Category Archives: Makeup

Lash Savvy

Makeup

By Kim Taylor

Of all the services available in the world of beauty, the ones that render immediate results are the favorites. In October 2018, we added eye lash extensions to our service offerings and clients are loving it! In fact, we spend a good amount of time describing and explaining the process, so I decided to write about it this month. If you have ever been curious about having amazing lashes without the daily chore of strip lashes and/or mascara, the following may be of interest to you…

What are lash extensions?

Lash extensions are single strands of synthetic eyelashes that are curved to replicate a natural eyelash. They are applied individually to each natural lash to lengthen and thicken your own lashes creating a beautiful lash line that allows you to go mascara-free. Extensions are great for everyday wear, vacations, and special occasions because they can be customized in length and thickness to achieve just about any desired look. A classic look is achieved by adhering one synthetic lash to each natural lash while a full and voluminous look is achieved by adhering a ‘fan’ of three synthetic lashes to each natural lash. Understated and natural or full and flirty- you choose. Perhaps you normally prefer your lashes to look very natural but desire a more glamorous look for an upcoming event? Not to worry; a different look can easily be achieved with each touch up because of the way your own natural lashes grow and shed.

What is the process?

The first application process for lash extensions takes 2-3 hours depending on the look you desire. You will relax comfortably on a facial table with your eyes closed. Your lashes will be cleaned and primed to ensure a strong bond, and extensions will then be applied to each individual eyelash on a hair by hair basisuntil the desired look is achieved. With proper application, the look and feel of lash extensions can be weightless, natural, and completely believable.

How long do they last?

Applied correctly and cared for properly, your new lashes will last the length of your natural lash growth cycle. Each client’s experience will differ based on how the lashes are cared for and a few lifestyle factors. Maintenance should be scheduled every 1-3 weeks. These appointments take about 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on how long it’s been since your last visit and how diligent you are with homecare. On average, a person loses around 20 natural lashes per week that are replaced with the growth of a new lash. Varying growth patterns keep lashes from shedding all at once. The lash extension is adhered to the natural lash, lasting until the natural lash sheds. Maintenance pushed out to four weeks and beyond is not considered ‘maintenance’ and a full set will be scheduled.

Am I a good candidate?

Lash extensions require a simple daily maintenance commitment that consists of cleansing with oil-free cleanser and brushing to keep them looking and feeling good. Added to your daily skin care regimen, this should be a breeze.

There are many reasons why people choose to get lash extensions, and just about anyone can be a good candidate for them. If you have light colored, thinning, or short lashes extensions may be a great option for you! Many women who don’t wear makeup due to allergy or sensitivity issues find that they can in fact wear lash extensions. If you have allergies or known sensitivities, a patch test must be done before committing. This is done at a complimentary consultation prior to scheduling your lash extension appointment.  

I personally enjoy the freedom from wearing mascara as it always transfers to under my eyes. I don’t wear a lot of makeup, so I prefer a very natural, classic lash look. I feel my eyes look bigger and brighter and less tired with extensions. I schedule my maintenance appointments every two weeks, and I am absolutely hooked!

How do I prepare for my first appointment?

Arrive to your appointment with clean, dry lashes and makeup free eyes. Do not use waterproof mascara for at least 3 – 4 days before your appointment as it leaves a film on your lashes and prevents the extensions from adhering properly.

About our lash specialist-

Lindsey Loya joined Essence in September, 2018. She holds her certification in lash extensions through Lash Savvy. Prior to joining our team, she worked as a lash specialist in California. Her calm demeanor and meticulous nature make her an excellent choice for your lash extensions.

In addition to her amazing work as a lash specialist, Lindsey has been a licensed cosmetologist since 2016. She spent 6 months working and learning with our veteran hair stylists to hone her skills. In February, 2019, she completed her in house training and transitioned to a Rising Star hair stylist position at Essence.

Lindsey’s passion for hair and all things beauty combined with her ability to master new trends and techniques quickly sets her apart from others with similar experience. She loves bright edgy colors and styles, yet also appreciates the beauty of classic natural looks.

A native of Southern California, Lindsey recently made her lifelong dream of living in Colorado a reality. While she is new to the Rockies, she is no stranger to the mountains and snow! She loves being outdoors and finds joy and inspiration both personally and professionally through nature.

