Spa Like Treatments Right at Home - Guest Post by Michelle Pino -

Like going to the spa, berries and chocolate are an indulgent treat. Combining both is even better. Indulging in a do-it-yourself berries and chocolate spa treatment like the ones we are offering at SkA:nA is the perfect way to imitate the vibrant glowing skin flaunted down the Oscar’s red carpet this year. Unlike the celebrities, you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg to get gorgeous skin. You can keep both your arms and both your legs and pay very little out of pocket to make your entire body glow.

The following treatments are all natural, inexpensive and can be done in the convenience and comfort of your home.

Fruity Face Mask
Strawberries control oil balance in our skin naturally, which helps to prevent acne and breakouts. Honey hydrates, leaving skin feeling clean and smooth. The egg will hold the mixture together while the cocoa powder will act as the thickening agent.

Ingredients:
1/2 cup pureed Strawberries
1/4 cup Cocoa powder
3 tablespoons Honey
1 Egg White

Directions: Thoroughly combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Add more cocoa powder if the mixture is too runny. If too clumpy, add another egg white.

How to Use: Start with clean skin by washing your face to remove makeup and skin products. Apply the mask with your hands. Allow the mask to sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water followed by a splash of cool water to close your pores. Enjoy fresh, renewed skin!

Homemade Chocolate Pedicure
Whether applied to the entire body or limited to one targeted area, body wraps leave skin soft to the touch my moisturizing and providing hydration. A body wrap brings about relaxation as the skin becomes firmer and wrinkles and signs of aging are temporarily minimized. The following mask is intended for feet and can be done alone or with the help of a partner.

Ingredients:
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
5 strawberries
1/2 cup champagne
1/3 cup honey

Tools:
Microwave
Blender
Paintbrush

Directions: Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium for approximately two minutes or until chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Add strawberries, honey, and champagne to the blender and creamy and smooth. Add the chocolate to the strawberry mixture and blend until a paste is formed. Allow the mixture to cool to a warm, but comfortable temperature.

Remove nail polish, cut, and file toenails. Exfoliate feet using a scrub or brush. Apply mixture to feet using paintbrush and relax while allowing mixture to sit for 15 minutes. Wash wrap off feet, and pat dry.

Strawberries and chocolate aren't just for eating any more! They make for a relaxing pampering experience while providing excellent, inexpensive benefits to the skin.

“Taking time to pamper our selves isn’t something we all do, especially as busy moms and women. It’s something we SHOULD all do, however, because the benefits of feeling and looking great will translate into our daily lives. I love sharing these easy and efficient tips. Working at Skana, an upscale spa in central NY has given me so many great opportunities that I am now eager and able to share with others.” – Michelle Pino

I love these tips, what mom doesn't need a good pampering, I cant wait to try them for myself!

Trisha