Dasha & Dana in Macau

Saian Skincare - Your Lifestyle Brand

The inspiration for SAIAN Natural Clinical Skin Care​ comes from our customers. We are not just a skincare company, we are a lifestyle brand, dedicated to bringing you the best in skincare, anti-aging supplements, ergonomic equipment, supplies and education. 

We are your partner in creating your most successful beauty business! No minimum order, $2-$7 cost-per-treatment always free samples, and support from our friendly staff. Be your own boss, work at your pace, we support you!

Weighted Blanket Drive for Rancho De Los Ninos Orphanage's Special Needs Kids

We urgently still need 10 more weighted blankets for the orphanage' special needs kids! We have 2, but need 10 more. 

You and your friends can pitch in to buy one, to make a big difference in a child's life.

What is a weighted blanket and how does it help a child with special needs /anxiety?
According to research, the sense of touch is important to address in children who have tactile defensive tendencies. Even children who are oversensitive to touch, especially when it is unexpected, often seek out touch or contact. A weighted blanket gives the child the opportunity to seek a safe way to experience touch stimuli. Deep pressure can be very calming, particularly for children with special needs who have difficulty with tactile processing.

There are also children who have excess movements. Weighted blankets will sometimes help calm these movements whether they are Parkinson's-like tremors, restless legs or anxiety. For example, the use of weighted lap pads in the school for ADD children will sometimes be enough with to keep the child seated and focused when working. If you think a weighted lap pad is not enough weight to make a difference, here is a fact that may surprise you: your skin can feel touch as light as one-thousandth of an ounce, the equivalent of a mosquito’s weight.

These blankets are not cheap, but I know you all have it in your hearts to help. The government of Mexico doesn't support the orphanage system, so the children in the system have to rely on help from non-profit organizations such as Corazon de Vida to provide for their livelihood.

You don't need to do anything other than purchase the blanked already marked in the link and send it to THIS address at checkout:

Corazon de Vida Foundation
14252 CULVER DR STE A800
IRVINE, CA 92604-0317
United States

https://smile.amazon.com/SensaCalm-Therapeutic-Adult-Length-Weighted-Blanket/dp/B008DQT04K/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1487624574&sr=8-4&keywords=weighted%2Bblanket%2Badult&th=1

I love you all, thank you again for being generous and kind-hearted! Contact me with any questions.

Self Care - Acupuncture

How well do you take care of your body and mind? I, for one, make my own well-being my #1 priority. I have an intense work schedule, and I take my personal health commitments as I take my work-seriously! This means 5 sessions a week with the best personal trainer in town, and 2 sessions a week with my amazing acupuncturist! On days like today, I get to work at 2pm, but it's a loss I'm prepared for. I'll be working from home later tonight. 

When my mom and I started our company, we were working all day, every day, 7 days a week. We didn't have money or time to get massages, acupuncture, go to the gym, have a trainer, or eat organic food. It was go, go, go, all the time, without stopping. In 2007, I was finishing college, working at a spa as a receptionist in the evenings and on weekends, going to beauty school on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and dancing in a my mom's dance troupe on weekend nights for some cash. That's basically how we could afford groceries, because all the money was going into the business. 

I remember we used to sit and fill bottles with serums and cremes all evening, and stick labels on them, so that we could drive to San Diego at 5am, to teach a class at a beauty school at 8am, and hopefully sell something. Those were really good times, and, most importantly, I spent those crazy times with my mom... she never got the luxury to rest until she got cancer, and she wasn't used to lying down, that was new to her. She wanted to keep going. Now, I value every opportunity I get to spend time and money on ME. I know she looks down on me and oh happy to see me doing so well, and taking care of myself like I have been caring for her for the last 3 years we had together.

Supercharge Your Beauty Routine - Almonds 4 Ways for Your Skin Health!

Those who know me well, know I am absolutely obsessed with raw nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and berries! In fact, I always keep pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and a variety of nuts in the house, and pack them in my bag daily for easy work snacks. And don't get me started on airport food - it's just the worst! I'm on an airplane every weekend for work, so eating healthy can be challenging. This is why bringing my own snacks has become a habit, in my book. 

Almonds are one of the most easily accessible type of nuts - you can find raw almonds in any local grocery store, at gas stations, and convenience stores, but don't let that fool you - they are a super-food! Almonds contain Vitamins B2, E, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Manganese, and Copper. Most importantly, a ¼ cup serving contains 49% of your recommended daily allowance of biotin! What's Biotin? Biotin, is also known as B7, is vital for the proper functioning of the nervous system and musculature and in maintaining cellular processes like growth, metabolism and energy. It is frequently referred to as the "beauty vitamin" because of its restoring properties on the skin. When we lack Biotin, our skin is the first to show the signs of deficiency. According to the Dermal Institute, these are the symptoms of B7 deficiency:

• Red, scaly rash around the nose, mouth and eyes.
• Thinning hair, sometimes with shedding and loss of pigment (graying hair).
• Possible depression, fatigue, hallucinations.
• Tingling sensations in the arms and legs.
• Muscle cramps after exercise.
• Possible high cholesterol and heart problems.
• Cradle cap, a type of seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, head and eyebrows. In babies, crusty yellowish-whitish patches appear in these areas and may or may not be itchy.
• Increased risk for developing other health issues

Sounds like we want to keep healthy, and avoid any skin problems like this, right? I bet you didn't know this, but you can incorporate almonds into both your meals, and your skincare routine. I will show you 4 ways to do this, today! 

1. Incorporate Almonds Into Your Diet

Don't be confused by uneducated people telling you that consuming nuts will make you gain weight. Numerous studies have shown that incorporating unsaturated fats (such as nuts and avocado) actually helps stabilize weight. 

A 28-month study involving 8,865 adult men and women in Spain, found that participants who ate nuts at least two times per week were 31% less likely to gain weight than participants who never ate nuts. Among the participants who gained weight, those who never ate nuts gained an average of 424g more than those who ate nuts at least twice a week.

A serving of almonds has 162 calories, 14 grams of heart-healthy unsaturated fat, and 6 grams of protein. Remember, one serving of almonds is 23 almonds, which equals 1 ounce, ¼ cup or about 1 handful. Portion control is key. I also highly encourage you to stay away from processed nuts - I, personally, avoid any roasted, salted, flavored nuts at all costs. The best way to eat them is to sprout them. 

