My Luxe DIY Lashes at Lashify on Melrose Place

November 20, 2024

When it comes to self-care, there’s nothing quite like stepping into a space that feels as indulgent as the results you’re hoping for. Lashify on Melrose Place delivers exactly that—a chic oasis where beauty meets artistry. I recently treated myself to their signature lash application and a brow transformation, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer.

From the moment I walked through the doors, Lashify exuded an air of sophistication. The sleek, modern interior is bathed in soft, flattering lighting, and the minimalist design with touches of luxury made me feel like I was stepping into a dream. It’s the kind of place where you immediately know you’re in expert hands.

The Lashify Difference

First up: lashes. Lashify has made waves in the beauty world for revolutionizing DIY lash extensions with their innovative system. But at their flagship studio, they take things to the next level with a personalized application by their highly skilled lash artists. My lash technician  – OBSESSED WITH HER! –  started by analyzing my natural lashes and face shape, then walked me through a consultation to determine the perfect look. I wanted something natural and not over-the-top—think “I woke up like this” vibes with a teeny touch of drama.

The application process was both meticulous and soothing. Lashify’s patented Gossamer® lashes are applied in small sections underneath your natural lashes, creating a seamless, natural look without the heavy feel of traditional extensions. The precision was incredible; every tiny lash was perfectly placed. It felt almost meditative to lie back while the artist worked their magic. When I opened my eyes, I was floored. My lashes looked lush, fluttery, and effortlessly chic—exactly what I envisioned.

I left with a starter kit, some lashes, and a heating eyelash curler and today I will try to do them at home on my own. The great news, they offer zooms and classes to learn!

Brows to Match

Once my lashes were on point, it was time to give my brows some love. Lashify doesn’t just stop at lashes—they offer brow shaping and tinting to complete the look. My brow artist, a stunning Brazilian woman,  took one look at my face and instantly knew how to enhance my natural shape. With a mix of threading and trimming, they created clean, symmetrical brows that still felt full and soft.

The tinting process was quick and painless. The henna dye subtly enhanced my natural color, giving my brows more depth and definition without looking overly done. The result was polished yet natural—perfect for someone like me who loves a low-maintenance routine but still wants to look put together.

Walking out of Lashify, I felt like the best version of myself. The lashes and brows framed my face beautifully, giving me a confidence boost that no amount of makeup could replicate. And the best part? The Gossamer lashes are so lightweight and comfortable, I forget I’m wearing them. They last for days with proper care, making them perfect for busy schedules or special occasions.

If you’re in LA and want to elevate your beauty game, Lashify on Melrose Place is the ultimate destination. It’s not just about the results (though those are spectacular); it’s about the experience. From the impeccable service to the luxe environment, every moment feels like a treat—and who doesn’t deserve that?

Pro Tip: Book ahead because their appointments fill up fast. Trust me, it’s worth planning your schedule around this transformative experience. You’ll leave feeling like a million bucks—and looking it too.

 

A Visit with Dr. Gregory Mueller: The 411 on MyEllevate and Why It’s Revolutionizing Neck Rejuvenation

November 16, 2024

Dr. Gregory Mueller, aka The Neck Doctor, is one of those rare LA plastic surgeons whose name alone carries a certain gravitas. Known for his expertise in facial aesthetics and neck rejuvenation, he’s also the visionary inventor behind MyEllevate, a minimally invasive procedure that’s turning the world of plastic surgery on its axis. Naturally, I had to book a consultation with him, not just to learn about this groundbreaking procedure but also to see if I could be its poster child. Spoiler: I’m not. But the conversation we had was illuminating for anyone curious about the new frontier of neck and jawline enhancement.

The Meeting: Getting the MyEllevate Lowdown

Dr. Mueller’s office feels more like a chic art gallery than a medical practice—a subtle nod to his reputation as a surgeon with both technical and artistic prowess. From the moment I sat down, it was clear he has a deep passion for educating his patients. We dove headfirst into MyEllevate, his baby, and a procedure he describes as “neck contouring for the modern age.”

“This is for the patient who doesn’t need or want a full neck lift but is ready to say goodbye to early signs of aging in the neck and jawline,” Dr. Mueller explained, his enthusiasm palpable. He described MyEllevate as a hybrid between a surgical procedure and a non-surgical treatment—think the precision of surgery without the heavy downtime.

