Spa Notes

Dry brushing for beautiful skin

2012-01-31T09:12:00.000-08:00

Merben Sisal Body Brush (also available without handle)

It takes only minutes a day, but its results are long lasting.

Dry brushing the skin improves the circulation, and stimulates the lymphatic system to more effectively remove toxins. Over time, this can improve the immune response and help us keep healthy. Dry brushing also delays skin aging. As we age, our bodies become less effective in shedding outer layers of dead skin cells. This build-up of dead skin can result in a thick, dry and somewhat leathery look, particularly on the back of the arms. The act of brushing removes older, keratinized skin cells, and encourages the skin's basal layer to produce more fresh, new cells. In this sense, dry brushing is rejuvenating. In addition to exfoliating this outer layer, dry skin brushing also stimulates the sweat and oil glands, helping to keep the skin more moist. It also helps keep young skin fresh, vibrant and free of breakouts. Some women say that regular, daily brushing can help control cellulite.

As well as exfoliating the outer layer of the skin, dry skin brushing also stimulates the sweat and oil glands, more effectively removing toxins and allowing the skin to better retain needed moisture. It can also help keep young skin fresh, vibrant and free of breakouts.

When dry brushing your skin, it is important to use the right brush. A back-scrubbing bath and shower brush is not as effective as a natural fibre brush designed especially for dry brushing.

Most people choose to dry brush right before their shower or bath. When beginning to dry brush, you should leave a couple of days in between brushings. You can then work up to three or four times weekly, or even every day if you choose.

How to dry brush effectively

1. Beginning with your feet, moving in gentle circular motions, moving towards the heart. Some people prefer to brush in longer, more sweeping strokes towards the heart, so experiment to see what feels best to you. You might prefer to do long, sweeping strokes on the arms and legs, and smaller circular motions everywhere else. Begin with the soles of the feet, and then the insteps.

2. Brush each leg, one at a time, first the back of the leg, then over the derrière. Move the brush to the front of the leg and repeat, up to your groin. If you have very delicate skin on the inner thighs, use a lighter touch and fewer brushings.

3. Now, you'll dry brush the hands and arms, again one at a time, starting with the palms and back of the hands and moving up both sides of the wrist, forearm, and upper arm. Pay particular attention to the back of the upper arms, which often have rough, dry skin that requires more attention.

4. Next, dry brush your back, from the shoulders down to the waist, one side at a time. Now move to the front of the trunk and, beginning at the groin, gently work upwards to the neck, being very careful of the nipples.

5. Shower or bath as usual.

Tips for better brushing

■ Avoid sensitive areas like the face and neck. Most dry brushes are too rough for fine, sensitive skin.

■ Use a brush designed for the purpose of dry brushing the bikini line to help prevent ingrown hairs. Spa Utopia carries the Merben Bikini Brush—with soft jute bristles that won't cause irritation.

Merben Bikini Brush

■ Dry brushing in the shower, with the water turned off, is a good idea to prevent skin cells from landing all over your bathroom! When you're finished, simply shower off.

■ Brush for a total of 3 - 5 minutes.

And for a change of pace...

Don't forget our wonderful Spa Utopia Body Scrub & Polish! This gentle body exfoliator will leave your skin feeling silky smooth and touchable. (So get working on your skin today to be super soft for Valentine's Day!)

The natural pumice in this formula gently sloughs off dead skin cells to reveal fresh new skin underneath, while Moor Mud hydrates and detoxifies, leaving you fresh and moisturized. Hemp Seed Oil in the formulation further protects your skin from dryness, leaving it silky and comfortable.

Spa Utopia Body Scrub & Polish

Spa Utopia introduces Bella Contour

2012-01-17T08:51:00.000-08:00

As featured in InStyle magazine

Non-surgical body contouring—also known as body sculpting—has become increasingly popular in recent years. It allows a person to smoothe cellulite, reduce pregnancy fat, enjoy tighter skin and achieve smaller body circumferences, without diet or exercise and without invasive surgical techniques like liposuction.

You can trust Spa Utopia to bring you the very latest treatments to help you reach your ideal body shape. But first, we must be sure that the treatments we offer are both comfortable, safe and effective.

This is why we have been watching the Bella Contour non-invasive cellulite and fat reduction treatment system very closely... and are now making this exciting new service available to you.

Bella Contour offers the ultimate body contouring experience—non-invasive, painless circumference reduction that delivers real, measurable results from the first session!

One thing that none of us can achieve through diet and exercise alone is losing fat inches where we need to. But now this is possible. Safe and painless Bella Contour technology and body contouring allows you to target stubborn fat below the neck, including the abdomen, hips, buttocks and thighs. So women can say goodbye to unsightly muffin tops and men to love handles and excess fat deposits on the pectoral (breast) area, as well as diminish annoying fatty tissue elsewhere on the body. Even better, say thousands of happy Bella Contour customers, is the fact that skin texture is significantly enhanced, and the orange-peel texture of cellulite greatly reduced.

This client achieved a 5cm loss in body circumference
after just five sessions.

So how exactly does this impressive reduction treatment work?

Bella Contour employs three distinct technologies to help you achieve targeted fat loss: resonant ultrasound, interferential (electric field) therapy and vacuum massage. The treatment stimulates fat cells, causing them to release fatty acids which are then removed from the body as part of the natural metabolism. This mimics the natural physiological processes that occur during exercise. The difference is, the Bella Contour targets specific zones, allowing you to choose where you lose inches. The procedure is completely painless and the device FDA and CE approved. Best of all, it has been shown to achieve a reduction in body circumference of at least 4cm in 92 per cent of clients, with recorded losses of up to 16 cm.

The Bella Contour

We at Spa Utopia are so sure you will be thrilled with your results, that we guarantee them. Financing is available through Medicard, on approved credit. You can read more about Bella Contour here (and link to Medicard if you wish).

And...

Be sure to watch for our eBlast the morning of Tuesday, January 17, for our special introductory offer:

Introductory Bella Contour session regular cost $375 (before taxes)

Special pricing $150 (before taxes)

(a savings of 60%).

This offer is only available for a limited time.

James Riyad wins Davine's 2012 World Wide Hair Tour

2012-01-13T11:41:00.000-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS to Spa Utopia Langley Salon Director, James Riyad, on placing FIRST in the 2012 Davine's World Wide Hair Tour. You can read more about James' participation in the competition here and in this article in the Langley Times. (Article was published just prior to James' win.) Well done, James. We're so proud of you!

Guest referral program rewards both—or all—of you!

2012-01-08T18:34:00.000-08:00

If there's one thing we're truly grateful for, it's the way YOU, our loyal guests, like to "spread the love" about your favourite spa!

So, we'd like to give you a little something in return for those referrals you make to family and friends...

Starting today, for every new guest referred to us by an existing guest, both the new and referring guest will receive $25. to apply to spa treatments or retail products.* You can find our printable referral forms on our website. All you need do is fill your forms in and give them to those you know would love a treatment at Spa Utopia.

Here's an example of how this works:

June knows that her sister and two friends would love to have a Signature Pedicure as they have been admiring her toes over the party season. She prints out three referral forms, fills in her information, and shares these with the proposed guests. All three think this is a great idea, and each books an appointment.

When June's sister and friends arrive for their services, the Guest Services Representative confirms they are new guests, then ensures they receive a $25 credit. Within 30 days of each new referral's spa appointment, June receives an e-mail coupon for $25, and enjoys a total of $75. in Spa Utopia credits for recommending three new guests. (What's not to love?)

We look forward to helping you share good times—and exemplary spa services— with those you care about, very soon!

* Some conditions apply. Please see referral form.

'Tis the season to be stressing...

2011-12-13T08:12:00.000-08:00

Spa-la-la-la-la,la-la-la-lah! OK, that’s a littleoverdone, but we hope we help out a little with all that bad-for-you stressthat inevitably accompanies all the seasonal festivities and fun.

At thistime of year, while pretending to not be listening to the riveting gossip atoffice parties and various soirées, it’s not that hard to hear someone suddenlyshriek, “OMG I forgot Aunt Alice!” or “What in heaven’s name can I buy mysister that she doesn’t already have three of?” We are pleased to tell you that we have a host of last-minute gift ideasthat will look like you’ve been planning assiduously for a very long time.

But back tothat stress...

We all knowthat stress ages us and contributes to the development of a number of diseases,as well as wrinkles and prematurely greying hair. So anything we can do to reduce that stressis a good idea, for our bodies, minds and souls.
Here are afew suggestions:

• Don’tforget to “gift” yourself with a Spa Utopia treatment. Snuggle into a fluffy white robe, sip oursignature Rooibos Cocktail and happily await your massage or pedi. (And ponderon all the good you are doing yourself and others by de-stressing...)

• After your treatment, wander around our SpaShop and see how we can fill in the gaps in gift-giving. We have Bra Bags and Panty Paks for the specialwomen in your life, must-have skincare,and cosmetic items, Warm Buddies for children (as well as adults) on yourstill-to-buy-for list and a host of items for the guys, including our supersoftSignature Bath Robe (available in adult, child and king sizes). And for the really,really tough to buy for? Just ask for a Spa Utopia Gift Card—perfect for giftgiving in its festive red envelope. Here are a few more suggestions for stand-alone gifts or well-priced stocking stuffers:

• Jane Iredale Chocoholics four lipgloss gift set - (Blood Orange, Very Berry, Espresso and Chili Pepper) • SpaRitual® vegan nail lacquers in a variety of gorgeous colours and finishes • Get Naked Massage Oils with ylang ylang & patchouli or horny goat extract • All natural Spa Utopia soaps in green apple, coconut, lavender and lemongrass • Spa Utopia soy candles, beautifully scented for every mood, in Dawn, Reaffirmation, Perpetual Rise or Elevate • Spa Utopia Canadian Therapeutic Mineral Salts.

• Whenthe weather turns dreary, it’s easy to want to stay inside. This isn’t a good idea. Walking in the rain, provided you are suitably attired, is a great de-stresser and great for the skin. (Not sofor your hair? Then make sure you cover your locks inside some snappy headgear.) Breathe deeply and think how fortunate you are to be living in the midst of a real rain forest. Remember too thatkeeping physically active will ward off seasonal weight-gain.

• De-stress at home in a Spa Utopia Pine Mud Bath (the 32 oz size is currently 50% off at all Spa Utopia locations). This fabulous formula draws toxins from your skin and smells utterly dreamy!

• Make sure you get enough sleep. Partying into the wee hours plays havoc with your skin and your sanity. Remember that to properly process alcohol, your body needs twice as much water, so sip away at the sparkling H20 between those glasses of Chardonnay.

• Finally, think of others who may not be so fortunate as to receive any gifts this year. Giving charitably is not only good for therecipient, but also the giver. (Yes, we hate to belabour the "studies say" angle, but studies do indeed say that giving to those in need boosts the immune system in ways we don't yet understand.)

The Festive Season is oh so close!

2011-11-27T14:49:00.001-08:00

Is it really less than a month 'til Christmas? Are we really just a week or so away from party time, with its strappy sandals, skin-skimming dresses and on-display nails? As daunting as that thought might be, it's true—and so it's time to start shaping up, sprucing up and putting on the Ritz! This pre-holiday season, Spa Utopia has lots to offer to help you prepare for party time. Here are a few suggestions. (And don't forget how much you'll enjoy sipping our signature Rooibos Cocktail in your fluffy white bath robe, instead of all that dashing through the snow!)

Universal Contour Wrap

The Universal™ Contour Wrap is the inch loss treatment that guarantees you will lose at least 6 inches in just two hours, or have nothing to pay. (And, provided that you do not gain weight, you'll sustain a minimum 6" loss for at least 30 days, or receive a free treatment.) This makes this treatment perfect when you have to shape up for that important holiday event! Best of all, the wrap does not rely on water loss to achieve its amazing results.

News Flash! This week, we are offering special pricing for the Universal™ Contour Wrap.

The regular price for this spa treatment is
$239. ( plus taxes )

Buy it today & you'll pay only
$155.35( plus taxes )

(That's a saving of 35%!)

This special offer is only available online until Midnight Thurs. Dec. 01, 2011

Buy here.

While wrapped you'll also enjoy a relaxing facial cleanse, exfoliation and massage for the face as well as a soothing scalp massage!

Since this wrap is particularly popular just before the summer and before the Festive Season, we'd suggest you call as soon as possible to book. Then look forward to slipping easily into your party dress, with a little space to spare... you can read more about the Universal™ Contour Wrap here.

Smile FX Teeth Whitening

A whiter, brighter smile is an instant uplift and the perfect way to create an impression. White teeth make you appear younger and healthier, and feel more confident. Having the service at Spa Utopia offers the additional benefit of feeling completely cosseted as you do so.

Smile FX utilizes revolutionary cool blue light technology to whiten teeth faster and deeper. It is safe for tooth enamel and the #1 choice for people with tooth sensitivity. Convenient and easy to maintain, your first treatment comprises three comfortable sessions of just 15 minutes each. (If you want to maintain your sparkling white smile, you will need a touch-up treatment every two to six months.) You can read more about Smile FX Teeth Whitening here.

St. Tropez Spray Tan

While no one expects you to turn up to the office "do" in a bikini, you can still rock a faux tan as the snow falls. (Or perhaps you're off for a winter sun break, and would like to step off the plane with a splash of colour...) Either way, we can make it happen, with a St. Tropez professional spray tan.

The 15-minute full body procedure applies the special St. Tropez Tan formulation for a rich, natural-looking glow. The spray tan is applied by a trained Spa Utopia technician, for the most natural-looking result possible, without the risk of burning or the threat of dry, aged skin. You can read more about St. Tropez Spray Tan here.

Orly Gel FX™ Manicure (New!)

New at Spa Utopia, Orly Gel FX™ is no ordinary gel manicure system. The 3-in-1 Cleanser, Primer and Basecoat are power packed with a vitamin infusion. This revolutionary formula infuses nails with healthy ingredients for durability, strength and shine.

The gel is applied like a nail polish and lasts up to two weeks. Antioxidant vitamins A and E help to promote strong nails while provitamin B5 protects the structure of the natural nail. Curing is fast (just 30 seconds) and uses an LED light system, not UV. Gel FX™ is free from DBP, formaldehyde and toluene. You can read more about Gel FX™ application here.

SpaRitual® Vegan Nail Lacquers

An application of SpaRitual® Nail Lacquer after your Spa Utopia manicure or pedicure allows you to completely indulge your senses! Colour has the physiological power to soothe or seduce, nurture or ignite. By fusing the disciplines of colour therapy and numerology, SpaRitual® has designed a lush, shimmering palette of nail lacquers in a range of four dynamic harmonies. Each shade is associated with a unique message or meaning and numerological value. SpaRitual® colour experts have carefully hand-blended each hue for superior shine, dry time and coverage.

These exceptional lacquers are vegan and free from DBP, formaldehyde and toluene. (Hint: we LOVE the reds!) And here's a little incentive for you - purchase any SpaRituals® product from Spa Utopia and receive a FREE mini polish, while supplies last. You can read more about our Hand and Foot treatments here.

A New Spa Utopia and Salon Hair Style

What could make you feel more special, or your grand entrance more dramatic, than a fabulous "do" by one of our talented hair designers? If you really want to add oomph (and incorporate an instant facelift), consider an updo. Whether you want to channel Audrey Hepburn, or prefer a few loose ends, we've got you covered! And if you're not into updos, then an expert blow-dry will have you looking like the star you know yourself to be. Please call your local Spa Utopia salon to book an appointment.

Professional Makeup Application

Nothing makes a girl (of any age) feel more confident than having her makeup applied professionally. So this year, before that big event, why not book a professional makeup application at Spa Utopia? Especially popular after a cut and style, professionally applied makeup really does give you the edge, particularly if the shutterbugs (or Blackberry clickers) are in attendance. You can read more about our Professional Makeup Application services here.

So go rock your stuff and knock them dead, Party Girl... we'll be behind you every (perfectly pedicured) step of the way!

We all need a little tranquility!

2011-11-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

We all need a little tranquility in our lives, don't we? Especially when the shop windows are filling with holiday displays and we are reminded that there are only a few more weeks until the Big Day.
Studies show that the winter holiday season—and the weeks leading up to it—are the most stressful time of year. While most of us enjoy the holidays, few enjoy the running about associated with them, and find that much of the lead-up is one big headache. Stress, as we all know, is bad for both our hearts and souls, aging us beyond our years, and generally making life a drudge instead of the pleasure it was meant to be.

Although not a complete remedy for stress (which really depends on how well we react to the things that bother us), taking the time for ourselves on a regular basis can provide a sensation of anticipation and relaxation, which can help us control our responses to the stressors in our lives.

Perhaps one of the best de-stressors Spa Utopia has to offer, is our aptly-named Tranquility Wrap! This cocooning body treatment utilizes a unique oil-based formula with amaranth, rose, vanilla, cedar, palmarosa and orange, to encourage a deep sense of relaxation. This serene wrap both nourishes and protects the skin, leaving it supple and silky soft. The 70-minute treatment includes a facial cleanse and mask designed to prolong your pleasure and ensure you feel "personally pampered" from head to toe.

Please scroll to the end to learn about our current Tranquility special:

About the oils used in our Tranquility Wrap (and how you'll benefit from their use):

Amaranth

Amaranth oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is deeply soothing to the skin.

Rose

Rose oil has an uplifting, lightly astringent effect on the skin, making it feel soft and refreshed.

Vanilla

Vanilla oil is both brightening and relaxing, both in skincare and aromatherapy.

Cedar

Cedar oil is astringent and soothing for the skin, and has mild antiseptic properties.

Palmarosa

Palmarosa oil has regenerating qualities as well as helping the skin heal, and become blemish-free.

Orange

Oil of orange is both relaxing in aromatherapy and lightly bracing for the skin.

Become more tranquil!

Reg. price for our Tranquility Wrap is $137. ( plus HST)

Now specially priced at just $89.05 (plus HST)

...a savings of 35%!

Watch your inbox for our Tuesday morning e-Blast.

This offer ends at midnight Thurs. Nov. 17th, 2011

Spa Utopia Salon Director James Riyad at Davines' World Wide Hair Tour

2011-11-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

For Spa Utopia Salon Director, James Riyad, placing in the prestigious Davines' World Wide Hair Tour has been a longterm ambition fuelled by his passion for contemporary hair design. Among other events, the 2012 Hair Tour will feature 10 top stylists selected from thousands of talented contenders, who will compete for the title of top stylist in the World Style Contest. James has been selected as one of those 10 whose talents will be featured on the "big stage."

This is not the first time that James has entered the competition. He entered seven years ago and two years ago, both times placing first regionally.

"This year, I was determined to go the distance," he says. "Failure is not an option." (While no one would agree that placing first in the regional component was a failure, James' determination and ever- growing talent is a mark of what it takes to excel in today's highly competitive world of hair design.)

Competing in the Davine's World Wide Hair Tour requires an understanding of what hair styles best capture the essence of today's fashionable woman. James submitted four photos of Keana, his model and muse, her hair, clothing and makeup reflective of what he envisions as the spirit of contemporary womanhood. He was also required to submit a video of himself creating the style, and an explanation of what formed his inspiration.

