And yet, ANOTHER benefit of daily exercise!

The key to a healthy lifestyle: diet and exercise. Living a healthy lifestyle can help you live longer and help you look younger while doing it!

Studies show that regular aerobic exercise is a must for anyone committed to slowing the aging process. With an increase in blood flow to the skin, there is also an increase in the rate of new cell growth and oils for moisture. Exercise not only helps keep your body in shape, flexible and healthy, but your skin as well as it helps keep the skin supple to prevent wrinkle formation.

So what will you do to slow the aging process? Jogging around your neighborhood? Heading to the gym? Joining a yoga class? Or my personal favorite, rollerblading! Now it's your turn- what's your favorite stay young activity?

You don't need to be a bartender to mix up this incredible drink

Next time you are out and order just a water from your server, be sure to ask them to add a little lemon. Some people like it for the taste or some like it because it simply looks better, but after learning a little more, I think I like it for the health benefits.

Not long ago, I heard my friends talking about a cleanse, where they would drink nothing but lemon juice or lemon water for two to three days in order to flush away any impurities in their body. Now, I certainly am not ready to not eat for three days, but the idea that lemons can naturally 'detoxify' is enough for me to pick up a few lemons at the grocery store. It's just a lemon and water, after all. What could be easier?

And more than that, I like the taste of it! With the sweet taste of lemon added, I enjoy drinking water-- gaining the benefits of lemon and water in one simple, everyday drink.

Your Foolproof Method to Staying Hydrated!

Drinking water is good for us, right? But let's be honest, not nearly as enjoyable as our morning latte, fizzy soda or a cocktail when we're out. I know it's good for me, but it's just a little, well, boring. So I did a little research and a little trial and error to see if there was a way make water a little more exciting without compromising all the benefits. Here were my favorite low or no calorie additions to water: 

• Squeeze a sliced orange into your water glass and add a teaspoon of vanilla extract-- almost the taste of an Orange Popsicle!
• Herbal tea  is a great option, especially green or mint tea, you can try it hot or try it iced
• Using an "infuser" try sliced strawberries with a dash of raw sugar in your water for a sweet, natural juice-like taste. 
• Now this one I haven't tried, but I've heard that using ginger in your drinking water not only is a nice refreshing addition, but also helps with nausea and headaches

These are just a few of my favorites that I have tried. What do you do to dress up your water? 

The Best Sleep you Never Got

I've learned a lot in my college classes- about terms, theories, and practices-  But more than any of these, college has taught me how to function with the least amount of sleep possible. 

There are a few simple ways to do this. The first and most important of these is looking like you are perfectly well rested. Because if you look awake, you feel awake. First, I chug a glass of water which usually gets me going enough to start boiling water for my cup of (caffeinated) tea. Then I assess the damage in my bathroom mirror. 

With my Enza products close by, I start with normal routine and finish with the Sustaining Glow Creme to brighten up my zombie-like complexion. And to get rid of those dark circles and puffy under-eyes, the Eyebright Eye Gelee usually does the trick. And while I'm not a makeup artist by any means, by using a light eye shimmer on my lower lash, brow bone and corners of my eyes, can truly work wonders on tired eyes.

Next thing I know, I'll be sitting through class, trying to pay attention to whatever new theory my professor is talking about, and I probably won't really be learning anything. But I sure look like I am. Oh the things you learn in college. 

Spoil Your Skin

Since this month is all about falling in love with your skin, you can't skip out on showing your skin a little love! Facials are one of the best ways to pamper your skin, improve your health, and give you an time for complete relaxation.

It's true, pampering your skin (and yourself) can have some valuable health benefits! Like lowering your blood pressure. The stresses we go through on a daily basis continually spike blood pressure levels. By giving yourself an hour to forget about emails, bosses, and work altogether, you can relax and let your blood pressure drop.

The facial massage that feels oh-so-relaxing will open your pores and your blood vessels to increase circulation throughout your body. An increase in circulation will stimulate nutrients and oxygen while regenerating new cell growth.

And in this cold season- and by cold I mean coughing, sore throat, runny nose and congestion- your facial just may help naturally ease your congestion. The combination of oils, massage, and steam will help reduce pressure associated with the congestion.

Who knew a  little spoiling for your skin could go such a long way! Want more information on facials? Contact the Enza Medispa!

Believe in Beauty Sleep

It's that internal debate between getting a the full eight hours or staying up to finish that last chapter, writing that last email, or in my case- watching one more episode on Netflix. It's only a half hour, so sleep can wait, right? Hours and episodes later and its only about five hours until you have to be up-- there goes your good night's sleep. Your initial reaction is that it's no big deal, but over time, you'll be seeing a few more consequences than just spending a little extra on your morning caffeine fix.

