Somatology / Health and Skincare / Beauty and Nail Technology / Aesthetics / Cosmetology in Facial Cupping

Facial cupping is becoming increasingly popular on social media and with SOMATOLOGY / HEALTH AND SKINCARE / BEAUTY AND NAIL TECHNOLOGY / AESTHETICS / COSMETOLOGY therapists. Many celebrities have been hyping its benefits on social media, alongside images of their bruised backs. Facial Cupping is less extreme and is also doing the rounds on TikTok, with tutorial videos receiving thousands of views.

But what is Facial Cupping?

Cupping is an alternative therapy that uses suction cups made from glass or silicone to stimulate the skin and muscles.

What are the benefits of Facial Cupping?

  • It potentially increases overall skin health and tightens and tones the skin.
  • The suction from the cups works like a vacuum, forming a negative pressure within the cup, pulling the blood up to the skin’s surface. This will increase blood flow to the skin area beneath the cup, promoting the formation of new blood vessels and increasing the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the skin.
  • The negative pressure from the cups also creates controlled micro-trauma in the skin, as seen with micro-needling. This increases collagen production in the area, decreasing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
  • The suction also releases fascia adhesions between multiple layers of the skin. This will improve lymphatic flows, increasing the removal of waste and toxins in the skin.

What would you need to incorporate cupping treatment into your current facials?

Smaller and softer cups – used facial treatments.

Form of lubrication, e.g., any non-comedogenic oil – decreases the risk of causing damage.

Serums, creams, or lotions with lots of active ingredients – applied before the facial oil as cupping will assist with the absorption of all the ingredients

Which clients are suitable for Facial Cupping?

  • Lack of Collagen – Facial cupping has the ability to stimulate collagen and fibroblast production which means it is great for visible signs of aging.
  • Oedema and swelling – It aids in lymphatic drainage, which can help relieve swelling by moving fluids around the body.
  • Sagging around the jawline – Facial cupping can assist with tightening and contouring the jawline, chin, and skin on the neck.
  • Chronic sinusitis, Bell’s palsy, headaches, and trigeminal neuralgia (you will need a doctor’s consent to perform the treatment on these clients).

 

Facial cupping can be a good supplementary treatment for clients to maintain the effects of other treatments they receive from SOMATOLOGY / HEALTH AND SKINCARE / BEAUTY AND NAIL TECHNOLOGY / AESTHETICS / COSMETOLOGY professionals in salons, spas, and clinics.

 

With the right treatment protocol, facial cupping is safe, takes minimal time, and requires minimal resources – so it can be a simple add-on to other treatments and facials.

 

 

SOMATOLOGY / HEALTH AND SKINCARE / BEAUTY AND NAIL TECHNOLOGY / AESTHETICS / COSMETOLOGY in Lactic acid

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid commonly used in skincare. SOMATOLOGY / HEALTH AND SKINCARE / BEAUTY AND NAIL TECHNOLOGY / AESTHETICS / COSMETOLOGY experts predict that Lactic Acid will be one of the key ingredients in products this year.

 

How does lactic acid work?

Lactic acid is commonly used in topical skincare for its numerous benefits for the skin, including exfoliating properties. These days Lactic Acid is usually synthetically made in a lab where traditionally it was created as a natural by-product of plant and dairy fermentation.

 

Lactic acid breaks down the desmosomes, a skin-binding enzyme, causing surface cells to be released, exciting the exfoliation process. The deeper layers of the skin are stimulated to increase the making of collagen and glycosaminoglycans, the skin’s water carrier cells.

 

Lactic acid has a large molecule size, so it’s gentler and can’t penetrate as far into the skin on the skin as other Alpha Hydroxy Acids. This makes Lactic Acid a skin surface exfoliator.

What can Lactic Acid be used for?

  • It can boost the skin’s vitality.
  • Dry, dehydrated, and dull skin
  • Environmental photo damage.
  • Helps stimulate ceramide formation to strengthen the skin’s barrier function.
  • It can reduce the appearance of fine lines.
  • Its antioxidant properties help remove free radicals and heavy metals that may come into contact with the skin, preventing DNA damage.
  • Pigmentation and uneven skin tone

 

How should it be used?

Because lactic acid is a gentle exfoliant, it can be found in many skincare products including cleansers, toners, and serums – so there are plenty of ways for SOMATOLOGY / HEALTH AND SKINCARE / BEAUTY AND NAIL TECHNOLOGY / AESTHETICS / COSMETOLOGY experts to include it in their routines.

 

Products containing Lactic Acid should be retailed to clients. It can be used as part of the cleansing step in their routine or following a cleanser as a standalone ingredient no more than twice a day. Clients should always finish with sunscreen during the day, or moisturizer at night as needed.

