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From Cleopatra’s sharply defined eyebrows to Frida Kahlo’s iconic unibrow and Kim Kardashian’s “eyebrows on fleek,” brows have played a much more prominent role in history than most people realize. In this post, we’ll take a tour through the history of the most iconic eyebrow trends and the ladies behind them. Ancient Egyptian Eyebrows We start our brow history with none other than the iconic Cleopatra. In ancient Egypt, both men and women wore makeup for its supernatural powers. To pay homage to the god Hor us, people heavily lined their eyes and their brows. Ancient Egyptians darkened, arched, and elongated their brows by painting on carbon and black oxide substances — it’s safe to say that Cleopatra was the pioneer of the bold brow! Barely-There Brows of the Middle Ages Medieval women wanted all of the focus on their domed foreheads. So, they heavily plucked their brows — think of Mona Lisa’s barely-there eyebrows. But, that wasn’t enough! During the Elizabethan era, many women also dyed their brows reddish-brown in honor of Queen Elizabeth. The Needle-Thin Brows of the Roaring Twenties Clara Bow was the it girl of the 1920's, and women around the country set out to emulate her severely plucked and penciled in thin brows that dramatically extended to the temples — and the love for eyebrow pencils was born! Frida Kahlo’s Iconic Unibrow Mexican artist Frida Kahlo is perhaps best known for her unibrow and for being a bad@$$ feminist. During her era, women adhered to a strict beauty st andard, and Kahlo’s unibrow was a direct refute of the times. She said, “I will not restrict my self-expression in order to fit your idea of what a woman should look like.” Flash forward to decades later, and Frida’s unibrow is one of the most well-known and adored eyebrows in history. To achieve her iconic brow, Frida used special tools to “groove” her brows into place and even made them darker using an eyebrow pencil to fill in the spaces. Heavy Arches of The 40's Two decades later and thin brows were out and replaced with softer, less severe-looking, thicker brows modeled after actresses Lauren Bacall and Grace Kelly, who also sported prominent brow arches. The Plentiful Eyebrows of the 1950's The fuller eyebrow trend took off in the 40's and continued well into the next decade, with famous faces like Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, and Audrey Hepburn all sporting lush, immaculately trimmed and shaped brows. The Painted Brows of the 1960's Sophia Loren had the most famous eyebrows of the decade and a unique styling method to boot. Loren shaved her eyebrows completely before penciling them in with short strokes to secure a bold yet natural-looking appearance. The More is More Brows of the 80's Brooke Shields’ eyebrows are a national treasure. She led the resurgence of the natural bushy and bold eyebrow. Shields and Madonna were among the famous females that sported dark, brushed-up, and bushy brows. The Less is More Brows of the 90's Tweezers took center stage in the 1990's as women everywhere got very pluck-happy, tweezing their brows to the bone — we may have Pamela Anderson to thank for this! In fact, model Kristen McMenamy’s career skyrocketed only after she shaved off her brows. The Bold Brows of Today The bold brow is back, baby — and has been ever since Cara Delevingne debuted her perfectly imperfect brows on high fashion runways around the world. The full eyebrow trend eventually led to brow lamination — where the brow hairs have the ‘brushed up look.’ Giving Brows Fullness and Shape has been our speciality since 2016! The our team at Wink iBoutique is made up of St. Louis’ go-to brow experts. We offer it all, from microblading to powder brows, brow lamination, and henna brow — we’ve got something for every brow style! Book your appointment today. Image sources: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ancient_Egyptian_eyes_makeup.png https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20210211-the-detail-that-unlocks-the-mona-lisa https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clara_Bow#/media/File:ClaraBow2.1.jpg https://www.pexels.com/photo/creative-graffiti-wall-with-portrait-of-frida-kahlo-6424244/ https://www.pexels.com/photo/creative-graffiti-wall-with-portrait-of-frida-kahlo-6424244/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grace_Kelly https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/person/189524%7C46617/Elizabeth-Taylor/#overview https://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/person/116314%7C141476/Sophia-Loren/#overview https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brooke_Shields https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/pamela-andersons-marriage-dan-hayhurst-affair-ex-girlfriend-claims https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/makeup/advice/a3068/how-to-get-cara-delevingne-brows/

