Alas! I searched far and wide to find the best microblade artists in town for you. And here she is: Julia Faria.
Why did it take me two years? Or is it three? Because bad microbladed (is that even a word?!) brows are everywhere! I had clients asking me who to go to – I had nada. Mostly because if I have not tried something, I cannot and will not speak to it. How can I recommend a procedure if I have not personally tried it?
At this point in Groomed LA’s ten year tenure, I rarely actively seek providers. We are flooded with invitations to experience the latest and greatest in beauty, aesthetics, healing, etc. But the the micoblade artists I had been pitched didn’t feel right to me. They looked terribly painted on, overly dark and fake looking. ICK! Thanks to Instagram, (yup, the gram) I found Julia on my own. Her work looked incredible. Natural, understated, and a little ‘fluffy’ so to speak. I reached out and enter the most adorable, gorgeous talented creature. Miss Julia.
I headed to her stunning studio on Rodeo (that gorgeous complex – oh the views!) and was greeted by this Brazilian goddess. It was love at first sight. Her whole vibe is real, natural and less is more. She looked at my brows and said we could do a little something-something. The goal was to fill in the spottier areas, not re-create a fake brow line that wasn’t already naturally there. She took her pencil and sketched in what she saw would be the perfect brow frame. She was correct. It was perfect. Mind you, I never have penciled in my brows. Ever. I always think dark, heavier brows made me look manly. Julia proved me totally wrong. The way she lightly filled in where hair was missing, simply gave my brows and face the perfect framing.
We booked a session and in one quick hour, my first pass was done. I AM OBSESSED. Easy as heck, painless and relaxing. The first few days I was extra dark (of course I miss that now, as it fades a bit) until I go back for my next pass in a few weeks. This is now a no-brainer. I will for sure do this every two years. It’s a face game changer. Paired with gorgeous lashes from Patricia of Bijou Beauty and I am good to go – make up free – my fave.
Julia developed her unique technique that no one else is doing. If you are looking for The One, Julia is it.
This was the day after and my brows look a bit painted in and heavier. In a few days they started to peel to reveal soft, natural brows.
The Rodeo Collection
421 North Rodeo Drive, Suite T-13 (2nd floor), Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Ph: +1 559 558 7992
Julia also sells amazing brow gels and growth serums!!
How about we introduce you to Honor MD Skincare by first sharing their brand mission called “The Honor Code”
“Our dedication to clean ingredients is way more than skin deep. Honor MD is committed to using products that are clinically proven to be effective, but are free of any “nasties” like parabens, phthalates, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, oils, and many more. We use only clean, ethically sourced ingredients and all of our products are non-toxic, vegan, cruelty-free, and feature environmentally friendly packaging. “
– Ursula and Dr. John Diaz, Founders of Honor MD
This expression and commitment sums up one half of why I fell head over heels for the debut of this exquisite, perfectly edited, tidy line of 4 powerhouse products to take you from morning to night and back again.
The other reason is what they’re made of. Let’s take a peek at what goes in this crystal clear purveyors of gorgeous, radiant skin, and why.
ROSE HIP SEED OIL
Extracted from the seeds of the wild rose bush in the Andes mountains, it is a rich source of Vitamins A,C and E that not only nourishes and regenerates skin, but also work together to provide powerful anti oxidant protection.
CAT’S CLAW BARK
An herbal medicine found in South America, and used in Peru for centuries, which has been shown to have remarkable anti inflammatory and healing properties.
MORINGA
Leaves of the Moringa oleifera plants are found throughout the Dominican Republic and its skin rejuvenation properties have been known to natives for hundreds of years.
COFFEE
Coffee is a South American staple, and has powerful anti oxidant activity. Its extracts have been shown to improve fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and overall skin appearance.
PAPAYA
This tropical fruit is widely used throughout the Caribbean, Central America and South America for its skin healing properties. In addition to protecting the skin from UV damage, papaya is said to make the skin glow.
SAGE
Wild sage was is found in Spain and was eventually brought to Latin America because of its multitude of uses. It is legendary for its numerous health benefits, including its powerful antioxidant properties on skin.
So there you have it. Packed with natural ingredients, but also, there is the clinical side. For example: H(ope)2O Moisturizing Serum Contains both low and high molecular weight hyaluronic acid to effectively penetrate the skin, helping to plump and moisturize.
What’s it all do? This baby is all about moisture and helps plump the skin to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles while providing a protective barrier on the skin for long-lasting hydration. Boom.
