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How to Celebrate Halloween with a Spooky Good Manicure

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It’s creepy and it’s kooky, mysterious and spooky. Some might even say it’s all together ooky. That’s right. Halloween is upon us. Witching you could celebrate full out? Us, too. But we’ll take eating fistfuls of candy and spooking our loved ones at a social distance if it means we can still make the most of this very scary year.

Disappointed you can’t celebrate Halloween as usual this year? Don’t be! This list of Halloween nail art is to die for and will be a fun way for you and your nail salon professional to get in the Halloween “spirits”.

Bad moon rising

Photo courtesy of: @nailsbykirstenchanel Instagram

Trouble’s on the way with Halloween nails this bewitching. Start with a seasonally appropriate shade of orange and steadily apply simple four pointed stars and crescent moons all over. Want an accent nail? Matte black or a pop of purple are sure to have you howling.

Blood feast

Photo courtesy of: @desirrees_nails Instagram

Let the salon professional create a mini massacre with your bare hands. A drip of crimson from the top down or splattered throughout is a gorgeously gory way to display your bloodlust.

Monster mash

Photo courtesy of: @beyondsociablenail_lounge Instagram

You can’t beat a classic. Whether you want a monster mash up or nail down a single spook, your nail salong professional can create a grisly grip using only a few key colors and a tiny brush for detailing.

The great pumpkin

Photo courtesy of: @nailsbysophieerosiee Instagram

This matte orange menagerie packs quite the pumpkin punch. One flesh colored or black backdrop and your nail salon manicurist can conjure a single gourd to rule them all. Or, if you’re feeling the Halloween spirit, let her paint a whole patch!

Boils and ghouls

Photo courtesy of: @nails_inspo_ie Instagram

Your salon professional will have as much fun as you making this hauntingly memorable nail art. From their translucent tails to their expressive exoskeleton, these sweet specters will spirit you away.  

Candy crush

Photo courtesy of: @michelle.nailedit Instagram

Got a sweet tooth? Every salon will have these three simple shades to recreate the most iconic candy of all time. Pairs well with pumpkin spice and black liquorish for a devilish feeding frenzy.  

Skin and bones

Photo courtesy of: @lexurynails Instagram

Twist the bones and bend the back. Trim thee of your baby fat. Give her nails black as night, just … like… thisss. (Ps – thanks for the inspiration, Winifred Sanderson).

To die for nails

Photo courtesy of: @julie.regalnails Instagram

This murderous mix of black, red, and white are all you need to shine this Halloween. Drip blood from the base and have your accomplice help you scribe the remaining letters to really drive your maniacal message home.

If you’re not sure how to make the most of this year’s truly eerie all hallows eve, these salon manicure ideas will be the literal nail in the coffin.

xoxo,

Gina

Click on the Nail Care tab on ginasplatform.com to find the best nail salons in NYC and LA or use the Gina’s Platform app to find a Manicurist near you. 

Boost your confidence with a brighter smile

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Want to look younger? Forget painful facelifts. Whitening your teeth is an almost instant way to take years off and freshen your face.

That is if you select the right technique.

Though over-the-counter methods like whitening strips and at-home kits are popular, whitening your teeth is reliable, safe, and easiest when performed by a professional. They know how to gently lift stains while protecting your enamel and gums in the process.  

The result? Bright smiles that boost your confidence. But that’s not the only benefit of a beautiful smile.

Benefits of Whiter Teeth

Studies like those conducted by Dr. Dacher Keltner, a Professor of Psychology at UC Berkeley, showed people are assessing your smile from up to 200 feet away. Focusing here, people perceive whiter smiles as signs of success, markers of health, and indicators of vitality.

People with whiter smiles are often classified as more outgoing, warm, and at ease in social situations. (Read: they get more dates!)

Good teeth are also more likely to land you a job. A 2012 study showed those with good teeth were, “45% more likely…to get a job when competing with someone who has a similar skill set and experience.”

Many thought they might even be offered a higher salary since they could be seen as more trustworthy. “Nearly three in four (73%) Americans would be more likely to trust someone with a nice smile than someone with a good job, outfit, or car.”

