Uspa: Made in the Pure Australian Environment

Essential Oils in Uspa

2012-02-11T15:24:00.000-08:00

There is no question that Uspa would not exist and thrive in over ten countries if the products did not perform with use, and luckily we have twelve years of client testimonials and science to back this up. Interestingly, when asking a group of our dedicated fans 'what is their favorite thing about Uspa', they often respond with comments like 'the gorgeous aromas', 'the beautiful way it makes them feel', or the 'sensory experience' the range provides. (See our Facebook page for more). My next door neighbour had a Uspa Concept Facial at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs last week. I asked her how her skin felt, she said she had no idea it could feel that soft again. When I asked her about the actual facial itself, she said without skipping a beat, she felt 'loved'. We can't ask for better feedback for a Uspa treatment, and thank you to the therapists that devote themselves to providing the Uspa experience as it was meant to be shared. At the end of the day, Uspa has to outperform other brands on levels of both results and the pleasure one gets from using the products to thrive in today’s competitive climate of botanical skin, body and haircare.

While results driven and cutting edge ingredients abound in Uspa, one group of ingredients continues to set us apart while other brands in the same field find substitutions that create a more profitable bottom line: essential oils. Essential Oils (EO) provide a two-fold benefit in our skin, body and haircare and are at least partly responsible for the emotional responses or feelings of well being that come from breathing in the aromas.

Uspa has always included advanced ingredients and botanical extracts at their maximum potential for performance, but we’ve also included essential oils at higher concentrations than most to harness their renowned therapeutic benefits. Formulators and chemists over the years have suggested Uspa founder George Jilly compromise on this ingredient to improve the bottom line, but he remains steadfast to their use in therapeutic quantities for the benefits not only for the skin, but for the body/mind - the psyche and the physiology.

Uspa has been highly successful in global markets because of our commitment to using only the purest quality essential oils in all of our products - discerning noses know. George Jilly has been inspired by the historical use of essential oils to heal, certainly predating by hundreds of years western medicines we currently rely on. "While true rose essential oil can actually lower the blood pressure and calm the system when breathed in, a synthetic fragrance cannot duplicate this effect," says George. Though labs have tried for years, they have never successfully been able to create a viable synthetic rose that comes near the complex aroma of true rose, much less providing the benefits the botanical provides. (See our previous blog on our Damask Rose Hydrosol for more). According to George, a Uspa product should not only improve the skin or hair through its use, it should provide a positive and memorable aromatic experience for the person using the product. This is the crux of what makes Uspa a holistic range - the effect on the body as a whole.

The reaction one has to authentic aromatherapy is a subjective experience - one person resonates with a grounding earthy blend while another comes alive when breathing in a more spicy blend. The goal for the use of EOs in Uspa products then becomes multi-faceted...how to create a product that provides a prescriptive benefit for the skin and is most pleasing to most of the people, most of the time. Fortunately, the aroma acts in synergy with the goal for the skin or hair automatically in most cases, so someone with dry skin naturally responds favorably to a product with essential oils that treat dry skin, such as jasmine, rose, or neroli, while someone with oily skin or problematic skin likely responds to aromas that benefit these conditions such as juniper, sandalwood, or lime.

Uspa strongly focuses on teaching the dynamics of this synergistic experience: essential oils resonate and balance the mind through aromatherapy when breathed in, and balance the skin and body when applied and absorbed. Therapists are taught to cue the client with subtle breathwork throughout the Uspa treatments to make the most of the experience and the benefits of the ingredients, even if they are receiving a highly active facial. We stress that these two dynamics are not mutually exclusive. In other words, to enjoy an aromatic experience does not mean the product does not work as well as a clinical grade product, nor does being a results driven product mean it does not have a profound effect on the body/mind when inhaling its signature aroma. Therapists begin to overcome being single minded in their approach (either it works, or it provides an experience) to embrace what they have learned about the synergy of both - a product with powerful botanical ingredients that is working on the skin to bring about positive change can also be subtly balancing the mind and body in ways only essential oils have the power to do.

We are happy to say, we have never compromised on the Uspa experience we endeavor to provide through the use of Essential Oils. Enjoy the sensory journey, and don’t forget to breathe.

Silence @ Midday

2011-12-02T11:46:00.000-08:00

If you visit the Uspa website, you will land on the serene image of a rock landscape evocative of the purity of the Australian environment. The landscape comes to Uspa through award winning photographer Jacqui Henshaw, a longtime friend of Uspa founders George and Vanessa Jilly. Jacqui spent time in the Granite Hills area creating a series of landscapes known as Silence @ Midday. We chose this particular landscape for the serenity it relays, as well as the reflection of the ruggedness and untouched land that comes to mind for Australia. Jacqui says of the pieces, "the image expresses the amazing intensity of the Australian heat, that midday sun bearing down on you. The image is crisp and the silence is pure as no one is usually out in this heat."

This sentiment resonates with Uspa as it reminds us why the plants are so unique in this harsh environment. Uspa relies on the chemistry of natural plant defenses against harsh sun, wind, and other aggressors such as disease. By utilising the unique properties found in plants to thrive in harsh climates, we can improve the function and appearance of the skin by making products that fight aggressors from UV damage to inflammation. Harnessing these properties in our products is fundamental to utilising botanicals in skincare.

Jacqui captured this signature image, along with others, in the heart of Victoria, Australia at Granite Hills near Lancefield, between Melbourne and Bendigo. The area is known for its beautiful scenery and wineries that thrive in this climate, including Granite Hills, Curly Flat, Lane's End and Heathcote cellar doors. The terrain is home to Australia's highest and most picturesque vineyards, perched atop the boulder strewn hills of the Great Dividing Range. Budburst is a yearly festival that celebrates the first buds on the vine in November and is well worth the drive to support the tradition. There are many attractions and locations that offer spas, luxury country accommodations, historical exploration with tours and recreation throughout the area.

We hope you enjoy this back story to the image that has come to represent our philosophy of products made in the Pure Australian Environment. Uspa is actively engaged in protecting the pristine climate that has made Australia one of the most favoured places to live and one of the most sought after resources for skin and haircare products in the world.

To view more of Jacqui's work or to contact her directly, please visit her website at www.jkhenshaw.com.

To visit the area, visit this link to Lancefield: LINK.

Inspired Luxury: Nádur Spa in Ireland Creates Synergy with the Uspa Experience

2011-09-30T11:05:00.000-07:00

Natural Beauty at Nádur Spa, Ballygarry House, Tralee, Co Kerry, Ireland

Nestled in the foothills of the Kerry Mountains and set in beautiful landscaped gardens, Nádur Spa is the epitome of serenity and natural beauty. Whatever treatment you decide to treat yourself to, you can guarantee that it will be relaxing and restful. Nádur Spa is all about luxury – the luxury of time and the luxury of being cared. Whether you visit us for an hour or a day you will receive and enjoy indulgent treatments that leave you feeling renewed and revitalised.

Our Philosophy

Gina Groves has been manager of the spa since it opened in 2006. She comments “The true essence of Nádur lies in its name, the Irish for nature. Everyone deserves a little bit of time out amidst the busy demands of everyday life; time to reflect, time to relax and more importantly, time to yourself”.

“We decided to search for a suitable product line as soon as we knew the concept of our spa. We concentrated on sourcing a spa product range that was compatible to our philosophy and vision for Nádur. As the focus on our spa is based on healing, relaxing and in the rejuvenation of nature, Uspa fulfilled all our criteria so it was a natural choice”.

A Good Relationship

L-R: Miriam McGillicuty (marketing), Gina Groves (spa manager) , Padraig McGillicuddy (GM), George Jilly (Uspa)

Renaissance Products based in Dublin, form the gel that binds Nádur Spa and Uspa Australia together. From an early stage in the project Renaissance Products and Nádur worked closely to form Uspa’s first concept spa in Ireland.

George Jilly and his wife Vanessa made the long journey over from Melbourne Australia to attend the launch of Nádur Spa in 2006. Padraig McGillicuddy, the General Manager of the hotel comments “Spa owners will stress the importance of a good relationship between a beauty business and its suppliers. It relies on mutual respect and shared beliefs in the concept of the brand. Renaissance and Uspa have always been a pleasure to deal with and are fully committed to the success of Nádur Spa”.

Nádur Spa Treatments

Our Uspa treatments offer our spa guests skincare using the purest botanical extracts and essential oils. Treatments are strictly hands-on, results driven and one of the most relaxing experiences you’ll ever have.

Each Uspa body and face treatment are all unique in its own way, tailor made to suit each individual's skin type.

If you’re a mother-to-be, Nádur offers specific maternity treatments for expectant mothers that are safe and hugely beneficial during pregnancy. Pre-blended Uspa oils containing tangerine and rose help prevent stretch marks and hydrate the skin.

Nádur Spa isn’t just for ladies. It offers spectacular Uspa face and body treatments for men also.

Linda Murphy, Uspa therapist of the year 2010, says “I’m very passionate about the Uspa products. It offers a full range of products but in a compact line. I like the way it’s a pampering product but also results driven. It’s vital as a therapist to be able to stand over a product when recommending it to our spa guests and I have no hesitation in advocating Uspa”

Testimonials ( your words, not ours ! )

“An exceptional experience. My therapist had a gentle manner which allowed for a very relaxing influence on my Uspa Face Ritual”

“Warm massage oils, tranquil atmosphere, superb products, I love it all”

“I just had a Uspa Coffee & Sea Kelp Body Wrap. This is a heavenly treatment, smelled amazing and included a mini facial which was a lovely surprise”

“The Uspa Facial and Massage were definitely the best treatments that I have ever had.