This has been my daily go-to:
I sat down with Ursula Diaz…
We dove deep into why this skincare works. As we were talking I was falling so in love with the line, I basically couldn’t wait to crack it all open and get busy testing it all out. So far, I love every product. I’ve been using them daily, my skin feels perfectly hydrated, I’ve had no reactions, and they feel great going on.
Ursula and her husband, renowned Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, Dr. John Diaz (we will be getting their practice on here too soon!) were dismayed by the lack of clean, results driven skincare on the market, when Ursula was pregnant with their daughter, Sage.
That’s when they decided to create: “a line of clean skincare products that was supported by science and inspired by nature and our roots. Our extensive backgrounds in skincare, plastic surgery, and beauty combined with the blessings of genetics provide the recipe for beauty that seems genetically blessed.”
The products are available on their Honor MD website. The gorgeous mist and cleanser are only $40 and $42 and I would grab that mist, my ‘go-to all day make me happy pick me up’, are a great way to get a feel for the line at an affordable price point. The get-to-work crew, Genetically Blessed and Hope2O are $185 and $95. They have an option where you can subscribe and save 10% too.
Excited for you to check out this line and please let me know what you think!!
How is it possible such a precious healing center is so close to me and it’s taken me months to get here? NO IDEA!
Anyway – let’s get right into this beauty. The ONLY true integrative wellness and treatment center in town.
VEDA is the perfect combination of holistic ancient modalities with a totally savvy modern flair.
The perfect balance of our physical and spiritual selves.
The treatments are a combo of Ayurveda, Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, Astro Psychology, Physical Therapy, Cupping, Hypnotherapy, Energy Healing, Physical Release Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy, Visceral Manipulation, and Diet Management for preventative measures and in healing the mind, body, soul.
Seriously, what else IS THERE?
“We are not your standard wellness center, our approach encourages the maintenance of health, strengthening the immune system, removing toxins and renewing energy by paying close attention to balance. Starting with a Consultation, our Therapists work with you to determine what internal imbalances may be causing discomfort, food sensitivities or intolerances, a sluggish metabolism, digestive issues, infertility or skin problems (just to name a few). Our Therapists use your test results to customize a dietary, physical and supplement protocol that fits your lifestyle to repair and balance your biochemistry to promote optimal health and happiness.”
I walked into this gem of a retreat nestled right across from Urth Cafe. It is so pretty, you’ll want to sit and chill and well, never leave. Especially after being greeted by the loveliest of women, warm and open-armed – clearly in the mode to give and share their expertise.
The Ayurvedic principles seek to balance the natural elements: Water, Air, Earth and Fire. I need this is spades.
Panchakarma is something I have been dying to do. It’s a daily commitment ( 5 to 7 days) and this is the only place in town that offers it.
“This traditional healing system promotes deep relaxation in the mind while balancing the entire nervous system. All treatments integrate herbal oils from traditional recipes and are prescribed according to your specific body and mind type. Panchakarma also includes a unique diet program and counseling, basic yoga therapy, herbal teas and recommendations on herbal supplements. Panchakarma can be effective for addressing acute ailments and is highly recommended on a yearly basis as a comprehensive part of health maintenance to promote longevity, beauty along with overall mental health and wellness. Private consultations with our professional certified practitioners, will determine your mind / body type to create a unique Panchakarma health program for you. Pancha Karma programs are designed to various health care needs from preventative health, for weight reduction, sleep issues, stress and even toxicity.”
BENEFITS
• Detoxification of the body’s of impurities
• Fat reduction, weight loss and reshaping.
• Improvement of skin clarity and luster
• Enhance sleep, increases rest and energy
• Improve digestion, reduce bloating and eliminate constipation
• Peace of mind, clarity and reduce stress
• Balance emotional swings • Improve memory and concentration
DURATION
About 2.5 – 3 hours per visit
INCLUDES
• Abhyanga
• Svedhana
• Shirodhara
• Nasya
• Marma Chikitsa
(Acupressure Therapy)
• Basti
(Enema therapy)
• Postural Yoga
• Diet and Herbs
Therapies are determined on an individualized basis and will vary for each person.
All Panchakarma programs are customized accordingly to the needs of each individual’s mind / body complex.
Session Duration – 150 – 180 Minutes
Panchakarma – 14 Day Detox Cleanse – Regular price$6,295
Alas, for now, I had the pleasure of experiencing this treatment and it was total freaking heaven. I had it with 4 hands. Yes. Four. HANDS!!! Below I grabbed some other treatments from their site – but mostly I just urge you to go for yourself. It’s such an amazing, different approach and a gorgeous alternative to the med-spa life we have all gotten so accustomed to.
