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May 31, 2013

Nail it this Summer! Hot nail trends – Summer 2013

Ashley, manicurist at Donato Salon + Spa, Square One location, shares her looks on the hottest manicure style for the season. It’s all about expressing yourself freely through your hands… this summer, they literally do the talking for you!

The Burberry Look: This look is inspired by the iconic Burberry brand. This is a style for the name brand follower who would like to add a dose of upscale flare to their already stand-out style. A stunner for a day look. For a more glammed up vibe, simply add a silver stripe and voila!… you own the night!

The Offset Symmetrical: This style suits the younger crowd and it is perfect for Prom! It is a look for the confident gal who likes bold colours and making a statement. This look is as playful as you would like it to make it. You decide… go for high contrast colours or same hue tones!

The Coral Ombre: definitely the hottest trend right now! This look can be tricky and certainly one you would trust a manicurist to! Yet, if you are into DIY beauty, you will enjoy achieving your own rainbow of colours with some skill and time on your hands!
The success of this style lies in the subtle transition of hues. The blocky look with harsh lines is a no-no! It is the “it” nail style and it makes any look you wear fun and carefree.

The Magnetic Nails: It is a chic look for day or night. I used Deborah Lippmann magnetic nail colour to ensure the longevity of the shade.  It is not overpowering; yet it sends an impactful style message. The waves move with you creating an elegant and dynamic effect giving you glam and oomph!

The Tide-Dye Effect: This hippy-inspired design is the perfect companion for a day at the beach or the outdoors!  It complements your attire whether it is casual, bohemian or romantic. This look truly accesorizes you!

The Half Moon 2.0: A classic  style makes a comeback! Its versatility has been  truly tested. Either the summery look of this design or the striking power of high octane colours will surely elevate your personal style to new heights.

And last, but not least, to ensure these nail designs look great, I  used Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab kit, base and top coat, to add further stability and strength to the nail. In all, nailing summer is fun!

May 29, 2013

Donato’s Beauty Files: A Conversation with Stylist Xristina Kolovos

 

In between clients we chat with hairstylist Xristina Kolovos, based at the Donato Salon + Spa, Shops at Don Mills location. Xristina pauses in her busy-bee schedule to share her views on Spring/Summer beauty trends and latest editorial work.

“Wow! where do I even begin? I follow fashion around the globe, and focus my attention on countries like China, Australia, Italy and Russia. I'm seeing a lot of colour for the upcoming season – particularly bright, bold elements of blues, pinks and aquas… and I mean… I see it in HAIR! Chalking isn't going away anytime soon. Also, heavy fringes are making a comeback, and so are ombres. I've actually seen a lot of ombres in fringes; believe it or not – long, heavy, square cut fringes with what looks like a dip-dyed effect… very edgy! 
 
As for styling, "SLEEK" should be the magic word for Spring/Summer 2013: Ponytails are everywhere. They are utterly simple and they are by far the minimalistic coif du jour! Low, smooth, and soft ponytails are very "in" right now. If looking to jazz up the look, simply wrap ribbons around the base of the pony to hide the elastic beneath. 

  
Wet looks are very chic as well – throw some hard-holding gel into your hands and apply into the hair when wet or dry for added texture and dimension to your hair. Knots, braids, loops, twists. you name it – texture is always a hit!

 
Editorial work is something Xristina takes seriously. Her hair collection has been featured in multiple fashion magazines with a clear mission: to empower women by re-asserting them in their beauty and style. “I love working with curls – they really speak volumes (no pun intended). The way the light bounces off of each coil is unique! Hair on a woman really defines who she is and what she's all about and I wanted this particular element to say "I'm a powerful, vivacious, fabulous and I'm here to stop traffic. I'm headed in one direction, and that's forward – and I'm never looking back!" See Xristina's work here: http://tinyurl.com/nrplzxe.
 
In Xristina’s own words, beauty is about creating your own signature look. It’s all about exploring the endless possibilities your personal style could be. And daring to rock those looks!

April 2, 2013

Now at Donato: G.M. Collin Professional Chemical Peels

Donato Salon + Spa adds G.M. Collin Chemical Peels to its roster of spa services. The benefits of these chemical peels are quite a few; namely, they are designed to  promote exfoliation of the skin’s surface layers, favour cell renewal, improve the texture of the skin, reduce the signs of aging, diminish hyperpigmentation, treat acne concerns, brighten the complexion and leave the skin feeling silky soft. 

