The Benefits of Mobile Chair Massage

Stress at work? Yikes! We all go through it for sure. For employers, it is very important to maintain a healthy workplace, especially for their employees. One simple and affordable solution is providing mobile chair massage at work bring bountiful benefits to all.

Research has shown that there are various benefits from having a stress recess like scheduling a chair massage. Massage has shown to reduce blood pressure, relieve arthritis, increase energy, decrease anxiety, improve joints, and even increase immunity to cold and flu. In addition, we have witnessed same-day results that lasted for weeks!

In just little as 15 minutes, these mini massage breaks bring such great value and can aid in reducing pain, stress, and distractions. Chair massage for workplaces has become much more prevalent in their employee wellness program because it also increases productivity and improves performance and creative thinking. Chair massage has been proven to be quite handy and once it has been included in the company’s routine, you will notice the improvement within your team immediately.

For prices or to schedule an appointment for a personal session, e-mail us at appt@primpinhome.com

To learn more about our Mobile Chair Massage service for group sessions, visit www.primpevents.com!

Organic Skincare

Last week, I was sitting across from my 82-year-old mother and found myself staring at her face. Something was slightly different. Her skin looked firmer, healthier-glowing a bit. I had not seen her in a few weeks so the thought of a little plastic surgery did cross my mind. She joked for years about a little nip and tuck here and there but she would tell me right? So of course, I said something. I told her how great she looked (because she did) so she had the opportunity to spill the beans. She said, “it is the cream you told me about.” I could not believe my ears that I was getting all the credit for introducing her to this wonderful organic skincare line I discovered about 10 years ago called Savor Beauty. I was excited to think that my skin may look like hers when I am her age since I use the line religiously twice a day. It truly is an amazing line and I think it works!

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Facials

Why Facials?

Facials are basically beauty treatments for your skin, which involve multiple steps.  They are normally done with the help of a skin or beauty expert at a spa or beauty salon, or by hiring a professional at home. However, facials often involve specifically designed washes, masks, and lotions. Sometimes, technological devices that improve your skin can be also used. So it’s best to have them applied at a parlor. Facials are beneficial for all skin types, and particularly for people who are experiencing skin problems (such as acne or signs of aging). In general, a facial should be done at least four times a year, as each season changes. However, the best plan is to clear time and get a facial once each month. That way, when your new skin cells have been generated, the dead cells can be exfoliated.

Facials have become exceedingly popular, as more people realize the health benefits they have to offer.

To learn more about these scientifically proven benefits, read on.

Five Ways to Appreciate You

It is that time of year where we give thanks and show gratitude to those around us.  But there is one person we often leave out, ourselves. This year let Primp help you show a little appreciation for your own body. 

Here are five ways you can take care of you:

1.  Fitness. You have heard the benefits of staying fit -  it reduces your chances for injuries, slows the aging process, delivers oxygen to your outer extremities and reduces stress levels. And while our intentions are good we often start fitness programs that we do not see through. Fact is we are all different and finding a program that is right for you is critical. Even just one visit with a qualified personal trainer can help you create a program that works for you which in turn might help keep you working out.

2. Nutrition. There are so many articles and opinions on nutrition it is hard to know what to do.  Seeing a nutritionist can help you make sense of it but in lieu of that, there are few things that most nutritionists agree on. Shop the perimeter of the food market as that is where the fresh meat and produce are available. Eat healthy snacks in between meals to avoid ravenous hunger. Drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day.  Your skin, mood, body and soul will thank you for honoring them with nutrients they need.

3.  Body Massage.  It is no secret that massage therapy hosts a long list of health benefits.  A body massage can help ease muscle and back pain, enhance immunities, improve skin condition, lessen depression and anxiety, increase joint flexibility, lower blood pressure, lower stress hormones and increase feel good hormones.  It is one hour of goodness that can last you for days.

4.  Skincare.   “Invest in your skin. It is going to represent you for a long time” – Linden Tyler.  A combination of simple daily care and a monthly facial can do wonders for you skin. It will keep it clean, clear and help it to retain hydration. It will keep your pores clean deep down, and additionally actually make them smaller. It can also help diminish the signs of aging. So take a little time and make sure you’re putting your best face forward.

5.  Manicures and Pedicures.  There is maybe no part of our bodies that needs to be thanked more than our hands and feet. Routine manicures and pedicures are a healthy habit that will prevent hangnails, promote nail growth, improves health and texture of nails and will keep cuticles well moisturized.  Some people are surprised by this but fact is when you feel good about your hands and feet, it boosts your overall confidence as well.

