peel treatment uses Rhonda Allison chemical solutions to remove the top layer of your skin and stimulate the growth of new skin cells. We recommend using the included aftercare to support your skin’s healing process. The skincare routine is required for at least 5-7 days after your peel. Each product is vital to achieve properly healed skin and the ultimate benefits of the peel. It is important to be gentle with your skin and to avoid aggressive rubbing and picking.

Soothing Cream Cleanse
HA Hydra Mist Toner
Growth Factor Gel
Drop of Essence
TiZO Mineral Sunscreen

These products will effectively heal your skin if used consistently and properly for the 5-7 day recovery period. In addition to these provided products, Rhonda Allison’s Calming Skin Gel and Arnica Therapy are available for purchase to soothe and reduce inflammation in your skin. If you have dry skin, you will probably benefit from adding these two products to your post-care to manage your peeling process.

What To Expect + How To Heal

Okay, now you have the products down. What else do you need to know? After progressive or superficial peels, you should expect:

Pink or red skin for the first 1-2 days
Tender to touch or more sensitive skin for the first 1-3 days
Light, sun-burned type flaking to no visible peeling

Consistency with your skincare routine will be a key component for proper healing. Be careful of turtlenecks, scarves and other items that could irritate your skin. Within the first 24-28 hours, be careful of glasses and sunglasses. Sometimes they can cause demarcation lines on the bridge of the nose. Put a cotton pad or Kleenex under glasses to create a barrier. Keep your hair pulled back and away from your face as much as possible. Your esthetician will be able to provide more specific guidance, if you have any questions. Be mindful of avoiding the following products and activities as well.

Avoid these for at least 2 weeks:

Prescription Strength Topicals (like AHA’s, BHA’s, retinoids or other correctives)
Botox, Dermal Fillers, Permanent Makeup, or Facial Wax
Outdoor Activities/ Vacations or Air Travel
These may create risks for complications such as irritation, redness, dryness or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Includes swimming and saunas

To get the full benefits of progressive peels, estheticians recommend to follow the post care instructions and guidelines for a minimum of 5-7 days. If you have any doubts after you leave the spa, you can give us a call at 713-622-7722 and our guest care team will be able to help! We wish you happy healing towards your revived skin!

Mother's Day Gift Guide

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 04:13:25 GMT

Mother’s Day is May 11, 2025. It is the perfect time to start planning how to spoil the incredible moms in your life. Sanctuary Spa has you covered with a collection of gift ideas to make any mom feel extra special. The gift of the self-care can come in so many ways, read below to find the perfect gift!

Products All Moms Will Adore

Gift the Spa Experience

We recommend one of our packages for the best Mama “me time.” Our amazing packages include multiple services and gratuity! Explore our range of packages that are fit for every mom:
The Abscond Package is great for the mom who is always on the go. She will enjoy a 30 minute Brea’s Signature Restorative Facial and a 45 minute Sanctuary Signature Massage. Relaxation that is easy to fit into any schedule! ($199)

Another great option for the mama who needs some extra relaxation is our Renewal package ! This package does just that, it leaves her feeling relaxed and renewed. It includes a 120 minute massage and a 90 minute Minkyti facial. Learn more about our Minkyti facial on our website under facials. ($475)

If you want to spoil two mama’s or want to have a spa day with mom, our Ultimate Duo package is the option for you! This package includes two 60 minute Signature Massages that you can enjoy in the same room or separate rooms and two 60 minute personalized facials. ($575)

You can choose between booking a spa day for her or gifting her a Sanctuary Spa gift card so she can relax on her time. And you're in luck because we are running a gift card promotion April 27 to May 12, 2025. For a limited time, for every $150 gift card purchase we will give a bonus $25! So, if you are interested in any of our recommendations or services, now is the perfect time to purchase. Simply go online to besanctuary.com/gift to purchase your E-gift certificate. Or, visit us at the spa to purchase a physical card and our guest care team will be happy to help. And if you’re still not sure what would be the best gift for the mom in your life, give us a call at 713.622.7722 so we can chat about creating the perfect gift!

Miles and Massages: The Perfect Marathon Duo

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 20:53:25 GMT

So, you have made the decision to run a marathon- that’s amazing! Now, you’re probably gearing up for all the training ahead. Before you take off, ensure you include massage therapy in your training program. I know, it may seem a little unexpected, but hear me out. Incorporating regular Sanctuary Spa Signature Massages in your marathon preparation will help the whole process run smoother and far less painful. Runners swear by it. They have experienced fewer injuries and less of that dreaded "hobble walk." Regular massages are a game changer and may be the secret ingredient you need to thrive.

Why are massages beneficial for runners?

Massage therapy offers a ton of benefits . For runners, it can be absolutely transformative. At Sanctuary Spa, our massage therapists are all about personalized care-creating massages specific to your goals. We have specialists trained in various techniques including sports massages, deep tissue, and Swedish, all of which can do wonders for athletes. From relieving pain and reducing the risk of injury to speeding up recovery and possibly improving your overall performance, massages are a valuable addition to a runner’s routine.

When should you schedule your massage?

During training

Weekly massages during peak training weeks can be incredibly helpful in stretching your muscles and keeping injuries at bay. If weekly sessions are not feasible for you, our top advice is to have a regular massage routine. Ideally, this should be every 4 weeks or so. You can also add several stretches at home to create your own routine. Our massage therapists can share ideal stretches for you.

Pre-Race

Schedule a massage two to three days before the marathon to stretch and prepare your body for the challenge. Claudine added the goal of the massage is to increase your range of motion and fascia flexibility to avoid injuries, alleviate stress, and improve sleep. Then, your body can repair itself.

Post-Race

We recommend scheduling a massage between one to three days after the race to assist in the recovery process. During a marathon or intense physical movement, your body works overtime to supply your muscles with energy faster than usual. As a byproduct of this process, lactic acid and other metabolic wastes are created. So, after the event, this build-up remains and may cause your muscles to feel more tired or contract irregularly. Studies have shown receiving a massage one to three days post-competition allows the waste to be flushed out thus speeding up the recovery process. This will allow your body to more easily receive the oxygen and nutrients it needs to snap back into shape, reduce soreness, and heal quicker. Treat yourself to a well-deserved massage and help your body to recover faster!

Length of Massages

Enhancements

Enhancing your wellness

Outside of the spa, remember to stay hydrated. Hydration is another key component to the health of your muscles and body. Dehydrated muscles work insufficiently and can cause more frequent cramping, fatigue, and injury. Our massage therapists also recommend add bath salts to your baths to further aid in injury prevention. Analgesic Bath Salts combines dead sea salts, Himalayan salts, and analgesic bath and body oil to address sore muscles and joint. The heat of the bath, combined with icing any inflamed areas, creates a wonderful recipe for muscle recovery.

Another great way to tackle incorporating massages into your regimen is to sign up for our membership program ! We recently enhanced our the program, so you have two options now. Our Wellness Membership Program is $139/ month. You can enjoy one 50-minute massage or facial per month. In addition, you’ll get 20% off enhancements, a free monthly product, a free birthday enhancement, 10% off products, and 15% off added services. A great package to bring balance into your life! If you enjoy longer massages, you can upgrade your service, and a small upgrade fee will be applied at checkout. Or, you can opt for the second membership option, Vitality Membership, which is $179/ month. The Vitality Membership offers one 80-minute massage or facial. You also receive all of the same benefits as above. PLUS, you get $15 spa dollars.

If you’re looking to elevate your running game, add massages to your routine as an investment in your health and performance! You can call our guest care team at 713-622-7722 , and they will happily help you schedule or answer any questions. Additionally, feel free to email us at guestcare@besanctuary.com or schedule online at http://besanctuary.com/book . Make sure to follow us on Instagram @sanctuaryspahou to stay on top of last-minute openings and promotions!

Unlock Radiant Skin: A Comprehensive Guide to Progressive Chemical Peels

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 21:44:16 GMT

What is a Progressive Chemical Peel?

For starters, a chemical peel is a resurfacing facial procedure that uses a chemical solution to remove the top layer of your skin. By removing dead skin and stimulating the growth of fresh, revived skin cells, a chemical peel accelerates cell turnover resulting in a smoother, more radiant appearance.

Is a Progressive Chemical Peel right for you?

In addition to the Progressive Peel, we offer a Chemical Peel Booster as an Enhancement, which can be added to a Personalized Facial or Microdermabrasion Facial. This approach could be used to introduce your skin to peels and allow you to begin to see the results. The esthetician has the ability to customize the booster to your skin type, but the results will take longer to appear than a Progressive peel. The Chemical Peel Booster is $45 and may add an additional 15 minutes to your service time.

When is the best time to get a Chemical Peel?

Fall and Wintertime are ideal for receiving a chemical peel! These seasons have a decreased amount of UV radiation which is ideal for the service. Since chemical peels expose layers of your skin, your skin will be more sensitive and reactive to UV rays and heat. Cool weather helps protect and speed up recovery, ensuring the best results.

You can still get chemical peels in the spring and summer, though. You must be more vigilant and take the proper precautions. Our progressive peels are ideal for these timeframes, since the peel doesn’t go that deep. Staying out of the sun and heat when possible, and using SPF, are vital to great results.

What should you expect during the service?

You will receive information about pre-care and post-care before your service begins. You’ll have the opportunity to ask your esthetician questions at any time before, during, and after your service. You will receive your post-care products at the end of your service and your esthetician will fully explain your next steps.

Your Post-Care

Ready to rejuvenate your skin?

Whether you’re dealing with rosacea, aging, hormonal acne, or just looking to glow up your skin, our Progressive Chemical Peels can help! Book your consultative Personalized Facial today and let us create a customized treatment plan for your skin. You can call us at 713-622-7722 and our lovely guest care team will help you schedule. Additionally, you can email us at guestcare@besanctuary.com or schedule online at http://besanctuary.com/book . Make sure to follow us on Instagram @sanctuaryspahou to stay on top of last-minute openings and promotions! Your refreshed skin awaits!

3 Powerful Benefits of Celluma LED

Sat, 13 Apr 2024 21:25:26 GMT

LED: The Ultimate Solution for Fine Lines, Acne, and Pain

LED Claims

There are many LED devices that claim to help with conditions like acne, wrinkles, muscle and joint pain, arthritis, and rosacea. Celluma stands out in the crowd because it has won over 40 aesthetics awards since 2015! The company prides itself on integrity and holds itself to very high standards. They set out to create devices that could be used both in spas and at home, to be FDA approved, and to use the highest quality light therapy.

Celluma LED Ideal Candidates & Uses

According to Celluma’s website, this product is safe for everyone to use except for children under age 12. This limitation is mainly because there is not enough clinical research regarding low-level light therapy’s effectiveness and safety on children. Low-level light therapy is a non-aggressive therapy that can offer truly profound effects for all skin types, body aches and concerns. Several of our own service providers at Sanctuary Spa have used Celluma themselves and on family members, and are quick to recommend this device and service to anyone with bruises or arthritis conditions.

The Celluma product itself is a flexible panel and designed to be placed near, or better yet, on the skin. The closer Celluma is to clean, bare, dry skin, the better the light waves will be absorbed by skin cells. When placing over the face, Celluma can be bent into a “C” shape and placed over the face from ear to ear. Because of its flexibility, this product can easily be used not only on the face but on the back, shoulders, face and decollete, the list goes on! Other products that are simply shaped like a face mask just do not have the same range of use.

Still wondering if Celluma is right for you? There are incredible, illuminating benefits of low-level light therapy for so many different physical conditions. If you suffer from dermatological conditions, the cellular activity promoted by Celluma can help improve skin health and reduce inflammation. If you are an athlete or a weekend warrior with aching joints and muscles, Celluma can help accelerate recovery and reduce pain. There are so many applications for Celluma and we are thrilled to offer this product to our guests.

Celluma LED at Sanctuary Spa

3 Benefits of Dry Brushing

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 05:19:26 GMT

Dry Brushing Basics

Have you experienced dry brushing and all of the benefits? Have you ever heard of it? Keep reading to learn 3 great benefits of dry brushing. Easy enough to do at home or add-on to your next Sanctuary Signature Massage. Add our Dry Brush Enhancement to your next massage to address hard-to-reach places like your back!

Let's start with what is Dry Brushing? Simply, it is brushing your skin in a pattern with a body brush. Using a coarse, natural-fiber brush you or your massage therapist massages it over your body in upward, circular motions. These coarse fibers help remove dead skin. When the dead skin is removed, it helps eliminate toxins through the pore. It also helps your product absorb more of the products you want!

Benefit 1: Exfoliate the Skin

The friction created by the coarse bristles and the circular movements leads to the removal of dead skin cells. In addition to dead skin cells, any dirt and oil will be removed too. Once this flaky skin is gone, your radiant skin can start shining! Further, with the dead skin removed, your skin will increase its cell turnover and help reveal softer, smoother skin.

Benefit 2: Detoxify the Skin

The lymphatic system helps your body fight off infections. Fluids flow through the lymphatic system to help your body fight off infections. When exfoliating by moving the brush's coarse bristles over your skin, you will also be unclogging pores. Once unclogged, it is easier for your skin to release toxins. One way to release toxins is through sweat. Releasing toxins helps you stay healthy.

Benefit 3: Increase Circulation

Another benefit of Dry Brushing is that it can stimulate your nervous system. The pattern of dry brushing is recommended to be towards the heart, starting with the feet and hands. Methodically work your way toward the heart. Dry brushing speeds up the rate of blood pumping. The lymphatic system then moves more quickly, removing toxins and pathogens. Visually, after dry brushing, you'll notice your skin taking on a pink/red hue. Don't be alarmed, it usually is not a cause for concern. Instead, it's a sign of better blood flow. This stimulation leaves you feeling invigorated and ready to conquer your day!

Dry Brushing Results

Dry brushing shows immediate results. After massaging your skin with a dry brush, your skin will have a radiant glow. Many feel like their skin appears smoother too, even reducing the appearance of cellulite. You'll notice the skin has a temporary plumping effect.

Instructions for Dry Brushing

First start with a clean dry brush and a space where you can brush with ease. The shower or tub makes for the easiest cleanup. However, you can also lay a towel down and pick the towel up at the end.

Step 1: Begin at your feet and brush your skin using wide circular, clockwise motions

Step 2: Manage the pressure based on you thin or thick your skin is. Thin skin like the abdomen, breasts, and neck should have a lighter touch. Thicker skin like feet, legs, and elbows can have a heavier touch.

Step 3: After your feet, legs, and stomach, continue to your arms.

Step 4: Rinse off in the shower to remove any flakes and dead skin.

Step 5: Finish your dry brushing ritual with a soothing body oil and moisturizing body cream.

Best Time to Dry Brush

Dry Brushing is most conveniently done at home in the shower, before you begin your day. Once you finish brushing your entire body, there will be dead skin flakes to be wiped away. In the shower, it will be easily rinsed away.

You can also add Dry Brushing as an enhancement to any of your Sanctuary Signature Massages. When added to your massage, your service will begin with your Dry Brush enhancement and then continue to your massage. All of our G-5 Cellulite Massages begin with Dry Brush service.

Membership Program vs Series Purchases

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 13:46:00 GMT

At Sanctuary Spa, we value the importance of self care for the mind, body and soul. If you are someone who wants to start prioritizing self-care we have some great options for you to consider. Ever wonder about the difference between our membership program vs series purchase? In this blog we will discuss the benefits of our membership program vs series purchase of one type of service. For our membership program, we will explain the perks and our policies. Similarly, we will explain our series to give you a better understanding of both and help you decide on the best option for you! Keep reading for all the great benefits and differences between our membership program vs series purchase.

Sanctuary Spa Membership: How it works

Membership Flexibility

A nice thing about our membership is that these packages roll over to the following month, so you do not miss out on your services. If you’re on vacation, busy with work, or just holding it together with carpool and after school activities, your spa packages will be waiting for you! We can combine your accrued packages to use for multiple services on the same day or to cover any upgrade fees. For example, if you weren’t able to come last month, this month you can partake in a 100-minute massage by combining your membership packages. Or, you can choose to apply the amounts towards a Tres Luxe Facial to cover some of your upgrade costs.

Additionally, you can transfer packages to non-members. Current Sanctuary Spa members who have multiple packages find that gifting their packages to friends and family for a special event or holiday is a great way to make use of them! Have a friend in town? Invite them to join you! Want to trade off with your partner? Great way to share in these self-care benefits.

Membership Perks

Additionally, our members receive 10% off all retail products. Love a membership product you received? Purchase the full size and save! Want to upgrade your cleanser? Your esthetician can guide you to the best product for your skin. And you can save! Ready for a full set of products to enhance your skin and body care rituals? We have natural, good for your products for all your needs!

Popular Upgrades

Series Packages

Some of our services provide the best results when done in succession. For example, our Micro-current Facial. It is fantastic for minimizing the appearance of fine lines. Our estheticians recommend you begin with at least 3 services within 4 weeks. And then, monthly for maintenance. Purchase a Micro-current Series to commit to 6 services. You pay for 5 services and get 1 service free! Great savings for you.

Another example is if you struggle with acne. Your esthetician might suggest a series of Extraction Facials to enhance your Personalized Facials. These facials will help you achieve the look of clearer skin. Purchase a series of Extraction Facials since you know you’ll use them. With a series purchase, you also don’t need to come every month. You can choose your frequency.

We also have a great option to reduce the look of cellulite. Your massage therapist may suggest a series of G-5 cellulite treatments. Similar to Micro-current Facials, it’s great to begin this service with several in the first month. And then after you can move to receiving once per month for maintenance.

We have multiple series options for you to purchase once you discuss your best option with your esthetician or massage therapist. The most popular series is a package of 6. You pay for 5 and get 1 service free. Our series packages vary from 6 or 12 treatments. When you buy 10 treatments, you get 2 free. Again depending on your therapist’s recommendation, you can select your best option when you checkout with our guest care team.

Membership vs Series

Both of these options are wonderful ways to commit to self-care. We at Sanctuary Spa are here to support your journey of a healthy lifestyle. Our Membership Program is a fantastic way to explore all things spa! You get the flexibility to choose between facial or massage. Even better, you get great discounts on all things spa! Try a new service every month! Create your ultimate home care rituals. Be very intentional with every aspect of your self-care. Plus, you can inspire others in your life by gifting services.

Have a very focused body or skincare intention? Our series service offers amazing savings. Choose from any of our services for a series package. You can purchase your series of 6 and use 3 services in the 1st month. You can also purchase your series of 6 and use 3 services in the first 6 months. A series offers great savings, especially when you know exactly which services you are interested in getting.

We hope that creating this membership vs series blog is helpful in helping you decide what the best path is for you and your self- care journey! For any questions please email our guest care team at guestcare@besanctuary.com . Call us or text us at 713-622-7722 to learn more. We’d love for you to stop by the spa to receive more info too.

Fall skincare tips

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 13:44:00 GMT

Welcome Fall

After a long few months of hot weather in the triple digits, the long awaited season has arrived! Fall is here, not only is it an eventful and exciting season but we finally get to experience cooler weather. For Houston, that comes a little bit later but this season helps us with preparing for those chilly months that are ahead of us. Autumn brings cooler weather and a drop in humidity which comes with dry air and causes the skin to become dry. Like wardrobe, as the season changes so should your skincare. Maintain happy and healthy skin with these fall skincare tips!

Refresh your skin

Our progressive chemical peel is a service that we recommend in the cooler months! If you were waiting for Summer to go by before booking, now is a great time! You can read more on these services or other services that we offer online at Besanctuary.com

Fall skincare essentials

Let’s start out with the most important tip, hydration! Moisturizers provide a protective barrier over the skin, allowing it to retain hydration. Due to the levels of humidity decreasing and cooler weather coming in, our skin is bound to become dry and flaky. Changing out your lightweight moisturizer to a thicker moisturizer will allow you to keep your skin hydrated. A great moisturizer is Source Vital’s Max Moisture Cream. This thick face moisture is perfect for dry skin or colder environments when our skin is prone to dryness and cracking. Another great option to keep your hands and feet hydrated is Source Vital’s lemongrass mani/pedi cream . This cream will deeply hydrate dry, cracked feet and hands. Lemongrass mani/ pedi cream can also be used as a full body moisturizer.

Fall skincare tips to keep in mind

We hope that these fall skincare tips will be helpful for you to keep on top of your skincare this season. For any questions on products or services call us, text us, or email us at frontdesk@besanctuary.com

Summer Skincare Tips

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 22:40:00 GMT

Sanctuary Spa Estheticians Share Summer Skincare Tips

We hope that you are having all of the fun this summer! Are you traveling, visiting the park, or heading to the beach every weekend? Wherever you might be this summer, we are here to help with your skincare routine for healthy skin. It is so easy to get caught up in all of the fun that this wonderful season has to offer, but the change in season can often cause your skin to change as well. Knowing what products to use and what products to avoid this Summer will help you keep your skin on the right track! Two of our estheticians shared their favorite summer products with us. Keep reading for Tamara and Karen’s summer skincare tips!

Tamara’s Summer Skincare Go To’s

Our knowledgeable esthetician Tamara chatted with us about the products that she is recommending to her guests this summer! She started out with the obvious and most important, SPF. She favors Rhonda Allison’s Broad Spectrum Daytime Defense SPF 30 . Broad spectrum sunscreen protects the skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays. “A lot of guest’s don’t know this, but not all sunscreens are broad spectrum. It’s important to protect the skin against all harmful rays.” said Tam. Especially in the summer, it is important to stay protected and re -apply sunscreen every few hours. Even if the weather appears overcast or you’re simply in your car with minimal exposure. Try to remember to apply and reapply that sunscreen.

Another one of Tamara’s recommendations for the summer is to keep the skin hydrated. Usually a lot of guest’s believe that you should focus on hydration in the colder months. But keeping the skin hydrated is as important in the summer. Tamara loves spending time in her pool, hanging with her family. If you also enjoy time out in the sun, at the pool or at the beach keep water nearby. These outdoor activities may cause the skin to be even more dehydrated as our body sweats out our moisture.

Karen’s Summer Skincare Favorites

Our lovely esthetician Karen is passionate about skincare year-round! Hailing from Costa Rica, she also knows a thing or two about maintaining healthy skin in summer temperatures. She, like Tamara, also believes that extra hydration is essential in the summertime! Her favorite product year-round is Rhonda Allison’s Hyaluronic Acid . It is so great to add that extra boost of hydration. Hyaluronic acid diminishes the look of fine lines and wrinkles. So, add to your routine to restore a youthful, plump complexion. This lightweight, hydrating serum makes the perfect moisturizer for the summer time.

Lastly, Karen is loving our new addition to the spa, Rhonda Allison’s Oceanic Vitality Serum. A potent, pigment serum that uses the power of brown algae to inhibit tyrosinase and melanocyte activity. Wow that was a mouthful! Good thing we have a trusted estheticians to guide us to the best products. This serum infuses the skin with antioxidant protection and lightening support for younger- looking, radiant skin. Plus, it’s great to pair with C-Peptide Complex too.

How to Keep Up with Your Skin this Summer

Cleanse, cleanse, cleanse! If you are not already cleansing your skin up to twice a day, start now. Your nighttime cleanse is extremely important. During the summer we are sweating a lot more than usual. If we don’t cleanse the sweat and bacteria off the skin, all of that becomes trapped in the skin. This bacteria can lead to break outs. Don’t go crazy though! Try not to cleanse more than twice a day or use a very gentle cleanser. Cleansing too much could dry out your natural oils, forcing your skin to get out of balance.

After you cleanse you will want to use a refreshing toner to soothe your skin after being out in the sun. Source Vital’s Rose Toning Essence or Blue Tansy Toning Essence are both great options for this. Lastly, you are going to want to be cautious using skin correctors and retinol. These kinds of products can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and using them without proper precautions can cause damage in the long run. To learn more about these products head over to https://shop.besanctuary.com/collections/skincare.

We hope that all of these summer skincare tips were helpful and will make your skin- care routine a breeze this season! Schedule an appointment today to learn more about our amazing products. Call or text us at 713-622-7722, schedule online at besanctuary.com/book or DM us at @sanctuaryspahou .

Acne Treatment Healing Journey

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 14:21:00 GMT

We started with Jill explaining some basics about acne. Acne is a common skin condition that typically affects people ages 11-30. Of course, it can appear at any age. Acne occurs when the pores of your skin become blocked by hair, sebum, bacteria or dead skin cells. There are many factors that cause acne. Some factors are hormonal changes, diet, stress or simply genetics.

There are also different types of acne. The most common types of acne are blackheads, whiteheads, papules and pustules. Starting with blackheads, blackheads are open bumps on the skin that fill with excess oil and dead skin. As their name suggests, they appear black on your skin. Then we have whiteheads, bumps that remain closed by oil and dead skin. Again, they appear white on the skin. Next, there is a papule. This type of acne appears as red or pink bumps that become inflamed. Pustules are pimples that contain pus. Most often these have a yellowish appearance. Your talented Sanctuary Spa esthetician can treat all of these forms of acne.

Jill says cleansing your skin with a proper cleanser is the first step to tackling the acne clearing process! She provided two suggestions for your acne treatment plan. Source Vital’s Lemon Gel Cleanser contains antibacterial turmeric root powder and micro algae to dissolve makeup, dirt and oil. Rhonda Allison’s Green Tea Beta Cleanse is an alternative choice. This corrective cleanser contains salicylic acid, mandelic acid and heart of green tea. These ingredients combine to help clear breakouts and reduce bacteria and inflammation. Both cleansers are great options for acne- prone skin. Guests have found that using one cleanser in the morning and the other at night has helped their skin tremendously!

Next, Jill recommends using Rhonda Allison’s Mandelic Repair Serum. A common side-effect of acne is post inflammatory hyperpigmentation or red marks, left after blemishes are healed. This product is a gentle exfoliator that is great for all skin types, even if you have Rosacea. Used after your cleanser, this exfoliator brightens the skin and evens out your complexion. A go-to for your evening routine, begin using it 3-4 times a week and increase as needed.

In your morning or evening routine, you can add Rhonda Allison’s Vital Repair Gel after you cleanse and after you apply Mandelic Repair Serum. Jill recommends this serum as a key product to help heal acne lesions. Vital Repair Gel contains epidermal growth factors to promote cellular turnover and aloe vera to soothe your skin.

Lastly, Jill highly suggests that you finish off your regime by adding an SPF! Not a surprise to us as all of our estheticians promote SPF as their number one prevention product. An SPF of 30 or higher will protect your skin from developing further hyperpigmentation. Plus, it’s important in any pro-youth skincare routine and to prevent skin cancer. Remember, even if it’s overcast outside, apply SPF! UV radiation is always present, so you should apply daily and even refresh your SPF throughout the day.

2 In-Spa Treatments to Address Acne

Jill also recommends the Extraction Facial . The Extraction Facial is 45 minutes and focused on freeing your skin of impacted breakouts. Of course, you can always schedule a 75 minute Personalized Facial and add an emphasis on extractions, if you’d like more time and more facial massage touches. Not all breakouts are ready for extraction. These visits will allow your esthetician to best prepare your skin. Plus, if you’re faithfully following your at-home skincare routine, your time in the room will be most effective.