James spent a whole year brainstorming ideas and putting together vision boards of what he wanted to achieve. After many, many meetings with his clothes stylist (Leila Bani), photographer (Greg Swales) and makeup artist (Spa Utopia's own Cheryl Sawyer), everything fell perfectly into place. The style and images are part of a collection created exclusively by James, called BAL:USION - a fusion of the disciplined movement and shapes of ballet and the freer, more playful imagery of clowns. (When James participates in the final during January 2012, he will present a completely different look—one that represents the essence of today's "Davines' woman.")

James Riyad

The Davine's World Hair Tour, 2012, will be held at the Fillmore, Miami Beach (Jackie Gleason Theatre) from January 8 - 11. Spa Utopia congratulates James on his participation and wishes him the very best!

And what about you? Fall is a time for change - just ask Mother Nature. It's a time when colour comes to the fore and hair styles take on a newer, crisper look after the more casual vibe of summer.

Fall is a great time for CHANGE. Maybe it's time for a new colour, a new cut, a new stylist, a NEW YOU!

Watch your inbox for our Tuesday morning e-Blast,

Purchase this online offer and receive

$100 worth of salon services for just $75 at all Spa Utopia locations.

SAVE $25

Thisspecial offer is only available online until Midnight Thurs. Nov.3rd, 2011

Not just a footnote

2011-09-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's that time again! With raindrops instead of sunshine hitting our toes, we can't seem to get them into gorgeous boots fast enough. And who's complaining? Boots are, after all, a West Coast signature look, whether casual, vampish or somewhere in between.

Of course, fall and winter foot attire is also the perfect excuse to ignore our feet for another couple of months—until the festive season starts and strappy, toe-revealing sandals are pulled from the murky depths of our closets, or (even better) toted home in brand new boxes. Then it's off to the fainting couch when we see what disasters were lurking underneath the safety of our socks...

To help you avoid this annual rite of passage, Spa Utopia would like to remind you that just because you can't see your tootsies, doesn't mean they aren't there. And we're betting that, just about now, they could do with a refresher pedicure. Before we get to our various options (and a really fabulous special), here are a few things you need to watch out for, if you want to maintain foot health and beauty throughout the colder months:

• The yukkies. Nasty things that develop when our feet are tucked into dark places include fungal infections of the toenails. The most common of these is known in medical circles as onychomycosis, (and among fastidious females as "that #$*!# toe thing again").

Onychomycosis loves dark, damp places like running shoes and boots that are worn all day and never aired. The best way to avoid it is to remove shoes and socks whenever possible, and to wear footless pantyhose. A light dusting of powder will help keep your feet dry and discourage fungal growth.

Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) is another fungal infection that thrives in dark, damp places and the same preventive measures apply. Both onychomycosis and athelete's foot affect both sexes, although men, being inveterate sock-wearers, experience athlete's foot more frequently.

If you are prone to fungal infections of the feet, we highly recommend Footlogix products, available in our spas and in our online store. #7 Anti-Fungal Cream is perfect for the prevention and treatment of athlete's foot, #7 Extra-Dry Skin Anti-Fungal Foam works miracles on dry skin that suffers from fungal infections, and #7 Nail Tincture is a wonderful toenail fungus prevention agent, with a little spout that reaches right under the nail!

When wishing to prevent fungal infections, it is also important to make sure that the spa that performs your pedicure has proper sanitation procedures. Spa Utopia adheres to the strictest standards of hygiene and sanitation.

• Corns and calluses. We're all familiar with these hard areas of skin that develop as a means of protecting the feet from tight and/or rough areas of footwear (or from concrete, sand and rocks for people who love a closer connection with nature). They are best prevented by wearing footwear of appropriate size and shape. If you have a wide toe area, with toes of close-to-even length, you should aim for a square or roundish toe, instead of squeezing your feet into pointed shoes.

A regular pedicure will help keep calluses at bay (but licensing regulations do not permit spa technicians to treat corns). Wearing a corn pad minus the medicated disk, or some moleskin cut to size, can help prevent corns from getting worse, or developing in the first place.

• Sweaty feet. While sweaty feet generally run in families (did we really write that?) and can't be prevented, associated foot odour can. Always wash your feet in the morning and dust with foot powder, body powder or corn starch. If you are planning to wear socks, make sure they are fresh ones. If possible, wash your feet again midday and, of course before you go to bed. Letting your feet out for an airing once in a while is a good idea.

To help your feet remain fabulous throughout fall and winter, Spa Utopia offers three pedicures: the Classic Express, Signature, and Exclusive.

The Classic Express 50-minute pedicure concentrates on foot essentials, including detailed grooming of the toenails, cuticles and soles, to promote good health. A light application of foot mousse to hydrate winter-dry feet is followed with CHI ceramic nail lacquer* or a buffing.

Our very popular 60-minute Signature pedicure provides detailed grooming, with a mineral salt exfoliation to reveal fresher skin and promote hydration. This is followed by a relaxing foot and leg massage, and the application of CHI ceramic nail lacquer* or buffing.

The 75-minute Exclusive pedicure provides the same detailed grooming, in addition to the application of alphahydroxy acids to dissolve and remove the dead skin that tends to build up around the sides and on the soles of the feet. Following a special leg treatment and foot-to-knee tension-relieving massage, your feet further benefit from a PerfectSense paraffin infusion mask, before your toenails are treated to CHI ceramic nail lacquer* or buffed.

* CHI ceramic nail lacquer is toluene and phthalate-free and contains anti-bacterial nano-silver.

And now for our special:

Since party season is just around the corner and strappy shoes
are a must—even on the coldest of nights— be sure to keep your feet
looking great all winter long!
Or, plan a pedi-party with your BFFs!

Get 4 Signature Pedicures for the price of 3.

PLUS, receive a free litre of Rosemary Mint Body Lotion.

Total value: $380. + $39.98 = $419.98 (plus tax)

Special Price: $285. (plus tax)

SAVE 33% or $134.98

Don't miss out! Watch for our Tuesday morning eBlast...

Pictured Ballentine boot courtesy of The ALDO Group Inc.

Beautiful, healthy skin. What does it really take?

2011-09-06T09:28:00.000-07:00

One of the questions we frequently hear from guests of
Spa Utopia is How do I best maintain the appearance of my skin between visits? So we thought we'd provide a few insights...

Although it would be nice, a beautiful skin doesn't just "happen." Nor does a regular professional facial ensure that your skin looks its very best at all times. Skin, just like the rest of you, relies on daily attention—and that means feeding it, from the inside and out.

One of the very best things we can do for our skin is to make sure we eat and drink healthily, and that means plenty of fruits and vegetables. Purified water is the best beverage for glowing skin—at least four glasses a day. (It's not necessary to drink eight glasses of water a day unless you live in the desert, or work out enough to cause ongoing sweating.) Fruits and veggies contain a number of healthful vitamins and phytochemicals that help support the structures of the skin. Green tea too has been shown in many studies to help the skin look its very best. (In addition to sipping green tea, you might consider brewing a cup, letting it cool, then using it as a spray to refresh your skin.)

Are you getting enough iron? Vitamin C? Protein? All these are essential to maintain the skin's support structures.

Having a perfect skin also depends on what you apply from the outside. Keeping the skin clean is very important, so never skip on your nighttime cleansing routine, however tired you are. Be sure too, never to skip your daily application of sunscreen. This could be a mineral sunscreen such as Jane Iredale.

The general rule is cleanse, tone, moisturize/treat at night when removing makeup, and again in the morning to remove built-up oils. If you wear more than one coat of mascara, or waterproof mascara, you may benefit from using an eye makeup-remover, which will ensure you don't pull on sensitive skin around the eyes.

The array of professional skincare products/treatments formulated for specific skin types is broad, and you may want to ask a Spa Utopia Skin Care Therapist what is best for you. Today's skin care products are constantly evolving as researchers learn more about the skin's structure and ability to renew itself. Most treatment creams and lotions available at Spa Utopia work at the cellular level to ensure your skin looks its very best. Today's skin preparations are targeted not only to skin "type" but also to the skin's degree of maturity. As we age, the skin's supportive matrix—consisting of elastin and collagen—needs to be replenished, and this can, to a degree, be achieved with professional-quality creams, lotions and serums.

It is also important to make sure that you use products formulated specifically for the eyes and lips, as these areas have finer skin and different needs from other areas of the face, neck and décolleté.

Although a regular facial is essential for healthy-looking skin, you can do a lot to improve skin's texture and quality with targeted treatments such as exfoliants and masques. While it's not necessary to exfoliate every day, a weekly exfoliation will encourage the lower "fresher" cells of the skin to regenerate faster. A twice-weekly masque will help keep the skin hydrated.

Does your skin suddenly look less dewy? Are you breaking out? It could be that you simply need a change of skin care products. Like the rest of you, the skin sometimes gets tired of the "same old, same old" and benefits from something new. Just as a new exercise routine or dietary change can work wonders on your well-being, so a change of nutrients applied directly to the skin can improve its appearance.

Did you know that physical activity such as a brisk daily walk greatly enhances the appearance of the skin? When we become physically active, the blood pumps faster around the body, enhancing delivery of all the nutrients needed for a glowing, dewy look. In addition to providing oxygen to the skin, the blood also helps carry away waste products, including free radicals, from the cells of the skin.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, be sure to de-stress regularly and to get at least seven hours' shut-eye. Stress can wreak havoc on the loveliest of skins, causing dullness and a haggard appearance, and a lack of sleep can actually prevent the skin from properly renewing and replenishing itself, as these processes take place during sleep.

Of course, a regular professional facial, designed just for you, is something you cannot forfeit if you want to maintain a beautiful skin. The application of professional quality and strength skincare products is essential to keep your skin looking fresh and clear, with that all-important glow. We recommend that you have a professional facial once every six weeks to maintain your skin at the peak of perfection!

This week, Spa Utopia is offering the following skin-enhancing special, just in time for fall.

Sorry! Special is sold out.

75-minute Designed for U Exclusive Facial

regular price: $139 plus tax.

Special: $97.39 plus tax (a saving of 30% or $41.70!)

You will also receive 15% off professional Comfort Zone and DerMed products prescribed by your Spa Utopia Skin Care Therapist during your treatment.

(But hurry, only 100 available at this special low price...)

For more details, please watch out for our

Wednesday morning eBlast!

Just for the guys!

2011-08-23T09:32:00.000-07:00

The summer is, sadly, drawing to a close and it's back to the office for most of the "guys of summer." That means trading up the campsite for the boardroom, the firepit for the water cooler—and for looking better groomed.

As more and more men discover the rejuvenating experience a visit to Spa Utopia brings, we have concentrated our efforts into creating a male-friendly and compatible environment.

And we'd love you to experience all we have to offer!

Most men tell us that they'd love to look a little fresher and more youthful. Also, that they'd like a manicure but are unsure of just where to start. With these concerns in mind, we've created a Spa Utopia special offer just for guys...

Here's what you'll experience:

75 minute Age Performer Facial reg. $152.
During this treatment, we'll encourage a more youthful appearance by stimulating your skin with alphahydroxy acids to bring younger, stronger, more healthy skin cells to the surface.

Nail Grooming for Hands reg. $63
During this treatment, your hands receive all the necessary care. Your nails and cuticles will be detailed perfectly and a hydrating lotion will restore needed moisture to "campfire skin."

Total $215. (plus tax)

Our special price: $139.75 (plus tax) A savings of 35%!

Plus a $10 voucher toward a hair service at any Spa Utopia Salon.

If you are a guy (or know a guy) who would love a little attention to his appearance before returning to the more serious business of Fall, please watch out for our Tuesday morning eBlast!

The Spa Utopia Back-to-School Girl Special

2011-08-09T09:09:00.000-07:00

This September, give that special young woman in your life a boost of confidence before she hits the books again!

Spa Utopia's Utopia Teens package is the ultimate confidence-booster for the back-to-school girl—ensuring she looks her very best for the important days that mark the beginning of the school year.

This special package consists of a Spa Utopia Designed for U Facial, a Classic Express Manicure, and a Professional Eyebrow Shaping that will give her those enviable brows enjoyed by her favourite celebrity.

Eyebrow Shaping at Spa Utopia

We view proper eyebrow shaping as both a science and an art! Most people's eyebrows are not identical to each other, making them difficult to properly tweeze or wax. Most young women start out shaping their brows with tweezers and, because of the disparity in shape or volume, end up over-tweezing one brow. This results in difficulty evening the brows out and one or both frequently end up too thin and/or sparse-looking.

A Spa Utopia professional can create a brow shape that will frame the eyes and compliment the shape of the face. Once the brows have been professionally shaped using tweezing and waxing, maintenance should be easy (although it is recommended to return every three months or thereabouts to freshen them up again). We use wax during the shaping process to remove the fine hairs around the brows that are visible in sunlight. This ensures a finished, well-groomed look.

Of course, you don't have to be a teen to take advantage of this very special offer. It is available for anyone to enjoy...

Our Utopia Teens Package Special

The package consists of:

• one 50-minute Designed for U Facial

• one 50-minute Classic Express Manicure

• one Professional Eyebrow Shaping

The regular price of this package is $187 plus taxes.

Buy it today and you'll pay only $120 plus taxes

(represents a savings of approx. 35%). This pricing includes $10 towards any Spa Utopia Salon service.

Our exclusive offer will expire at midnight, August 11. By joining our mailing list you can receive up to 50% off select spa treatments, packages and more! Sign up today atwww.spautopia.com

The Spa Utopia Summer Detox Package: A must for your hair and skin

2011-07-12T08:58:00.000-07:00

One of the most underrated and overlooked health and beauty treatments for your skin and hair is detoxification—the removed of unwanted elements that are detrimental to well-being.

Many of us practise body detoxification to help rid our systems of toxic buildup caused by foods, beverages and the products of metabolism, but we forget that the skin is a major organ with its own detoxification needs, and that the hair suffers from build-up of a number of dulling agents.

Spa Utopia detoxification treatments will bring out the natural beauty of your skin and hair, helping you look your summer best!

Detoxifying Thalassotherapy (Seaweed) Bath

This popular Spa Utopia treatment utilizes the naturally high mineral content of algae to stimulates the metabolism and circulation. This in turn increases skin-cell function, improves water and mineral balance, and gently detoxifies. Your 40-minute session includes a relaxing and therapeutic soak in one of our exclusive European hydro tubs, to which has been added our Pacific Seaweed solution with essential oils of lavender, marjoram, rosemary and mint. Afterwards, you will be treated to a full body application of our own luxurious Spa Utopia Rosemary Mint Body Lotion.

Salon Hair Detoxifying Treatment

Hands up if you've detoxified your hair this year. What? No one? We know, it's hard to believe that the hair would benefit from detoxification, but it does. In fact, people known for their shiny, swinging hair usually have it treated regularly to remove build-up and chemical residue that can drastically alter its appearance.

Pollution, hard water and chlorine can negatively impact the condition and colour of your hair by changing the chemistry and building a dulling coat over the shaft. The results include drabness, split ends and difficulty when combing.

Not all hair experiences the same type of pollutants and build up. Swimmers, for example, often have hair with a dull or greenish appearance caused by chlorine (especially if lightened), and others may experience dulling and build-up caused by specific shampoos and/or sprays. Even those who let their hair remain naturally beautiful can experience dulling from minerals found in "hard" tap water. Our Spa Utopia & Salon Hair Detoxifying Treatment treats your specific hair concerns with our customized detoxifying environmental damage recovery system.

The hair detoxification treatment consists of three phases, all of which are highly relaxing and enjoyable! First, a mud treatment rich in clay and antioxidants will free hair of toxins and protect it against free radical action resulting from UV light. Phase two is the application of a special shampoo that chelates (binds with) dulling minerals in your hair, and the final phase is the application of a rich moisturizing and detangling cream that protects and brings out your hair's true shine.

Our special Summer Detox package

Our special Head-to-Toe Summer Detox package consists of a Detoxifying Thalassotherapy Bath and Salon Hair Detoxifying Treatment with blowdry, designed to restore and rebalance.

The regular price for this package is $210 (+ taxes).

Buy it today and you'll pay only $136.50 (+ taxes).

This offer will expire at midnight, Thursday, July 14, 2011. For more details, watch your inbox for our eBlast.

And, since we have been waiting far too long to enjoy a little sunshine, why not turn this offer into a fabulous day of pampering? Begin with a dip in the Pan Pacific outdoor saltwater pool, relax at Spa Utopia while you enjoy your Summer Detox package, followed by a complimentary makeup touch-up, then join someone special for dinner on one of our city's wonderful patios. (Or better still, why not ask a special someone to join you for the whole day in celebration of our long-awaited summer...)

Spa Utopia Canada Day Body Exfoliation Special

2011-06-28T07:39:00.000-07:00

Although the weather's been more reminiscent of early spring, summer will soon arrive in all her skin-baring glory. Will you be ready?

One of the first things we think of in summer is a tan. Since we all understand that tanning is bad for the skin, most often, we'll go-for-the-faux with a self-tanner like St. Tropez. Others will spring for a St. Tropez instant tan, professionally applied at one of our three locations. Unfortunately, no tan will look good if your skin is rough, thickened or flaky, which is why exfoliation is so very important.

Of course, some people prefer their natural skin colour, and simply want their skin to look soft and youthful with even tone and colour.

For your skin to look its best, it is very important to exfoliate, and here's where Spa Utopia can help. In recognition of Canada Day, we are offering our Spa Utopia Body Scrub & Polish or Canadian Treasures Exfoliation (40 minutes) PLUS a litre of Spa Utopia Rosemary Mint Body Lotion with pure essential oils! (This represents a total retail value of $136.98, but in celebration of or great country, we're offering this to you for a total of $82.90 - a 40% saving.) But hurry, this special offer is only available until midnight of Thursday June 30th.

Spa Utopia Body Scrub & Polish

Relax completely as we apply a mixture of pumice, hemp oil and moor mud, enriched with eucalyptus and rosemary essential oils to your skin. This invigorating treatment helps stimulate blood circulation and promotes skin regeneration by reducing the build-up of dead skin cells. Your body will be polished velvety smooth and you'll feel energized and refreshed.

Spa Utopia Canadian Treasures Exfoliation

Utilizing Canada's incredible natural resources, this treatment helps remove dead skin cells to reveal the healthy luminous skin beneath. Glacial mineral water assists with hydration and gel cleanser derived from glacial clay helps exfoliate the skin while eliminating impurities. Deeply hydrating multiactive Seaweed Butter derived from Canadian shores finishes this treatment, helping to restore skin's natural health and beauty.

This relaxing treatment truly showcases Canada's natural resources for health and wellness.

After your treatment, you'll love using our Spa Utopia Rosemary Mint Body Lotion to maintain your silky smooth skin! The ultimate skincare luxury, this lotion is rich in moisturizing ingredients to leave you soft and hydrated. With a base of silky shea butter and coconut oil, our Rosemary Mint Body Lotion nourishes all skin types and is excellent for the hands and feet as well.

You can read more about Spa Utopia body exfoliation treatments here. Watch your inbox for our special celebration of Canada offer, or call any of our locations to book.

HAPPY CANADA DAY!

Here comes the sun...don't let it age your skin!

2011-06-14T09:04:00.000-07:00

Almost everyone enjoys summer, especially after the long and dreary Vancouver spring. In fact, most of us can't wait to shed our cardies and jeans, and get into shorts and a tee. There's only one problem: It's already almost Summer Solstice—when the sun is strongest, and our winter-pale skin at greater risk for burning. Last year, the weather pattern was similar, and the incidence of sunburn far greater than in previous years, when the sun introduced itself slowly during April and May.