How important is having a nice smile? These stats speak for themselves:

  • Close to three in five (57%) Americans would rather have a nice smile than clear skin
  • 87% would forego something for a year in order to have a nice smile for the rest of their life
  • More than one-third of these folks would give up dessert (39%) or vacations (37%) for a better smile

So whether you have a major event like a wedding, are job hunting, or simply need a mini makeover, put professional teeth whitening at the top of your to-do list.

Here’s some types you might want to try:

Teeth Bleaching

This tried and true teeth whitening method has been around for years – and for good reason.

Known around the dentist’s chair as “Boost whitening”, this technique uses hydrogen peroxide-based power bleaching gel to remove stains. Gums are protected from the solution before it is applied to your soon-to-be pearly whites and no special light is required.

The entire process takes an hour or two, but you will walk out with an instantly brighter smile.  

Zoom Teeth Whitening

This procedure is similar to the above. But instead of bleach, your teeth whitening professional will use a solution with 25% hydrogen peroxide gel and kick things into high gear with a special light or laser to lift stains.

You are usually several shades whiter after only one 45-minute visit. Results are usually immediate and long lasting.

Professional Take Home Kits

Want to whiten at home? Ask about having a take-home kit special made for your mouth.

Trays will be molded to ensure they fit with your individual teeth for maximum results. The bleach gel that does the bulk of the work is more concentrated than those you buy over the counter, so you should notice a difference much faster.

Give it about two plus weeks for maximum results.

Caps and Veneers

Sometimes the discoloration is not just on the surface but penetrates the tooth completely.  This means teeth won’t respond to whitening agents. In this case, you can beautify your smile with caps or veneers that fit over the teeth.

Some find this option a cost-prohibitive, but necessary alternative to whitening. This can take several weeks and multiple visits from the time of your consultation to complete the process.

How much should you budget for teeth whitening?

Each technique will vary in cost. Some professionals can make you bright white for about $150-200, while other more permanent and immediate methods can cost you $500-1,000 depending on which technique you choose.

Are your pearly whites looking a little briny? Restore them to their peak luster with professional teeth whitening.

xoxo,

Gina

Click on the Dentist tab on ginasplatform.com to find the best teeth whitening professionals or use the Gina’s Platform app to find a cosmetic dentist near you. 

Out of This World Celestial Nail Trends

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“Dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them.”
― Marcus Aurelius

Ready to run with the stars? With these celestial nail trends, the furthest reaches of space can be as close as your fingertips. Ahead is a collection of sky dwellers to help you nail down your next stellar shellac.  

Image: @delilahbonails

Northern lights

This natural phenomenon is a marvel of galactic proportions. Now, instead of having to travel to the tiptop of the planet, you can celebrate the swirl right where you are. The more cool colors you can work in, the more captivating your nails will be. At minimum, a dark blue, pop of purple glitter polish, and a blot of green will help achieve this dreamy display.

Image: @mayleidoesnails

Moonstruck

Unlike the moon, celestial nails are more than a passing phase. But capturing la luna in her many forms is stylish homage to this centering sky body. Matte black polish and white textured crescents make an irresistible pair so pretty you may just catch yourself fighting the urge to howl.

Image: @shesalussh

Starlight, star bright

Stargazers no longer have to look up to appreciate these magnetic sky fires. There are more ways to showcase your star nail art than there are, well, stars in the sky. In this galactic voyage, a shiny soft pink gloss adorned with five-pointed foils is a true gold star of this skyward trend.

Let the sunshine in

Image: @nailsbyrosmery

Who says you can’t stare at the sun? With this crafty nail art, Mr. Golden will be emboldened on your digits. We love this mix of celestial elements that keep the sun the main feature it’s accustomed to being. A neutral backdrop creates the perfect canvas on which to emblazon these warm, sunny rays.

Image: @kelceydoes_nails

Planetary alignment

Greetings from your new favorite home planet. This extraterrestrial nail art is truly otherworldly. The black base and glittery green will beam you up and show everyone you’re a true believer – in fashion nails.