After extracting the skin, your esthetician will follow up with a high frequency treatment. High frequency helps with bacteria and the healing process of the extracted skin. It helps because it promotes increased blood flow in your skin. That increased blood flow helps with cell renewal. The high frequency also promotes detoxification of your skin. Facials can bring up breakouts sitting under the skin, so be aware that your skin can purge in between services.

Adding LED light therapy to the end of your facial is also a great step. The LED light used is a cellular panel that is FDA approved that utilizes blue light along with red light and infrared technology. Yes! Rocket scientist approved help for you skin. The blue light is a surface light that targets blemishes to kill the bacteria. The red light targets deeper into the skin to promote healing and collagen production. And lastly, infrared calms and soothes the skin and any swelling associated with acne. This service is 30 minutes and an easy addition to any facial treatment. When in the spa, your esthetician can set up the LED and even provide a hand massage, if you’d like.

How often should I get in-spa treatments?

It’s important to remember that we typically recommend seeing your esthetician every 4-6 weeks once you are in maintenance mode. However, when you’re actively treating acne, you may want to space your appointments every 2-3 weeks so that you’re working with your esthetician to address acne at all stages. Jill’s recommendation for the extraction facial is purchase as a series of 6, and then working with you esthetician and your schedule figure out your frequency. The LED light therapy is recommended 3 times a week for 4-6 weeks, depending on the severity of your breakouts. If you don’t have time in your busy schedule to come into the spa that often, we do offer a rental program so you can use the cellular panel at home at your convenience.

Visit Sanctuary Spa

Combining in spa treatments and proper consistent home care is key to your acne treatment journey. Remember, acne doesn’t just effect teens! Whatever your age, Jill and Sanctuary Spa’s estheticians are here to help. Call or text us at 713.622.7722. Schedule your services online at besanctuary.com/book. Or even email us at guestcare@besanctuary.com or DM us @sanctuaryspahou. We are ready to go on this skin care journey with you!

Father’s Day gift guide

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 19:19:00 GMT

What will you be gifting dad?

For the business dad…

Let’s start out with the dad who sits behind a desk all day. After a long day of staring at paperwork and a computer screen, most dad’s want to get home to kick back and relax. Our first kit is perfect for this! Our first kit contains our Sanctuary Spa robe. This robe is perfect for dad to lounge in after a long day at work. To accompany this robe, we decided to add a black velvet candle in the scent “man cave” for him to burn as he relaxes and cozies up while watching his favorite tv show.

For the active dad…

For the dad who likes to be active we recommend our sporty gift box. This box contains Source Vital’s sports balm , great for easing sore muscles and joints and perfect to take on the go with you. It also includes Source Vitals’s analgesic bath & body oil , that is great to apply to any areas of pain or soreness or to add into a bath. We also threw in Source Vital’s invigorating body wash great to recharge the body and mind and condition beard oil to help dad keep his beard hydrated. All great products to have dad feeling fresh and brand new after a workout!

For the dad who has everything…

Next, we have a gift box for the dad who may already have it all. Most of the time these are the hardest dads to shop for because what do we get a man who buys everything they want already?? No worries, we have you covered! Gift dad a Sanctuary Spa gift card for one of our wonderful packages! A great recommendation is our Blissful Package . The Blissful Package includes a 75 minute Sanctuary Signature Massage and a 75 minute Personalized Facial . If he is not big into facials than any of our 75+ minute Sanctuary Signature Massages with an enhancement like hot stones or the stress relief backpack will be perfect.

For the dad who appreciates self- care…

Lastly, a great gift idea for a dad who loves to relax and loves self- care is any of Source Vital’s essential oil roll on’s. These Roll On’s are perfect because they fit into anybody’s pocket. Plus they can be used on the go. Some great options would be the stress relief roll on, evolve roll on and breathe roll on. Another great gift would be any of Source Vital’s body washes. Specifically the stress relief body wash, perfect for dad to unwind after a long day.

These are only a few of the gifts that we know any dad will love and appreciate! Visit the spa to learn more about our products and services or visit our website at http://besanctuary.com

Benefits of a Sanctuary Spa Signature Massage

Thu, 05 May 2022 18:53:00 GMT

Massage therapy offers a lot of great benefits for the mind, body and soul. Have you experienced the wonders of a Sanctuary Spa Signature massage? Keep reading to understand the massage benefits and our Sanctuary Spa Signature massage elevations. Plus, learn how to choose your massage times based on the benefits. We guarantee that you will want to run to schedule a massage!

What are the benefits of massage therapy?

Let’s start out with the benefits: stress relief and relaxation are what most of us think about when we hear the word “massage”. There are so many benefits that massage therapy brings. Improving circulation, energy and alertness, reducing pain, muscle soreness and tension are just a few. With reducing stress and tension comes lowering heart rate and blood pressure as well as improving your sleep patterns. In addition to great health benefits, massage therapy also improves flexibility and mobility and reduces pain and fatigue.

Benefits are so great for anyone, even if you do not feel like you have obvious pain or soreness. The past couple of years have been full of change and that has taken a stressful toll. The stressors may always be there. But being able to reduce it with a bit of TLC can make a significant improvement on how you tackle your daily tasks and live life to the fullest!

What makes Sanctuary Spa the best?

Why come to Sanctuary Spa? The answer is simple. Our therapists listen to your concerns and care about creating your perfect massage experience. Our Sanctuary Spa Signature massage starts with a consultation, every time. The therapist will determine what massage modalities you are in need of based on your description of your aches, pains and daily routine. It can be Swedish, deep tissue, trigger point therapy with firm to mid pressure. They also may incorporate some sports massage aspects or lymphatic massage too.

After the consultation, the therapist will step out so you get snuggled in the warm massage table. Once they step back in, they’ll help you clear your mind with some deep breaths and aromatherapy before starting the massage. We like to encourage our guests to take this time to meditate and let go of any stress, worries or outside problems. During your massage time our therapists will work on any problem areas, tension relief and use techniques and stretches to restore inner peace and relaxation.

How much time should I reserve for my massage?

Time plays an important role in your massage. More time allows for the therapist to provide more targeted relief to more areas. We offer 120 minute, 90 minute, 75 minute, 60 minute, 45 minute or 30 minute massages. The time determines how much relaxation, pain relief or stress relief you leave with after your service. That said, any amount of time is better than no time. Plus, our therapists are amazing at what they do so you’ll walk out better than you came in for sure.

Our 30 minute massage is great for any of you who want to come in on their lunch break. While not enough time, generally, for a full body massage, it can be helpful. We recommend this massage to a new guest who has never had a massage before and wants to get a feel for it, or to a re-occurring guest who only has one problem area to focus on. Our 45 minute Massage can become a full body massage or it can focus on two areas of the body. Let’s say you are having neck and shoulder pain, our 45 minute massage will allow our therapists to focus on those areas during your time with them.

Our 60 minute massage allows the massage therapist to give you a full body massage and focus on one problem area. It’s also great for maintenance mode. Once you’re on a regular schedule of getting massages, depending on your lifestyle, you can go to 60 minutes for great results. If you have more than one problem area, we recommend our 75 minute massage that allows you to receive a full body massage and allows the therapist to work on two focus areas.

Our 90 minute massage is recommended to those who want a full body massage, plus 1 to 3 areas of focus. This time frame allows your therapist to give your problem areas a bit of extra focus and attention. Lastly, our 120 minute massage is great for those of you who have not received a massage in a long time. Additionally it is great for those who are very stressed out or have multiple problem areas that need focus.

How often should I schedule a massage?

We encourage our guest’s to get regular massages every 4-6 weeks. This way your body can get used to that relaxation, become or maintain flexibility and to allow our massage therapist’s to work out any soreness or tension that may accumulate with time. Receiving regular massages will allow you to enjoy of all of the benefits that we listed above. Furthermore, you will feel like a healthier version of yourself! A great way to keep your self-care in mind is to join our membership program! For $99 a month you can enjoy a 50 min massage each month. In addition, a free product of the month, 10% OFF all products and 15% OFF additional services. If you enjoy those longer massages, you can upgrade your service and pay a small upgrade fee at the end of your service.

Where do I schedule or sign up!

You can call us at 713-622-7722 and our lovely guest care team will help you schedule. As well as walk you trough the option that is best for you. Additionally, you can email us at guestcare@besanctuary.com or schedule online at https://besanctuary.com/book . Make sure to follow our social media @sanctuaryspahou to stay on top of last minute openings and any promotions!

Mother’s Day gift guide

Tue, 03 May 2022 22:24:00 GMT

Gifts for all the mama’s

With Mother’s Day being a few days away, you may still be trying to find a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift for the leading ladies in your life. Well, Sanctuary Spa is here to help with all the ideas for the best Mother’s Day gift! So, we have created a gift guide with wonderful products that all of the mamas will love. We have awesome recommendations for the on the go mamas, mamas to be, toddler mamas, retired mamas, and all the in between.

Products that all will love

Let’s start out with a few products that we know all of the moms will love.

Sanctuary Spa Service breakdown

Treat mom to some ” me time”

Our top recommendations are our wonderful packages . Our packages include multiple services that mom will enjoy! Plus, includes gratuity! Keep reading for a few packages that are perfect Mother’s Day gifts!

The Abscond package is great to gift to a mama that wants to get a feel for the spa world or to the mama who is always on the go and limited on time. This package includes a 30 minute Brea’s Signature Restorative facial and a 45 minute Sanctuary Signature massage.

Our Zen mama package is the perfect gift for the mama to be! Send her into complete bliss with a relaxing 60 minute prenatal massage and a 60 minute personalized facial guaranteed to leave her glowing and refreshed.

For the mama’s who have little ones running around and need a day to themselves we recommend our Blissful package. Simply a wonderful package to help her escape for 3 hours, it includes a 75 minute signature massage and a 75 minute personalized facial that will leave her feeling renewed!

Another great option for the mama who needs to get in that extra relaxation is our Renewal package! This package does just that, it leaves you feeling relaxed and renewed. It includes a 120 minute massage and a 90 minute Minkyti facial. Learn more about our Minkyti facial on our website under facials.

If you want to spoil two mama’s or want to have a spa day with mom, our Duo package is the option for you! This package includes two 60 minute signature massages that you can enjoy in the same room or separate rooms and two 60 minute personalized facials.

A gift card makes the best gift

Let Mom choose her own self-care!

Having a hard time deciding? Guest what?! We are running a gift card promotion through May 9th. For a limited time, every $150 gift card purchase we will give a bonus $25! So, if you are interested in any of our recommendations or services, now is the perfect time to purchase. Simply go online to besanctuary.com/gift to personalize your own E-gift certificate. Or, visit us at the spa to purchase a physical card and our guest care team will be happy to help.

3 Skincare Guides for Spring Break Travel

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 17:32:00 GMT

Sanctuary Spa is here to provide your skincare guide for any spring break trip you have planned! Are you ready for spring break? Is your skincare travel bag ready for spring break? Whether you have been planning your spring break vacay for months or are getting down to planning all the last minute details for your spring vacation, we want to know all about it! Where will you be going? Where will you be staying? What will you do there? And, here’s where we can help, have you considered your spring break skincare?

How will your skin react in a different climate? When planning a vacation, many forget about their skin because you are too excited about the “fun” and “exciting” parts of your trip. At Sanctuary Spa, we hear from our guests all the time when they get back from their trip. Once back, they are need of some TLC for their skin. Let us help you with these skincare guides based on where you are traveling for spring break. Maybe the products that are sitting on your countertop will work. Or maybe you need to trade out a few key pieces!

Let’s face it, many stick to the same skincare ritual all year long. You get stuck in a routine and don’t think of if it is benefiting our skin or not. Sanctuary Spa is here to help! We know that planning a trip is stressful enough. So our team has put together some tips for different climate types that you may be visiting this spring break.

Making Plans, Remember Your Skincare

Let’s start with Houston, if you are planning on having a staycation then you know that Houston climate can be very humid in the Spring and Summer time. With thunderstorms predicted at the end of spring break, the humidity is definitely going to show up!

The past few months have been a cycle of cold and warm weather so your skin-care ritual has probably been inconsistent. Because we have experienced cold weather our skin tends to become dryer, even for those of us who have oily skin. Those with oily, combination or acne-prone skin can experience humidity induced skin issues. The microdermabrasion facial is great to give your skin that deep exfoliation it may need to get it in shape just in time for Spring. By removing the dead skin cells, you’ll reveal the new skin underneath that is ready to soak up all the serums that you use!

COLORADO Skincare Guide – Skiing or chilling in the lodge?

FLORIDA Skincare Guide – Sunny days by the pool!

NEW YORK Skincare Guide – Visiting a Broadway Play, Shopping on 5 th Avenue or Museums?

Sanctuary Spa is Your Skincare Guide!

With so many options that you could be visiting this Spring, maybe some that were not mentioned in this blog. When you have a trip coming up, be sure to mention it to your Sanctuary Spa massage therapist or esthetician so they can guide you. In between visits, feel free to call or text our friendly guest care team. They will ensure to chat with your esthetician or therapist for recommendations. works in one climate, may not work in another. We want you to keep that glowing skin that you have worked so hard to achieve!

Sanctuary Spa welcomes you contact us! Call or text us at 713.622.772. Visit us at 1701 S Shepherd Dr, Ste C. DM us @sanctuaryspahou . Email us at guestcare@besanctuary.com with any questions on appointments or products. Our team will be more than happy to help you schedule your next service or help you put the perfect travel kit together!

As always, we look forward to hearing from you!

Sanctuary Spa Donates to Animal Justice League, Dog & Cat Rescue

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 18:17:00 GMT

In August of 2021, our family was ready to add a dog. We searched petfinder.com and looked at soooo many dogs! We came across our boy, Tipton (such a proper name), with this cute picture. During Tipton’s intake at the La Porte shelter, they noted his great attitude! They also noted that he had a mass on his leg. They recommended it be surgically removed and then examined.

Amazingly, Animal Justice League not only saved Tipton’s life by getting him out of the shelter, they found him a foster and committed significant funds to bring him to full health. When we found his picture, he had been with the foster for four months.

From Finding Our Dog to Adoption

Animal Justice League was there every step of the way though! They provide the first two weeks as a getting to know each other time. They look for a final “yes” before they list as the adoption complete! Even more helpful, they are always available for questions or support down the road. For our boy, they have required quarterly checkups, for the first year, with an Oncologist to ensure he doesn’t have any additional cancerous growths. We have now had Tipton as part of our family for 1 year! What better celebration than to raise money for organization that saved his life and brought him to us!

Animal Justice League Support

Incredibly, the Animal Justice League is run entirely by volunteers! These passionate animal lovers are incredible, tirelessly working to help animals. Volunteers help by fostering, vetting applicants, raising funds, and more. They are always looking for more help, read about all the ways you can help and apply on their site .

Donate to Animal Justice League

For the month of September, Sanctuary Spa is donating 3% of our revenue to Animal Justice League, an animal rescue group in Houston! A percentage of every dollar you spend on getting any service or purchasing any retail will be donated to help stray dogs and cats find a forever home, happy & healthy. Yes!! You read that right!

Sanctuary Spa also has a facial for everyone! Choose the Signature Brea’s Restorative Facial if you’re looking for a thorough deep cleanse for your face and relaxing massage touches too. If you have multiple concerns and are looking for targeted results plus recommendations for your next advanced facial, schedule a Personalized Facial. Anti-aging goals? Choose Microcurrent, Minkyti or Oxygen. Acne treatment? Choose our from our Extraction, Purify or Clarify facials. Exfoliation to reveal glowy skin? Choose between Microdermabrasion or Bio-Brasion. Wanting to lighten and brighten your skin? Add Celluma LED or a Knesko Diamond Collagen face mask to any facial!

We also have online or in-person shopping options so you can create your zen spa at home ! Browse our website for all of our Source Vital Apothecary, Rhonda Allison, and Knesko products. Any purchases made on our website or in our spa will be included in our donation! We also offer cute accessories like earrings and necklaces, candles to help with aromatherapy and mood, and even satin eye masks to help get some zzz.

Help us donate to animal rescue group, AJL, this September. Every single dollar donated makes a difference!

Simple Skincare for the Modern Man

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 22:23:00 GMT

Sir Vital was formulated with the modern man in mind. They paid attention to every detail, addressing skin concerns, deep blue logo, naturally derived, with effective ingredients and woodsy, deep, warm, vibrant aromas that excite any man, or woman!

Taking the heart of Source Vital and tweaking ingredients, oils, and textures to suit specific Men’s needs. Ingrown hairs, variety of skin concerns like minimizing congestion or addressing acne, encouraging healthy radiant skin, and support skin as it ages are all goals of Sir Vital products.

How committed to skincare are you?

A lot of men find a simple, effective routine that is easily laid out not only takes guess work out of how to use the products but also encourages the actual use of them! Some guys also, are avid skin care lovers and thrive with complex routines. Pairing some targeted Rhonda Allison products with Sir Vital would be amazing. Products like Mandelic Arginine for overall brightness and protection, or shifting to the Beta Green Tea Cleanser during bouts of inflamed red skin and acne, are great options! Let’s run through a super quick routine that anyone can follow and use for guidance to grabbing a few skincare products!

Simple steps to follow…

Sir Vital Cleanse , is rich, invigorating, and deep pore cleansing. It’s a parallel product to our Source Vital’s Algae Deep Cleanse, think peppermint wake up calls, with an enhanced blend of Essential Oils to target brightness, dull skin, hydration, and more all while giving a deep, woodsy, earthy aroma. Spruce, Amyris, Sandalwood, and Patchuli to name a few!

How to use: This cleanser can be used morning and night, to remove dirt, oil, and impurities. Massage vigorously into skin and work into a rich lather (non sudsing!) and rinse with tepid water!

Grab a Source Vital Exfoliant to get your skin refined and renewed. The Silt Scrub is a great option for most skin types, gently resurfacing and leaves the skin feeling fresh. The grain size is easy to work with even with most beards but be sure to rinse really well after gently scrubbing the skin! Using the Aroma Peel is another great exfoliant, especially for our dudes with facial hair!

How to use: Apply 15-20 drops and massage into skin vigorously, then buff with a wash cloth and get ready to tone or apply your favorite serum!

Y’all, now let’s get into BEARD care!

The Beard Oils by Sir Vital are exquisite products to add to your routine not only for beard care but also that precious skin underneath- it needs love too!! They carefully curated three go to Oils for any beard concern.

Thrive by Sir Vital uses Copaiba Balsam Oil, Hemp Seed, and Coconut Oil to encourage a thick, luxurious beard. Tame Beard Oil will condition and get any unruly or straggly beards to fall into place! This Peppermint Sage oil with Avocado Oil and Jojoba Seed Oil will please all your senses. Condition Beard Oil rounds out their trio, pulling together Blue Tansy, Avocado, Hemp, and Argan Oil to treat “beardruff”, dry skin, and course or brittle hair!

Did you know that you can even customize your beard oil or a beard oil for a gift to suit specific concerns and preferences?! Yes! It’s so true and seriously there are so many combinations you can create, the options are literally endless. Choose from aromas like Black Pepper Pine, Cilantro Citrus, Cypress Mint, or Patchouli Lime… like whatttt? How divine do those sound?!? Creating a beard oil online is super simple and foolproof, truly a great gift for Birthdays, Father’s Day, or Graduations, even Christmas!

Don’t forget Sir Vital has your shaving needs to with their Shave, a gentle and soothing shaving cream, Soothe , made with Mango and Shea Butter, and Soothe to calm the skin post shave, with Aloe and Seaweed! Oh and of course, always moisturize and apply SPF during the day!

Ready for your spa trip?!

Are you ready to take the plunge into elevating your skincare AND beard care, or do you know someone who would love a new beard oil?! Stop by Sanctuary Spa, grab a few products, snag a Sir Vital Travel Kit, or even treat yourself or your man to a Debonair Facial to get personalized recommendations and experience the spa world for themselves!! We offer the Debonair Facial in 60 Minute ($110)or 75 Minute ($135) time lengths. This facial is fantastics for all the common skin conditions for males, whether they have beards or shave every day. With the hot towels, facial massage and deep cleanse, they will come out of this facial refreshed! Add on a Sanctuary Signature Massage for a great spa time!

Our Modern Man Package includes a Sanctuary Signature 60 Minute Massage Plus Sports Pack Enhancement and a Men’s Debonair 60 Minute Facial. For $290, this package includes gratuity and is the perfect gift for Father’s Day, Birthday, or any day! We look forward to seeing you and your loved ones at Sanctuary Spa soon.!

with joy,

annie

Annie is a Licensed Esthetician who shares the love of holistic skin care, essential oils, and the mind body connection Sanctuary Spa treatments offer. Telling the story of Sanctuary is a passion of Annie’s and something she enjoys doing in this season of life outside the treatment room!

Facials & Massages on repeat!

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 15:26:00 GMT

For many of us a monthly massage , or seasonal facial is a beautiful way to maintain you skin or relieve that work stress that builds up. However, there are times where we need to be seen more. Acne that all of a sudden flared up and is out of control, deep congestion that is building up at a rapid rate, a twinge in your neck that is causing serious issues, or maybe your wanting to treat those facial muscles deeply and avoid any cosmetic injections! These times, are exactly when you need a series of treatments from Sanctuary Spa.

Let’s break it down…

Series of treatments are purchased at a discounted rate, upfront, and never expire! But let’s be real, you’ll use them up in no time! Let’s dig in to how series really work! We offer 6 treatments for the price of 5, all year!!! This makes it more affordable for you to commit to big changes in your body and skin. We do offer some even bigger saving during special events sometimes (hello, Guest Appreciation Week!)!

Sneak Peak into some series & just how they work…

So. how does it work? How often do you actually come for a series?! That will totally depend on your reality schedule and lifestyle wise and your therapists recommendations, because everyone truly varies. Let me give you a guideline though!

Deep lines, skin struggling with elasticity showing strong signs of aging would be great to treat with Microcurrent! Depending on your skin condition, your therapist might recommend a series of 12 or 6, to be done initially, and then spaced out to maintain those glorious results! You could start off with 2 a week, for 6 weeks, then phase to 1 Microcurrent Facial a week, then 1 a month. After that point you could alternate a monthly Membership Facial with a Microcurrent Facial to give your skin the benefits of both worlds. Microcurrent works with low electrical current to stimulate and re-educate muscles, the result is instantly noticeable but when done in a series it is life changing.

Let’s say your skin is having serious hydration issues, appears dull, and tight; let’s opt for a Oxygen Infusion . This facial targets hydration struggles by boosting the skin with low weight Hyaluronic Acid revealing an instant glow and immediate plump. These facials are best in a series of 6, with 1 weekly until complete!

Perhaps the past year has really taken a toll on your body and mind. Between the blend of working from home, added stress of the world, and perhaps some changes to your daily flow, it’s no wonder our bodies are feeeeeling the tension.

To help get your body and soul back to center, opting for 6 weeks of weekly massages would be divine to jump start that healing. Imagine knowing, every Tuesday or whatever day works for you, you have a 90 min. Sanctuary Signature Massage on. the. BOOKS! How much joy would that bring you just knowing! I can feel the tension melt away and the peace of the Essential Oils, like Breathe Easy or Stress Relief , already! Switching to monthly massages post that 6 weeks experience of series, would be great to maintain all the progress you made!

Sanctuary Spa also offers series for our Signature treatments as well, not only our advanced treatments! Maybe you love your monthly Brea’s Restorative Facial and you want to keep that commitment all year, purchase a series so you can save some money! They never expire, so rest assured you can enjoy them at anytime.

Series serve a purpose in certain seasons!

I hope that this informative blog about all thing series, maintaining your skin and body goals, and how it all works here at Sanctuary Spa give you some insight and inspiration to take the next step in your care practices. We are on the cusp of launching our epic Guest Appreciation Week NEXT WEEK, y’all! Mark your calendars and stay tuned to our Social Media page for all of the amazing specials we have going on. From a dream giveaway, product specials, and of course, our Series Sales, where you get 7 treatments for the price of 5!

With joy,

Annie

Winter Skin, Avoiding the Dryness!

Sat, 09 Jan 2021 04:50:00 GMT

Layers are Best

Where to Begin to Heal Winter Skin

First, let’s begin with simple seasonal swaps & then we will dive on in. In Houston, our usual glorious humidity is a perfect setting for Hyaluronic Acid & products heavy with Hyaluronic Acid as a main ingredient, like our Hyaluronic Serum by Rhonda Allison . However, with the dryer weather it’s best to proceed with caution as these products seek moisture to retain it. Bring out your oils ! Apply your creams! Nourish with that milky cleanser!

Next, increasing that shower temperature might feel amazing, but taking it too high dries the skin out even more! Opt for a warm shower of course but cool water for facial cleansing and exfoliating. Dry brushing prior to your shower or bath wo

uld be a great self care tip during winter, especially if it’s not something in your usual practice. This practice will slough off dead skin, increase lymphatic flow, and allow your hydrating moisturizers and creams to penetrate better!

Note to self, (’cause I’m guilty too!) turning on that heater full blast in your car feels so comforting but will totally dry you out. Layer your moisturizers on (thinnest to thickest!) every day and night! Try using Source Vitál Algae Serums for a oily hydrati

on, it will leave you feeling silky smooth and really absorbs into the skin. Source Vitál Algae Serums are featured in three scents and functions: Jasmine, Rose, and Neroli. Jasmine helps tired and mature skin look renewed. Rose calms irritated, red skin. Neroli can help the appearance of clarity for oily, congested skin. After cleansing your winter skin, layering the Algae Serum that’s best for your skin is the best way to keep away the dryness.

When to Remove the Layers

The cooler days and less blasting of the beautiful sun bring a great time to treat the skin in ways you might be hesitant too in summer! Bring on the enzymes and chemical peels if you choose that route! Use your Source Vitál Aroma Peel once a week to refresh and rejuvenate your skin. Aroma Peel is an exceptional alternative to harsh acids. Escape winter skin and relieve dryness with Source Vitál Aroma Peel, an amazing exfoliation. Remember, while the increase of exfoliating is appropriate, other adjustments need to be made as not to deplete the skin of vital hydration.

A daily hydrator from Rhonda Allison, Drops of Essence Hydration , are a sure fire way to increase your hydration. Especially, if your feeling tight, experiencing peeling or flaking, or dull. It’s rich in Omega 6, similar to our natural lipids. It locks in moisture and deeply soothes the skin. This will also amplify the efficacy and penetration of your other products!

Of course we can’t forget the body!

For the body, we already mentioned Dry Brushing, but what should you do after? Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!!!! Source Vital offers some of the most divine body creams. One of my absolute favorites is the Algae Extract . Back in 2015, when I moved to Wyoming in the dead of winter (I’m talking -13 degree weather!) the Algae Extract saved my skin hands down. The Aromatic Algae Extract is another option that has a light lavender aroma to it. Rose Body Cream is another great option.

The formula is so creamy, yet blends into your hands and skin so naturally. It is full of Shea and Cocoa Butter, Algae, and botanical oils like Hemp and Avocado! This Source Vitál Rose Body Cream is a buttery, creamy blend of natural ingredients that hydrate and replenish the skin.