So what should we do to best prepare our skin for summer exposure?

Of course, of greatest importance is wearing sunscreen—no matter how much you want to sport an attractive tan. The sun is the skin's number one ager, and also increases the risk of skin cancers and other lesions. But people still want to look healthy and sun kissed, and this is where a high quality faux tan comes into play.

Spa Utopia has you covered in both respects. We have some of the best sunscreens/skin enhancers available today, and also St. Tropez self tanning products and salon spray-on tan. This means you don't have to ruin your skin by basking in the sun (or worse, in a tanning salon), and can look healthy and tanned in a matter of hours.

Blocking UV light

People are always surprised to know that the rays that cause wrinkling are not restricted to the UVB rays we encounter outside on sunny summer days. Rather, wrinkling is accelerated by UVA light, whcih is all about us every day of the year. UVA light is daylight: if it's light outside, then UVA rays are present. These skin-spoilers pass through glass as well, meaning your skin can age as you sit next to a window during the winter, reading about your next sunny vacation destination! UVB light is strongest in summer (and closer to the tropics) and also damages the skin's collagen and elastin matrix. However, people are more likely to protect themselves against UVB light as these are burning rays. UVB light can, however, pass through clouds, meaning you can sustain a sunburn even on a dull day.

The answer to both UVA and UVB damage is to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day of the year, even if you are intending to stay indoors. Spa Utopia carries a number of sunscreens for the face and body (don't forget the back of your hands) such as Pro-Derm™ and the always-popular Jane Iredale SPF 20 mineral makeup.

The perfect self tan

St Tropez self tanning products are second to none in quality and—applied correctly—will give you smooth, sleek colour. Try St. Tropez Everyday Gradual Tan Mousse for the body and Everyday Gradual Tan for the face (plus a number of other formulations including a tan optimizer and self-tan spray). Until midnight, June 16, if you purchase any St. Tropez tanning product/s online, we will include an Applicator Mitt free of charge. Shipping is free if your purchase exceeds $50.

Of course, before using a self-tanning product, you will need to exfoliate, perhaps with our wonderfully smoothing Spa Utopia Body Scrub & Polish. Exfoliation ensures that the actual tanning ingredient doesn't stain heavily keratinized skin cells that are due to flake off as part of the skin's renewal process.

You might also consider having a St. Tropez Full Body Spray Tan at Spa Utopia, for an instant tan that will have your friends and co-workers wondering how you slipped off to Hawaii without anyone noticing!

Other suncare tips

Here are some ways to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays (some you will likely know, and some may be new to you!)

• Cover up with a wide-brimmed sunhat (this year's "in" fashion accessory) and cap sleeves. No matter how high the SPF of a sunscreen, it will still allow rays through. Long sleeves and pants are even better.

• Following on from the above, use a sunscreen that contains antioxidants to minimize damage from rays that do slip through. (Pro-Derm™, available from Spa Utopia locations or online, contains antioxidants.)

• Always apply your sunscreen at least half an hour before going into the sun. Apply according to packaging instructions. Most sunscreens absorb UV light and, in doing so, break down and become less protective— making reapplication necessary every two hours or so. Others are formulated to keep on working all day without reapplication.

• Avoid direct sun between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

• Remember that sand and water intensify the sun's rays. Always wear waterproof sunscreen when swimming on sunny days.

• Munch on broccoli (raw or cooked), carrots and dark chocolate and sip pomegranate juice. All these foods increase your skin's ability to reduce sun damage.

The Beauty of Medical Esthetics at Spa Utopia

2011-05-31T09:53:00.000-07:00

Did you know that Medi-Spa treatments are among the many popular beauty-enhancing services available from Spa Utopia?

Our Medical Esthetics Photo Therapy treatments include Photo Rejuvenation, Skin Tightening and Laser Hair Removal. All treatments are administered by our highly skilled Medical Skin Care Therapists, who have received comprehensive training from medical practitioners for these advanced technologies. In addition, each has successfully completed our extensive in-house training requirements and is committed to ensuring a successful and safe outcome for your procedure/s.

For all three therapies (which are available to men and women), you will be required to have a prior consultation with a Spa Utopia Medical Skin Care Therapist. The nominal fee for this consultation is applied to your subsequent treatment/s.

Photo Rejuvenation

Photo Rejuvenation or Broad Band Light™ Therapy (BBL) allows the Medical Skin Care Therapist to precisely treat fine wrinkles, age and sun spots, small facial veins (capillaries), and rosacea.

During your initial consultation, you will receive an indepth analysis of your skin and may also have a photograph taken with a UV camera. This highly specialized photography provides details of damage to the skin caused by the sun, and which may not be visible to the naked eye. Your treatment will be tailored to suit your skin's condition and your desired results.

BBL therapy delivers pulsed light onto the skin which gently heats it. The heat is absorbed by the targeted cells, encouraging collagen production and destroying the melanin that causes hyperpigmentation and age spots. Small capillaries are gently, but effectively eliminated. The flushing associated with rosacea is also effectively reduced through BBL treatment. These targeted treatments are achieved through the use of different filters.

You can read more about Photo Rejuvenation here.

BBL treatment is available at our Langley and North Vancouver locations.

Skin Tightening

Now you can have visibly smoother, tauter skin, without the discomfort or downtime of surgery. Skin-Tyte™ is an advanced, light-based system that specifically targets the cells of the dermis, and recaptures the firmness associated with youthful skin.

Fast and gentle, Skin Tyte™ delivers light energy (heat) to the dermis through a specific filter while keeping the surface of the skin cool. The energy absorbed by the targeted area stimulates your skin to increase collagen production. The collagen fibers continue to strengthen after your treatment and you will see improved results over the months ahead.

You can read more about Skin Tightening here.

Skin Tightening is available at both our Langley and North Vancouver locations.

Laser Hair Removal

Imagine never having to shave, wax, tweeze, or apply messy creams again! If you want a smooth, sleek, hair-free body, all of the time, then laser hair removal may be the perfect option for you.

Our LightSheer™ diode laser system is the recognized gold standard in laser hair removal. This exciting technology offers a long-lasting solution to unwanted hair on the face, back, legs, bikini line or any other body area. The LightSheer™ is non-invasive, gentle on sensitive areas like the lip and underarms, and effectively treats unwanted hair on all skin types, including ethnic and dark complexions.

The LightSheer™ works by sending pulses of light to the hair follicles, where natural pigments absorb the light. This destroys the existing hair and inhibits regrowth. At the same time, the surface of your skin is kept cool and comfortable. Most people achieve permanent hair reduction and clinical studies show that if some hairs do return, they are typically lighter and less dense than prior to laser treatment. LightSheer™ treatments are tolerated very well, and you can generally return to work and resume all regular activities immediately.

You can read more about Laser Hair Removal here.

Laser Hair Removal is available at our Langley and North Vancouver location.

A word about photo aging...

A Photo Rejuvenation or Skin Tightening treatment at Spa Utopia will help restore your skin to a more youthful appearance, and encourage fresh collagen production. However, the best way to "treat" skin aging is to prevent it in the first place! A good sun protection program, strictly adhered to, will prevent sun damage (photo aging) such as wrinkling and age spots—and, if you have had a photo therapy treatment, will ensure the results last as long as possible).

Spa Utopia carries some of the most advanced sun protection products available—and every one of them is a pleasure to use, unlike many sun-protection creams and lotions. If you are going on a sunny vacation, or spend a lot of time outdoors, you may wish to invest in Pro-Derm™ sunscreen with an SPF of 60. This highly specialized formulation is moisturizing, non-greasy, and contains no unpleasant chemicals. (Many savvy women use this formula daily on their hands, to prevent tell-tale signs of aging such as brown spots.)

Shop online for Pro-Derm™ products here.

For daily prevention of sun damage, you may also want to use Jane Iredale mineral makeup with an SPF of 20—a popular choice among women who want to protect their skin against sun damage while avoiding the chemicals often present in sunscreens.

For more information on Medical Esthetic treatments at Spa Utopia, please contact our Langley location at 604-539-8772 or North Vancouver location at 604-980-3977 for information and booking for any of the three treatments. Please remember that prior to any treatment, you will be asked to book a consultation with a Medical Skin Care Therapist.

Will you be a bride this summer?

2011-05-11T10:36:00.000-07:00

Will you be taking that magical walk down the aisle this summer? If so, you're probably as busy as can be with organizing all that has to be done for your very special day.

Unfortunately, many brides-to-be become so caught up with all the selecting, ordering and other activities that take place before the wedding date that they forget to take a little time off to ensure they are both beautiful and relaxed-looking on the day they say "I do." As a result, the feet that slip into those oh-so-pretty pumps are often less soft than desirable, and facial skin might be reflecting the stress they are experiencing.

So for all those soon-to-be brides, here's a list of services/treatments you might want to book before your

wedding.

A Spa Utopia pedicure.

If your feet are still suffering from a long spring spent in boots, they will likely benefit from a pedicure now and every three weeks or so until just before your wedding day. If the wet weather persists, be sure to wear thin socks to keep them from rubbing on the inside of boots and developing calluses or corns.

Choose from our Utopia™ Signature pedicure, Classic Express pedicure or Exclusive Utopia™ pedicure with paraffin infusion mask.

Utopia™ Signature Pedicure:

Our Signature Pedicure is designed with precise toenail, cuticle and sole grooming care. A mineral salt exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and remineralize the skin, promoting hydration. A slow comforting foot and leg massage will assist with dissolving bridal stress and tension. Toenails are either polished or buffed to finish.

Exclusive Utopia Pedicure:

A blend of alphahydroxy acids work to exfoliate and soften the skin and a hand massage helps you relax fully. You will enjoy precise toenail, cuticle and sole grooming care as well as a leg treatment to increase circulation and give you a light and fresh sensation. This is followed by a tension-relieving massage from the foot to the knee. Afterwards, you will further benefit from a PerfectSense paraffin infusion mask and your toenails will be polished or buffed for a flawless finish.

Classic Express Pedicure:
Our classic pedicure allows you to benefit from foot grooming essentials. Your toenails, cuticles and soles
are cared for with detailed grooming that promotes good health. You will enjoy a light application of foot mousse for exceptional hydration. Your pedicure will end with a refined polish or buff.

You can read more about our pedicures here.

A Spa Utopia facial

When you are stressed, your skin can become extra sensitive to breakouts. (It's why we always seem to develop the world's worst blemish before a hot date.) A facial can help calm your skin, and encourage a beautiful radiance on your wedding day.

Designed for U Facial:
Choose between our 50 minute Classic Facial and 75 minute
Exclusive Facial.

Designed For U Classic facial therapies target skin health. Soft essences provide sensorial escapes. A personalized skin care therapy plan is designed for continued care.

Designed for U Exclusive facial therapies rebalance your skin, promoting wellness with detailed attention. Massage for the face, neck and décolleté, and calming scalp/foot massage techniques induce a feeling of tranquility. We complement this facial with a skin care therapy plan specifically designed for continued care.

Utopia™ Signature Facial with PerfectSense paraffin infusion hand mask
Our signature 75-minute facial uses heated gem stones and Japanese facial therapy techniques to increase blood circulation. This increases the health of your skin and releases muscle tension to help you fully relax. As a result, your skin will better absorb and utilize the many skin-perfecting ingredients in the high quality products used during this highly beneficial facial. As a bonus, your hands will be treated to a PerfectSense paraffin infusion.

Designed for U Anti-Aging Facial
This 75-minute facial begins with an analysis of the skin to determine how best to tailor a combination of products to provide your skin with the biggest anti-aging impact possible. Our careful choice of highly effective products will help provide deeper exfoliation, lessening of wrinkle depth, firmer skin tissue, clarity of complexion, and reduced discolouration of the skin.

You can read more about our facials here.

A specialized Spa Utopia back treatment

Does your wedding dress have a low back? If so, you'll want the skin of your back to look perfect. (In fact, you'll want it to look perfect even if your dress isn't low...)

A Spa Utopia Back Zone Care treatment will provide you with 50 minutes of relaxation as your back—an area that is difficult to reach and care for—receives a gentle exfoliation that helps remove the build-up of dead skin cells. Ocean nutrients and minerals help eliminate toxins and soothe any irritation while promoting beautiful skin clarity.

You can read more about this treatment here.

A relaxing Spa Utopia massage

Admit it. Although you're loving planning and preparing for your big day, you're also stressed—and stress just isn't good for you.

To alleviate pre-wedding stressors, Spa Utopia offers a number of relaxing massage treatments that will reduce anxiety and foster peace of mind.

Our massage/body treatments include:

Utopia™ Royal Massage
A 100-minute "royal" treatment, this Swedish massage includes warm towel wipes that increase circulation to the skin, warm stones placed on the back that provide deep penetrating heat to back muscles, steam to the face and scalp to calm common tension areas and a relaxation massage that pays extra attention to the face, scalp and feet in order to ease achy muscles, reduce anxiety and give you a calm peace of mind.

Utopia™ Siesta Massage
This 75-minute full body Swedish massage session uses our signature Siesta Massage oil blend, and prepares you for a restful and restorative sleep. Gentle soothing techniques, hypnotic fragrances, and a relaxing face and scalp massage quieten the mind.

Utopia™ Signature Massage
During this popular 75-minute massage, hot stones warm the tissues, warm towels stimulate circulation and a unique foot massage helps relax tired, achy muscles. You'll relax deeply as essential aroma-oil blends and your therapist's gently soothing hands will leave you feeling renewed and ready to face the day.

You can read about these, and other Spa Utopia massages including our super-relaxing Aromatherapy massages here.

The Universal Contour Wrap

If shaping up fast is in your plans, you'll be thrilled with the long-lasting results of the Universal Contour Wrap.

A unique and effective blend of mineral rich clay and specific body wrapping techniques help cleanse and detoxify your body while actively compressing soft fatty tissues to create instant and lasting inch loss. While wrapped, you'll relax with a cleanse, exfoliation and massage for the face plus a soothing scalp massage.

Eliminating toxins is a great way to kick start a dietary change or maintain a healthy body. Plan ahead and prepare your body for your wedding day.

This wrap is scientifically proven for instant inch loss. We guarantee you will lose at least 6" from your first treatment or have nothing to pay and providing you do not put on weight we guarantee you will sustain at least a 6" loss for a minimum of 30 days or receive a free treatment. (Double guarantee only applies to your first full body wrap. After wrap instructions must be followed in full for guarantee to be valid.)

Although Spa Utopia cannot personally handle all those little details associated with the planning and preparation for your wedding, we can help you handle them, by providing treatments to increase relaxation and calm. Closer to that magical day, we can help you and your family and friends prepare by sharing time together during a Spa Utopia The Picture Perfect Bridal Party package or you alone during our The Beautiful Bride package.

You can read more about our Special Occasion packages here.

For more information, or to book any of these treatments, please contact your local Spa Utopia, or book conveniently online.

And the winner is....

2011-05-07T10:14:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Mark who won the Classic Escape package for his wife. Mark, please email me, sherri(at)spautopia, to arrange pick up or delivery of your gift card. To all our entrants, thank you for your heartwarming comments. Happy Mother's Day to all, from your friends at Spa Utopia.

Mother's Day ideas from Spa Utopia

2011-05-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

Is there anyone who deserves to be more recognized for all she does than a mother? Whether she be your own mother, a family member who is also a mom, a mom-to-be, a mom-in-law or simply someone who "has always been a mom" to you, that special lady will likely spend much of her time in "giving mode." This Mother's Day, it's time to show her how very much she is appreciated by giving something very special to her!

Most moms agree that feeling pampered for a few hours is even better than the customary Mother's Day gifts of flowers or chocolates. After all, pampering is something most mothers don't have time to experience during their busy schedules.
Moms-to-be need that special time for themselves too. Pregnancy is both a joyful time and a tiring time as moving around with ease becomes more difficult. (Moms-to-be in their last trimester love a pedicure because reaching those toes is no longer an easy task with a baby bump in the way!)

To help you find the perfect gift for the mother/s in your life, Spa Utopia offers a number of treatments specifically for moms-to-be and new moms, as well as for "established" mothers and grandmothers. Also popular for Mother's Day is the Spa Utopia gift certificate, beautifully enclosed in a signature red envelope. (Pick up at any Spa Utopia location or buy online and request delivery) or the Spa Utopia Gift Card, with personalized photo. Just upload your photo here, choose a value, and we'll create the card for you.)

Here are our suggestions for Mother's Day:

Spa Utopia Classic Escape package

Our most popular package (approximately 2½ hours) includes:

• 50-minute Classic Swedish Full Body Massage
• 50-minute Designed for U Facial
• 50-minute Classic Express Pedicure

Read more about it here.

Spa Utopia Pregnancy Massage

For that special mom-to-be.

A massage designed for specific stages of pregnancy, with specific exercises and techniques to promote the health and stability of her body as it adjusts to all those wonderful changes!

You can read more about it here.

Spa Utopia Spa 2-gether

Enjoy special time together as you are treated to side-by-side treatments for two. This package includes:

• Two 50-minute Classic Swedish Massages
• Two 50-minute Classic Express Pedicures

You can read more about this popular package here.

Spa Utopia Indulgence

The ultimate luxury package for Mom lasts approximately 7 hours, during which she will enjoy:

•75-minute Aromatherapy Designed for U Massage
•75-minute Utopia™ Signature Facial
•75-minute Exclusive Pedicure with Paraffin Treatment
•Shampoo, Expressions Treatment & Instructional Style
•Spa Lunch

You can read more about this very special package here.

Spa Utopia Spa Royale

Approximately 7 hours of pure bliss, including:

• 100-minute Utopia™ Royal Hydrotherapy Session
• 75-minute Exclusive Facial
• 75-minute Exclusive Pedicure with Paraffin Treatment
• Shampoo, Deep Treatment and Instructional Style
• Professional Makeup Application
• Spa Lunch

During her visit to Spa Utopia, the very special mom in your life will change into a snuggly white robe, sip a complimentary beverage of her choice— perhaps our signature Rooibos Cocktail— and put her feet up before enjoying the relaxing Spa Utopia treatment or package you have given her. She'll be pampered and cared for in that unique Spa Utopia way that says, "Thank you for being such a wonderful presence in my life."

Comment on this post this week for your chance to win a Spa Utopia Classic Escape package for the special mother in your life!

Oops! Find yourself with too little time to arrange a Mother's Day gift? Why not purchase a Spa Utopia Instant Gift Certificate? Simply choose from a selection of templates and include a special message, then email or print instantly.

To book any of these packages, or to purchase a gift card or certificate, please visit one of our three spa locations, or visit the Spa Utopia website.

Spa Utopia salon director stylist, James Riyad, takes Allilon course

2011-04-19T09:28:00.000-07:00

Spa Utopia and Salon stylist, James Riyad, has just returned from a 10-day training course at the prestigious Allilon centre in London, England.

Founded in 2008, Allilon (the name is ancient Greek for one another) specializes in producing educational hair shows and seminars exploring shape and form in haircutting techniques. The company is now recognized as the premier venue in Europe for those wishing to finely hone their skills in cutting edge hair design.