Image: @nailsbyrosmery

Cloudbusting

Night and day nails are 24/7 stunning. For those who consider the sky the main stage, this cloud-accompanied nail art is truly the best of both worlds. Proudly display each side of your personality with the orange glow or blue beams of these sun and moon scenes.

Image: @realnailsandbeyond

Zodiac attack

Do you live and love by your horoscope each week? Zodiac nail art may be just what the manicurist ordered. Whether you rep your own sun, moon, and rising or embrace all the constellations in the sky, this one’s sure to get the stars aligned.

Intergalactic

Image: @ellielouisenails

Can’t possibly pick? Why not try a combination of all the celestial nail trends? Sun, moon, and stars showcased across the night sky with plenty of purple and flashes of bright white will have strangers stopping to get a glimpse of the galaxy.

With these out of this world celestial nail trends, you won’t even need a telescope to number the stars.

xoxo,

Gina

Click on the Nail Care tab on ginasplatform.com to find the best nail salons in NYC and LA or use the Gina’s Platform app to find a Manicurist near you. 

Why you Should Absolutely Believe the Hype About Microneedling

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Collagen is among the most celebrated ingredients in skincare. Maybe that’s because the skin is almost exclusively made of this essential protein.   

Experts have learned that the best way to encourage your body to produce more wrinkle-fighting collagen is to trick the skin into thinking it has been injured. That’s the genius methodology behind the collagen induction therapy known as Microneedling. 

What is Microneedling?

Fine lines meet fine needles. Used to create microscopic puncture wounds in the skin, these small but ever-so effective acupuncture-like needles create micro-injuries that kick the body’s natural healing process into gear. They’re similar to laser treatments, but work manually instead of technologically and come in a variety of forms from derma rollers to mechanical microneedle cartridges. The result produces new collagen-rich tissue reserves that plump and thicken the skin. For once the gimmick of “fight anti-aging” appears to be true.

While there may be some people who practice home microneedling, we still recommend visiting your local licensed esthetician or other cosmetic professional for your microneedling procedure.

What Are the Benefits of Microneedling? 

Microneedling is a multi-benefit procedure that targets a variety of common skin complaints. Though it may sound scary at first, the procedure is virtually pain-free (thanks to numbing agents applied at your esthetician’s office) and requires almost no downtime.  

It’s minimally invasive but can be maximally effective at: 

  • Diminishing fine lines and wrinkles,
  • Fading acne scars,
  • Reversing hyperpigmentation from sun damage or melisma,
  • Enhancing skin’s texture, 
  • Tightening aging skin,
  • Shrinking pores,
  • Increasing the efficacy and absorption of your skincare products, 
  • Reducing cellulite, 
  • Correcting hair loss, and
  • Repairing stretch marks all over the body.

You read that last one right. While most microneedling treatments are performed on the face, the procedure isn’t limited to any specific part of your body. Meaning, if you have a problem area on your back, legs, or butt this could be a simple solution. 

Just ask this Reddit user whose before-and-after stretch mark photo went viral once she showed off her transformative microneedling experience. 

How Often Should You Have Microneedling Done?

Now the only question left isn’t if you should try microneedling, but how often. That, however, depends on your skin’s sensitivity and what results you’re looking to achieve. 

Longer needles will elicit more self-healing collagen, but you could be looking at four to six weeks between treatments. Shorter needles may be administered more often. Whichever you choose, don’t wait longer than eight to 12 weeks between treatments to schedule a follow-up appointment and plan to have at least 3-5 sessions for maximum results. 

Though you should start to see a glowing-from-within radiance as soon as the next morning following a microneedling application, know that it can take several weeks to heal deep acne scars or pronounced stretch marks. 

How Do I Care for Skin After Microneedling?

Aside from some minor bleeding in the office and possible temporary redness, you shouldn’t experience any downtime. The pain-free procedure can leave your skin slightly more sensitive than when you came in, so be sure to liberally apply some broad-spectrum, mineral based sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

You should be able to wear face makeup by the evening hours after a microneedling appointment, but the longer you can go without the better. 