There is your five. We hope you find the time for you this holiday season and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Think Pink

Primp loves PINK, but in October, it has far greater meaning!! October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual health campaign organized by major breast cancer charities to increase awareness and to raise funds for research. It also reminds women to be "breast cancer aware" for early detection.

About 1 in 8 U.S. women (about 12%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime.  Besides skin cancer, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women.  Fortunately, breast cancer is highly treatable.  Early detection is the key to greatly improving your chances of surviving breast cancer.  So please, remember to book your annual screening today!

The Internet is full of wonderful resources about breast cancer.  Here are some links:

Breast Cancer Statistics:

http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailedguide/breast-cancer-survival-by-stage

http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/understand_bc/statistics

Screening and Detection Advice:

http://ww5.komen.org/breastcancer/earlydetectionampscreening.html

http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/testin

Breast Cancer Foundation Sites:

http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/

http://ww5.komen.org/

http://www.breastcancer.org/

Primp In Home Steps up for Fashion Week

Fashion Week in New York (FWNY) is always a very busy and exciting time for us!  This year one of our events was at the TRESemme Pop Up Salon in the Meatpacking District.  Having access to the inside line during such a high profile week is something we are so proud of!

At this event we brought a team of our amazing hair stylists to show off their skills to guests of Fashion Week.  Traveling with our hair styling tools is nothing new, so we showed up ready to go! 

During the week's festivities we provided blow-outs, up-does, curls, waves and touch ups to many of the events guests.  Everyone who left looked stunning!

Thanks TRESemme, and we look forward to next year!

Staying Fit in the Heat of Summer

With the end of summer approaching its easy to dream about the cooler temperatures of fall and the autumn activities that are just around the corner.  But don't run out of the house for your workout without a water bottle and sunscreen just yet!  Here are a few important reminders to keep you fit and cool for the remainder of summer.

1.  Pick a shady spot.  If your workout involves stationary activities like push ups or bench jumps, find a spot in the shade.  While running or biking will inevitably have you in the sun, take advantage of any breaks you can away from the harmful rays.  You will stay cool and be able to keep your workout on track.

2.  Know when to say when.  Some days are just too hot, and even though your regular workouts are important, don't risk over doing it.  Everyone has a different level of comfort in the heat and depending on the intensity of your workout, it's easy to over do it.  If you feel dizzy or nauseous or begin to get a headache, you should hydrate, cool down and seek medical help if necessary.

3.  Don't forget your water bottle.  It may seem obvious to those who work out regularly, but making sure to have plenty of water during your workout is critical.  A nice trick is to fill part of your container with ice so you've got an extra cool drink for a long time.

4.  Shorter days means less time for outdoor activity.  With summer waning, it's tempting to move workouts to an earlier part of the day to take advantage of the daylight.  But be careful not to get caught in temperatures that are higher than you expected.

Don't forget that summer temperatures are still with us even though Fall is around the corner.  Staying fit will have you feeling great and ready for all the fun of Autumn.

Summer Fun in the Sun

With the weather heating up and lots of fun summertime activities around the corner, be sure to have a good skin care routine.  Protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun can have lasting benefits.

1.  Always wear a high quality sunscreen.  Even if you use a foundation or powder, make sure your first layer is at least an SPF 30 moisturizer. 

2.  Sunscreen has an expiration date, so be sure to keep it fresh and check that your current product is still offering the protection you need.

3.  Moisturizer is key.  Skin tends to be more dry when spending time in the sun, so protect your skin with daily moisturizer.  A nice trick is to carry a small sample size bottle in your bag for reapplications throughout the day.

4.  Cover up when you can.  Bring a light sweater or wide brimmed hat to the beach to provide some helpful shade.  These items provide great protection from the sun and offer a nice break for your skin.

5.  If you did get too much sun, take care of any burns with specialty sunburn products as soon as possible.  Natural aloe is a great source of relief and is found in many over the counter products.

Tips for your Tips!

The peak season for manicures and pedicures is around the corner.  When getting your nails done, it is important to follow care procedures in and out of the salon.  Here are a few recommended guidelines for more beautiful, healthy nails.