G.M. Collin utilizes the most active and effective ingredients available on the market today such as Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Resorcinol, Vitamin C & E, in combination with other antioxidants and brightening actives to
provide exceptional results. The Peels in a nutshell below:
 
LACTIC ACID PEEL
What it does: Indicated for dry, flaky skin, fine lines and wrinkles representing the first signs of aging.  A therapeutic, antioxidant exfoliator specially designed for epidermal leveling. It  works to even out the top layers of the skin and mildly stimulate collagen while potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatories prevent free radical damage and irritation. 
Key Ingredient Function: Lactic Acid 30% AHA Exfoliates – Vitamin C & E Antioxidant  Niacinamide: Whitening
 
DERM RENEWAL PEEL
What it does: Indicated for fine lines and wrinkles and congested skin. A deep exfoliating treatment that combines Lactic and Glycolic Acid. it reduces total surface of wrinkles average and reduces total length of wrinkles with Arginine to promote skin renewal and hydration.
Key Ingredienty Function: Lactic 18% & Glycolic Acid 12% AHA Exfoliator –  Arginine Reduces irritation – Zinc & Copper Amino Acids Hydrate and other active ingredients
 
GLYCOLIC ACID PEEL
What it does: Intensive peel for lines and wrinkles, photo-aging, dull skin, imperfections. A restorative peel designed for deep exfoliation. It  works to even out the top layers of the skin and mildly stimulate collagen while potent antioxidants and
anti-inflammatories prevent free radical damage and irritation.
Key Ingredient Function: Glycolic Acid 30% AHA Exfoliator, EGCG Collagenase inhibitor, GALA: Antioxidant
 
SALICYLIC ACID PEEL
What it does: Indicated for oily acne-prone skin and photo-aging. A peel designed to exfoliate, relieve blocked pores, and eliminate the redness and swelling associated with acne. It also stimulates collagen, decreases redness, reduces total surface of wrinkles and improves hydration.
Key Ingredient Function: Salicylic Acid 2% BHA Exfoliator, Mandelic Acid 24% AHA: Exfoliator, Glycolic Acid 4% AHA: Exfoliator, SabiwhiteTM: Skin Whitening
and other active ingredients
 
G.M. Collin chemical peels are designed to provide progressive results.  Although a visible difference can be achieved from the initial peeling, it is recommended to be prescribed in a series of 4 to 6 treatments. Your Donato esthetician will assess and discuss with you the number of peelings required depending on the severity of the skin condition(s) to be treated.He/she will design a complete care program  consisting of a peel treatment package coupled with mandatory home care products to ensure you achieve the desired results.  
 

March 28, 2013

NEW & REVOLUTIONARY & NOW AT DONATO: Express Renewal Keratin Treatment by Keratherapy

 

The days of frizzy hair should be officially declared GONE with the arrival of The Express Renewal KeratinTreatment by Keratherapy.
 
This treatment sets the bar really high for the rest of traditional keratin treatments containing harmful chemicals. In contrast, Express Renewal by Keratherapy contains ZERO formaldehyde and it is as easy as spraying it on and sealing it in.
This revolutionary keratin treatment was developed as a fast, safe and natural way to remove frizz, rejuvenate, smooth and revive the hair. Its mighty combination of Wild Bilberry, Sugar Cane, Ginseng and Ginger Root Extract transform ordinary, overworked hair into silky, shiny, healthy looking hair for up to 6 weeks
The benefits of this smoothing system are many, indeed. Its formulation includes a blend of pure keratin, plant extracts, collagen and amino acids to combat frizz and restore strength and managibility to weakened hair fibers. And most importantly, the Express Renewal by Keratherapy complies with Canada’s health agencies.
 
Come by any Donato location and our hairstylists will be delighted to take your hair from dull to doll-worthy!
 

March 13, 2013

Summer Approaching… Time to Start Thinking SUN-PROTECTION!

 Oh the Sun…! Some worship it as the ultimate source of energy while others… not as much! Here are some facts you should know about it:

  • Sun causes 90% of all skin cancers. Be cautious when on the beach as it is about 80% stronger when reflected on the sand and snow.

  • The sun's rays increase in intensity about 4% for every 1,000-foot rise in altitude.

  •  Overcast days are not much safer than those that are sunny, as 70-80% of the sun's ultraviolet rays can get through the clouds.