I bought the Uspa Pure C Serum and the difference that this product has made on my skin in such a short time is worth every cent”

Fantastic treatments, experienced therapists and a warm welcome all await you at Nádur Spa.

Nádur Spa

Ballygarry House Hotel

Killarney Road

Tralee

Co Kerry

Ireland

Tel: 00353 66 7144560

Email: spa@ballygarryhouse.com

Website: www.ballygarryhouse.com

Uspa Haircare: Two Inspired Ranges

2011-08-29T12:57:00.000-07:00

Inspired by authentic global rituals and ingredients, Uspa has been devoted for more than 15 years to developing the brand based on the remarkable chemistry of plants, herbs and essential oils.

Dedication to a holistic approach by utilizing botanicals to bring about positive change transcends skincare and haircare, creating benefits for the psyche as well as the physiology.

Uspa offers two unique hair care ranges that evolved from different inspirations: Uhaircare and Supernatural, each grown from the Uspa philosophy of creating the best products from the purest ingredients on the planet.

Uhaircare: Harnessing the Wisdom of Ancient Cultures

Uhaircare is the evolution of innovative, results driven products that provide simple solutions for different hair types. An extension of the Uspa experience of caring for the skin and body, Uhaircare's clean classic packaging reflects the spa experience that helped evolve the range.

Inspired by many global cultures whose indigenous plants have provided healing properties for centuries, Uhaircare utilises these ‘village pharmacy’ botanical extracts to repair, nourish, and protect the hair. The aromas evoke these healing properties and create an experience that becomes a ritual. The aroma of essential oils can relax, soothe, or uplift according to their nature.

Ancient healing plants now proven to have benefits for the hair and scalp are the basis for the range. Uhaircare provides a natural alternative that goes a step further encouraging a balance in the scalp, allowing for healthier hair to emerge.

The Uhaircare range is streamlined and effective, a perfect extension of caring for the body as a whole. Uhaircare has no added fragrance or colour. Pure plant extracts alone provide create the aromas and sensory journey to be enjoyed with each use. We utilise anti-ageing properties in the form of botanically dervied sun filters and anti-oxidants to maintain healthy hair.

Uhaircare Product Overview
Hair Cleansers, Conditioners, and Styling products work with minimal effort to create manageable healthy hair. Highly concentrated, only small amounts are needed for results.

Irish Moss, Neem Seed, and Native Mint form the foundation for hair cleansers and conditioners. Restorative china bark to repair, and natural ingredients to create style, like honey and beeswax, carrot seed and jojoba oils, and rich shea butter enhance the line.

Aromas from around the world include cinnamon, frangipani, ylang ylang, and patchouli ... citrus from tahiti, native mint, and uplifting jasmine, all blended by our chemist to create a physiological response and bring about well being.

Supernatural: Blending Functionality, the Science of Nature, and Award Winning Packaging.

The Uspa Supernatural range utilises the very latest sophisticated technologies to harness the benefits of pure plant extracts.

Focusing on the quantifiable proactive nature of botanical ingredients that work harmoniously to provide superior results, the Supernatural range provides sulphate free solutions to modern hair care demands. The formulas are as good for your hair as they are safe for the earth. Using only the purest non-GMO ingredients we can find, the globally sourced range is made in the Pure Australian Environment. No synthetic colour or fragrance are added, and only pure essential oils and plant extracts create the signature aromas.

With a signature cleansing formula made according to the principles of green chemistry, the full range of cleansers, conditioners, reparative masks, and styling products offers an earth friendly lifestyle choice.

Supernatural Product Overview
With the salon in mind, we have brought functional products to the hands of the stylist like no others, harnessing the unique nature of botanicals including marshmallow gum, wheatgrass blends, softening vegetable amino acids, fortifying sugar proteins, and unique lipid blends to leave the hair repaired and resilient. With shampoos, conditioners, treatments, and styling products to fulfil all the needs of a salon service and at home care. The benefits of the applied research in the products include a cumulative effect for restoring health and resilience to the hair while extending the life of the salon service.

The original award winning modern bottle designs were created uniquely for Uspa Supernatural ... the inspiration being nature, the form of a tree and its branches creating the shapes that ultimately became the Supernatural bottle.

The Supernatural range continues to win recognition as it is introduced globally, with awards for best styling, shampoos and conditioners.

To see individual products from either range, please visit our website at www.uspa.com.au. To view Uspa representative Monica creating styles with the range of products, join us on our Facebook page and visit the Uchannel. Facebook Link.

We hope you enjoy, and as always, we look forward to any questions.

A Modern Healing Phytochemical Found in the "Tree of Life"

2011-08-14T09:54:00.000-07:00

Olive Leaf Extract: The Rediscovery of an Ancient Substance

While the ripe fruit of the olive tree yields a very important commercial product with many health benefits, olive leaves provide the sought after herbal medicine found in the polyphenol compound known as Oleuropein. The leaves are packed with natural antioxidants including flavonoids. The most abundant active oleuropein provides strong antioxidant, anti-fungal and antibacterial activity, only recently confirmed by medical science. A liquid extract made directly from fresh olive leaves gained attention when it was shown to have antioxidant capacity almost double green tea extract and 400% higher than vitamin C. (1)

Ancient Remedies and Myths

Native to the Mediterranean basin and parts of Asia Minor, the olive tree’s fruit and leaves have been used for thousands of years for healing purposes. The Bible refers to the olive tree as the “tree of life”, thought to be attributed to its medicinal properties (Ezekekiel 47:12). Hippocrates used olive leaves for wound healing, Homer referred to olive oil as 'liquid gold', while the Egyptians recognized the olive leaf as a symbol of heavenly power, using the extracted oil to mummify their kings. Ancient people in many cultures recognized the value of the tree in healing, including Greeks who used the oil for massage and to maintain their skin's moisture. The first formal medical documentation describing its use can be found around 1850, when it was often used to counteract malaria. Poultices were also made of the leaves to treat boils, rashes, warts and other skin problems.

More recently, Italian researchers found the extract has the capacity to lower blood pressure, and European researchers confirmed this, adding the benefits of increasing blood flow in the coronary arteries, relieving arrhythmias and preventing intestinal muscle spasms. A Dutch researcher then determined the active ingredient in Oleuropein to be elenolic acid, which has been shown to strengthen the immune system.

Modern Herbal Medicine Uses

Olive Leaf Extract (OLE) has recently been studied extensively, confirming its healing powers. Some of the more common health complaints the extract has been reported to improve include:

enhance the immune system
increase energy
internal cleansing action
anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-parasitic
lowers blood pressure, fats, and reduces blood sugar

In Australia, the extract is found in liquid supplement form in most health food shops and is sold extensively for its health benefits. The bitter liquid is tempered with a good dose of mint to make it more user friendly. The anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-parasitic properties alone make it useful in treating a host of complaints, from yeast and fungus overgrowth (athlete’s foot, etc) to retro-viruses, with other unexpected benefits reported such as toothache relief, diminished cravings and more. Unlike synthetic antibiotics and medicines, oleuropein is a natural wide spectrum phytochemical that destroys only the bad bacteria and protects the good. OLE is now commonly used to combat colds, flu, viruses, and bacterias and to increase energy.

Oleuropein Benefits for the Skin

Women including Aphrodite and Cleopatra have used olive oil for centuries to nourish and soften the skin as well as for the aforementioned poultices for healing. Through modern research we now know there are many exciting benefits for the skin when applying oleuropein topically.

Researchers from the University of Pavia in Italy tested the ability of oleuropein to protect the skin from exposure to UVB, the rays of the sun that cause a burn. The results showed a marked benefit to protect the cells when a topical preparation containing OLE is applied post exposure, including significantly reduced redness and transepidermal water loss. This effect speaks to the extracts anti-inflammatory properties, creating a natural remedy for sun exposure and dehydration in the skin.

The other highly useful compound found in the extract is hydroxytyrosol, found to be useful in combating an increase in pigmentation from UV damage. Publications show that hydroxytyrosol protects human melanocytes in vitro from protein damage and reduces the release of inflammation inhibitors like Cox-2 in macrophages. Further research has shown the extract increases turgor (the ability of the skin to bounce back) and elasticity in the skin in significant measure.

Combining the extract's properties for photo-scavenging, reducing inflammation, and increasing hydration and elasticity creates the perfect natural topical remedy for the signs of ageing caused by sun damage.

Uspa’s Hydration Therapy Cream with Olive Leaf Extract

Uspa has harnessed this beneficial extract in our Hydration Therapy Cream to provide maximum anti-ageing benefits for the skin. This lightweight cream is recommended for all skin types also experiencing dehydration (the 'crepe' effect in the skin, which can be in dry or oily skin types) and the effects of sun damage, including loss of elasticity and sun spots or pigmentation. Those experiencing acne and dehydration benefit from the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of the product.

Key Ingredients: Hydration Therapy Cream is infused with our OLE and other botanicals to create regenerative and healing synergy:

Jojoba Seed Oil (simmondsia chinensis): lightweight botanical oil (actually a wax ester, which is closer to what we have on our skin) that matches the sebum in our own skin, providing moisturisation without residue; balances oil production in the skin. Rich in natural micro-elements and nutrients such as zinc, copper, silicon, iodine, chromium, Vitamins E and B, acids and other beneficial ingredients. It has antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturising and soothing properties, making it a skin favourite for centuries.

Vegetable Glycerin: this pure resourced botanical emollient is present in all natural lipids, including our own skin; known to increase the skin’s own natural protection by filling in the intercellular matrix and creating balance in the water in this matrix; may also help other lipids function more properly.

Essential Oils of Neroli, Lavender and Rose Flower: uplifting light aroma with essential oils that assist in balancing hydration in the skin’s cells.