 

Clients can visit a SOMATOLOGY / HEALTH AND SKINCARE / BEAUTY AND NAIL TECHNOLOGY / AESTHETICS / COSMETOLOGY professional for a Lactic Acid peel. Lactic acid also can also be combined with aesthetic procedures such as needling and injectables. A therapist would not perform the treatments together even though their benefits work in harmony to achieve results.

PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ARTISTRY in a guide to different makeup brushes

 All PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ARTISTS will have a large selection of makeup brushes, each one designed to perform a different function.

For a novice, the process of selecting the correct makeup brushes can be a daunting affair, below is a short guide on all things makeup brushes, to help steer you in the right direction.

PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ARTIST brush types

 

  • STIPPLING BRUSH 

Stippling brushes are used to achieve a natural airbrushed finish when applying a foundation. The main feature of a stippling brush is its dual-sized fibres, combining long and short fibres that are tightly packed together. As you begin your makeup application, start with gentle patting motions, pushing the brush on the face. Once the foundation is dispersed, you can then use the longer bristles and blend the product to create an air-brushed finish. Stippling brushes are best used with cream foundations and also work well for layering products like foundation, blush, and contouring makeup. 

  • TAPERED FOUNDATION BRUSH 

Tapered foundation brushes are flat and medium-sized brushes with slightly tapered edges. These brushes are ideal for applying liquid foundation and creating even coverage. It can be used to apply other liquid products like blush, concealer, and highlighters. A PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ARTISTRY tip for using tapered foundation brushes is to wet the brush before use and squeeze all the excess water out with a paper towel, it helps achieve even coverage and ensures no foundation is absorbed by the foundation makeup brush. 

 

  • KABUKI BRUSH 

Kabuki brushes have densely packed fibres, making them ideal for use with powders. Kabuki brushes are often used to apply body shimmers, and loose powders to set your makeup look, and to apply powder foundations and blushes. 

 

  • CONCEALER BRUSH

Concealer brushes are like tapered foundation brushes, but much smaller. The small size is designed to ensure you can easily apply it to small areas of the face. A concealer brush can even be used to conceal minor imperfections, clean up a liner edge or even a lipstick line that is smudged.

 

  • CONTOUR BRUSH

A contour makeup brush is designed with a tapered edge to follow the natural curves of your facial bones. The goal of contouring is to create contrast in your makeup look, bringing attention to features you want to highlight and minimising areas you want to hide.

 

  • POWDER BRUSH

As the name suggests, powder brushes are used to dust loose powder across your face in a light layer. Powder brushes are thick and have many fibres. Powder brushes are multi-purpose brushes and a must-have in any makeup brush set. They can also be used to apply powder foundation, or even blush brush for a natural look.

 

  • FAN BRUSH

A fan brush has fibres that spread out in a fan shape. They are typically used for highlighter applications, but this brush can also be used to brush away excess pigment from your eyeshadow or to blend out a blush that is too dark.

 

  • BLUSH / BRONZER BRUSH

Bronzer and blush brushes are remarkably similar to powder brushes, with much of the same functionality. The only difference is that they are often thicker than powder brushes while being smaller in diameter. This is because they’re designed to cover the smaller cheek area and not necessarily your whole face. These brushes are perfect for re-creating natural bronze makeup looks.

 

  • BLENDING BRUSH

A blending brush is a small, fluffy, dense brush that is designed for powder products. Blending brushes can be used to blend eye makeup, merge different shades to achieve an even gradient, or blend out a harsh colour for a diffused look. It’s a perfect brush to use for a smokey eye. Depending on its size, you can also use a blending brush to apply a highlighter. 

 

  • CREASE BRUSH

A crease brush is designed with a slight taper to make them multi-purpose. The tapered edge can be used for precision application, whereas the other side can be used for eyeshadow makeup application. 

 

  • SMUDGE BRUSH

Stubby, smudge brushes have a short and densely packed bristle design. The denseness of the bristles ensures it can pick up a lot of pigment and apply a concentrated layer of it to your face. However, the soft bristles are also ideal for blending out the product, resulting in a smudged look. It’s ideal for use along the upper and lower lash line, since it’s flatter and wider than other precision brushes. If you are looking to achieve a smokey eye makeup look, this is the brush for you.

 

  • FLAT EYESHADOW BRUSH

Flat eyeshadow brushes are a perfect tool for applying a base layer on your lids, as well as for applying your desired shade on your lid, with even coverage. The key is to use patting motion when applying to achieve the perfect look.

The flat tip makes application easier, while the rounded tip helps the brush pick up more product for a more concentrated application. You can also use the flat brush to blend out the edges of your eye makeup. 

 

  • EYELINER BRUSH

Eyeliner brushes are one of the biggest must-haves in any makeup tool kit.