Photographs courtesy of James Riyad

For James, who is already a talented hair designer, and director of Spa Utopia salon, the 10-day intensive course provided enhanced understanding of the role each single hair has to play in the finished cut and style. "It all breaks down to math, geometry and precision," he explains. "We are creating a shape that must look natural on a rounded object—the head—and this requires both understanding the principles of geometry and using one's innate creative flair. The result is a cut and style that not only looks spectacular, but functions as a whole because each individual hair has its job to do in the creation of shape and form."

The training course featured one-on-one training with Allilon's famed designers, an experience James found both challenging and enjoyable.

Photograph courtesy of James Riyad

James is excited at the prospect of using his newly acquired knowledge to create stunning precision cuts for his clients. You may book an appointment with James at the Spa Utopia and Salon North Vancouver or Langley locations by calling directly: 604 539-8772 (Langley) or 604 980-3922 (North Vancouver).

Vancouver: Spa Utopia introduces the Universal Contour Wrap for men and women!

2011-04-04T12:09:00.000-07:00

If someone told you you could lose 20 to 30 inches in only 30 days, we're guessing you'd be hard pressed to believe them, yet this remarkable loss is now possible through the Universal™ Contour Wrap, available at Spa Utopia.

Already available in over 1000 UK spas and beloved of celebrities including Paula Abdul and Miss Canada (2009), Shannon Smadella, the Universal™ Contour Wrap is the inch loss treatment that guarantees you will lose at least 6 inches in just two hours. (Most people lose between 10 and 14 inches.) This makes it perfect when you have to shape up for that special occasion! Best of all, the wrap does not rely on water loss to achieve its amazing results. The inches are guaranteed to stay off for at least 30 days* so that you can be confident that your fabulous new shape will remain long after you leave our spa.

The Universal™ Contour Wrap delivers more than sensational inch loss: the unique clay formula and special wrapping techniques also tone and tighten your body while exfoliating and cleansing the skin so that you'll both look and feel fabulous after just one treatment.

Special occasions or just to stay in shape

If you have a special occasion coming up, a Universal™ Contour Wrap treatment will quickly provide the results you're looking for. Many men and women have the treatment to kick start a weight management plan, and others to target a few stubborn inches.

How does it work?

The Universal™ Contour Wrap was developed by Dr. Richard Strem, following extensive research into beneficial minerals used in spa treatments. After your measurements are taken, you will be wrapped in 30 or so elasticated bandages that have been soaked in a warm, mineral-rich clay solution. Your Spa Utopia technician will focus on the areas that most need tightening and toning, such as the thighs and buttocks for women and stomach and love handles for men.

The combination of clay and bandages help detoxify and tighten loose tissue, while compacting the areas where fat is stored. (As the bandages sculpt and tone your body, the minerals are absorbed into your skin and the clay draws out toxins.) The wrap also revitalizes the body's elastin leaving your body more toned and with measurable inch loss not attributable to loss of water. (In fact you are encouraged to drink water afterwards to lose even more inches following your treatment.)

How long does it take?

Application of the Universal™ Contour Wrap takes less than 45 minutes, after which you can relax for an hour or so while the treatment takes effect. During this relaxation time, your technician will ask you to choose a Spa Utopia Aromasoul essence to enhance your sensory experience, then cleanse and exfoliate your face and provide an enjoyable face and scalp massage. Following removal of the wraps, you will be given a fluffy robe, and spend 15 minutes in our lounge area while your skin naturally dries. (There is no need to shower following the treatment as the clay leaves the skin cleansed and feeling pleasantly smooth.) Next, you will return to the treatment room to be remeasured—and your dramatic inch loss revealed!

Who is the ideal candidate?

You are an ideal candidate for The Universal™ Contour Wrap if:

- you want immediate results for a special occasion or vacation

- you have loose skin following pregnancy or weight loss

- you want to reduce the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks

- you have a problem area that needs a little help

- you're wanting to kick-start a weight management program

- you've "fallen off the exercise wagon" and want incentive to get back on track.

We at Spa Utopia are excited to be able to offer this exceptional treatment to our spa guests and look forward as much as you will to seeing your results. Although significant loss of inches is achieved (and guaranteed*) during your first treatment, many people feel that the most dramatic changes become apparent after the third treatment. To book your Universal™ Contour Wrap treatment, please contact your local Spa Utopia. You may read more about the treatment here.

* The Universal™ Contour Wrap is scientifically proven for instant inch loss. We guarantee you will lose at least 6" from your first treatment or have nothing to pay and, providing you do not put on weight, we guarantee you will sustain at least a 6” loss for a minimum of 30 days or receive a free treatment.**

** Double guarantee only applies to your first full body wrap. After wrap instructions provided by your technician must be followed in full for guarantee to be valid.

Coming soon to a Spa Utopia near you: The Universal Contour Wrap

2011-03-24T18:19:00.000-07:00

Yes, the rumours are indeed true! Spa Utopia is about to introduce the Universal™ Contour Wrap to all three spa locations.

As soon as we posted this on our website under "new services" the phone started ringing! And no wonder. This sought-after wrap guarantees a loss of a minimum 6" after your first treatment.* What's more, that isn't water loss, and you are encouraged to drink more water afterwards to help keep your body free of toxins.

The Universal™ Contour Wrap really is the "best kept secret" of the stars, and now it can be your secret too. So just keep watching our website, blog, Facebook and Twitter announcements as to when the treatment will be available.

p.s. Rumour also has it that we'll be launching the Universal™ Contour Wrap with a special introductory offer, so please keep your eyes and ears peeled. With those phones already ringing, we're anticipating a lot of interest...

** The Universal™ Contour Wrap is scientifically proven for instant inch loss. We guarantee you will lose at least 6" from your first treatment or have nothing to pay and, providing you do not put on weight, we guarantee you will sustain at least a 6” loss for a minimum of 30 days or receive a free treatment.**

** Double guarantee only applies to your first full body wrap. After wrap instructions provided by your technician must be followed in full for guarantee to be valid.

It's almost Spring and time for a pedicure at Spa Utopia!

2011-03-15T15:32:00.000-07:00

The clocks have been put forward, winter boots are on sale, and all the pretty sandals will soon be flooding stores in the Lower Mainland. Will your feet be ready?

Nothing says "Spring!" like the first pedicure of the year and, after a season of being stuck inside socks and heavy footwear, your feet will be more than grateful.

Although our genes are primarily responsible for the size and shape of our feet, taking good care of them contributes greatly to their overall appearance and appeal. A less-than-perfectly shaped foot can look more aesthetically pleasing when well cared for, than one that is dainty but dry-looking, rough and calloused.

To help your feet look fabulous for their springtime debut, Spa Utopia offers three pedicures: the Classic Express, Signature, and Exclusive.

The Classic Express 50-minute pedicure concentrates on foot essentials, including detailed grooming of the toenails, cuticles and soles, to promote good health. A light application of foot mousse to hydrate winter-dry feet is followed with CHI ceramic nail lacquer (see below) or a buffing.

Our very popular 60-minute Signature pedicure provides detailed grooming, with a mineral salt exfoliation to reveal fresher skin and promote hydration. This is followed by a relaxing foot and leg massage, and the application of CHI ceramic nail lacquer, or buffing.

Spa guest Adrianna enjoys a pedicure with Mila

The 75-minute Exclusive pedicure provides the same detailed grooming, in addition to the application of alphahydroxy acids to dissolve and remove the dead skin that tends to build up around the sides and on the soles of the feet. Following a special leg treatment and foot-to-knee tension-relieving massage, your feet further benefit from a PerfectSense paraffin infusion mask, before your toenails are treated to CHI ceramic nail lacquer, or buffed.

A PerfectSense paraffin infusion mask may be added to the Classic Express and Signature pedicures (and is included in the Exclusive pedicure). The mask comprises medical grade paraffin, with multiple minerals and 11 vitamins, and invigorating essences of eucalyptus, mandarin, orange, spearmint and peppermint. The mask increases hydration and helps ease tired and achy joints, and is a much-loved part of Spa Utopia pedicures and manicures.

Why CHI ceramic nail lacquer?
Spa Utopia believes that, not only must a nail polish look good on your toes, it must also maintain them in the best of health. Our entire pedicure procedure is governed by the strictest attention to hygiene and sanitation, and this includes the very last detail: nail polish! CHI is available in a wide array of colours and finishes, and is free from harmful ingredients such as formaldehyde, toluene and DPB. It is durable and long lasting, due to the inclusion of Ceramic 44, and contains silk for brilliant shine. Nano silver has been added to the formula to protect against bacteria and fungi. (Best of all, it will look stunning on your toes...)

Stop Press! Spa Utopia now has CHI Spring Collection, Secret Fantasy. Colours shown are - Sunny Romance of Saint Tropez, Salsalita Y Margarita, My Secret Fetish, Passionate Kiss, Picnic in Central Park, Double Fisted Fucshia, In Between the Sheets, and Midnight Rendezvous.

Of course, you can purchase CHI nail polish and treatments from the retail store at Spa Utopia and through our Online Store.

A full complement of foot care products
We at Spa Utopia pride ourselves on bringing to you some of the best foot care treatments available today. These include moisturizers and specialized treatments by FootLogix (the brand we use during our pedicure services). So whether you have dry feet with cracked heels, need an anti-fungal treatment for under and around the nails, or simply want a targeted treatment to keep your feet well moisturized, we have you covered! FootLogix products are available in our retail stores and Online Store. (A 10% discount will apply to any FootLogix product purchased through our online shopping cart up until March 31. Please use promo code FOOT10.)

To book a spring pedicure, please contact your local Spa Utopia, or alternatively book online using our convenient booking service.

Behind the Scenes at Spa Utopia #1: Our Linens Department is a busy place!

2011-02-24T09:54:00.000-08:00

Spa Utopia linen delivery vans are kept busy

With close to 10,000 spa guests a month, in addition to guests of our two Utopia Academy locations, Spa Utopia requires a lot of freshly laundered linens. Our Linens Department is therefore a very busy place! Laundering an average 195,000 pounds of towels, robes, wraps and other linens from three spa locations and two Utopia Academy campuses every month means the staff of 12—including Linens Manager Anne—are kept busy sorting, laundering and folding all the linens that help keep our spa guests warm, dry and comfortable.

Linens Manager Anne with Spa Utopia Body Wraps

The day begins at 7 a.m., when four staff members are met with close to 165 bags of used linens from all five locations. Then begins the busy task of sorting the linens for one location at a time, using colour coding to ensure that the linens are not mixed up. (This is important because spa robes often contain personal items that a guest has inadvertently left in a pocket and we want to make sure we return these safely to the correct location.) The laundry is in full operation seven days a week.

Five washers have a combined capacity of 375 pounds

Next, the linens are pre-treated with special solutions that remove all the soil gathered in the course of a spa day, such as essential oils, mud, seaweed, tea or coffee stains, and shea butter. After this, they're placed in one of five industrial washers with capacities as great as 100 pounds. The detergents and bleach/other treatments are dispensed via tubing, and customized to each load. (We wouldn't want the luxurious black towels used by our Utopia hair salons to be bleached like our face cloths!) After washing and drying, the linens are inspected, folded and counted before being sealed in bio-degradable plastic bags and placed in bins for their return journey. Washing so much linen requires a lot of cleaning solutions/detergents—approximately 480 litres a month. The daily lint accumulation from so much laundry is enough to stuff several cushions.

Folding and bagging clean linens

And just what are those objects spa guests most commonly leave in the pockets of their microfleece robes? Linens Manager Anne has a smile when she answers. Lacy underthings are common, as are cellphones and Blackberries, jewellery (including engagement rings and diamond necklaces), hair elastics, tea bags and a variety of nuts and dried fruits. "We have to make sure that every pocket of every robe is turned inside out and carefully inspected," she explains. "Not only do we find items that could stain linens in the wash, but also tiny stud earrings and other jewellery pieces that can easily get caught in seams. We can't be too careful."

Clean and cozy, Spa Utopia robes are ready for their homeward journey

Retweet this: I want to win a microfibre robe from @spautopia so I can snuggle up and relax at home in style! or leave your comment below for a chance to WIN a super cozy microfibre Spa Utopia robe.

...OR, you can order yours today from our on-line shopping cart and SAVE 25% ( online offer only, while supplies last).

Making a difference: Sarah donates her hair

2011-02-10T14:56:00.000-08:00

"A hundred years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove. But the world may be different, because I was important in the life of a child." * Forest E. Witcraft (1894 - 1967)

Making a difference in the life of a child is of utmost importance to Camosun College student, Sarah, pictured here with Mot, hair designer at Spa Utopia and Salon's Pan Pacific location. Sarah is passionate about helping people and making a difference—especially to the lives of children. She believes in miracles, and that we can create them for ourselves and for others. Sarah's desire to make a difference came into play recently when she decided to donate her long, shiny hair to make one or more wigs for children who have lost their hair as a result of medical treatment.

The haircutting event took place early February at the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel, where four REALTORS® with RE/MAX—John Dick - Okatoks, Margaret O’Connor - Okatoks, Christine Chorney - Edmonton and Sharon Black - Kelowna—held an event prior to the RE/MAX of Western Canada Convention, to raise funds for BC Children's Hospital, in association with the Children's Miracle Network.

First, Mot divided Sarah's hair into ponytails to make sure the donated hair was at least the minimum length of 10". Then with a few careful snips, and a lot of supportive cheers, Sarah's donation was complete.

Not so for her hairstyle, however! The following day, Sarah was invited to Spa Utopia and Salon, where Mot cut and designed Sarah's hair into a stylish textured shag, which she'll be showing off at her upcoming wedding.

Spa Utopia would like to congratulate all who took part in this worthwhile event, and especially to Sarah, whose generosity of spirit will surely take her very far and bring many positive changes in the lives of others.

* Original quote, "...because I was important in the life of a boy," has been changed over time to include both sexes. Forest E. Witcraft was a respected Boy Scout leader, who wrote the essay Within My Power, in which this quote first appeared.

Spa Utopia and Salon welcomes new and talented hair designers

2011-02-08T12:15:00.000-08:00

Spa Utopia and Salon is becoming increasingly popular as a destination for those "in the know." Due to the growing demand for our cutting, styling and colour services, we have recently welcomed new stylists to our North Vancouver and Langley salons. As regular salon guests already know, all our stylists are licensed professionals with advanced training and many have won awards for their excellence in all aspects of hair design. Our dedicated designers have also successfully completed Spa Utopia’s in-house training, to ensure the exceptional service and care you can expect when visiting one of our salon locations. Each designer is committed to advanced education in colouring, cutting and chemical applications to ensure our guests enjoy the most current and fashion forward hair trends.

We warmly welcome to our Langley location: Master Designers Jay and Charlene, Senior Designer Bernadine, and Designers Jaclyn and Claudia.

...and to our North Vancouver location: Master Designers Andrew (Salon Department Head), Nancy and Chris, and Senior Designers Stephanie and Jessica.

Our new stylists are looking forward to attending to your specific hair-care and styling needs. We are therefore offering a 30% discount on bookings with specific stylists for a limited time, to allow you to meet and experience our very talented hair experts.

At Spa Utopia and Salon we pride ourselves on providing an unmatched cut/styling/colour experience, along with all the little extras that make your visit memorable. Our guests are provided with complimentary beverages, and enjoy a scalp massage and makeup touch-up, if desired, as part of their service. Spa Utopia and Salon locations are open seven days a week and some evenings (please check with your local salon or our website for hours of operation).

For more information on the many specialized services offered at our salon locations, please visit the Spa Utopia website.

Utopia Academy offers new part time Medical Esthetics Laser Hair Removal program

2011-02-02T10:12:00.000-08:00

Keeping up with all the advances in beauty treatments can be daunting! Magazines, TV news spots, and Internet forums all provide the education and desire in beauty-conscious women—and men—to look their very best, using the very latest techniques and technology.

Laser Hair Removal is growing in popularity as more and more women desire petal-soft skin free from stubble or having to let their hairs grow 1/4" or so before waxing. As a result, skilled estheticians who can perform Laser Hair Removal are more in demand than ever and enjoy increased earnings potential.

If you are a licensed esthetician or nurse interested in learning the technique of Laser Hair Removal, you may be interested to know of Utopia Academy's new part-time Medical Esthetics Laser Hair Removal program.

The program will provide you with comprehensive information the practical skills to perform safe and effective permanent hair reduction treatments on the face and body.

The 32-hour Laser Hair Removal training course is hands on and provides learning in a structured yet fun environment. Utopia Academy's esthetics programs are fully accredited by the Private Career Training Institutions Association (PCTIA). Start dates for the program are April, May, October and November.

For more details on how you can become fully proficient in laser hair removal and benefit from the growing demand and increased earning potential for estheticians/nurses with this skill, please check out the Utopia Academy website.

Your Future Awaits: Make 2011 the year you start a rewarding career through Utopia Academy

2011-01-25T07:29:00.000-08:00

Utopia Academy would like to ask a very important question at the start of this new year. Are you passionate about what you do for a living? Many men and women know exactly what they want to do, and are already on the right path to achieving their career goals. An equal number (if not more) are unsure of what they want, or feel "stuck" in a position that fails to inspire them.

If you are one of these people, and you know you want to interact with others as you help them achieve their health, wellness and beauty goals, Utopia Academy is the gateway to your future...

Choose from a career as a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT), an esthetician or hair stylist and begin your journey to a rewarding future at Utopia Academy.

Faculty of Massage Therapy

The Registered Massage Therapy program at our Vancouver Campus is fully accredited by both the College of Massage Therapists of B.C. and the Private Career Training Institutions Agency.

Massage therapists are in great demand. With a 93% pass rate and 95% student employment, Utopia Academy is established as the leader in massage therapy training.

With smaller class sizes, a convenient Vancouver location, and experienced instructors, Utopia Academy is the perfect choice to start your career in Massage Therapy.

You can read more about Utopia Academy's Faculty of Massage Therapy here. Government funding may be available for qualifying students.

Faculty of Esthetics

Utopia Academy's Faculty of Esthetics in Abbotsford, BC, is the training ground for an exciting career as an esthetician. As a student, you will learn in a small group under guided supervision to gain hands-on experience that both inspires confidence and ensures professionalism.

Esthetics is a rapidly growing sector of the health and beauty industry, and qualified estheticians are always in demand to help people look and feel their very best.

Start on the path to success by enrolling in Utopia Academy’s Esthetics Program today, and in six months you can be well on your way to a bright future. Our Advanced Esthetic Program gives students a solid foundation with the necessary studies of regular esthetics and 50% more of advanced theory and practical applications. This will prepare you for a solid start in the cosmetology industry. The full-time Esthetics Program consists of 900 hours of training over the course of 24 weeks, or approximately 6 months.

You can read more about Utopia Academy's Faculty of Esthetics here. Government funding may be available for qualifying students.

Faculty of Hair Design

For many men and women, a career as a top-notch hair stylist is the ultimate dream. Now you can learn hair design at one of the most prestigious schools in Western Canada.

Utopia Academy's Faculty of Hair Design in Abbotsford graduates students with a solid basis in the fundamentals of hair art, science and design. Our program exceeds industry standards for hair stylists, and teaches essential business, technical and academic skills to ensure your success. Well respected by top salon owners and hair stylists, our faculty of experienced and friendly professionals can start you on the path to a rewarding and lucrative career that you'll truly love.

You can read more about Utopia Academy's Faculty of Hair Design here.