How much are lash extensions?

Full Set

Classic Lash Set (2 hours) ~ $180

Classic/ Volume Lash Set (2.5 hours) ~ $200

Volume Lash Set (3 hours) ~ $225

Maintenance Pricing

1 week (45 minutes) ~ $45-$55

2 weeks (60 minutes) ~ $65-$75

3 weeks (75 minutes) ~ $85-$95

So, what are you waiting for? Call today to schedule your lash extension consultation and/or appointment with Lindsey Loya! We look forward to being part of what makes you look and feel beautiful.

Fall Transitions- From Hot Weather to Hotter Style

Hair Care, Makeup

By Kim Taylor

Farewell summer; autumn is waiting in the wings, and if history proves right, the need for change and reinvention is also on the horizon for many of us.

This is a perfect time of year to try something new and exciting with your look.

Warm, luscious hair color immediately comes to mind. Fall is a time to revel in warm, vibrant color. Some skin tones look great with fiery red hair, while others call for more subtle warmth. Even small adjustments can update your color for the new season. Something as simple as a few lowlights incorporated into a summer blonde can add the perfect amount of depth and warmth for the changing season. Warm tones are universally flattering when used appropriately. A great colorist will take the time to give you a complimentary color consultation. Never feel obligated to move forward if you are uncomfortable with their vision or lack confidence that they can pull it off.

A fresh spin on your hair style can be liberating. A few suggestions are to add or change up layers, cut slightly messy long bangs, and add lots of pieced out texture to create plenty of movement. Several variations of bobs and pixies are popular right now. Sometimes the simplicity of changing where you part your hair, or whether you wear it straight or wavy can provide the variety you seek. It is always a good idea to bring a picture of what you like- or several pictures and point out what it is about each one that appeals to you. This opens the lines of communication, providing a visual aid that your stylist can use to show you what will work best for your hair and why. If you are planning on a big change, please let the receptionist know when you book your appointment to be sure your stylist has plenty of time to make you happy.

Are you looking to make a BIG impression with a small commitment as you segue into fall?  Hair extensions can completely change your look! You can add fun pops of color without sacrificing the integrity of your own hair or add length and thickness to your existing hair without the painstakingly lengthy process of growing it out. Hair extensions come in many different types. We have found the most popular applications to be thermal bonded, tape in, and halo hair. A complimentary extension consultation will show you the difference between them and help you decide what is best for your lifestyle.

This is also a great time to accentuate your transformation by warming up your makeup palette. The purpose of makeup is to enhance natural beauty. Wearing the correct foundation for your skin type and tone is first and foremost. The right base should make your skin look flawless & fresh. Once you have the basics dialed in, have fun mixing up your color palette to compliment your current style. Again, small adjustments can make a big impression. Switching to a slightly darker lip color, adding a warm accent color to your eye shadow palette, even changing from black to brown mascara can be as much change as you need to look and feel amazing.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. We each have our own unique and beautiful features to consider when reinventing our style. I invite you to call Essence and schedule an appointment with our esthetician and makeup artist, Serissa as well as one of our seasoned hairstylists, Dang, Mackenzie, Kristen, or Emily to discuss the possibilities. Introductory bios for all of our staff can be found on our website: www.essencehairandbodyretreat.com. We look forward to caring for you soon!

Best Face Forward

Makeup, Skincare

by Kim Taylor

Wow! Is it spring already? It seems like just yesterday I was muddling through winter and now all of a sudden I have this burst of energy and motivation to clean and organize EVERYTHING! Unfortunately, even with the longer days I still can’t find time to do it all. I’ve learned over the years that I can’t tackle everything at once; I have to break tasks down into small projects or nothing will ever get finished. The other piece to that puzzle for me is trying to throw in a fun project here and there to keep me motivated.

A favorite spring project of mine is going through my makeup, purging and replacing the old while adding a few fun new items to update my look. This task feels especially significant to me this year as I am turning forty in April. I believe forty is just a doorway for all of the amazing things yet to come, but I still want to walk through that door looking twenty-five (ok, I’ll settle for early thirties).