Keep Your Skin Merry and Bright This Holiday Season Believe it or not, the busy holiday season is upon us. From defrosting turkeys to making Christmas cookies and attending a plethora of parties, this time of year is busy — to say the least! This leads a lot of us to skip out on our skincare routines. In this post, we’ll go over a few quick and easy skincare tips to ensure your skin stay glowing this holiday season. #1. Wash Your Face! We told you these tips would be quick and easy! But, seriously, washing your face is the easiest way to ensure your skin stays clean, smooth, and free from buildup of oil, dirt, sweat, makeup, etc. Make it a point to wash your face every night, no matter how tired you are or how many pieces of holiday candy you’ve eaten — your complexion will thank you! #2. Moisturize The cold late fall and winter air can wreak havoc on our skin, but the good news is that it’s nothing some daily moisturizing can’t fix. Make sure you add moisturizing to your daily skincare routine to keep flaky, chapped, dry skin at bay. #3. Add Some Skin Health-Boosting Foods To Your Diet We all know the holidays are a time to indulge in our favorite foods. But, did you know there are some Christmas foods that are actually good for your skin? Here are our top picks to add to your plate this holiday season: • Turkey: The high protein content of turkey helps our bodies produce more keratin and collagen. • Roasted chestnuts: Does it get more quintessentially Christmas than chestnuts roasting by the open fire? The good news is that chestnuts also happen to be packed with skin-healthy fatty acids that help protect the skin’s natural barriers and can even help reduce acne! • Cranberry sauce: Cranberries are jam-packed with antioxidants that work to combat the effects of skin-damaging free radicals. • Salmon: If your family celebrates with the Feast of the Seven Fishes, you’re in luck! Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, salmon can help regulate the skin’s natural oil production. What’s more, the Vitamin B12 found in salmon can fight dark spots and uneven skin tone. #4. Treat Yourself This holiday season, don’t forget to treat yourself! A quick morning or afternoon session at Wink will rejuvenate and renew both your skin and spirit! Scrub your holiday stress away with the newest addition to the Cosmedix line - Salted Peppermint Sea Scrub! This Cosmedix scrub is formulated with Himalayan Pink Salt to gently exfoliate and hydrate the skin, leaving your scalp, hair, and body soft and smooth. This scrub exfoliates away dead skin, creating an even complexion and relieving dry and dull winter skin. Smells absolutely amazing and available at both locations! #5. Give the Gift of Bright Skin We have ready-to-go skincare gift sets so you can give the gift of beauty this holiday season — for a loved one or yourself! The Cosmedix Brightening Boost Ultimate Glow Kit features two age-defying skincare products that work together to brighten the skin. L-Lactic Acid and Salicylic Acid work to gently exfoliate the skin for a brighter, even-toned appearance. Crystallized Vitamin C boosts results even more to create the perfect skincare cocktail for a bright-looking complexion that’s sure to have you turning heads at every holiday gathering you attend. The gift kit contains: • Simply Brilliant AM/PM | 24/7 Brightening Serum: This best-seller addresses skin discoloration with ten skin-brightening ingredients. • PURE C PM | Vitamin C Mixing Crystals: These crystals are a powdered form of Vitamin C that works to boost the results of serums and/or moisturizers. Formulated with 100% L-Ascorbic Acid to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, it also helps protect the skin from environmental stressors. Wink iBoutique Can Help You Attain a Holiday Glow A good skincare routine with supplemental peels and facials is truly the gift that keeps giving in the form of gorgeous and healthy skin. Give the gift of glowing skin this holiday season — to yourself, or a loved one — with a Wink iBoutique Gift Card plus complimentary wrapping! Book online here. #holidayskincare #holidayparties #glowingfortheholidays #winkstl #beautyblog #stlbeautyblogger

Benefits of Radiofrequency Microneedling — The Next Level in Microneedling As fall approaches and we spend less time out in the sun, what better time to focus on your skin and repairing some of that summer damage? Radiofrequency Microneedling at WINK is a way to do just that fairly simply. Keep reading to learn more about the process. What is Radiofrequency Microneedling? We like to refer to Radiofrequency Microneedling as the next level in Microneedling. The process uses the added technology flow of needles to deliver radiofrequency energy into the skin. The radiofrequency energy heats the skin, which causes collagen production and tissue tightening. How Does Radiofrequency Microneedling Work? During the treatment, 24k microneedles are inserted into the skin a few millimeters apart in order to deliver radiofrequency energy into the skin for a few milliseconds. The skin that grows back is smoother, thicker and tighter, which can target: • Wrinkles • Fine lines • Stretch marks • Cellulite • Loose, sagging skin • Large pores • Hyperpigmentation • Acne scars • Scars from surgery or injury Benefits of Radiofrequency Microneedling Some of the most significant benefits of Radiofrequency Microneedling include: • Naturally repairs, smoothes, brightens, and rejuvenates the skin • Combines two powerful skin treatments • Improves the appearance of atrophic scars • Scientifically proven and FDA cleared as safe and effective • Results are progressive • Stimulates collagen production and tissue remodeling • Suitable for all skin types • Less downtime • Improves the appearance of fine lines and deep wrinkles • Smoothes out stretch marks • The collagen regeneration properties work to treats sun damage by correcting pigmentation • Shrinks the appearance of enlarged pores • Helps with loose skin on the face and body “Am I a good candidate for Radiofrequency