These multipurpose brushes come with a tapered edge that can be used to control the thickness of the liner.

 

  • BROW BRUSH 

Most of the time, brow brushes come in a double-edged design, with a spoolie or brush on one end and a tapered thin brush on the other. The spoolie is used first to straighten out your brows, while the brush side is used to add dimension and intensity to your fill product of choice. 

 

  • LIP BRUSH

Lip brushes are a perfect tool for the precise application of lipstick.

The thin brush can be used to line your lips first and fill in afterwards.

 

  • PENCIL BRUSH 

Pencil brushes are small, thin, and dense brushes, with tapered edges, which can be used for anything and everything. You can use this brush for spot concealing, as well as to apply concealer to clean up the edges of your eye makeup or lipstick. You can also use it to apply concentrated eyeshadow around the upper and lower lash line. 

 

At Hydro International we offer PROFESSIONAL MAKE-UP ARTISTRY COURSES where you can learn the art of makeup application for different occasions and events. Why wait, start your career in PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ARTISTRY today!

Signs that your skin is dehydrated:

  • Your skin can feel both oily and dry at the same time.
  • Your skin tends to change texture based on your environment, the products you use, and your diet.
  • You tend to break out occasionally and unexpectedly.
  • Your skin is dull, congested, and flakes easily.
  • Your skin feels tight, but you prefer very light moisturizers that absorb easily into the skin.
  • If you are still not sure if your skin is dehydrated, try the pinch test: pinch your skin between two fingers. If it bounces back (meaning it lays flat again) right away, you’re hydrated. If it takes longer to fall, it’s likely you’re dehydrated. It’s worth noting that your skin doesn’t have to fall into the dry skin type to be dehydrated. Combination and oily skin types can also experience dehydration. 

    What is the best way to treat dehydrated skin?

    • Drink plenty of water. You’ve heard it before your body is mostly water, so the skin suffers if you’re deficient.
    • Eat a balanced diet with healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, salmon, and nuts, which are high in omega 3, to improve the overall health of your skin.
    • Wash your face in warm/cool water. Hot water can dry out the skin by opening pores and allowing moisture to escape.
    • Hydrate and moisturize your skin. Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a great ingredient for adding water to the skin, look out for ingredients like squalene in moisturizers which will lock the moisture into the skin.
    • For the body, try a clinically proven emollient like colloidal oatmeal. Not only is it hydrating but it’s also anti-inflammatory.

     

    To summarise, when we talk about having dry skin, what we are typically talking about is skin that doesn’t produce a lot of natural oils. But your skin can also be dehydrated, meaning it’s not getting enough water. It’s important to make sure you eat a well-balanced diet, drink enough water, and use products that can help draw water into the skin like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and colloidal oatmeal.

     

    We offer courses in HEALTH AND SKINCARE / SOMATOLOGY / BEAUTY THERAPY / BEAUTY AND NAILS.

    The beauty industry has so much to offer, there are always new and exciting trends developing. Contact us to start your career in HEALTH AND SKINCARE / SOMATOLOGY / BEAUTY THERAPY / BEAUTY AND NAILS.

     

     

     

PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ARTISTRY in Day makeup tips and guidelines

The key to fabulous day makeup is definitely – less is more!

Day makeup should be subtle and flawless, just don’t worry just because you are toning things down a little doesn’t mean the impact won’t be impressive. In fact, your daily makeup looks can be worthy of a runway, or a casual photo shoot.

Wearing makeup during the day can be a tricky affair, as there’s little room for error. The lighting can make even small imperfections noticeable. Thankfully there are many makeup techniques one can use to produce great daytime looks to enhance your facial features and make you look fabulous.

Here are some day makeup guidelines compiled by our PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ARTISTS to keep you on point:

  • Avoid dark or glittery eyeshadow. This should be reserved for evening looks. Rather opt for a matte eyeshadow in a neutral color palette.
  • Go easy on the eyeliner! Use soft shades and only apply on the outer ¼ of the eye and blended, liquid liner and dark thick eyeliner should be avoided.
  • Switch up the smokey eye: swap the classic black for lighter plums, greys, and browns to create a subtle daytime look.
  • Go easy on the contouring. Contouring is a great technique to enhance facial features, however, heavy contouring tends to look harsh in the natural daytime light so keep it light and blend!
  • Choose a lighter lip color: Bold lips are certainly not an absolute no-no for a day’s makeup, but if you want to play it safe, choose a lighter lip with a bit of shimmer/gloss or try a matte lipstick to change it up.

 

To summarise day makeup should focus on soft shades and soft lines. Daytime looks don’t necessarily need to be boring; you can certainly rock red lips for a daytime event but keep the drama to either the eyes or the lips, not both.