Utopia Academy opened its doors in 1996 in Abbotsford, B.C. The Academy’s excellent reputation in the health and beauty industry accounts for a 93%+ employment rate. The ongoing growth and success of our partner, Spa Utopia™, assures that Utopia Academy students can be confident that they are joining a school that understands the importance of a solid education, and what it takes to succeed in today’s health and beauty industry. Utopia Academy is registered and accredited with PCTIA (Private Career Training Institutes Agency (of B.C.)

It's time to make a decision about your future! Call us today to inquire about our Esthetics program or Hair Design program at 604.859.3777 (toll free: 877.859.3777).
To inquire about our Massage Therapy program call us at 604-681-4450 (toll free: 1-888-681-4450).

Massage, Esthetics and Hair Design services at reduced cost

Did you know that supervised Utopia Academy students can provide you with massage, esthetic and salon services at reduced costs as part of their hands-on training? This is an excellent opportunity for you to benefit from the service of your choice at a fraction of the cost, and for students to interact with their future clients in a fully professional setting. During your service or treatment, the student will be supervised by knowledgeable and experienced instructors. (Our instructors are all registered professionals with the Cosmetology Industry Association of BC or are Registered Massage Therapists who meet or exceed the requirements for instruction as determined by the College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia.)

Have a (Starbucks) Tazo® tea on us!

2011-01-17T10:37:00.000-08:00

Tea not only makes you feel good when sipping, it also has a number of health benefits, including a raft of antioxidants and the ability to relax you.

To increase your pleasure and relaxation during your next visit to Spa Utopia, from Monday, January 17 to Tuesday, March 1, you will be offered a Tazo® tea treat, courtesy of Starbucks and Spa Utopia, when you visit any of our three locations. (So plan to lounge a little longer to enjoy the simple pleasure of a distinctively good cup of tea.)

Tazo® teas from Starbucks are full-leaf teas made from historical recipes, created by master blenders who combine botanicals and spices to deliver a range of rich or subtle flavour cues. The teas are placed in silken sachets that fully transfer the flavours for your complete enjoyment. With their unique formulations, sipping a Starbucks Tazo® tea before or after your spa treatment offers a much needed daily pause to further relax, rejuvenate and refresh your mind, body and soul. As a spa guest, you will also receive a take-away sample of Vanilla Rooibos Tazo® tea to enjoy at home or share with a friend. This indulgent blend combines the crisp tartness of apples, the sweet, soft notes of peach, rich Tahitian vanilla and the creamy, malty flavour of rooibos for a rich, yet guilt-free cup of tea.

Here are the choices of Tazo® tea available for sipping at all Spa Utopia locations:

- Awake™ - This eye-opening black tea blend has a full, rich flavour with hints of dark caramel, malt and subtle smokiness. It's perfect with milk.

- Chai - An authentic blend of rich black Indian teas and aromatic spices in the style of the hill-dwellers of the Himalayas.

- Zen™ - A distinctly flavoured green tea accented with lemon and mint, best known for its sweet, earthy, lingering flavour.

- Orange Blossom - An uplifting blend of fragrant jasmine green tea, goji berries, refreshing citrus essences and other soothing herbs, this delightful citrus-scented tea will engage and delight your senses.

- Calm™ (Caffeine Free/Herbal Infusion) - This comforting blend of chamomile, rose petals and other soothing herbs has a wonderful floral bouquet with an apple-like flavour and distinct toasty notes.

- Refresh™ (Caffeine Free/Herbal Infusion) - Peppermint leaves impart a creamy, chocolaty flavour combined with the bright, piercing flavour of spearmint and a touch of the licorice-like flavour of tarragon.

- Passion™ (Caffeine Free/Herbal Infusion) - A bold blend of hibiscus, rose hips, sweet cinnamon, papaya and mango, this tart-yet-sweet tea may just ignite your own passions!

We look forward to serving you the Starbucks Tazo® tea flavour of your choice as part of your relaxation experience at Spa Utopia.

New Year, New You!

2011-01-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

Everyone loves the New Year! It's a chance for complete renewal, of body, mind and spirit and a time to set goals and find ways of reaching them.

Spa Utopia wants to help you reach your beauty and wellness goals, and we have a number of exciting programs and services to do just that.

For example, if feeling fitter and better weight management are your goals, or you want to ensure your family eats more nutritiously this year, we have recently launched Life Designs Nutrition Workshops with Andrea Ferguson and her team of certified nutritionists. The workshops begin in January and include Eat Right for Life (three separate seminars) addressing adults' nutritional needs, as well as Eat Right from the Start (a seminar for parents of 1 to 5-year-olds ) and Eat Right to Grow Right (a seminar for parents of 5 to 12-year-olds).

One of the benefits of taking a nutrition workshop is that you will better understand the concept of yo-yo dieting and how easy it is to set yourself up for failure when restricting calories. Learning more about the roles various foods play in weight management and how to make delicious meals that support your body, mind, skin, hair and energy levels, will help you take control of your body instead of being captive to cravings. It's well worth the investment and January is a great time to start! Read more about Life Designs Nutrition Workshops here.

If reducing the level of stress you experience is on your radar for 2011, Spa Utopia has a number of services that can help you relax more. Advanced Therapeutic Massage sessions, including those that address tension headaches, breathing and digestive problems, are all ways to help you better manage your stressors. You might also consider booking a Detoxifying Body Treatment such as the Spa Utopia Monticelli Soothing Mud or Ocean Detox Wrap to kick-start (and maintain) the new you. You can read more about our Advanced Therapeutic Massage treatments here and Detoxifying Body Treatments here.

One of the many ways people choose to celebrate the new year is with a different "look." A new hair style from the world class stylists at our Spa Utopia Salon locations, a makeover using healthy mineral makeup, or a simple manicure and pedicure are great ways to renew yourself in preparation for the year ahead. You can read more about our Salon Hair Services and Makeup Application here.

If 2011 is the year you'll welcome a new bundle of joy to the world, you might consider Spa Utopia Healthy Pregnancy sessions—incorporating massage, specific exercises and hydrotherapy techniques to promote the health and stability of your body as it adjusts to changes throughout pregnancy. You can find more details on these popular sessions here.

Finally, one of the top two resolutions for New Year is to quit smoking (the other is to lose weight). Experts in smoking cessation often recommend rewarding yourself for milestones such as one week, one month, six months and a year. Doing something positive for your body, such as a detoxifying treatment, helps reinforce why you are giving up the habit.

To book any treatment or service, please call your local Spa Utopia and Salon or book online.

Spa Utopia would like to take this opportunity to wish all our treasured guests a very happy, healthy and beautiful New Year!

Spa Utopia introduces the BraBag and PantyPak: Luggage for your Lingerie

2010-12-13T10:24:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had to hold your breath as someone from customs rummages through your suitcase, praying they'll not hit upon your stash of not-yet-washed undies? Have you ever arrived at your destination, eager for dinner, to find your uplift bra flattened like yesterday's soufflé? Most of us have "lingerie nightmare" stories to tell, usually involving travel. And this is what inspired North Vancouver entrepreneur, Jane Webb, to establish The Brag Company (Brag is short for Bra Bag). Her fabulous "BraBag" and "PantyPak" were quickly picked up by the media and red carpet set, who were collectively thrilled with this great way to transport lingerie. Now available in a variety of fun designs and colour themes at all Spa Utopia locations, the BraBag and PantyPak make an ideal Christmas Gift for a travelling friend, a bride-to-be, or yourself.

The BraBag

Twisting your bra in the centre and inverting one cup into the other is not good for the shape or stitching. This is particularly true for uplift or other shaper bras. Slipping your bra into a specially designed BraBag will help it retain its shape so that it shows off yours better.

The BraBag is available in a number of themes/colour choices and two sizes. The regular BraBag can hold 1 to 6 bras up to 36C cup, as well as size 32D. Its larger sister, the Buxom BraBag, can hold 1-6 bras up to 36G and 38F.

The BraBag is available in a number of colours/themes.
Shown here, the ultra sophisticated Sophia.

The Buxom BraBag is also available in a variety of
patterns. Shown here, the flirtatious and fun Katie.

The PantyPak

No more stuffing your underthings in plastic bags! Now your panties can travel First Class in their own adorable case, which keeps clean and "not so clean" panties in their respective spots—and away from the prying eyes of customs officials! As with the BraBag, the PantyPak will also prevent "bad connections" with stiletto heels and other hard or rough objects in your suitcase.

Now you can separate your panties into "clean" and
"not so clean" compartments.

Choose from a number of designs to keep
your panties safely organized. Shown here,
the polka-dot Tiffany.

Once you've used the BraBag and PantyPak, you'll wonder how you ever did without them. (We have heard that many women use the BraBag for everyday bra-keeping, and that those who have had a mastectomy find them the perfect, discreet place to store their prosthesis.) You can find both at all Spa Utopia locations.

Spa Utopia introduces Life Designs Nutrition Workshops

2010-12-05T19:20:00.000-08:00

Although the expression "You are what you eat" has been around for decades, it is only in recent years that scientists and researchers have uncovered just how much of an effect food has on our bodies and minds. Whether we feel energetic or sluggish, upbeat or melancholy, and whether we feel overwhelmed or challenged by our daily workload, depends very much on what we consume on an everyday basis.

In recognition of the fact that our inside "beauty" is every bit as important to our sense of well being as our outer appearance,
Spa Utopia is excited to offer our valued guests Life Designs nutrition workshops, by Andrea Ferguson and her team of Certified Nutritionists. Andrea earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Dietetics from UBC and is also a BCRPA certified Fitness Leader. She developed Life Designs to help people achieve all-important balance in their lives. Now you too can benefit from Andrea's knowledge.

Andrea Ferguson

Beginning January 2011, Spa Utopia is offering a series of workshops—Eat Right for Life (three separate seminars), Eat Right from the Start (one seminar for parents of 1 to 5-year-olds ) and Eat Right to Grow Right (one seminar for parents of 5 to 12-year-olds.)

Eat Right for Life seminars include:

Part 1: The three keys to healthy eating for life. No more dieting. No more gimmicks. No more food restrictions, just a fresh perspective on weight management, eating healthfully and feeling good about yourself. You’ll learn how to think yourself healthy and why you need to abolish the words cheat, junk food and bad foods from your vocabulary. You’ll be excited and inspired about your new way of thinking and the results you will achieve.

Part 2: The five steps to determining what foods are right for you. Take control and learn how to become an expert label reader. By fully understanding nutritional labelling you will avoid making unhealthy food choices and avoid falling for marketing gimmicks that are a waste of your hard-earned money.

Part 3: The ten secrets to preparing easy, healthy meals and eliminating stress associated with mealtimes. Save time and money by becoming your own expert meal planner. Taught in a step-by-step format and with a simple-to-use guide to meal planning, this workshop will enable you to eliminate the stress of meal time preparation. You will be able to eat the foods you enjoy and have a plan that works for all members of your family—including the picky eaters.

During the Eat Right from the Start workshop, you will learn how to end the mealtime battle-zone and give your 1 to 5-year-old child/ren the best possible nutritional start in life. You will learn many tips on how to judge if a specific food is right for your little one, and how to get a picky eater to love vegetables. You will leave the workshop with a binder full of helpful information and the knowledge to empower your children to become good eaters for life.

During the Eat Right to Grow Right workshop, you will learn how to choose foods that will help your 5 to 12-year-old child/ren grow healthy and strong — in body as well as intellectual development. You will leave with the resources, tools and language needed to talk to your growing child/ren about eating healthfully, and you will learn the right ways to discuss food and body image. This will foster dialogue to help build self-esteem and establish good eating habits for life.

These workshops are available at all Spa Utopia locations—Pan Pacific, Langley and North Vancouver. (Special pricing is available when attending all three seminars in the Eat Right for Life workshop, or both the Eat Right from the Start and Eat Right to Grow Right workshops.)

You can read more about the Eat Right for Life workshop here and the Eat Right from the Start and Eat Right to Grow Right workshops here on the Spa Utopia website. Please call or visit your preferred spa location to book.

Personal (private) consultations are also available with follow-up if desired.

The positive impact of eating healthy, enjoyable foods is immeasurable. Not only will you look and feel better, you will also gain a sense of balance that affects every aspect of your lifestyle. And when you feel balanced, there is nothing you cannot achieve!

We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming workshops.

Spa Utopia introduces SilkPeel™: the ultimate treatment for beautiful skin

2010-11-26T12:12:00.000-08:00

Imagine a skin treatment so advanced it gently exfoliates and infuses the skin with powerful antioxidants and other youth-enhancing ingredients at the same time! Better still, it can be customized to suit your skin's specific needs.

Spa Utopia is now offering SilkPeel™ Dermalinfusion™ —cutting edge technology that makes your skin appear fresher, radiant and more youthful in one enjoyable procedure.

While using a special diamond-encrusted head to gently exfoliate the skin, the SilkPeel™ Dermalinfusion™ unit vacuums away dead cells and other debris while simultaneously infusing your skin with a mixture of therapeutic ingredients, targeted to your unique needs. The solution doesn't just sit on top of your skin like a lotion or cream, instead, the SilkPeel™ patented handpiece delivers these ingredients to the skin's deeper layers where they are most effective in brightening, clarifying, and hydrating. Dermalinfusion™ optimizes the benefits of exfoliation and the effects of the serums without the often uncomfortable and painful effects that people experience with most peels.

The SilkPeel™ patented technology combines several different benefits in a single procedure, helping to achieve more youthful skin in less time and allowing you to see noticeable improvements with each and every session.

With four condition-specific treatment serums available, your Spa Utopia skin care professional will choose one or more of the formulations, targeted to your specific needs. (Due to the specialized nature of this treatment, a consultation is necessary prior to the procedure.)

• Skin Brightening – Vitamin C Solution: Harnesses the power of Vitamin C to infuse the skin with powerful antioxidants. Targeted for environmental damage caused by daily exposure to sunlight, pollution and stress.

• Skin Brightening – Lumixyl™ Pro-Infusion Solution: A powerful trio of Kojic Acid, Arbutin and Mulberry that work together to soften hyperpigmentation and to help protect the skin from future damage. Targeted for improvement of uneven pigmentation and dark spots.

• Skin Clarifying Solution: Salicylic acid is the primary ingredient in this solution. With the addition of aloe extract, even the most sensitive, acne prone skin, has an option that is both soothing and effective.

• Skin Hydrating Solution: Hyaluronic acid in this formulation acts as an excellent water reservoir to help preserve the characteristics of young healthy skin. Other powerful humectants added to the solution ensure your skin is infused with rich, nutritive moisture.

We know you'll love the way your skin looks after just one treatment with SilkPeel™ Dermalinfusion™!

For more information on SilkPeel™ or to schedule a consultation, please call your local Spa Utopia, or visit our website for more information.

Meet our Pan Pacific Spa Utopia & Salon™ Hair Design Team

2010-11-15T22:07:00.000-08:00

Ask any "It" girl why her hair always looks so great and she'll probably smile secretively. Ask anyone who styles the hair of models and celebrities known for their crowning glory and they'll tell you this: That exceptionally beautiful styling is the result of exceptionally talented stylists!

Today, we'd like to introduce you to the Spa Utopia & Salon team of talented Hair Designers, including Ziba, Parke and Mot pictured below.

Clockwise from Left: Ziba, Parke and Mot (seated).

Ziba
Spa Utopia & Salon Stylist, Ziba, has been privately trained by leading hair care company representatives of Davines, Schwarzkopf, Joico, Aveda, ISO, Paul Mitchell, Redken, Framesi and Goldwell. She has worked extensively in Laguna Beach, California, including operating her own company.

Ziba's expertise in colour and colour artistry, combined with her knowledge of specialized techniques, makes her popular with those seeking a little drama or a more natural look—just as nature intended. Creative, artistic and highly skilled in technique, Ziba is sought-after by Spa Utopia & Salon clients, who enjoy her quick wit and sense of humour as well as her ability to design a hairstyle suited to their unique personality and lifestyle.

Parke
Spa Utopia & Salon Stylist, Parke, is an Aveda-educated hair designer with an ongoing commitment to keeping up with all that's new and exciting in hair cutting, advanced colour technique, and make-up artistry.

To that end, he has recently taken part in workshops sponsored by Aveda, Bumble & Bumble, Davines, Kerastase, Rusk, Toni & Guy, Goldwell, Schwarzkopf, and Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics.
Salon guests are thrilled with Parke's ability to create the perfect hairstyle, and to make suggestions that only a true expert in style and technique could envision. A perfectionist with a fine eye for detail, Parke's love of his work, combined with innate talent, gives our guests plenty to smile about.

Mot
Spa Utopia & Salon Stylist, Mot, is passionate about healthy, stylish hair that causes heads to turn. Providing styling for the Celine Dion Concert and David Foster shows in Vancouver, she is a recognized talent with over 18 years experience, six of them with Spa Utopia & Salon. Highly trained in colour, cut, perm and straightening techniques for both men and women, Mot has attended workshops by Redken, Sebastian, American Crew and ISO, and has attended seminars by Tim Hartley, former International Creative Director for Vidal Sassoon.

Sought after for weddings, graduations and other special events, Mot specializes in artistic sculpturing, colouring and highlighting the hair, using her unique sense of "occasion." Salon guests are thrilled with her professionalism and flair for truly memorable hair design.

A special "meet your stylist" offer
Wanting to have your hair styled by one of Spa Utopia & Salon's talented stylists? Book any service with Ziba or Parke before December 10, 2010, and save 25%! Just mention special booking code PZ25 when you call our Pan Pacific location.

You can read more about Spa Utopia & Salon services here.

Spa Utopia asks, how social media savvy are you? (A lighthearted quiz)

2010-10-26T20:03:00.000-07:00

Have fun with our multiple choice questions!

1. You're just about to run out of your favourite face cream, shampoo, bath product or makeup item and you aren't planning on a Spa Utopia service for another couple of weeks. Do you:

a) Jump in the car and drive to the spa anyway. Who cares that it's raining and you have guests for dinner?

b) Decide that you'll make do with an inferior product and pick up your favourite item during your next spa visit?

c) Throw a hissy fit and cancel all engagements until you can get to the spa, or

d) Bring up the Spa Utopia online store on your laptop and place an order. Your favourite product will soon be on its way.

2. You've just decided to have a girls' night out with your BFF. Beforehand, you want to visit Spa Utopia for a mani and pedi and want to know if they can fit you in at short notice. If only your phone hadn't gone dead five minutes ago... Do you:

a) Knock on your neighbour's door and ask to use his phone? Who cares that he's tall dark and single, and your hair's in rollers.

b) Spend 20 minutes looking for your charger, and considering painting your own toenails.

c) Sulk and plan to wear gloves and boots all evening.

d) Bring up the Spa Utopia website on your iPad and conveniently book online.

3. You love being in-the-know about all the great specials at Spa Utopia. It saves you money and you feel like you're one of the privileged few. You:

a) Drop off at the spa every day at opening time and quiz the staff.

b) Don't worry about it. You'll find out from a friend when the special's over, but that's life...

c) Specials? What specials?

d) Grab your Blackberry and visit the Spa Utopia blog, Facebook and Twitter pages.

4. You've slipped up and forgotten your coworker's birthday. He's an angel but you don't have time to purchase a gift before work. You:

a) Rush out to buy a bunch of guy-flowers. You're all for originality.

b) Apologize profusely and ask him out for lunch. You just had too much on your mind.

c) Claim you were in a plane crash five years ago and have latent amnesia, or

d) Arrive at work a few minutes early, pull up the Spa Utopia website and print out a personalized Gift Certificate.