Sprouting or soaking nuts removes the outer shell, which contains phytic acid. Phytic acid is a naturally occurring botanical substance, it a strong chelator to the most essential minerals such as zinc, calcium, and iron. Whenever you consume nuts with phytic acid present (with the shell on, essentially), those nutrients will be removed, and not used by your body as they were intended to. When you soak and sprout the almonds, not only will you remove the outer shell, and the physic acid, but you will also increase the amount of active enzymes in the nuts - making it more easily digestible for those who experience stomach issues during digestion.

2. Use An Almond Scrub

Have you heard about microbeads? If not, I'd like to educate you on these little plastic culprits, and make sure you stay away from face and body scrubs which list them as an active ingredient. Microbeads are tiny round plastic beads that are found in some exfoliating products, and they are causing quite a stir in the environmental world. The plastic waste caused by these microbeads, which are not filtered out during sewage treatment, is damaging water ecosystems and killing marine life. 

A 2013 research at the University of Wisconsin-Superior showed that there were 1,500 to 1.7 million plastic particles per square mile in the Great Lakes! Not only are the beads damaging to fish, they are also bad for your face - microbeads can cause eye irritation, and promote rosacea and couperose. It’s no wonder that Illinois was the first state to ban the use of microbeads in June of 2014, and I sincerely hope all other states will quickly follow.

Instead of using these plastic beads, I suggest natural options like scrubs with ground up almonds, seeds and stone pits from apricots/peaches, crushed walnut husks, oats, coffee grinds, salt, and sugar. I especially recommend sugar for those dealing with eczema since it’s non irritating on broken skin, and sea salt for psoriasis sufferers, but not more than once a week. All other scrubs can be used 3 times a week, but not more - our skin needs adequate time to amass dry dead cells, and you definitely don’t want to over-exfoliate!

3. Use Almond Oil as A Body Moisturizer

Did you know that different vegetable oils rank differently against each other when it comes to how much they clog the pores? Oils rank from 0-5, a 0 being least comedogenic, and 5 as most comedogenic. ("Comedogenic" means tending to cause blackheads by blocking the pores of the skin.) Almond oil is an amazing 2 (moderately low) while Coconut oil is a high 4, rendering it a bad choice for skincare. Almond oil can be used as a hair moisturizer, a body moisturizer, and a wonderful massage oil.

4. Use Almond Milk as An Activator For Powder Masks

Who says you can't play with your food? I love the idea of incorporating almonds in every step of the beauty routine. Almond milk is gentle and soothing on the skin, which makes it a perfect activator for  powder enzyme masks. Simply mix the powder with a bit of warm almond milk, and apply to the face for 7-10 minutes. The result is a bright, supple completion! Using this mask helps to pull out oils, exfoliate, and reduce the appearance of sun damage, wrinkles, cellulite and even stretch marks. It's perfect for blemished skin, blackheads and even cystic acne, and excellent for soothing skin conditions such as rosacea, eczema, rashes, psoriasis, and acne.

Did you like these cool suggestions? I had a blast putting these ideas on paper for you, and I hope I inspired you to start something healthy today!

Toxic Relationships

Sometimes we subject ourselves to toxic relationships, and carry on in pain despite all the signs. A toxic relationship creates sadness and unnecessary drama, interferes with our everyday enjoyment of life, and ruins our relationships with others. Having been in this kind of a situation numerous times, I can truly say that I was the instigator, and the magnet for this one-way love, and trust me, if this were not a one-way love, it wouldn't be so painful.

Some people want you to succeed only as long as you never surpass them. The first step on the path to greatness is identifying those toxic individuals, and cutting off all communication. Respect yourself to decide that you deserve BETTER! It's never too late to walk away from the person who dares to hurt you...

I love you.

Beauty

Beauty isn't about fitting or standing out, being a certain size, or always having the perfect hair day. Beauty is defined by our kindness to others, by our ability to give a helping hand, to take a moment and listen to someone's story, to reach out and support other human beings in need. Beauty shines through our skin when we laugh, it radiates in our eyes when we look at our loved ones, and it is what makes us unforgettable. Take a moment to look into the mirror today, and tell yourself "I am beautiful and I love and respect myself!"

Goodbye 2015, Hello 2016!

This year has been one of the most challenging, as well as the most physically and mentally exhausting years of my life. 3 months have passed since my beautiful mom died in my arms, and I still relive that moment DAILY. It's hard to fall asleep, sometimes, so I dance until absolute exhaustion, and sleeping becomes an unavoidable necessity.

This year, my aesthetic and health articles were published in 6 magazines, and my product has been featured and mentioned in more than 20 magazine editorials. I have managed to put out 4 new skincare items: http://saian.net/product/clinical-strength-eye-serum/ , http://saian.net/product/vital-k-creme/ , http://saian.net/product/pure-hyaluronic-acid-spray/ , http://saian.net/product/collagen-ampoules/ , and 2 supplements: http://saian.net/product/snc-labs-hyaluronic-acid-complex-ha/ , http://saian.net/product/snc-labs-hsn-hair-skin-nails-complex/ , as well as formulate a brand new cellulite gel ready to debut in 2016: http://saian.net/product/bio-contour-slimming-cellulite-gel/ all pretty much from the hard hospital reception room chairs and benches... 2015 was the year SAIAN Natural Clinical Skin Care expanded into the EU, and we now have an amazing Academy in Sweden, where skin care professionals get the highest quality training and certification with our natural products.

I'm brave and fearless, but I have to admit it's hard for me to post all this. I usually don't like to share my business on Facebook - I only keep this page for my close friends, my salsa family and classmates. Growing up in Russia, we had been told by our mothers - don't gloat, because no one likes a show off - your friends will hate you for being successful, and resent you for your happiness. This is our collective Soviet philosophy... but it's not MY way of thinking or living. There is nothing that makes me happier than seeing my friends succeed, be healthy, get married, have children, travel, receive gifts and prosperity from the universe. This world is so infinitely abundant - we can ALL have what we desire, and all the good in the universe can be ours, and if we can somehow share it with each other, that is even better! Give love, give time, give touch, give care, give a shoulder to rest a friend's head on, and give 10 minutes to listen to someone's story.