microneedling?” Although microneedling is considered safe, it may not be appropriate for everyone. Ideal candidates for RF microneedling are: • In good health • Displaying early signs of aging • Expecting realistic results On the other hand, you should avoid the treatment if: • Current or recent Accutane use • You have an active cold sore breakout • You have a skin infection • You have a moderate to severe skin disease, like psoriasis • You receive chemotherapy or radiation treatment • You are pregnant • You take anticoagulants • You have a history of keloids, hypertrophic scarring, or poor wound healing What to Expect During Radiofrequency Microneedling During the procedure, you can expect: • A trained provider will start by cleansing your skin. • A strong topical anesthetic will be applied to the treatment area about an 20 min before the procedure to minimize discomfort. • The microneedling device will make tiny punctures in your skin while the tip of the needle simultaneously releases radiofrequency waves into the skin. • A quick procedure — it takes about 20 minutes. • Finally, your provider will apply a serum solution to support cell regeneration. Radiofrequency microneedling is an excellent option for people looking to address acne scars and signs of aging. We recommend two to three treatments to see optimal results, which takes between three to six months. If you’d like to learn more about the procedure or schedule a treatment, contact us today! #radiofrequencymicroneedling #microneedling #rfmicroneedling #skintightening #stlouisskin

Cupping, the Asian Method for Lymphatic Drainage is NOW AVAILABLE at Wink iBoutique Traditional Asian medicine has brought us some of today’s top beauty and wellness gems — from anti-aging herbs and teas to jade rolling and turmeric. If you’re always looking for the latest trends to try that will have you feeling and looking your best, you should try cupping! What is Cupping? Cupping was developed thousands of years ago by the Chinese and Egyptians. It is a healing therapy that uses plastic, glass, or bamboo jars on the skin to produce a vacuum that gently sucks the skin tissue into the jar. The cups suction the skin and help begin the process of toxin removal, alleviate pain, and boost the circulatory system. Cupping is also a very powerful lymphatic drainage treatment because it helps move excess fluids or toxins from the tissues — this draining is one of the main ways the body detoxifies. Cupping can be done on the face and/or body. What is the Lymphatic System? The lymphatic system is made up of lymphatic vessels connected to lymph nodes, where the lymph is filtered. Lymphs help rid the body of waste, toxins, and other unwanted materials. The body is home to hundreds of lymph nodes, and they are found deep inside of the body, including around the lungs and heart. They can also be found close to the surface, like under the arms or groins. Your tonsils, adenoids, spleen, and thymus are also all part of the lymphatic system. Why is this important? Well, the spleen sits right above the kidney on the left and controls red blood cells and storage and fights infection. The thymus is a small organ above the heart that stores young lymphocytes (specialized white blood cells) and equips them to become active T cells that help destroy infected or cancerous cells. The lymphatic system works to keep the body healthy by eliminating infections and diseases. Cupping’s Impact on Lymphs Regular lymph cupping can help improve immunity because increasing lymphatic output improves the immune system’s capability to detoxify the body and respond to stressors, such as disease, chemicals, stress, and environmental factors. Lymph stagnation can also lead to headaches that start as fluid pressure in the back of the neck. As cupping stretches the lymphatic vessels open, rather than closing them, the action increases lymphatic fluid movement locally and systematically with cumulative treatments thus relieving pain and pressure. Conditions Cupping Can Treat There are a number of health issues that respond well to cupping, including: Stress and anxiety Pain, particularly lower back pain Allergies Fatigue Colds Flu Muscle aches and pains Benefits of Cupping Cupping has been shown to: Increase oxygen-rich blood circulation Stimulate cells responsible for collagen production Relax muscle tension Strengthen the skin and connective tissues Because of these mechanisms, cupping is said to have the following benefits: Brightens the skin Minimizes the appearance of scars, fine lines, and wrinkles Tones the chin, jawline, neck, and décolletage Decreases skin puffiness Regulates oil production Improve nutrient delivery and product absorption Are you ready to start reaping the benefits of cupping firsthand? Schedule an appointment for our Cup & Tone facial or Curv Body Cupping at Wink iBoutique Town & Country today! #cuppingtherapy #stlcupping #facialcupping #facialcupping #stlcupping #facialcupping #lymphaticdrainage #stlspa