 

At Hydro International we offer PROFESSIONAL MAKE-UP ARTISTRY COURSES where you can learn the art of makeup application for different occasions and events. Why wait, start your career in PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ARTISTRY today!

HEALTH AND SKINCARE / SOMATOLOGY / BEAUTY THERAPY / BEAUTY AND NAILS in dry versus dehydrated skin

Skincare therapists so often get clients saying their skin is dry. But what is dry skin, and is it the same as dehydrated skin? And can you have both? Well in short, yes you can. Let’s look at the signs and what to do to improve each one.

What is dry skin?

In HEALTH AND SKINCARE / SOMATOLOGY / BEAUTY THERAPY / BEAUTY AND NAILS dry skin is one that is lacking in sebum (oil). Usually, dry skin is accompanied by dehydration as there are no natural oils to lock in the moisture in the epidermal layer, this can also lead to sensitivity.

Signs your skin is dry:  

  • Your entire body and face feel dry, you are constantly applying moisturizer, and, in most cases, it just never feels enough on the skin.
  • You tend to choose moisturizers that are very thick, heavy, and oily.
  • You have no natural sebum (oil) production in the skin.
  • Your skin feels itchy and tight, especially after cleansing.
  • Your skin looks dull and flaky, and the texture is rough.
  • Your skin tends to feel a bit sensitive in some places.

 

What is the best treatment for dry skin?

In HEALTH AND SKINCARE / SOMATOLOGY / BEAUTY THERAPY / BEAUTY AND NAILS there are many options available, here are a few great tips to get your skin on the right track.

 

For the face:

  • Use a moisturizer with antioxidants like vitamin C, to boost collagen production and protect the skin from environmental stressors.
  • Add niacinamide to your routine, this potent B vitamin strengthens your skin barrier and helps regulate sebum production.
  • Use serums that repair the barrier of the skin, and look out for ceramides in the ingredient listing.
  • Don’t skip the sunscreen! Protecting your skin from damaging, inflammatory UV exposure will keep your skin less stressed.
  • Drink omega 3, this oil helps to moisturize the skin and fight red, dry, or itchy skin. Omega 3 oils improve the skin barrier function, sealing in moisture and keeping out irritants. Omega 3 is also a great anti-inflammatory.

 

For body:

  • Start with a good body exfoliating scrub to slough off dead cells.
  • Keep your body cream in the shower and apply your body cream to damp skin as it helps to lock in moisture.
    • Look out for nourishing creams that have ingredients like shea butter, almond, and coconut oil.

     

    What is dehydrated skin?

    In HEALTH AND SKINCARE / SOMATOLOGY / BEAUTY THERAPY / BEAUTY AND NAILS dehydrated skin is one that is lacking in water. Dehydrated skin can be found with any skin type.

 

Signs that your skin is dehydrated:

  • Your skin can feel both oily and dry at the same time.
  • Your skin tends to change texture based on your environment, the products you use, and your diet.
  • You tend to break out occasionally and unexpectedly.
  • Your skin is dull, congested, and flakes easily.
  • Your skin feels tight, but you prefer very light moisturizers that absorb easily into the skin.
  • If you are still not sure if your skin is dehydrated, try the pinch test: pinch your skin between two fingers. If it bounces back (meaning it lays flat again) right away, you’re hydrated. If it takes longer to fall, it’s likely you’re dehydrated. It’s worth noting that your skin doesn’t have to fall into the dry skin type to be dehydrated. Combination and oily skin types can also experience dehydration. 

    What is the best way to treat dehydrated skin?

    • Drink plenty of water. You’ve heard it before your body is mostly water, so the skin suffers if you’re deficient.
    • Eat a balanced diet with healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, salmon, and nuts, which are high in omega 3, to improve the overall health of your skin.
    • Wash your face in warm/cool water. Hot water can dry out the skin by opening pores and allowing moisture to escape.
    • Hydrate and moisturize your skin. Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a great ingredient for adding water to the skin, look out for ingredients like squalene in moisturizers which will lock the moisture into the skin.
    • For the body, try a clinically proven emollient like colloidal oatmeal. Not only is it hydrating but it’s also anti-inflammatory.

     

    To summarise, when we talk about having dry skin, what we are typically talking about is skin that doesn’t produce a lot of natural oils. But your skin can also be dehydrated, meaning it’s not getting enough water. It’s important to make sure you eat a well-balanced diet, drink enough water, and use products that can help draw water into the skin like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and colloidal oatmeal.

     

    We offer courses in HEALTH AND SKINCARE / SOMATOLOGY / BEAUTY THERAPY / BEAUTY AND NAILS.

    The beauty industry has so much to offer, there are always new and exciting trends developing. Contact us to start your career in HEALTH AND SKINCARE / SOMATOLOGY / BEAUTY THERAPY / BEAUTY AND NAILS.