Benefits of Hydration Therapy Cream with Olive Leaf Extract include:

increase in hydration in the epidermis, eliminating ‘crepe-like’ skin
increase in elasticity and turgor in the skin
powerful antioxidants to counteract free radicals
reduction in age/sun spots with photo-scavenging and hydroxytyrosol benefits
antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties
benefits of polyphenols and flavonoids
lightweight application that absorbs completely

Unique Application

The formula utilizes a specific emulsion known as tri-phase, or water-in oil-in water (‘WOW’) to allow for maximum absorption. The WOW emulsion creates a very unique experience when applying... you will notice that it quickly absorbs into the skin leaving a matte finish. To best take advantage of this application, apply a small amount to the fingertips and smooth over the face - avoid rubbing the product between your palms as it will quickly absorb into your hands! You may apply over your Aloe Hydrant Gel for the synergy of Green Tea and increased slip. The matte finish achieved is perfect for applying makeup during the day or for those with oily skin that prefer no residue. Follow with a few drops of your Uspa Elixir if you feel you need a richer application. For best results, our chemist advises applying to ‘dry’ skin, meaning 'not wet'.

You should see results in a week or sooner for dehydration, and about 30 days for pigmentation fading. This works best when you are diligent about your sun care as well. If you love the results for you complexion and skin condition, you'll also find these amazing results for your hands in Uspa's Lavender Hand and Body Cream with Olive Leaf Extract.

Questions about our product or ingredients? Feel free to contact us!
brooke@uspa.com.au

In Australia and want to try this product? See our website at www.uspa.com.au.
See our links to the side of this page to find a distributor in your area or email us for details.

(1) Dr Stevenson, L,. et al. Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) Report on Olive Leaf Australia's Olive Leaf Extracts, Southern Cross University, 2005.

August is National Hair Loss Awareness Month

2011-08-01T11:49:00.000-07:00

A New Phenomenon: Hair Loss in Younger Generations

Traditionally an issue for men and women in their 50s or older, hair thinning and loss is becoming a challenge for those as young as 20 and 30 years of age. Increased stress in daily life, less time to exercise, lack of proper diet or medications can increase the potential for thinning and hair loss regardless of age. Current trends in styling and processing, crash dieting, and product choices that create inflammation can worsen the situation. Also, as we age, the individual strands naturally become thinner which can make the hair feel like it has less volume. As the phenomenon is on the rise, the Academy of Dermatology in the US has designated August as National Hair Loss Awareness month.

Normal daily hair loss comes through daily activities such as washing, combing and brushing, and should not be of concern. If you're seeing what you feel is an increase in loss or noticing thinning areas, you may want to take action to ensure your hair and scalp are healthy to reduce undue thinning. Read more on normal versus excessive hair loss here.

Uspa recommends these tips to keep your hair and scalp healthy to prevent unnecessary hair thinning or loss.

1. Find a good stylist that can cut your hair in a flattering style so it looks good with minimal effort. You shouldn't have a one hour battle with hot tools and a myriad of products in the morning to look your best. One styling product and maybe a finishing product should do. Also, don't restrict scalp circulation with tight bands and ponytails every day. If you have to have a band to keep your mane in control, look to your stylist to give you a cut that is easier to maintain.

2. Choose Uspa products that suit your hair type and scalp condition for best results. You're much less likely to have healthy hair if your scalp has imbalances, being too dry or too oily. Uspa Supernatural shampoos help remove product build-up so your treatments or serums work better, while providing soothing, balancing and anti-inflammtory properties for the scalp.

3. Find time to reduce stress with breath work, yoga or whatever form of meditation and exercise works for you. Increased circulation will help the overall health of the skin, including the scalp. Be mindful of your posture throughout the day to maintain better circulation, and get up and walk around often if you have a desk job, spending a few minutes leaning forward to touch your toes.

4. Use appliances with care. Put attachments on your dryer to avoid overheating hair and scalp. Keep flat irons moving over sections, and only go over strands a time or two. Use a wide tooth comb on fragile wet hair to avoid breakage, and protect strands from the sun to avoid brittle hair that snaps easily.

5. Give your hair a rest with days of going 'au natural' by applying a Uspa pomade or cream to keep it smooth and prevent fly-aways. The Supernatural Amplifying Gel with Sugar Protein relies on the same technology that creates thicker lashes to add volume to thin strands. Try one of these Supernatural products to bring out your natural style.

6. Treat yourself to a hair "spa experience." Gently massage the scalp with an essential oil blend in nourishing carrier oils to remove build-up and debris from the follicles and scalp. You can use what you have at home, from olive oil to almond oil, adding lavender or tea tree essential oils. Follow with Uspa shampoo, and condition only where needed from mid-lengths to ends, skipping the scalp. Uspa's Tangerine and Rose Dry Oil with camellia and macadamia oil is excellent for scalp massage, or try our Purifying Elixir as well.

7. Use massage moves throughout the day that release tension in the scalp to increase circulation - not your fingernails, which might cause irritation in the scalp. Place your palms flush to your scalp, and move the entire scalp in circles. Move your hands and repeat. Also great for relieving tension headaches! These techniques are used daily in India for generations to maintain healthy hair.

8. Check your diet. If you're not getting enough of certain vitamins through diet, add supplements. Look for Vitamin A for healthy sebum in the scalp (found in milk, cheese, eggs, spinach, broccoli), Vitamin C for antioxidants (citrus fruits, dark green veggies), Vitamin E for scalp circulation (cold pressed oils, raw seeds and nuts), Biotin to produce keratin and prevent hair loss (whole grains, egg yolks, rice, milk), Inositol keeps hair follicles healthy at the cellular level (whole grains, citrus, liver, brewer's yeast), and the B Vitamins: B3 for circulation (Niacin), B5 for preventing hair loss (Pantothenic Acid), B6 to prevent hair loss (whole grains, vegetables), and B12, also to prevent hair loss (chicken, fish, eggs, milk). A lot of the same foods for healthy skin encourage healthy hair. See foods that feed your skin in our recent blog.

9. See a professional if you are worried, and get a proper diagnosis to rule out hormonal issues or another medical condition or imbalance such as the thyroid or iron.

We know healthy skin and hair is reflective of a healthy body. Uspa hair care is a lifestyle choice that can enhance your efforts at maintaining a vibrant head of hair.

See a Uspa profession for your recommendations, or email us for a consultation here: My Personal Haircare Recommendation.

Uskincare Damask Rose Hydrosol

2011-07-28T12:02:00.000-07:00

One may live without bread, not without roses.

~Jean Richepin

Uspa recommends our top selling Damask Rose Hydrosol for men and women to soothe, add a burst of moisture, reduce redness and irritation, as well as tone the capillaries and balance pH in the skin. But not all rose water is created equal, and there's a lot more to a hydrosol than meets the nose!

Rose has been found in fossils dating back 35 million years and holds a long and colorful history as a symbol of love, beauty, and even war and politics. There are over 30,000 varieties of roses and it has the most complicated family tree of any known flower species. One can find historical references to roses from The War of the Roses, to the Roman Empire, Greek mythology, Hindu legend, Persian and Egyptian history, as well as attached to figures such as Cleopatra and Nero, to name a few. It is revered for its beauty and is thought of as indispensable in romance.

Rose has a long history for its valued use in the area of skincare. While it is beneficial for all skin types, including balancing oily skin, it is especially valuable for dry, sensitive and damaged skin types. Rose also offers a soothing property to the psyche by having an effect on the physiology of the body, slowing the heart rate when breathed in, and it is thought to assist with depression by boosting confidence, hope and mental strength. For all of rose’s significant benefits for the skin and body, synthetic rose has none. In fact, rose’s properties cannot be duplicated in a lab, only Mother Nature can provide this healing combination of hundreds of components.

By definition a hydrosol is made with organic plant material, in this case, fresh Damask Rose petals from Bulgaria. Rose petals are hand collected in the early morning hours while they are still full of dew to prevent evaporation of the essential oils. Handled gently to avoid bruising, the petals are laid out on cool concrete to slightly ferment, allowing for the fullest concentration available in the distillation process. The process of creating a hydrosol is a bi-product of extracting essential oils, which rise to the top through the process of distillation. The condensate water absorbs all of the therapeutic plant extracts and a portion of the essential oils which provide a sweet, yet earthy aroma. This rose water collection itself is not adulterated in any way, rather bottled in this form. True rose hydrosol will appear near clear in colour. Slight variations in colour may result from crop factors, such as drought, rain and seasonal effects. These variations can often be an indication that the hydrosol is natural and not man-made or synthetic and do not affect the product’s efficacy in any way. In more recent history, many synthetics were introduced to compensate for the cost of the large volume of petals needed to make a small amount of product. Buyer beware when purchasing ‘floral waters’, make sure yours is the real deal.

Uspa blends our hydrosol with Organic Gotu Kola to create synergy with the benefits of rose. Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica) is a profoundly healing extract native to India. Used for centuries for wound healing, science confirms Gotu Kola contains chemicals called triterpenoids. In lab studies, these compounds appear to help heal wounds. For example, some studies indicate that triterpenoids strengthen the skin, boost antioxidants in wounds, and increase blood supply to the area. Based on these findings, Gotu Kola has been used topically (applied to the skin) for minor burns, psoriasis, prevention of scar formation following surgery, and prevention or reduction of stretch marks.

Spritz a mist of Damask Rose Hydrosol after cleansing to treat the skin, to prevent redness post shave, to lightly set makeup, or throughout the day to soothe and hydrate. Uspa has clients who keep a small bottle in their car to refresh during a long drive or in the airport and throughout travels, mist to soothe after sun exposure, soothe and strengthen inflamed capillaries that are worse in hot weather or post workout, cool swollen and achy feet, balance the chakras, and even assist a mum throughout labor! The uses are endless, and we love to hear of a new ways this special product revitalises the skin and energy in our devoted clientele.