What You Should Know Before Getting a Fine Line Tattoo Fine Line Tattoos are all the rage these days as a popular and trendy way to convey a delicate, beautiful and meaningful message. Wink iBoutique is proud and excited to now offer Fine Line Tattoo at our Town & Country location, which is why we wanted to put together a guide about things to know before getting a fine line tattoo. What is Fine Line Tattoo? Fine line tattooing is made of distinct straight or fine curved lines using a slim nano needle. Most fine line tattoos are black or grey and emphasize form and outline instead of color, shading, and texture. Fine line tattoos have great levels of detail without being ‘loud.’ The tattooing style is done with a liner needle which often leads to less pain and more detailed options for design. Fine Line Tattoos Are Good Options for People Unsure About Tattoos The time spent sitting there while the tattoo artist works, the pain — these are all reasons why some people shy away from tattoos. If you want to dabble into the tattoo pond without committing to a large, colorful, attention-grabbing tattoo, fine line tattoos are the place to start. You can also pre-numb the area and go pain-free! Small, simple fine line tattoos are the perfect way to dip your toes into the tattoo pond as they are also much less painful even without numbing. A fine line tattoo can be placed anywhere on the body but, the most common areas are wrist, forearm, ankle, top of foot, and collar. Since fine line tattoos are less invasive, they also heal faster than filled in tattoos. Placement Matters If you want your fine line tattoo to last, it’s important to place it somewhere on the body where it will be protected from the daily wear and tear of life. Fingers are common spots for tattoos, but this area is not ideal for a lasting tattoo. Think of how often you wash your hands and use your fingers. Shoes rub against parts of the foot as well which can cause foot tattoos to fade faster. Washing and rubbing can cause damage to the tattoo, especially as it heals. This is why we aren’t fans of getting a fine line tattoo on high friction areas but, if you understand the upkeep involved with them, they are an option. Taking Care of Your Fine Line Tattoo Like with any tattoo, proper aftercare is a must for fine line tattoos. This means using sunscreen and avoiding direct exposure to the sun, moisturizing, and using tattoo aftercare products. These steps ensure your tattoo can heal properly and will stay beautiful and crisp for many years to come. Are you ready to learn more about fine line tattooing or schedule a fine line tattoo appointment? Bookings and quotes can be made by emailing Christina directly at info@winkiboutique.com. For more information on Fine Line Tattoo visit our tattoo page at www.winkstl.com #finelinetattoo #winkstl #tinytats #tattooblog #finelineart

We tend to associate dry, dull skin with the winter months. But, summer has a fair share of skin dangers and triggers as well, from sweat to pore-clogging SPF and harmful UVA and UVB rays. Microneedling is a quick and simple process that will have your skin glowing brighter than the August sun in no time, while also working to repair signs of sun damage. Keep reading to learn more about microneedling. What is Microneedling? Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that involves pricking the skin with tiny sterilized needles. The small wounds left behind cause the body to produce more collagen and elastin — compounds that heal the skin and help make you look younger. In fact, one study found that skin treated with four microneedling sessions spaced one month apart produced up to a 400% increase in collagen and elastin six months after completing treatment! Getting more elastin and collagen in the skin is particularly important as we age and sustain repeated sun damage. The UV light from the sun breaks down the collagen strands that support firm, youthful-looking skin. Elastin also gets depleted, which deprives the skin of plumpness and optimal moisture. After long summer days spent in the sun, microneedling is just what your skin needs to restore elastin, collagen, moisture, and its glow. Don’t worry; despite its name, the ‘needling’ part is relatively painless because your skin will be numbed with a topical cream before treatment begins. If you’re afraid of needles, you’ve got nothing to be afraid of with microneedling because you won’t even see the tiny needles built in to the interior of the microneedling pen. Benefits of Microneedling There are a number of benefits associated with microneedling, including: Reduces signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. Improves the appearance of scars from injury, surgery, and/or acne. Reduces the appearance of stretch marks. Safe and effective for all skin tones and types. Can be combined with other procedures for enhanced results. Shrinks the size and appearance of pores and oil production. Can be used on the face, neck, chest, and body to improve skin. Glowing skin. Improved skin elasticity. Decreased hyperpigmentation. Smoother makeup application. There are even more benefits associated with microneedling during the summer, including: No more need for heavy, pore-clogging makeup that just melts off in the sun or washes off in the pool. The confidence to rock makeup-free, glowing skin whenever you please. An all-natural glow that lasts all summer. Summer is an extremely busy and fun season, and we know the last thing you want to do is sit in a cold office for hours on end trying to achieve results. Microneedling sessions are quick — allowing you to sneak one in to your packed summer schedule. What’s more, the downtime is minimal, meaning you can get back to summer fun in no time. Unlike more complicated treatments like chemical peels, you won’t need to spend weeks protecting your raw skin as it peels off. Of course, you’ll still need to make sure you’re always sporting SPF, but you can get out and show off your new glow within a day or two after your microneedling treatment. Start Your Summer Glow Today! Are you ready to achieve glowing skin in time for your next summer gathering? Contact us today or book online to schedule your microneedling session! #winkstl #summerskin #microneedling #summerglow #skinisin #skincareritual