As we go into 2016, I would like to remind you that the calendar is absolutely arbitrary, and tomorrow is just the same as yesterday. No one will hold you accountable for breaking resolutions or for flaking on promises, except your own conscience. No one is ever able to hold you accountable for anything you decide to do, because YOU are the only thinker in your mind, and you can change your thoughts to be POSITIVE. Be YOU, do your own thing, focus on your own health, and surround yourself with people who inspire you.

Anti-Aging Treatments for the Neck and Decollete

The face, neck and décolleté are exposed to the sun, wind and cold weather, and must be all cared for in the same way as the face during the professional treatment and at home. The delicate neck and décolleté area is often ignored when it comes to application of moisturizers and sunscreen, and is easily susceptible to dehydration and sun damage. The signs of aging in the neck area are a result of our muscles losing elasticity, so along with a proper skincare regime, we have to learn to firm and tone the muscles to hold the skin tightly. As we age, the neck and jowls may start to show horizontal wrinkles and folds and begin to droop because of the daily gravitational pull, and slowing down of collagen production. This, of course causes the face to look much older than it may look otherwise. Also, genetics play a big role in the way our skin looks in that area. While many women take very good care of the skin on their face, the neck and chest often reveal their true age. 

SIGNS OF AGING ON NECK AND DÉCOLLETÉ 

Because the skin on the neck and décolleté is thinner and less elastic than skin in other areas, it’s more susceptible to environmental damage, which is compounded by the fact that this area is much more likely to be neglected and unprotected. The most common types of skin problems that are seen on the neck and chest are hyperpigmentation (brown spots), wrinkles, crinkliness, horizontal “necklace lines”, redness, blotchiness, elastosis, and skin tags. More complicated issues such as cutis rhomboidalis nuchae (leathery deep wrinkling on the back of the neck), and poikiloderma of Civatte (usually affects the front and sides of the neck in mostly fair-skinned clients) both result from long-term sun damage, are benign, and require gentle care. The skin on the neck is definitely different than that on the face, and if not well taken care of, will create unattractive disharmony that many women are self-conscious about. 

SPECIALIZED SPA TREATMENTS 

There is a variety of different anti-aging neck and décolleté treatments that can be done in the spa to address these issues above. Most clients will require a series of treatments to see results, so it is advised to suggest a package deal of 3 – 6 treatments. Treatments range from the most basic enzyme exfoliation, to laser rejuvenation, and prices can be set according to your area. 

Exfoliation 

To achieve a lifting effect, estheticians should start the cleansing and exfoliation routine upwards from the décolleté and continue to the face. Enzymes are a wonderful way to safely exfoliate the skin - this has been my favorite method for years! An enzymatic exfoliation is a good natural way to clean out the pores, get rid of excess oils, slough off the dry and dead skin for a healthy cell turnover. Fruit enzymes, such as Bromelain (from pineapple) and Papain (from papaya) eat away at the oils and dry skin, to expose a refreshed, clear complexion. Enzyme masks are generally more gentle and more safe than acids, and don’t thin the skin like Retin-A. A good natural enzyme mask brightens the skin, activates cellular function, increases circulation, fades discoloration and leaves the skin feeling and looking fresh, smooth and healthy. Dry enzyme masks that are activated moments before application are more potent, and have a longer shelf-life than pre-activated gel-like masks. This type of facial exfoliant usually comes in the form of a mask based on marine clay, bentonite, or oats. This is my favorite type of enzyme mask, because it’s more gentle than an enzyme peel, which generally contain 10% to 30% AHA, and is not suited for everyone. An example of such a product would be a pumpkin peel. It is quite strong, so it’s not always recommended for the thin skin on the chest. Just like a chemical peel, please administer an enzyme peel with caution, making sure your client is a good candidate for the product. Some menopausal clients may experience redness and sensitivity on the décolleté, so it's better to hold off on the deep exfoliation. The average time needed for enzymes to do their job is 7-10 minutes, this treatment can be repeated once in 3 weeks, and can be added to any basic facial for as little as $20. 

Mask 

Pure collagen masks are the perfect hydrating and anti-aging treatment for the neck and chest. Décolleté products should not be too harsh, since the skin is thin in that area. It's also preferable to have fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products, to avoid any reaction. For the best results, choose German masks which are made from the highest quality medical-grade freeze-dried insoluble collagen fibers. These masks come dry, are soaked with an activator solution, and then molded to the face for 20 minutes. This specialized facial not only provides a tightening of the skin, but moisturizes, plumps, and reduces wrinkles for up to 3 weeks. Ideally, clients are encouraged to return for a facial once every 3-4 weeks, and the average cost is $150-$180 for an hour – hour and a half facial. 

Photorejuvenation 

An IPL laser (Intense pulsed light) usually gives good results for diminishing redness, fresh hyperpigmentation, and stimulating mild collagen growth. A series of 6 is recommended, and the cost is usually around $500 per treatment.. Like all laser treatments, it’s best to do this in the winter time, and the client will need maintenance treatments when brown spots reappear, usually once or twice a year. 

Fractional lasers are newer and also treat wrinkles and post-acne scars. The non-ablative fractional lasers, like the Fraxel, may cost as much as $5000 for 6 treatments, and have a two day down-time. This laser will take two to six months to give the best results. Ablative fractional lasers, like the Active FX, have a four to eight day down-time day downtime and give a better result for the crinkly areas on the neck. The cost of this procedure is usually $1,000-$2,000 per treatment, and a series of 4 is recommended over a six month time span. I like to stay safe, and don’t work over the thyroid or the breasts with mechanical equipment to avoid stimulation of the lymphatic system. 

HOME CARE 

At home, one should cleanse that whole area with cleanser daily, and exfoliate with an enzyme mask once in three days. This is the only way to achieve an even transition in color and texture from the bust to the face. Moisturizer, as well as sunscreen should always be applied, to prevent sun damage and wrinkles. I am a true believer in peptides, and the best combination that I have found to work well against wrinkles on the face and neck has been Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline®) with Matrixyl ™3000. Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline®) improves wrinkle depth, wrinkle volume and roughness. Matrixyl ™3000 minimizes crow’s feet and laugh lines, and prevents from further damage and wrinkle formation.Usually, peptides are best absorbable when used in a water-based serum, with the addition of low-molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid. 