What truly floored me, however, were the before-and-after photos. Dr. Mueller pulled out a portfolio showcasing transformations that seemed almost magical—tightened, sculpted jawlines, lifted necks, and a striking sense of rejuvenation. And here’s the kicker: it works just as beautifully for men as it does for women. The natural-looking results are ideal for men who may want subtle enhancements without looking “done.”

CHECK OUT THE BEFORE AND AFTERS HERE

Dr. Mueller’s Background: The Scientist-Artist Hybrid

Dr. Mueller isn’t just a surgeon; he’s a pioneer. As a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience, he specializes in facial aesthetics, earning a reputation for combining cutting-edge technology with an artist’s eye. His invention of MyEllevate came from a desire to bridge the gap between non-invasive treatments and full-on surgery, creating an option for patients seeking something more precise yet less invasive.

His work has been featured in numerous medical journals, and he is a regular speaker at conferences where he trains other surgeons in the MyEllevate technique. In a city teeming with cosmetic professionals, Dr. Mueller’s name stands out as synonymous with innovation and excellence.

FOLLOW DR. MUELLER ON IG AND FALL IN LOVE

What Is MyEllevate?

At its core, MyEllevate is all about neck support. Over time, the platysma muscles in the neck start to loosen, causing sagging and that dreaded “turkey neck.” MyEllevate uses a patented ICLED® light-guided suture system to thread a supportive matrix underneath the skin, essentially creating an internal scaffold. This suturing technique lifts and tightens the area while leaving the overlying skin intact.

Unlike traditional neck lifts, which involve cutting and removing excess skin, MyEllevate targets the muscle layer, reshaping and redefining the jawline and neck contour without an incision under the chin. As Dr. Mueller puts it, “It’s like a hammock for your neck, giving you the structural support you had in your twenties.”

The Procedure: Science Meets Artistry

The beauty of MyEllevate lies in its minimally invasive nature. Dr. Mueller walks through the steps:

  1. Local Anesthesia: The area is numbed to ensure a pain-free experience.
  2. ICLED® Technology: A light-guided wand helps Dr. Mueller precisely place sutures beneath the skin.
  3. Threading the Sutures: Using this tool, he creates a lattice that lifts and holds the platysma muscles in place.
  4. Finishing Touches: Depending on the patient’s needs, liposuction or energy-based skin tightening (think FaceTite or Morpheus8) can be combined for added contouring.

Perfect Candidate or Not?

So, who is MyEllevate for? According to Dr. Mueller, it’s ideal for patients in their late thirties to early fifties with mild-to-moderate skin laxity and muscle sagging. It’s not a replacement for a facelift or neck lift but is perfect for someone who wants a subtler refresh without the scars or recovery time of a more invasive surgery.

Here’s where things got personal. After a thorough assessment, Dr. Mueller gently broke it to me: “You’d be better suited for a facelift.” The honesty was refreshing. He pointed out that while MyEllevate can perform miracles for structural issues, I also have some excess skin that would need to be removed to achieve the best results.

This, he explained, is why consultations are critical—every face is unique, and no single procedure is a catch-all. His candor reaffirmed his commitment to delivering results that are right for the patient, not just trendy.

Downtime & Results

If you’re a candidate for MyEllevate, here’s what you can expect post-procedure:

  • Downtime: Minimal. Most patients are back to work within a few days, with some mild swelling and bruising lasting up to a week.
  • Results: Immediate improvement in contour, with final results revealing themselves after three to six months as swelling subsides and collagen production kicks in.

Dr. Mueller emphasized that while MyEllevate can be life-changing for the right person, it’s not a magic wand. “It’s a tool in our arsenal,” he said, noting that combining it with other treatments often yields the most natural and youthful outcomes.

While MyEllevate wasn’t the right fit for me, I walked away impressed. This is the kind of innovation we need in beauty—solutions tailored to modern lifestyles and the nuanced needs of individual patients. For anyone teetering on the edge of committing to surgery but not quite ready for the downtime or invasiveness, MyEllevate is a genius alternative.

And let’s not forget the men, who are often underserved in cosmetic conversations. The subtlety and precision of MyEllevate make it an incredible option for guys who want to sharpen their jawline or reverse early aging in a way that’s practically undetectable.

As for me, I’ll likely be back in Dr. Mueller’s office, this time discussing the finer points of a facelift. But in a city obsessed with beauty shortcuts, MyEllevate feels like the real deal—a thoughtful, science-backed approach to looking your best without skipping a beat.