Dryer skin is so common during winter, don’t feel alone! Tune into any signs of dryness so you can act quick. Look out for tightness, flaking or peeling when applying foundation or powder, redness, cracking, and sensitivity to products you usually use! We want to line you up and set you up for as nourished and hydrated skin as possible during this season. Great news for our Members , your product of the Month this month is your very own Drop of Essence !!! You are already on your path to hydrated skin!

Stay healthy, kind, and hydrated this holiday season, avoid winter skin with the help of your Sanctuary Spa team. Drop a comment if you ever have a question about navigating the best seasonal self-care routine for you most healthy skin.

With joy,

Annie

12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 14:30:00 GMT

Truly, gift giving is such a favorite thing of mine that I created this gift guide to help you! Gift ideas coming from contemplating who a person is … what they’d like … what they need, but won’t buy for themselves … how they’ll look when they open their present … how they’ll feel about their new gift! These things make me happy. And in a time when I know I need some happy, and I know my friends, family, loved ones need some happy, I’m pretty excited about my gift ideas this year. I’ve been so excited that I have been stocking the spa with so many great gift options!

We thought 12 Days of Christmas would be a fun way to highlight the different special people in our lives and our gift guide for great gifts ideas. for each of them! If you are looking for any ideas, give us a call, message us on Instagram or Facebook, or stop by. Everyone at the spa loves helping you choose the perfect spa gift!

12th Day Gift Ideas for the Athlete in your life –

1) Sanctuary Signature Massage : give them the ultimate relief for their muscles with our Sanctuary Signature Massage that is customized to their body’s needs and concerns. We offer massages in 90 minutes, 75 minutes, 60 minutes, or 45 minutes. Elevate their massage by adding our Sports Pak enhancement.

3) Ultimate Bath Set: help them recreate rest & relaxation at home with an ultimate bath set. Personalize by picking out products they’ll love. Source Vital Apothecary’s Analgesic Bath Salts or Analgesic Bath & Body Oil . Reduces the feeling of inflammation and promotes detoxification. Add one of Source Vital’s body washes and body scrubs that include beautiful aromatherapy. Elevate their bath set by adding a Wyatt-Vannin candle.

11th Day Gift Ideas for Your Mama

1) Personalized Facial : a completely consultative facial, our estheticians will design the facial to meet all the needs for your mom to have a fantastic, results-oriented facial.

3) Customize a bundle of skin products: add an ultimate eye cream, luxurious serum, or hydrating face mask as perfect additions to your mom’s at-home skincare routine. A great eye cream selection is the Rhonda Allison Peptide 3-N-1 Eye Cream . Reduce puffiness, minimize fine lines and brighten eye tissue. Choose SV23 for a luxurious serum that is anti-aging and antioxidant packed. Every mom needs a Knesko Nanogold Repair hydrogel face mask. Infused with microparticles of 24k Gold, this mask hydrates and firms skin.

10th Day Gift Ideas for the Wellness Guru

1) Minkyti Facial : an intense facial with deep cleansing, masking, acupressure facial massage and aromatherapy. A beautiful gift for that mindful person in your life who is looking to combine the peace for mind, care for skin with natural products, and amazing relaxation.

2) Mindful products: At the spa we offer a number of products to help support mindfulness and relaxation at home. Naturally purify air with a diffuser and essential oils. Set intentions of confidence, love, and clearing with our Love ‘N Lava Aromatherapy Bracelets. Each bracelet is a combination of a beautiful stone full of intention and lava rocks to carry the scent of their favorite essential oil. We also have a select variety of Salt and Rose Quartz Lamps and Stones to bring another level of intention to their home.

3) Aromatherapy: Whether you know their favorite oil ( Eucalyptus anyone?), choose a scent based on what you think they need in their life ( Serene Essential Oil Blend or Happy Essential Oil Roll On ) or choose a starter kit (like our Holiday Scents Kit), we have all you want to for your wellness junkie to fill their home and lives with natural, functional scents.

9th Day Gift Ideas for those Working Remotely

2) Create a basket of self-care love: especially for those working from home, bring the spa to them so they can create their sanctuary! We offer beautifully scented candles by Wyatt-Vanin combining aromatherapy and gorgeous candle vessels. Select a skincare kit so that they can care for their skin with natural, plant based products by Source Vital Apothecary. Elevate their skincare routine with a Rose Quartz Facial Roller so they can massage the serums in for the best results.

3) Shop Till You Drop Kit : while shopping may be more of an online activity nowadays, this body care kit is perfect to address any relaxation needs.

8th Day Gift Ideas for Your Bestie

1) Ultimate Duo Package : what better gift than an experience where you can create memories together and connect in safe ways. Our Ultimate Duo Package begins with Sanctuary Signature 60 Minute Massages. You can choose to have them in our couple’s room so y’all can have your massage together. Next, enjoy facials in separate rooms. This gift idea is a lovely way to get that rejuvenation you both need and extra fun because you get to enjoy it together!

3) Brow products and makeup bags: while we’re covering our faces, our eyes have taken such a greater importance. While many of us aren’t wearing full makeup (and our skin is thanking us!), a pop of mascara and beautiful brows are all we need. We offer Jentry Kelley Cosmetics brow gel, mascara and brow wigs.

7th Day Gift Ideas for Your Partner

2) Create a romantic evening at home: Source Vital Apothecary’s Relax & Renew Kit is a great gift for each other. It offers Serene Bath Salts, Lavender Body Lotion, Stress Relief Bath & Body Oil, and Tranquil Multi-spray to set the scene at home for an amazing bath. Add a JaxKelly Rose Quartz candle to inspire Love. We also offer bath bombs to add something even more special.

3) Massage oil: make your evening at home even more complete with Source Vital Apothecary Massage Oil. Choose Chamomile & Lavender Massage Oil for a beautifully relaxing oil. Choose Unscented so that you can add your favorite scent, like Euphoria Elixir or Fresh Essential Oil Blend for an enjoyable time.

6th Day Gift Ideas for Your Dad

2) At-home skincare routine: ensure he keeps his skin feeling amazing with our Sir Vital Cleanse and the beard oil of choice. The three beard oils meet the needs of any type of facial hair. Tame will calm the unruly mustache or beard hair. Choose Thrive to promote fuller, healthier facial hair. Finally, choose Condition to soften and balance his facial hair. Whatever the need, Sir Vital beard oils can help.

5th Day Gift Ideas for a Teen

2) Create the best gift basket: shop at the spa to find the best mix of luxurious bath bombs, cute pocket purses, gorgeous jewelry. JaxKelly has a cute gemstone line of stud earrings, Love ‘N Lava aromatherapy bracelets, and Source Vital Apothecary Aromatherapy Roll-Ons are just a few great ways to share the importance of mindfulness at a young age.

3) Natural Skincare Products: Our estheticians are happy to guide your teen to find the best skincare for their skin type. Simply call us to set up a time to meet about facial products, whether you’re looking to start out with a simple routine of a cleanser and face moisturizer or if you’d like a routine that includes masks and serums, or anything in between. We are here to help your teen begin their journey with healthy skin on the best path. We can also help with other skin issues for teens with our Deozein Natural Deodorant or variety of natural body washes and body scrubs .

4th Day Gift Ideas for a Loved One Needing Extra Support

2) Knesko Skin Masks : are a wonderful way to bring the spa home. A treat for mind, body, and soul, there are four collections to choose. Every mask is Reiki charged and each collection features a different element. Personalize your choice based on what your gift recipient most needs now. Choose Gold as it awakens the Third Eye Chakra to help build confidence by easing tension and anxiety. Diamond helps open their Crown Chakra for enhanced positive energy and creativity. Or, choose Rose Quartz for your friend that needs some focus on their Heart Chakra, encouraging them to open up to more self-love. Finally, select Black Pearl for your friend that needs help to unlock their Root Chakra, helping with detoxification and promoting inner strength.

3) Aromatherapy: a great way to give your friend that extra support throughout the day. We provide aromatherapy roll-ons like Happy , Love, Transition, Spirit, Balance are just a few of your options for choosing the best scent for your gift recipient.

3rd Day Gift Ideas for a Teacher

2) Spa at Home Relaxation Tower: all your teacher needs for self-care at home. This experience walks you through a 3-part “at home” spa day that includes a facial mask, a great bath, and silky soft skin. Great for those teachers who are in need of a time out. They can enjoy a little pampering and love with clean, natural products that nourish the body and spirit.

2nd Day Gift Ideas for our Health Care & Essential Workers

2) Himalayan Salt Lamp: help your essential worker friend elevate their decor with a salt lamp. Available at the spa for curbside pickup, a salt lamp has a tremendous amount of benefits. They can help to raise energy levels and sharpen concentration. They also raise energy levels and enhance your mood to keep them balanced throughout the day. Finally, they also help simply with purifying the air, calming allergies and reducing asthma. A fantastic addition to any room!

3) Hydration: staying home for work, as the weather changes, your friend will need extra moisturization throughout the day for their skin. Source Vital Apothecary’s Rose Body Cream is a luxurious cream with great antioxidants, Shea and Cocoa butters too. Rhonda Allison’s Drop of Essence is a face serum that combines Omegas 3, 6, and 9 with Vitamin E to deliver deep hydration.

1st Day Gift Ideas for YOU!!

2) Sanctuary Signature Massage with Stress Relief Backpack Enhancement : Whatever you are carrying stress for, our massage combined with our stress relief backpack can lift it away. Stress from work issues, from family concerns, or friendship/partner tensions can take a hiatus while you experience this immersive service catered to your body needs.

3) Curated At-Home Self-Care Package: Source Vital Apothecary’s Lemongrass Mani-Pedi Cream , Knesko Skin Klutch Mask gift set, and Rhonda Allison Hydra Glow Facial. Combine all the elements to give yourself relaxation and relief from head to toe. We believe adding aromatherapy can elevate any experience so complete your self-care package with a candle of your choice.

Gift Guide Wrap Up

We look forward to hearing or seeing from you soon. We offer beautiful options for in-spa services to cater to every personality, skin and body concern. As well, we offer a curated set of products to create a mindful, intentional, caring setup in your own home or on the go. We hope our gift guide spurred great ideas for you to gift your loved ones. As always, call us with any questions. You are welcome to shop online or chat with our guest care team via text or phone with any questions.

Facial Massage, A Daily Ritual

Sat, 17 Oct 2020 00:57:00 GMT

Elevate Your Self-Care with Facial Massage

Lets jump in y’all…

Alright, first things first, you do not have to be a trained esthetician or massage therapist to provide some delicious vibrant aging & amazing flow to your skin with some simple guidelines we want to share! The benefits of this range from delightfully relaxing, lifting and sculpting of the facial muscles, and product penetration. Above all, facial massage is some wonderful YOU time.

When done regularly, think daily 3-7 minutes, plus your monthly or quarterly facials , you are truly lifting these muscles and providing a youthful appearance that a lot of us are aiming for. Also, this natural, effective way of rejuvenating facial tone is phenomenal. Now, depending on your routine and your daily flow feel free to perform in the morning or in the evening! Without a doubt, if you have ample time… do BOTH morning and night!

sanctuary spa findings…

The movements for our Lift steps are encouraged for stimulating and lifting, an awesome go-to for vibrant aging and refreshing. Plus, the movements for our Optimal Flow, are geared towards de-puffing, aiding in lymphatic drainage. In other words, think puffy under eyes or stagnant areas of the face holding fluid.

behind the scenes…

When performing facial massage at Sanctuary Spa , we utilize custom blends of algae serums, botanical oils, penetrating Peptides, and so much more, so it’s important to choose your “slip” with intention at home! Certainly, if you need some guidance to pick the best serum for your skin, please reach out . For sure, you want a high quality serum that provides a great medium to work into your skin for several minutes. Remember, water based products tend to absorb into your skin quicker, reducing the time you have to play with them. Now, if you’re an oily skin type don’t let this deter you from picking an oil, we got you! A few examples of juicy serums to use would be; Source Vitals Prickly Pear Oil , SV 23 , a custom facial cocktail or Rhonda Allison’s Hydrating Grape Seed Serum , Infuse 7 , or Pumpkin E Serum .

power of touch…

More time TOUCHING your face during your skin care routine- the better. Your hands are clean, your face is fresh, and you are creating flow to your gorgeous face! Undoubtedly, it can be so easy at the end of an exhausting day to rush through and cleanse our skin for 5 seconds and rub some moisturizer into our cheeks, trust me I get it! But, think about setting aside the time to feel every contour of your cheeks, your jaw line, feel your orbital bone and how different pressure in different areas create different sensations all around your face! Then, envision, either going to bed in total bliss or feeling refreshed and ready to tackle a homeschool day, laundry, sourdough bread baking and more! And let’s be transparent, if you feel refreshed and choose to lounge & do nothing, you enjoy that to the fullest.

Simple Steps for Achieving Lift in Your Facial Massage

Easy Pointers for Optimal Flow of Your Facial Massage

With these at home protocols, areas that are constantly stimulated, used, expressed, and enjoyed; are sure to feel the love! We encourage you to share with us how you feel after trying. Definitely send us a selfie or tag us on your social media! We can’t wait to see y’all using & loving this!

with joy,

Annie

Annie Neilson

Just like a metamorphosis of a caterpillar, Annie’s career at Sanctuary has taken several metamorphosis, with each leading to something calling her in. Esthetics has her heart and so does sharing the joy it brings her. Assisting with social media, blogs, and education, Annie is finding her stride with sharing these passions. An avid nature lover, grateful mama, and holistic beauty fanatic, Annie is excited to bring you into her blogs!

Kim’s Skincare Routine & Massage Tips

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 04:23:00 GMT

This week, I got to talk to one of the most knowledgeable people I know regarding massage and esthetics, Kim!! Kim is our Senior Esthetician and Massage Therapist at Sanctuary Spa. We talked a bit about her Cidesco certification, (which is super amazing!!) what she does in her free time, and, of course her skincare routine, including what her fave products are right now. Can’t wait for you guys to hear more about Kim!

Kim: I obtained my CIDESCO certification in 2015 at the Institute of Cosmetology and Esthetics (ICE) in Houston. CIDESCO is the world’s major beauty therapy association and it’s certification is a prestigious qualification for Beauty Therapy and Esthetics. The rigorous training and education I received from ICE is something I’ll forever remember and cherish. Fun fact- our very own massage therapist Rudy was actually my Massage Therapy Instructor at ICE and I’m so grateful for him.

Sydney: Wow!! Kim, that’s so cool. And I love that you and Rude connected through that! It’s pretty cool that you’re able to mix massage in with esthetics. Speaking of esthetics, what is your go-to skincare regimen? Do you have a step by step ritual that you do every day?

Kim: My go-to skincare regimen includes lots of antioxidants during the day and restoring at night. My morning routine I use Rhonda Allison’s Foaming Peptide Cleanser , Cucumber Spritz hydrating mist, Antioxidant Complex , Elite EGF , eZinc Protection Cream and Eye Revitalizer . For my nighttime ritual I use Rhonda Allison’s Skin Brightening Cleanser , Source Vital Aromatic Emulsion , Mandelic Arginine Serum , SV Prickly Pear Oil and sometimes the Mega Brightening Serum or Acne Treatment for spot treatment.

Sydney: I looove the Skin Brightening Cleanser and Prickly Pear. I include those in my daily regimen too!! When you’re not working, what are your favorite things to do? Any hobbies?

Kim: When I’m not at work, I like traveling with my husband and making memories. I’ve recently picked up a new hobby of doing home projects and creating idea boards for our new home to make it our own. I also love jogging, riding my bicycle and cuddling with Arya, our beloved rescue cat.

Sydney: I love that. I’m glad you’re able to find things to do that you enjoy, considering what all is going on around us. Talking with you around the spa, I have learned how it’s equally as important to treat your body inside as well as having a great skincare routine. The HUM vitamins do exactly that. Which vitamin is your favorite and what is its purpose?

Sydney: I’ll have to try those out! But next, onto massage therapy !! When it comes to massage therapy, what do you think of as a “universal technique” that everyone can benefit from?

Kim: I believe the “universal techn ique” that can benefit everyone is Swedish Massage. A Swedish massage is made up of several techniqu es like petrissage, effleurage, tapotement, friction and vibrations. These techniques are beneficial in many ways such as increasing range of motion, improving circulation, posture and sleep but most of all helps you relax.

Kim: I can’t go without my sunscreen! It’s that one product you absolutely should not skip in your morning skin care routine. I use Rhonda Allison’s eZinc Protection cream SPF 22 . Its formula is a mineral emulsion and super lightweight for a perfect finisher to my morning skincare routine.

Sydney: I’m so glad we got to catch up, Kim. I love all the info you shared about your skincare routine and massage therapy. Thank you for letting me into a little piece of your life!!

Sydney recently completed her bachelor’s degree in Public Relations at the University of Central Arkansas. While in Arkansas, she discovered her love for strategic communication, social media marketing, and as well as being on the guest care side of the beauty and wellness industry. One of Sydney’s favorite aspects about this industry is learning about skincare, so she can not only use the best products for herself, but recommend them to others.

Jill’s 3 Home Skincare Routine Tips

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 01:52:00 GMT

Sabrina: Hi Jill! Thanks again for taking some time to share with our spa friends! When we decided to create a Rhonda Allison sale of 25% off all products , I knew I had to chat with you to get the best tips! However, let’s start with where you started – where did your passion for skin care begin?

Jill: I’ve struggled with acne and other skin issues for most of my life which lead me to start researching skincare products. In time, I also studied ingredients and how they affect the skin. I’ve always loved trying new products and new services in the esthetics arena which is what really drives my passion. There are always new ingredients and treatments on the horizon so there is always something new to learn and experience.

Sabrina: That makes so much sense! I know you always go the extra mile for all of your guests, do extra research to make sure you address all of their concerns. I also love all of our podcast discussions, you for sure live and breathe all things esthetics! Around this time, we’re usually chatting about the effects of summertime or vacations on our guest’s skin. This year seems so much different though! Have you seen some common skin concerns from your guests recently? And what suggestions do you have to help their home skincare routine?

Jill: Of course, I’ve seen a lot of people breaking out from wearing masks. Also a lot of skin irritation on the nose, causing dry flaky skin to build up which in turn can lead to whiteheads and blackheads. Also, the stress of everything going on can show up on your skin. A lot of people working from home that I see have said they have been slacking on keeping up with their skincare routine resulting in those breakouts and just general dull dry, dehydrated skin. It’s too easy to roll out of bed and just skip the skincare and go straight to your computer and work the day away… then you’re worn out so you just fall into bed. It’s been a stressful time for all of us.

Enzymes digest skin on the surface that is ready to come off unlike a chemical peel which is more invasive. Enzymes are great for sensitive skin that needs a gentle nudge back into your regular exfoliation at home. Rhonda Allison Derma Peel is a great starter enzyme. I’ve been using it a lot lately with new guests. It’s also nice for exfoliating dry lips as well, which also haven’t been getting as much TLC due to all of our masks.

Sabrina: Wow so true. I can see how people working from home can forget their full skincare routine when they feel like they haven’t “gone anywhere”. You’re so right though that even our mental stress, what’s happening inside, will show on our skin! Considering social distancing, summertime, upcoming fall time, what services do you most recommend to have within the next couple of weeks?

Jill: As we were discussing, gentle exfoliation is a great starting point. If you’re feeling really dry and dehydrated, adding a microdermabrasion is a perfect combination with an enzyme to remove that dead dry skin build up which in turn preps your skin for nourishing hydrating serums and creams.

This combination provides the skin with hydrating, calming and healing benefits to help in revealing a glowing complexion. The perfect treatment to renew and soothe irritated and damaged tissue.

Sabrina: Ahh yes, I love a good Microdermabrasion and Oxygen combo! Add in our LED with our Tres Luxe Facial and I am in heaven!! Ok, so we all know a facial once a month can’t “fix” our skin though right? So what do you say are the 3 most vital parts of a home skincare routine?

Jill: Everyone’s skin is different but most can benefit from a good Vitamin C or antioxidant serum which works hand in hand with the most important skincare ingredient – sunscreen! It is better to prevent than try to undo damage done to the skin. The sun is the number one killer of collagen. Sunscreen provides protection from daily free radical damage, and environmental stresses such as exposure to pollution. Rhonda offers lightweight sunscreens that can really battle the powers of the sun.

Sabrina: Such great info! Thanks for highlighting all of these Rhonda Allison products to help our guests make the best selections for our sale! 25% off is such a great deal! What are your other fav Rhonda Allison products right now?

Jill: Right now I’m loving the growth factor serums to calm, heal and stimulate collagen production for stressed out skin. Growth Factor Gel is a lightweight serum for oilier skin and necessary for acne prone skins who are using exfoliating treatments like Synergy A or Mandelic Arginine Serum. It has Aloe Vera and applies like a hydrating primer under makeup. My daytime favorite!

Growth Factor Serum is the next level up growth factor product as it’s more silky and really ramps up healthy tissue regrowth and balances moisture content for drier skin types. I love this serum for night after my Synergy A , which is my next favorite product.

Synergy A is a beautifully formulated Vitamin A that is micro encapsulated form from Retinal with a strengthening blend of stem cells to reduce inflammation and bacteria, promote healing and increase cell turnover. This is a powerful starter retinal gentle enough even for sensitive skin. Retinol is scientifically shown to stimulate collagen production which naturally decreases as we age.

Sabrina: Awesome! Thank you so much for all that info! I think our guests who read this blog will definitely have a better idea of what to buy! Let’s end our chat with some more insight about you. Specifically, for someone who spends so much time caring for others, what do you do for self care?

I also am a big advocate for LED light therapy . So much so I own my own Celluma LED device! I love to lay under the relaxing lights for 30 minutes before bed as it really helps me sleep better. To me it’s very relaxing and I try to fit it in 3 times a week. I find the most comfort in my daily prayer life, which calms my mind and puts any worries into God’s hands. So, always a work in progress, but those are my go-to’s for self-care.

Sabrina: Awesome, Jill. Thank you so much for those tips! Following you on Instagram, I also see your patio garden as a big outlet for self-care for you! Having such a terrible green-thumb, I love seeing all of your plants, especially as they flourish with all the love you pour into them. Thank you again for taking some time to chat with me for this week’s blog! I feel totally validated in choosing you to highlight some Rhonda Allison products for our guests to buy in the upcoming sale. As always, I am amazed at your deep knowledge of skincare. Your passion always shines through! And, how fun that our sale is also your birthday!! Happiest of birthday wishes, Jill, for a splendid year ahead!

***

Sabrina, owner of Sanctuary Spa, loves all things self-care, bodycare and skincare related! Sanctuary’s talented team inspires her everyday to learn more. Thankfully, she’s surrounded by the best and the brightest in the business! Everyday, we’re able to help so many guests enter the spa stressed and leave totally relaxed. That transformation makes her day and provides value to her life. When not at the spa, she’s spending time with her hubby, two children, three guinea pigs, and doggy, loving life with all its twists, turns and surprises.

Fun with Tamara

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 03:58:00 GMT

1. What’s your favorite part about working in this industry?

My favorite part is seeing guests’ confidence rise. When a guest and I find solutions and build regimens together. The result is not just youthful skin, but building their confidence and self esteem. I love helping people look and feel their best.

2. What do you like to do in your free time?

I have many interests such as exercising, listening to podcasts, organizing, and I just discovered that I love antiquing and looking for new treasures for my home. The most recent podcast I’ve listened to is called “Serial.” It’s an investigative journalism-type podcast about a case being opened back up after a murder. It’s so good!!

3. What do you think is a must-have Knesko Skin product?

Probably the Nano Gold Mask with the Knesko Jade Roller . It’s one of my favorites because it completely rescues my skin! It works for fine lines, sun damage, redness, and puffiness. The jade roller is a little heavier and bigger; I really like that (because it means good quality!) It just feels effortless whether I’m doing lymphatic drainage or pushing serum into my skin.

4. What’s your all-time fave product that we carry in the Spa that you can’t live without?

My favorite product is Rhonda Allison’s Balancing Grapeseed Serum . I use it at night after cleansing and it brings my red skin back to balance. It’s a light hydration and it’s the perfect product for hormonal issues. I will never be without it!! When I wake up in the morning, my skin feels calm and nourished.

5. We know you absolutely love skincare– how do you help your guests achieve their goals and skincare needs?

First, I listen to their goals/expectations beforehand. Then, I am able to really examine their skin, see what their problems/ concerns are, and see what certain products they could benefit from. Once I’m done with their facial , I’m able to make recommendations of products we have in the Spa to provide them with a good home care regimen, and of course to maintain the facial they received. Once I provide them with a skincare routine, I’ll monitor their skin when they come in for their following facials and see the progress we’ve both made with their skin.

Knesko ingredients range from Diamonds, Nano Gold, Rose Quartz, and Black Pearl. The Diamond opens your Crown Chakra and leads you to confidence and creativity. The Gold Mask, which is a symbol of beauty, purity and happiness opens your Third Eye Chakra, which leads to a purer life. The Black Pearl is a symbol of prosperity and power, which opens your Root Chakra, helping with self-confidence. The Rose Quartz is the embodiment of love while opening your Heart Chakra to encourage self-love.

At Sanctuary Spa, we strive to make our guests feel confident in their own skin and bring them happiness from each visit.

Self-Care Tips with Tina

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 03:41:00 GMT

When you relocated from Louisiana did your skin/body experience any changes?

Yes, when I relocated from Louisiana my skin/body did in fact experience some changes. I have combination skin but my skin is maturing and a little hydration goes a long way. I knew almost immediately that I couldn’t continue with my regular skin care regimen. Although it is really hot in Louisiana, Texas has a different kind of heat and the water here is hard. After cleansing my face and body I started experiencing extremely dry skin. My skin/body has never needed moisture like it does now.

Tina and I chatted some more about her favorites and just how she customized her routine with her personal expertise as a former practicing Esthetician! She really diversifies her skin care to balance her skin. Her go to’s are Aromatic Emulsion after cleansing to add moisture and balance, in the evening she nourishes with alternating Watermelon Seed Oil , Prickly Pear Oil , and Hemp Seed (think brightening, balancing, hydrating, and more!) depending on what her skin is telling her! She also loves the Aroma Peel for gentle & effective exfoliation!

My favorite Source Vital body products are Serene and Stress Relief Bath and Body Oils. They add moisture to my skin and the aromas are amazing while relaxing in a warm bath. In the shower, I apply them directly to my skin. My skin loves all of SV’s bath and body oils .

Is there a common ailment you’re used to seeing in your guests & how do you treat it?!

(Melting technique… booking now !!)

I feel like you really practice what you preach with taking care of yourself, how do you prioritize self care & what does that look like for you?