This is the formulation behind SAIAN Active Renewal Serum. Ingredients are listed on the label starting with the most prevalent to the least prevalent. It is important to choose a product which is water-based, and has peptides in the beginning of the ingredient list – this way you can be assured of the amount of peptides in the formula. You may also consult the manufacturer, and ask what percentage of a given peptide is used. Usually, 10% of each peptide is sufficient to give great results, if there is a blend of 3 or 4 peptides in a formula. Avoid peptide combinations that are mixed with hydroquinone, parabens, and other toxins that can irritate the skin. 

EXERCISE 

One of the reasons for wrinkles on the neck and bust is gravitational pull, and often sleeping on high pillows and sleeping on the side can cause lines and wrinkles between the breasts and on the neck. Reversing the gravitational pull can be done by wearing a neck bandage or a compression garment for the face. This mechanical mode of lifting the neck, and resisting the gravitational pull works well when the client is doing housework or sleeping. The best way to prevent sagging, and to reduce preexisting damage is to do simple exercises that tone the muscles. Clients typically see results within the first month of consistent exercises. To target the “turkey neck”, the muscle which needs to be focused on is the platysma. The platysma muscle arises from the pectoral and deltoid muscles and rises over the clavicle, proceeding upward in a slanting manner along the sides of the neck. This group of muscles holds the neck and jaw line upward in youth but may separate during the normal aging process, leading to a drooping chin, sagging jawline and loose skin under the chin. 

The easiest exercise to tone this muscle is “kissing the ceiling”. Tilting the head up, extending the lips, as if kissing the ceiling. It’s advised to do 3 rounds of 20 reps each day for a toned neck. I hope my advice was helpful to better understand the variety of treatments for the neck and décolleté. All systems work well for different people, so the key is finding a balance. There is no need to incorporate all the items I list in the article to achieve amazing results, but I am confident that trying some of these treatments, products, machines, and exercises will greatly benefit your clients!

Getting to Know Me

DERMASCOPE Magazine is trying something new with their Contributors department for 2016! In an effort to further educate their readers about the authors, they asked to include a ‘get-to-know-you’ section with some fun questions for their writers. I hope you enjoy reading my replies, and find out some cool things about me you never knew.

Dasha Saian 

L.E., CEO Saian Natural Clinical Skincare 

Twitter handle: @DashaSaian

• Go-to karaoke song?
Definitely has to be “At Last” by Etta James! I used to be a voice major in high school and college, so jazz is definitely the closest musical genre to my heart.

• Favorite exercise move?
Squats are what it’s all about, ladies. I like to work out with weights 5 days a week, and dance 4 days a week for 4 hours. It’s amazing how exercise picks you up, and revives you!

• Favorite restaurant?
It may sound corny, but my favorite place to eat is at home. There’s nothing like a good home-made meal - I’ll take my own cooking over any restaurant any day.

• Number one thing on your bucket list?
I have traveled the world, and done some crazy things, so can’t think of anything more exciting than having a child. That is the one goal to get done before kicking the ol’ bucket!

• Favorite drink?
Coffee, of course! I am in Europe often, and the variety of coffee there is mind-blowing! I always feel like a kid in the candy store at cafes.

• Favorite travel destination?
I love Hong Kong and China. Whenever I visit Asia, I get to practice speaking Mandarin, shop ‘till I drop, and visit beautiful ancient places. Europe is also wonderful - I can’t resist the charm of old cobble stone streets.

• Favorite book?
“You Can Heal Your Life” by Louise Hay - this is one book I never get tired of re-reading. She is my mentor and inspiration.

• Favorite social media site?
I love Facebook, because it lets me connect with my friends from all around the world. I am always happy to see photos of children growing up, and catch up on the lives of my far-away connections.

• Makeup product you couldn’t live without? (For example, foundation, eyeliner, lipstick)
I can easily live without makeup, but toothpaste and moisturizer - that’s a different story!

• Favorite sport?
I’m not big on sports, but I sometimes watch basketball.

• Biggest phobia?
Shrimp! I’m allergic, so I frantically check ingredients before taking a bite of foreign foods.

• Perfect pizza?
Doesn’t really matter what’s on it, as long as it’s eaten with friends over some good laughs!

• Favorite genre of music?
Salsa music is my addiction - I have a vast collection of mambo I’m very proud of.

• Favorite thing to spend money on?
Absolutely, with no questions about it, undoubtedly - travel!

• Favorite television show?
Oh gosh, it may be strange to tell you this, but I don’t watch TV at all. No idea what is going on, or what shows are on. I have no time or interest in pop culture, celebrities or fashion. Just living my own life one day at a time.

• What do you do in your free time?
I spend a lot of time dancing and taking dance lessons, traveling, and spending time with my closest friends. I believe that time is the resource that you can never get back, so make the best of it every minute!

• What does your name mean?
When people ask me what the meaning of my last name is, and why they have never heard it before, I explain that it’s unique, and everyone with this last name is related. My last name (Saian) means Zion - a very spiritual word. My mother told me that she heard that our ancestors were the first to arrive on mountain Ararat out of Noah’s arc. Zion or Sai-on was later changed to Sai-an like all armenian last names. The meaning of the word is “kingdom of heaven” and “Jerusalem”.

• Favorite decade?
Every decade is amazing, but I remember the 1990s being super cool!

• Celebrity crush? 
Will Smith! Isn't he everyone's? Just perfect in every way.

• If you could choose any artist to see live, who would it be?
Maia Plesetskaya, the famous ballet dancer. Watching the videos of her performances is electrifying!

• Biggest guilty pleasure?
It’s silly to say, but nuts are my downfall! I can easily eat 2 lbs of walnuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds! I’m like a mad squirrel when it comes to nuts.

• Which “_______ for Dummies” book do you need to read?
Quickbooks for Dummies, please! I am sure the program is capable of a million functions, but in all the years that I have used it, I only know how to make receipts and enter customer data. Good thing my accountant is on top of things for me.

• Favorite childhood game?
Building tree houses was great - I was quite a tomboy in my days.

• Dogs or cats?
Both! I have a cat and a dog - they are both orange, fluffy, and loving.

• Cookies or cupcakes?
Fruit, please! I’ll take delicious natural goodness over baked goods any day.