436 North Bedford Dr. Suite 212
Beverly Hills, CA 90210

310-273-9800

Revitalizing Relaxation at Virgo Salon: The Japanese Headspa Experience

November 2, 2024

Imagine a hair treatment that doesn’t just nourish your hair but also refreshes your mind, leaving you with a calm, glowing sense of renewal. At Virgo Salon, this dream becomes a reality with their signature Japanese Headspa, led by the expert hands of KIE, a headspa specialist from Japan with over 15 years of experience. This exclusive treatment blends the best of nature and luxury, using Oway’s organic, biodynamic products to create an eco-friendly, deeply restorative experience for both your scalp and spirit.

My experience with Virgo’s Japanese Headspa was nothing short of amazing. From the moment KIE began, I felt transported. Her skillful touch and soothing, powerful technique allowed me to fully relax – I drifted way off during the session ( and was soooo sad when it ended!!)

The scalp massage was more than a massage; it felt like a deep, penetrating release that seemed to melt away every bit of tension I was carrying. KIE’s cranial sacral work was particularly incredible, gently working on pressure points that left me feeling light, balanced, and clear-headed by the end of the session. This was not just a beauty treatment—it was a total reset for my mind and body.

KIE brings a wealth of expertise and passion to the headspa process, integrating traditional Japanese techniques that not only improve scalp health but also enhance the overall hair care experience. The headspa treatment begins with a deep scalp cleanse, which targets impurities, oil, and buildup that regular shampoos often miss. For anyone battling scalp issues or buildup, this cleansing is transformative, as it paves the way for healthier, more vibrant hair. Each step of the treatment is designed to nourish and balance the scalp, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with scalp sensitivity, dryness, or oiliness.

One of the standout aspects of the Japanese Headspa is its focus on relaxation and stress relief. KIE’s expert techniques tap into the meditative side of hair care, creating a calming atmosphere that makes each session feel like a mini retreat. The gentle motions used throughout the treatment help reduce tension and soothe the mind, making it an ideal escape from daily stresses. This stress-relieving focus is more than a bonus—it’s an essential part of the holistic benefits this treatment offers, leaving you feeling as rejuvenated mentally as you are physically.

Beyond relaxation, the Japanese Headspa offers substantial benefits for hair vitality. Oway’s biodynamic products are crafted with pure, natural ingredients that strengthen and nourish hair from the root, leaving it shinier, stronger, and full of life. The use of organic products also aligns perfectly with the values of anyone seeking clean, environmentally friendly beauty solutions. Combined with KIE’s precise technique, this attention to quality leaves your hair looking and feeling better than ever, with improved texture and resilience.

In short, Virgo Salon’s Japanese Headspa is a unique fusion of relaxation, luxury, and natural care. With KIE’s expert touch and Oway’s eco-friendly products, this treatment elevates your hair care routine to a whole new level. For anyone looking to unwind, rejuvenate, and restore balance, booking a headspa appointment with KIE is a step toward truly indulgent self-care that your hair—and mind—will thank you for.

CONTACT (323) 332-2200

513 Molino St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013
HOURS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Wednesday-Saturday
9am — 7pm

Run Don’t Walk to Amazon: Excuse Me While I Make the Ultimate K Beauty Haul

October 28, 2024

Meet CNP Laboratory: The Prescription-Grade Korean Beauty Brand You Need to Know About!

CNP Laboratory, the #1 Korean beauty brand on Amazon, has long reigned supreme in derma-cosmetics, merging professional skincare expertise with advanced formulations for results-driven beauty. An LG Beauty brand, CNP Laboratory was born from the clinical insights of 23 dermatology clinics, making it Korea’s leading pharmaceutical-grade skincare choice since 2000. If you’re serious about skincare, think of CNP as the brand that turns prescription-strength formulations into everyday cosmetics.

Why CNP Laboratory?

  • Derma-cosmetic Expertise: With a science-backed, low-irritation approach, CNP’s skincare is carefully formulated for efficacy and safety.
  • In-Depth Clinical Testing: From ingredients to final formulations, every product undergoes meticulous testing to ensure it meets sensitive skin standards.
  • High Quality, High Compatibility: Thoughtfully chosen ingredients and advanced delivery systems ensure each product not only hydrates but truly heals.

Star Product: Propolis Lipcerin – The #1 Lip Butter on Amazon!