From Sugar Sag to Dairy Breakouts: How Our Diet Influences Our Skin Here’s a question we never thought we’d have to ask: “is sugar making your skin sag?” It turns out that sugar sag, dairy breakouts, and other diet-related skin conditions are impacting more and more people. This should come as no surprise as it has long been known that what we eat and drink are two of the most significant influences on our skin. Studies have found that healthier diets are linked to fewer signs of skin aging and disease. As summer approaches, it’s time for bare feet and bare skin, so if you’re looking to get your complexion perfect for those #nomakeup summer days, you’re in the right place. Preventing Sugar Sag Antioxidants are the key when it comes to preventing sugar sag. You can get your daily antioxidant fix from a wide variety of fruits and vegetables in addition to supplements. The next, more obvious step for healthy skin is to reduce your refined sugar and carb intake because it leads to glycation — a process in which sugar molecules bond covalently to proteins, lipids, or nucleic acids. When these byproducts accumulate in the skin it can cause the skin to become stiff and puffy because inflammation is another side effect of glycation — all of these factors contribute to saggy skin and wrinkles. What’s more, sugar breaks down collagen and elastin, leading to crows feet and fine lines — you may want to swap that summer nightly ice cream sandwich with some fresh fruit! Also, try incorporating more of these foods into your summer diet to avoid sugar sag and other sugar-related skin issues. Fresh berries Carrots, apricots, and other yellow and orange fruits and vegetables Tomatoes Beans, peas, and lentils Salmon, mackerel, and other fatty fish Spinach and other leafy greens Fish oil supplements Be sure to limit refined carbs and sugars, like white bread, sweets, white rice, sugary drinks, donuts, and so forth. Replace those foods with whole-grain carbs, hearty vegetables, and the wrinkle-fighting antioxidants found in fruit. Don’t forget to drink your water for hydrated, clear, and glowing skin and overall good health. Dairy and Breakouts Studies have known that dairy can trigger acne because of how it changes the way testosterone and estrogen are regulated in the body. But, it can also elevate the insulin-like growth hormone-1 (IGF-1), which can make acne even worse. What’s more, the proteins found in dairy include whey, which elevates blood insulin levels, and casein, which increases IGF-1 — both acne triggering and worsening factors. To find out if dairy is the culprit behind your breakout woes, eliminate it from your diet for a week or two and watch how your skin reacts. The good news is there are so many cow’s-milk alternatives on the market these days that you’re unlikely to even miss the real thing! Working on the inside to better your skin paired with a great skin maintenance plan for the outside is key! Our licensed skin professionals can assess your skin and make recommendations based on your skin goals. We offer many skin treatments including our signature HydroJelly Facial, COSMEDIX's facials and peels, Radio Frequency Microneedling, Dermaplaning, and coming soon.... CUPPING FACIAL for facial toning and lymphatic drainage. Need some help getting your skin summer-ready? We can treat acne, redness, dry skin, aging, swelling, saggy texture, and other common skin problems. #sugarsag #eatforgreatskin #skinnutrition #winkstl #skincare #clearskin #diet

Your Guide to Keeping Skin Healthy in the Sun As the days become longer, the sun shines brighter, and the birds chirp louder, it can only mean one thing— Spring has sprung! Warmer days and more time in the sunshine are just around the corner. But, before you head out to soak up the sun, don’t forget your sunscreen! SPF, UVA, Zinc— What Does it All Mean?? You may be thinking, “I know I should be wearing sunscreen, but I have no idea where to start!” We understand it can be hard to dissect which SPF is really the most effective and whether or not zinc makes a difference in sun protection, so let’s go over the basics. What is SPF? SPF is the measure of how much solar energy (UV radiation) is needed to produce sunburn on protected (with SPF or other coverage) skin relative to the amount of solar energy necessary to produce sunburn on unprotected skin. As the SPF value increases, sunburn protection increases. Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which will block 97 % of the sun’s UVB rays. You need to really sunscreen on yourself and your little ones at least every two hours or more during swimming, sweating and exercising. UV radiation can come from natural sources like the sun and artificial sources like tanning beds. The sun is the most significant source of UV radiation. UV rays are classified according to wavelength: UVA (longest wavelength), UVB (medium wavelength), and UVC (shortest wavelength). UVA rays are more penetrating than UVB rays, which means that they affect cells much deeper In the skin. UVA rays lead to premature aging and wrinkles and are associated with some skin cancers. The effects of UVA rays appear right away in the form of a suntan or sunburn. What is UVB? UVB rays cause damage to the outermost layer of the skin as well as directly damaging DNA. UVB rays are responsible for most skin cancers and also contribute to premature aging. Overexposure to UVB rays causes sunburns. Typically, UVB rays’ effects are delayed or appear a few hours after sun exposure. How to Fight UVB and UVA Rays? In order to fight both harmful UVA and UVB rays, you need to find a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection— meaning it has the ability to block UVB and UVA rays. Why is Zinc Important? You may notice “Zinc” on a lot of bottles of sunscreen, but what does zinc have to do with sun protection anyway? Research has found the ingredients in some chemical sunscreens can be absorbed into the blood. Zinc oxide is one of two sunscreen ingredients (the other is titanium dioxide) recognized as “safe and effective” by the FDA. Sunscreen’s Beauty Benefits We all know that wearing SPF is extremely important to protect our skin from damage and cancer, but SPF has some pretty impressive beauty benefits too, including: Fights signs of aging: UV rays cause the skin to undergo a process known as photoaging, which is responsible for the thick, leathery, discolored skin associated with sun damage. Photoaging also leads to a breakdown of collagen, contributes to fine lines, wrinkles, and saggy skin! What’s more, studies show that people 55 and younger who use SPF regularly have a 24% less chance of developing these signs of aging than people who don’t. Sunscreen helps maintain even skin tone: Did you know that your SPF can also help prevent discoloration and dark “sun spots?” This leads to smoother and more even skin tone. Protecting Your Skin in the Spring and Summer Months We understand that it’s not possible to avoid the sun entirely— especially if you have little ones who love the pool and their Saturday morning soccer matches. Here’s what to do to ensure protection for you and your family: Cover up Clothing can actually provide some protection from UV exposure. Try to find lightly colored, long sleeve shirts with thin fabrics to offer sun protection without too much heavy material that will lead to overheating. There are even some companies that specialize in UV-protection clothing. Hats are also perfect for protecting the face, ears, and sometimes shoulders (depending on your hat’s size) from the sun. Sunglasses are another option that offers UV protection to protect the sensitive skin around your eyes from sun damage. Stay in the Shade Try to limit your exposure to direct sunlight as much as possible by staying in the shade when you can. UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so it’s especially important during that time to find some shade. Wear SPF As we mentioned, you should wear an SPF of at least 30, and don’t forget to reapply every two hours or sooner if you are sweating or swimming. The bottom line is to fight signs of aging, keep your skin healthy and glowing, and prevent skin cancer; you need to be using a strong SPF daily. For any other skin concerns and questions, count on the skincare experts at Wink iBoutique. If the warmer weather still has you hankering for a healthy glow, we also offer spray tanning services in Town & Country, to achieve the glow of the sun without the damaging side effects. #spffacts #spfknowledge #winkstl #sunprotection #antiaging #spf

Spring Cleaning? Don’t Forget Your Skincare Routine! Spring has (finally) sprung, and you may be focused on cleaning out your garage, planting new flowers, and raking countless amounts of leaves from your pool. But, don’t forget to spring clean your skincare routine too. The new season is the perfect time to take inventory of your skincare products and throw away those products that you haven’t used in months or even years to make room on your counter and in your budget for some new, effective products and treatments that will have you kissing your dead, dull winter skin goodbye! Melt Away Dull Winter Skin with a Skin Renewing Peel Full-coverage foundation and warm spring days just don’t go together. Renew your skin with COSMEDIX facial peel and let your natural beauty shine through without the need to continually cover up your skin with foundations, powders, and concealers. The COSMEDIX Clarity Peel is the perfect tool to gently whisk away dull surface skin and leave you with a more even skin tone and texture. Formulated with a powerhouse of cutting-edge retinoids, 2% Salicylic Acid and botanical ingredients, the Clarity Peel adds a burst of much-needed balanced hydration to the skin while helping to minimize the appearance of acne for a complexion that looks vibrantly renewed. Usher in the New Season with a Renewed Focus on Your Skin We all know that it can often be hard to love the skin we’re in. The good news is, a few minor changes and commitments to your skin will leave you feeling more confident and radiant than ever before. At Wink iBoutique, we offer our COSMEDIX peels and facials in series of four peels— allowing you to stretch both your budget and commitment to self-care and healthy skin. Whether you want something light like a pomegranate or blueberry smoothie peel or something more heavy-duty like the Timeless Peel that contains 30% chirally corrected AGP Complex (L-retinol A) to generate immense activity in the skin, Wink iBoutique has got options for skincare needs and goals of all kinds. Supplement Your At-Home Spa with Professional-Grade Facials and Peels