I TRULY prioritize self care. What that looks like for me is waking up and setting my intentions for the day. I pray/meditate over my life, my hands, and my body. I speak peace and wellness into the atmosphere because I believe it will be returned to me. I have a daily morning ritual that I stick to no matter what and that consists of my skin care regimen, making sure water infused with fresh lemon and lime is the first thing to enter my body for the day, having breakfast/brunch incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables, having hot tea using fresh ingredients like ginger root, cinnamon sticks, hibiscus flowers, Irish sea moss, and raw honey, and taking a heaping spoon of organic elderberry syrup. Everything I do has tremendous health benefits and this is only the beginning of how I prioritize self care in my life. I love quiet time and reading and I have regular manicures and pedicures. I’m also a regular guest at our spa. I practice what I preach to my guests about getting regular massages and facials and the benefits of doing so. I’m a constant giver just like most of my guests and taking some time out for ME is a must. I am alllll about Self Love and Self Care.

(Can y’all feel her passion?! It’s palpable!)

You are an avid cook at home, what is your favorite dish?!

I feel like this is such a great insight into Tina’s world. Self care is such a priority for her and I feel like she really hit the nail on the description… “I’m a constant giver just like most of my guests and taking some time out for ME is a must.” In the spa world, and beyond, as parents, as employees, friends and more, we are always in “give” mode, and to properly refill our soul is so important. I don’t know about y’all, but I am ready to enjoy some seafood and some amazing Louisiana style dishes!

Some exciting news about those Source Vitál Bath and Body Oils Tina mentioned… they are on SALE soon! So are all of our Source Vitál Apothecary products ! September 3rd & 4th of 2020 be sure to stock up on your favorites or try something new! We’re ready to guide you on whatever your needs are! We look forward to seeing y’all at the spa soon or hearing from you at 713.622.7722!

With joy,

Annie

Annie is a native Houstonian, who pours her heart into her passions. With nearly 10 years of experience, Annie is skilled in advanced facials, facial massage, all body waxing, and body treatments. She is extremely passionate about holistic practices and products. Her love for Sanctuary Spa has never faded! She cares deeply about her clients and their entire experience. Annie loves living her life to the fullest with her family.

Brow Goals, Tips from Courtney

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 03:12:00 GMT

I, Annie, was excited to team up with our in house Brow Goddess herself, Courtney, to get her perspective on all things brows & JKC. With the quarantine still in effect for many, & brow goals waiting to happen, let’s get the flowing with Court! Quick background about you, how did you get to become …

At Home Facial

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 20:13:00 GMT

Create Your Spa Day at Home

We’re big believers in the importance of self-care by going to the Spa ;). It’s especially important to follow through at home. Having a skincare routine at home will ensure that you’re taking good care of your skin, and that your facial you received is maintained. It also allows you to take a few minutes to yourself to decompress after a long day, or of course if you’re getting ready for the day. The products that our estheticians use are available for purchase– which makes it so much easier to recreate your facial at home. I personally have oily skin, so finding that perfect skincare routine has definitely been a challenge. After many, many years of trial and error, I think I’m finally onto something! To all of my oily-skinned ladies (and guys,) here are a few of my skincare steps that have benefited my skin and also my well being.

Starting with cleansing your skin, double cleansing is crucial to rid the dirt and oils on your face, leaving you a fresh canvas to work with, especially while we’re wearing our masks as it makes it easy for dirt to get trapped. If I happen to be wearing makeup, using Source Vital Micellar Cleansing Water is a good first step to prep my face for my cleanser. My personal favorite cleanser is the Rhonda Allison Skin Brightening Cleanser . While my “teen” acne has diminished, my dark spots (hyperpigmentation) from past acne hasn’t. This cleanser is great for that– it brightens your skin while smelling amazing. This cleanser has daisy flower extract. It’s a good choice for the summertime too, considering we’re always in the sun. If you have drier skin, add the Skin Brightening Cleanser into your routine 2-3 nights a week and increase from there based on how your skin responds.

My favorite serum of the moment is the Source Vital Prickly Pear Oil . I had no idea that to control your oily skin, you have to actually use products that contain oils. Who would’ve thought? Thankfully, I have our talented estheticians to guide my skincare regimen and I’m here to share all of the fun stuff I learn with you! For example, this Prickly Pear Oil is high in Omega-6 and Omega-9 fatty acids which help detoxify and clean my pores. Also packed with antioxidants and Vitamin E! After I apply this botanical oil at night, I wake up with almost no excess oil on my face. You learn a lot from working at a spa and that tidbit was most definitely my holy grail.

I hope this gives you a little inspiration to give yourself some much needed time and care, wherever you are. Taking the time to use each product with intention makes your skincare routine something enjoyable for you every time. If you’re not exactly sure on what products to use, or even what skin type you have, visit with one of our estheticians at Sanctuary Spa so they can guide you in the right direction. Every facial begins with a skin consultation where you can share your thoughts and concerns. The esthetician will choose the best products for you and share at the end of your facial their thoughts and guidance.

With gratitude,

Sydney

Helpful Tips to Stay Balanced During COVID-19 Times

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 19:19:00 GMT

In these challenging times, Sanctuary Spa’s Licensed Massage Therapist Eric would like to share a few tips to help us all through these challenging times:

Staying mentally stable.

We must create a new norm in these uncertain times!

Understand that there is only so much that we can control. Release those things that we can’t. This issue is global, affecting us all – absolutely no one is exempt. In sharing this coronavirus pandemic we are connected so don’t allow your mind to venture into that desolate place. Whatever spiritual faith you may practice or believe in rededicate yourself to it! Belief is a power tool in maintaining your peace of mind and positivity. Meditate, pray and read the Bible – or whatever spiritual books or materials that provide a sense of calm and balance in your spiritual body.

Disconnect in order to reconnect.

Exercise!

Make time to exercise! Exercise releases stress, keeps your mind focused, body strong, and immune system working at 100 percent. All of the things we need right now. Maybe a challenge for some people if your favorite gym isn’t open, but just walking everyday and/or implementing simple calisthenics and stretching routine are things that you can do indoors with no equipment. Keeping a strong body will help keep a strong mind and vice versa!

Diet.

It’s very easy right now to gain unwanted weight with all the stationary time we have on our hands these days. So, make smart and healthy choices in buying food and snacks. Try not to overindulge, this will only add to weakening your immune system by consuming excessive amounts of sugar and salty foods. Stay hydrated and focus on protein greens and fiber rich foods to keep your body lean and digestion system working optimally. Don’t deprive yourself though, make room for the occasional indulgence while focusing on optimum health.

Finally Laughter!

It’s been proven that laughter actually strengthens the immune system and creates healthy hormones like endorphins. Make time on purpose to laugh. Watch comedies and create and play games with your family or friends that create the opportunity to have those gut busting laugh attacks. Use those devices we all have in some shape or form (phones, smart tvs, laptops etc) for this comedic outlet by reaching out to connect and laugh!

Eric is one of Sanctuary Spa’s valued Licensed Massage Therapists. Having been licensed massage therapist since 2009, Eric has studied the body extensively and has worked with all kinds of guests with varying lifestyles and concerns. When he’s not doing massage, he enjoys writing poetry, working out, listening to great music, watching movies, cooking and serving God. In these difficult times, he has focused on this list to stay upbeat and aware.

Sanctuary Spa Re-Opening Sanitation and Hygiene Standards

Fri, 15 May 2020 08:08:00 GMT

Sanctuary Spa is now offering facials, waxing, massage, nano brow, nano lip and yoni steam services in addition to selling retail products online for curbside pickup or shipping. We are not offering hydrotherapy services at this time.

Sanctuary Spa consistently maintains a high standard of cleanliness and sanitation. Given the current COV-ID 19 pandemic, we have reevaluated every aspect of sanitation to ensure the safety of our team and guests.

Below covers our requirements and guidance for effectively sanitizing and disinfecting our spa and interactions between employees and guests to reduce the spread of communicable diseases, as much as possible. All employees coming back to work have signed off on the below commitments.

Materials and Safety Precautions

All of these items are available at the spa:

Prior to Reopening

We have systematically and thoroughly deep cleaned every inch of the spa using soap and hospital grade disinfectants. We have laundered all linens. We have fully stocked the spa with the above items.

We have trained and educated all of our employees on new sanitation standards, guest interactions, and safety materials.

After Reopening

We have implemented the following measures to ensure we continue to uphold our high level of sanitation while also incorporating extra measures as per guidance from local, state and national regulatory and medical bodies.

Although we have a warm culture and are used to greetings and farewells filled with hugs, handshakes and touch, we will require non-contact methods going forward.

We appreciate our guests’ cooperation as we make the following adjustments:

Employees

Guests

Guide to Washing Hands

Lobby, Retail Space, Relaxation Lounge, Treatment Rooms and Breakroom Areas

Surfaces

Linens

We look forward to offering you services in the safest way possible. We appreciate your complete cooperation with all of the rules above. Our team commits to you that we will adhere to all of the steps above.

Sanctuary Spa Temporarily Closed – How You Can Help

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 12:45:00 GMT

We hope all of you, our guests, are doing well. We are all experiencing this challenging, unknown time, but we are all in it together. We have faith in our community to make our way through and past this time, coming out stronger on the other side.

We encourage you to continue supporting small and local businesses, if you have the means.

A few options for you to help our spa:

1. Schedule your services for after April 4th

Our team is ready and excited to provide amazing services. To lift spirits and have plenty to look forward to, we’d love to see a full schedule for when we are able to open again. At this time, we are filling the schedule starting April 4th. We will be in heavy communication with all of our guests, especially as service dates are approaching. If either of us need to make adjustments to the schedule date and time, we’ll be happy to help.

2. Buy gift certificates or products

Whether you are gifting yourself by prepaying for your upcoming services or gifting a loved one who needs some TLC after this experience or has a special occasion coming up, please consider purchasing gift cards: https://experiencesanctuaryspa.millenniumegift.com/.

You can also schedule your services online: https://booking.experiencesanctuaryspa.com/onlinebooking2/#/. While we may not know when we’ll truly be able to open, it lifts our hearts to see our guests signed up for services. If you have an idea of your “normal” availability and can commit to a service, please schedule now. We’ll communicate with you several days before the appointment. If you have any changes to your schedule, please just let us know as soon as you know.

Another option, for as long as we can support, please consider emailing or calling us to place an order for products. We can ship your products via USPS or provide curbside pick up for your order. Your esthetician or massage therapist will receive commission on your purchases. Looking to support, but haven’t been to the spa before? Any other commissions will go to our lovely guest care team.

Have questions about which products to get? Send your questions in your email and we’ll provide you feedback and product recommendations from our talented therapists.

3. Contribute to our Employee Fund

Our spa is so special because of the amazing people that work here. Each and everyone of them truly cares about our guests and each other. The love we have been sharing as we all work through comprehending this period of time has been heartwarming. We are all truly uplifted by making every guest we interact with happier after their time with us. All of us would love to still be making great memories and experiences for y’all. As we are unable to do that safely at this time, if you’d like to continue to support our employees please consider contributing directly to our employee fund.

Simply email owners@besanctuary.com with the following information:

If you don’t remember the names of the Sanctuary Spa employees you have seen, we can look the info up in our system to help.

We are all in this together. If you are part of a group raising funds for a local non-profit, please email me at sabrina@besanctuary.com if you would like a donation. Simply include your cause, any documentation or website info that you may have, and the dates for the fundraiser. I will get back to you as quickly as I can.

Be healthy, be well,

Sabrina

Sanctuary Spa: Coronavirus COVID-19 Response

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 19:57:00 GMT

The health and wellness of our guests and team is always our top priority at Sanctuary Spa. Our daily sanitation practices are in place to ensure safety with or without the threat of a virus. However, in the upcoming days and weeks we intend to take extra measures to ensure a safe environment and wanted to provide an update on all we plan to do. Specific to the virus, we are following the World Health Organization and CDC for updates and directives, we urge you to do the same.

We appreciate if you have felt ill within the past 14 days or been in contact with someone who hasn’t been well, that you reschedule for a later date. For the safety of our other guests and our spa team, we ask that if you have traveled in the 14 days prior to your upcoming appointment or come in contact with someone who has traveled in the past 14 days, that you also consider reschedule for a later date.

Our therapists work on commissions. We appreciate your consideration in letting us know as quickly as possible whether you will be able to make your appointment so they can plan their day best. We will be waiving cancellation fees, as appropriate.

Practicing sanitation and safety is part of what we do daily, including:

We also understand that it can be frustrating if you receive a call from us to reschedule because one of our therapists is suddenly out sick. If this happens to you, we will do everything we can to get you rescheduled at a time that is convenient for you and we appreciate your flexibility and understanding during this time.

Summer Spa-cation!

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 05:21:00 GMT

A common topic of conversation as we come upon and dip into summertime is vacation, vacation, vacation. Where are you going? When are you going? How are you going? All of the things vacation! Even if you don’t have children, summertime just seems like a natural time to take a break. But what happens if you don’t have time to get away? Whether work, the kid’s schedules, or out of town visitors are keeping you from leaving Houston this summer, Sanctuary Spa has some great options for a spa-cation.

Ultimate Spa-cation
Spa-cation Itinerary : 45 minute Dead Sea Salt Scrub , 90 minute Sanctuary Signature Massage , 60 minute Brea’s Signature Restorative Facial or Men’s Debonair Facial

Detox Kickstart
Spa-cation Itinerary : Seaweed Wrap , Infusion Tub , 45 minute Sanctuary Signature Massage plus 4 5 minute G5 Cellulite Therapy

New Moon, New Beginnings
Spa-cation Itinerary : 90 minute Sanctuary Signature Massage & Minkyti Facial

Of course, a spa-cation is also great to get ready for your vacation or to bring friends visiting you! Any reason to get some self-care time in works!

Vacay Recovery
Spa-cation Itinerary : Infusion Tub , 60 minute Sanctuary Signature Massage & 60 minute Microdermabrasion Facial

Whatever your reason or your goals, Sanctuary Spa is ready to help you plan your self-care spa-cation to make the most of your summertime in Houston! Call us today at 713-622-7722 to plan your spa-cation!

Celebrating our Founder, Brea Gratia

Sat, 23 Mar 2019 19:04:00 GMT

What has inspired you most throughout your career?

My imagination! And, the clients! Especially clients who traveled frequently. When they would come in for facials, they would tell me of services they had while traveling across our country and out of the country. My imagination saw something more than what they experienced. I would create services based on something I imagined. In my mind’s eye I could see and feel my version of the service all the way through to the end. There are many services I created that I never experienced. I guess you could say I’m a dreamer. Sometimes inspiration would come from the most unusual experiences like having a Moroccan restaurant wash my hands by pouring rose water over them before dining with my fingers. From that experience I created the Moroccan foot wash during a facial.

What was it like getting started in skincare in a world without smartphones, apps, and instant social media hype?

In some ways, it was easier. If you were able to find the right advertising venue combined with excellent services, word of mouth would soon be the driving force. Nowadays, any and all competitors have the same edge with phones and social media. Getting started in 1980 for me required a night job as a cocktail waitress to support my new skin care practice by day. It took about two years before I could let go of the night job.

You are the founder of Sanctuary, how has that legacy impacted you?

It gave me the opportunity to learn so much more than basic esthetics. I studied the body, hydrotherapy, massage, fitness, health, aromatherapy, etc. I learned about designing websites, designing spa layouts and flow. I had the opportunity to teach and really dig deep into my thoughts to share what I felt was important for our client/guest. I learned about employee relationships, about being a great “boss”, leader and co-worker. I feel it has given me more credibility than my current competitors. It gave me a more holistic approach to my personal life. It gave me opportunities to make mistakes, crash & burn, be judged, suffer humiliation, be forgiven then journey my way to the top again. Riding that wave only makes one stronger if you keep your eyes open and trust in your own strengths. For me, rewards have always been there when I keep on keeping on!

What is your biggest advice for individuals new to Esthetics, Massage, or this industry in general?

Be ethical, be on time, study “outside the box”, follow your inner voice, be daring, believe in yourself, follow a course of logic, ask for help if needed, pay attention, travel and be inspired!

This quote has just appeared in my life and it speaks to me so much because I think it is how I’ve lived the majority of my life. “Scare yourself with excitement over your future!”

What has set you apart in the industry?

Being fearless, I think. I never followed the crowds thinking. If my work was so different from the norm, I just continued to work quietly, not bragging about my difference. My clients set me apart through their recognition as offering something special and important. Clients continue to tell me they’ve traveled the world over and never experienced work like what I do.

What is your absolute favorite treatment?

For forty-plus years it has been the Restorative Facial.

How about your favorite product?

Algae Deep Cleanse. It is special during a facial because I use my most invigorating technique followed by hot towels. To experience that combination is phenomenal – I love it.

What does your home care/ self care routine look like today?

I have never missed a night of washing my face before bed since I was 14. I then apply an aromatic serum. Morning routine includes some type of exfoliation like a scrub or mild chemical peel, followed by aromatic serum of some type (I use a variety of serums), then moisture/protection.

You literally are always glowing, what do you attribute your amazing appearance to?

Great skin care routine, positive attitude, great sleep, happy & loving relationship with a very special man and my daughters, and most importantly a fabulous family (my girls, David and all my adopted/extended relatives).

You’ve raised two badass twin entrepreneurs, what do you attribute that sense of empowerment and entrepreneurship to?

Love! I love my girls so much. I spent time with them, paid attention to them, never gave up on them and went to work every day. They came to work with me often. They worked for me many times in various capacities. I don’t really know, perhaps it’s just genetics at work here. I believe in them and they consequently believe in themselves.

We know you relocated to Asheville NC, what is life like for you up there?

Asheville was a long time coming for me. It was a calling to be in an environment that fed my soul. The mountains, the forest, the nature, the wildlife, the seasons, the people…. I love the country folk, the stories they tell, the history of the area…. I love that many people who live here chose to live here – it is a very happy place. Black bears walk across our yard as do deer, raccoons, possums, wild turkey, coyotes, foxes, and rabbits. The pace for me now is so much slower. I enjoy every day including the sunny days, the rain, the days when we are in the clouds (fog), the 14-inch snowfall, the incredible sunsets, the average summer temperature of about 82 degrees, going for a strenuous hike or just lazing around the house with all the doors and windows open. It feels safe here, too. We have chickens and get fresh eggs daily. A little kitten showed up one day so now we have a cat. I’m not a cat person, but it has been fun having her. She walks with me every morning to feed the chickens. Haha, life is so different here. We sleep with the windows open about 320 days of the year. The singing birds wake me in the morning. Life is great!

Cheers to 35 Years with Guest Appreciation Week!

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 16:55:00 GMT

Sanctuary Spa is celebrating 35 years of business this month, and we want to share this special occasion with YOU as our honored guest! From March 17th – March 23rd join us at the spa for special offers, bonus prizes, and our stellar spa services!

Sunday, March 17 ^th : Save 35% on Sabrina’s favorite services! March 17th also happens to be my birthday. Choose from one my favorite services and save 35% as my gift to you! Just mention the code: SABSFAVS

Monday, March 18 ^th : Pick your own Source Vitál essential oil roll on! Choose your favorite aromatherapy blend as a token of our appreciation.

Tuesday, March 19 ^th : Create your own succulent! Every guest can take home a pretty plant using materials provided by Sanctuary Spa.

Wednesday, March 20 ^th : Enjoy 35% savings on all products. That’s one percent for every year we’ve been in business!

Thursday, March 21st: Pick your prize! Every visitor can draw from great prizes we have planned, ranging from discounts, to free products and services!

Friday, March 22nd: Amazing savings on series purchases. Buy 7 services for the price of 5!

Saturday, March 23rd : Enjoy 15% off services all 60+ minute services! Just mention code: BONUS15

Did we mention there will be refreshments, too? Choose from hot tea, water, or Prosecco to enjoy with the baked goods we’ll have prepared! Drink and eat while you browse our amazing offers, and don’t forget to snap a pic in front of our flower wall!

We’d love to see you soon, so stop by and experience this special week with us. We are so grateful to have you!

Be happy & healthy,

Sabrina

*Daily offers are only valid for the specified date as listed, and all services must be booked or scheduled on that day to redeem.

Celebrating the Power of Women All Month Long at Sanctuary Spa!

Tue, 05 Mar 2019 23:44:00 GMT

March is officially known as Women’s History Month — dedicated to recognizing the success of women and their incredible contributions to society. At Sanctuary Spa, we believe women should feel empowered to lift each other up and celebrate ever day, not just the big wins, but also the small acts of courage that help define and shape our gender. In honor of this and our 35th anniversary coming up, we’d also like to announce that 3% of our sales in the month of March will be donated to Dress for Success Houston.

For the month of March, we are encouraging others to share their stories. If there is an inspiring lady in your life that deserves special acknowledgement and recognition, we want to hear about it, even if that lady is YOU! We’ll be showcasing these stories on our blog and social media throughout the month. Stay tuned for updates and keep checking back for more!

To inspire you, here are some of the fabulous females of Sanctuary Spa and what makes them so special – as told by their teammates!

Leadership Team

“I have known Courtney for many years now and our lives have crossed paths in so many ways, it reminds that we are meant to be connect no matter what! Her perseverance and dedication is something that constantly inspires and amazes me. I believe she is truly unstoppable and her passions and career are beginning to blossom into such an unreal magnitude!” – Annie

“Whew, what a woman! Sabrina is such a well rounded human… humble, confident, inspiring, relatable, motivating, and hands down the hardest working person I know. She does it all with grace and leads by an example that has everyone in her path wanting to aspire to.” – Annie

“She is strong, wise, open and incredibly genuine and generous. Knowing a woman like Sabrina and being blessed enough to work for her makes me want to make her proud and that she always feels appreciated for all she is. Thank You Sabrina!” – Jessica

“Annie’s ability to always see the good and be such a shining light is beautiful!”- Sabrina

“Annie is absolutely called to this profession and grows her natural ability of care and love in work and outside work, each new experience makes her stronger and brings her to an entirely new level. Knowing and watching her for 4 years now, I’ve seen what real leadership can create with the right support and same dream! She is the prime example of a professional and genuinely compassionate guest experience that comes from the heart.” – Jessica

Estheticians and Massage Therapists

“Jill is such a dedicated and committed woman. She is constantly researching, studying, and has such a thirst for education and knowledge that blows my mind!!” – Annie

“Jill thrives off of learning and growing her skillset and it fuels my passion to continue being the best esthetician i can be!” – Courtney

“Kim M. is one of the most gentle souls I have ever met, poised and graceful. I am so inspired by her peaceful aura!” – Annie

“What i know about beautiful Kim M. is she is incredibly kind, hardworking and has an energy of gold. She is someone I hope to work alongside with for many years to come.” – Courtney

“Tina’s peaceful presence and inviting smile allows anyone to relax around her. She appreciates each teammembers talents and expertise and loves to engage about any and all things massage and work!” – Jessica

“Yolanda is keen on progress and constantly challenges herself in this profession. Humble and quiet, she’s a book of knowledge that I find myself constantly going to after each session she works on me! She gives this profession her all and inspires me tremendously as a therapist.” – Jessica

“Kristen is a ball of sunshine and positivity each time you embrace her, always smiling or cracking an effortless joke or impression! She makes everything she does FUN! She’s steps in and steps up, the natural leader who draws everyone in. She makes you want to linger around longer even after a work shift is over! She offers great advice for self care and practices what she preaches. ” – Jessica

“Jessica has never met a stranger and it’s that life within Jess that inspires me to live passionately in everything! I’m so grateful for the energy and warmth that Jess brings to the spa, to the world, and to others.” – Annie

“Lauren’s enthusiasm for all things massage is contagious! She cares for her guests and is dedicated to giving them a massage that will deliver relaxation and relief.” – Sabrina

Guest Care

“Amanda is an extremely compassionate woman who will always lend a hand to someone who needs it. She is welcoming and inviting and will give everyone a belly laugh that they need the most. She lights up a room and encourages others to light it up to.” – Annie

“Kim B. is a passionate, confident, compassionate woman. She is encouraging and spreads light everywhere she walks!” – Annie

“Kim B. has a heart of gold and she’s irreplaceable!” – Jessica

“Sophia is kind and thoughtful in everything she does, every time I’m around her it reminds me to pause and reflect with intention!” – Annie

“Lisa has such a warm and open heart, she sincerely cares for each guest walking through our doors and will ensure they have a fulfilling experience here.” – Sabrina

“Estela has been a solid part of Sanctuary since the beginning. I’ve had the privilege of working with her for over 4 years and to this day- she shows up with aspiring work ethic. She is an incredibly hard worker and she continues to amaze me.”

“I admire Regina’s confidence and direct energy, it is refreshing and still allows me to feel close and heard to her. I literally love being around her and her genuine authentic self.” – Annie

“Isabel is such a blooming flower at this stage of her life. starting esthetic school and rocking guest care have brought confidence and passion to her daily energy that remind me to keep seeking that level of inspiration.” – Annie

“Teresa is such a quick learner and so focused on being better at every aspect of guest care, she will soon be a Sanctuary Spa expert!” – Sabrina

Kim Bady’s Journey to the Houston Marathon

Wed, 16 Jan 2019 19:14:00 GMT

The Chevron Houston Marathon is a big deal! Since 1972, this run has been inspiring Houstonians to take on new challenges and bring awareness to causes that matter to them. I admire all of the great athletes (33,000 of them!) that train for months leading up to the marathon to finish this great race.

This year, our very own Kim Bady has trained extensively to participate in the 2019 Chevron Houston Half Marathon. Not only is she running, but she’s running for a reason. The Run for a Reason Charity Program works with 64 nonprofit organizations. Last year, they raised over $1.8M! We are so proud of her. I sat down with Kim to ask her a few questions about her journey and understand which charity she is supporting .

1) Let’s start with the basics. Are you a runner?

I don’t consider myself as a runner, other than running track for 1 season in high school many moons ago. I really don’t call what Ido running. It’s more like jogging with an occasional speedy power walk to catch my breath. Nonetheless, I realize I’m pushing my body more and more each time I hit the 3-mile trail at memorial park, where I’m inspired by the runners of all ages, shapes, and sizes.

2) So, what made you decide to run the marathon?
I’m turning 45 years young soon, and I’ve always had a desire to challenge myself by participating in a half marathon and eventually triathlons.

3) What is your training program?

My training program started off as jogging 3 miles, 3 times a week. I’m starting to increase that the closer it gets to January. Now my goal is to jog 6 miles, 3 times a week. I also include weight training a couple of days a week. Before the half marathon, I plan to increase the distance to be sure I’m ready to run the half marathon–13 miles. My training is challenging for me but may not be very challenging for experienced athletes. My desire is to finish with a sense of accomplishment, not to beat a record time.

4) Any changes to your self-care routine to account for your changes in your activity?

I’ve definitely had to increase my self-care routine. I find myself stretching first thing in the morning and periodically throughout the day to prevent stiffness. When I do get stiff or have pains, I soak in Source Vital’s analgesic bath salts and rub analgesic bath and body oil on my aching joints. Scheduling massage and body treatments at Sanctuary Spa also helps work out the knots and pain in my glutes, hips, and lower back. After one of these treatments, I’m ready to get back out there on the track!

5) What charity did you select and why?

I’m raising funds for Open Door Mission , an organization that supports men and women in recovery. I chose this charity to honor my father’s memory. He was a recovered addict who started a program that housed and treated men and women who were fighting a similar battle. At his funeral, so many spoke about how he helped them and never gave up on them. This gives me the motivation and will be my focus to help me reach my goal of completing the half marathon.