Do you have another use for Uspa’s Damask Rose Hydrosol? We’d love to hear from you!

Hair Care Session: Colour Treated Hair and Uspa

2011-06-20T20:43:00.000-07:00

People have been colouring their hair for centuries, from Romans using leeks and walnuts to get the dark strands they preferred, to Greeks using harsh ingredients to lighten their hair to the reddened colour that designated honour and courage, to ancient Egyptians using kohl and henna. Hydrogen peroxide came along in the 1800s to assist the process of lightening the hair, and Clairol began hair colouring in the 1930s, with home kits in the 50s. Today, somewhere between 65% and 75% of women have coloured their hair at some point, up from 7% in the 50s. Women now colour their hair as early as their 20s, more of a fashion statement than merely covering grey. Men are also colouring their hair more often, though mostly at home, creating a $113 million dollar business, up 50% in just five years!

With all of that chemical action going on, we suggest you consider the following tips from Uspa Educator Monica Ellery when caring for your own coloured strands. Monica has been a hair colour specialist and instructor for more than ten years, and currently advises Uspa and their clients on proper care of the hair using Uhaircare and Supernatural haircare.

"Hair that has been regularly treated with colour can often feel dry and rough, requiring extra care to prevent visible damage and fading. While there are more friendly colouring options available these days to minimise exposure to harsh chemicals, the hair still needs special care once coloured. Here are some tips to keep coloured hair soft and manageable while extending the life of the colour service.

First, make sure you always see a professional colourist to perform this service. They have advanced education in colour processing, and they will always give you advice on what is and isn’t achievable, which in the long run can save you from extensive damage and many trips to the hairdresser to fix home colour mishaps.

Uspa Supernatural Wheatgrass Range

Next, use professional products to protect colour pigment once treated to lengthen the life of your salon service and strengthen strands. Uspa's Wheatgrass Shampoo and Conditioner protect the strands from environmental exposure which can cause rapid fading of colour and damage strands, effectively ageing your hair. The Kashmir Moisturising range supports longer life of hair colour by increasing proteins in the hair that are often stripped by the colouring process. Protein assists the hair in maintaining strength to prevent breakage and frayed ends, as well as keeping hair soft and manageable. It should be noted that in either case, the results are cumulative - your hair will be in better shape in the long run the more you continue with the products. You might choose the Shampoo and Conditioner you prefer, and supplement with a serum or treatment from the complementary range for your needs. Your salon professional can help you choose products according to your hair condition and type.

I recommend using an intensive treatment once a week that is protein based to rebuild damage caused by the colouring process. The colouring process usually creates a 'lift' in the cuticle, which allows colour to absorb better, but also opens the hair up to damage, along with stripping vital proteins. An excellent choice is the China Rose Hair Reconstructor, a creamy mask with rich shea butter and coconut oil infused with botanical proteins. Another excellent option is the Kashmir Deep Moisturising Ceramide Treatment, which replenishes vital amino acids to keep hair strong and healthy. Apply to cleansed hair, leave in for five or more minutes and rinse with cool water.

Monica styles Emma's gorgeous red curls

We also need to consider protecting treated hair from environmental and heat damage. Use a multifunctional product that gives you thermal protection and UV protection all in one, or layer as needed to create your perfect style. Wheatgrass Solar Energy Leave-in Serum is a reparative lotion with jojoba oil and properties found in wheatgrass to protect strands from environmental damage and has light styling properties, especially brilliant to nourish and protect. Apply product to damp hair into midlenghts and ends and comb through with a wide tooth comb so it is evenly distributed, and style as usual.

Allow your hair to air dry as much as possible. Then, when blow drying hair, use medium heat to prevent scorching strands - use the attachments that come with the dryer to ensure you are not overheating the hair. When using your flat iron, keep the appliance moving down the hair shaft. Twice per section is usually enough- do not overdo it. Lastly, don’t forget to regularly maintain your haircut to prevent split ends which can undo the efforts of a great colour application.

Bio: Monica Ellery: Monica joined Uspa after searching for alternatives to reduce her exposure to chemicals in the workplace. She now advises Uspa clients on how to make the haircare products part of their lifestyle choice. Monica lives in Melbourne where she lives a well rounded life of working, surfing, yoga, and visiting local cellar doors for the best Australia has to offer. Let us know if you have a question for Monica about your hair care or a need a recommendation for Uspa products.

Feed Your Skin

2011-06-02T13:08:00.000-07:00

As summer rolls around on our side of the world, we have access to fresh local and organic foods that also provide a boost for the skin. Year round, there are foods you can eat weekly to keep your skin looking its best! Your skin reflects your inner health, so here's a reminder of what to look for, and why. Bon appetit!

Strawberries
Loaded with vitamin C, just five or so will provide you with your recommended daily intake, which not only enhances the immune system to ward off colds and cancer, but assists with keeping the skin clear. C is the great skin restorer, being vital for keeping the skin plump and smooth. The bright red of strawberries comes from anthocyanin, which protects cells and reduces inflammation. Strawberries also pack vitamin K, ellagic acid, and manganese. Strawberries keep the entire body young, protecting from age related disease.

Blend with a bit of balsamic vinegar for salad dressing, or toss them in a smoothie, layer with yogurt and other berries, toss them in your cereal, or just eat them whole by the handful.

Avocados
One of the most nutritious foods in the world! They are full of monounsaturated fats, fiber, vitamins A, B, D, and E, folic acid, beta carotene, lecithin, iron, niacin and the youth mineral potassium. The essential fatty acids support cell membranes for proper function, including maintaining moisture in the skin. Avocados are the number one source of beta-sitosterol, a substance that protects against cancer and can reduce cholesterol. Topically, avocado slips the barrier of the skin where sterolin content assists in reducing age spots and moisturises. (found in Uspa's Ultra Moisture Control Cream)

Make a healthy guacamole with yogurt, add chopped avo to dressings and salad, spread it on toast, add it to homemade salsa to top fish, or add it to a sandwich. Make a facial mask with any leftover!

Mangos and Carrots

Mangos have been cultivated in India for at least 4000 years and were described as 'sealed jars of honey.' The sweet bright orange flesh of both carrots and mango reveal the beta-carotene content, an anti-oxidant that converts to vitamin A in your body and switches on DNA that's in charge of producing new skin cells and shedding old ones. Mangos also contain vitamin C, which is necessary for collagen production, and are a good source for iron, potassium and magnesium. Carrots also boast the mineral silica and vitamin C and are known for assisting with improving night vision.

Add both to a salad, eat on their own, or create summer salsas to top fish. Carrots are the ultimate snack food that doesn't need a lot of prep work.

Spinach
Spinach, along with leafy greens like kale and watercress, are a great source of antioxidant rich vitamins A, C, E, and the mineral iron. Also rich in B vitamins to keep skin healthy. Overall the benefits will be warding off environmental damage and maintaining a healthy glow.

It is important to choose organic spinach to avoid pesticides. Have with fruit to combine with vitamin C for best absorption.

Sweet Potato
Part of the morning glory family, the sweet potato is packed with nutrition. The more orange, the more abundant in beta-carotene, highly beneficial for the skin as noted with mangos and carrots. The regular influx of new cells keeps the surface of your skin smooth and resilient. The beta-carotene also acts as a powerful anti-oxidant to mop up any DNA mutations that might lead to wrinkles. They are also high in vitamin C to support the immune system and the production of collagen.

Sweet potato fries are a favorite when baked with a little olive oil. Sprinkle with rosemary for even more flavor. Sweet potato soup is a winter staple, and you can add sweet potato and avocado to a veggie sandwich.

Probiotic Yogurt
Keeping your good bacteria ratio in check can assist in keeping the skin clear. Since your skin often reflects your overall health, an imbalance in your gut can show up on your face. Research shows a daily intake of probiotics can help eczema sufferers, as well as helping to clear some types of acne.

Choose yogurt with active bacteria and add berries, or make a salad dressing. An excellent alternative to dessert.

Green Tea
Green tea assists in reversing sun damage through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties by quenching free radicals and reducing inflammation. Green tea contains polyphenols, also called tannins, which can help protect the skin from the harmful effects of environmental stresses. Xanthenes of caffeine, bromine and theophylline suppress inflammation and irritation to reduce the effects of ageing for the skin and body. Overall, green tea is a cup of health for the whole body.

A few cups a day provide benefits for the skin and body. Try adding green tea to your regular tea as you become accustomed to the taste, or serve it iced with mint in the summer.

Whole Grains
Eating whole grains and fiber contributes to a healthy digestive system, which reflects in healthy skin as toxins are more readily removed from the body. Also high in iron and skin loving vitamin B. Make sure you are choosing whole grains for their benefits, as refined will not have the same results.

Nuts and Seeds
Nutritional powerhouses full of skin enhancing nutrients of vitamins A and E to protect the skin from environmental damage. Rich in good fats to keep your complexion smooth, healthy and balanced. Especially needed to prevent dry skin.

Try a handful of almonds, macadamia or walnuts, or toss sunflower or pumpkin seeds on your salad.

Want to See a New Client Again? Learn to Extend the Life of the Service.

2011-04-03T20:19:00.001-07:00

When we provide Uspa education, we endeavour to leave the new therapists excited so that they feel inspired to pass the experience on to their clients. This is the essence of a Uspa treatment - the experience through the hands of the professional. Towards the end of the class, we ask the same two critical questions of each group of newly trained therapists. These questions are serious food for thought, but also affect the bottom line, results for the client and their perception of their treatment. Here's one, we'll save the other for another time.