  •  If going for sport activities, it's better to play or engage in sports before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. If that's not possible, try to avoid being out at high noon.

  • Health wise, the sun weakens the immune system, reducing your defenses against infection.

As days are getting sunnier, sun-protection becomes a key part of your beauty routine. Here is a review of some highly effective products to consider for your sun-care needs.

Elta MD SPF 30+. This cream delivers  a broad-spectrum of UVA/UVB Sun Protection. SPF 30+ with Zinc Oxide. Specifically formulated to provide moisturizing UV protection for the face, either alone or under makeup. It’s got a light, fluffy moisturizing base with an elegant feel which makes it ideal for all skin types, especially moderate to dry skin types.

I highly recommend it as part of a post- laser treatment, microdermabrasion and IPL treatments, and chemical and glycolic peels. Noncomedogenic, paraben-free, fragrance-free and sensitivity-free.

 

 

DCL Dermatologic Cosmetic Laboratories Super Sheer Sunscreen SPF 50 is a broad-spectrum sunscreen and antioxidant with a sheer, matte finish. This highly protective formulation blocks both UVA and UVB rays with Zinc Oxide 10.5% and Octinoxate 7.5% while antioxidants (Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate and Ubiquinone) neutralize age-accelerating free radicals.   This silky cream has a lightweight texture setting to a sheer, matte finish that never appears greasy or chalky (formulated with the latest microfine zinc). It  is free of PABA and fragrances, making it suitable for all skin types. Directions: Apply DCL Sunscreen liberally 30 minutes before sun exposure and as often as needed.  Reapply DCL Super Sheer Sunscreen after towel drying, swimming, perspiring or every 2 hours

Dermalogica Solar Defense Booster SPF 50. This products goes a long way! This Broad Spectrum sunscreen adds critical UVA and UVB defense to your moisturizer or foundation. It is ideal for all skin conditions and it has been formulated without artificial fragrances and colors. Simply apply evenly and liberally to face, preferable 30 minutes prior to sun exposure, or mix your moisturizer or foundation, then apply. For continuous coverage, apply regularly and re-apply as needed after swimming and exercise. 

… And with this word of caution, go ahead and enjoy the Sun!  

 

February 6, 2013

Achieving a Flawless Face Calls for Priming!

 

Your face is a canvas and as any good one, it takes some prepping before the painter, you in this case, can create a master work of art!
 
Let’s admit it… even skin tone with flawless complexion is a craving most girls have! We look at those models in magazines and we wonder “How do they do it?”. As a matter of fact, the secret is in the combination of primer and foundation… the two products to have on your beauty case at home and on the go!
 
Stila cosmetics feature a wide range of primers designed to improve skin appearance, moisturize, correct colour, give a warmer tone to skin, illuminate and act as an eye shadow base.
 
Stila primers will also help to even out a skin tone which means you would require less foundation to create a “flawless finish”. Not only will you require less foundation to cover up uneven skin tone, but it will also allow you to wear less heavy types of foundations… after all, who likes that heavy, caky make up look?
 
Stila primers also excel at preventing makeup from being consumed by the skin. This means re-applying less throughout the day; saving both time and foundation. Using a primer before applying foundation allows the foundation to stay put and
ensures a perfect finish lasting all day.
 
Check out these two looks illustrating the importance of using a primer before foundation.
 
Model Sarah wears only foundation. Notice a "not-so-made-up" complexion after 5 hours of wear.
 
On the following sequence of photos, model Sarah was “primed” before foundation was applied. Notice her perfect complexion after 5 hours of wear.
Need to say anything else?… your beautiful skin NEEDS PRIMER before applying foundation. If you want to make sure your make up remains intact the entire day, there is a primer for that!

January 30, 2013

Beautiful Feet are Just a Micro Pedi Away!

The sensation of smooth and healthy-looking feet is priceless! But it certainly comes with a good share of time and work!

The Micro Pedi by Emjoi is your aid to transform unsightly feet into incredibly beautiful ones!


Maria - Esthetician at Donato Salon + Spa Square OneMaria, esthetician at Donato Square One recommends using the Micro Pedi Mechanical Foot File to maintain your feet’s good looks in between your spa appointments. She explains why:

Less Work – Less Time. With unique micro-mineral rollers spinning 360 degrees at 30 times per second, it removes the roughest of skin in seconds leaving you with beautiful, soft and smooth feet.

