Our last trip to Austin was one of the most memorable weekend getaways I have ever taken! Even though we only had 72 hours to explore the city, I just had to stop in to the flagship location of Milk + Honey Spa, my favorite natural spa for a facial. Kevin wanted to spend a daddy and daughter morning with Kai in 2nd district shopping for toys and candy. I took advantage to have a self-care mommy spa day! Here are the top 3 tips I learned to help you get the most out of your natural facial.

1.     Arrive early! Enjoy every minute of the experience

For me, spa is about the experience. The minute I walk into Milk + Honey, I swear it just feels like my mind is in a different place. The soothing sounds, the white robes, the organic décor, all of it transforms me to an alternate universe, one where my stress and worries can melt away. My biggest tip is to get there early so you can truly allow yourself time to unwind. The steam showers are just pure heaven and almost washes your stress away. Relax in the lounge and truly center yourself before your treatment. I love the in-depth skin care questionnaire Milk + Honey has their patrons fill out before the service. I had an open conversation with my esthetician and discussed skin type, areas of concern, primary goals and treatment experience before starting the facial.

2.     Don’t be afraid to ask about the products

I love that my facial began with an open conversation. Given my skin care goals and my love for natural products, my esthetician agreed a OSEA facial would be the route to go! If you have been following me for a while, you know that I’ve used OSEA’s vegan, non-toxic products since last summer (for over a year). OSEA is a family owned business out of Southern California. Their line was built on the profound relationship with ocean and it’s healing powers. OSEA uses organic seaweed and only the best, natural, clean ingredients in their beauty line. I have tried everything from the Blemish Balm for the occasional break out to their Red Algae Mask which has a cult following. I love their natural, non-toxic & cruelty approach to beauty and their commitment to doing what’s best for the environment. My esthetician recommended a combination of Ocean Cleansing Milk (great for sensitive skin) & Essential Hydrating Oil( Great to restore shine and hydration) for the cleansing and hydrating portion of the facial. The favorite product she used on me was, without a doubt, the White Algae Mask. The While Algae Mask revitalizes uneven skin tones and polishes away dull, dead skin. I even dare to say it’s top 3 best face mask I have ever tried!  After cleansing, exfoliating and extractions, my esthetician applied the White Algae Mask and my skin felt instantly soothed. It smelled amazing and it felt like my skin was drinking up the moisture from the mask instantaneously. My other favorite item was the Brightening Serum, which contains organic Algae and Vitamin C to brighten your complexion. My esthetician mixed it together with the hydrating Ocean Lotion (great for all skin types) for the finishing touch. I have never thought to combine my skin care products like that before and it was life changing. The texture of the Brightening Serum mixed with the replenishing feel of the Ocean Lotion was fluffy and absorbed like a dream.

3.     Maintenance is key

If you haven’t nailed down your skincare routine yet, use your time with the esthetician wisely. Have an open conversation about what at home maintenance looks like. You can start small with a mask or serum or completely overhaul your skincare cabinet with the recommendations. I love that Milk & Honey only carries natural, organic and clean skincare products so they’ve already done the research for you in a sense. My esthetician also recommended a maintenance facial at least every quarter to deep clean the dead skin cells and reveal healthier looking skin. I might have to ask for a monthly spa membership just for the stress relief benefits! Ha!

All joking aside, whether it’s your first or 1000th facial, I am hosting a giveaway over on my Instagram page for a special treat from OSEA Malibu and Milk + Honey Spa. Hope on over to tell me about your skin care goals for a chance to win!

Best of luck and happy spa day!

Xo

Joy