Q: What is the number one complaint a client has when leaving a spa service?

A wide variety of options might leap to mind: too loud, pressure of massage was wrong, aesthetician talked too much, late start or treatment cut short, I got cold, I got hot, it was loud, no results. Some will guess "they tried to sell me product." A study done on just this topic yielded a number one answer for this question. Results?

A: I didn't learn anything. YIKES!

A case in point close to home, Uspa founder George Jilly had a facial after a gorgeous well known spa with amazing staff was fully trained in Uspa. When I asked him how the facial went, thinking the outcome would be a reflection of our training, he seemed a bit underwhelmed. When I got to the bottom of the issue, it was that the therapist, whose service and touch was actually amazing, did not tell him anything about his skin or what he should be doing to improve his skin. The epic fail? Assuming he knew it all because of his position and wouldn't want to hear what they thought.

My dermatologist takes care of small broken blood vessels for me. Private label skin care sits at the check out, but in two years, no one has mentioned it to me. I pick it up, read ingredients, put it down. Nothing. I know I only use Uspa, but they don't know that. I do like to try other products now and then to see what's new.

My chiropractor has all kinds of interesting supplements and goodies at the reception, including product to apply for sore muscles. I'm there three times a week for months, there's no literature out, and not one word about the goods. I'm curious, and I tend to spend money on these things. Quite a bit if you ask my former naturopath in Australia. But I haven't asked. I figure if they were right for me, someone would have said something. Right? Maybe not, but it's not my style to interrupt a bunch of busy people to inquire what they are offering and why it's special when I can get my usual stuff elsewhere. They are very careful not to sell me anything, and it's working!

The wife of the owner of a Uspa distributor went for an amazing spa day for their anniversary a few years back. (We were looking at them to carry Uspa). The spa had a fabulous reputation, and I was excited to find out about her facial. I asked her about her treatment. Underwhelmed. Why? She had no idea what range they used, and they didn't recommend anything. And it was a beautiful service otherwise, but her feedback was she felt no reason or connection to go back.

This story has been repeated countless times, and I find it is even common in the higher end spas that are constantly in the press. I've visited the retail area at some top spas in Arizona with a list of products provided by the therapist, but no one working the area. I suppose they had very low expectations of someone leaving with product, which is what my group did - left without even a signature body product to remind us of the trip.

Not sharing what you know about the products and their benefits to extend the life of the spa service is not only a disservice to the client, it can literally undo a therapist's good work by leaving a 'blah' taste in the client's mouth. No one likes being "sold" something - you know the feeling, you don't feel a real connection with the therapist, as if they are not really present, going through the motions, and then tell you a laundry list of what to purchase. But not many clients will come out and tell you they had hoped you would teach them how to care for and improve their skin. They often just don't return.

My favourite way of giving advice comes from seasoned Uspa trainer Ashlee. She informs her clients, "if I were in charge of taking care of your skin, here's what I would be doing at home." Then she lays out the benefits of the products that will create positive change. And when she should see you again. Now I think she's professional, and I'm on the edge of my seat to learn what she thinks about my skin. After all, I want to look younger, and she's telling me how.

Your client might not buy everything you recommend, which is nothing personal, but at least they will come away with a new vision of what their skin can be and how to achieve this positive change. Otherwise, they will certainly be buying their skin, body and hair care somewhere else. That's a loss to you, the client, and the spa's bottom line.

2011-02-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

What is the "Uspa Experience?"

As a grassroots company without a 'conglomerate backed marketing machine', we are not inclined to pigeonhole ourselves into one or two lines to summarise "The Uspa Experience" though we're constantly asked by PR and press types to do so. One or two lines only seem to scratch the surface of the intention of a Uspa treatment - the synergy of so many elements coming together to provide you not only with the results you were after, but to restore you on levels you may not have even known needed attention.

As trained therapists, we know the products will impart their amazing benefits regardless. But slowing down, letting your hands be a conduit for relaxation by gently introducing new aromas and textures, allowing your own breath be a guide to exhale slowly and fully, palming the body for deep relaxation. It is these spaces created in between that capture the client by creating benefits beyond products all the way to the core. Think clients don't notice attention to these details? Check out the review from Great Day Spa Search below, and thanks to the Blogger for their comments, and the team at Immersion for their dedication. It's a bit more than two lines, but we feel it sums up what Uspa endeavours to offer.

Find this original review through the following link: http://greatspasearch.blogspot.com/2011/02/uspa-immersion-brighton.html

TUESDAY, 22 FEBRUARY 2011

Uspa Immersion, Brighton

Day Spa Review

Seasoned travellers are strange, eclectic beasts. That's because they are always experiencing and gathering new ways of living, new philosophies, not to mention food and clothing. George Jilly, the founder of Uspa has over 15 years of travel and spa experience in South East Asia, bringing this wealth of knowledge to craft a unique concept spa in Brighton, Victoria. Integrating a diverse range of organic aromatic products, healing practices and philosophies of life, Uspa offers an interesting twist on the standard spa services, as well as a range of award winning skin and haircare products, clothing and candles.

Walking into Uspa, you enter a contemporary chic reception showroom, with clean lines, muted neutral tones, wooden tables and floors, stone features and sculptural pieces. Here the natural is juxtaposed with the 'super-natural', such as recycled timber flooring adjacent to a metal sculptural stair structure that emulates a loose weave of sticks. The heightened sensory experience continued, finding all sorts of aromatic products for sale, candles, oils, hair and skincare, but also aromatic scarves, hand woven in India by craftspeople who would pound herbs and spices into the thread before weaving. Funky highly designed product packaging with understated labelling reminded me that I was in a polished contemporary concept store, with experiences packaged and ready for sale. This melange of old and new, East and West, science and nature was an underlying combination that I was to find throughout my experience at Uspa. At this point I was left wondering how it would come off during a spa session.

Quality of Spa Experience

Ushered upstairs, by Lely, the Spa and Retail Development Manager, I was encouraged to fill out a Dosha quiz, which later I would learn the results of. For now I just learned that it was a way of identifying aromas, herbs and oils that would help me achieve balance and wellbeing in my life. Uspa is a moderately small spa, with a couples treatment room and 3 single rooms. I began my spa session relaxing in a large steam room, pausing in the moisture before turning on the overhead Vichy shower for a short period. I was to have a Men's Moroccan Facial, followed by herbal tea in the relaxation lounge. After entering the darkened treatment room, my therapist, Natasha, took me through the opening ritual footbath, scrub and moisturise, using a range of aromatic products and ritual application that introduced me to the style of Uspa. Scrubbing my feet with an Organic Wild Thyme Pumice, followed by Tangerine Rose Body cleanser and Body Moisturiser, it felt like each aspect of the treatment had been thoroughly planned and integrated into the treatment, including pauses for quiet, a variety of product textures, aromas and feeling. Natasha was very adept at moving through the techniques, balancing light dextrous touch with deep pressure work when necessary.
The ritual focus of the session continued into the facial treatment, with each product being applied and removed with flowing sequences. From time to time I could feel a warmth just above my face, this being Natasha pausing with her hands just above my skin, each time bringing a sensory awareness that moved into a relaxing calm as she applied and worked the products. I found myself drifting off numerous times, almost falling asleep. Each product had a new and distinctive character, whether aroma or feel, ranging from the clean and crisp Sandalwood cleanser or Azulene balm to the lush and lingering Hydrating Mud Therapy or Moroccan Argun Moisturiser. Natasha had chosen my range of products in response to the needs of my skin and it was definitely a sensory delight.
During the process of the facial, I was treated to some Balinese Body Palming, scalp massage, and a sequence of massage moves for the arms and legs. It was a great balance of treatments, moving from one to the next with some surprise, adding more complexity and interest to the session. It was a great combination for the whole body. The room was suitably dark for relaxation, with very comfortable furniture, the presence of a subtly aromatic candle in a corner a nice touch, and soft, inoffensive music piped around the rooms.

After my therapy I was led to the relaxation lounge area for a herbal tea and a chat with the therapist. The lounge was an open area space with soft furnishings and wooden chairs as well as an outdoor roof garden, with sculptural plants and a couple of day beds, room enough for small groups of 10 or so for a spa party.

With a slightly tired air, the lounge was certainly quiet while I was there, with a great ambient light filtering in through the glass doors. Here I was to learn the results of my Dosha Quiz, published by the Chopra Center in Carlifornia (founded by the motivational speaker Deepak Chopra). A form of Ayurvedic philosophy, my Dosha is one of three "mind-body constitutions", used in a natural healing system originating in ancient India. As I was new to this philosophy, I was a little intrigued to find which Dosha was applicable to me, leading to a choice of aromatic candle, oil and herbal tea to help maintain my mind-body constitution in balance. Apparently I was two out of the three doshas at the moment, but for the sake of the spa session, Natasha picked one for me to try the tea and oil. Feeling balanced was probably more a result of the spa session than anything else. I was left with a list of products that were used during the session, in case I wanted to purchase any.
Eclectic, stylish, aromatic and ritualised, Uspa lived up to its goal of an immersive experience. I found the Men's Moroccan Facial a great way to treat the whole body, from head to toe, while experiencing a superb facial combination. The additional steam and Vichy shower beforehand were superb for relaxing and getting ready for the main treatment. Definitely recommended.

Treatment:
Men's Moroccan Facial
90min $140 (including steam/vichy session)

Pros:
Great combination of ritual, aromatic products and skilled application.
Well-designed ambience and product range

Cons:
I wasn't convinced by the Dosha quiz. It was a nice herbal tea, though.