The truth is, sleep affects all aspects of our body and our health, and skin is a major one. Because your body doesn't have to work at skin protection while you are sleeping, it has time to repair the damage done throughout your day. Therefore getting  your beauty sleep really is vitally important! When you don't get enough sleep, your skin will display it prominently, for all to see. 

• Dark, puffy Eyes-You'll start to rock the 'tired eyes' look. The lack of sleep may alter the regulation of blood vessel tone which will contribute to these under-eye bags. 
• Dull, Dehydrated Complexion-Sleep deprivation reduces the skin's ability to stay hydrated, leading to a duller appearance. 
• Acne Prone Skin- Decreased sleep leads to increased levels of cortisol in the body- the stress hormone which is blamed for many stress-related breakouts and inflammations. 
• Skin Sensitivity& Irritation- Poor skin habits can lead to trouble with skin sensitivity and irritation as you are decreasing the amount of time your skin has to repair damages done during the waking hours.

Of course those few late nights are bound to happen, but the more you can avoid depriving yourself of your precious beauty sleep, the better! Next time your faced with the choice between sleep and that one last episode, remember the value of your sleep-- and I'll have to start taking my own advice!

In Case You Need Another Reason

So maybe your resolution doesn't have anything to do with skin care. Maybe it's to break some of those bad habits--smoking, drinking in excess, not getting enough sleep, not working out, poor diet, etc. Well lucky for you, we can help you with that too! It turns out that these bad habits can really negatively impact your skin along with other aspects of your health. Whether your reason to drop these bad habits is to save money, live healthier, lose weight, etc.-- we'll give you yet another reason to drop those habits! 

• Smoking- Did you know smoking is one of the top aging accelerators for your skin? And more than that, it's the fastest acting of those three. Noticeable aging sets in after only 10 years of smoking!
• Drinking Excessively- Of course your class of wine with dinner or an occasional social drink will not harm you, an excessive consumption of alcohol over time can dehydrate your skin, making it appear dull and dry. 
• Not Getting Enough Sleep- While the obvious immediate effect on your skin is puffy-eyed complexion, a more lasting effect is your body's stress that will produce the hormone- cortisol which can increase breakouts, breakdown collagen and age the skin.
• Skipping Your Workout- Working out is key in giving your skin a healthy glow by increasing blood flow which helps nourish skin cells throughout the whole body while also decreasing stress.
• Poor Diet- By not eating enough antioxidants, healthy fats, or by eating too many carbohydrates, you are taking away your body's ability to protect, nourish, moisturize and improve your skin!

Now it's time to just do it- whether it's your resolution or not, it's time to kick those bad habits to the curb. Your health, appearance and the sanity of your skin depend on it!

Forever Young

If we could find that mythical fountain of youth, we could do just that-- live forever young. But rather than spending the time, effort, and stress searching for it, there are ways that to  prevent your "appeared age" from catching up to your "actual age." So here the following tips is our version of a fountain of youth. Start with these easy tips, and while you might not be able to push off signs of aging forever, you certainly will be able to keep you youthful glowing skin for longer. 

• Stay hydrated: Drinking water allows your body to flush out toxins and helps hydrate your skin along with the rest of your body. By drinking 8 glasses a day you will help brighten your complexion. 
• Apply SPF and minimize sun exposure: Sun damage such as sun burn and tanning is a major factor in skin aging. It causes wrinkling as well as a dryer, worn appearance. By wearing SPF, you can protect your skin from this premature aging, but limiting sun exposure is key!
• Moisturize: Be sure to apply moisturizer after cleansing your face every morning and night, and as needed. By leaving your skin dry and flaky, your skin will age and wrinkle sooner.  
• Quit smoking: Smoking majorly increases your age. Not only does smoking increase wrinkling and dryness, but it also exposes your skin to to harmful cigarette smoke that can be just as dangerous as ultraviolet rays from the sun. 
• Rid your stress: Stress has the ability to damage your skin by causing breakouts, circles around your eyes and of course, wrinkles. 

If you've already started noticing signs of aging, there is still ways to "reverse" aging without having to undergo surgery. Enza Essentials offers a topical serum, the Tri-Peptide Cell Activator that prevents the skin from aging while improving fine lines and wrinkles. Dr. Rucker also talks about the newest anti-aging treatment Enza offers, for more information, check out his blog!