Looking for a multitasking lip product? CNP’s Honey Propolis Lipcerin brings it all: a lip balm, mask, gloss, and primer combined to provide intense, lasting hydration.

  • Exfoliates and Rejuvenates: Propolis Lipcerin’s unique exfoliating agents dissolve dead skin cells on the lips, promoting natural cell turnover for softer, healthier lips.
  • 12-Hour Hydration: Clinically tested to keep lips plump and moisturized all day or night.
  • Hygienic Applicator: No messy fingers here! The air-fit container has a dial-turning system to ensure a clean application every time.
  • Deep Conditioning Formula: Contains 88% skin-conditioning agents like Propolis Extract, Manuka Honey, Peptide, and Collagen for intensive moisture and anti-aging benefits.

Flavors to Fit Every Mood:

  • Mojito: A zesty lime fragrance with Citrus Unshiu Peel extract to soothe and refresh.
  • Fruity: A berry-scented treat with Tri-Berry Complex™ (Acai, Blueberry, and Indian Gooseberry) for added moisture and firmness.
  • Spicy: A cooling minty blend with Zanthoxylum Piperitum for a plumping effect and a unique tingling sensation.

Propolis Energy Active Ampule Serum – Over 6 Million Bottles Sold ($33.90)

Loved worldwide, this ampule serum is packed with two potent Propolis Extracts from Jeju Island and Brazil, offering rich hydration and a glow boost without stickiness.

  • Instantly Hydrating: Clinical studies show it enhances moisturization by 112%, skin glow by 37%, and texture by 7% in just one use.
  • Skin Barrier Support: With Hyaluronic Acid and Beta Glucan for hydration and Madecassoside for soothing care, it’s designed for sensitive and dry skin alike.

Propolis Treatment Ampule Essence – Award-Winning Glow Getter ($24.90)

CNP’s double-award-winning Propolis Treatment Ampule Essence is the ultimate path to Korean “Glass Skin.”

  • Glow and Hydrate: Infused with Propolis and Honey extracts, this essence amps up radiance, hydrates deeply, and brightens the under-eye area.
  • Lightweight, Non-Sticky Formula: Provides hydration and a natural glow without any residue.
  • Clinically Proven: Ideal for sensitive skin, with tests backing its effectiveness in skin texture improvement and soothing.

Derma Answer Retinol Ampule – Firm and Lift Like a Pro ($26.90)

Transform your skin’s texture and resilience with the Derma Answer Retinol Ampule.

  • 5X Retinol Complex: Tightens and firms skin around the jawline, eyes, and mouth.
  • Sculpt and Define: In clinical tests, it’s shown to lift skin by up to 7.97% around the eyes, 5.21% around the mouth, and 4.79% around the jawline.
  • Advanced Ingredients: Peptide and Polycaprolactone (PCL) reinforce structural integrity, creating a more contoured and youthful appearance.

Derma Answer PDRN Ampule – Restore and Repair ($26.90)

Target all signs of aging in one ampule with the Derma Answer PDRN.

  • S-PDRN Powerhouse: Derived from Salmon Sperm DNA, S-PDRN in this ampule boosts collagen production to improve elasticity.
  • Youthful Revitalization: With Niacinamide for pore refinement and Lactobacillus Ferment Extract for hydration, the PDRN ampule improves skin density and strengthens the skin barrier.
  • Four Weeks to Results: Clinically tested to reduce fine lines and enhance elasticity in as little as four weeks.

From lip care to face serums to anti-aging ampules that deliver clinical-grade results, CNP Laboratory redefines the boundaries between skincare and science. Whether you’re looking to revitalize, hydrate, or simply glow like never before, CNP’s range makes professional-level skincare achievable right at home. If you haven’t tried these Korean beauty powerhouses, now might be the perfect time to upgrade your routine!

My V Shot Experience at R3 Anti Aging in Beverly Hills

October 13, 2024

In my quest to optimize and bio-hack sexual wellness—especially for midlife women—I’ve explored a lot of treatments and therapies. But nothing has intrigued me as much as the V Shot, a treatment designed to rejuvenate vaginal and clitoral function using platelet-rich plasma (PRP). So, when I heard that R3 Anti Aging in Beverly Hills offered this cutting-edge procedure, I decided it was time to give it a try. Spoiler alert: it was painless, quick, and I’m already thrilled with the results.