Facilities: 4/5
Product: 4/5
Therapy: 4/5
Proficiency: 5/5

Total: 17/20 “A unique fusion of Indian and Balinese traditions with western product design.”

Type of spa: Day Spa

SPA DEAL: Book in for the 90 minute Concept Facial at Uspa Immersion and receive a complimentary massage (valued at $59) when you mention "Great Spa Search"

Tell them that you read it at Great Spa Search!

Info:
Address: 202 Bay Street, Brighton
Tel: 03 9596 0526
Email: immersion@uspa.com.au
Web: www.uspa.com.au/immersion

Wallet Rating: $$$

Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 10am - 6pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: closed

Skincare brands available:
Uspa (own brand)
Lu'Lur (own brand)

Other products available:
Sahara'zaha scarves
Yoganic yoga wear
Kashwere throws
The Chopra Centre
Papaya robes
Zoya nail laquers

*Please Note: This treatment was provided to us at no cost by Uspa for the purposes of review. Although complimentary, this is no way affected the outcome of the review. Our policy is to inform readers of any services provided free of charge.

2010-12-30T09:22:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

If you're considering New Year's resolutions this year, it helps to pick something you can stick to long term. Here's some tips for creating your best skin in a holistic manner this year, some take moments to incorporate, with results guaranteed!

1. Cleanse. Easy, takes one minute. It's number one, because when overlooked, it can have a big impact on your skin. Make sure you're using the right one for you, and use it nightly. Don't go to sleep with your make-up on. All day, your skin is exposed to micro-pollutants, and debris is collecting on your skin and in your pores. It is now known that pollution from the environment in congested cities contributes to skin damage. So wash away the day, every night.

2. Treat. Choose something that is active for improving your skin and use it under the advice of your skin care professional. Most skin will benefit from a properly formulated Vitamin C. The Pure C Complex Serum is specifically built to improve the condition of your sun damaged or stressed skin. With two levels of C, the serum assists in the production of proline, needed for collagen. Other conditions improved include pigmentation, visible capillaries, psoriasis, and overall brightened skin tone. Apply to clean skin under your moisturiser for immediate results. One caveat, once a day is all you need!

3. Refine. Once you hit your 30s, things slow down. Your skin does not turn over fresh new cells as quickly as it did in your 20s. Some assistance will improve your skin on many levels. If you choose a manual exfoliant, like the Bamboo Polish, gently polish the skin a couple of times a week. For high tech assistance, choose the Botanical Alpha Hydroxy Cell Renewal. This helps many skin types and conditions, from dry to congested, prematurely ageing, and especially sun damaged. You'll have improved barrier function - oil can glide from pores (without getting congested) to properly protect your skin, redundant cuticle is released allowing a more even and vibrant complexion to appear, and your serums or moisturisers will work their best. Just make sure you use SPF with any type of ongoing exfoliation.

4. Drink water. Ugh, if you're like me, water is for bathing and brushing your teeth. But this is the key to keeping cells functioning at their best, for your entire well being. Being as much as 1% dehydrated can have many consequences. Your skin is the last to get the benefits of what you consume, which is why we apply great ingredients for absorption. But a small increase in water daily can improve cellular function, carrying away waste and plumping the skin. Try eating more water rich foods throughout the day. This way you'll be eating your vitamins as well. Your whole body will thank you.

5. Moisturise. It is moisturise, really, because hydration comes from within (see #4). So a moisturiser can improve your ability to stay hydrated. Even oily skin will improve from proper moisturising. Most experts will say use avocado oil in the winter to prevent moisture from evaporating in heat, and for those with oil dry skin (see Ultra Moisture Control Lotion). Use Coco Cream for the body to do the same. Summer? Use a lightweight moisturiser like Hydration Therapy Cream. Dehydrated? Ditto. Oily? Don't strip the skin, you'll just make more. So stay hydrated, and use a little moisturiser with the proper serum to control oil, like Oily Rescue Serum.

6. Do yoga. Or some sort of stress relieving exercise. Stress affects the skin in many ways and it shows. Chronic stress releases cortisol; long term, this creates a cascade effect that contributes to premature ageing and even adult acne. Yoga gives you the tools to be present during stressful situations. Meditation can help with the way you view little stresses, which can impact your overall health. Not sure how to start and create a shift? Download an app for your iPad or phone, learn a pose from a great website like Yoga Journal or take a local class, and meditate with a Deepak Chopra audio session from iTunes. Even following inspiration people on Twitter can give you day to day guidance.

7. Breathe. You'll learn this anyway if you do yoga, but we stop using our diaphragm properly in our youth. Oxygenation and deep breathing also assists with slowing stress, increases circulation, and keeps you healthier in general. Put a post-it note on your computer that says "Breathe". Take a full breath and let the exhale extend longer than the inhale. Add an Elixir for the benefits of aromatherapy. Massage into the skin as you breathe in - a few drops is all you need to create a physiological change in the entire body.

8. Don't over-do. More is not better in every case. If a product says use it once a day, use it once a day. Don't over-peel, and do not load up on antioxidants from six different skin care ranges. There are phenomenon called Hayflick limit and Cascade effect - processes that can be affected by overdoing a good thing. Uspa's products are specifically formulated to work in synergy to allow your skin to perform at its optimal within 30 to 45 days. A Uspa facial will provide tangible results immediately, but chronic conditions that took years to create (sun damage, accumulated inflammation/redness) should be allowed thirty to forty-five days for the most improvement, the typical time a cell turns over in the skin. Be patient, and partner with your professional for best results.

9. See a professional. One of the Top Trends for 2011 listed by Susie Ellis of SpaFinder is the Science of Spa. In other words, massage goes way beyond relaxation, and spas will be more specificabout the benefits of regular treatments for the entire physiology and specific health conditions. See her entire list link below, along with more of the exact benefits research has shown for massage. It's not an indulgence to take careof you at this level. It should be part of your lifestyle, like taking a vitamin.

http://blog.spafinder.com/spa-industry/top-spafinder-spatrends-2011/

10. Re-evaluate. If something's not working for you, work with a professional until you see results. Everything from climate, seasons, environment (office), hormone changes, ageing, and overall health can change your skin's needs. Don't forget to keep your skin care recommendations up to date for the best results. Then evaluate what in your life no longer serves you and let it go.

Here's wishing you the best in 2011 and good luck on your path towards well being.

Let us know how we can help!

Hand Made Inspiration

2010-11-24T07:02:00.000-08:00

While thinking about the holidays, and the philosophy of 'it's better to give than receive', I was trying to create an unbiased approach to gift giving this year. My family is in the non-durable goods mode - they do not want more 'stuff'. At the same time, I feel for them as they always get gifts related to my current job. (Referring to the years of then receiving fly-fishing equipment - I can sense the collective sigh of relief that I've moved on). While I would love to receive skin or body products, I didn't want to assume they felt the same way this year. So I asked. Turns out, they look forward to Uspa every year, even seven years later, saving up their requests for the holiday. Then I was thinking, what could I give from Uspa that would have the most meaning beyond the actual product? This is a no-brainer, actually.

I'm giving my sister-in-law the Travel Essential Bead Bag with Uskincare inside. The products are good for everyone, and it's wrapped in its own gift bag of beautifully hand sewn beads. While we've had the bags ongoing, they shine at the holidays, their reflective green beads sewn into a sought after bag for holiday parties. I used to have women purchase the bag before they even knew it had contents, they were so drawn to the shiny green beauty.

The real gift of the bags goes beyond the beads, extending to the relationship behind them. They are hand-crafted in Bali by a family the Jilly's met years ago on one of their restoration trips. Felix has a small shop where his family crafts these bags customised for the Uspa bottles. The relationship is not a typical business model we might be accustomed to in the West. When an order is placed, the turnaround is unpredictable. It might be six weeks, or it might be six months before the bags reach our door. We plan ahead these days. And yes, there's the occasional flaw; we're a bit more mindful of the hand crafted nature of the bags, and would rather go through looking for a few that don't make the cut, rather than have them machined in a country for half the price. It means something to hold a bag in your hands that supports a family business, one that takes pride in their craft for generations. I'm glad we can keep something in the hands of the small guys.

Otherwise, my brother will benefit from the artisanal Berber women cold pressing the sought after argan oil in Morocco, found in the men's moisturiser. The global use of their argan supports multiple initiatives and sustainability programs in their community. My mom will get the ultimate for someone who gives much of herself - the chance to receive a Uspa Concept Facial at one of our supported spas. As you go through the holidays, don't forget to include rejuvenation for yourself. Open something from Uspa with essential oils that speaks to you, and take time to breathe. Then share this ritual with someone you love. Well being might be the best gift to ourselves, and it's a deep breath away.

Inspired by Experience

2010-10-28T11:19:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder what inspires the Uspa treatments and products? You might be surprised to know they evolve from real life experiences rather than a marketing department. Here is a product and treatment with a real history of healing with ties to the founders own experience with the sun.

Aloe Vera has been used for centuries in many cultures to soothe and heal the skin, from island to desert climates. Years ago, the Jillys were in Thailand with their kids on holiday when they got a bit too much sun exposure. The locals brought them aloe leaves, sliced them open and applied them to the skin to soothe and cool. The aloe removes heat from a burn, and has many constituents to begin healing and prevent damage, including minerals, enzymes and cellulose, calcium, zinc, magnesium, potassium, essential fatty acids, and 20 amino acids to name a few. The soothing effects inspired our current Aloe Hydrant Gel with Green Tea and the Aloe Linen Wrap experience. The added synergy of potent Green Tea works to instantly improve the condition of the skin while providing antioxidants to assist in minimising free radical damage from UV exposure. The Aloe Hydrant Gel feels firming and also acts as a humectant to restore moisture in the skin, whether your skin is oily or dry and dehydrated. The unique aroma comes from an Infusion of soothing Lavender essential oil and exotic Boronia, meant to take you on a sensory journey reminiscent of fresh cut grass. While thought of often in summer, it is excellent in winter with the added impact of indoor air that is heated and dry.