Your results:

Mostly a) Whew! You must be exhausted with all that running around. You need to book a pedicure fast (and check out the Spa Utopia website, shopping cart and social media pages when you have time...)

Mostly b) Common sense is the name of your game but you need to step out a little. Why not start with a new hairstyle from a Spa Utopia Salon? Checking out the Spa Utopia website, shopping cart and social media pages is also a good idea!

Mostly c) Oh dear... stress is clearly getting to you. You need a massage, and fast! When you get home, put your feet up and check out the Spa Utopia website, shopping cart and social media pages for light entertainment.

Mostly d) Well done! You're a social media maven and you deserve a reward. Spa Utopia would like to give you one. The first 50 people to make a purchase from the Spa Utopia online store will receive a 20% discount on any Spa Utopia Rosemary Mint or Moor Mud product. Simply enter the code BLOG20 at checkout! (Of course, even if your answers were mostly As, Bs, or Cs, you'll still qualify for this special offer...)

Spa Utopia Healthy Breast Care for October

2010-09-30T12:45:00.000-07:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and a time for learning as much as we can about how to prevent this disease. Some of us will run for those who have been stricken with breast cancer and others will give financially or donate time to breast cancer causes. And all of us should be more "breast aware."

Although we do not know what triggers most cases of breast cancer, it is important to maintain breast awareness so that we can recognize changes and report them to the doctor. Most lumps are benign, but it is always important to report any breast changes, if nothing other than to set your mind at rest.

For the month of October, Spa Utopia encourages every woman to become more aware of her breast area and to follow the breast health program suggested by her doctor. We are also offering a savings of 15 per cent for our Healthy Breast Care treatments. (Just quote the word "PINK" when you call in to book your service.)

Spa Utopia Healthy Breast Care Massage Treatments

Almost all women experience breast tenderness or pain some time during their lives. This could be due to breast disease, injury, premenstrual symptoms such as tenderness and swelling, or following surgical procedures such as reductions or biopsies.

Spa Utopia therapeutic massage treatments for the breast area improve blood and lymphatic circulation. Our goal is to decrease pain and tenderness, improve the mobility of scar tissue and to reduce the risk of some breast diseases. Your first visit includes a consultation with a senior Registered Massage Therapist to develop a breast care treatment plan. (Practitioners who give these treatments have a minimum of 1000 hours of clinical practice and have successfully completed advanced training in breast care.)

Choose between two 80-minute Breast Health treatments: General Health Care for the Breast and Post-Surgical Breast Care. For more information on Spa Utopia Breast Health treatments, please visit our website or call any one of our three locations.

Spa Utopia Health & Beauty Notes #1 Why sleep makes your skin look better (and helps keep those cold and flu bugs away)

2010-09-21T10:27:00.000-07:00

Virtually everyone has noticed the remarkable difference a good night's sleep can make to the skin. But
what exactly happens to the skin and the rest of the body during those hours of shut-eye?

During sleep, the body regenerates itself according to a complex schedule. Soon after we fall asleep, certain processes take place that are quite different from those that happen after a few hours of sleep. (This is why waking up in the middle of the night and not being able to fall back to sleep is so disruptive to the following day's schedule. Our bodies have undergone only part of the renewal necessary for proper function the following day.)

Among these processes is the renewal of the immune system—so important at this time of year when children are back at school and "winter ills" begin to spread. It's no myth that one of the best things you can do if you feel a cold coming on is to go to bed early. During sleep, the immune system restores itself and gathers together its cold-and flu busting powers.
During the six phases of sleep, the body undergoes a vast number of functions. During the third and fourth phase of deep sleep (each lasting on average 100 minutes), growth hormones are secreted. These hormones help repair and rebuild the tissues of the body, including the skin. During this deep sleep, or delta sleep, the body's cells increase production, and reduce breakdown, of proteins. This includes the skin's supportive structures, collagen and elastin. Any damage that the skin has incurred, such as that caused by ultraviolet light, is repaired during this phase of sleep. The skin's antioxidant activity also increases, reducing damage from free radicals.

One or two nights of disrupted sleep won't affect your body in the long term. However, missing out on one or two hours sleep nightly will age the skin more rapidly and gradually wear down the immune system. Chronic lack of sleep also increases the production of the stress hormone, cortisol, which further reduces the body's ability to regenerate and restore itself. If you're having difficulty sleeping, which happens to us all from time to time, you might want to check with a health professional to determine of a melatonin supplement might help you. Melatonin helps set your sleeping clock, which is why it can be so helpful if you have jet lag.
And how long should you sleep? When in good health, the experts say between seven and nine hours, with eight hours being the ideal. More than nine hours—unless you are sick—appears to stress the body.

Back to your skin: Since most of its repair processes take place during sleep, it makes sense to feed your skin during this time. Spa Utopia carries a number of professional quality night creams, such as Comfort Zone Renight Recover that will provide your skin with supportive ingredients. (And now, you can purchase these from our online store—at any time of the day or night...)

For more information on what skincare formulations will best help your skin's night time repair process, please talk to your Spa Utopia technician.

St. Tropez Tan arrives at Spa Utopia!

2010-08-23T16:14:00.000-07:00

Who among us hasn't wished for that glorious, all-over, glamorous tan - without the risk of burning, or dry, aged skin? Now, you can look as gorgeous as all those perfectly-tanned Oscar invitees, with St. Tropez Tan!

St. Tropez Tan has been in the business of developing specialized self-tanning solutions for more than 15 years. The result is an unparalleled sunless tanning system found only in world class spas throughout Europe and North America. The exceptional spa procedure and product line has a dedicated following of beauty journalists, makeup artists and celebrities, including the participants on Dancing With the Stars.

Available from Spa Utopia, the 15-minute full body procedure applies the special St. Tropez Tan formulation for a rich, natural-looking glow. The spray tan is applied by a trained technician, for the most natural-looking result possible.

Up until recently, one of the problems with self-tanners has been the tell-tale odour of DHA. This is the ingredient that reacts with the skin's keratin to develop colour. St. Tropez Tan professional and retail formulations now contain Aromaguard™ fragrance technology, which effectively reduces the tell-tale scent by 70 percent. To prevent the orange cast associated with self-tanning products, St. Tropez Tan contains special vegetable dyes that instead create an authentic bronze/gold hue. The formula also contains aloe vera for added hydration, increasing the longevity of your tan.

St. Tropez Products for Home Application (how to maintain your luscious tan...)

After your St. Tropez Tan treatment at Spa Utopia, you will want to extend the life of your new and enviable colour! (Your spray tan will last, on average, four days.)

To better maintain colour, we recommend St. Tropez Tan Optimizer formulations, which contain no colour and are also recommended to prepare your skin for a Spa Utopia St. Tropez Tan treatment.

St. Tropez Tan Optimizer Shower Cream: Well nourished, deeply moisturized skin is essential for a natural looking tan. This refreshing and luxurious shower cream is enriched with Mediterranean grapeseed, olive and sunflower oils blended with organic aloe vera, to help leave skin silky soft and beautifully smooth.

St. Tropez Tan Optimizer Body Polisher: This will refine and renew skin to create a long lasting tan. The large round beads are gentle on the skin and leave your body feeling polished all over.

St. Tropez Tan Optimizer Body Lotion: This luxurious body moisturizer blends botanicals, essential oils and herbs, in an aloe vera enriched base. For a richer, longer lasting tan use daily to replenish lost moisture.

St. Tropez Tan Optimizer Body Butter: This richly indulgent balm bursts with cocoa butter and natural oils that simply melt into your skin.

To further help you retain your glorious glow (or to develop it should you decide to go it alone), we recommend you use either the St. Tropez Self Tan or Everyday Gradual Tan product line.

St. Tropez Self Tan products produce a rich bronze tone and contain a "guide colour" so that you can see where you are applying the tan. Choose from Mousse, Lotion and a convenient superfine Spray format with 360° technology that lets you target those hard-to-reach areas. (Your tan will develop in 4 - 8 hours.) Also available is a Tan Intensifier - a lightweight easy-to-use lotion specially formulated to make your self-tan last longer. Simply smooth on for an instant colour boost. This unique lotion is infused with rich Mediterranean oils, antioxidant Vitamin E and a specialized blending of tanners to help prolong your golden, natural looking tan.

St. Tropez Everyday Gradual Tan products produce a natural looking glow with no guide colour. The colour develops gradually, each application of product building on the next. Choose from Everyday Perfect Legs for gorgeously golden gams, Everyday Body (light/med or med/dark), Everyday Face (light/med or med/dark), Everyday Mousse and Gradual Tan Spray with 360° technology.

Also available is the St. Tropez Self-Tanning Kit containing Bronzing Lotion, Body Polish and Body Moisturizer.

Spa Utopia also carries a handy application mitt and St. Tropez Self-tan Remover, which helps keep your hands free from colour, and "undoes" areas inadvertently overtanned.

Please note that none of the St. Tropez treatments or products for home use contains an SPF. It is therefore important to wear a sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

For more information on how you can benefit from St. Tropez Tan treatments and retail products, please contact your local Spa Utopia, or visit our website: http://www.spautopia.ca/

Therapeutic Massage: Enjoy it more at Spa Utopia

2010-08-09T17:17:00.000-07:00

Has your health care professional recommended that you undergo massage therapy? Are you uncertain of whom to call to set up an appointment with a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)? Or perhaps you simply wish to benefit from therapeutic massage outside of a health plan...

Most extended health care plans fully or partially cover massage therapy when performed by an RMT, a fact of which many people are not aware. Spa Utopia has for many years offered spa guests the services of professional massage therapy, and is in fact the province's largest employer of RMTs. What does this mean for you? That you can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of professional massage in our beautiful spa surroundings, and likely be covered by your extended health care plan! (Of course, any spa guest can enjoy the many benefits of massage therapy, inside or outside of an extended health care plan.)

All you need do for reimbursement by your extended health plan is to first check with your plan provider that massage therapy is covered (or partially covered), then request the services of an RMT when you book your appointment. After you have enjoyed your massage and attended to the payment, you will receive a receipt with your RMT's billing number, which can then be submitted to your plan for reimbursement. If you have an open WCB or ICBC claim, certain provisions apply.*

British Columbia Registered Massage Therapists have completed a minimum 3000 hours of training - the most comprehensive in North America. RMTs who practise at Spa Utopia are required to successfully complete additional training to ensure the service that spa guests receive is unmatched in terms of benefit and enjoyment. To maintain our high standards, we consistently evaluate our services and require that our massage practitioners participate in ongoing training.

Advanced Therapeutic Massage

Spa Utopia offers a number of treatments for specific health conditions such as headaches, arthritis, lower back pain, sciatica and neck and shoulder pain. These have been designed by Spa Utopia RMTs and safely complement medical treatments you may be receiving for conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, or stress-related conditions such as anxiety, insomnia and depression.

Our treatments include Designed for U, where one of our RMTs will work with you to design a specific treatment targeted to your primary concerns; Utopia™ Sport Massage to ease muscular aches and pains and get you back to the playing field faster; Postural Restoration for people who spend long hours seated; Tension Headaches for those who "carry" tension around with them, particularly in the neck and shoulders; Easy Breath for people with breathing challenges, anxiety and injury to the ribs, and Easy Digest for people with stomach and bowel issues, bloating or TMD. (All these massages can be adapted to suit your specific concerns, and to make sure you derive maximum benefit from your session.)

All session times include consultation and/or assessment procedures, and we therefore suggest your first session consist of 80 minutes.

For further information on Therapeutic Massage at Spa Utopia, please contact your local spa, or visit our website.

* Spa guests booking a massage treatment when they have an open ICBC or WCB claim, must book an RMT and will not be able to book a service with a non-registered therapist. Guests with WCB claims must sign a waiver and are limited to a "relaxation" service only (not a therapeutic treatment).

Utopia Academy. Register now for September 2010 admission!

2010-08-03T15:23:00.000-07:00

Are you fascinated by the world of beauty and hair design? Does the idea of helping others to feel and look their best excite you? Do you wish you could make a career choice that would truly enthrall you every day of your working life?

If so, a career in Esthetics, Hair Design or Massage Therapy could be the perfect choice for you.

Utopia Academy prepares men and women for careers in all three areas, exceeding industry standards in curriculum and teaching. Every year Utopia Academy graduates people just like you into rewarding careers as estheticians, hair stylists and massage therapists. Demand for these services has never been higher, and you will have the opportunity to capitalize on this growing need!

Esthetics Program (Abbotsford Campus)

Start on the path to success by enrolling in Utopia Academy’s Esthetics Program today, and in six months you can be well on your way to a bright future.

Utopia Academy’s Advanced Esthetic Program gives students a solid foundation with the necessary studies of regular esthetics and 50% more of advanced theory and practical applications. This prepares students for a solid start in the cosmetology industry. The full-time Esthetics Program consists of 900 hours of training over the course of 24 weeks, or approximately 6 months and is fully accredited by the PCTIA (Private Career Training Institutions Agency).

Hair Design (Abbotsford Campus)

Utopia Academy is respected by top salon owners and hair stylists. Our faculty of experienced and friendly professionals can start you on the path to a rewarding and lucrative career.

Your eye for fashion and design could be the tools to unlock your creativity as a stylist. Utopia Academy will mold your raw talents into something special while you prepare for a career you'll love. The full-time Hair Design Program consists of 1500 hours of training over the course of 40 weeks, or approximately 10 months, and is fully accredited by the PCTIA (Private Career Training Institutions Agency).

Massage Therapy (Vancouver Campus)

Our state-of-the-art massage college, located in Vancouver BC, is your best choice for an education in Massage Therapy. Utopia Academy is fully accredited by both the College of Massage Therapists of BC and the PCTIA (Private Career Training Institutions Agency).

With smaller class sizes, a convenient Vancouver location, experienced instructors, and training in Hydrotherapy, Utopia Academy is your perfect choice to start your career in Massage Therapy.

Guided by values of respect, passion, integrity and compassion, our program skillfully combines the clinical and wellness models of massage therapy and is taught in five levels. As a school accredited by the College of Massage Therapists of BC, we prepare students to succeed by teaching them the skills necessary to complete the standard provincial examinations. At the end of level 500, the student will have 3000 hours of tuition and will be prepared to sit for the provincial registration examinations set by the College.

Health and Beauty services at discounted cost (a benefit for both our students and members of the community)

Both the Abbotsford and Vancouver campus host Student/Public Clinics where students acquire hands-on experience performing services on clients. This means members of the public who might not be able to invest money in beauty services at a spa or salon can now enjoy quality services at discounted prices. (All services are overseen by training staff.)

Utopia Academy opened its doors in 1996 in Abbotsford, BC. The Academy’s excellent reputation in the health and beauty industry accounts for a 93%+ employment rate. The ongoing growth and success of our partner, Spa Utopia™, assures that Utopia Academy students can be confident that they are joining a school that understands the importance of a solid education, and what it takes to succeed in today’s health and beauty industry. Utopia Academy is registered and accredited with PCTIA (Private Career Training Institutes Agency (of B.C.)

It's time to make a decision about your future! Why not call Utopia Academy today at 606.859.3777 (toll free: 877.859.3777) to discuss our programs in more detail? You can also visit the Utopia Academy website at http://www.utopiaacademy.com/ for more information and to take advantage of our limited time offer $2000 Tuition Grant.

Spa Utopia Perfect Sense Paraffin Infusion Mask a must for hands and feet.

2010-07-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

If you are about to enjoy an Exclusive Manicure or Exclusive Pedicure at Spa Utopia, you'll experience the soothing, hydrating effects of a PerfectSense™ Paraffin Infusion Mask. You can also enjoy the benefits of a PerfectSense™ infusion as an add-on to any 75 minute spa or salon treatment.*

PerfectSense™ Paraffin Infusion Mask consists of medical grade paraffin enriched with 11 vitamins and minerals essential for healthy, vibrant skin. You will love the aroma and invigorating effects of the eucalyptus, mandarin orange, spearmint and peppermint essences present in this treatment. The infusion mask is heated to a comfortable temperature that increases circulation and helps relieve joint pain. The occlusive effect of the mask increases skin hydration for softer, more comfortable and prettier hands and feet! Many spa members simply would not feel they had the "full" treatment without a luxurious, relaxing PerfectSense™ paraffin treatment...

*PerfectSense™ Paraffin Infusion Mask for the hands is also included in the Utopia™ Signature Facial, and may be added to any 75 minute spa or salon treatment for $25.

Don't forget!

Spa Utopia's CHI ceramic nail lacquer promotion is still available while quantities last. This is a wonderful opportunity to try the polish that cares as much for your health and well-being as your beauty, and receive a FREE Base/Top Coat.

...and there is still time to benefit from a Spa Utopia exclusive 100% Canadian Treasures body treatment and receive a FREE one-litre bottle of hydrating Spa Utopia Moor Mud Bath.

Spa Utopia wishes you a wonderful, sunny week, so you can truly show off your beautiful hands and feet!

Spa Utopia is pleased to offer CHI nail polish - the gold standard in healthy nail colour that resists fading and chipping

2010-07-19T15:25:00.000-07:00

It's summer and you'll be wanting to show off your "perfect 20" finger and toenails. You also want to make sure that the lacquer applied to your nails is as healthy as possible. Toluene, formaldehyde and DBP have recently been isolated as ingredients that may possibly be harmful to your health and you don't want to take risks. Welcome to CHI: the nail lacquer that cares as much for your well-being as your beauty.

Free from harmful ingredients, CHI exclusive ceramic nail lacquers are chip resistant, long lasting, and formulated with CHI 44 Ceramic, silk and nano silver. Available in an array of 54 truly spectacular colours and finishes, they also contain UV protection to resist fading and keep colours fresh.

The inclusion of nano silver in CHI nail lacquers eliminates bacteria and fungi to ensure your nail surfaces remain infection-free, while silk provides high-gloss shine, superior durability and ease of application. Plus, you'll love the functional bottle design with soft touch lid for enhanced grip.

Also available from Spa Utopia are CHI Treatment formulations. Each CHI Treatment product contains the safest and most innovative ingredients available today. So whether your nails are brittle and weak, uneven or rough, there is a CHI treatment (or treatments) that is perfect for you:

• Strengthener – to harden the nail plate and help prevent splitting and breakage

• Ridge Filler - to smooth out ridges and ensure a perfect base for your lacquer

• Cuticle Oil – to nourish the nail matrix for healthier nails

• Base Bonder – to enhance lacquer adhesion for longer wear

• Drying Drops – to speed dry to the touch in just 60 seconds

Spa Utopia manicures and pedicures now include the optional application of CHI ceramic nail lacquer.

Right now, at Spa Utopia, receive a FREE CHI Base/Top Coat with the purchase of any CHI nail laquer. ONLY while quantities last.

We want you to look and be as beautiful and healthy as possible - right down to your fingers and toes!