• Would you rather explore the ocean or space?
The ocean is a bit scary for me, and so is space. I’d rather explore in books from the comfort of my own home.

Giving and Generosity

To give without feeling depleted is to give without expectations to receive anything in return. Often, we are generous with others, but when we are under-appreciated, our world crumbles. A true giving spirit is calm and collected. A generous person doesn't have room in his or her heart for grudges, because he or she understands that a good deed never goes unanswered.

Not everyone will treat you with respect you deserve, and that is okay. You don't need anyone's approval to keep doing good deeds, and you certainly don't have to stop respecting the persons who don't reciprocate. Learn your lesson and move on, and that good deed will return to you from a different source. Like in business, one thing goes on sale, and you "lose a little", but then you "make up" for it on the regular-price items. It's the balance of life. Start becoming aware of all the blessings around you, so you don't end up going through life constantly feeling like you are giving with no return. No one can take your power away, so why hand that power to others?

Do good, give, spend time, educate, care for others, give positive advice, love and cherish. If this is your intention, it will always be rewarded.

My Simple Advice to Keep you Going

I'm often asked what keeps me so positive, and always motivated in life, especially given the experiences I have been through in the past few years. Daily, I encounter people eager to learn self-discipline, good work-ethic and professionalism from my workshops and published articles. If I have learned anything from life, is that all of us experience it in different ways, and there is no one proven system that works for everyone. Our experiences shape our outlook on life, and guide our way through it. You can go through life complaining, or let gratitude guide you. I choose the latter, and it hasn't failed me yet.

There are a few words that I like to use to encourage power, growth and progress. Use these words often, to expand your worldly experience, and amplify the magnitude of your existence. Make a conscious effort to use these words daily, and you will FEEL expansion in your lungs whenever you say them out loud.





1. Gratitude
Feeling grateful for what you have at the current moment encourages more good to come in to your world. We often become desensitized, and forget that we have so much to be thankful for. It's very easy to fall into the trap set by up the media - daily, we are encouraged to buy, buy, buy unnecessary items we absolutely "need". We are told to hate our "overweight" and "hairy" bodies, change our "big" noses, increase the size of our "flat" chests, when all we really need to do is be grateful for our health, eyesight, hearing, movement, clear thinking, and all the glorious things our bodies are doing for us 24/7!

You may not be feeling your 100% best, but realizing that you have good experiences, an education, health, a roof over your head, food, clean water, family/friends, electricity, a cozy bed, and whatever else you see around you brings a sense of being GROUNDED, and that is something many of us feel we lack, at times.

2. Honor
I love this word and use it often. When you look at your worldly duties from a perspective of privilege and honor, life will become grand, and your self-esteem will reflect it. Don't look at teaching someone as a chore, be honored that someone has trusted you enough to rely on your knowledge. Don't be upset by people cutting you off in traffic or in supermarket lines - take it as your noble doing to let them go through. Being a business owner, or a manager, is a great honor, and carries the responsibility to treat others with respect and understanding. Meeting someone is an "honor", and I like to let them know that by using this exact word.

When my mother got sick, people didn't understand how I completely abandoned my own life to become her sole caregiver, but it was really my HONOR. I'm honored to bring good to people, because it is a noble purpose.

3. Purpose
This is a very important concept, and once you truly "get it", life becomes fulfilling and easy. Your life doesn't have to be a struggle to make ends meet, when you feel a strong urge to engage in a certain type of work or business, give it a go! You will always be able to make a living doing what you feel you were born to do, because your drive will fuel your progress. Something you do exceptionally well doesn't have to stay a hobby- you are always able to create a life around your passion. A person with a sense of purpose has goals, values, and is never bored - there is always something to do! Some people discover their purpose early in life, and some may come to it later, but age is never a factor here, as long as you are perpetually grateful, the years will pass without regrets.

My mother's purpose was her work in skincare, and her beloved business. She started a skincare brand with a laughable $3,000, and was able to turn it into a thriving international corporation. In 2013, mom was diagnosed with Grade 4 glioblastoma (malignant brain tumor) the size of a grapefruit. She bounced back relatively well after the first surgery, although it left her with limited movement and no feeling on the right side of the body. She was a fighter, life was FOR her. All she wanted to do was work out to get her sensation back in her right side, to get back into the office with me and the staff. I invited a physical therapist home daily, and purchased all the necessary equipment for her to use in her spare time - all day she was using Therabands, the recumbent bike, and the treadmill. That woman had a plan, she was needed at work, where she belonged.

A year and a half passed, and she became weak again. She started jumbling up words, and the MRI confirmed our fears - our cancer came back. She had another surgery, and again started to exercise. She wanted to prove everyone wrong and go to work. When the third tumor appeared six months later, it was no longer operable... I knew she would never be able to go back to reading, even walking... the doctors gave us 3 months. She lasted less than 3 weeks from that point, but when even when hospice came in to help me care for her in the last days, I never ONCE have her the idea that she was close to death. Of course, at this point she couldn't talk, eat or move,but she could hear - I know it. I sat next to her 24/7, and told her that she will be ok, and she will finally go to the office, and get work done. I told her we were getting new facial machine prototype samples, and that I was working on new serums. She was holding on to life, even without food or water for the last 5 days, because she had purpose.

If a dying person would hold on to life by a thread, because she has a sense of purpose, why can't you? It's not too late to grab on to life and try your best to live it to the fullest.

I promise, it will all make sense to you once you give it a go. I love you.

DERMASCOPE Magazine's 40th Anniversary Issue

DERMASCOPE Magazine interviewed Dasha Saian for their 40th Anniversary issue, asking to share some business advice, as an industry expert. Here is the full version of that interview: 

Do you have any advice for newbies? What advice do you wish you had been given when you began in the industry? 

What I wish I had known is that building a brand isn't only about the quality of the product, but about the knowledge of the educators, and the language of the marketers. Keeping it simple and explaining it well is the key to success!

Tell us about your history with DERMASCOPE. Any great stories or fun facts readers would find interesting?