***

The marathon is right around the corner! So excited to have seen Kim’s progress these past few months and even more excited to have our Sanctuary team cheer her across the finish line! We look forward to helping y’all prepare for the race or recover after you finish. In honor of her and all of your hard work, we’re offering a 30% discount on services for Marathon runners. Simply book your service this week or next. When you’re checking out, share your bib or your email registration confirmation.

Cheers to a great race and good luck!

Sanctuary Spa’s Commitment to You in the New Year

Fri, 28 Dec 2018 20:36:00 GMT

Another year has passed, and as 2018 comes to close, we encourage you to reflect on lessons learned and your successes. Look back on the rewarding experiences and moments of incredible growth you encountered. The upcoming year is your chance to start fresh and renew your commitment to yourself – mind, body, and spirit. Self-care is at the center of your resolutions, and Sanctuary Spa is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.

For a longtime, I refused to participate in the entire “New Year’s Resolution” game. I viewed it as a way to focus on all the things I did bad that led to creating all of these unachievable goals that I ended up breaking a month into the year and furthermore, didn’t even glance at for the rest of the year! In recent years though, I have circled back around to participating in setting these kinds of goals again, understanding that I want to be accountable to myself and always focus on being better today than I was yesterday.

This year, I want to embrace New Year’s Resolutions and further, partner with you, our guests, and my team for that level of positive accountability. I plan to celebrate my small victories and create achievable, yet challenging goals to meet throughout the year. The Sanctuary Spa team thanks you for sharing your goals, committing to yourself – mind, body and spirit, and most importantly loving and caring for yourself. Thank you to all of our guests who shared their resolutions with us! We feel truly inspired by the commitments you’ve made to yourselves this year, and can’t wait to help you achieve your goals.

Four of these resolutions were randomly selected as winners of our New Year’s Resolution sweepstakes. Congratulations to:

Cynthia S. who vows to ask for help, to hold others accountable for their share, and to actually reserve time each week for her to relax and recharge.

Annabella B. who resolves to dedicate time to herself. This means investing in my health and wellness. Trying to set time to be more mindful as well as getting massages to help align her energies.

Jennifer W. who commits to 1) Healthier eating and 2) Monthly stress reduction in 2019.

Roberta B. who pledges: 1) To practice wellness and have a healthy relationship with her body. 2) To open her heart to love and possibilities and let go of any attachment to the outcome. 3) To choose with no regrets. 4) To be bold, be audacious and stretch herself. And finally, the words that represent how she will live her best year ever in 2019 are: gratitude, connection, presence.
Here’s to a happy, inspired, intentional 2019!

Each of these winners will receive one free month of membership to Sanctuary Spa! As a reminder, here are the great benefits to our membership program:

Even better, you can roll over your services two months if you don’t have the opportunity to get in for the month. You can gift a membership service, if you’d like your friends and family to experience the spa. And, there aren’t any cancellation fees or terms. Finally, we’ll call you each month to make sure you’re getting your services time reserved and enjoying your membership. Our goal for our membership program is to partner with you as a way for you to commit to self-care and a healthy lifestyle that you get a ton of value from having.

Now for our sharing time.

My goals for 2019 include: (1) consistent journal entries, whether one line or one page, I want to journal at least 5 times per week to help me be present with my thoughts, family and choices. (2) incorporate one new healthy habit every 2 months, from increasing how much water I drink to adding variety to my exercise routine and eating better. These two goals I feel like I will set a great foundation for me to achieve a lot of other positives in my life!

Amanda , our lovely Guest Care Associate, has 4 goals: (1) continue to write poetry (daily) (2) read 1 book a month (3) Practice the second agreement (from the four agreements, daily) Don’t Take Anything Personally (4) drink a gallon of h2o daily

Annie , our talented Licensed Senior Esthetician & Massage Therapist, has more of a mantra:

‘Pray to Thrive

Eat to Nourish

Live to Inspire

Love to Bloom

Move to Flourish’

What it means to her, is that every action she can/will take, has a bigger purpose. She wants to remember that and instill it in her daily practice so that she can spread and share this amazing, joyous, truthful feeling she’s working to create internally.

Evan , our awesome Licensed Junior Esthetician, is looking to communicate more with loved ones; practice yoga 3 days a week instead ofjust 2; and focus on enhancing relationships with guests .

Isabel , our caring Senior Guest Care Associate, is going to focus on being mentally healthy and finding a work out routine or exercise program she enjoys, or at least that she’ll do consistently, ha!

Jill , our dedicated Esthetician, is eager to continue to refine her skills and knowledge to provide her guests with the best services to all of her guests.

Keiara , our amazing Licensed Senior Massage Therapist, is looking to be more present for her family and friends, begin a weekly yoga regimen, meditate daily, watch less YouTube and start a meetup group for Mommies.

Kim , our thoughtful Well Woman Holistic Health Coach, has several goals for 2019 too. (1) Get back to writing her morning pages daily, (journaling 3 pages a day to connect to her creative expression and to gain more clarity). (2) Visit a national or state park each quarter (3) Incorporate more toning exercises weekly for a more fit me in 2019.

Regina , our mindful Senior Guest Care Associate, has two goals. Going on a Social Media Diet (seriously!). She is looking to lessen her screen scrolling time to engage more IRL (in real life). Also, she’d like to take a public speaking class.

R udy , our fantastic Licensed Senior Massage Therapist, would like to as Michael Jackson says “start with the man in the mirror”. As a therapist, he dedicates his time at the spa to those that have found time for themselves. So he plans on finding time to improve on his health, so he can start a family with his wife soon.

Courtney, our brilliant brow artist, covers all the bases with her 2019 resolutions!

And finally, thank you for an extraordinary 2018. Your Sanctuary Spa team is grateful for the opportunity to help you feel your best. We experienced many milestones and moments that we are proud of and look forward to another year as a team of learning, growing, and giving amazing services to all of you.

The Many Reasons Sanctuary Spa is Thankful

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 20:20:00 GMT

November is a wonderful month to take pause, reflect on our lives and give thanks! At Sanctuary Spa we are thankful for a tremendous amount. Our family has a tradition I know a lot of families have for Thanksgiving, before eating our meal we go around the table and each person says what they are thankful for. We’d love to share some of what our spa family is thankful for this holiday season!

From our sweet Licensed Esthetician Latonya: I’m thankful for my two sons, my family, my friends and me having the opportunity to be apart of such a great motivating awesome team! I’m so thankful for each and every day I’m able to wake up and follow my dreams!

We thank you so much for all of your support. We are grateful for each and everyone of you!
Your Sanctuary Spa Team

Sanctuary Spa Invites You to Guest Appreciation Week!

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 22:13:00 GMT

In this month of Thanksgiving, we want to thank those who mean the most to us, you, our guests. As a token of our appreciation, we’d like to invite you to the spa on November 11 ^th through the 17 ^th for special offers, great giveaways, and our stellar spa services!

Enjoy the final week before the Holiday season gets hectic and relax with us. Each day we will be saying “thank you” in our own little way, so check out what’s in store for this amazing event!

Did we mention there will be refreshments, too? Choose from hot tea, water, or prosecco to enjoy with the baked goods we’ll have prepared! Drink and eat while you browse our amazing offers, whether for early holiday shopping or as a gift for you.

We’d love to see you soon, so stop by and experience this special week with us. We are so grateful to have you!

Be happy & healthy,

Sabrina

*Daily offers are only valid for the specified date as listed, and all services must be booked or scheduled on that day to redeem.

4 Great Reasons to Fall in Love with Sanctuary Spa

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 15:45:00 GMT

Fall conjures up pumpkins, beautiful reds and golds in nature, and cool weather. Well, much of that is more in theory than reality. What we also get with the start of fall is this brief quiet period – after the craziness of summer vacations and school starts and before the madness of holiday visits, parties, and gifts. Sanctuary Spa invites you to capture this moment and Fall in Love with us…with feeling your best…with glowing skin….with beautiful brows…and a relaxed body!

We offer many tips and insider insights on our social media sites, we encourage everyone to sign up to Like our Facebook page ( facebook.com/SanctuarySpaHou ) and Follow our Instagram feed ( instagram.com/sanctuaryspahou/ ). In the month of October 2018, send us a direct message, call or email us to let us know you have started following us and provide your social media username. Once verified, we’ll add $10 spa dollars to your account that can be used over the next year towards any services or products at the spa!

Want a quick sneak peak of what we have to offer at Sanctuary Spa? Keep reading!

Hydrotherapy Wraps & Scrubs

Our Infusion Tub is a great stand-alone service or as preparation for a massage. Picture your personal jacuzzi with soothing jets and hot water. Increase your relief by choosing one of our four elixirs of dead sea salts and essential oils: Relaxation, Lymphatic Drainage/Detox, Sports, or Skin Softening & Hydrating. Learn more here .

Looking for some more action in your service? Our Vichy Shower is an all encompassing experience. We have a comfortable massage table in the room where you’ll lay as a our Vichy shower, a row of 6 shower heads, rains on your body. Fall is a wonderful time to slough off the old and reveal shiny, glowing skin, and our scrubs offer that renewing exfoliation . We also perform our wrap services in this room. Wraps are a great service to hydrate and rejuvenate your skin, as well as improve your metabolism. Our wraps offer a meditative aspect too, so you can truly be mindful about your time and commitment to yourself and your health.

Facials and Skincare

Sanctuary Spa offers the best facials using natural products. We understand everyone’s skin is unique, so we customize our services to exactly what is concerning you about your skin today. We offer an in depth guest consultation so that you have the opportunity to express to your esthetician exactly what you’re looking for, whether it’s just a relaxing spa facial or addressing specific concerns related to acne, rosacea or fine lines. We also have more advanced skincare options including Microcurrent (to re-educate your facial muscles and truly address fine lines), LED (to provide great antibacterial support for acne prone skin or address fine lines), Microdermabrasion (to address hyperpigmentation or dry skin), and our Oxygen Facial (to get you red carpet ready!). Whatever your concern or goal, Sanctuary Spa is here to partner with you and provide amazing services.

Waxing & Electrolysis

We also offer electrolysis , the only FDA approved permanent hair solution. Depending on your hair type and growth cycle, you could get rid of unwanted hair in as few as 4-8 visits. Imagine the savings of no longer having to buy shaving supplies at home and the ease of not worrying about is there stubble on your way out the door!

Massage & Bodywork

Fall in Love with Sanctuary Spa

We invite you to fall in love with Sanctuary Spa this October. Ensure you have taken care of yourself before the days get hectic and short. Like our Facebook page ( facebook.com/SanctuarySpaHou ) and Follow our Instagram feed ( instagram.com/sanctuaryspahou/ ) so that you can see all the amazing services we offer and get to know us more. Even better, tag us on your next visit to the spa for a chance to be featured on our social media profiles!

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Be happy & healthy,

Sabrina

4 Tips for Your Best Bikini Wax

Tue, 25 Sep 2018 18:51:00 GMT

Whether you’re coming in for a bikini wax for the first time or your 50th, we have a few tips for making sure you’re happy with your wax results!

Before getting to those tips, let’s start with some basic definitions. We’re often asked, what is the difference between the 3 types of bikini wax services? So let’s start there.

 Now that we’re on the same page regarding the different waxing options and you’ll be able to book yourself the right service, let’s talk about preparing for your appointment. A little pre-spa prep can help you to get the best results.

1. LENGTH

Most important is to ensure your hair is long enough for the wax to “grab” or adhere to. We suggest at least ¼ inch. If your hair is too short, you’ll either be told you have to reschedule or your specialist will not be able to effectively remove all of the hair in the area being waxed. Trying to wax hair that is too short could also result in ingrown hair and unnecessary irritation to the bikini area.

2. EXFOLIATE

Exfoliate, exfoliate … for good measure, we thought we’d repeat! To prevent ingrown hairs and ensure the wax securely grabs all the hair it can (and NOT your skin!), do your best to exfoliate the skin where you’ll be getting waxed one or two days before your treatment. Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells that can block hair follicles and cause pesky ingrown hairs. They key is to use gentle exfoliating techniques that won’t make the skin more susceptible to sensitivity and irritation.

Stop by the spa to pick up some exfoliating gloves or grab a pair at your next appointment. These “handy” gloves are a helpful tool to allow you to get in a full-body at-home exfoliation during your bath or shower.

Another great option is to use those little round sponges we send home with you after a facial. They’re gentle and the perfect size to prep your bikini area. They’re also complimentary with your facial, so this is a great way to recycle. Both the gloves or the sponges are super easy to maintain. Simply rinse them with a little facial cleanser or shower gel and hang them to dry after every use. To ensure that they are thoroughly clean you can also throw them in your washer every few days or up to one week of use.

If you prefer additional exfoliation, try using one of our body scrubs made with natural ingredients like algae or freshwater silt. They offer amazing skin-smoothing properties while nourishing the skin. It is best to use these types of scrubs at least a full day, if not two days before waxing to protect the skin from further irritation.

3. PAIN MANAGEMENT

Waxing doesn’t have to be an excruciating experience! Many of our guests are nervous about waxing, either because of the things they’ve seen in the movies or because they’ve had bad experiences in the past somewhere else. Your comfort is always our top priority at Sanctuary Spa, unfortunately we can’t promise that there won’t be any pain or discomfort – it is inherent in waxing. However, our estheticians are trained to minimize the pain as much as possible with their wax techniques.

One of the first ways we try to make the experience as easy as possible is by choosing the right wax for your hair and skin type. Our estheticians are skilled at evaluating your skin type, and based on your sensitivity level, the texture of your hair, and the length of your hair, your esthetician will choose the best wax for you. We carry more than three types of wax to make sure that we can match you with a formula that will offer you amazing results. Additionally, our waxes are made with a variety of essential oils to provide antiseptic, anti-bacterial and soothing properties.

To mitigate the pain associated with waxing, one of the most important things YOU can do is to avoid scheduling your appointment the week of your period. Hormone levels and the general discomfort during menstruation can increase the sensitivity of the skin, which can make waxing seem more painful. For best results, it is best to schedule your wax service at least three before the start of your cycle. That said, you can absolutely get a wax while on your period, just be mindful of your comfort level, wear a tampon, and let your esthetician know. It’s completely natural and nothing to be ashamed of!

Our last pain management tip is for those who really have a low tolerance for any type of pain. Ebanel Numb 520 is an easy over the counter lidocaine based numbing cream that can be applied topically to the areas where you are getting waxed 20-minutes before the service. This can provide some relief of your pain, although we can’t promise to remove it entirely. If you are using this cream be mindful to apply it to external areas only!

4. SOOTHE

After waxing skin can have a slight burning sensation and become pink and sensitive. First Aid Oil is our solution to soothe your pain and calm your skin post-wax. A cure-all for our team members (and our kids) – bug bites, scrapes, and cuts all heal more quickly for us with a few drops of this oil. After a bikini wax, apply it to your inflamed skin and notice how quickly the redness and any lingering discomfort subsides.  Ongoing use in between appointments can also help to loosen any ingrowns.

Additional Care Tips

The hard part is over! Use these last few pointers to care for your skin and enjoy the feeling of confidence that comes with self-care.

Avoid friction to the area for the next 24 hours. This also includes intimacy and exercise. Wearing seamless panties or underwear may give your lady bits room to breathe and recover. Also avoid steam and heat for 24 hours. A cold/mildly warm shower is ideal for soothing the area after your wax.

We hope these tips will help your next bikini wax be a little less painful and a lot more enjoyable. Visit Sanctuary Spa to experience the best waxing services in a lovely spa environment. Maybe even start your appointment with a cool glass of Prosecco or a hot cup of tea, and be sure to spend a few minutes in the heavenly massage chairs in our relaxation lounge.

Call us today (713.622.7722) or reserve your spot online. Mention this blog or the promo code BestWax5 to receive a 5% discount on your first wax at Sanctuary Spa. We’re here to answer any questions you may have, so please give us a call.

Back to School … Back to Spa

Fri, 17 Aug 2018 13:50:00 GMT

August in Texas means 2 things to me → SO MUCH HEAT!! And Back to School! While there isn’t much to do about the heat (except escape it by staying indoors as much as possible or jump in the nearest pool) there is plenty to do to prepare for back to school … like have some back to spa time!!

Whether you’re a parent like me and have been running around all summer focused on which camp your kids are going to or figuring out the next vacation/staycation plans
– OR–
You’re a teacher (or superhero, as I like to a call you!) and have spent the summer either enjoying some classroom free days or tied up in yet another in-service or summer school,
– OR–
You’re a student about to return to the grind of classes and homework … please take this moment NOW and plan some spa time. Think of it as a little self-care escape to tend to your needs!

We have three suggestions for great services to schedule before school starts so you’ll feel refreshed, renewed and ready to take on the world! Even better, these services can work for you – no matter if you only have 45-minutes, 3-hours or somewhere in between available.

We look forward to seeing you soon for your next appointment. Call us today at 713.622.7722 or reserve your spot online . Mention this blog or the promo code Back2School5 to receive a 5% discount on your back to school, back to spa services. We are here to answer any questions you may have, so please give us a call.

Cheers to an amazing start to this semester!

Sabrina

Is Electrolysis Right for Me?

Thu, 26 Apr 2018 08:00:00 GMT

Understanding the Benefits of Electrolysis for Unwanted Hair Removal

We’ll be the first to admit that people can be a little shy about talking about hair removal. Unwanted hair can create self-consciousness that can stop some from engaging in intimate relationships and keep others from expressing themselves. It is a very personal part of our grooming routine and we think it is important to remember it’s something that nearly everyone struggles with. And because many people don’t openly talk about it, most don’t understand all the options available when it comes to hair removal. In fact, most popular ideas of hair removal exist only in silly movie scenes or clichés, such as:

Not only do such images from pop culture give waxing services a bad rap, but they totally ignore the other end of the hair removal scale: electrolysis.

Helping our guests to feel confident and beautiful in their own skin is a goal for all of us at Sanctuary Spa. That’s why we offer electrolysis to our guests. It is safe, effective and the only method approved by the United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for permanent removal of hair, as opposed to temporary hair removal. For most, it will take 3 to 7 visits to permanently remove hair. Our team of experienced technicians are trained to make your experience as pleasant as possible.

What is Electrolysis?

Your esthetician will remove the unwanted hair at the root by using heat from an electric current. Electrolysis can be used to remove hair from nearly every part of your body – your face, back, underarms, breasts, legs, and more.

Want to know more? We thought you would.

How Does Electrolysis Work?

The process itself is simple:

As simple as that sounds, the time of an electrolysis treatment is determined by exactly how much hair you want removed from your body and where on your body that hair is. Some people don’t feel much pain at all with electrolysis. For the rest, we can start the service with a numbing cream to make the process as comfortable as possible. From there, it’s about how long you’re comfortable doing the service. Given hair is growing at different rates, most guests will need to come in multiple times to completely rid an area of hair growth.

The good news, today’s technology allows for more speed and comfort than ever before.

What are the Benefits of Electrolysis?

Simply put – it’s a permanent solution for most. Electrolysis can remove unwanted hair, leaving the guest celebrating the time and convenience of less shaving, waxing, tweezing, or plucking. Electrolysis has the highest success rate for permanent hair removal compared to other hair removal treatments. While it may take a few times to catch the hair in the right growth pattern to eliminate the hair at the follicle, electrolysis is the most effective hair removal type for the widest range of skin and hair types and colors. Over the long run, the process will still be more cost-effective than the costs and hassle of repeated waxing and shaving.

At Sanctuary Spa, you may schedule your electrolysis services based on time. For example, we offer electrolysis sessions in 5-, 15-, 30-, and 60-minute timeframes, which means you decide how much you need and when. Our guests who have sensitive skin enjoy having such a variety of session lengths because it allows them the flexibility to address multiple body parts, if they want, as well as manage their time best. As well, as you progress with your treatments, you’ll experience that you need less time to finish.

For example, if you come in for your first time to address your legs, you may start at a 30-minute session. But as you continue your treatments, you’ll notice that at some point you’ll only need 15 minutes to address the remaining hair and then 5 minutes. Rather than continue to charge the service for your legs, we’re able to adjust the price to fit the service you need.

Why is it Important That Electrolysis Has FDA Approval?

Fans of electrolysis love that the practice has received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration as the only permanent way to have hair removed. It’s nice to know that the treatment you are signing up for is the one with the best and most consistent track record for permanent hair removal.

How Does Electrolysis Work at Sanctuary Spa?

Our skilled estheticians will perform the treatment described above, but we also provide you with an unparalleled day spa experience. Our goal is to put you at ease during your electrolysis treatments so that you receive the maximum benefit from the procedure with the least amount of discomfort.

Our ultimate goal is your happiness with your results.

What Else Should I Know About Electrolysis?

Ready to discover the joys and benefits of electrolysis in your life? Visit Sanctuary Spa today to schedule your treatment or give us a call at 713-622-7722.

3 Skin Care Services Your Body Deserves During the Winter Months

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Care for Your Skin – Even When You’re Bundled Up

One of our favorite parts about winter is breaking out our cozy sweaters and winter accessories. Lush scarves, comfy cable knit, well-worn flannel – layering can be comfy and fashionable!

But while we love the comfort that wintertime brings, all that covering up often means that we neglect the skin and body care routine we use when it’s warm and sunny. This winter, give your skin some extra attention with these three treatments to ensure that it’s glowing and healthy!

LED Light Therapy

Eek! This treatment sounds way more technical and scary than it actually is! LED Light Therapy is a great add-on to your customized facial or an easy way to get results with a quick visit to the spa. Even better, it’s painless! The service basically feels like you’re laying out in the sun – but good for you!

How good? Our LED light system consists of nearly 3,000 individual red, blue, green, and yellow lights. Our skilled estheticians will customize your LED experience to address your specific needs.

In under 30 minutes, you’ll be well on your way to glowing, radiant skin. Plus, there is no downtime – you can come in for the service and go right back to work, running errands, or carpool!

And the cherry on top? The benefits of the service build upon each other. Ideally, you would set aside time on your calendar for a series of treatments – one every other week over the course of 3 months. You’ll see maximum results in a short time, while pocketing the savings for signing up for a package instead of individual treatments.

Even one treatment per year, however, can help deliver big results, as long as it’s coupled with a healthy and consistent skin care regimen.

One final benefit: an appointment for the LED Light Therapy service in the winter can help counteract seasonal affective disorder (SAD). We’ll take all the mood boosters we can get!

Chemical Peel

Skin peels can produce a number of great results, including reduced wrinkles and fine lines, improved texture and tone of skin, along with clearing of blemishes. Chemical peels can also diminish the visibility of scars as well as enhance hydration!

Sanctuary Spa uses products from Source Vital Apothecary, a natural-based skin care line, and Rhonda Allison, a science-based, natural-inspired skin care line. With these two lines, our knowledgeable estheticians can partner with you to create the right peel for your skin care needs. They will apply an acid-and-enzyme solution completely customized for you, ranging from a concentrated blend of pure essential oils like Lemon, Rose Absolute, and Lavender to an Apple Wine Peel (cheers!) or Hibiscus Flower Acid.

I know what you’re thinking. “Does this mean I have to hibernate in a cave for 10 days while my skin falls off?? No! While everyone’s skin reacts differently (and we do see a range of actual skin peeling), most people only experience a moderate amount of peeling and are easily able to go back to their normal routine the next day.

Your esthetician will walk you through your home care once you finish your peel. You really should minimize sun exposure following a peel, so please wear sunscreen, and take advantage of the limited sun light hours during the winter by scheduling your chemical peel today.

We have healing balms and soothing topical balms to reduce any appearance of an inflammation. Even better, because the chemical peel has removed the first layer of skin, the products you use on your skin will be absorbed more effectively!

To maximize the benefits of a chemical peel, we recommend a series of treatments, with your second visit scheduled 4 to 6 weeks after your first.

G5 Cellulite Massage

Now, we hear you asking, “But what about the rest of my body?” The funny thing about being swimwear-ready by May (who are we kidding, by April for us Houstonians) is that you can’t just start in March and hope everything will be OK.

True preparation begins during winter by drinking plenty of water daily, following a healthy diet (understanding holidays don’t count, of course!), and then adding the following must-have service to improve the appearance and smoothness of your skin.

The G5 Massage is deep tissue massage performed by a special machine that produces vertical and horizontal strokes at the same time. The machine applies pressure from both directions, making it very effective at detoxifying the body and stimulating lymphatic drainage. In addition, the G5 massage improves circulation and breaks up fat deposits, reducing the appearance of cellulite.

We then take our G5 massage service to the next level with our custom blend of massage and essential oils.

Bonus! These amazing results are accompanied by the traditional relaxation benefits you expect from a high-quality Sanctuary Spa massage.

While you should notice improved skin texture pretty immediately, the benefit of starting with the G5 massage in winter is that you should be able to complete 3 treatments before Houston starts to feel the heat of summer. The service can be completed in 45 minutes, so it’s optimal for getting in and out while the kids are in school or you are on a lunch break.

Do you have more time? Enhance your G5 massage experience with either of these two excellent treatments!

Maximize Your Spa Time in Winter

So, while we all enjoy breaking out our boots and snuggly sweaters, we should also remember the importance of self-care for our skin during the winter months. With all of the shopping, eating, and travel that occurs during the holidays, Sanctuary Spa offers a convenient retreat whether you have a little over an hour or more than three hours.

As with every skin care routine, consistency is key. By incorporating any (or all!) of these 3 treatments into your routine this winter, you’ll have the radiant skin of your dreams come summer. Set up your next visit online at besanctuary.com/book or call 713- 6222-7722 to speak with our friendly guest care team.

Sanctuary Spa 2017 Holiday Gift Guide: Wellness Gifts for Everyone on Your List

Sun, 10 Dec 2017 23:20:00 GMT

Experiences, not material things, are said to be the key to happiness. Sanctuary Spa can help you give your hard to shop for friends and loved ones an experience they will cherish. From a mini getaway at Sanctuary Spa to products that will care for the mind, body and soul, these gifts are sure to delight anyone on your shopping list.

Still looking for the perfect gifts for your everyone on your list? Use our Gift Guide to find the perfect gifts that also simplify your holiday shopping experience:

Don’t forget the most important person on your list, you! See something you like, it’s ok to give yourself a little something too! That’s what self-care is all about.

Holiday Spa Packages – New This Season!

NEW- Holiday Bliss Package

This spa package takes you on a journey to pure bliss! Personalize this gift for whatever spa service is the best fit – pick a fabulous facial or massage. Either option is the perfect pick-me-up. At $150 it’s a great option for your mom to your BFF.

Spa Package Includes:

NEW- Holiday Retreat Package

The name of this package says it all – this gift is a perfect spa retreat. Enjoy head-to-toe TLC with the best facial you’ve ever had and a fabulous massage. You or your recipient will emerge from this escape feeling completely relaxed and renewed.

Spa Package Includes:

Amazing Gifts and Stocking Stuffers for the Skin, Body & Spirit

Need a few gifts that aren’t quite that generous or looking to enhance the gift packages above? The below gift sets range from $17.95 to $46.50, scroll through to find the perfect fit for everyone on your list that also matches your budget.

