This week's How To video is a little different. First, we're showing a spa treatment instead of a hairstyle. Paula is demonstrating what the MD Express peel is. Many people are confused and don't know exactly what a chemical peel is - an episode of Sex and the City comes to mind. Paula shows you exactly what to expect - it's a quick and easy treatment that makes a big difference! Also, you can use this video for follow-up at home with the MD Skincare Alpha/Beta Daily Face Peel. Use the same strokes around the face that Paula uses on Mary to exfoliate your skin and leave it fresh and luminous!

An MD Alpha/Beta peel is a recommended treatment for several skin disorders, including acne, rosacea, hyper pigmentation, fine lines and more.


I asked Mary how her skin felt a few hours after the treatment, and she said "it feels really clean - comparable to how your mouth feels clean and fresh after going to the dentist."

To follow up at home, Paula recommends using the All-In-One Facial Cleanser with Toner at morning and night to wash your face. At night, follow with the Daily Face Peel Two-step system, and finish with a good moisturizer.

The spa at Michael's is great for a relaxing treat, but spa treatments should be part of a regular beauty routine, not only for special occasions. Through the month of April, we are featuring special offers to re-introduce you to some of the services offered by our spa professionals.

Axxium Manicure

Do you get frustrated when your nail polish chips a few days after a manicure? OPI has developed a new gel lacquer system called Axxium that makes your polish last and last. The polish instantly cures under a UV light - no more being careful reaching into your purse or putting on your coat after getting your nails painted!

An Axxium manicure can last several weeks, depending on how much you work with your hands. Mary, a designer at Michael's says her Axxium manicures usually last about a week, but she has her hands in water and chemicals all day long. I sit at a desk and my Axxium manicure didn't chip for three weeks! For more information on Axxium, check out this previous blog post all about it.

MD Express Peel

MD Express Peel is a microexfoliation treatment that removes unwanted cellular debris from the surface of the skin, resulting in a smoother, firmer and more luminous complexion. It helps treat enlarged pores and gently calms redness with soothing botanicals. Results are significant, noticeable and immediate. An MD Express Peel is a results-oriented treatment, so if you're looking for relaxation, please check out our other facial options.

Alpha/Beta peels are especially helpful for those with problem skin - acne, rosacea, scarring, sun damage, aging - all of these can be minimized with an MD peel. For more information, check out our previous blog posts, or visit the MD Skincare website. Also, check back to our blog next week - we will feature a video with Paula demonstrating the MD Alpha/Beta peel.
UPDATE: Click here to view the MD Alpha/Beta video

Manicure & Pedicure

I'm sure most people are familiar with manicures and pedicures - but do you realize what having poorly treated hands and feet says about you? At best, it says you can't be bothered by little details. Sure, not everyone can afford to get weekly manicures and pedicures, but the nail technicians at Michael's can give you a good foundation that can be kept up with a little at home maintenance.

Manicures and pedicures are more than just polish applications - it's about maintaining the health and appearance of your nails. Your cuticles will be trimmed and neatened, hands and feet moisturized, feet buffed and exfoliated, and nails neatly shaped. A manicure is a must-have before a job interview, and you need a pedicure before you wear your strappy sandals this season :)

The spa at Michael's has many other services including massage, spray tan, waxing, and eyelash extensions. Check out all of our spa treatments on our website at michaelssalon.com/spa

Yesterday Michael's Salon had the pleasure of spending the afternoon with Jenny and Emily, co-bloggers at Mommin' It Up for a spa day filled with relaxation as they prepared to head to Blissdom in Nashville. On their blog, Jenny and Emily write about fashion, family and fun stuff that I think all women can relate to.

Emily and Jenny both wrote wonderful reviews of their spa day, which we can't thank them enough for. Emily's review is here on momminitup, and Jenny is a style and beauty editor at Blissfully Domestic, where she posted her review.