Spa Utopia tips to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays

2010-07-12T14:34:00.000-07:00

Although most of us understand that the single greatest cause to skin aging is the sun, and most of us remember to wear sunscreen on the beach, almost everyone forgets their sunscreen from time to time. And even if we're vigilant about using sunscreen on a sunny day, it's easy to forget that the UVA rays that cause deep wrinkling are about us every day of the year, even when it's raining! UVA rays are the light we see as daylight. They penetrate deeper into the skin than the UVB rays that are responsible for tanning and burning, scrambling the proteins that form the skin's supportive matrix, in much the same way that heat scrambles an egg. They even penetrate glass, aging your skin as you work by your office window, or drive to the mall. (Have you noticed how your skin is more pigmented on the driver's side, if you often drive, and on the passenger side if you normally leave the driving to someone else?)

In the summer, the damage caused by UVA light is intensified by the UVB rays that are strongest at this time of year. UVB light can also cause wrinkling, along with drying and burning of the skin's surface layers.

Adding to the bad news is the fact that sun damage is cumulative—a little more taking place every time you are exposed to sunlight until the skin's collagen and elastin finally break down causing sagging and wrinkling.

All this could be avoided if we remembered to apply a broad spectrum (UVA and UVB protective) sunscreen every day.

Spa Utopia has a few good suggestions on how to make sure your skin is always protected from aging UV rays.

Available at all our locations is Pro-Derm™ SPF 60—a professional quality sunscreen that's free from parabens. Pro-Derm™ SPF 60 is light-weight, penetrates rapidly, contains no colourants and does not have a whitening effect on the skin. It is enriched with natural protectors such as Ectoin (extremely effective against UVA damage), Omega and Shea Butter, antioxidants such as Phyllanthus Emblica (Indian Gooseberry) and Vitamin E, and Rosa Mosqueta essential oil.

This product should be applied after cleansing, and 20-30 minutes prior to sun exposure, to allow the protective ingredients to penetrate the skin.

This outstanding formulation was originally designed for use with anti-aging or medical skin treatments such as microdermabrasion, peels and skin tightening.

Many Jane Iredale mineral formulations, also available at Spa Utopia, have an SPF high enough to protect you from the sun, (including daily damage from UVA rays). Especially popular and effective are

Dream Tint SPF 15 Tinted Moisturizer, a super-absorbent, hydrating and calming formulation that minimizes the appearance of pores and wrinkles.

Powder-Me SPF™ Dry Sunscreen - SPF 30, a translucent, tinted loose powder beloved of many Spa Utopia clients!

PurePressed® Base Mineral Foundation - SPF 20, a sheer, semi-matte foundation that also acts as a concealer.

Amazing Base® Loose Mineral Foundation - SPF 20, a silky, creamy and luminous powder you're sure to love.

Absence® Oil Control Primer - SPF 15, suitable for all skin types and may be worn under base or foundation.

PureMoist™ Lip Colour - SPF 18, a creamy, moist formula with staying power, and

Lip Drink™ - SPF 15, a colourless lip balm to keep your lips super soft and smooth.

Other tips to protect your skin

Always wear a sun hat. You'll look cool and your skin will thank you for it.

Wear long sleeves when you can. Arms age quickly as they are often exposed to the sun.

Remember to apply sunscreen to the back of your hands every day.

Always wear sun glasses when outside in the sun. UV light contributes to the development of cataracts.

Try to stay out of direct sunlight from 11 am to 4 pm daily.

A Special offer...

Spa Utopia Facebook Fans quoting the code provided will receive 10% off any product with an SPF purchased from Spa Utopia. To become a Facebook Fan, please click on the link in the sidebar.

It's bare legs time! Make sure they're silky smooth with Spa Utopia Comfort Zone Soft Sense Wax Treatment

2010-07-05T10:34:00.000-07:00

It's finally summer and time to bare those legs! Make sure yours are super-smooth and soft, with a Spa Utopia Comfort Zone Soft Sense Wax Treatment. After your waxing treatment, your skin will further benefit from the application of Soft Sense—an innovative skincare formulation rich in botanicals that both softens hair and prolongs the amount of time for regrowth to occur. (That means you'll stay silky smooth longer and maximize the benefits of the waxing...)

Spa Utopia Comfort Zone Soft Sense Wax is imported from Italy and is extremely gentle. The high titanium dioxide content allows the wax to be heated to a lower temperature, providing epilation with little redness. Our technical precision during application results in less hair breakage and discourages ingrown hairs.

Soft Sense contains water lily extract, which provides the skin with elements required to produce elastin and collagen—the supportive structures that keep it youthful and supple. Oils of sweet almond, wheat germ and jojoba work synergistically with allantoin to soothe and desensitize the skin, leaving it smooth and comfortable. Best of all, you'll notice your hair is slower to make an appearance again.

Of course, this treatment is also perfect for the bikini line. (In fact, Comfort Zone Soft Sense Wax may be applied to any area requiring epilation, including the face...)

Spa Special! For the week beginning July 5, 2010, Spa Utopia Facebook fans who use the special promotional code will receive 10% off a Comfort Zone Soft Sense Wax Treatment. (Just click on the Facebook icon in the sidebar to visit Facebook.)

Please note that a minimum growth of 1/4 inch is required for this treatment.

Celebrate Canada at Spa Utopia with 100% Canadian Treasures Treatments

2010-06-28T09:19:00.000-07:00

If you're a Canadian, you'll know we truly do live in The Best Place on Earth. (If you are a visitor to our country, we hope you'll forgive our sometimes overboard sense of pride...)

To celebrate the birthday of our great country, why not book one of Spa Utopia's unique 100% Canadian Treasures Treatments? These specialized treatments include West Coast Seaweed Journey, Deep Earth Mineral Voyage and Hot Chocolate Bliss.

Canadian Treasures Treatments focus on Canada's abundant and sustainable natural resources of mud, clay, salts and healing West Coast seaweeds.

West Coast Seaweed Journey

This treatment begins with a full body exfoliation to prepare your skin for our nourishing seaweed body wrap. British Columbia's outer sea coast is home to over 500 species of seaweed. Since sea water has a similar chemical make-up as human plasma, the body easily absorbs the rich nutrients from sea plants, including a variety of healthful vitamins, minerals and trace elements. Seaweed treatments help stimulate lymph drainage, reduce cellulite, rid the body of toxins, balance body chemistry, reduce tension and beautify the skin texture.

Next, you'll enjoy being immersed in our hydrotherapy tub to soak in skin-revitalizing seaweeds. This deeply relaxing yet energizing treatment is topped off with a soothing full body massage using our unique signature blend of oils.

Deep Earth Mineral Voyage

Following a dry loofah exfoliation, you will be treated to the gentle detoxifying and nourishing effects of a full body dark mineral clay wrap. Clay is one of nature's best detoxifiers. Its molecular structure allows it to absorb water and oil, and remove impurities and toxins from deep within the skin. In addition to its cleansing effects, our Canadian dark clay stimulates the skin's circulation, making your skin feel silky smooth, stimulated and refreshed.

After this you will enjoy a revitalizing hydro-tub session soaking in Canada's very own 4 million-year-old ancient sea salt. A full-body aroma oil Swedish Massage tops off this invigorating treatment.

Hot Chocolate Bliss

Satisfy your sweet tooth! After a natural sisal exfoliation, you will receive a deliciously warm chocolate moor mud wrap that will soothe your aches and pains and provide a deep sense of relaxation. The Canadian moor mud used by Spa Utopia is one of the rarest in the world, free from contamination and rich in mineral elements. Our moor mud helps reduce inflammation, promotes detoxification and aids sleep. Cocoa added to the mud increases your metabolism, encouraging weight loss.

Following your wrap, you will "melt" in our luxurious hydro-tub before experiencing a full body Swedish Massage. Chocolate...it's pure Bliss!

Watch a video of Spa Utopia Hot Chocolate Bliss treatment:

Please note that Spa Utopia will be closed Thursday, July 1, to celebrate our great country. As a thank you to our Facebook Fans and Twitter followers, you will receive a free 32 oz. bottle of 100% Canadian Pine or Chocolate Mud Bath for the month of July when you visit any Spa Utopia location to experience a 100 min. 100% Canadian Treasure Treatment. (To receive this special offer, you must quote the code provided on Facebook. The Facebook link is in the sidebar.)

Happy Canada Day!

Happy Father's Day from Spa Utopia

2010-06-14T07:07:00.000-07:00

Sunday, June 20, is Father's Day and you'll be wanting to show that extra special dad just how much you appreciate all that he has done for you. (And perhaps some very little people will want to show how much they appreciate all that will be done for them!)

Spa Utopia has a number of services just for men, including the Equalizer Facial to purify and rebalance hard-working skin; the Anti-Stress Facial to soothe skin exposed to harsh elements and reverse the dehydration caused by frequent flying or sun exposure; the Age Performer Facial to encourage a more youthful appearance; the Back Zone Treatment to help eliminate the dead skin build-up that contributes to clogged pores and blackheads; Nail Grooming for Hands, and Nail Grooming for Feet.

And is there a hard-working dad anywhere who doesn't love the idea of a stress-reducing, game-improving massage?

This Father's Day, why not treat the father/s in your life to one of the following massages? (A full list of massage treatments available can be found on our website.)

Utopia™ Royal Massage (100 minutes)
This full body Swedish massage will make Dad feel like a king! It includes warm towel wipes that increase circulation to the skin, warm stones placed on the back to heat back muscles, steam to the face and scalp to calm common tension areas, and a relaxation massage that pays extra attention to the face, scalp and feet. The Utopia™ Royal Massage eases aching muscles and induces the peace of mind that is so deserved.

Utopia™ Signature Massage (75 minutes)
Unique to Spa Utopia, the Utopia™ Signature Massage is perfect for stressed-out fathers. Surrendering to the sensations of hot stones and warm towels stimulates circulation and relaxes tired, achy muscles. Essential oil blends and soothing hands will promote deep relaxation and a sense of renewal. (Many men say that a deep, stimulating massage both calms and relaxes them, yet leaves the body renewed and refreshed. This is why golfers, soccer players, and other sports enthusiasts insist on a deep massage to help their performance...)

Utopia™ Classic Swedish Full Body Massage (75 minutes)
This classic form of massage is a wonderful introduction to spa treatments! A Utopia™ Classic Swedish Full Body Massage will promote Dad's good health by loosening his muscles and invigorating tissues, evoking feelings of tranquility and well-being.

To learn more about Spa Utopia treatments for deserving dads, please visit our website, or call your local Spa Utopia to book. We wish a wonderful Father's Day to all!

Introducing Spa Utopia New Services, and Service Directory

2010-06-07T07:09:00.000-07:00

As the days grow ever longer and warmer, it's even more important to nurture the body and soul. With revealing clothing comes the need to have skin that glows with health, and to this end Spa Utopia has introduced a new Cocooning Body Treatment: the Amazon Berry Wrap.

Summer can also be a time of stress, as we try to balance workload, family commitments, and the desire to get out in the sunshine for some personal play time. To alleviate a common symptom of stress, we have also introduced a new Advanced Therapeutic Massage, for tension headaches.

The Amazon Berry Wrap

Relax deeply as you are wrapped in goodness from the amazing açai berry. Açai berries are harvested using sustainable methods to preserve the Amazon rainforest and are rich in antioxidants. These free-radical fighters help protect against environmental damage to the skin.

The Spa Utopia Amazon Berry Wrap also incorporates capuaçu butter to increase the skin's moisture levels. This rich emollient is derived from the seeds of the cupuaçu tree, which grows prolifically in the rainforest. The butter is believed to increase the skin's elasticity as well as providing deep, long-lasting hydration. During this exotic rainforest experience, you will also enjoy a facial cleanse and treatment mask.

Advanced Therapeutic Massage for Tension Headaches

Designed by Spa Utopia Registered Massage Therapists, the Tension Headache Treatment decreases the musculoskeletal tissue tension that results from work and life stresses. Treatments may, over time, decrease the frequency and duration of headaches.

If you suffer from head pain and are tired of being "forever on the run," why not schedule a professional massage that will transport you to a state of deep relaxation? After all, you have earned it and it just may well put an end to the headaches associated with your hectic lifestyle.

To learn more about these treatments, or to book an appointment, please contact your local Spa Utopia, or visit our website: http://www.spautopia.ca/ Our new service directory is available now at all our locations.

Spa Utopia: True beauty lies in the spirit of giving...

2010-05-29T13:25:00.000-07:00

Giving back to the community has always been a priority for Spa Utopia. Employees, spa guests, shareholders and owners alike believe in the spirit of giving and reaching out to help others in their time of need. Just knowing that their contribution provides a better life for another person or persons in some small way is not to be overlooked. To this end, in 2006, we established The Utopia Foundation which to date has raised over $250,000 for global and local charities

Last week, the Utopia Foundation presented $6,500 to each of three local Charities—Canuck Place Children's Hospice, BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre, and the Rick Hansen Foundation.

Money is raised by volunteer staff who provide services outside of regular spa hours during our Days of Giving. Our staff and students volunteer their time, and Spa Utopia and Utopia Academy donate 100 percent of the proceeds from services and retail purchases. More funds are raised by staff organizing activities such as potluck lunches, bake sales, lunchroom "snack shacks" and donation boxes.

The owners of Spa Utopia and Utopia Academy would like to thank all involved for so generously volunteering their time and expertise to make these donations possible. This—and you—are truly appreciated.

More about Canuck Place Children's Hospice: Canuck Place encourages each child to ‘embrace life’ and believes in enhancing the quality of whatever time a child may have left by empowering them to live fully and joyfully.

At the moment, there are about 400 children and families from across British Columbia in the Canuck Place program. Their current budget allows them to provide in-hospice care for up to nine children and four families.

In addition to their core services in the Hospice, they provide consultation and education services to care providers and families. Because of the generosity of donors and volunteers, all of their services are provided free of charge.

More about BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre: BC Women's focuses its research, teaching and care on women's health and the health of their families, including their emotional, mental, social, spiritual and physical well-being.

The direct focus on women has allowed BC Women's to pioneer the creation of specialized programs designed to meet the health needs of women and their families. Donations enable them to give vital and appropriate care through: •Advanced diagnostic and other essential equipment •Primary women's wellness initiatives throughout the province •New and innovative preventative health programs •Research that will inform all their programs and treatments •Recruitment of the brightest lights in women's health care.

More about the Rick Hansen Foundation: Twenty five years following his legendary Man In Motion World Tour, Rick Hansen’s journey to realize his dream of a world inclusive and accessible to all, continues. Building on a lifetime of extraordinary accomplishments, Rick believes his best work is still in front of him; challenging us to dream extraordinary dreams, to focus attention on accessibility and to remind everyone that when we remove barriers, anything is possible.

The Foundation is dedicated to finding the cure for spinal cord injury and making communities fully accessible and inclusive.

Introducing Spa Utopia 100% Organic Moor Mud

2010-05-25T10:25:00.000-07:00

Throughout recorded history, various civilizations have understood the therapeutic and beauty benefits of applying mud to the body. Not the mud you'll find on the riverbank, of course, but mud derived from specific areas rich in organic elements that smooth, soften, detoxify and revitalize the skin. The ancient Romans, Turks, Celts and Wappo Indians were particularly enamoured with bathing in mud, understanding its remarkable ability to heal wounds, soothe aches and pains, and restore radiance to the skin.

Mud baths are therapeutic, healing treatments that help relax the body and restore the soul. Immersing yourself in a mud bath will draw toxins from the skin, ease tense muscles, alleviate inflammation and soothe arthritis-related joint pains.

One of the most beneficial muds, Moor Mud originates from moorlands that, over the aeons, have become exceptionally rich in organic elements. One of the best sources of Moor Mud is Canada's own Outaouais region, in southwest Quebec. The high humic acid* content of Moor Mud enhances its natural anti-inflammatory abilities, helping to reduce pain and muscle aches, minimize joint inflammation, and smooth the bumpy appearance of cellulite. Over 1,300 natural, organic plant enzymes, minerals, trace elements, amino acids and vitamins have been identified within the mud. Many of these elements increase metabolism and provide a natural ion exchange that results in detoxification. The mud also possesses natural astringent qualities to help eliminate bacteria and fight infection.

Moor Mud also contains natural cell-regenerating properties, and is a powerful antioxidant, fighting aging, and alleviating acne and eczema. This highly-beneficial mud is also recognized for its ability to naturally balance the hormones, as it is also a rich source of phyto-hormones (plant-based hormones).

Enjoy the Moor Mud experience at home

Spa Utopia™ Moor Mud products make it possible for you to savour the benefits of this unique mud at home. The Organic Mud Bath comes in two delectable scents, Chocolate and Pine both recognized for their sensory appeal. (The Chocolate is hydrating and the Pine energizing. You may wish to use both according to your mood and needs!) All of our Moor Mud products are free from unnatural ingredients such as parabens, TEA, mineral oils, propylene glycol, etc. and are not tested on animals.

Available from our spa locations are the following Spa Utopia™ Moor Mud products:

• Organic Moor Mud Natural Mask (with essential oils of lemon, rosemary and sage)
• Organic Moor Mud Bath (hydrating Chocolate, or energizing Pine)
• Organic Moor Mud Body Scrub (with essential oils of lemon and rosemary)
• Organic Moor Mud Silhouette Cream (with essential oils of lemon and rosemary. Perfect for smoothing cellulite before summer!)

*Humic acid is produced when organic components of soils decompose. It is considered one of the most beneficial naturally-occurring substances.

Spa Utopia Guests may use Pan Pacific Pool Amenities

2010-05-17T07:42:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wished you could prolong your experience at our Pan Pacific spa location by going for a dip in the hotel's beautiful saltwater pool? Well, now you can!

Spa Utopia guests at the Pan Pacific can now enjoy the pool, relax in the adjacent Jacuzzi, or simply lie back and enjoy the warmth of the sundeck overlooking the panoramic North Shore mountains.

Use of the Pan Pacific pool amenities is available to you on the day of your service only and restricted to spa guests undergoing a treatment. (We recommend that guests enjoy these amenities prior to their spa experience, so as not to wash off any of the professional skin care products or oils used during their treatment.)

Spa Utopia is pleased to be able to provide our guests with this extra amenity and know you will enjoy the pleasure of an extended relaxation time in these beautiful surroundings.

Spa Utopia Wedding Packages

2010-05-10T21:37:00.000-07:00

Your wedding day...

It will likely be the most exciting day of your life—the end of a courtship and the beginning of a new journey together as husband and wife.

Of course, you want this very special day to be perfect in every way, and for you and your wedding party to look and feel their very best.

Sometimes, all the planning involved can be overwhelming and it is good to know that help is at hand to ensure that you will be the most beautiful, relaxed bride ever! In fact, we believe that Spa Utopia is where "happily ever after" should begin...

To help make your wedding as magical as can be, we have introduced new wedding packages that will help you look every bit as wonderful as you feel.

Brides-to-be are very special guests at Spa Utopia! For the bride herself, the Beautiful Bride Package is the perfect way to begin the wedding celebrations.

Slip into a fluffy bath robe, take a well deserved break from all the planning in our fully-appointed lounge, then relax completely as you experience our Utopia™ 75 minute Signature Facial, Classic Manicure and Classic Pedicure. This package also includes trial day hair and makeup, to ensure you feel completely confident with how you'll look, as well as hair and makeup and add-on lashes on the actual wedding day. And as our wedding gift to you, Spa Utopia will provide a choice of a complimentary Perfect Sense Paraffin treatment for the softest hands and feet, or complimentary Smile FX Teeth Whitening Treatment.