Facial Skin Care Gift Sets

These gift sets will give your recipient a healthy, radiant complexion, and they’re made with all-natural ingredients.

Source Vitál Apothecary Holiday Skin Care Gift Set

Care and protect the skin with high quality skin-loving ingredients. This gift set is a great way to start an effective skin care routine or to keep the skin glowing after a spa facial. Plus, Source Vitál is based right here in Houston, so you’ll feel great supporting a local brand. The perfect stocking stuffer – especially for friends or family who love to travel.

Gift Set Includes:

Rhonda Allison Cherry Infusion Trio

Rhonda Allison products are natural-science based skin care line. This “mini facial” lets you take the spa home with you! Use this gift set to give your skin an energy boost. Those beauty mavens on your list will love adding these products to their daily routine.

Gift Set Includes:

Rhonda Allison Winter Rescue System

This system will nourish and hydrate your skin like never before. Perfect for dry skin and protecting all skin types from cold weather, which we really do get from time to time in Houston! Treat your mom or other special women in your life with this little luxury.

Gift Set Includes:

Rhonda Allison Intense Clinical Eye System

Brighten and protect those eyes! This gift set is the perfect gift to keep you or a loved one feeling and looking refreshed for all holiday engagements. Give to all the ageless beauties on your list.

Gift Set Includes:

Gifts for Bath & Body

Pamper the body and soul with these all-natural aromatherapy-powered gifts.

Source Vitál Apothecary Bath & Body Holiday Gift Set

Don’t forget the men on your list! Body and personal care products are for everyone. Curated with some of Source Vitál’s most popular products, this kit banishes stress, keeps you smelling fresh and clean, and promotes touchably soft skin.

Gift Set Includes:

Source Vitál Apothecary Shop ‘til You Drop Kit

This gift set has a little bit of everything! Perfect for spa-newcomers or those who like to switch things up and try out new products. Packed with products designed for deep relaxation, the teachers on your gift list will love using this set to recover from the busy fall semester.

Gift Set Includes:

Source Vitál Apothecary Bath Oil 5-Pack

These oils will promise the ultimate aromatic bathing experience. This gift set is perfect for someone who needs to make more time for self-care and relaxation. Yogi’s will love using these aromatherapy blends to help them connect to their moment of Zen.

Gift Set Includes:

Source Vitál Apothecary Body Glow Duo

This gift set allows for customization, providing you with a personal gift you know someone will love! With our wide selection of body lotions and scrubs, you won’t have any trouble finding the perfect scent or formula. Specially packaged to easily fit in most stockings!

Gift Set Includes:

Want even more gift ideas? Check out our full spa menu that includes facials and skin care , massage therapy and body work , hydrotherapy, wraps and scrubs , and a collection of fabulous spa packages . Or choose a Sanctuary Spa gift card for the ultimate personalized gift.

Happy shopping. We wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and safe travels!

How to Spa – Sanctuary Spa Experts Reveal Their Favorite Treatments

Fri, 01 Dec 2017 20:39:00 GMT

We all love insider tips, so we asked our team of spa professionals to share their favorite spa services at Sanctuary Spa Houston. From fabulous facials to therapeutic massage and even hair removal – there’s a little bit of everything here.

It helps that our talented technicians know Sanctuary Spa and our service menu front-to-back! Not only do they spend countless hours in our treatment rooms using the products and equipment with clients, but they also research the latest wellness techniques to improve their skills. And it’s all because we want you to have the best possible spa experience.

Our Experts Favorite Spa Treatments

“My favorite spa service to receive is a massage with sports enhancement. I love being able to stretch during a massage. It leaves me feeling refreshed and limber. My favorite service to give is any facial with the seaweed poultice. I’ve been experimenting with the algae, and it gives such immediate results. All facials can benefit from this enhancement.”
– Jonathan W.

“I’ve never had a facial like the one at Sanctuary. The facials we offer are what made me want to work here! I love the facials because, while I’m getting a facial massage, my face is being cleaned and purified at the same time.”
– Jessica G

“I love doing the restorative facial. It’s a wonderful service that leaves guests feeling refreshed and their skin looking younger.
– Kimberly M.

“The personalized facial is my favorite service. After hearing a guest’s concerns, I can then create an experience and apply products that leave them feeling radiant and younger.”
– Ana S.

“Waxing is my favorite spa service. Sanctuary Spa’s estheticians pair the appropriate wax to match the guest’s hair and skin types. They use pre- and post-wax products that leave you feeling soft and smooth! I would recommend a waxing service to someone who has never been waxed or who has had a bad experience elsewhere. Our technicians are professional and knowledgeable, which make me feel comfortable and confident.”
– Kristen K.

Our team of experts wants to ensure a rewarding and relaxing experience at Sanctuary Spa. Carve out some personal wellness time for yourself to try one of our technicians’ favorite services – a personalized facial, massage, or waxing service.

Schedule your visit today !

As a Thank You, We’re Offering 10% Off Spa Services and Products

Fri, 24 Nov 2017 16:30:00 GMT

The holidays can be an especially exciting AND busy time. Between searching for the perfect gifts for friends and family, hosting guests, attending parties, and squeezing in family activities, it’s easy to forget to take care of yourself. How can you make the most out of the holiday season if you aren’t feeling your best?

Avoid the retail chaos this year by treating yourself or your loved ones to any of the revitalizing services and all-natural and naturally-derived products at Sanctuary Spa. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself to a holiday-season escape, or you’re on the hunt for the perfect gift, we’ve got you covered – complete with excellent Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday discounts!

FIRST, GET 10% OFF WHEN YOU BOOK YOUR SPA SERVICES TODAY THROUGH MONDAY

Call us at 713.622.7722 on Friday (11/24) through Monday (11/27) to book your next appointment(s), and get 10% off. Appointments booked during these four days for any dates in the future will receive the discount.* Our guest care team is standing by to assist you.

PLUS, SHOP WITH US ON SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY – GET 10% OFF ALL PRODUCTS AND HOLIDAY KITS!

Saturday, November 25th is Small Business Saturday and Sanctuary Spa is proud to be participating. This weekend kicks off the busiest shopping season of the year, so skip the malls and drop by Sanctuary Spa to get 10% off all products. Don’t forget to check out our seasonal gift kits and stocking stuffers put together by Source Vital Apothecary and Rhonda Allison.

FINALLY, BOOK AND BUY ONLINE ON CYBER MONDAY AND GET 10% OFF

With our Cyber Monday promotion, you can book appointments and buy gift certificates online without ever leaving the comfort of your home. Book your appointment online on Monday for a future appointment and get 10% off PLUS save 10% when you give the “gift of spa” with our online gift certificates (pay $180 for a $200 gift certificate, for example). Use promo code “ CYBER10 ” on CyberMonday to get this promotion.

Sanctuary Spa is ready to give you great spa experience that will have leave you feeling renewed, rejuvenated, and ready to be your best self this holiday season. Whether you need that the perfect gift or some “Me Time” away from the crowds (and, let’s face it, your family), we encourage you to visit. We want to help you enjoy the holidays!

Embracing Health During the Holiday Season: 4 Holistic Practices for the Season of Cheer

Fri, 17 Nov 2017 18:22:00 GMT

The holidays can be a fun-filled time to spend with friends and family at parties filled with sweets and other tasty goodies. With all the fun going on, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. It’s important that you maintain your mental and physical health so you can best enjoy the holiday season!

Try these four tips to help you get the most out of your time with loved ones.

1) Be Mindful at Your Events

During the holidays, we really enjoy seeing loved ones we haven’t seen all year! To truly relish having these treasure people around you during the season, plan some fun, holiday-themed events for everyone! Be sure to focus on your friends and family so you can really appreciate the experiences.

With all of this activity, you should be intentional with the time you give to others. Concentrate on having great one-on-one conversations by really listening and engaging with friends and family. Focusing on truly being present for these important people in your life.

In addition to all the socializing, you should set aside time for yourself. This way, you can be better prepared for all the activities and events going during the holidays. Our Signature Restorative Facial is a perfect way to set aside an hour of your time to relax and rejuvenate!

2) Make Time for Physical Health

With holiday treats everywhere in sight, it’s important to stay on top of your physical health. Skipping your exercise routine too many times in a row and not pursuing healthy food options can leave you feeling sluggish.

Simple acts, such as drinking lots of water while at parties or eating a healthy meal before an event to prevent sugar cravings later, can keep you on top of your holiday party game. Feel free to indulge some this holiday season, but remember – balance is key, so enjoy everything in moderation!

3) Simplify Your To-Do List

The holidays mean lots of parties, shopping, and get-togethers. While these can be fun and exciting events, make sure not to over-schedule yourself. Focus on the stuff you need to do, and then make a list of what you want to do. When you prioritize the important stuff, you won’t be event-fatigued, and you’ll actually enjoy the holiday season.

4) Give back

The holidays are a great time to reflect on the world around you. Engaging with your community will make you feel like a part of something bigger and do wonders for your mental health. Volunteering at a food kitchen, donating clothes, or being a part of a community project are all great ways to focus on helping those around you.

Using these 4 holistic practices can help you achieve balance in your life during the holidays, as staying healthy will allow you to better appreciate all the joy the season can bring.

Need some extra help finding peace and relaxation this season? Sanctuary Spa wants to be a personal retreat for you and your loved ones. Call us today to plan your holiday escape in our relaxing environment!

Prepping Your Skin for Winter Weather

Fri, 10 Nov 2017 17:05:00 GMT

Winter will be here before we know it! Although we don’t expect the temperatures to drop too much here in the Lone Star State, the seasonal change can still affect your skin. With a few adjustments to your skin care routine and some strategic spa treatments sprinkled in, you’ll be glowing all winter long.

Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!

During the wintertime, we get a brief reprieve from heat and humidity. As the air becomes drier, so can our skin. In order to make up for this lack of additional moisture, it’s so important to make sure you’re adjusting your skin care regimen. If you’ve been using lighter moisturizers for the summer and fall, now is the time to opt for a richer cream. Don’t forget to protect your lips and hands as well, as these are often exposed to the elements. Invest in a nourishing lip balm and hand cream.

Avoid Stripping

As the temperatures drop, we often find ourselves upping the temperature of our bath or shower to warm up. While we can’t deny the cozy comfort a hot bath or shower brings, increasing the heat too much can dry out the skin, stripping it of its natural oils. Try to be mindful of the temperature of the water you’re using and shorten your bathing time when possible. Don’t forget to apply your favorite moisturizer afterward!

Be mindful of the type of cleanser you’re using on your skin as well – both face and body. Traditional soaps and harsher foaming cleansers can dry out the skin in general, but especially during the winter months. Try switching to a more gentle, emollient cleanser if you find that your skin is feeling tight or flaky.

In addition to changing up your skin care routine, there are quite a few spa treatments that are specifically good during the winter time.

Holiday Glow

Chemical peels are a great way to combat that “winter skin” look and get you glowing in time for the holidays. The fall and winter months are prime “peel” season because the sun isn’t quite as strong and we tend to spend more time indoors. If a chemical peel is your thing, it’s best to schedule those treatments now.

As with all of our treatments, your chemical peel will be suited to your skin type and your specific needs. Because of the nature of the treatment, we recommend scheduling your peel at least two weeks before any event or holiday party. Looking for something a little gentler that still gets you glowing? Try our Aroma Peel enhancement. It is an all-natural alternative to chemical peels made from a special blend of pure essential oils. Generally, six Aroma Peel treatments equal one chemical peel. There is no downtime with an Aroma Peel and it is well suited for all skin types.

Warm Up

Feeling a bit chilly? We offer a variety of treatments that will help to thaw you out of that winter chill. Try out our hot-stone massage, or enhance your usual massage with a warming our Stress Relief Backpack. Melt away the winter blues in our Infusion Tub or relax under the calming pressure of our Vichy Shower.

Have questions or looking to get a head start on your winter glow? Give us a call, we’re happy to point you in the right direction!

Get to Know Your Sanctuary Spa Team

Fri, 03 Nov 2017 21:42:00 GMT

Sanctuary Spa offers a welcoming and healing escape for all of our guests. Our fabulous team of professional spa technicians are key. With expertise in massage therapy, esthetics, hydrotherapy and holistic healing practices, our experts are committed to providing excellent care and making each visit a mini retreat from your everyday life.

Our experience starts with listening to your needs and understanding the individual factors that are affecting your skin and body. By taking a consultative approach, we deliver treatments that provide ultimate benefits for you, the guest. Our technicians spend most of their time at the spa listening and helping others, but we thought it would be fun to turn the tables and hear from them.

Ever wondered what products and services professionals actually use? Here’s your chance to get to know our team and get some insider tips. November is National Skincare Month, so to start out our “Get to Know our Team” series, we are sharing the skin care products our service technicians can’t live without.

Ana S. – Source Vitál Apothecary’s Customized Facial Cocktail serum

“[it is] four serums in one bottle and you are good to glow, [stay moisturized] all day long.”

Jessica G. – Source Vitál Apothecary’s Bath & Body Oils, Infusion Blends, Algae Deep Cleanse and Aromatic Emulsion

“My favorite part of Source Vitál products is the way they make you feel on the inside and out.”

Jonathan W. – Source Vitál Apothecary’s Liposome Serum

“I’ve never seen another product plump and hydrate the skin faster than this serum.”

Kimberly M. – Source Vitál Apothecary’s Silt Scrub

“ I love that it’s more than just a scrub and can be used as a mask. That’s how I use it.”

Kristen K. – Source Vitál Apothecary’s Coconut Oil

“It’s warm, coconut scent is intoxicating!”

Check our blog for the inside scoop on our technicians and their recommendations on spa services, products and more!

Focus on Flexibility: 4 Reasons Your Body Will Thank You for Stretching

Wed, 25 Oct 2017 20:41:00 GMT

Sometimes we are lucky enough to cram in a workout during lunch hour, but stretching often gets pushed to the side when we’re crunched for time. When you really think about it, this seems so silly because stretching provides an almost instantaneous moment of bliss as the body gets a rush of blood and a feeling of stress and tension leaving the body. We believe stretching is almost as important in holistic wellness as mediation, good nutrition and sleep. Here are four reasons why it’s time to start incorporating stretching into your daily routine.

1. Relieve muscle tension

Sitting at a desk from 9 to 5 creates a buildup of tension in certain areas of the body, not to mention pain from being in the same spot for an extended period. Stretching allows muscles to contract and lengthen, working out any stiffness or built-up tension. Next time you’re feeling pain while at your office desk, try to get up and stretch your body out. Hopefully by the end of your stretch, your muscles will feel better and you can think more clearly. Need some stretching inspiration? This article from Real Simple offers some great tips on how to stretch at your desk.

2. Relieve mental tension

When you’re stressed, blood flow is restricted from certain areas of the body, which can lead to difficulty concentrating. Long stretches that allow you to hold the position for several seconds before letting go release tension in the body, boost blood circulation and relax the mind. These slow, tension-relieving stretches allow you to pause your day for a few minutes and focus on yourself.

3. Improved posture

Consistent stretching over time can lead to improved posture. Tense muscles can cause slouching and as a result, more muscle pain and tension. Adding stretching into your routine also increases body awareness, making you more likely to notice how your body is positioned during the day.

4. Long-term health & chronic pain

Consistent stretching protects your body from long-term chronic pain and injury. While stretching in the moment is perfect for relieving tensions, preventing workout-related injuries, and improving posture, stretching consistently protects your body in the future. Having an established routine of stretching aids in the overall flexibility of your body and allows you to move better, longer.

Self-care: Make Your Wellness a Priority this Fall

Fri, 20 Oct 2017 21:56:00 GMT

From Glamour to Buzzfeed, Women’s Health to social media and your local news shows – the term “self-care” is everywhere these days. But what is self-care, and how do you incorporate it into your routine? We all try to take care of ourselves, but how do we do it?

Put simply, self-care is any activity we engage in deliberately to nourish our physical, mental or emotional health. It sounds straightforward, but it’s something that can often be neglected when we become wrapped up in things like work, family or chores. Proper self-care can not only improve your mood and reduce anxiety, but it can help prevent burnout.

It’s hard to take care of others when your own needs aren’t being fully met. Now that fall is upon us, what better time to refresh your routine and your outlook on life? Here are our favorite self-care activities for fall.

Exercise Outside

Exercise is fundamental to our physical and mental health. As with all self-care, balance is key. Try finding an exercise that you enjoy doing, whether it be swimming, running, lifting weights, yoga, or taking classes. If you hate running, don’t force yourself to do. You’re much more likely to stick to a routine if it’s something you enjoy doing. Exercise should be something you get to do, not something you have to do. In the fall, we try to take our exercise outside when permitting. There’s nothing like breathing in crisp fall air to clear your head and refresh the spirit.

Fall Scents

We fully believe that your home should be your sanctuary. One of the most important components of a comforting environment is scent, one of our most powerful senses. There is something magical about smelling a certain scent and being instantly transported back to a certain time or place. Envelope your home in the soft comforting scent of the holidays with Source Vitál Apothecary’s Seasons Essential Oil Blend . Formulated with spruce, nutmeg and cinnamon, this blend will wrap you in the comforting nostalgia of holidays seasons past – without any potentially irritating synthetic fragrance!

Fall Superfoods

Every self-care routine should incorporate wholesome, fresh foods. That doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in yummy fall treats like pumpkin bread or apple pie every now and again, but ask yourself, “is this kind to my body? Am I nourishing myself?” Indulging in that slice of pie may very well be the kindness and nourishment your body and mind needs at that particular time – like we said, it’s all about balance!

With that in mind, fall is a great time to take advantage of all the superfoods that are in-season. Stop by your local farmer’s market to pick up fresh Brussel sprouts, apples, sweet potatoes, pomegranates, pumpkin, cauliflower or squash. There’s no time like the present to start incorporating these delicious, nourishing superfoods into your diet.

Take Baths

Who said baths are just for kids? Taking a warm, decadent bath is a simple way to give ourselves that extra care we so need after a long day. Feeling sore, or just stressed? Throw in some relaxing bath salts or bath oil (or both) to elevate your bathing experience . Source Vitál Apothecary’s Serene Bath & Body Oil is brilliant for unwinding after a taxing day, while their Analgesic Bath Salts help to soothe sore and achy muscles. Play around to find what combination suits you.

Dry-brushing is another practice that can take your bath time to the next level. While your bath water is running, use a soft, natural-bristle brush to brush your dry skin. Begin at the feet and hands, brushing toward the heart. Not only does dry brushing feel good and exfoliate your skin, but it helps support the lymphatic system by stimulating lymph flow. Proper lymph flow is crucial to the body’s natural detoxification process.

Another great bathing option is to take a dip in one of the infusion tubs at Sanctuary Spa . Hydrotherapy, like the services we offer at Sanctuary Spa, is the application of water for the treatment and maintenance of health. Soak in our tubs for 25 minutes to treat a variety of conditions or to improve your overall well-being. This option makes self-care accessible, even when your schedule is tight. Just lay back and let the healing waters work their magic.

Taking the time to slow down and really take care of ourselves is key to our overall health and wellbeing. Self-care isn’t something that just happens, it’s something you must make a conscious effort to do. If that means blocking off time on your personal calendar, go for it! You’ll find what works best for you and leaves you feeling the most refueled. As with everything, practice makes perfect.

Expert Tips to Help You Care for Oily Skin

Thu, 12 Oct 2017 14:58:00 GMT

It seems like we always wish to have the type of skin opposite of what we were given. If you have dry skin, you are fed up with the feeling of tight skin and always needing to reapply moisturizer to keep your skin from looking dull and flaky. With oily skin, most fight acne and breakouts and long for the feeling of balanced skin. Needless to say, each skin type has its own challenges, but for us at the spa it is oily and acne-prone skin that has many of our guests struggling to find effective at-home treatments.

Is oily skin harder to treat daily? Not with the right techniques and products. And on the plus side, people with oily skin tend to have less wrinkles … so there’s a great reason to embrace the shine. Let us help you become an expert on treating your oily skin so it is no longer a nuisance in your daily life. This guide provides some tricks and tips so you can have spa-beautiful skin between facial appointments.

Daily Routine for Treating Oily Skin

Cleanser
For oily/acne-prone skin, a gel cleanser is great for everyday use. A gel or foamy cleanser will remove oil and layers of makeup, and help unclog pores. The only side note here is that you may need to switch up your cleanser when there are changes in the climate or changes in your frequency of washing. Beware of formulas that can be overly drying as this can actually lead the skin to try to overcorrect by producing even more oil.

Moisturizer
You always want to follow any cleanser with a moisturizer. It may sound crazy, but the goal here is to use a light moisturizer. Sometimes these formulas will be called a fluid or a lotion, rather than a heavy cream. Also, get really good at reading ingredient lists. Look for oils and emollients that are good for oily skin and avoid the ones that can add more congestion such as high oleic fatty acids like coconut oil or shea butter. Here is a good guide from our friends at Source Vitál Apothecary that breaks down oils that work well for oily and acne-prone skin types.

Dr. Eric Schweiger explains why you should still use moisturizer with oily skin, saying “By skipping the moisturizer, your skin will dry out and in turn rebound with more oil production, which can actually cause more breakouts.”

Mask
Many guests think that since they are under the “oily skin” umbrella, they should use a face mask that goes for the “drying effect,” but this is a common misconception. You may want to dry up the “excess” oil, but overall you should think more along the lines of balance. Use masks that regulate oil and clear pores. A good mask to achieve this would be any type of clay mask. Clay masks absorb the toxic agents in your clogged pores, but are also mineral rich and feed the skin nutrients it may be lacking.

Exfoliate
Exfoliating is the trickiest treatment to perfect because if you do it too infrequently, you can look greasy, but if you are exfoliating too often, you run the risk of irritating your skin or even drying it out. A good benchmark to use with oily skin exfoliating is 2-3 times a week. By removing dead skin, grime and excess oil, pores will be clear of the material that leads to breakouts and appear smaller.

Facials – at Sanctuary Spa
Since oily skin is the most prone to acne breakouts, it can be beneficial to come in routinely for one of our extraction facials. This special treatment is designed for those in need of regular extraction services for moderate to heavy congestion and impacted skins. It will speed up the healing process of acneic skins that are experiencing problems with blackheads. It is also a more hygienic and safe way to deal with breakouts. Picking at your skin at home could cause scarring and more irritation. Professionals at the spa are trained to know the right way to handle blemishes. Our extraction facial includes cleansing, exfoliation, steam, extraction, nourishment, and moisturization. You can also add additional extractions as an enhancement to our other facials.

And never forget….

Drink Water
It is so important to always drink plenty of water to keep your skin properly hydrated! It will help to bring about a more balanced feel to the skin and aids in the removal of toxins that can cause irritations – so drink up.

Relaxation Tips for the Extra Stressed

Fri, 06 Oct 2017 15:16:00 GMT

“Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” ~ World Health Organization

Mental health usually takes a back seat to everything else in our busy lives. In an age where everyone is always connected and always moving, mental health issues fade into the background. We tend to focus much more on our physical and social health, and we don’t take a minute to think about our mental health. We are surrounded by stigmas about therapy and mental illnesses that make it even harder to acknowledge that sometimes we need to take a step back and focus on our mental state.

There are numerous events and situations that can take a toll on your psychological well-being, from stress at work to a traumatic event such as Hurricane Harvey. Although these are two very different situations, there are tactics you can use to ease psychological trauma and focus on your mental health in either case.

Eat Healthy, Well-Balanced Meals

Most people do not realize the benefits eating well can have on your mental health. When we are stressed, we crave comfort food like pizza and ice cream, but these heavy options tend to decrease our energy levels, making us even more lethargic and less motivated to overcome stress. Foods such as spinach, blueberries and turkey can increase hormones in your body that naturally relieve stress.

Give Yourself a Break

Take time in your day to do something you like – get a massage, take a yoga class, cook your favorite meal. Allow yourself to have fun and relax. It’s hard for many people to take time to do this because they are worried about their never-ending to-do lists, but making the choice to set your to-do list aside and just have some “me time” is crucial to mental well-being.

Quiet Your Mind

Tactics such as meditation and mindfulness help us take a moment away from all the noise in our lives. Mindfulness is the state of being aware of something. We should take time every day to inventory how we are feeling, what is causing us stress, and what is making us happy. This does not necessarily mean actively finding solutions, but rather calmly accepting our feelings.

Allow Yourself to Feel Emotions without Judgement

We are our own harshest critics. We not only ignore our mental health, but feel we have to be happy and put together all the time. Forcing ourselves to feel certain emotions is even worse than ignoring them in the first place. We need to create a place of healing and acceptance within ourselves where we are allowed to feel sad or stressed. The best way to overcome these negative emotions is to first acknowledge and accept them.

Reach Out to Others

When we are stressed we tend to close ourselves off from friends and family, when what we should do is surround ourselves with loved ones. Interaction with other people releases the chemical dopamine in our system, which creates warm, happy feelings in our brain.

Sometimes we need to slow down and step back from our daily stresses. Take time for yourself and come de-stress at Sanctuary Spa. Give us a call to start your healing and renewing process today.

Supercharge your Health and Well-Being with These 5 Tips to Detox Your Body

Fri, 29 Sep 2017 15:30:00 GMT

These days it seems like everything has “toxins.” Non-organic produce, makeup, cleaning products, scented candles – the list goes on. While sometimes it may seem that dangerous chemicals are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce their effects on your health and well-being. Here are a few easy ways to detox your in your everyday.

Reduce Your Exposure

It seems like a no-brainer, but the first step to reducing the a

mount of toxins your body is taking in is to decrease your exposure. If you can, try switching to organic foods and drinks. Avoid using or purchasing products that are chemical laden, such as household cleaners and personal care items. Try DIYing your own cleaning solutions and begin phasing over to all-natural makeup, skincare and personal care products.

Exercise

We know it can be difficult to find the motivation to squeeze in some exercise after you’ve had a long day, but it’s very important. Exercise helps keep your lymphatic system – which is responsible for your immune system – active. If your lymphatic system becomes stagnant, your body doesn’t expel waste as efficiently. Exercise also makes you sweat, which helps speed up the removal of toxins.

Up Your Fiber

The more fiber you eat, the quicker your body can remove waste. Keeping your colon regular is necessary for your overall health, but it’s especially important when trying to detoxify your system. Eating 30 to 40 grams of fiber daily should keep things moving.

Hydrate

We can’t stress enough how beneficial proper hydration is to your health. On average, we should be drinking 64 ounces of water a day, or eight eight-ounce glasses. If you’re highly active, you should be drinking even more. An easy way to determine how much water you should be drinking is to divide your weight by 2. For example, a 180 pound man should drink approximately 90 ounces of water per day for optimum hydration.

Massage

In addition to lifestyle choices, massage is a great way to help coax toxins out of the body. As we’ve discussed in previous blogs, massage helps to stimulate the lymphatic system, which is key in removing toxins and waste. For an added boost, we advocate massage that incorporates essential oils, as their healing properties can further the detoxifying effects of the massage.

As with any health or wellness routine, be sure to discuss any concerns you may have with a licensed physician before making any radical changes. We hope you find these tips useful!