Now, let’s dive into what makes the V Shot so innovative. The treatment involves drawing a small sample of your blood, isolating the PRP in a centrifuge, and then injecting it into targeted areas of the vagina and clitoris. PRP is packed with growth factors, which work to stimulate tissue regeneration, increase blood flow, and regenerate nerves. Essentially, the V Shot leverages your body’s own healing abilities to improve sensitivity, arousal, and pleasure. It’s non-surgical, minimally invasive, and has no downtime—yes, you read that right!

When I arrived at R3 Anti-Aging, I was greeted by a serene, modern clinic, and my doctor, Dr. Sabrina Solt, —a fantastic and empathetic professional—walked me through every step. After applying a numbing cream to ensure maximum comfort, they drew a small sample of my blood. That was the most “invasive” part of the whole thing. From there, the blood was spun in a centrifuge to extract the PRP, which was then injected with a fine needle into the key areas. The entire process took less than 30 minutes, and aside from a slight pressure sensation, it was completely painless. I was able to walk out of the clinic and get right back to my day.

So, why opt for the V Shot? For me, it wasn’t just about enhancing pleasure—though that’s a major bonus—but also addressing issues that many women face in midlife. The V Shot can help with low libido, vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, and even urinary incontinence. It also offers benefits for those dealing with vaginal atrophy or a loss of tightness. While I’m lucky enough not to have experienced all of these issues, I’ve had clients and friends who have, and they rave about the improvement in their quality of life after the V Shot.

Here are of the questions that I had for Dr. Solt!

Is there pain or discomfort after, once numbing wears off?

There should be no lingering pain or discomfort after the procedure, except a possible feeling of fullness.

How long does it last?

In general, the results are a person gets are usually theirs to keep long term! Of course we have our natural state of aging and degeneration, so some people might benefit from repeating the procedure every 1-3 years.

When can patients experience noticeable changes – and what can they expect?

One healing cycle takes approximately 6-12 weeks, but many patients report a change within the first 30 days. Usually these changes represent improvement in the areas of sensitivity and orgasm intensity.

How often should patients do this?

One treatment is where we like to start, and the discussion of whether or not to add additional ones should be between you and your doctor based on your results and goals.

Who is not a good candidate?

Examples of people who are not good candidates include but are not limited to: Smokers, people with a BMI of over 30, people on certain medications like NSAIDs or opiates, women with active vaginal or vulvar lesions (such as in lichen sclerosus or certain STIs), pregnant women, or those with stage 3 or greater uterine prolapse.

The science behind it is fascinating. Studies show that PRP injections can significantly enhance female sexual function, with improvements in desire, arousal, orgasm, and overall satisfaction. The treatment works by encouraging the growth of new tissue and blood vessels in the treated areas, and the effects continue to build over the next few months. While some women report immediate changes, for most—including me—the full benefits take time to unfold. That’s exciting because it means things will only get better from here.

The post-procedure recovery was almost non-existent. The clinic advises patients to abstain from intercourse for three days afterward, but I can tell you it’s totally optional. I didn’t abstain and felt completely comfortable resuming normal activities. Minor side effects like slight swelling or tenderness can occur, but they typically subside within a day or two.

As someone who writes frequently about sexual health and wellness, especially for midlife women, I think the V Shot is a groundbreaking tool. It’s more than just a quick fix—it’s a way to reclaim your sexual health, connect with your body, and enhance pleasure naturally. This procedure isn’t about treating dysfunction alone, it’s about optimizing sexual wellness, boosting confidence, and owning your pleasure in a way that feels empowering. For women navigating midlife changes, that sense of control over one’s body is invaluable.

So, would I do it again? Absolutely. The V Shot has already started to make me feel more attuned to my body, and I’m excited to see how the benefits continue to evolve over the next few months. The idea of having more intense orgasms, heightened sensitivity, and improved arousal on the horizon is thrilling. Plus, knowing that it’s a natural, PRP-based procedure makes it even better.

For those curious about taking the leap into the world of sexual wellness optimization, I highly recommend exploring the V Shot. It’s a simple, safe, and effective way to embrace a healthier, more connected version of yourself. And if you’re in the Beverly Hills area, R3 Anti-Aging is hands-down the place to go.

Here’s to a future of more fulfilling, empowered sexual wellness. Ladies, it’s time to own it.

 

R3 Anti Aging

9301 Wilshire Boulevard
Penthouse
Beverly Hills, California 90210