First of all, I know that it doesn’t matter how great my makeup arsenal is if I don’t take good care of my skin. I own a salon and spa for goodness sakes, doesn’t that mean I know everything? HA- NOT EVEN CLOSE. However, I am a pretty smart cookie and I’ve staffed my spa with professionals who know a whole lot more than I do about skincare and makeup.

Before I get too excited about freshening up my makeup, let’s chat a bit about skincare. I am a true believer in professional skincare at home and in the spa. I use a combination of Sanitas and Image products and I love both equally. I never get rid of skincare products that are working for me- although I do have to replace empties and add new products that address my skin in a different way. I make sure to book skincare appointments regularly, (about every 6 weeks) so that I stay on top of changes in my skin. I’ve noticed in the last few years that I need and prefer a slightly more aggressive approach in the treatment room. In our dry climate, and maybe because I am no longer a spring chicken, I benefit greatly from resurfacing treatments such as microderm and dermaplane. They help my skin absorb all of the nutrients that are packed into my homecare products. One of the most fabulous things I can share with you about the estheticians at Essence is that every treatment is carefully customized to fit the individual needs of each client. This ensures you always get the facial your skin craves.

Skin that is well cared for is easier to apply makeup to and will yield a more natural and even result. My first choice in makeup is Glo Minerals. One of the qualities that makes Glo a standout makeup line is that they use pharmaceutical grade ingredients. They infuse their formulations with Vitamins A, C, E, and Green Tea Extract, a powerful antioxidant blend vital to maintaining and protecting healthy skin. I’ve been using Glo since we began carrying it in 2013. The line is complete; everything you need from foundation and concealers to eyes, lips, and cheeks. I truly appreciate the beauty and artistry that goes into a great smoky eye, a perfectly contoured jawline, and lips that pout but not overly so. However, I am more of a “fresh face” kind of gal. Their primer, sheer tint foundation, and blush are easy to use and feel amazing on my skin. Complement those staples with a couple of fun eyeshadows and lip colors and whatever else Glo is cooking up this season I am fresh and ready for spring (and the big 4-0)!

In anticipation of a beautiful spring, Essence has put together a week-long skincare and makeup event April 3-8. Our skincare specialists, Serissa Asta and Lindsey Sloan will be offering skincare and makeup consultations as well as specially priced makeup services. (details below)

Serissa Asta received her training at the Aveda Academy in downtown Denver in 2006, and continued her education at the Denver School of Aesthetics receiving certification in chemical peels and microdermabrasion. Serissa is talented in the art of eyebrow shaping and is experienced in body waxing. She thrives in situations that enable her to use her vibrancy and creativity, especially in the realm of makeup application. A former freelance makeup artist for MAC, Serissa thoroughly enjoys walking alongside her clients in mutual pursuit of renewal and reinvention. She values the process of skin care and strives to meet the unique requests that each client brings to the table.

Lindsey Sloan has been a licensed esthetician for over 14 years. She is very passionate and is deeply committed to achieving the best results possible, customizing every service to meet the needs of each client. Lindsey loves to learn and grow. She regularly attends advanced education classes and offers purposeful, effective treatments. Well-rounded and skillful, Lindsey offers a full menu of skincare services. Her specialties include anti -aging treatments, dermaplaning, and all types of waxing. She holds a degree in Psychology and enjoys assisting others in their journey to wellness and wholeness.

If you are looking for a fun, feel good spring project- consider adding some fun new skincare and makeup goodies to update your collection. We are excited to help you put your best face forward this spring!

Best Face Forward Event

When: All week Monday 4/3- Saturday 4/8

Where: Essence hair, skin, and body 1422 Bergen Parkway, Evergreen

  • Complimentary skin analysis, foundation matching, and makeup consultations by appointment.
  • Makeup application/lesson $45 by appointment (regularly $55- $65).
  • 15% off all Glo, Image, Sanitas, and in stock Clarisonic products.
  • Enter to win a sixty-minute customized facial with $50 makeup and/or skincare product purchase.

To book a consultation or makeup application/lesson, call 303-670-0777

AND….

While you are thinking about it, go to our website to see the great packages and seasonal offerings we have designed with YOU in mind. Happy spring- we’ll see you soon!