My first article, co-written with my mother, came out in the May 2010 issue of DERMASCOPE, and my first solo article came out in the July 2010 issue of DERMASCOPE Magazine - exactly 5 years ago! Ever since then, I have been blessed to be a part of this wonderful publication! I am so overjoyed and proud to have been able to start contributing at such a young age, and can assure you that I will never run out of content, topics, fresh information, and inspiring stories in the coming years! My work is my passion and pride, and I am committed and dedicated to share all my knowledge and experience with DERMASCOPE readers!

What product innovation do you feel paved the way for today’s must-haves in our industry?

Natural products without chemicals and parabens are among the most popular and revered in the industry today, and rightfully so! Health and beauty go hand in hand!

What do you feel is the one thing that has made the biggest change in the industry?

More and more professionals are now taking the time to research ingredients, to make sure they are choosing the right products for their clients. Gone are the days of relying on ads and promises - estheticians want results, and invest their time in finding the best products out there!

What is the one advancement that is needed the most going forward?

Education is the most important element which must be present to be able to advance! Taking workshop classes, watching tutorials, webinars, listening to podcasts, reading trade magazines such as DERMASCOPE, that's what it's all about! If you feel you know everything, you close yourself off from learning more.

For Mom

My mother was my best friend, my role model, my teacher, my everything. She taught me how love and respect myself and others, to constantly educate myself, to keep a positive mindset, and to always work with integrity and honesty. Most importantly, my mother taught me that there is nothing more important than friends family, and taking care of each other in difficult times is an honor, and a divine privilege.

In Honor of Mom

At 5:05pm on September 29th, I lost my beloved mother, my best friend, my world, my everything. She was 59 years old. My mother died in my arms after a two and a half year battle with the most aggressive type of brain tumor - grade IV glioblastoma. I have been through surgeries, radiation, chemo, endless poking with needles for blood draws and injections, countless trips to the hospital, physical therapy, speech therapy, wheelchairs, and 5am wake-up times. 

I would be lying if I said I have had a good night's rest in the past years... But the last 48 hours have been surreal. It still feels like a dream - I was by my mother's side for 2 days straight, without getting up from the bed. I pushed her hospital bed close to the bed I slept in, and enveloped her in my love and warm embrace. Last night, my mother's best friends Claudio and Marc were there with me, as I sang songs to her, while we all said our goodbyes. She passed 4 times her last night, but came back into her body, and resumed breathing. 

Mom couldn't move, or talk, and she didn't have any food or water for 5 days, but was still going strong without life support or any fluids. The hospice nurses confirmed my disbelief - this was unseen strength for any patient they have ever worked with! She was holding on for me.

The last moments I had with my mom were unforgettable. I heard her last breath as I held her tight and told her how much I loved her. I told her I'm sorry I couldn't save her, but I did all that I could.

We had a beautiful celebration of life for my mother at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills. I had her music playing in the church, everyone came dressed in all white, and the preacher sang a sermon in Russian for an hour. She was at ease, and is no longer suffering. She was beautiful...

Last night, Maria and I were going through Margarita's things, and packing clothes for donations. This paper with mom's affirmations was with some old CDs and address books from ten years ago, or so. I threw it in the garbage, but then quickly retrieved it because it looked like a love note. Incredible. Simply incredible to find this.

I love you, mom.

New Trends in Health for 2016

Being an esthetician, and a certified nutrition and wellness consultant for almost a decade, I have an immense passion for health and beauty, and an insatiable hunger for knowledge. I have always been a dedicated proponent of the organic and holistic lifestyle, so when tragedy struck in my family, I had no choice but to rise up to the occasion and educate myself as best as I could. For the past three years, I have been doing research to support my mother through her fight with the most aggressive brain tumor – grade IV Glioblastoma. These few years have taught me to appreciate the fragility of human health, and to never compromise the well-being of my body in search of vanity. I have some valuable information to share with you, and I hope my advice is helpful to you on your path to optimum wellness. My mentor, Louise L. Hay believes that all systems work well for different people, so the key is finding a balance. There is no need to frantically purchase all the items I list in the article, but incorporating some of these supplements, foods, and exercises into your daily routine will greatly benefit you!

A number of years ago, my mother was giving keynote lectures on candidiasis, and the importance of alkalizing the body. Now, as 2016 approaches, more and more people are becoming aware of this diet plan, and are healing themselves of acne, candida, gut issues, headaches, weight issues, fatigue, and many other health problems. The goal to this nutritional approach is alkalizing the body by properly balanced pH food combinations. This way of eating stresses the repopulation of the gut with friendly bacteria, especially after antibiotics, by using fermented vegetables and kefir, and it allows you to fully enjoy food without feeling bloated, fatigued, or spaced out. The key is eliminating all sugar, alcohol, caffeine, dairy, and bread from the diet, and following the 80/20 principle. The 80/20 principle states that 80% of the food on your plate must be alkaline (green leafy vegetables, cruciferous vegetables, sea kelp) and 20% of the food or less can be acidic (meat, grains, etc). Another important element is only eating until the stomach is 80% full, leaving 20% empty for comfortable digestion. In other words, stop before you feel full.

A great new idea is to try new fermented foods containing probiotics. Foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, miso, microalgae, and kefir contain friendly bacteria that will populate your gut, and create a healthy intestinal flora. 

For a daily supplement, I recommend Jarrow’s formula probiotics – shelf stable capsules with 5 billion viable cells per capsule. The formula contains all the beneficial bacteria your gut needs:

Lactobacillus rhamnosus R0011, Pediococcus acidilactici R1001, Bifidobacterium longum BB536, Bifidobacterium breve R0070, Lactobacillus helveticus (L. acidophilus) R0052, Lactobacillus casei R0215, Lactobacillus plantarum R1012, Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis R1058

I also recommend taking certain key vitamins daily. Unlike most other mammals, we do not have the ability to make vitamin C, which means it needs to be added to your diet. In addition to being a powerful anti-oxidant, vitamin C plays a key role in collagen, serotonin, and carnitine production, vasodilation, and lowering blood pressure. 1,000 mg once daily is sufficient.

Also, consider taking 5,000 IU of vitamin D-3 daily. Getting enough sunshine throughout the day, and monitoring your blood D-3 levels is always a great idea. Research shows that vitamin D-3 plays a very important role in preventing disease and maintaining optimal health. We have about 30,000 genes in our bodies, and vitamin D-3 affects nearly 3,000 of them. Your skin creates same D-3 in response to sunlight as the D-3 you get from an oral supplement, and it’s much safer than tanning! 