If you’re anything like us, your bathroom has been basically converted to an in-home spa during quarantine. If the pandemic and subsequent closures and restrictions have forced you to rely on (and start to love) at-home treatments, we recommend supplementing your at-home skincare masks, scrubs, and facials with a few professional services to achieve your best skin. Our HyrdroJelly Facial, for example, can be customized to meet your unique skincare concerns and goals. The masks are wildly popular due to their ability to lock in moisture and combat various skin conditions while leaving the skin with a refreshed barrier. They are designed to also be applied to the eyelids and lips, making this treatment a complete facial experience. Before the facial, our team of licensed skin professionals will assess your skin and create a custom facial designed especially for you. HydroJelly Facials include: A deep cleansing Dermaplaning to remove dead winter skin The curation of custom serums A rejuvenating light therapy session Dispose of Any Products You Haven’t Used in One Year Finally, it wouldn’t be spring cleaning without getting rid of some products you no longer use. Whether you’ve found new products after having ample time to research in quarantine, or your skin needs have changed— there’s no sense keeping that bottle of night cream in the back of your cupboard if you haven’t touched it in six months to one year. For all of your skincare questions, concerns, and needs, count on the licensed and experienced staff at Wink iBoutique— St.Louis’ skincare experts. #cosmedixskincare #clinicalskincare #resultsdrivenskincare #skinspastl #skinspecialists #winkstl

Does the cooler weather have you stuck in a rut with nothing to do but reflect on how pale you are? It's time for a spray tan! Spray tanning packs a number of skin benefits, including: A Sun-Free, Damage-Free Glow According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five American adults will have a skin cancer diagnosis by the time they are 70. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a major factor in the development of skin cancer. Repeated sun exposure can damage the skin over time and lead to skin cancer, wrinkles, skin discoloration, and noticeable sun damage spots. The bright side is you can still achieve beautifully bronzed skin without risking the adverse side effects of the sun when you choose a spray tan. Spray tans offer a completely UV-free way to get a summer glow year-round. Kiss Signs of Aging Goodbye In addition to increasing the risk of cancer and skin damage, regular UVA and UVB ray exposure can lead to premature aging of the skin. Sun exposure causes wrinkles, pigmentation marks, and rough leathery skin. The sun can also cause the skin to lose its natural elasticity faster and thus cause loose, sagging skin around the cheeks and jawline in particular. Why risk that when you can achieve a damage-less glow with a spray tan? Quickly and Painlessly Cover Up Skin Imperfections There's a reason some people live by the motto "if you can't tone it, tan it." A nice tan can cover up skin flaws, including stretch marks, cellulite, spider veins, and scars, in addition to creating a more even overall skin tone and a glow. A spray tan, especially on people with very pale skin, can even hide small pimples and other minor skin imperfections. Instant Results You don't have to wait until the sun comes back out and then spend days on end baking out in the sun to achieve a tan with a spray tan. Instead, you can leave with a bronze glow in as little as 10 minutes. Hydrate and Rejuvenate Your Skin At Wink, our VersaSpa Pro spray tan contains a blend of Chlorellagen, Mitostime, and Pheohydrane to detoxify, firm, rejuvenate and hydrate skin. Achieve an Even, Natural Looking Tan We've all been there: applying self-tanner to our skin with hopes of achieving a beautiful glow when in reality, we are left looking like a streaky, orange mess. Spray tanning produces even coverage with much less risk of streaking than tanning lotions do. This is because the spray tan uses a fine mist to evenly spray a tanning solution. Even better, spray tan technology has advanced past the orange glow spray tans of days past. Achieve an Instant Confidence Boost A lot of us feel more beautiful when we have a tan— and there's nothing wrong with that! A spray tan helps you achieve that post-beach glow without risking irreparable damage to your skin. So you can take the confidence boost that comes with a beautiful, glowing tan without worrying about skin damage. Ready to get out of your winter rut and transform yourself into a glowing, bronze goddess? Contact us today for a spray tan appointment. #versaspapro #winkstl #sunlesstanning #tanlife #getthatglow