Avoid retinol products and exfoliates for a few days after, and step up your moisturizing routine. Consider adding in a hyaluronic acid to help support your skin’s natural moisture barrier.

In short, Microneedling totally debunks the whole, “pain is beauty” mantra. Ready to experience this micro-miracle for yourself? Get glowing by clicking the Skin Care tab on ginasplatform.com to find the best skin care salons in your area or use the Gina’s Platform app to find an esthetician near you.

xoxo,

Gina

This article does not contain medical advice and the information herein should not replace a consultation with a physician. See your doctor or a professional esthetician for skin care assistance personalized to your needs.

Best Shag Haircut for Your Hair Type

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Zendaya. Natasha Lyonne. Selena Gomez. These are just a few of the A-listers who are sporting 2020’s most grammable hairdo: the Shag haircut. 

The iconic 70s shag is everywhere. Not only is it a practical style for these socially distant days when haircuts may be fewer and farther between, it’s also cute with a capital “C”. 

But don’t worry. This isn’t your average Florence Henderson hair. Sure, the modern shag haircut still has its signature, choppy layers, but as times have changed so have the techniques. 

The trick to successfully sporting a shag is to make sure you choose one that fits with your hair’s texture and type. 

Whether you have fine or thick hair, whether your hair is straight, curly, or even wavy, there is a shag cut for you. Your hair color does not affect the cut as much as your texture and type.

Ready to get volume for days? Brush up on this guide to the best shag haircuts for your hair type before you make the chop. 

Best shag cut for fine hair 

Image courtesy of: @nicolamillbank Instagram

Anyone with a pitiful ponytail knows how frustrating it can be to live with fine hair. But a shag haircut promises thicker locks and instant volume, right? Not quite. 

The more layers you have up top, the thinner hair becomes at the bottom. This can cost you big in terms of split ends and can ultimately take your locks in the opposite direction, making them appear thinner. 

Instead, try on a pair of oh-so-hip fringe bangs. Having some long, piecey pieces up front will help the rest of your mane appear fuller. Add in some curled layers to really take it over the top. By doing that you can counteract the appearance of thin wispy hair and add more volume and flow.

Best shag cut for thick or coarse hair 

Image courtesy of: @madison.n.williams Instagram

Trying to trim down? A mid-shoulder length shag haircut could tussle your tangles into submission. 

This razor cut produces long layers that can really thin out a bulky bob. By lightening the ends you’ll be left with enviable volume without the weight. It’s slightly edgy with a feminine flare. 

Be sure to ask your stylist to consult with you on length options. If you’re feeling really encumbered, it can be tempting to lob it all off! However, you probably need at least some weight to keep locks from getting totally unruly. A professional can help you find the ideal length for your coarse strands.  

Best shag cut for straight hair 

Image courtesy of: @nicolamillbank Instagram

Straight hair often has less texture to show off a traditional shag. You can avoid coming in with one idea of what you want and leaving (disappointed) with another by making sure you’re realistic about what your hair type can achieve. 

If your hair has nary a bend in sight, consider a mid-length cut with lots of layers, and some shorter pieces around the face for framing. This will allow some hidden and natural waves to shine through to give the impression of more volume.

Or, if you’re absolutely set on changing your look, consider going short with your shag! The shorter your layers are right at the crown, the more texture you can create by letting your hair mostly air dry and applying proper product. 

Best shag cut for curly hair 

Repeat after us: curly bangs are the new black. If you’ve ever had someone tell you bangs simply won’t work with your kinky curls, I’m sorry, but they’re sorely mistaken. (You just need the right curly hair stylist to do it.)

Whether you opt for a shaggy bob or long flowing layers, a shag haircut will help flawlessly define your hair’s most standout feature. Those glorious curls will be unleashed and wow everyone who walks past.

If you’re not ready to fully commit to bangs, you could try a long, feathered fringe to start and work your way up. 

Best shag cut for wavy hair 

Image Courtesy of: @davidwbullen Instagram

You, my dear, have the ideal hair texture for a shag haircut. Lucky you!