Safe and easy. No need to tire your muscles with manual work. This tool takes the chore out of smoothing skin on the feet. No grater or metal scraper used which use blades to cut the skin.

Long Tool Life. Comes with removable refill files for easy replacements. Easy to disinfect and clean up. With this tool now available, there are no excuses not to show off your beautiful feet all year long!
 

Today is Tata Harper Day at Donato!

 

Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser is a must-try beauty product!

Tata Harper is now available at Donato Salon + Spa! This new addition to our skin care roster comes with a lot of acclaim from both beauty-conscious gals and industry connoisseurs.

Carmen, esthetician at Donato – Square One location, is a self-confessed Tata Harper raving fan who believes the benefits of this 100% organic and non-toxic skin care line are too many not to be shared!

“Tata Harper features a whole range of highly performing products; yet, the Regenerating Cleanser is my secret beauty weapon!”, says Carmen.

“This versatile product is a gentle, non-foaming cleanser that exfoliates, detoxifies skin and stimulates circulation while reducing the appearance of pores and toning the skin without drying it out. A great product to have!
 
Meet Skincare Expert Tata Harper For a Personal Beauty Consultation

• Savvy tips for a unique, customized beauty routine including a mini facial tutorial

• Benefits and strengths of Tata Harper skincare line
 
Plus FREE Tata Harper sample Gift Set with any two purchases of Tata Harper skin care products.

Wednesday, January 30, 4:00pm – 7:00pm Square One Location

Call to book your appointment 905 566 5900

Don't Miss this Appointment for Beauty!  



January 28, 2013

Embrace a Fresh Start with Tata Harper Skin Care

 

Tata Harper Skin Care is now counted among the roster of high-performance skin care lines Donato carries in its Beauty and Cosmetic Boutique.

Tata Harper is well known among skin care connoisseurs for its proven ability to advance vitality, foster radiance and inspire an overall sense of well-being (… who wouldn’t fall for that!).

On Wednesday, January 30, 2013 Donato brings you a unique opportunity to meet Tata Harper herself (the lady behind this brand!) at its Square One location. Tata will be holding personal beauty consultations from 4 to 7 pm to share her expertise in matters of skin care and the strengths of her eponymous line.

Visit Donato and discover Tata Harper, a 100% natural and 100% non-toxic line enjoying wide recognition for its multi-active formulations that guarantee maximum anti-aging results and optimal quality and freshness.

This is an invite to join Tata Harper’s forward-thinking revolution. In her own words, … “read labels and get active…”. Those are the right steps to looking and feeling beautiful without sacrificing good health!

 Hope to see you this coming Wednesday, January 30 at Donato – Square One location!

January 23, 2013

Donato Stylist Picks. A Glance at Kerastase’s New Beauty Potions!

Donato Hairstylist Ruby

Donato Hairstylist Ruby is excited about Kérastase’s new beauty products. She pauses for a short while to share the amazing benefits of these hair beautifiers! Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime  Elixir Ultime is becoming a buzz word! The ways to use it are many! Either as a before shampoo treatment, a leave-in conditioner after cleansing, a post-blow dry smoothing aid and/or an ultimate shine finishing serum. It works wonders for all hair types!

Elixir Ultime The Imperial  A versatile oil for colour-treated hair. I highly recommend it for brunettes. It highlights copper and red tones,  enhancing dimensional hair! With the highest concentrations of flavonoids and white tea extract, Imperial Tea offers UV protection and enhances the true depth of colour. This product would be a great choice for an Eva Longoria.

Elixir Ultime Rose Millenaire   For fine and sensitized hair with damaged cuticles. Perfect for blondes and redheads with over processed hair. Provides lightweight softness and shine. Rich in Vitamin E, Millenium Rose protects fine hair against free radicals and delivers lightweight nourishment. Very light in texture, the formula doesn’t weigh hair down or leave a greasy feel. Fine hair feels nourished and soft.  I would recommend this product for a Jessica Chastain or a Lady Gaga!

Elixir Moringa Immortel   A versatile oil for damaged hair. Multi-purpose scented oil nourishes, protects and imparts radiant shine. Rich in Vitamin A and C, Immortal Moringa is highly concentrated with calcium, iron and magnesium. Light in texture, this formula delivers essential nutrients to replenish damaged hair. This oil derives from Immortal Moringa, The Tree of Life. I like to call this oil “The Fountain of Youth for Hair!” Cheers to Sexy Hair!

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