For the soothing Aloe Linen Wrap with Green Tea, the Aloe Hydrant Gel is blended with our skin saving Tangerine and Rose Dry Oil to create a customised cream for the body, warmed and smoothed in to be wrapped in natural cloth. With meditative face massage, Balinese Body Palming for relaxation, skin is soft and highly nourished, benefitting from these remarkable healing ingredients to combat dehydration or inflammation. This experience is available Uspa locations globally, just as aloe is available in Mother Nature worldwide.

Coffee and Sea Kelp: Exfoliation Nirvana

2010-09-06T07:09:00.000-07:00

As a skin care professional I am always trying to relay the importance of full body exfoliation to my clients. Many of us feel we are too busy to take the time to practice this amazing ritual. It doesn’t have to take all that much extra time in the shower and I highly recommend that clients at least try it once a week. Then I introduce them to the delicious product Organic Contour Scrub with Coffee and Sea Kelp. The aroma alone is motivation enough to give full body exfoliation a whirl.

The Organic Contour Scrub was created to help remineralize the skin, diminish the look of cellulite, and hydrate. The combination of ingredients including ground coffee, grapefruit extract, and vanilla extract give this product its yummy aroma. All I can say is “DELISH!” The coffee is even sourced from a family run organic coffee farm in Italy. What’s not to love?

The Organic Contour Scrub utilizes the synergy of coffee and sea kelp to provide an anti-cellulitic scrub. Coffee is naturally exfoliating, detoxifying, and provides anti-oxidants to protect the skin. Topically applied, the caffeine stimulates circulation, redistributes and reduces the size of fat cells. The Japanese have been soaking in tubs of coffee for centuries for these benefits. Sea kelp replenishes these newly detoxed cells w/minerals, amino acids, and iodine which are all easily assimilated by the body and helps release excess body fluids. Ground Pumice provides an invigorating exfoliation that polishes away dry skin cells. All of these ingredients blended with the moisturizing properties of Macadamia Nut Oil leaves your skin, and your senses, invigorated, smooth, and hydrated!

To use the scrub at home, I recommend getting into the shower without the water on and start exfoliating from your feet, working your way up to your hips, abdomen, arms, and chest. Use a vigorous back and forth stroke on your legs and arms, and circular motion on your joints and abdomen. After you’ve exfoliated your whole body, turn the water on and rinse off. Enjoy the smell and the feeling of your new skin.

This product and treatment are inspired by a trip to Bali by founder George Jilly, where he received an incredibly stimulating version with local ingredients. Visit a Uspa Professional for the full experience where you will be wrapped in soft natural cloth following your vigorous scrub. The infusion further detoxifies and treats the skin. After a rinse, your skin is nourished with the Tangerine and Rose Dry Oil (see previous blog for these amazing benefits) in a specific method to encourage lymphatic drainage.

We look forward to your feedback and questions!
Katie Breitling, Uspa
Owner, Esthetician, & LMP
Tangerine Spa Studio

A bit about Katie!
Katie lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest where she opened Tangerine Spa Studio (in Wallingford, a quaint neighbourhood in Seattle). She has offered her clients the Uspa experience for the past four years, and assists with education when she can. Katie stays balanced spending time with her husband Jason and her dog Peat, enjoying the beautiful outdoors. Catch her hiking, surfing, and or getting a cup of some of the best coffee anywhere!

Through the Hands of Professionals: Education Recap in Seattle

2010-08-20T07:01:00.000-07:00

I spent two days with an intimate group of professionals in Seattle to advance what they know about Uspa and our treatments, upcoming products, and opportunities, as well as garner feedback what we can do to improve. The blessing of education remains that I find myself learning as much from them, and becoming renewed through their stories and passion for the brand. They are the ones soaking up the Uspa philosophy and passing it on with passion to their clients. Hearing their feedback for creating change with their clients, from the simple to the profound, recharges us at the top. Uspa has historically grown into ten plus countries through the hands of professionals. Thanks to Ed Wyse, and specifically Maureen Wyse, for hosting and arranging this class.

Here is a summary of information exchanged in the two day format.

1. Best suggestion for Uspa from a therapist: I loved Katie B's (Tangerine Spa in Wallingford) idea to put the Thermal Red Pepper into a roller ball tube for ease of application. You could roll the oil into the area you need without getting it on your hands (thus avoiding accidentally touching your eyes), and you could use the ball for pressure to massage into muscle.

2. Group diversity: guests traveled from Walla Walla (Impress) and Olympia (Beauty Temple) as well as the surrounding area. We hosted nail technicians wanting to expand their knowledge so they might make great recommendations to their guests for overall care, hair stylists with the same intention, massage therapists learning signature elements of our wraps, aestheticians updating their knowledge, and educators confirming their skill sets.

3. Most exciting prospect: A new inspired treatment for Uspa might come from one of these passionate therapists!

4. Well received update: the mud therapy will be re-released as the originals, minus the parabens. While the parabens have been removed from the range for a while, the mud therapy formulas underwent some updates on resources. We are looking forward to re-introducing these in new packaging to reflect the original signature mud therapy.

5. Most anticipated new product: Tangerine Lip Gel. While we cannot give an exact date, we are shooting for before the end of the year. This group previewed the very original packaging.

6. New and ready for delivery from Australia: Moroccan Elixir, a professional use only gorgeous argan blend for massage and more; also, a pro use only Therapeutic Bath Soak with green tea, sea kelp and bergamot. Created to complement the Aloe and Green Tea Linen Wrap, this one is also great for creating an aromatic towel soak for the back.

7. Amazing therapist's concept: Sara-ann's Haircut Experience ... the service begins with deeply relaxing scalp massage; you are invited to set intentions for what you would like to release through the haircut as you relax, breathe, and just let go. Wow. Can I move to Olympia? (see Sara-Ann at Beauty Temple in Olympia, Washington)

8. Saddest exchange? Realizing we are rarely experiencing the treatments ourselves. Make a commitment to exchange with a Uspa therapist to fully understand what your clients are experiencing, and to re-energize yourself. Even if you exchange foot baths and a coffee or tea!

9. Most fun: Giving the facial to a newbie, and seeing her reaction. Thanks Katie the 3rd, I know you'll do a great job!

10. Most notable adaptation for treatments: Not performing a sensory journey with the UConcept Facial. Think of the Elixir as prescriptive in the facial, and intuitive for body treatments.

10. Special request: Videos on some aspects of the treatments. We're going to try this. I would like to tour the world, showing an element from your inspired location. Perhaps Balinese Body Palming from Bali? Coffee Scrub in Seattle? We look forward to expanding this concept and making it available for educators and therapists on line.

11. Previewed: the new manual. This is being worked on around the clock to include more guidelines than ever. Updated product profiles, anecdotal details, treatment updates, grids for shortcuts that include product amounts and timing of steps. Lelien and Lely in Australia are submitting the latest pages daily. We hope to provide this in electronic format, printing only when necessary!

12. Most alternative uses product: Thermal Red Pepper. I've heard migraines (ok, that was me), hemorrhoids (this came from the girls in New Zealand, though I've since read an article about the substance P and this application), sinuses (ask about Katie B's TRP face mask), fibromyalgia, sciatica, aches, arthritis, cooling, adding to shave cream, and more. Second runner up, Damask Rose Hydrosol. Sunburn, shave bumps, swollen feet (ok, that was me again),

Other notes ...
The Foot Bath is still so profound for connecting, and is the best format for communication prior to the facial.
Our wrap technique takes practice, but sets the treatment apart.
Balinese Body Palming can soothe and calm even the most talkative of clients.
Treating our clients as individuals and taking the time for them are things we are not willing to compromise.
A sense of humour goes a long ways ... don't take ourselves too seriously!
It's harder to video a segment of our treatments than you would think.
The signature stretch in our Concept Facial is loved by our clients.
We have all the tools we need to treat and improve the skin while providing an amazing sensory experience.
Uspa is growing on a global level! Several new destination spas are on board, with more countries expected by next year.

Thank you all for your dedication. If you missed this session, we hope to see you soon. Please feel free to contact us directly with questions or comments.

Uspa's SPF 20 Aloe Hydrant Cream with Green Tea

2010-08-08T13:46:00.000-07:00

Sun care is confusing. It's also controversial. While technology advances every day to provide the next greatest block, some regard sunscreen worn all day every day as too much of a good thing, preventing absorption of vitamin D, and exposing the skin to a cumulative dose of chemicals. Others are downright alarmist about its use at all for a multitude of reasons! With all of the information and misinformation on sun care, we want therapists and clients alike to be informed so they can make their own decisions about when and if to use sun protection.

Here are ten things to know about sun care, prevention and Uspa's

Organic Sun Defense SPF 20 Aloe Hydrant Cream with Green Tea.

1. Home Grown. Uspa's Sun Defense was created from the ground up in Australia, the country with the most stringent standards for sun care in the world. Sun care products are regulated by the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Association) This organisation decides which sun care products can be imported into the country, and regulates what can go into products being produced in the country. The TGA assigns the SPF number to the product submitted after testing.

2. Broad spectrum. Uspa's Sun Defense protects against UVA and UVB damage with the use of micronised titanium dioxide and octyl methoxycinnamate. The term "organic" in the name of the Sun Defense was assigned to the product by the TGA because of the nature of the resource titanium dioxide, and in this case is a descriptor for this ingredient rather than the nature of the botanical extracts included.