With the new year just beginning, what better time to work on improving and protecting your skin than now! It may not last forever, but you can keep your youthful look for longer than you may think!

Are You and Your Skin Care Products Compatible?

When purchasing your skin care products, what do you look for? Do you look at for products that match your supposed skin type- dry, oily or combination? While this makes sense, it is not the main factor to take into account when purchasing your skin care products. According to Dr. Rucker, MD, "Skin type certainly plays a role in product choice, but it is not the primary determinant. In fact, lifestyle, age, priorities, nutrition, genetics and environment all trump skin type."

Rather than defining your skin by the typical three categories-dry, oily, or combination- it is important to include your overall lifestyle as well. Dr. Rucker presents a few examples: Athletic Teen with Acne, Outdoor Active Teen on Acne Medication, Stressed Young Mother, etc. Once you define your skin type by taking all these factors into account, you will successfully find skin care products that are truly compatible with with you and your skin type. 


To define your skin type and product match, visit www.enza.com 

They do, they Don't

Not to lecture you, as we all get enough of that without reading Enza's blog, but as we begin the new year with our improved skin care resolutions, there are some things that are essential to know. So on second thought-- we might need to lecture you just a bit (don't worry, there won't be a quiz!). The following is Enza Essentials' friendly list of skin care do's and don't's to help you along your skin care journey. 


DO

• Limit sugar intake- A large sugar intake can destroy your skin's collagen and elasticity resulting in quicker aging
• Include Vitamin C- Be sure to include vitamin C in your diet and apply it directly to your skin as it fights off free radicals
• Choose red wine- Red wine contains anti-oxidants and flavonoids that can help your body fight against skin cancer
• Drink water-Dr. Rucker recommends drinking at least eight glasses per day to help cleanse your system of impurities

DON'T

• Rub your skin dry- Pat your face dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing it, in order to protect your sensitive skin
• Use products with mineral oil or petroleum- These ingredients may lead to clogging your pores and prevent your body from naturally flushing out your skin's toxins, leading to breakouts
• Skip toner-Apply after cleansing and throughout the day in order to keep your skin's pH balance normal, rid your face of excess oils, and keep you looking fresh
• Touch your face- Touching your face leads to an increased exposure to bacteria and oil which will quickly show up as acne and blemishes

Your NEW New Years Resolution

There's always the cliche New Year's Resolutions-- eat healthier, exercise more, be happier-- but how about improving your skin? We at Enza Essentials value the importance of healthy, glowing, youthful skin and you should too! By resolving to take better care of your skin in 2013 you can rid yourself of blemishes, maintain a youthful appearance, fight skin damage/cancers, minimize wrinkles now and later, and simply feel more confident! 


We'll help you through it, every step of the way as you learn how to manage troublesome acne, deal with dry skin, find out your most common mistakes, and you're biggest questions: answered. As we enter into the new year, you can improve your health, confidence and appearance by understanding and taking care of your skin. So join us, and make your 2013 resolution to improve your skin!

No Excuses

So maybe your resolution is to get back in shape or to start exercising again, but the gym membership just isn't something you want to do- whether its because of the the cost, the pressure, or the embarrassment. But just because a gym membership isn't for you, doesn't mean you can't fulfill this resolution! Here are some at- home workouts you can do at your own leisure, pace, and best of all- it's free! 

Cardio Workout

• 40 Jumping Jacks
• 30 Seconds Jumping Rope
• 20 Seconds High Knees
• 20 Seconds Butt Kickers
• 30 Mountain Climbers
• 5 Jump Squats
• 5 Burpees
• 30 Seconds Jumping Rope
• WATER BREAK
• 25 Jumping Jacks
• 20 Pivoting Upper Cuts
• 30 Seconds March in Place
• 5 Burpees
• 35 Jumping Jacks
• 40 Seconds Jumping Rope
• 5 Jump Squats
• 30 Seconds High Knees

Leg Workout

• 10 Forward Lunges
• 10 Plie Jumps
• 10 Reverse Lunges
• 10 Squat Jumps
• 10 Step Ups
• 10 Leg Lifts 
• 10 Single Leg Bridges
• 10 Leg Lifts
• 10 x 10 Second Wall Sits

Arm Workout

• 20 Jumping Jacks
• 10 Wrist Circles
• 20 Arm Swings
• 10 Kneeling Push-ups
• 10 Tricep Dips
• 10 Arm Circles (w/ light wights)
• 10 Tricep Dips
• 20 Incline Push-ups
• 5 Burpies
• 1 Bridge
• 5 Tricep Push-ups
• 20 Arm Swings
• 10 Kneeling Push-ups
• 5 Burpees