More than 90% of the Nation is deficient in vitamin K. This vitamin is abundant in Japanese fermented natto, but can be purchased as a supplement over the counter. 100 mcg per day of vitamin K-2 is enough to help make your bones stronger, increase vascular health, and support the immune system!

Make sure you’re taking Omega 3 oils daily – I recommend 2 soft gels a day, each with 180 EPA / 120 DHA. While doing my cancer research for mom, I came across Johanna Budwig - based on her work on fatty acids she developed a diet that she believed was useful in the treatment of cancer. She was a German biochemist, pharmacist and held doctorate degrees in physics and chemistry. Budwig was nominated for the Nobel Prize 6 times, and her genius recipe is still reviving patients, and helping them live longer. You can look up the “Budwig Diet” for additional info and recipe.

Mushrooms also play a big part in reducing inflammation that causes stress, fatigue, brain fog, weight gain, acne, and many other issues. My favorite blend is Aloha Medicinals Immune Assist Critical Care Formula – certified organic full spectrum mycoproducts. Each 6 capsule dose provides 1500 mg of a complex profile of beta-glucans, nucleosides and other bio-active compounds extracted from six different well known medicinal mushroom species.

I also take bio-curcumin (derived from turmeric) for brain health, and prevention of brain tumors. I believe in turmeric with all my heart, and think it is a truly amazing substance! 

Organic and natural food is extremely important, and plays a tremendous part in our body's functions, pH balance, weight, hormone levels, digestion, and mood. Eating right, and taking the right supplements is a step in the right direction, but a systematic lifestyle of healthy nutrition and exercise is the key to longevity and vitality! There is no one exercise plan that is perfect for everyone, but I believe in 3 key elements of physical activity which strengthen, lengthen, tone, and condition the body, and when practiced often, give the best overall results! 

1. Aerobic exercise, such as brisk walks, jogging, dancing, trampoline, bicycle, swimming, and anything else that gets you breathing and oxygenating the body, as well as your blood circulating and moving stagnation. Obesity is a 21st century epidemic in America, and with lack of aerobic exercise, the body can amass a fat padding not only on the outside, but even around the internal organs! All forms of aerobic exercise help to massage the colon, and move waste matter out of the body, therefore detoxifying and cleansing. While we are healthy and strong, we need to adapt to an exercise routine that will build up our endurance, so in the unpredicted case of general anesthesia (GA), the risks of anything going wrong will be minimal. Aerobic exercise is wonderful conditioning for the body - once you get used to this sort of fast paced physical activity, you will never walk up a flight of stairs huffing and puffing ever again! Personally, I never take the elevator - stairs are a great way to get some exercise in during your workday or while running daily errands!

2. Weight training! I hear many opinions on this topic, especially women who are afraid of weight training, thinking that they will look bulky and masculine. Don't fear this form of exercise, because it's a guaranteed method for strengthening muscles, toning flabby areas, and conditioning the body. You don't have to use heavy weights, that is not the most important factor. It's more important to keep correct form, and do these exercises slowly. Never do jerky movements, never strain yourself, and remember to keep your knees softly bent when working with a barbell or free weights. When your muscles are firm, they will hold your internal organs in place, keep your back straight, and burn more calories than fat, even while at rest. 

3. Stretching is incredibly important! I know it may seem useless for most of us to be able to bend over and touch our toes, but believe me, it is essential! Our spine is like a doric column supporting the roof of the Parthenon, except our column (spine) has our spinal cord running through it. Have you been to the chiropractor for an adjustment? He will roll you from side to side, stretch you out, and alleviate any pinching of the nerves that may have occurred in your spine. With regular stretching, you help yourself by allowing the spinal fluid flow freely, reducing the pinched nerves, and lengthening the muscles. Stretching also reduces the buildup of lactic acid in the body, and helps move stagnation. When we get older, with no stretching or weight training, the back can start to collapse forward, forming a hunch which can cause the lungs to collapse and take in a reduced amount of oxygen, and the ribcage to press down on the stomach, therefore releasing acid, and causing GERD. A great form of stretching is hatha yoga - it is both enjoyable and beneficial to the body!

Hopefully this advice has been helpful to you, and will get you motivated to incorporate these suggestions into your daily routine! I am wishing you health and longevity!

Why People Tell Me I'm The Strongest Person They Know

Hi, my name is Dasha, and many people tell me I am the strongest person they know.

It all started on April 28th, 2013 when my mother had a seizure, and was unexpectedly diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor the size of an orange.  She was given 5 weeks to live, but I managed to pull myself together and prolong her life by two and a half years. Today, I sit in her bedroom, look at her face as she sleeps, and cry. She may even know it at this point, but the doctors say we have less than 3 months left together before she leaves me for good.

This is my story:

I have lived an average life, some would say. I came to the United States as a 12 year-old kid, after spending 5 years being raised by my father's mom, in my mom's absence. Mom was busy making money in Los Angeles, and sending every penny to me in Moscow. I was her pride and joy, and even when times were tough, I was taking English lessons, tutoring, vocal coaching and piano lessons. Our family motto was always "there's always something to do".

The first few years in America were strange, because I felt so disconnected from my "new" mom. We lived in a $300 single apartment on Fairfax, just below Wilshire. Mom worked all day, and I learned how to cook all on my own. Soon our grandma joined us, and we had to vacate the single apartment, because the landlord couldn't have 3 people in such a tiny space. With all the money we had saved up, we were fortunate enough to secure a down payment of $17k on a mortgage on a condo in the Hollywood Hills. At that time, in 1999, that beautiful place was $169k, prices that today are laughable. That condo is the most beautiful, and beloved space I have ever lived in, and it was our home for 12 years.

Did I mention that I lived an average life? It was a very busy life, and some may say I grew up too quickly. I started working at the early age of 14, and at one point, I was getting my bachelor's of science in Marketing, working as a receptionist at a spa, going to beauty school for my esthetician diploma, helping my mom launch the skincare brand, and dancing in a gypsy dance troupe at night on the weekends. In fact, we took such a long time to get the business off the ground, I had to sleep in a room full of cardboard boxes filled with cosmetic jars, lids, sprayers, and bottles for the first 3 years. Those first 3 years were the toughest - we literally filled bottles and jars all night, and in the mornings,  woke up at 5am, packed the car, and drive to a beauty school to do a demo. We often drove to San Diego, Lancaster, Las Vegas, San Francisco, and anywhere else they would allow us to do a demo. Some days we made $500, and some days $80, and that covered our gas and lunch... but we were always together, and every day was special and fun.  That' how we got our start, and met our very first clients. 