Two Hand Abhyanga & Swedan
Abhyanga and Swedana therapy begins with Abhyanga, a rhythmic gentle body massage that uses warm medicated herbal oils to stimulate the circulation of blood, lymph, and prana (energy). After this relieving massage, you will enjoy Swedana, a herbal steam tent that removes toxins from the cells, stimulate lymph movement, improves circulation, detoxifies, relieves stiffness, loosens muscles and helps skin tone. This treatment combination improves blood circulation and reduces stress while nourishing the skin and opens up blockages.
Duration – 70 Minute
Ayurvedic Face Lift Massage
This Natural Face Lift Massage & Facial Rejuvenation is an anti-aging technique based in Ayurveda and is a gentle face massage that relaxes the facial muscles and stimulates the marma points (Energy Points) which helps remove physical and emotional energy blockages. It increases facial micro-circulation, lymph flow and, the natural metabolism of the skin tissue, thereby promoting regeneration of healthy, younger looking skin, as well as; improving the skin’s natural capacity to retain moisture. Through the use of warm fragrant oils and strokes, this treatment not only leaves the skin feeling smooth, glowing and revitalized, but also, relaxes the mind. Combining outer beauty and inner balance.
Duration – 60 Minutes
Visceral Manipulation / Craniosacral Therapy with Accupressure
The first part of the treatment will include a visceral massage that focuses on your abdominal organs such as liver, kidneys and intestines. This gentle manual therapy aids your body’s ability to release restrictions that cause pain and dysfunction. The second half of the treatment will include a gentle touch craniosacral therapy. During this part of the treatment you’ll experience a wave-like rhythmic pulse that goes through the entire body which helps to heal musculoskeletal diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Autism, Neck & Back pain, colic, migraine headaches and central nervous system disorders.
A deeply relaxing Third-eye Therapy where a stream of Ayurvedic herbal medicated warm oil is poured continuously over the forehead to promote physical and emotional balance. It calms the central nervous system as it opens up blocked energy channels. Benefits of this treatment include imbalances, stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Promotes circulation and detoxification giving you a peaceful state of mind.
I love discovering unexpected gems in my hood. West Hollywood, to be exact. BIJOU BEAUTY
is one such gem. Clean, bright and feminine, they have a tidy menu of facials, face waxing, microblading (have not tried any) but it seems as though their lash extensions and lash lifts are all the rave.
That being said, lash extensions are the one thing that make my face all come together somehow. Like little frames around my eyes – without the mascara smudge that was my life all year. After a two year hiatus, I wanted to get back in the lash game. I was tired of looking…tired. Or just – lifeless.
I walked over – YES WALKED – and was greeted by a lovely staff and especially lovely Patricia.
Thank the lash gods for Patrica. She totally knows her lash game and gave me the most perfect set of natural, light, not too long, just right length extensions. A week into them and I have not lost one. They FEEL amazing. And her goal was to repsect the health of my very VERY short and fine natural, mostly non-existent lashes. Welp, now I’m hooked. I look and feel like a different person.
At Bijou, they don’t mess with junk, cheap synthetic lashes. They use silk lashes as the preferred lash material and also offer Siberian Mink (cruelty-free of course).
Of course you can pick your style:
CLASSIC EYE – CAT EYE – WHISPY-EYE – DOLL-EYE
FULL SET
$150
CLASSIC FULL SET
One extension applied to one natural lash, the look is natural with an added depth and length to define and shape. (Siberian Mink – 250)
$225
HYBRID FULL SET
The perfect blend of 50% classic lashes with 50% volume lashes. This look is ideal if you want some added glamour but don’t want the look of full volume. (Siberian Mink – 325)
$300
VOLUME FULL SET
Extremely light lashes for volume are applied, 2-4D fans are hand-made on each natural lash creating a full & fluffy look. This style gives you some drama, and is much thicker than your natural lashes. *Only select artists are available to perform this technique, please call to schedule.
HOUSE CALL
Need a professional lash artist to come to you? Call our front desk concierge for more information.
This replaces what has been lost as natural lashes shed and replenish themselves. *Client needs 50% of extensions remaining to be considered a fill. (Siberian Mink – 135)
$125
HYBRID FILL
Lash extensions are replenished with a mix of Classic and Volume lashes. *Client needs 50% of extensions still remaining to be considered a fill. (Siberian Mink – 175)
$160
VOLUME FILL
Lash extensions are refreshed and replenished with volume lashes where needed. Client needs 50% of extensions remaining to be considered a fill. *Only select artists are available to perform this technique, please call to schedule.