3-5-10 Minute Makeup Routine

Makeup

By Kandyce Braband, Esthetician

When it comes to makeup, the best approach is a no fuss routine for every day, coupled with a “bag of tricks (and techniques)” for special occasions. In general, women like to look fresh and natural; not overdone. This is the general consensus among our everyday beauties as well as our brides. Of course there are times when we are compelled to further enhance our natural appearance. Most days though, simplicity speaks. Here are a few tips to get you out the door with the simplest of efforts.

FOUNDATION

Choosing the right foundation is paramount; it will make or break your entire makeup application. Knowing your skin type is an important first challenge. Picking the wrong foundation for your skin type may cause your face to feel too dry or oily, resulting in blemishes or a “caked on” texture that looks anything but fresh and flawless.

Most foundations list what type of coverage they are designed to provide. Liquids are the most commonly found and used. They are formulated to work well on combination, balanced, and dry skin. Also popular are powder formulas which are best suited for those with balanced, combination, or oily skin. Cream is another option for dry skin, offering a smooth and velvety full coverage.

The next challenge is color matching a foundation to your skin. The easiest way to do this is to enlist the help of a makeup artist. Identifying one’s skin level and tone, and translating that information into a great foundation match takes training and practice. In most cases, even diligent sunscreen wearers need to be re-matched seasonally. Switching foundation brands or formulas also merits re-matching. The goal: foundation that blends seamlessly into your skin with minimal effort. At Essence, color matching is ALWAYS complimentary.

3 MINUTE MAKEUP

This is your bare-bones, “I needed to leave 5 minutes ago” routine. Quick, simple, fresh.

BASE – First, use a primer; if you have any skin texture issues or large pores this is very important. Apply with a brush or clean fingers. Next, apply foundation or tinted SPF all over with a foundation brush, blending well at the hair and jawline. Note: Tinted SPF, BB, and CC creams offer very similar coverage.

LASHES – Mascara is the easiest way to “wake up” your eyes. Use a lash curler and give lashes 2-3 pumps per eye, followed by mascara. It’s worth noting that lengthening mascara will always be less clumpy than volumizing mascara. If you don’t care for mascara, consider lash tinting or lash extensions (Essence offers both) and you’ll go from 3 to 2 minute makeup! Tip: Replace mascara every 3 months and always twirl the wand in the tube (pumping dries it out faster).

Finish this easy look with a light, translucent powder and you’re ready to go!

5 MINUTE MAKEUP

For days when you are not in a time crunch yet opt for simple and fresh.

BASE- see above.

CONCEALER -Using concealer under the eyes and over any blemishes will pull your look together even more by creating a more finished appearance. Using concealer after you’ve applied foundation will help you not to use too much. A good camouflage brush will also help your application.

BRONZER/BLUSH -Choose one or the other or both! Bronzer is great for contouring with a powder or fan brush – use sparingly on the temples, hollows of the cheeks, and jawline to create a more slender face. Blush should be applied from the ear toward the nose to accent the cheeks.

LASHES- see above.

Finish with a light, translucent powder and once again you’re ready to go!

10 MINUTE MAKEUP

For days when you have a little bit of time to spare and want to get a little “dolled up”.

BASE/ CONCEALER/ BRONZER/ BLUSH- see above.

EYESHADOW – Apply a basic neutral color over the entire lid, adding a lighter color onto the brow bone to brighten the eyes. There are many different things you can do with eyeshadow to enhance your eyes and overall look. Tip: Try an eyeshadow crayon! They are fast and easy- just make sure you find one that’s long-wearing.

EYELINER – The easiest type of eyeliner to apply is a creamy style liner. These can easily be smudged along the lash line, creating a natural look. If your favorite eyeliner doesn’t have a smudge brush on it, buy one! Tip: An imperfect eyeliner application can be salvaged with a smudge brush.

MASCARA- see above.

LIPSTICK/GLOSS – Complete your look with a swipe of your favorite lipstick. Right now matte, colorful, and long-wearing lipsticks are in – think bold reds, plums, and bright pinks! If bright is not your style, neutrals and glosses are a great classic choice. Most importantly, choose something that you feel confident in- you are beautiful!

Always finish with a light translucent powder and you’re ready to go!