3. Lightweight. Created to be a lightweight, quick absorbing product that can double as a moisturiser for most skin types. It leaves no greasy residue, important on a sunny day in Australia. With nourishing aloe, the product provides humectant properties for the skin. Shake the tube thoroughly prior to use to re-emulsify for maximum effect. Gently massage into the skin. The white colour is the nature of the titanium dioxide, and this will disappear as applied.

4. Anti-oxidant synergy. Green Tea and Vitamin E combat free-radical damage, and further stabilize the active ingredients when exposed to the sun. Green Tea has been shown to assist the skin in fighting the signs of ageing with polyphenol and xanthenes. Drink a cuppa while you're at it! Uspa's Sun Defense will also assist in preventing sun spots - a first sign of premature ageing from sun exposure.

5. SPF 20. Not 15, not 30. Why? The market in general goes for 30+. Uspa's formulator determined the increase of UV absorbing ingredients needed to increase the SPF from 95% protection to 97% protection was not worth the extra 2%. We created a product we love, and the TGA rated it a 22 SPF. We'll take it!

6. Reapply. Any sunscreen is only as good as how you use it. Most companies go with a 30SPF because we can't be trusted to apply the product correctly - generously and thoroughly! Use a shotglass worth of product when applying all over. Apply 15 to 20 minutes prior to sun exposure. Reapply according to this formula provided by the FDA: SPF = Sun Protection Factor, based on the length of time you can stay in the sun without getting burned. The formula is 10 (minutes) x 20 (SPF). Reapply every 200 minutes, or after sweating or being in the water. Our Sun Defense is not waterproof - that's a whole other conversation on ingredients.

7. Altitude. Altitude is a sun enhancer. For every 1000 foot increase in altitude, the sun's potency increases by 4%. Going to the mountains? Reapply more often!

8. Skipped Sun Care? Sunburn continues to develop for 12 to 24 hours after the initial burn takes place. Use anti-inflammatories to soothe and prevent swelling. Use Mud Therapy or clays to reduce heat in the burn and soothe pain. Follow with Aloe Hydrant Gel to assist healing.

9. Stop exfoliating. It's a good idea to stop using products with retinoids or powerful exfoliation properties to avoid further sun damage if you have a big vacation at the beach or on the slopes, Stop using your exfoliating products for at least two weeks prior in order to build up a protective layer of skin cells. Otherwise, it is advised to use sun care daily with the use of exfoliating products.

10. It's personal. With so many opinions on skin cancer prevention, getting your vitamin d, premature ageing, accumulation of chemical exposure, and on and on, it best to ask yourself, what is your personal sun protection goal? Less wrinkles? If yes, then use a well rounded approach that includes active skin care to combat the effects of the sun. Skin cancer prevention? The links to the sun and some types of skin cancer are constantly being reviewed, so adopt an overall lifestyle approach of avoiding peak sun hours, proper clothing and eye wear, and a diet full of nutritious antioxidants the body can absorb.

The summary? Our Sun Defense fits the overall Uspa philosophy of creating a highly effective product, and that more is not necessarily better. We encourage everyone to cultivate a lifestyle that includes natural elements positively affecting well being and healthy skin on many levels, inside and out. And don't fret a few well earned smile lines as you age gracefully.

We value your feedback!

The Powerhouse of Macadamia

2010-08-04T13:27:00.000-07:00

If we're going to write about a product or ingredient within the Uspa range, where to start? I decided to expound on an ingredient indigenous to Australia and utilised since Uspa began, the Macadamia ....

The nut itself is indigenous to Australia, discovered South of Brisbane in 1828 by noted explorer and botanist Alan Cunningham, and then named after Dr. John Macadam. Macadamia is rich in Iron, Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium and Calcium, and contain zinc, copper and selenium. The nuts also contain Vitamin E, Thiamine (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, and Folate.

Why is it so beneficial for the skin? The nuts also provide a high percentage of a fatty acid found mostly in marine mammals - Palmitoleic Acid, also known as Omega 7. This acid is only found in small amounts of land organisms, but is present in one of the highest concentrations in the Macadamia. The acid is naturally present in the human sebum of the young, but the amount drops considerably as we age. We can replenish this acid in the skin because the oil matches the sebum of our skin, and quickly absorbs to help cells rejuvenate. It is believed to provide important healing and anti-ageing benefits for the skin, affecting the life of cells, assisting them to live longer by protecting the membranes from contamination. Because it is similar to our own natural lipids, the oil provides an important defence from dehydration as well. It is a powerful anti-oxidant and is high in Vitamin E.

This wonder ingredient that represents the best Australia has to offer can be found in our award winning Tangerine and Rose Dry Oil. Perfect for the body any time of year with its light non-greasy application. Macadamia products are also now appearing in the market for use on the hair to repair, protect, and nourish. Massage the oil into the scalp and through the hair as a mask to treat dryness and damage. Think of the Tangerine & Rose Dry Oil as your defence against premature ageing and over-exposure in the summer, and nourishing and replenishing in the winter. Blended with the synergy of anti-ageing marigold and supportive jojoba for elasticity, and the subtle aroma of true tangerine and rose essential oils.

Let us know how you use Tangerine & Rose Dry Oil!

2010-07-25T10:31:00.000-07:00

Uspa Immersion in Melbourne is the flagship concept location for all things Uspa. The menu reflects the latest treatments, the retail is a showroom of our full product range, and the therapists follow the inspired protocols for all Uspa treatments to create an experience for clients, now known around the world. We offer education and consulting through the location, with space set aside on training days for therapists' use of the facility. We encourage anyone working with Uspa globally to come spend time with us in the Australian environment for the full authentic experience. With the global office on site, the team that brings you Uspa is on hand to welcome you.

The building was created to mirror the philosophy and aesthetic of the botanical range, and environmental consciousness is reflected throughout. Read below for a complete list of the elements used, the inspiration, and the efforts to leave a small footprint when building a new location to showcase the brand. Designer David Reade worked closely with Uspa founder George Jilly to create the one of a kind location. For more details on the design and inspiration, please see http://www.idshop.com.au/latest.html.

The design of the dayspa strongly reflects Uspa’s philosophy to create a sensory and physiological experience that brings about a positive change.

A gentle curve to the timber staircase and twisted plaster ceilings provide a link between retail space and day-spa. A hand-forged balustrade shaped as a tree, branches upwards leading the visitor on a sensory journey. Defying the usual expectations of timber, ironbark boards in the relaxation area flow from wall to floor, forming a unique curve that cocoons the entire space, together with soft furnishings, a calming ambience is created. Natural un-dyed alpaca carpet gives a soft entry to the treatment rooms, where a nurturing environment prevails. Open fire places, spa bath, private showers, limestone and restored timbers combine earth elements to form a tranquil setting.

An Environmentally Sustainable project

A sustainable ethos is conveyed by incorporating energy efficiencies, natural materials and recycled elements into the design strategy.

Where possible, existing building materials were recycled and Australian FSC certified timbers were used throughout the project. Re-using and repairing fireplaces, original timber floors, plaster ceilings, walls, skirtings, architraves and trims minimised new material use. The staircase structure was remodeled and covered in recycled tallowood and the hand-forged balustrade was locally made. A natural oil finish has been applied to the tallowood flooring, while the spotted gum shelving and wall paneling have been purposely left in their raw state.

Applying the maximum limits of one pane of laminated glass, opened the entire shopfront to natural daylight. Energy savings are also made through the use of G12 metal halide, 70watt directional lighting and T5 fluorescent tubes. The 7 metre light sculpture has been handcrafted in Melbourne using willow reeds, sourced from a permaculturist in Daylesford, Victoria. Natural limestone was used as a wall feature and honed bluestone has been laid as floor tiles. The service counter, detailed with limestone and recycled ironbark, was constructed in Melbourne and antique tables for merchandising, have been sourced from a local second hand dealer. The restored open fire place with a honed natural bluestone hearth provides warmth during the cooler months and minimises energy use.

The upstairs dayspa features full sized glass pivoting doors that open to the rooftop balcony, bathing the entire relaxation area in natural daylight. Skylights in the treatment rooms ensure minimal artificial lighting. Where required, energy efficient lights are used. Treatment room light fittings are made from ‘silk worm’ cocoons. Natural limestone was used as a wall feature and honed bluestone has been laid as floor tiles. Un-dyed alpaca carpet was selected for it’s thermal and acoustic properties, it has been made in Melbourne using minimal processing to retain the integrity and softness of the fibre.

The lounge suite in the relaxation area has been designed and manufactured in Melbourne. Wicker furniture selected has GECA (Good Environmental Choice Award) certification. The rugs within the relaxation area are pure wool and the light feature is locally handmade from natural materials. Antique furnishings have been sourced from local second hand dealers.

Rainwater is harvested and collected in a 4,000 litre tank for use in the bathrooms and reduced water flow taps and shower heads have been installed. Hot water is generated from a solar heat pump and circulated throughout the building to conserve water.

Uspa Immersion continues to look for ways to leave a smaller footprint, from monitoring air conditioning and heater energy consumption, adjusting settings for maximum efficiency, studying staff use of fuel to and from work, to working with our local laundry provider to switch to environmentally friendly detergent for the spa towels, sheets, and robes.

Welcome to Uspa

2010-07-25T09:59:00.000-07:00

Uspa welcomes you to this forum for the botanical range of skin, body, and hair care made in the pure Australian environment. We hope to hear your feedback and comments as we take advantage of the available social media to touch as many people as possible in the ways that suit their needs.

Look for upcoming posts relevant to Uspa's history and ongoing evolution. Many changes have occurred over the years behind the scenes, and we look forward to profiling many global spas, salons, therapists, and those that contribute to making Uspa the brand it is today.