Work with your stylist to pick the most flattering length, and enjoy the versatility of wearing your hair more textured, straight, or blow out to max volume!  The world is your oyster and embrace wether your waves are thick or thin and try out this versatile cut.

Hair in the time of quarantine doesn’t have to be all top buns and hats. With a shag cut, your tousled strands will look intentionally, effortlessly styled, even if the only people who see it are on your Instagram feed. 

xoxo,

Gina

You can find professional hair stylists and colorists near you by clicking the Hair Care tab on ginasplatform.com or on the Gina’s Platform mobile app.

Esthetician-Approved Summer Skincare Solutions for an Impossibly Fresh Face

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Fun in the sun can be grim for the skin. It’s hot, you’re sweaty and UVA/UVB rays are more damaging than any other time of year. This summer you’re probably also adding a mask to the mix. 

Not to worry. You keep doing your part to flatten the curve and protect your community, and we’ll help protect your skin from summer maskne (mask acne). 

Enter: the ESTIs. Though you wouldn’t know it to look at them, estheticians have to work just as hard as the rest of us to keep their skin clear and aglow during this sunny season – mask or not. They’ve shared some tried and true tips you’ll want to add to your summer skincare routine immediately.   

1. Adopt a light and bright routine. 

Treat your summer skincare routine like you do your wardrobe. When the mercury rises, swap out heavier products for a more breezy bunch. Think: gentle foaming cleansers, dual-purpose moisturizer with SPF 30+, plant-based toners, etc. 

2. Continue to moisturize. 

If you’re used to layering with oils and serums in the a.m., try moving the ones you really like to bedtime hours instead. Put a pause on heavier moisturizers, but be sure to follow each and every facial cleansing with a season-specific salve. Even if your face feels oily, skipping out on moisturizing altogether can throw off your skin’s pH. This reliably leads to increased oil production and, you guessed it, breakouts. 

3. Invest in a quality Vitamin C. 

This year-round basic is essential in summer. Whether you’re looking to correct hyperpigmentation from rays gone by or prevent sun-fueled fine lines and wrinkles, it’s a must-have. But repeat after us: not all Vitamin Cs are created equal. They’re known for being highly sensitive to light and air, both of which can oxidize even the most expensive serums prematurely. At minimum, look for one that’s highly stabilized and comes in a darkened bottle. Bonus points if you can keep it in the fridge and away from direct sunlight. Apply daily between cleansing and moisturizing; especially on days you’ll spend lots of time outdoors.

4. Increase your exfoliation.  

Ask any ESTI and they’ll tell you over-exfoliation is a big no-no. But in this season of sweat and swelter, it’s A-OK to gradually increase the number of days you (gently) slough off skin. Skip the scrubs, which can be especially irritating for sun-kissed skin, and opt for a more gentle and effective alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) solution. 

5. Step up your SPF. 

We couldn’t get through a ‘summer skincare’ guide without tipping our sunhat to this all day, every day fundamental. It’s the most critical element of your entire routine, and in the summer months you need to be downright vigilant. Set a timer on your phone to remind you to reapply every couple hours. Be sure to include your face, neck, chest, hands, ears, and lips. Go with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Consider investing in one that has a light moisturizer built in to avoid clogging pores. If you struggle with breakouts, try applying a swipe of rose water between applications or using a powder sunscreen (yes that’s totally a thing!) for the reapplication.

Remember that these are just the start of taking care of your skin during summer. You can also build some simple solutions into your day to help these tips really take shape like drinking plenty of water, keeping hot showers under 5 minutes, and seeking shade any chance you have. Get in the habit of building these summer essentials into your skincare routine and it’ll be smooth sunning from here until the leaves start to change.

xoxo,

Gina

This article does not contain medical advice and the information herein should not replace a consultation with a physician. See your doctor or a professional esthetician for skin care assistance personalized to your needs.

Click on the Skin Care tab on ginasplatform.com to find the best skin care salons in your area or use the Gina’s Platform app to find an esthetician near you.