4 Hot Reasons to Love an Infusion Tub

Fri, 22 Sep 2017 15:07:00 GMT

At Sanctuary Spa, our holistic approach to wellness is incorporated in all spa services, including our Infusion Tubs. Our Infusion Tubs are great for detox, stress, low immunity and general wellness. Your tub water is infused with nourishing seaweed, Dead Sea salts, and aromatic essential oils for your overall health.

Depending on what your body needs, you may choose from any one of our four specialized tubs. We hope this 25-minute service leaves you feeling luxurious and revitalized. Each tub variation has special settings that change the water flow and jets – designed specifically to best reap the benefits of each tub, as well as for where the therapy focus is. Your therapist will cater to you during your treatment, providing an icy compress for your forehead to ensure a refreshing and relaxing experience. This healing water tub provides a relaxing, floating sensation – your perfect escape.

1. Relaxation Tub

If you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or are simply looking to find a little peace and tranquility, the relaxation tub is for you. The Relaxation Tub uses a blend of aromatic oils formulated specifically to help reduce stress and provide serenity to your life, as well as help combat mental fatigue. It’s the perfect escape after a long day in the office. This tub is formulated with a tranquil blend of essential oils, dead sea salts and algae powder to help nourish the skin.

2. Lymphatic Drainage/Detox Tub

This tub is great for detox and renewal of the body. This blend of aromatic oils is specially formulated to help ease stress, cramps, or issues in the lymphatic system. It’s great for high levels of toxicity and can also help improve circulation. This lymphatic-loving recipe helps revitalize the lymphatic system, and includes Dead Sea salts and algae powder to feed skin.

3. Sports (Sore Muscles & Joints) Tub

This rejuvenating bath is great after a long workout. It’s the perfect remedy for sore or achy muscles and joints. If you are dealing with a sports injury, this is the spa service for you.

This infusion tub uses specially formulated ingredients, such as aromatic oils that are designed to help ease the feeling of inflamed muscles and joints, including arthritis. The oils in this bath also have aromatic qualities that can soothe the pain of a migraine or headache. This tub also contains renewing ingredients, such as dead sea salts and algae powder.

4. Skin Softening & Hydrating Tub

This enriching tub is great for nourishing and hydrating the skin. If your skin is feeling rough, dry, or undernourished, this is the tub for you. The perfect blend of aromatic oils helps reduce the feeling of tension. Other ingredients are algae powder, dead sea salts, and coconut powder to feed your skin the nourishment it deserves.

Services to Pair

The Infusion Tub is a great service to pair. For example, after an infusion tub, indulge in a scrub. By pairing the infusion tub before a scrub, you can make the scrub service more effective – you loosen the dead skin in the infusion tub, making it easier to remove during the scrub. The result reveals a new, softer skin, reaping the optimal benefits of a scrub!

Try adding a massage after a detox infusion tub. The detox tub will help detoxify your system while the warm water helps you to relax and find solace – perfect right before a massage! The massage then continues to stimulate the lymphatic system, furthering the detoxifying process. Throughout these two services you will be in a relaxed state, experiencing a therapeutic “mini-getaway.”

Listen to your body and think about what it needs. Each person is different and has different needs, that’s why we offer multiple variations of our Infusion Tub. Consult with any of our technicians to figure out which Infusion Tub would be best suited for you. We want you and your body to get the most out of our spa services!

5 Ways to Have the Best Spa Experience

Fri, 15 Sep 2017 08:00:00 GMT

If you’re new to the spa, we understand not knowing what to expect or how to act can be a source of anxiety. Have no fear, we’re here to help! From tipping to proper attire, we’ve got you covered.

Punctuality

To ensure your spa experience is nothing less than totally relaxing, we recommend you arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. If you’re new to the spa, please allow 30 minutes to accommodate completion of your guest profile. Once your forms are complete, we welcome you to relax and have a snack or a drink in our meditation room.

Cell Phones

For your comfort and the comfort of our other guests, we recommend escaping from the digital world and turning your cell phone off during your service. Using cell phones during session slows the technician and your service time will be adjusted in order to finish on time. Not to mention, the lights and buzzing of a phone can be just enough to disrupt your relaxation, and you deserve full relaxation during your spa visit.

We request you please refrain from taking any phone calls within the spa, as it disrupts the tranquility of the environment. Preferably, keep your cell phone on silent or turned off.

Nudity

Massage is typically done with minimal clothing, but you are covered with a sheet at all times. Our therapists are well trained in the “art of draping” which means the area of the body they are working on is the only area exposed at that time. You may keep your underwear on, the key is your level of comfort.

The technician will leave the treatment room before you get up from the treatment. We provide disposable bottoms and bras for our hydrotherapy and wet room treatments; however, a swimsuit or nude is appropriate if you prefer.

Tipping

Our technicians work very hard, and gratuities are very much appreciated, at your discretion. You can indicate to the guest care team how much you would like to leave for your technician after your services. The standard spa tip ranges between 18% and 25% of the service total, but of course tip amount is left for you to decide!

Cancellations

As a courtesy to other guests and our technicians, we ask all appointments be cancelled at least 24 hours in advance; otherwise, 50% of the service booked will be charged. Out of respect for our technicians and other guests’ time, if you fail to show for your appointment without cancelling, 100% of the service booked will be charged.

Arriving late to your scheduled appointment will simply limit the time for your treatment. Your treatment will end on the scheduled time so the next client will not be delayed. The full value of your treatment will be applied.

We hope you find these tips to be helpful in making the most out of your spa experience. If you’re ever unsure of anything, just ask! Our technicians and guest services team are happy to assist – we want you to have the best spa experience possible.

Your Personal Guide to Getting the Best Facial for your Skin

Fri, 08 Sep 2017 15:55:00 GMT

Healthy, soft, glowing skin. Yes, it is possible! With the right care and maintenance for your complexion’s needs.

Your skin may have common tendencies within a particular skin type but the truth is, no one’s skin is the same. Lifestyle, genes, climate, skin care routines and many other factors impact the complexion. Our philosophy at Sanctuary Spa Houston is to understand the underlying issues with your skin and customize our services to meet your individual concerns.

The Personalized Facial

Diagnosing what’s going on with your skin can feel overwhelming. Oily and dehydrated? Dry with breakouts? Normal? The good news is you are not alone, our experienced technicians are here to guide you through every step.

Sanctuary’s Personalized Facial is developed to perfectly fit whatever you need – even the length of the facial. Your experience begins with a one-on-one consultation with your technician who will then personalize your service with the best techniques and products to awaken the health and beauty of your skin.

To top it off, you will also receive a back and shoulder massage that will also restore the mind and spirit. A true mini vacation from life’s little (or big) worries.

Developing a relationship with your esthetician will allow you to better understand how to care for your complexion at the spa and at home. Here’s a guide to help you choose an option that’s right for you.

Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

These two skin types are often grouped together because while not all oily skin has acne, most acne prone skin is oily. Generally, oily skin produces more oil than it needs, feels thicker than normal and dry skin, and has larger pores. The production of excess oil often leads to pimples and blemishes. To help oily skin:

Extraction Facial – Extractions are imperative to achieving clear skin. This treatment is designed for those who have congested, impacted pores. It helps the appearance of acneic skins, and blackheads and whiteheads are also addressed. This facial includes cleansing, exfoliation, steaming, extraction and moisturization. We recommend this facial be purchased as a series, as most will need more than one session to achieve optimal results.

In addition to your facial treatment, daily cleansing with a mildly antiseptic wash and following up with a light moisturizer is a good starting place.

Dry Skin

Dry skin may result from medication, too much sun/wind, poor diet, normal aging, dehydration, or using harsh soaps and chemical-heavy skin care products. The two types of dry skin are oil dry, which means oil glands are not producing enough oil to hydrate the skin, and water dry, which is dehydrated skin. Our own natural oil is our skin’s best moisturizer. The trick is getting the oil glands to cooperate. To help dry skin:

Microdermabrasion Facial – This facial is a safe and effective treatment for enhancing skin texture. This facial helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, burn scars and hyper-pigmentation. Our device propels fine crystal particles onto the surface of the skin, causing immediate exfoliation. The vacuum action stimulates blood flow, which helps accelerate the skin repair process, while suctioning the crystals from the skin. We recommend purchasing a series of treatments to achieve the best results.

In addition to this facial, the best ongoing treatment is to use products that can stimulate the skin’s natural oil production, thereby providing good moisture.

Sensitive Skin

There are those with skin that is easily upset and can’t tolerate harsh chemicals or even certain natural ingredients. Then there are others who tend to be upset due to allergies, improper care, or chronic skin conditions like rosacea, psoriasis or eczema. No matter what makes the skin irritable, sensitive skin is weakened skin. This skin needs to be exercised, strengthened and fortified before healthier skin can be achieved. Anything that can add to the inflammation negates this process. To help sensitive skin:

Minkyti Facial – This trademark facial features two cleansings, exfoliation, hydration, nourishment, steam, acupressure, connective tissue massage and seaweed poultice mask – the perfect advanced skin care treatment for ultra-dry and aging or mature skin. It is also recommended as post treatment for microdermabrasion or chemical peel.

In addition to this facial, keep in mind that gentle, calming ingredients that nourish and protect are essential in strengthening and bringing this skin type back into balance. Eliminating harmful cosmetic ingredients is a good place to start. Often people who think they have sensitive skin are experiencing a reaction to chemical ingredients.

Aging Skin

While growing older is inevitable, prevention is key to warding off premature skin aging and keeping the complexion looking its best as we mature. Smoking, overdoing the alcohol, and consuming too much sugar all lead to premature aging. There are natural ingredients that plump the skin, even skin tone, and soften lines. Regular facials can also help to keep skin looking youthful. To help with aging skin:

Micro-Current Anti-Aging – The micro-current works on the re-education of the muscles and the increase of collagen and elastin fibers. We can focus on lengthening muscles that have contracted over the years and shorten muscles that have become elongated due to age and gravity by stimulating 32 of the facial muscles with tiny amounts of electricity.

Oxygen Infusion Facial – The Oxygen Infusion Facial delivers powerful vitamins, antioxidants and hyaluronic acids into your skin, instantly smoothing the appearance of expression lines and wrinkles caused by facial muscle contractions around the forehead, eye, nasal folds and lip areas. Your skin will look and feel years younger, visibly lifted, toned and hydrated.

We are here to offer expert tips and tricks to help you achieve your skin care goals. Have any questions? Give our guest services a call or leave a comment below.

What to Look for in your Spa Treatment

Tue, 05 Sep 2017 20:42:00 GMT

Spa treatments are a wonderful way to relax, revitalize your body and practice self-care. When done right, a spa treatment can be rejuvenating and stress relieving. But when the spa treatment is less than quality, it can cause you more stress and result in an uncomfortable experience. To ensure that you are getting the treatment you deserve, keep an eye out for some of these things during your spa experience.

Spa Atmosphere

A major part of a spa experience is the spa’s atmosphere. Cleanliness should always be a priority for a spa that wants to provide the best experience for their guests. Health and wellness are core values at Sanctuary Spa, and cleanliness is something we prioritize. We consistently sanitize our tools and environment. Maintaining a sanitary space provides well-being to not only our guests, but to the health of employees as well. In addition to cleanliness, aroma and atmosphere also play a major part in a spa experience. We use essential oils in many of our services – giving our guests an aromatic atmosphere that allows them unwind and experience tranquility.

Comfortable Communication

Going into your treatment, it is important to communicate your needs to your spa technician so they can give you the best possible experience. An experienced esthetician or therapist should make you feel at ease when you enter the spa. At Sanctuary Spa, we take a consultative approach to your spa treatment, so depending on what your body’s needs are, we will adjust your spa treatment so it will be best for you! Our technicians understand all bodies are different and want to work with you to make your spa experience most worthwhile and beneficial to you.

Quiet and Relaxing

Stepping into a spa where there is banging, clanging and too much chatter can be off-putting. A spa is a place to relax, so it should be a quiet and calm sanctuary away from the busy world of work, family and friends. At Sanctuary Spa, we offer a serene atmosphere where you can escape from reality – we don’t want your valuable “me time” to be interrupted by unwanted noise. Our spa radiates tranquility to allow you to feel relaxed. Our rooms are small, intimate and quiet – meant for you and a breath of revitalization.

Being aware of these things can help you make an educated decision on where to spend your spa days. At Sanctuary we want to our guests to feel like the spa is their safe place to escape and breathe. You are always our top priority!

The Undeniable Wonders of Exfoliation

Fri, 25 Aug 2017 15:33:00 GMT

Why Exfoliate?

One of the best things you can do for your skin to keep it looking youthful is to exfoliate. During the exfoliation process, dead skin cells on the outer layer of the skin are removed, giving the skin a smoother, brighter appearance. It helps to increase the skin’s natural regenerative efforts to more quickly produce fresh, younger cells.

Exfoliation also helps to get rid of dry, flaky skin cells that are often the root of a breakout, or make the complexion look dull. It also unblocks pores to help the skin better absorb any product you are applying.

How often should I exfoliate?

If you are exfoliating at home, or taking a trip to the spa, be mindful of your skin type. All skin is different, so it’s important to be aware of what your’s can handle.

Exfoliation at the Spa

Body Exfoliation

The skin on all parts of our body needs to be exfoliated. At Sanctuary Spa, we want your skin to look, feel, and become as nourished as best as it can. To exfoliate the body, try our Sea Salt Scrub . In this scrub, Dead Sea Salts and freshwater colloidal silt are combined with algae extracts and essential oils to exfoliate and hydrate the body, leaving your skin feeling renewed. This scrub also helps increase circulation and improves digestion, general body weakness, and poor resistance to disease and infection.

Face Exfoliation

With Brea’s Signature Restorative Facial , our technicians use techniques to truly take care of your precious skin. This facial includes a revitalizing exfoliation along with cleansing and deep pore treatment for complexion. Your face will feel refreshed.

We want you to look and feel your best. Exfoliation is just another way to deeply care for your skin. If you want to know more, make an appointment and come in to consult with our technicians; they’d love to see you. Keep up the exfoliation at home, and depending on your skin type, we recommend coming in for a thorough spa exfoliation service at lease monthly, or more frequently.

Essential Oils at Their Core

Fri, 18 Aug 2017 20:14:00 GMT

We’ve all heard the term “essential oils” used before; however, how to best and properly use them to reap the many benefits they provide might not be so obvious. Essential oils provide great benefits to our skin, body, and hair, but they also aid in relaxation and emotional support. At Sanctuary Spa, we believe in using natural ingredients in our spa services because we love the holistic benefits they provide to the mind, body and spirit.

What are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are the concentrated liquids or oils that are obtained by distilling the seeds, leaves, branches, wood, bark, berries, flower, sap, needles or peels from plant botanicals. The oil that is produced during distillation retains the powerful properties that control the plant’s functions, quite like how human hormones, proteins and enzymes keep our bodies functioning at their best. Because of their chemical components, essential oils increase the body’s ability to receive the nutrients it needs to maintain optimum health. Our bodies are able to identify the natural composition of the oils and can more easily assimilate them for their therapeutic use.

Each essential oil contains special constituents that make it versatile in application and can be combined with a complimentary oil to create a different aroma or to enhance their beneficial properties. For example, some essential oils help ease congestion, while others work best to aid mental clarity, and still others are best used for relaxation and skin care.

Benefits

Some of the most noteworthy benefits of essential oils are that they are hydrating, oxygenating, detoxifying, and can help boost your immune system. Essential oils are commonly used to moisturize the skin and hair, and also help prevent aging caused by environmental damage.

Essential oils also contain chlorophyll, which has been proven to increase the oxygen levels in the body. Moreover, using essential oils to massage and exfoliate allows the body to detoxify itself of unwanted elements.

Ultimately, using essential oils will help increase our ability to bring hydration, more oxygen, and more nutrients into the body, giving our cells the fuel needed to function at their optimal level.

Added Bliss

Shelf life of essential oils is 5-10 years, so don’t be deterred by the price. Remember, a little bit goes a long way, and your essential oils aren’t expiring anytime soon. Typically, you can feel the effects of essential oils as soon as 20 minutes after first application.

At Sanctuary Spa, we use all-natural aromatic essential oils by Source Vitál Apothecary to provide optimal nourishment to your mind, body and spirit. Whether through topical use, aromatics, or inhalation, the incorporation of essential oils in your spa services creates a holistic experience unlike any other.

The Incredible Benefits of Akasuri Scrub

Fri, 11 Aug 2017 15:30:00 GMT

Origin

Although the word “Akasuri” is Japanese in origin, this style of body scrub originated on the Korean peninsula. In Korean culture, bathing represents the purification of the soul, and Akasuri Scrub is the cornerstone of the Korean approach to holistic health and wellness.

Massage & Vichy Shower

Traditionally, the treatment begins with a visit to either a hot shower, bath, steam room or sauna. At Sanctuary Spa, we begin with a light massage, and move on to washing the body with an exfoliating glove. After this preparation, you will be given a relaxing, warm Vichy shower. The Vichy shower helps to increase circulation through the body, oxygenate the blood, decrease joint pain, relieve muscle pain, reduce muscle spasms and cramps, and reduce nervous stress and promotes relaxation, rest and recovery. It also helps soften the skin, preparing it for the scrub.

Scrub & Moisturization

After the Vichy Shower, any remaining bacteria, dirt or dead skin cells are removed during a vigorous scrub down. We then thoroughly scrub, clean and massage your body, both front and back. This thorough scrub down sloughs off impurities to expose newer, more youthful-looking skin. We finish off by gently massaging a moisturizing lotion into the skin. Your skin will feel remarkably smooth, clean and refreshed.

Benefits

Aside from feeling relaxed, refreshed and smoothed, what are the benefits of receiving such a treatment? There are plenty! At its core, the Akasuri Scrub exfoliates the skin. Not only does this leave your skin soft to the touch, but it removes oils, opening clogged pores. Removing all the waste that can linger on it helps your skin repair itself, and in turn leaves you with an improved complexion and a healthy “glow.”

Another benefit of the Akasuri Scrub is improved circulation. By stimulating the skin through rigorous massage, the scrub helps boost blood flow. Proper blood flow helps reduce the formation of cellulite and can improve the look of existing cellulite. This increased blood flow can also help skin to appear more toned and tightened.

Like all other types of massage, the Akasuri Scrub has excellent benefits for the lymphatic system. As a part of the circulatory system, the lymphatic system carries fluid toward the heart. This fluid consists of white blood cells, which fight bacteria, as well as proteins and fats from the intestines. By stimulating our lymphatic system, we bolster our immune system, lessening our risk of infection.

If you’re looking for something new and unique, give the Akasuri Scrub a try. Your body will thank you – both inside and out!

5 Easy Ways to Relax

Fri, 04 Aug 2017 15:38:00 GMT

Our minds and bodies are often stretched to the max with all the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. Sometimes, we need to escape the craziness as a healthy and necessary break from reality. Relaxation is what our bodies desperately need, especially in the midst of stress. Here are a few holistic and healthy ways to help you relax.

Plan Time for You

There are always going to be obligations, people, events, work, etc., that fill your week and keep you busy. To combat the consistent flow of hectic activity in your life, plan time for you. Before your week starts, plan where and when you can experience some delightful solitude.

Here are a few ways to start relaxing your mind:

The options are endless! Time to yourself is a holistic practice that is healthy to both your mind and spirit. Allow your mind to clear, and rejuvenate your soul while you reflect on the bigger, significant things in life.

For your Precious Body

It’s undeniable that our bodies truly relax through the power of touch and treatment. Massage increases blood circulation, helps reduce tension, and aids in easing tired and worn muscles. To unwind and experience full relaxation, try dimming the lights and indulging in a specialized massage where technicians use a holistic health approach to cater to your needs. Your opportunity to truly relax your heart and mind is a reality at Sanctuary Spa.

Sip Away Stress

Tea Time

Herbal teas are a great bet when seeking to wind down and relax. Here are a few herbal teas to consider for relaxation:

Fresh Juice

Our bodies desperately need antioxidants and vitamins. Vitamin deficiency can have a negative impact on the body and mind. Natural, fresh juices are filled with essential nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants, all of which can help regulate the body’s response to stress. In fact, B vitamins are very helpful for stress management.

Hydration

Along with a multitude of other benefits, staying hydrated can help prevent the likelihood of experiencing stress or anxiety. When our bodies are dehydrated, they don’t function properly. Symptoms such as poor blood flow, tense muscles, and trouble focusing can all be a result of dehydration and contribute to stress. Staying hydrated can also improve mood. Drink plenty of water and say goodbye to anxiety.

Along with hydrating our bodies internally, it’s important to hydrate and care for out outer selves as . Our Infusion Tub offers a soothing retreat that is great for detox and stress relief, similar to the relaxing feeling of soaking in a warm bath at home. Your bath is infused with nourishing Laminaria algae powder, therapeutic Dead Sea salts, and aromatic essential oils to pamper the skin, body and soul.

Essential Oils

Essential oils offer hydration and remineralization, oxygenation, detoxification, immune support, and relaxation. Source Vitál Apothecary’s essential oil line takes a holistic and naturopathic approach using earthderived, natural ingredients. Some of our favorite essential oils to help lift your stress and worries are Lavender, Clary Sage, Ylang Ylang, Bergamot and Sandalwood.

To soothe your skin, mind and body, here are a few ways to best relax with essential oils.

Our Holistic Approach

Sat, 29 Jul 2017 01:41:00 GMT

At Sanctuary Spa, we take a holistic approach to our spa practices. This means we take time to ensure the mind, body and soul are all cared for. We are committed to your well-being and seek to impart a truly therapeutic experience to each of our guests. Whether you’re seeking relief from pain, stress reduction, release of tension, or simply relaxation, our unique approach will leave you not only looking your best, but feeling your best as well.

Our therapists soothe and heal, balance and enhance with progressive treatments and services that are inspired by natural plant and flower essences. While our team of seasoned experts help to ensure you’re receiving exceptional service and treatment, it is our principles that are vital to our unique approach.

Listen & Learn

Nobody is the same, and neither is any body ! This is why our therapists spend time with you to understand your specific concerns and your body’s problem areas. We will want to get an idea of what your wellness goals are, as well as what your expected outcome is from receiving a treatment.

Customize

Our services are not “one size fits all.” We want to make sure you get the best results possible and that means tailoring our services to you and your body’s needs. Our technicians specialize in combining products and techniques from several types of modalities to provide you a highly-personalized experience. You will see from our menu of services that each service is customizable – if you’re unsure what might be beneficial to you, talk with your therapist for their expert recommendations.

Communicate & Collaborate

We will check in with you before, during and after your service to ensure you are comfortable and your needs are met. Don’t be afraid to speak up! This should be a collaborative experience – your input and feedback are integral to ensuring you are getting the most out of your time with us.

Continue at Home

Skin and body care don’t stop at the spa doors! We encourage you to continue your self-care at home, and our team is more than happy to give you recommendations to keep you looking and feeling your best between spa sessions.

Our commitment to the holistic health and well-being of our guests is at the core of everything we do. If you’re in need of a wellness tune-up, give us a call at 713-622-7722 to get started.

The Minkyti® Facial – The Best Facial on the Planet for Dry and Aging Skin

Fri, 21 Jul 2017 16:51:00 GMT

One of our main concerns for our skin is preventing and reducing the visible signs of aging. To do that, we must infuse dry and aging skin with nourishing essential vitamins, minerals, trace elements, amino acids and enzymes. When the skin is dry, sloughing of dead skin cells is too slow and circulation is minimal, all resulting in sluggish cell renewal and a reduction in that healthy glow that keeps us looking young.

With our unique Minkyti® Facial*, we combine expert techniques that go to the core of what’s causing skin to weaken and age. No other method is as comprehensive in naturally stimulating your complexion to look its best. Deep cleansing and exfoliation are combined with shiatsu pressure point and connective tissue massage to increase circulation to the connective tissues of the face, neck and décolleté area, allowing for greater penetration of nourishment directly into the skin.

A custom algae mask, infused with 100% pure essential oils, is applied for ultimate remineralization and relaxation. Results can immediately be seen and felt. You will experience the return of a youthful glow, the visible signs of aging will begin to diminish, and your spirit will feel rejuvenated.

WHO SHOULD GET A MINKYTI?

Simple. Anyone with ultra-dry or mature skin in need of some extra TLC. The facial is also excellent for before and after surgical procedures, chemical peels, and/or microdermabrasion. Alginic acid in the seaweeds used in the Minkyti affects fibroblasts in the skin, which is where the body’s natural production of collagen and elastin occurs. By increasing collagen and elastin production, the skin is suppler and strengthened to withstand these extreme treatments.

BENEFITS OF THE MINKYTI

Our innovative Minkyti facial is invigorating for all the senses. It is truly a holistic treatment that not only benefits the skin, but revitalizes the mind and spirit as well. Here are just a few of the benefits that you can expect.

Yes, you will look fabulous, but you will feel even better. Taking the time to care for your precious face with the help of well-trained, thoughtful technicians, natural aromatherapy techniques, and good-for-you products, will enhance your health long after you leave the spa. These unique holistic approaches are what make the Minkyti spa experience unlike any other you have tried before.

WHAT MAKES THE MINKYTI UNIQUE?

ACUPRESSURE

Our special Acupressure Technique is based on a method called Oriental Analysis. The routine is designed to stimulate the Organ Reflex Zones of the face … like reflexology for the face. The Organ Reflex Zones translate to various parts of the body. By applying the Acupressure Technique you can directly address those areas that are carrying stress just as you would in hand and foot reflexology. With the acupressure, we are stimulating and/or balancing the reflex zones to enhance your body’s overall balance. When your body is balanced, it is more relaxed and able to work more efficiently.

CONNECTIVE TISSUE MASSAGE

The word Minkyti is derived from a Czech word which means “to knead.” The Connective Tissue Massage is a lifting technique that releases fascia and breaks up adhesions which reduce the appearance of tension lines, aging lines and wrinkles. This creates a more natural and lasting effect than injections and chemical alternatives.

NATURALLY EFFECTIVE INGREDIENTS

Using products formulated with high-quality, naturally-effective ingredients is a critical element for result-oriented therapies. The Minkyti Facial focuses on reducing the visible signs of aging through the use of specific products carefully chosen to achieve this focus. The Source Vitál Apothecary product line incorporates the science of essential oils and thalassotherapy (use of algae/seaweed) to produce lasting results in the condition of the skin. These ingredients work with the skin, not against it. By taking an active, yet gentle approach, the skin’s natural healing abilities are encouraged, without the risk of irritation or inflammation.

ESSENTIAL OILS and AROMATHERAPY

THALASSOTHERAPY and the USE OF SEAWEED

DETAILS

Science and years of experience come together to make the Minkyti the ultimate retreat. Visit us at besanctuary.com to schedule your time to relax and rejuvenate.

The Minkyti Facial lasts 90 minutes and costs $175. For best results, we recommend you start with a series of six, once a week for six weeks.

*Minkyti is a registered trademark of Source Vitál, LLC.

What to Do Before & After a Massage

Fri, 14 Jul 2017 14:32:00 GMT

We often discuss the many wonderful benefits a massage can have on the body. From relaxed muscles to an overall reduction in stress and anxiety, the effects massage can have are truly incredible.