Now that the first month of the year is over and the holidays are behind us, it’s time to get serious about your beauty resolutions for the new year. We all know that Missouri winters can dry out our skin and make it loose its luster and glow faster than you can say, “I need a facial!” That’s why we’ve compiled this post of our top tips and tricks to keep your skin hydrated and glowing all year long. Glowing Skin Tip #1: HydroJelly Facial Here at Wink, we specialize in a signature facial known as the HydroJelly Facial. HydroJelly Masks are all the rage these days thanks to their ability to lock in moisture while also leaving the skin with a refreshed barrier. A HydroJelly Facial at Wink is a customized experience. Our licensed skin professionals assess each client’s unique skin needs to develop a HydroJelly Facial formula that will work wonders based on each individual’s skin problems, concerns, and goals. Our HydroJelly Facial process includes a deep cleansing, dermaplaning to remove dead skin, and then applying custom serums while finishing with the grand finale of a rejuvenating light therapy session. Our Illuminating Orange HydroJelly Mask is the perfect answer to dull winter skin. Learn more about our HydroJelly Facial options here. Glowing Skin Tip #2: Microneedling If winter is sucking the life out of your skin, why not try a vampire facial AKA microneedling? Microneedling, made popular by Kim Kardashian, works to boost collagen in the skin, resulting in tighter, brighter, glowing skin. Microneedling can also be used to improve the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, deep wrinkles, red veins, sun damage, enlarged pores, and stretch marks. Glowing Skin Tip #3 Refresh your skin and take back your glow in 2021 with Dermaplaning Dermaplaning rejuvenates the skin by removing vellus hair and dead skin cells from the face. Excess vellus hair causes dirt and oil to buildup on the skin, removing it via dermaplaning is a quick and painless way to achieve baby soft and glowing skin. Glowing Skin Tip #4: Step into 2021 with a Natural Glow from a Peel Peels can be a bit intimidating. We’ve all seen that episode of Sex and the City where Samantha is left with a raw, red face after a chemical peel. The good news is, the peels at Wink are safe, gentle, and the perfect finishing touch to achieve glowing skin— even in the dead of winter. Peels are an excellent way to achieve instantly bright skin as they work to provide super exfoliation, hydration, and overall healthy, glowing skin. The best way to ensure your skin glows all year long is to ensure your skin is getting enough moisture via creams and facials, amp up your exfoliation via peels and make skincare and maintenance treatments a part of your regular routine. Don’t forget to stay hydrated by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day to achieve a healthy glow from the inside out. #hydrojellyfacial #skinimalism #nomakeup #flawlessskin #investinyourskin #glowingskin2021

As we get ready to kiss 2020 goodbye, many people are focusing on the new year and ways to better themselves, as always. As we continue to wear masks everywhere, eyebrows will continue to have a major moment in 2021. With that in mind, we have compiled our list of “brow year’s resolutions.” Brow resolution #1: Elevate your look with laminated brows Laminated brows took center stage on runways and Instagram feeds everywhere in 2020, and it’s a trend we only see becoming more popular in 2021. Brow lamination is a process that smoothes out thinning eyebrow hair, giving it a bit of a vertical lift, leaving you with super-smooth eyebrows. Eyebrow lamination is excellent for people dealing with gaps in their eyebrow hair, thinning, unruliness, or over-plucking their eyebrows. Brow resolution #2: Say goodbye to the eyebrow pencil with microblading Filling your eyebrows in every morning with an eyebrow pencil or gel is soooo 2020. Give yourself the luxury of sleeping in an extra 10-20 minutes in 2021 when you opt for eyebrow microblading. Microblading uses a semi-permanent tattoo process to create natural-looking eyebrows for people with very little to no brow hairs. The procedure fills in brows and gives you a more defined look without needing to spend hours per week filling in your brows yourself. Brow resolution #3: Manicured brows In recent years, natural eyebrows have dominated, allowing people to go for longer periods between brow appointments. But, the trend for 2021 is shifting towards eyebrows that are more manicured. Don’t worry, it won’t be anything like the pencil-thin, over-plucked eyebrows of the past. But, you will want to schedule more frequent eyebrow maintenance in the new year to tame those bushy babies. Brow resolution #4: Condition and grow your brows with natural oils Whether you are trying to grow your brows out before getting them laminated or bring them back to their pre-overplucking shape, you likely have what you need for lustrous eyebrows in your kitchen pantry! You can use coconut oil to add some moisture and condition your eyebrows, and castor oil can help them grow. We also recommend adding a little bit of Vitamin E oil for an extra boost of antioxidants and conditioning properties. Use your oil of choice two to three times a week on clean skin and brows. To apply, we recommend using a disposable mascara brush or your fingers. Brow resolution #5: Complete your brow look and wake up red carpet ready with lip blushing From microblading to eyelash extensions, we are going to continue to see the permanent makeup trend that allows us to “wake up like this” continue to grow in 2021. With lip blushing, you can wake up with kissable lips. By implanting beautifully colored pigments into the uppermost lip tissue using a highly advanced permanent cosmetics machine, we can redefine the lip borders and add a flush of color to bring life back into the lips. As we all hold our breath and hope for a significantly better 2021 than 2020, walk into the new year feeling beautiful and confident with Wink iBoutique, your St. Louis lash and brow bar. Contact us today to book an appointment or find out more about our services. We can’t wait to hear from you! #bye2020 #hello2021 #NYE #newyearnewme #winkstl