• Keep your Cuticles!! It may seem strange to ask your manicurist to not cut your cuticles, but many expert dermatologists advise against removing them.  Cuticles are natural barriers to fungus and bacteria.  If cut, you will risk exposing fingers to infection.  Pushing cuticles back is your best option, so make sure your service provider knows to do this once he or she begins.  
• Studies have shown that vitamin B7, also known as biotin, prevents brittle nails and increases nail thickness.  Foods such as green peas, oats, soybeans, walnuts, brown rice, and sunflower seeds are rich in B7.  
• Avoid harsh chemicals like acetone based polish remover.  Acetone strips nails, causing them to become brittle.  Nail polish with formaldehyde and toluene are also toxic for nails.
• Moisturize your nails with petroleum jelly, cuticle cream, or vitamin E oil. 
• Avoid Nail hardeners. Many of these products are not proven to strengthen nails and, in fact, have been shown to cause more damage than good. 
• Make sure your nail salon follows standard protocols for disinfecting tools and chairs.  Good technicians always take tools out of disinfectant jars, as opposed to drawers.  

Winter Hair Care

The winter months make the days much colder, putting your luscious locks in more vulnerable situations.  Here are some Primp Tips that you can use to protect your hair from cold weather damage.

• One word: static.  Always condition your hair with a deep conditioner every time you shampoo. 

• Always bring a hat to cover your hair from wind, rain, and snow.  No one wants the “dreaded hat hair,” so we recommend wrapping your hair in a silk scarf before putting that cozy beanie on.  

• If you can, skip a day of shampooing (even two). Your hair is less prone to drying out of you shampoo 3 or 4 times a week than if you do it daily.

• Make sure your hair is dry before you step outside.  Moisture in your hair combined with the cold air will add further damage to your hair by freezing it and causing breakage.

• Trim your hair every 6-8 weeks to reduce the chance of dry, split ends. 

• Use natural bristles.  Brushes with natural bristles help redistribute oils from the scalp to the rest of the hair and also conduct less static than plastic brushes and combs. 

• It may be tempting when it is cold, but soaking in hot water does damage to your hair.  Hot water dries out the hair so we suggest cool or warm water when bathing.

• Limit the use of blow dryers and curling irons. If you must use them, try using a leave-in conditioner first. Diffuse it on low heat, concentrating on the roots. The less you deal with styling tools, the better off you will be.

• Avoid spraying perfume in hair and pay attention to the alcohol content in hair products, such as hairspray.  These chemicals tend to dry hair out and leave strands brittle.

• Hydration Your hair needs it too/  Using a humidifier adds moisture to the to the air—air that is typically dry due to indoor heaters.

Winter Skin Care: Love Thy Face

“Love your face” is what my sisters and I would say to each other when buying skincare products, especially in the cold, dry, winter months.  The cold-dry air takes away a thin layer of oil that traps moisture in the skin.  So, here are some simple tips we put together to keep your skin healthy and happy during the frosty  months.

1.  Moisturize, moisturize…. and then MOISTURIZE.  Up your daily routine for all over moisturizing.

2.  Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.  Without proper H20, skin turns dry, tight, and flakey, making it less resident and more prone to wrinkling.  It is recommended that you consume 8 glasses of water a day.  Remember, your skin is the largest organ of the human body.  

3.  Take lukewarm showers/baths and reduce your soaking time.  Hot showers and baths will strip your skin’s moisture.  

4.  Use gentle skin cleansers and avoid harsh scrubs.  Moisturizing post bath while  the skin is still damp will maximize absorption into your skin.

5.  Avoid harsh face peels, scrubs, masks, and astringents that are alcohol based.  Gentler skin products do less damage and won’t dry out your skin the way harsh products do.

6.  Remember your sun block!  During cold months, people are more prone to windburn.  Windburn is, ironically caused by the SUN.  Apply sun block daily; this should be part of your skin care routine year-round.

7.  Dress appropriately for the winter with thick scarves and hats.  Wear comfortable, loose fitting garments made of breathable cotton fabric.  Avoid harsh wools or polyesters directly on your skin that can cause chaffing of the skin.  

8.  Mind your hands.  The skin on your hands is thinner than other parts of the body and has less oil glands, making your hands more susceptible to winter drying.  So, not only should you wear gloves, but you should have hand lotion with you at all times.

9.  Remember to exercise. Exercise has a lot of benefits including reducing stress, which causes eczema flare-ups.  Exercise is not only good for stress relief, but is obviously good for the body. Working out comes in various forms including yoga, ice skating, or running.  Everyone’s routine is different; it is important to keep strong and have fun at the same time.

10. Get spa treatments.  Seriously—this may be a shameless plug but it is important to PRIMP!  Getting a manicure, massage, or facial keeps the body vibrant and promotes wellness all year round, especially when we are trying to fight the winter blues.