Dear Ella,

I have never been to a dayspa and I have been invited to attend a private spa party (SPArty?). What do I wear? What services would you recommend? Should I make an appointment? Do you tip staff? I am interested in a facial, but after reading the menu online I don’t know which one is best for me. I am not a girly girl, but willing to learn…HELP!!!

Yours truly, G.G.I.T.
(Girly Girl in Training)

Dear Girl girl in Training,

I am so excited you are coming to a SPArty! First things first, here at Ella Blue the most important rule is for you have fun and feel at home…so that means no question is “off-limits” and we love to show what we know. With that in mind, to answer your questions… Mi casa es su casa, you can wear whatever you want. We have seen it all…jeans, pj's, dresses. We just want you to be comfortable! We always take drops in's when space is available, but appointments are recommended (it’s a great time to ask about services). As in all service industries, tips are greatly appreciated, but never expected (we’re just glad you came!). As far as recommending a service, of course I think they are all great (I did write the menu). Just give us a jingle and we can chat on spa stuff and make you an appointment…we’ll make a spa conasuer out of you yet. In fact, consider yourself promoted to capital “G” Girly Girl.

B.F.F.,

Ella

Dear Ella,

I can’t help but notice there are nail shops on every corner with a huge discrepancy in price and atmosphere. I am new to the world of mani/pedi pampering. I have a coworker who received an infection at a discount nail shop and won’t get professional nail services anymore. Should I just wear mittens and tube socks year round or are nail services safe? What can I look for quality and safety? Do you have any tips for a nail rookie?

Terrified and Tube Socked in Turlock

Dear Terrified and Tube Socked,

I am so glad you asked about nail services. Nail shops have popped up on every corner; many provide wonderful and safe services. Unfortunately, there are some out there that gamble with the safety of their clients to cut costs. As a client, it is important to educate oneself to a client’s rights. The reuse of disposable files, toe spreaders, buffers, and other disposable items should be just that-disposable! They can not be disinfected and can transmit many serious diseases. Metal implements and pedicure whirlpools must be cleaned in an EPA certified cleaner, one that guards against HIV, hepatitis, and most common forms of bacteria lurking in equipment. The good news is all of which is done at Ella Blue (and more!). You are welcome at anytime to ask for a tour of the facilities and sanitation area. (Our nail technicians love an opportunity to shine!) Hopefully, you will be terrified no longer; empowered (I hope)…shed your tube socks and twinkle on tootsies!

Sincerely sanitized,

Ella

Dear Ella, I am approaching middle age and my face looks like it’s from the stone ages. I have been interested in facials, but can they do anything for me or is it just “candles and Enya”? I have noticed my pores and lines are beginning to look like the size of the Grand Canyon. And my skin tone is uneven, too. Is there any hope for me or should I just put a paper bag over my head?

Sincerely,

Hopefully not Hopeless

Dear hopefully not Hopeless,

Cheer up! I am happy to report that your headaches are over, what seemed to be a hopeless situation has a very wholehearted hopeful happy ending. (Say that three times fast.) The world of skincare has gone high tech and there are a lot of options to get great results fast without going under the knife. Try the Take a Decade Off Facial for example. It contains microdermabrasion and photo rejuvenation in a European Facial to resurface and firm skin. The great part is no down time and I guarantee you will have fun in the process. If you don’t have an hour and a half for a facial try the Power Peel. This speedy treatment packs a punch in only 35 minutes! This speedy resurfacing treatment comes in glycolic or microdermabrasion (or you can make it a double). See, you can even do it on your lunch hour. These powerful exfoliating treatments are virtual cures for all skin care woes, including clogged pores, dull and uneven skin tone, fine lines even acne. Skin will look more refined, younger and healthier. Remember Hopeless, facials should become a part of your anti-aging arsenal to fight back the hands of time. Hope this helps Hopeless, I mean Hopeful. Happy to be of help!

Ella