OUTSIDE FILL
Coming from another salon? We’ve got you covered. You must have 50% of extensions remaining. *Inquire with our front desk concierge for pricing, please call to book.
ADD-ON’S/CUSTOMIZE
+ 15 Fill / $25 Full Set
ACTIVE LASH
This proprietary adhesive is used for that active hot yoga girl. Lashes are adhered with a waterproof, sweat-proof and oil resistant adhesive to improve retention for your active lifestyle.
+ 40 Fill / $80 Full Set
VOLUME BOOST
Love the drama but don’t want full volume? Add on a boost of extra volume to your classic lashes to create a more dramatic yet natural look.
$30
LASH REMOVAL
Professional eyelash extension removal to safely remove the extension from your natural lashes whenever you’re ready.
A Lash Lift is a perming method to open and define your natural lashes. Lift your straight/downward/slightly curled lashes to open the eye and create a more lengthy and youthful appearance. Lasting around 8 weeks, this is an easy low maintenance solution to define your natural lashes! No extensions are used in this service, add a lash color to enhance your lash lift.
LASH LIFT
Lash Lift is a safe, natural looking alternative to eyelash extensions. Lashes are lifted up and curved. Hello to a younger sexy wide eye.
SAFE FOR THE LASHES
All Lash Artists are licensed estheticians/cosmetologist and have advanced lash training. Using only the highest quality products, this safe service is your ultimate answer for lifted, natural lashes. No one has ever had an allergic reaction, and the process is gentle on the lashes.
LASH LIFT & COLORING
$100
LASH LIFT
Natural lashes that are straight or even grow downward are permanently lifted or curled for an open eye look. This process lasts up to 8 weeks or until the natural lashes replenish themselves and it’s time for another lift!
$150
LASH LIFT & COLOR
The lift with the added benefit of color to the natural lashes, giving you added length and depth. This process lasts up to 8 weeks or until the natural lashes replenish themselves and it’s time for another lift.
$50
LASH COLOR ONLY
Forget mascara, color the natural lashes and have glossy end-to-tip lashes that last around 2-4 weeks.
$40
BROW COLOR ONLY
Color your natural brow hair, and have natural rich hair that lasts around 2-4 weeks. Color is customized to compliment your hair color/skin type.
We loose our lashes naturally 3-5 lashes per eye, per day. Regular fills are highly recommended every 2-3 weeks to maintain the fullness of your fabulous lashes.
All Lash Extension Artists are licensed estheticians/cosmetologist and have advanced lash training. Using only the highest quality products, this safe service is your ultimate answer for longer, thicker, beautiful eyelashes.
…pretty little things
7974 Santa Monica Boulevard,
West Hollywood, CA, 90046, 3233662983
Here’s the thing. There is something going around the web and gram and it’s called EVERYONE IS STARTING TO LOOK ALIKE AND IT’S CREEPY AF!!!
You know what I mean – the Joker looking over filled checks and arched brows and lips, dear lord – stuffed to the point of exploding. It’s truly shifting the look of young women everywhere and the new beauty ideal is this singular vision of a Jenner/ Kardash.
I have never ever subscribed to this look – nor do my readers. We want to look refreshed as we age gracefully. We are not out to disguise our faces with a mask of fillers and Botox but to enhance our natural beauty and soften some of the more aggressive signs of aging that make us look angry (between brows) or sad (heavy frown lines, etc).
What makes the process worse, is walking into a med spa or derm office to have some touch-ups, and having your practitioner look like one of the clones! To me this reeks of bad taste.
There are only a handful of injection masters who don’t look like a poster child for Fillers Gone Wild. And these are the people I will only recommend. It speaks to discretion and taste. It tells me this is someone who understands unique beauty.
And, I just met another. Jennifer Hollander of AuraHealing Spa. This is a new place next to Dr. Ben Talei’s office. You recall he did my Profound way back when.
Jennifer is helming this amazing project – part med spa, part bio-hacking spa, all HEALING.
“Beauty and wellness begin with the elements that surround you. These elements are air, energy and water, if they are harnessed for their healing properties. Each element can have an incredible impact on your skin and body when used in a therapeutic setting. At AuraSpa, world-class facial plastic surgeon Dr. Ben Talei and his team have designed a holistic approach to anti-aging and healing. The key elements of air, energy and water are used to improve beauty from the inside out.”