Ab Workout

• 30 Second Plank
• 20 Second Side Plank (each side)
• 30 Oblique Crunches
• 20 Scissors
• 20 Mountain Climbers
• 5 V Sit-Ups
• 30 Second Plank
• 10 Vertical Leg Crunches
• 10 Russian Twists
• 15 Mountain Climbers
• 10 Scissors
• 30 Second Plank

Stressing Your Skin

Now that it's hitting the peak of the holiday season, this may indicate that the holiday stress is in full strength. Our hope is that you have not been caught stressing your way though the holidays, but in case have been-- stop-- and think about what your most wonderful time of the year-stress is doing to your skin. 

Because stress affects your entire body, including your skin, the most crucial part of your current stress is how you decide to handle it. Affects of stress on the skin can include: 

• Making your skin more sensitive and reactive
• An increased difficulty to heal skin problems
• Increased production of cortisol- leading to oily skin and breakouts
• Worsened skin conditions including psorasis, rosacea, and rashes
• A duller, worn-out appearance

While these effects are not permanent, they may be uncomfortable, irritating, or embarrassing. However, with a little planning ahead, mental preparation, and time for yourself, you can beat the stress and be able to show off your gorgeous skin all season long. 

Those Years that aren't Behind Us

Just when you think you've escaped those awkward teen years, sometimes the most annoying part of being a teen creeps back up to you: acne. While many believe acne to be a result of a poor diet or poor hygiene, the direct cause of acne is unknown. However, some of the major culprits that fuel adult acne are:

• Undefined Stress: Practitioners link adult acne with the stress hormone, cortisone, which flows through the body when it is over stimulated.
• Hormonal Fluctuations: For women especially-- acne appears during times of ovulation, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. 
• Environmental Influences: This is where diet may become relevant-- eating hormone-injected meat and dairy, environmental pollutants may increase inflammatory conditions. 
• Metabolism: The older we get, the slower our skin's metabolism gets, this means cellular turnover decreases and our skin begins to lose it's moisture and age. 

To beat these acne culprits, some suggested steps to take in order to relive adult acne include: 

• Microdermabrasion: To gently slough off dead cells and increase cell turnover
• Alpha and Bega Hydroxy Acids: Are gentle options for aging and acnetic skin
• Exfoliate: Use jojoba beads to gently exfoliate the skin and prevent clogging of pores
• Deep Cleansing Facial: Natural exfoliating enzymes will help clear the pores and reduce inflammation
• Retinol Products: Can help balance your skin's pH and clear pores of excess oils
• Laser Therapy: BBL will help reduce bacteria and is effective when combined with Light Chemical Peels. 

For more information or to try any of these acne-reducing treatments, contact the Enza Mediaspa. 

You May Not be Getting a Tan, But....

With the cold and snowy weather just around the corner mixed with the short days that are already too apparently here, it gets pretty hard to be outside for more than the time it takes to get to and from our car. But this can be a real disadvantage to both our mind and body in more ways than you think.

Contrary to what may be ingrained in our minds, sun exposure in moderation has shown to have a positive effect on the body. For example, it is a good source of Vitamin D which has been linked to higher bone density and decreased risk for some cancers. 

Moreover, when you lack seeing sunshine, you are indeed, negatively affecting your mood. It's harder to feel happy and positive when you are stuck in an office all day- in fact there is an entire disorder describing this. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression, usually in the winter, due to lack of sunlight. Experts say at least 30 minutes of time outside in the sunlight is the perfect way to prevent (and cure) this disorder.

So avoid the depression altogether. Take a walk on your lunch break, play in the snow with your kids, or go for a morning jog. These easy ways to enjoy the outdoors will allow you to get the sunshine you need!

Look Alive!

Jump in the shower, brush, style, makeup, and coffee to go? A typical morning? If this sounds like your routine, try shaking it up and make the most of your morning! By using one or more of the following tips, you will be more positive, happier, and look and feel more awake.

• Don't Skim on Breakfast- Even if you are trying to cut back on calories, don't do it during breakfast! By starting out with a solid, healthy breakfast, you jump-start your metabolism, avoid the later cravings and energize your mind and body for the day. 
• An Apple a Day- Did you know that eating an apple in the morning might give you just as much energy as a cup of coffee? It also works as the perfect start to your breakfast!
• Move!- If you're not up for a full morning workout, even something as small as a sunrise stretch is a good way to relieve stress and pump you up with energy for the day. 
• Your Morning Soundtrack- Music can make your waking up process a little easier and relaxed. Listening to music you enjoy makes the body produce a chemical that can instantly improve your mood.
• Lighten up!- Don't forget make yourself look more awake with your favorite makeup and an under-eye bag reducer to give yourself a bright tone to greet the day with.

