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"Propolis is an ideal treatment for people who reside in dry regions," says Jeff Wescott of Salon Bellagio. "Its soothing qualities help to alleviate the dryness people experience not just from arid climates, but from the additional stress caused by forced-hair heating and cooling."
In the red rock desert of Sedona, Arizona, guests at Mii amo, a destination spa at Enchantment Resort, often overdose on the sun. A popular way to recover is the Natural Elements Facial, a deeply hydrating treatment that combines the most technologically advanced equipment with the healing powers of propolis.
To start, the skin is cleansed and exfoliated, then moistened with a protein mist. Epicuren's Alpha Lipoic Omega serum is applied while the skin is still damp. The serum, a potent blend of Brazilian rainforest propolis as well as vitamins, trace minerals, amino acids, and botanicals, tones and tightens. The face and neck are massaged with Epicuren's Propolis Serum, and a silver ion cloth mask is placed over the face to allow the serum to penetrate deeply. Following a fifteen-minute hand and arm massage, the mask is removed, and the facial is concluded with the application of moisturizer, sunscreen, and lip balm.
"With its deeply hydrating properties, the Natural Elements Facial suits Mii amo's dry desert climate well," says Spa Director Kirsten Combs. "The facial is an ideal treatment for sun-stressed skin, and is especially recommended for clients suffering from rosacea."
The bumblebee and other native wild species of bee are more important than ever now that the population of the European species of honeybee, Apis mellifera, which is widely used in American agribusiness to pollinate crops, is in decline. According to the Department of Agriculture, there are currently 2.4 million honeybee colonies in existence, down from 5.5 million in 1945. Scientists blame mite infestations as well as a mysterious epidemic called Colony Collapse Disorder. Fortunately, native bees (of which there are thousands of species) also pollinate crops and perhaps with greater efficiency than honeybees. Bee-themed spa treatments simultaneously pamper our bodies and honor these valuable golden creatures. How sweet!
Make it at home
*Please note that both recipes are contraindicated, for individuals with allergies to bee products.
Facial Mask
Recipe courtesy of Kirsten Combs, Spa Director at Mii amo Enchantment Resort & SpaThanks to the skin-softening properties of the banana and yogurt, combined with the anti-inflammatory power of propolis, this facial treat will leave your face looking smooth and even-toned.
Ingredients
1 banana, mashed
1 tbs. yogurt
3 tbs. honey or 1 tbs. Epicuren Propolis Serum Moisturizer
small amount of coconut milk or soy milk for consistency, under 1 tsp.
Preparation
Mix ingredients together to make a paste and apply immediately to face, neck, and collet. Leave on 5-10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and moisturize.
The Flower & the Bee Propolis Milk Bath
Recipe courtesy of Angie Brown, Spa Director at The Lodge & Spa at CordilleraIf the colder weather leaves your skin dry and irritated, try this skin-softening treat.
Ingredients
1/2 cup dried chamomile or 5 chamomile tea bags
4 cups powdered milk
1 oz. honey
2 oz. Epicuren Propolis lotion
Preparation
Start by running a hot, steamy bath. Place the loose chamomile or chamomile tea bags in the tub, and pour the powdered milk into the running bath water. Add honey and Epicuren Propolis lotion for a wonderful aroma, and their moisturizing properties. Allow all the ingredients to churn under running water before stepping into the tub. Breathe deep, relax, and soak for at least 20 minutes. You'll emerge from this luxurious bath with smooth and silky skin.