For the wedding party, Spa Utopia is offering the Picture Perfect Bridal Party Package, complete with your own coordinator to make sure your "spa day with the girls" will be fondly remembered as a special part of your wedding celebrations. This package includes a Classic Manicure and Classic Pedicure, as well as wedding day hair and makeup. And, as Spa Utopia's gift to those special women in your life, all will receive complimentary add-on lashes and a choice of lip gloss or nail polish for last-minute touch-ups.

Finally, a Spa Utopia wedding package for the groom, and perhaps the best man and fathers too! On your wedding day, all eyes will be looking at the beautiful bride, and her own eyes will be resting on the man with whom she will spend the rest of her life. Of course, you will want to look your very best for her...

The 'Groom'ing Essentials Package includes an Equalizer Facial, a Classic Full Body Swedish Massage and Nail Grooming for the hands and feet. You will also receive a complimentary Perfect Sense Paraffin treatment for the hands and feet or a complimentary Smile FX Teeth Whitening Treatment.

With so much to do and think about, it is all too easy for the bride-to-be to overlook the importance of scheduling time for herself. For optimum health and beauty, we recommend regular treatments beginnng six months prior to your wedding day. Consider scheduling a facial, massage and pedicure every six weeks. For natural nails, we recommend a manicure every two weeks. And for healthy, beautiful hair, it's important to find a stylist you can trust and who understands the look you wish to achieve on your special day.

To learn more about Spa Utopia Wedding Packages, please visit our website.

Spa Utopia Mother's Day ideas

2010-05-03T07:38:00.000-07:00

She's one in a million, a very special lady, and you want to let her know that in a meaningful way...

If there is one thing a mother wants (most say more than flowers and chocolates), it's to feel physically and mentally pampered. In fact, most moms agree that "pampering" has become not a luxury but a necessity in their stress-filled days.

Moms-to-be need that special time for themselves too. Pregnancy is both a joyful time and a tiring time as baby grows bigger and moving around with ease becomes more difficult. (Hint! Moms-to-be love a pedicure because reaching those toes is no longer an easy task.)

Spa Utopia offers a number of treatments specifically for moms-to-be and new moms, as well as for "established" mothers and grandmothers! Also popular for Mother's Day is the Spa Utopia gift certificate, beautifully enclosed in a signature red envelope.

Spa Utopia Healthy Pregnancy series consists of five (5) 50-minute treatments or five (5) 80-minute treatments that combine massage, specific exercises and hydrotherapy techniques. (Treatments may also be purchased individually.) Treatments in this series are designed to promote the health and stability of the body as it adjusts to the changes that pregnancy brings. You can choose from five different treatments, designed for each stage of this miraculous journey. (Treatments include: Pre-Pregnancy, First Trimester, Second Trimester, Third Trimester, and Post-Partum.)

Spa Utopia Healthy Breast Care series may be purchased as a package of five (5) 50-minute treatments or five (5) 80-minute treatments. (Treatments may also be purchased individually.) These treatments are designed to relieve the breast pain that many women experience some time during their lives. Treatments include therapeutic massage that improves blood and lymphatic circulation to the breast. The first visit includes a consultation with a senior Registered Massage Therapist to develop a breast care treatment plan.

Other breast treatments are available, including General Health Care for the Breast, and Post-Surgical Breast Care. You can read more about breast care treatments on our website.

During her visit to Spa Utopia, the very special mom in your life will change into a snuggly white robe, sip a glass of white wine or our signature alcohol-free Rooibos Cocktail, and put her feet up before enjoying the relaxing Spa Utopia treatment you have given her. She'll be pampered and cared for in that unique Spa Utopia way that says, "Thank you for being such a wonderful presence in my life."

This Mother's Day check us out on Facebook and Twitter for your chance to win a Spa Utopia Gift Card for the special 'Mother' in your life.

Spa Utopia Spring Specials for guests of the Pan Pacific Hotel

2010-04-26T10:51:00.000-07:00

Spring, Summer, Winter or Fall...Celebrate each new season Spa Style!

If you're a guest of the Pan Pacific Hotel, Vancouver, you'll be pleased to know that Spa Utopia is now offering the Spring Seasonal Special — the first of four exclusives for registered hotel guests. For the remainder of April, May and June, hotel guests booking a 75-minute facial will be able to save 20 percent on an FX Smile Whitening session. (You can read more about this innovative natural whitening treatment here.)

Spa Utopia 75-minute facials include the following:

Utopia™ Signature: A deeply relaxing and stress-relieving facial using gentle manipulations with heated gemstones. The gentle strokes improve circulation and create a sense of balance, soothing and relaxing your whole body.

Delicate Skin Rejuvenator: Sensitive, fragile skins benefit greatly from this exclusive treatment. Your skin will be soothed and strengthened with echium oil and "heat shock protein" technology, which helps the cells function in a healthier manner. This treatment also alleviates redness. Included is a soothing hand mask.

Hydramemory: This treatment counteracts the aging process by keeping your skin hydrated and nourished. Hydramemory products promote elasticity and smoothness, while infusing your skin with hydration for a radiant and youthful glow. You will also enjoy a Hydramemory hand mask.

Luminous Glow: This brightening facial helps reduce skin discolourations by balancing hyperpigmentation. Active ingredients protect your skin from free radical action and reoxygenate your tissues to give your skin a luminous glow. Included is a brightening hand mask.

(For a nominal extra fee per treatment, you may add the Eye Supreme Treatment, Lip Blooming Treatment or Glycolic Acid Peel to your facial.)

Please note that this special offer is reserved for Pan Pacific registered hotel guests only. Guests must mention the offer at time of booking. Offer valid only at Spa Utopia at the Pan Pacific and cannot be combined with any other offer.

Not a guest of the Pan Pacific? Not to worry! You too can share in Spa Utopia springtime fun. From April 26 to May 2, our Facebook Fans will receive a free 6 oz Spa Utopia Natural Silhouette Cream (a $30 value) when booking a 75-minute facial or body wrap. The service must be booked and received within this one-week period and you will be requested to provide the code posted on Facebook at the time of booking. (Some restrictions apply.)

Spa Utopia™ Natural Silhouette Cream with Pure Essential Oils is 100 percent organic and contains both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory factors. It can effectively reduce the appearance of cellulite by increasing the flow of blood and encouraging the removal of toxins. Your skin will feel more firm and supple and, with repeated use, will continue to improve...

For more details on Spa Utopia Seasonal Specials for Pan Pacific Hotel Guests, please visit our website.

Restore the soul with our VIP Suite exclusive offer...

2010-04-19T07:25:00.000-07:00

If you haven't experienced the luxury of a spa treatment in one of Spa Utopia's beautifully appointed VIP Suites, then you may need to! Researchers into happiness and well-being understand that the simple act of sharing with a friend or loved one nurtures the human psyche in ways we do not fully understand. What we do know is that endorphin levels are elevated, and stress levels reduced, with benefits that last beyond the actual experience. It is why people with close friends experience better health, and why a loving social circle helps the elderly live longer and more productively.

While spa treatments are, of course, a luxury, it is a luxury we all need from time to time to restore the self and remind us that our bodies are the temples of our souls. The harder we work and the more complicated our lives, the more vital true relaxation becomes. To help you satisfy this need, for a limited period, Spa Utopia is making it possible for you to spend time with someone special in one of our VIP suites. From April 19th to 25th, 2010, if you book two 50 minute facials and/or two 50 minute side-by-side massages, you will receive a complimentary VIP upgrade (a $200 value). Space is limited and based on availability, so you will need to book early. Your VIP upgrade will include use of a private VIP Suite with fireplace and heated floor, a private Jacuzzi bath for two, waterfall shower, in-suite services provided by a personal hostess, champagne, and a fabulous fruit dip platter for you and someone special to enjoy in your exclusive dining area. Of course, you are also encouraged to slip into a fluffy white bathrobe and sip a signature rooibos cocktail in our welcoming lounge, as part of Spa Utopia's guided relaxation experience...

This offer is valid only at the Vancouver Pan Pacific and North Vancouver locations. For further information, or to book your VIP Suite, please call your local Spa Utopia. You can read more about our VIP suites and special offers here.

Spa Utopia's Signature and Hot Stone Massages

2010-04-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

This week, we are featuring a special on the Utopia™ Hot Stone Massage and Utopia™ Signature Massage (which features a hot stone component).

These popular massages never fail to please spa guests, who leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated in both body and spirit.

Here's what you will enjoy:

Utopia™ Signature Massage
Available only at Spa Utopia, our Utopia™ Signature Massage comprises 75 minutes of pure bliss. Warm towels, hot stones made from natural basalt (a volcanic rock), gentle, soothing hands and a unique foot massage with rich shea butter are just a few of the pleasures awaiting you! To further your pleasure and relaxation you may choose to use an aromatic oil. (Since many guests prefer a non-scented oil, we offer both.)

Utopia™ Hot Stone Massage
No longer just for the adventurous, the 75-minute Utopia™ Hot Stone Massage induces deep relaxation as the natural basalt stones are strategically placed on your body. Slip into peace and tranquility as your skilled therapist masterfully combines the warmed stones with gentle strokes to relax tense muscles and warm you to the core...

The use of hot stones as a thermal agent for therapeutic purposes dates back to Ayurvedic (Indian traditional) medicine, well over 5000 years ago. In Ayurveda and other traditional medicines, warmed stones are used as a source of healing energy, as they are believed to balance the chakras or energy centres and draw negativity from the body.

At Spa Utopia, the heated stones are first applied to strategic areas of the body associated with the chakras. The body is then systematically massaged with a heated stone. As with the Utopia™ Signature Massage, you may choose to be massaged with an aromatic oil, or one that is unscented.

At the conclusion of your Utopia™ Hot Stone Massage, you will feel deeply relaxed, yet energized, and ready to fully embrace the day ahead.

For further information, or to book a treatment, please call your local Spa Utopia. You can read more about our massage treatments here.

Salon reopens at Spa Utopia's Pan Pacific location

2010-04-05T11:45:00.000-07:00

Back by popular demand is Spa Utopia's salon at the Pan Pacific location. Although closed for a period to meet the increasing demand for spa services, spa clients soon let us know how much they missed the very special talents of our designers, and the unmatched luxury of the setting.

The salon reopens Monday, April 5, and promises to provide an even more enjoyable experience than previously offered.

All Spa Utopia salon hair designers are certified professionals who recognize that spa clients are seeking a look that sets them apart and reflects their personality in an authentic way. Before he or she is able to provide you with salon services, the designer will have completed Spa Utopia's extensive in-house training in advanced cutting and colour/chemical technique. Each designer is also committed to taking part in industry advanced colouring/chemical and cutting/design classes held within and outside of the salon.

Since Spa Utopia clients expect the very latest in colour, cut and design, Spa Utopia hair designers bring knowledge and expertise from the fashion capitals of the world, including New York, London, Toronto, Miami and Los Angeles. We stay on the cutting edge through photo shoots and competions, both nationally and internationally. As a result, our reputation has earned us the right to teach other stylists "the Utopia difference" during international seminars, hair shows and at Utopia Academy. (Please stay tuned to this blog, where we will soon introduce our designers...)

We warmly welcome you to experience the excellence of our reopened Pan Pacific salon, or the salons in the Langley and North Vancouver locations. Let our experience and expertise bring you the authentic style that tells the world who you are, and reflects the specific needs of your unique lifestyle.

To lean more about individual Spa Utopia salon services, please click here.

All hair services, except Deep Conditioning and Hair and Scalp Treatments, include consultation, scalp massage, styling tips, blow-dry, and a make-up touch up, if desired.

Find Jane Iredale's newest spring collection at Spa Utopia

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Is there anyone who doesn't look forward to spring? Energizing, renewing, and full of promise, spring is the time to try out a new makeup look on your winter-weary skin.

Jane Iredale's new spring makeup colours are perfect for the lighter looks we associate with the return of warmer weather, with soft honey tones and gentle corals complementing all skintones and hair colours.

Girls-in-the-know will love the Perfectly Nude collection which brings together all the tones of a lightly sun-flushed skin, with highlighters and shaders that allow multitasking for enhancing lips and eyes.

The collection consists of:

Perfectly Nude Eye Shadow Kit. Show but don't tell—a collection of five natural tones that can be used on their own or layered for a look that's uniquely "you." Choose from the gorgeous new shades of Cream, Foxy, Cappuccino, Antique Gold and Copper to make your eyes the unquestionable focal point of your face.

So Bronze™ 3. Ready, set, glow— the much-awaited threequel to So-Bronze 1 and So-Bronze 2. This beautiful set is suitable for sun goddesses and sun-shunners alike, providing a sun-kissed shimmer that enhances your features with a bewitching play of light. Use separately or mix together to add that special glow to cheeks, lips and eyes.

Lip Fixation™. For staying power that shines— Now you can do double-duty beauty with two great products in one. Each Lip Fixation™ tube boasts a lip stain and a matching, silky lip gloss. Choose between Desire, Fascination and Craving and use as much or as little of the gloss as the occasion warrants. Perfect for the beach, the boardroom or bedroom, Lip Fixation™ contains natural ginger for a plumper pout and avocado for a lasting moisturizing effect. This ultra-hydrating and long-lasting formulation is sure to be a hit for those longer, warmer days of spring!

Jane Iredale mineral makeup is never formulated with oil, talc, FD&C dyes, synthetic preservatives, parabens or fragrance.

You can find the full line of Jane Iredale mineral makeup at Spa Utopia (and remember to ask for your complimentary touch-up following any Spa Utopia spa or salon treatment). If you become a Spa Utopia Facebook Fan (just hit the Facebook link in the sidebar), you will qualify for a $5.00 saving off any item from the new Jane Iredale Perfectly Nude spring collection!

Spa Utopia now offers Smile FX teeth whitening system

2010-03-15T08:09:00.000-07:00

Visitors to Canada's most luxurious personal services venue will be pleased to know that we are now offering Smile FX Naturally White teeth whitening system.

A whiter, brighter smile is an instant uplift. It makes you look younger and healthier, and feel more confident. Having the service at Spa Utopia offers the additional benefit of feeling completely cosseted as you do so.

Smile FX utilizes revolutionary cool blue light technology to whiten teeth faster and deeper. It is safe for tooth enamel and the #1 choice for people with tooth sensitivity. Convenient and easy to maintain, your first treatment comprises three comfortable sessions of just 15 minutes each. If you want to maintain your sparkling white smile, you will need a touch-up treatment every two to six months.

Smile Fx costs hundreds of dollars less than other in-office professional whitening systems, and you won't have to lie in a dentist's chair or sit at home with uncomfortable trays in your mouth.

Another plus of the Smile FX whitening system is that, unlike "white strips" and other bleaching systems, it is also recommended for crowns, caps and veneers, quickly restoring them to their original colour. (You can help maintain your new, whiter teeth with the Maintain FX teeth whitening pen.)

And it gets better...

Spa Utopia gift cards are now in stock at all lower mainland Costco stores for a limited time. You can purchase two $50 Gift cards (a $100 value) for only $79.99 plus tax. This represents a saving of 20 percent, which can be used towards any Spa Utopia service and/or retail products.

When you purchase Spa Utopia gift cards at Costco you'll also save $10 on Smile FX teeth whitening treatment, plus you'll receive an additional $10 towards the purchase of the Maintain FX teeth whitening pen.

This special offer is available at Costco while quantities last.

Baby Nathalia Comes Home...

2010-03-09T14:29:00.000-08:00

Spa Utopia warmly welcomes baby Nathalia home!

Proud parents Michelle and Michael held their four-month baby daughter for the first time on the crisp, cold afternoon of January 30, after flying to Ottawa to meet her.

"It was the happiest day of our lives," says Michelle, who works at the Langley location. Two days earlier, Michelle and Michael heard that the long road to bringing their baby home would shortly come to its happy conclusion. Coincidentally, it was Michelle's mother's birthday.

"I picked up the phone and told her, "Happy birthday! Your granddaughter is coming home."

Michelle and Michael have known for a long time that they wanted to adopt internationally, hoping to find a child needing the love and care they knew they could provide. Michelle's long-time friend, Andrea, had two adopted sisters from Haiti and Andrea's family was actively involved in supporting an orphanage in that country. They started the adoption process for a Haitian child three years ago after watching a DVD that Andrea brought home with her from Haiti.

"I saw these children singing in church, the same song I used to sing, but in Creole," says Michelle. "It brought up a lot of emotions. I knew right then that we were meant to adopt a child from here. Despite their situation—they have nothing—they all had big, happy smiles on their faces."

As the weeks turned into months, it became apparent that the adoption process would not be a short one. The paperwork involved to adopt a child from Haiti is overwhelming, involving many stages. At any point, an oversight can happen, and later did for Michelle and Michael. Although adopting a child from another country may have been easier, the couple knew that a Haitian child was destined to be in their future.

"Haiti had chosen us when we watched that DVD," Says Michelle. "We did not make the choice."

Weeks later, Michelle heard from Andrea who had gone to Haiti and found a different orphanage called Rivers of Hope.

"For six months, we believed we were going to adopt a child from there, but then the birth mother showed up," says Michelle. "That same weekend, a baby was born, and given up for adoption. This was our Nathalia. It was meant to be..."

After months of waiting and trying to sort out the tangle of paperwork, in January of this year, Michelle and Michael were scheduled to sign the adoption papers for Nathalia when the unthinkable happened. On January 12, at 4:53 in the afternoon local time, an earthquakeof magnitude 7.0 decimated much of Haiti, causing death and devastation country-wide.

"Our first thought was of course, Is she alive?" says Michelle. "Seven-and-a-half hours later we found out that the orphanage itself was OK, but the director and staff had lost their homes."

As the world knows only too well, the situation in Haiti became worse as aftershocks, and a lack of food and water impacted survivors. Nathalia's caregiver in Haiti, Rachel, strove to find her the soy milk she desperately needed, facing unimaginable tragedy and destruction on the streets. Somehow in the midst of all the confusion, a missing piece of paperwork was found and the Canadian authorities arranged to fly the children whose adoptions had been processed out of Haiti and to their new home.

"It was bittersweet," says Michelle. "Nathalia would be coming home but Rachel, who ran the orphanage and had fought to keep her alive and safe, would be staying behind."

On Saturday afternoon, Michelle and Michael stood with a long line-up of anxious parents at the airport in Ottawa and watched joyfully as 62 Haitian children and babies walked or were carried across the tarmac. Two of the children stopped to touch something they had never before seen: snow. It was a bright, sunny afternoon but the sun could not match the brightness of the smiles that day— both on the faces of the children, and their new families.

"It felt like a miracle," says Michelle, pictured here with Michael and Nathalia at the airport. "But we wouldn't be holding Nathalia now without the help of so many others—our church, our friends, the adoption agencies, the orphanage, and Spa Utopia, which gave me all the time off that I needed to deal with the last few difficult weeks of Nathalia's adoption."

Everyone at Spa Utopia wishes Nathalia, Michelle and Michael a truly wonderful life together...as you said when you heard Nathalia had been born, "It was meant to be..."

WELCOME TO OUR BLOG...

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Spa Utopia is thrilled to welcome you to our blog. We hope you visit us regularly to keep up with all the great news and special offers we will have for you. As part of our Spa Utopia family, we welcome your comments below and look forward to responding to them.
You may also visit our website, and follow us on Twitter and Facebook. We look forward to meeting you on our social media, and of course, in our Langley, North Vancouver and Pan Pacific (Vancouver) spas!