Whether you're a morning person or not, start making the most of your morning!

Beyond the Products

Have you ever wondered why your "promised-results" products just aren't working?  It may be because your overall lifestyle isn't supporting a healthy mind and body. Dr. Rucker emphasizes the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle. "You can use the best products in the world, but if your habits are unhealthy, your skincare probably won't work." Dr. Rucker goes on to describe examples of the worst ways to treat your skin. These include getting too little sleep, smoking cigarettes, excessive alcohol intake, poor nutrition, skipping sunscreen, sunbathing, or tanning indoors. 

The following tips will ensure you are supporting a healthy mind and body: 

• Hydrate- Dr. Rucker recommends 8-10 glasses per day to hydrate and brighten your skin while making it healthier and younger.
• Diet-  Hidden in those brightly colored fruits and veggies are tools your body needs to repair the skin.
• Sleep- The skin's prime time to repair itself is while you are asleep, don't stop your body from doing that!
• Quit- Bad habits such as smoking and drinking make your body and skin vulnerable to bacteria and infections, while also encouraging aging of your skin.

Spoil Yourself

Now would be the perfect time to splurge a little on yourself. Try a facial, massage, manicure/pedicure, or a full spa day! By allowing yourself a little relaxation, you can benefit your health in more ways than you might think.

For example, did you know that just a 10 minute massage can significantly help relax your muscles, nervous system, and mind? Or that facials can can improve and fix many common skin concerns? That a manicure can hydrate and exfoliate the skin on your hands and around your nails? Or even that a spa day can promote healthy sleep patterns? Of course, the added bonus to all of this is its ability to help you relax and de-stress. 

Be sure to try the Enza Medispa for services like facials, microderms, waxing/sugaring, and others. While you're here, we'll help you splurge even more by giving you a free makeover!  

So don't forget about you this holiday season and let the health benefits of relaxation be an excuse to indulge and spoil yourself!

Cookies, Gingerbread and ... Avocados?

Now that all your favorite holiday food and drinks are back in season, it becomes so much easier to indulge. And it certainly doesn't help when your baked goods become the most popular giveaways from your neighbors, co-workers, friends and family. While the first thing we often begin to worry about is our weight, our skin also takes a hit from a high-sugar diet. 

So while it may be nearly impossible to completely avoid a little holiday indulgence, it becomes essential that you try to limit the goodies and mindfully include healthful foods to keep your skin glowing through the winter seasons. We've compiled a list of the best foods for your skin. Be sure to sneak in a few of these before testing out the neighbor's freshly baked cookies!

Enza Essentials: Best foods for your Skin

• Salmon (and other seafood) has high concentrates of omega-3 acids which nourish the skin.
• Kiwi is packed with Vitamin C which helps maintain the collagen in our skin. 
• Squash's vitamins and antioxidants will help boost immunity and fight aging of the skin.
• Tomatoes contain lycopene which reduces effects of sun exposure and stimulates healthy skin.
• Yogurt aids in dry lips, skin, skin lesions, and dermatitis due to its high content of Vitamin B.
• Avocados will act as a natural moisturizer with its healthy fats and its phytonutrients. 

Enza and Exercise

November 19, 2012-- 1:56 PM

Even though many of you skin fanatics probably already know, I am just learning how complete skin care reaches far beyond your morning and nightly cleansing/moisturizing routine. I mean, did you know that sweating from exercise can actually "detoxify" your skin? I had no idea-- but I figure this can be even more reason for me to kick myself into shape. 

I (like many others) really do enjoy exercise but struggle to find the time (and motivation) for it. So in order to force myself into it, I started a training schedule for a half marathon I will be running in next spring.. which is coming up more quickly than I'd like it to. So anyway, yesterday, I went out for a longer run- the gorgeous weather talked me into it. I remembered from my skin care consult with Deb last week, to cleanse, tone and moisturize my face immediately after working out. And when I did just that, I was surprised to see my face so quickly back to normal after running- not flushed, not red, and not even a little bit oily. My skin felt great instantly. 

Now that I'm working on obtaining flawless skin, I have yet another reason to get out and exercise- especially before the cold weather kicks in! Wish me luck! :)