The same clients are still with us today, almost 9 years later.

As I am typing this, tears roll down my eyes, because things will never go back to the way they used to be. I may never hear my mom speak to me again, and that is painful. My mom had the most beautiful voice in the world. She was a professional singer, and she has put out some incredible albums. Now music helps me... you know how? The first day we transferred her into the hospital bed, she refused to eat. She shut her teeth, and wouldn't allow me to feed her. After many failed attempts, I sat down on a chair next to her and, shaking in tears, started to sing. I sang all the Russian songs I knew, one after another, crying, but with a smile on my face...and she opened her mouth, and ate! Her head was rolling to the side, so I had to prop it up with my left hand while I spoon fed her with the right. That's how we still eat. She falls asleep sometimes while I feed her, and that scares me, so I have to quickly wake her or literally force her to spit the food out, so she doesn't choke... and it takes me a good hour to feed her like this, but it's the only way. While she eats, I tell her about my day at work, and even though it hurts, I tell her she needs to get well soon so she can come back to the office. I know it won't happen, and I'm sure she knows it as well, but she loves to be at work so much,  that I can see that thought literally breathing the life-force into her. It is a sense of purpose that makes life worth while, worth wanting to stay alive for. 

I sit like this with her, while she moans in confusion, unable to move or speak, and talk to her, sing to her, and feed her. I only stopped singing once - when I started a song we usually sang in a duet, and she realized she couldn't sing along. A tear ran down her cheek, and I understood this was painful for her, too.

Grandma is 85 now. She is frail, and using a walker after her recent fall and hip surgery. She can't be in the same room with mom, because the sight of mom being so sick is too much for her to handle. It's ok, I guess... different people cope in different ways. 

As for me, I don't have any other family - it's just me, mom, and grandma. I have promised myself to keep strong, and never give up, because for the past two and a half years I have been responsible for the lives of 3 people. In my hands lay the duties of running a corporation and providing enough business to keep my employees fed, taking care of my sick mom and elderly grandma, staying grounded, positive and healthy, looking youthful and radiant as the brand ambassador of a skincare company, and making sure I have no regrets.

Many people tell me I am the strongest person they know. Perhaps, and I'm sure life has a beautiful plan for me.

Choosing Products For Your Skin Type

Each client’s skin has unique needs, so selecting the right products is very important. There are many types of cleansers available on the market, and there is no one perfect product for all. Typically, older clients have dry skin and prefer milky cleansers because they don’t strip the skin of natural oils, and moisturize as they clean. Younger clients may prefer a foamy cleanser, which makes the face feel “squeaky clean” and tight. Different cleansers are made with ingredients added specifically to treat certain skin types. For example, aloe and chamomile are added to soothe sensitive skin, salicylic and AHA to treat oily, and acne-prone skin. 

Applying serum is essential if you want to target wrinkles, and deliver active ingredients deep into the skin. Serums have small water-based molecules that penetrate the skin, and go to work reducing fine lines, and crow's feet. For everyone over 30, select a serum with peptides if you are worried about wrinkles, a serum with alpha arbutin if you are trying to get rid of hyper pigmentation, and a serum with collagen boosting Trilogen, if you want to plump and firm inelastic skin.

Applying moisturizer is essential after serum application. This step ensures that the serum doesn't evaporate, and provides a double layer of anti-aging peptides. Choose a light moisturizer to allow the skin to breathe, such as a hyaluronic peptide crème, or an antioxidant leave-on mask at night.

I am Worth Loving

You don't have to EARN love, just like you don't have to earn the right to breathe. You are lovable because you exist. You are worth loving, and as you love others, they will mirror this feeling onto you. ❤️ P.S. I love you.

Adding Pumpkin to Your Skin Care Routine

We may often take the humble pumpkin for granted, but did you know that autumn's generous gift is a real miracle for our skin? It is an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins and essential elements the skin needs. Pumpkin is not just for carving and eating - it makes for a wonderful facial or body mask! All parts of the pumpkin, including seeds, can be used in creating amazing skin care products. Pumpkin Masks and Peels are always a popular choice for many estheticians, because of their amazing exfoliating properties and creamy pleasant texture. It’s no wonder that November’s holiday treatments always include this deliciously fragrant gourd. Enzymes and Alpha-Hydroxy Acids in pumpkin exfoliate dead skin cells while promoting skin repair and cell-turnover. A pumpkin mask or peel cleanses, conditions and moisturizes while helping to firm the skin.

From a nutritional standpoint, just an ounce of pumpkin seeds contain 4.2 mg of iron, which helps fight lead-poisoning, and only a half a cup of canned pumpkin is rich in potassium, vitamins С, В1, В2, В5, Е, and has 953mg of Vitamin A! That vitamin A comes in the form of immune-boosting beta carotene. The name beta-carotene is derived from the Latin name for carrot, and it gives yellow and orange fruits and vegetables such as pumpkin their rich hues. Like all other carotenoids, beta-carotene in pumpkin is an antioxidant which protects the body from damaging molecules called free radicals.

Dermatologists use beta-carotene for its ability to increase cell turn-over and regeneration in the outer layers of the skin, making it effective for diseases and skin conditions related to epithelium damage. Research suggests that taking high doses of beta-carotene internally may decrease sun-sensitivity. People with erythropoietic protoporphyria, a rare genetic condition that causes painful sun sensitivity as well as liver problems, are often treated with beta-carotene to reduce sun sensitivity. A combination of antioxidants may help protect the skin against the sun's ultra-violet radiation. Long-term supplementation with beta-carotene may reduce UV-induced skin redness, and appears to slightly reduce the risk of sunburn in individuals who are sensitive to sun exposure.

As you see, pumpkin is an excellent choice for all skin types! It nourishes the skin, provides a non-abrasive exfoliation, and makes skin baby-smooth! So why not add a pumpkin mask to your treatment menu today? Your clients will love you for it!