Jennifer is lovely, bright, has great taste and a great eye. She is up to date on all things SKIN and anti-aging. In my first session with her, we created an entire Spring skin regime. She has a kick-ass top notch resume – there’s a reason Dr. Talei chose her to helm his incredibly special new spot.
Scroll down to read more about Jennifer and AuraHealing Spa.
I had a Dermalfusion to totally shed and restore and Allumera to tighten pores. We did some V Beam on my hideous leg veins before trying it on my face. I laid in the LightStim bed – HEAVEN!!
I pulled some stuff from their website to get a vibe. Hope you love as much as I do!
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Oh, here is my Spring beauty regime prescription from Jennifer:
Skin Care Instructions for Emily:
AM:
1) Obagi Foaming Cleanser
2) Trio (1-2 pumps)
3) Revision Intellishade SPF
PM:
1) Obagi Foaming Cleanser
2) Trio (1-2 pumps) or your favorite growth factor – (The Allastin product I spoke with you about today is out at the moment but is being ordered)
3) Tretinoin and Blender (See instructions) This is not to be used every night.
Plan of Care for Emily:
1) Dermal Infusion – let’s do 2, once every 2 weeks apart
2) Clear and Brilliant series
3) Allumera for Pores
4)Botox – forehead lines
5)V-beam for broken capillaries on nose and cheeks
Jennifer Hollander, MSN, NP-C is a board certified Nurse Practitioner with 9 years of experience working in both clinical and cosmetic dermatology. Prior to working in dermatology, Jennifer obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of San Francisco and began her career as a bedside nurse with acutely ill patients at Cedar Sinai Medical Center. While working at the hospital, Jennifer chose to further her knowledge and completed a Master of Science degree in Nursing from Azusa Pacific University. Jennifer’s transition from bedside nursing to aesthetic medicine stems from her personal challenges with acne and her desire to help patients of all ages with their skin. Jennifer is a best kept celebrity secret and skincare expert and her approach is best described as passionate and holistic. She appreciates the association between outward appearance and self-esteem and brings her clinical expertise and guidance in natural beauty to her practice. She believes in improving her patients’ best features and using them to bring balance and harmony to all areas of the face. Having worked in Beverly Hills for the past 9 years, she has worked with many high profile celebrities and has learned to administer cosmetic injectables both artistically and naturally. Jennifer is certified in ArqueDerma®️Artistic Restoration Lift®️a patented FDA technique that she offers to her celebrity clientele to create a youthful, aesthetically-pleasing look that highlights the person’s natural beauty. With her extensive background in dermatology, Jennifer specializes in treating acne, surgical scars, acne scarring, melasma and hyperpigmentation. Jennifer also has experience working very closely with the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) community and aids in the transitioning process using laser and facial feminization procedures. She is a member of American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
Jennifer Hollander, MSN, FNP-C Board Certified- Family Nurse PractitionerBeverly Hills Center for Plastic & Laser Surgery 465 N Roxbury Dr., Suite 750 Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Office: (310) 288-0641 Fax: (310) 275-3752
Every cell in our body relies on oxygen to sustain life. We harness pure, concentrated oxygen to breathe life into your body’s muscles, organs and tissues using a state-of-the-art hyperbaric chamber and ozone therapy. These non-invasive treatments can heal the body and combat the natural aging process. High level oxygen therapy targets a wide range of concerns at a cellular level, delivering benefits such as improved sleep, energy and circulation as well as better elasticity and collagen in your skin.
Light gives a special energy that can have a profound impact on the body’s ability to repair itself and heal. Whether it is damage after an injury or the natural effects of aging, our advanced LED light treatments can work to turn back the hands of time and rejuvenate many systems within the body. A relaxing treatment over our cutting-edge LightStim LED bed sends multiple-spectrum light waves throughout your body to provide positive results in terms of aesthetics, wellness, anti-aging and healing.
What you put in your body has a powerful influence on how it functions, feels and looks. Our medical spa understands the key element that fuels the body best – water. We offer IV water drips that can be customized to include a wide range of healing nutrients and vitamins. Patients can receive IV therapy for slimming and detox as well as libido, fitness and more. In less than an hour, you’ll walk away feeling refreshed, renewed and restored.
NOT FEELING THE LOVE FOR YOUR SKIN’S AGING PROCESS?
Aura Spa offers hyperbaric oxygen therapy to give you the anti-aging benefits you deserve. If you’re looking to give your skin some love during this season of Valentine’s Day,…