Part of ensuring that you get the most out of your massage and that you’re properly caring for your body, is taking the appropriate steps before and after your treatment. Here are some pointers on how to fully reap the benefits of your massage experience.

Before

Prepping prior to your massage is key. If you’re planning any rigorous workouts the day of your massage, we recommend doing them before your session. Massage helps to lengthen and loosen up the muscular system. Attempting to perform high-intensity activities immediately following a massage may increase your risk of injury. The ideal time to get a massage would be after a workout, to help soothe tired muscles.

It’s also important to make sure you’re fueling your body the right way prior to your massage. Alcohol, caffeine, and high-fat, heavy meals should be avoided. Both alcohol and caffeine are diuretics, which means they can increase your fluid retention. Rather than helping your body to flush away toxins, diuretics make it harder for your body to rid itself of them. Having a light meal a couple of hours before your massage will help keep hunger pangs away without making you feel bloated or overfull.

After

One of the great benefits of massage is that it helps increase blood and lymphatic circulation. Your body needs water to perform both of these functions; therefore, it’s important to make sure you’re increasing your water intake post massage. This will help your freshly-stimulated circulatory and lymphatic systems drain excess waste from the body.

While we don’t recommend anything strenuous after your massage, light stretching or yoga can help prolong the positive effects of your treatment. Massage warms up the muscles, so this is an excellent time to work in a nice, long stretch. If you find that your muscles are a little sore after your massage, using a product like Source Vitál’s Sports Balm can help alleviate any muscle soreness.

With the endless hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s not always possible to just relax. With that said, we highly recommend scheduling your massage at a time when you’re free to head home and chill afterward. Reading a book, having a nap, or taking a bath are all great ways to prolong your relaxation. Rest, recover, and enjoy.

Spa Guide for Men

Fri, 07 Jul 2017 15:15:00 GMT

“The spa” – often what you think of when you hear the girls talk about their “day out.” Men, at some point, you’ve probably overheard the ladies discussing “the spa” or some form of its services. Although women tend to frequent the spa more than men, there are plenty of spa services that could be right up your alley – no feminine implications attached! The spa is for you too, and Sanctuary Spa invites you to experience the holistic benefits the spa has to offer. Check out our spa guide to see where the spa experience best fits you.

Post Workout

Physical activity is necessary to practicing a healthy lifestyle. Sometimes physical activity includes a run, weight room, workout routine, or sports game. Between all the activity, the aches and pains our bodies endure need to be cared for. It’s important to relieve the muscle tension, and a massage post workout can help soothe soreness and prevent your muscles from tightening up.

If you are an athlete who experiences pain and soreness from exercise, try enhancing your massage with the Sports Pack. The Sports Pack includes enhanced stretching techniques, massage via mentholated poultice balls that reach deep into sore aching muscles to produce deep relaxation and stress relief, and the application of natural products formulated for sports- related aches and pains.

Another perfect way to help remedy those tired muscles after an exhausting physical activity is with our Sporty package. Rejuvenate and repair your body with this luxurious spa service, meant for the most active athletes. Marathon runners, this package is for you! The Sporty package includes our Infusion Tub Therapy, a 60 min Sanctuary Signature Massage, and the Sports Pack enhancement.

Caring for the Face

Guys, between the sun, dirt and grime, and skin damage from shaving, your face takes a beating, so it’s important to properly clean and care for it. Men tend to have thicker skin, more oil, and larger pores that need cleaning and exfoliation, and because of their thicker skin, men can tolerate more frequent exfoliation. This helps keep pores clean and prevents buildup of oil and dirt that can cause inflammation and breakouts.

During our Microdermabrasion facial, our device propels fine crystal particles onto the surface of the skin, causing immediate exfoliation. The vacuum action stimulates blood flow, which helps accelerate the skin repair process while suctioning the crystals from the skin. You will see a reduction in fine lines, acne scars, burn scars, and hyper-pigmentation.

Keep the Body Healthy

Proper blood circulation is a key component of our health and wellness. Our circulatory systems move oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. You can assist that process, as well as experience many other health benefits, with our hydrotherapy tub. In the hydrotherapy tub, the Vichy Shower is known to not only oxygenate blood, but increase circulation through the body, decrease joint pain, relieve muscle pain, reduce muscle spasms and cramps, reduce nervous stress, and promote relaxation, rest and recovery.

In the Vichy shower, choose either the Vichy Contrasting or Relaxation, depending on your needs. In the Vichy Contrasting, the shower temperature alternates to oxygenate and detoxify blood. This version of the Vichy Shower is excellent for a devitalized body, low energy, or stress. In the Vichy Relaxation, 93-97 degree of warm water is used for deep relaxation to melt away the stress and provide relief.

Caring for the Lady

If there’s a lady in your life, there’s no denying that she probably enjoys the spa, as well as alone time with you. Carve out some time for the two of you to experience the holistic benefits of our Couples Signature Massage. Not only will you enjoy a massage, but you get to enjoy the company as well. This is the perfect gift to show thoughtfulness, while experiencing the benefits of muscle relief, relaxation and serenity. For this massage, our therapists will consult each of you, tailoring your massage experience to your body’s unique needs.

7 Meaningful Ways to Take Care of Your Body After Travel

Fri, 30 Jun 2017 18:57:00 GMT

Traveling comes with much excitement – staying up into the wee early hours to see a new city, experiencing new cultures, lifestyles, time zones, foods and fun. During our travels, we often push ourselves to the limit in our quest to experience and take in everything we can for the little time we are there. By the end of the trip, your body probably feels a bit drained. Help refuel and remedy your fatigued, post travel body with these holistic practices.

Hydrate

During and after travel, our body’s energy is used to the max, and we often come home feeling depleted. To combat the loss of energy, it’s important replenish fluids that were lost while traveling. Immediately upon return, it’s a good idea to drink lots of water to rehydrate and make your body feel better equipped for your transition back home.

Relax Your Body

After being cooped up in a car or plane for hours on end, our bodies can develop a little soreness. Allow yourself to take some time to revive those muscles and relieve any tension that may have built up on your trip. Curious how to relieve stress that built up during your trip? To restore and rejuvenate your body, try adding the Stress Relief Backpack to enhance your favorite massage with the added benefits of minerals, hydration, healing and detoxification. The Stress Relief Backpack uses warmed black silt and fango mud to de-stress and detox the back.

Proper Rest

Recuperation is vital to your recovery and transition back home. Our body schedules can get out of whack while on the road, with time zone changes or loss of sleep from trying to take in all of what a new place has to offer. Experiencing exhaustion after a trip is very common. Scheduling your following week to include optimal time for sleep and rest is essential. Our bodies live off a rhythm, and can easily feel fatigued when that rhythm and schedule deviates. The sooner you adapt back to your regular sleeping patterns, the sooner you will feel reenergized.

Healthy Eating

Experiencing a different culture gives us an excuse to try all kinds of new and potentially unhealthy foods. Eating well will help reduce feelings of post travel sluggishness. Incorporate plenty of healthy fats, fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains into your diet.

Schedule Time to Yourself

The thrill of travel can often make us feel apprehensive about coming home. Schedule something to look forward to following your return, whether it’s finding time for a hobby of yours, or treating yourself to an Extraction Facial . This facial is designed to treat heavily congested and impacted skin and includes cleansing, exfoliation, steaming, extraction and moisturization.

Exercise

Take care of your body by incorporating physical activity during the week of return. Endorphins help boost your energy, while exercise can help provide a better night’s rest.

Detoxify

Renew your system after your getaway with our Detox package . This package will help eliminate toxins that the body accumulates, especially during travel. This holistic remedy includes services that are designed specifically to flush toxins and excess fluid, eliminate metabolic waste, and stimulate the lymphatic system. The package includes our Seaweed Wrap, the Infusion Tub Therapy, and a 75 Signature Massage that employs specific “detox” techniques aimed at the lymphatic system.

How Often Should You Really Get a Massage?

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 10:00:00 GMT

While many save trips to the spa for special occasions, your overall health can benefit significantly from incorporating massage therapy into your health and wellness routine. From soothing chronic aches and pains, to speeding athletic recovery, the benefits of regular massage are plentiful. How often you should get a massage for optimal results depends on your lifestyle, as well as what you would like to accomplish through massage therapy.

Regular massage can help:

Stress Reduction

If you find that your stress levels are relatively low to mid-level, treating yourself to a massage once or twice a month should be sufficient for you to reap the benefits. Not only does massage calm the nervous system, but it helps increase blood and lymphatic circulation, improving your overall health. Those with physically taxing jobs or who work in high-stress environments should consider weekly massage sessions to help reduce stress.

Pain Management

For pain management, we recommend weekly sessions. However, frequency depends on your pain levels and how you feel. If you find that your pain returns quickly after massage, you likely need to return more often for sessions. Over time, you may find that you need treatments less frequently as your muscles begin to stretch and become more compliant. It’s worth noting that the benefits of massage are cumulative, so it’s important to make sure you aren’t spacing your treatments too far apart.

Athletic Performance

Massage can help athletes prepare their bodies for peak performance, as well as help with recovery after important events. Your ideal massage frequency can vary, depending on how rigorous your activity level is, as well as your baseline condition. Serious athletes may need multiple sessions per week to keep their bodies in top condition. The casual athlete can get away with less frequent sessions. If you have chronic muscle issues or are increasing the intensity of your training, you should up your frequency. Otherwise, one or two session per month should keep your body performing its best.

Recovery

Massage therapy can help get you back on your feet post injury or surgery. It can help speed up the recovery process by increasing blood flow, reducing pain, breaking up scar tissue and reducing swelling caused by lymph build up. Of course, you should always check with your doctor first before adding massage into your routine. Once cleared, we recommend starting with two session per week, decreasing frequency as your recovery progresses.

Consulting with one of our trained massage therapists will give them a better understanding of what your body needs and will help them fine-tune a plan that is best suited for you. With time and consistency, massage therapy can help you to feel your best – in mind, body and spirit.

6 Astounding Benefits Yoga Can Provide

Fri, 16 Jun 2017 15:06:00 GMT

At Sanctuary Spa, we believe in holistic wellness practices and take an approach toward spa services that prioritizes your health. Incorporating holistic practices in multiple aspects of life engenders optimal health and wellness. Like many of our spa services, the holistic practice of yoga provides an opportunity to increase your overall wellness – what we value most here at Sanctuary Spa.

Yoga has been a physical, spiritual and mental practice throughout many cultures for thousands of years. The practice of yoga has adapted to various belief systems and techniques in its long evolution. There are many reasons why people practice yoga today. Whether it’s to embrace the physical body, enhance spiritual life, create a clear mental space, or any combination thereof, yoga offers indisputable health benefits.

Flexibility

When practicing yoga, muscles are stretched in directions they normally wouldn’t go. The result – increased flexibility, allowing you to touch places you might not have been able to reach before. Lower back pain, knee aches and more can be attributed to tight muscles. When you practice yoga, the various poses provide you with the ability to unwind those muscles and increase your overall flexibility. You’ll notice the gradual loosening of your muscles, and former aches and pains throughout the body will begin to become less apparent.

Increases Blood Flow

Yoga increases blood flow as a result of your muscles moving and being positioned in ways that are far from stationary. With twists and turns of the body, oxygenated blood circulates throughout the muscles. Practicing poses such as headstands or shoulder stands encourages venous blood flow throughout the entire body. Increasing blood flow is vital to your physical health, as it benefits the heart, muscles and arteries.

Balance

When practicing yoga, you allow all parts of your body to communicate with one another. Proprioception is one’s sense of the body regarding position, motion and the relative space it occupies. The muscle strength that is built when practicing yoga can improve posture and proprioception, ultimately improving balance. The benefit of improved balance is that it allows your body to be attuned to the space it occupies. Feel more confident when you decide to stand on one foot.

Holistic Wellness

Yoga not only provides physical benefits, but enhances every aspect of your health and well-being. Holistic wellness encompasses mental and emotional balance, as well. Practice synchronizing your breaths, look within, and allow your mind to experience serenity. Smile at the holistic health benefits yoga offers.

Stress Relief and Spiritual Peace

Stress naturally accompanies life. Derived as a practice of spiritual wellness, yoga provides a space of pure consciousness that allows you to escape the stresses of today’s world. It gives you the opportunity to clear your mind, practice thankfulness, meditate, or pray. Yoga lets you take a step back and gives you the space to experience spiritual peace as you escape the world’s natural stressors.

Relationship Enhancement

Yoga gears the mind toward love, allowing it to positively impact your relationships. Building a community of friends with a focus on love and compassion is a great way to improve health and healing. During your yoga practices, focus your mind on the peace within and allow that to transcend to all relationships in your life.

These yoga benefits take time and come with habitual practice. We hope you find your yoga groove and can experience the wonderful benefits that come with practicing yoga.

How to Choose Your Massage

Fri, 09 Jun 2017 10:00:00 GMT

Whether you’re suffering from tight muscles, or you just need a little rest and relaxation, our massage treatments will help you unwind and renew your mind and body. Not sure what your body needs? We’re here to help!

A key part to a great spa experience is making sure you’re in the right hands. Therapists at Sanctuary Spa are expertly trained to understand body mechanics – how muscle pain is related to specific points on the body – as well as holistic massage practices.

There are many different types of massages, and selecting the technique that’s right for you can seem daunting. Our therapists use multiple massage techniques, including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports and Lymphatic. Each massage session can be completely customized to your needs, so you may prefer a combination of these techniques.

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is the most well-known type of massage, and consists of light to medium strokes. If you’re a massage first-timer, Swedish massage is the best place to start. It is great for relaxation, and is the base foundation for sports massage, deep tissue massage and aromatherapy massage. Like lymphatic massage, Swedish massage helps boost circulation and in turn, speeds the removal of bodily waste. Massage induced relaxation can decrease cortisol while increasing serotonin levels, which can result in an elevated mood.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage can be used for chronic aches, a stiff upper neck and back, lower back pain, leg muscle tightness and sore shoulders. It uses slower strokes and firm pressure to reach deeper layers of fascia and muscles. It can help break up scar tissue and knots that can disrupt circulation, cause pain and limit range of motion.

Sports Massage

As the name suggests, sports massage is geared toward athletes. It is used to help prevent injuries, prepare the body for athletic performance and help with recovery. The technique used depends on the athlete’s activity of choice, but it will always focus on the areas of the body that are overused.

Lymphatic Massage

Lymphatic massage encourages natural drainage of the lymph, which carries fluids and waste products away from the tissues. When the lymphatic system is working well, our body has a strong line of defense against illness. When our lymphatic system is blocked, we can experience swelling, lethargy and more susceptibility to illness. Lymphatic massage may help the lymph system perform its job better. By applying light pressure in a circular motion, therapists can stimulate the lymph system to work more efficiently.

If you’re not sure what you need, talk to your massage therapist. They’re happy to help build a massage that’s suited to you and your body’s needs.

The “Master” Brea Gratia Returns to Sanctuary Spa for 3-Day Training Course

Fri, 02 Jun 2017 20:44:00 GMT

Sanctuary Spa founder, Brea Gratia, was back in Houston last week to share her unique holistic approach to skin, body and hydrotherapy care with our team of estheticians and massage therapists.

Acting as a mentor and coach, Brea led our technicians through the journey of her remarkable 40 years in the spa industry and empowered them to create the most relaxing, beneficial spa experience imaginable.

The training began with a hands-on demonstration of Brea’s masterful facial techniques, treating our very own therapist, Ana, with a fabulous restorative facial.

The rest of the week’s classes included advanced massage and body techniques using natural products like seaweeds, muds, essential oils, and botanicals.

These lessons are at the heart of the Sanctuary Spa mission to always go above and beyond in making the spa experience a true retreat from life’s daily worries. The Sanctuary Spa team is even more excited to make the spa a comforting and healing space for all.

Our holistic protocols begin with aromatherapy and are packed with extra “goodies” (like back massages during our facials), that provide an opportunity to prepare the body and mind for the ultimate relaxing treatment. We encourage a complete holistic experience by starting every facial with a “connection” using your choice of one of our signature essential oil blends to encourage our guests to connect the health of the body to mind and spirit.

In 2013, Brea fulfilled a long-time dream and relocated to Ashville, North Carolina where she started Virtu, a facial, skin care and body care practice. Over the years, Brea has developed a set of unique skills and practices that set her apart from your average esthetician. Known as an acne and aging specialist, she is full of ideas and dives deep into the study of the skin and how it works. Featured in numerous publications, including Vogue, Time Magazine, Travel and Leisure, and Town and Country, Brea is renowned for her innovation in the spa industry. Beyond that, she’s studied naturopathic medicine and is a certified Naturopathic doctor.

You can treat your skin to Brea’s Signature Restorative Facial at Sanctuary Spa. This popular facial features an amazing combination of cleansing and exfoliation with an additional deep pore treatment that is the key to a youthful, glowing complexion. Top it off with our signature massage techniques that allow you an escape into complete relaxation.

We can’t wait to put the new skills we’ve learned from Brea into practice! To schedule your own restorative escape schedule your visit online at besanctuary.com .

Health Benefits of a Massage

Fri, 19 May 2017 19:22:00 GMT

Who doesn’t love taking a step back from reality to enter the ultimate stage of serenity? Massages have always been a well-regarded method to take time out from the stressors in our daily lives. However, there is much more to massage therapy than meets the eye. Massage therapy not only brings us peace, but it includes a multitude of health benefits. Here are some ways we can truly benefit by integrating massage therapy into our regimen.

Counterbalance Postural Stress

Like much of America, our corporate jobs require us to sit at a desk most hours of the day. Hours of hovering over a desk can cause a perpetual hunch, wrecking our posture. Whether you sit at a desk most hours of the day or not, postural stress is extremely common. Massage therapy can help relieve pain associated with postural stress and improve posture over time.

Muscle Pain

Muscular pains are common in day-to-day life. Whether from an intense workout, sports game, or just a long week, muscles ache. For sore and hurting muscles, massage therapy is a great remedy. Massage can speed muscular recovery time by increasing blood circulation and oxygen supply, as well as releasing toxins .

Sleep Improvement

A solid night’s rest is vital amid the chaos of our daily lives. A massage directly influences serotonin which is necessary in the production of melatonin – the sleep hormone. The National Institution of Health recommends massage therapy, as it can reduce fatigue and increase sleep quality by restoring sleep patterns.

Increased Flexibility

We all know that stretching improves flexibility, but it’s not the only method that works. Whether you’re an exercise enthusiast or not, muscle, fascia, and other tissues are often stubborn and cause tightness. Massage therapy is a great way to ease tightness because it stretches muscle fibers , resulting in a more flexible you!

Stress and Tension

Cortisol is referred to as the “stress hormone” and is produced during stressful, high intensity situations. After stressful situations, it’s important to bring these cortisol levels back down to normal. High levels of cortisol in the body for too long can have negative effects, such as fatigue, inflammation and weight gain. Maintaining normal and balanced cortisol levels keeps our body happy and healthy. Massage therapy helps reduce cortisol levels by aiding the body in relaxation and reducing overall stress.

The Power of Meditation

Fri, 12 May 2017 10:00:00 GMT

Despite meditation’s steady gain in popularity in recent years, many may find they know little of what the practice entails or the benefits it can reap. The idea that mediation is reserved for Buddhist monks and yogis is simply not true. Whether you’re searching for enlightenment or just craving a moment of peace, anyone can benefit from practicing meditation.

Practiced for thousands of years , meditation began as an exercise for spiritual growth. Secular meditation emphasizes relaxation, self-improvement and stress reduction. Not only can meditation benefit your emotional well-being, but your overall health as well.

Everyone has stressors in their life. Over time, stress can leave us feeling worn down and overwhelmed. Practicing meditation helps improve the way we respond to stressful situations, allowing us to let go of unhealthy emotional states.

Improves Concentration

A study done by Italian neuroscientist Guiseppe Pagnoni found that not only does mediation change brain patterns, but is advantageous in mental focus that may improve cognitive performance. If you’re looking for a mental boost, try meditation.

Increases Self-Awareness

Self-awareness is the process of retreating within and connecting with yourself. Being self-aware allows you to explore what you need to live a fulfilling life. With the constant stimuli of cell phones, TVs, advertisements and social media constantly bombarding us, it can be difficult to focus on your inner self. Meditation provides an excellent avenue to enable you to stop and reflect.

Boosts Happiness

Recent studies indicate that meditation can improve your baseline level of happiness. In one study, Compuware Corporation, a business software and information technology services company, offered its employees six-hour long group mediation sessions over a period of seven weeks. The participants were asked to meditate five times a week for 15-20 minutes. The results showed that over time, this mediation practice increased daily experiences of positive emotions.

Increases Self-Acceptance

Your reality is what you make it. Meditation can be used to increase your sense of self-acceptance, or self-love. It is an outlet for personal reflection, and can help with self-esteem issues or negative opinions of yourself.

Slows Aging

By reducing stress levels, mediation may help slow aging. A study done by Nobel Prize winner Elizabeth Blackburn found that highly stressed people had shortened telomeres , which may be linked to health concerns. The study found that less stressed people with longer telomeres experienced better cognitive function, increased sense of purpose in life, improved mindfulness, improved health and longer lives.

Benefits Cardiovascular Health

Relaxation naturally increases nitric oxide in the body, which causes blood vessels to open and, in-turn, blood pressure to drop. If you’re experiencing high blood pressure, including meditation in your daily routine could help improve your heart health.

There are many different kinds of meditation, and it may take some trial and error to find what kind is best suited to your needs. Meditation is not a cure-all, but with consistency and practice, it can bring inner peace and calm.

6 Great Gift Ideas for the Spa-loving Mom

Tue, 25 Apr 2017 01:42:00 GMT

It’s that time of year again. That time when you rack your brain trying to find something special and unique for your loved ones on Mother’s Day. On top of that, you need a gift for your mom, your grandmother, maybe your wife, maybe even your mother-in-law. It can be a challenge. We understand. Well, maybe we can help a little.

Here’s a list of spa service and product ideas to make your search a little easier:

Call us today at 713-622-7722 so we can help with your Mother’s Day Gifts.

7 Reasons Why You Should Experience Sanctuary Spa

Tue, 18 Apr 2017 13:30:00 GMT

Feeling tense and in much need of some revitalization? Well, Sanctuary Spa is the perfect destination for you. We design our nourishing spa practices with the goal that you leave rejuvenated and revived in mind, body, and spirit with our aromatherapeutic and holistic health approach.

Each technician at Sanctuary Spa is licensed and certified according to industry standard and trained above and beyond industry norms. We evaluate your health history, challenges and lifestyle to ensure we provide the ultimate service that is right for you. Technicians are matched to your requested pressure level and esthetic needs.

We Use the Best in Natural Products

We use all natural products from Source Vitál Apothecary, developed through a holistic and naturopathic approach to health using natural and earth derived components.

These products combine the highest quality seaweed, plant extracts, and pure essential oils to formulate our extraordinary skin care, body care and aromatherapy products. Source Vitál products are hand-crafted in small batches to ensure freshness and effectiveness.

An Aromatherapy Experience

Our aromatherapy practices work to help you feel calmed and conditioned. We rescue you from the stress of current life and help you recover and repair with skin, body and holistic energy balance services. Our therapists soothe and heal, balance and enhance with progressive treatments and services that are inspired by natural plant and flower essences.

A Great Location

Nestled between iconic Houston neighborhoods River Oaks and Montrose, Sanctuary Spa is one of the first day spas founded in the United States. Once arrived, spa services are delivered in a beautiful, intimate, and peaceful ambiance designed to immediately vanquish your tension, stress and fatigue.

Luxurious Facials

We sequence our facials in such a manner to awaken your skin’s healing potential as well as eliminate possible topical factors contributing to your condition. Our work will relax, detoxify and soothe your skin while simultaneously hydrating and improving blood and lymph circulation. Seaweed, herbs and essential oils from plants are effectively used to promote the health and beauty of your skin.

Our belief in the therapeutic use of hot and cold applications of water to the body for a period of time has a profound effect on the quality of one’s health. Hydrotherapy is the application of water in any form either externally or internally, for the treatment and maintenance of health.

An Escape from the Ordinary

Sometimes, life is stressful and we need to rejuvenate our souls. Escape your everyday life and begin your journey to relaxation, nourishment, and restoration. Visit the tranquility of Sanctuary today to get away.

Let’s Wrap This Up!

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 04:25:00 GMT

Many articles have been written either praising the benefits or criticizing and claiming it is as quack logic. My firm belief is that there are definitely gimmicks out there, where all you lose is water weight or the technicians use tricks to make you appear to lose those inches. But a wrap should not make any promises or guarantees. Every “body” is unique, therefore, it will react differently to the wraps. The ingredients being used are also crucial to what outcome you will have with a wrap.

The ingredients are designed to draw out the excess fluids and toxins while restoring nutrients to the body. So the combination is key! A few of the beneficial ingredients you should look for in a wrap are:

Mud and seaweeds– which helps improve the metabolism of the cell and helps pull out toxins. It’s also great for detoxing and skin firming.

Caffeine– Helps increase metabolism, increase blood flow and facilitate the process of fat burning, and are able to remove fat which is accumulated in the adipocytes, the cells in which fat is stored.

Aloe Vera– Provides nourishment for healthy skin and encourages healing.

I think another important part of deciding if wraps really work, is to look at what your expectations are for this treatment. Are you expecting to drop a dress size after just one treatment? Are you thinking all the lumps and bumps will magically disappear? If you answered yes to these questions, then you will not be happy with your results.

It’s important to know going in that you will need to have a series of wraps, depending which wrap you are getting, and what results you are trying to achieve. Typically 6-12 treatments spaced 3-5 days apart are suggested for optimal results. You also need to be drinking plenty of water before and after your wrap, and practice healthy diet and exercise habits.

People are often surprised by some of the side effects they experience. Bloating, flu-like symptoms and fatigue can occur, which might make you think there is something wrong. This is caused from the ingredients in the wrap that are breaking down and removing the toxins, causing you to feel sick. Drinking plenty of water can help speed up recovery to help flush the toxins out.

I believe if you go in with the right “mind-set” and understanding of what the wrap is designed to do, then you will be very happy with your results. Wraps are great for relieving stress, increasing circulation, nourishing and hydrating skin, breaking up of fatty deposits and firming skin, while also helping to “reduce the appearance” (not completely get rid of) cellulite.

My First Facial: Sharing my Experience by Rashida Alisha Hagakore

Sat, 12 Jul 2014 04:17:00 GMT

In the era of the Affordable Health Care Act, discovering how to maintain wellness from a preventative perspective is what every savvy American has had to become adept at: eating good food, inserting exercise of some sort around crammed work schedules, and basic self-care products and routines are what consist of real health insurance these days.

In other cultures, group classes (dance, tai chi, yoga, et al), massages, getting scrubbed with minerals, dipping in cold and hot water, receiving beauty enhancements (like tattoos, plaits, piercings or mehndi) are a way of life. The elitism around beauty & body maintenance in the States are evolving to a baseline necessity. Activities such as these are no longer “just for rich people” but are ventures and services that keep one physically, psychologically and socially thriving.