Tres Belle Buzz

Want $3,000 from Google, Zagat & Brokelyn?

2012-02-01T11:49:00.002-05:00

Thank G-D { <----- See! I'm Jewish } I was wearing "light protection" when I got the phone call from Google. They told me of a contest they were doing with Zagat and Brokelyn and asked, would I like to be the prize? Well, not exactly me but my spa, Tres Belle. If I was the prize, here are 5 things you'd have to look forward to:

1. Roseanne reruns on Netflix
2. a shit ton of sauteed kale
3. petting every dog you encounter on the street as you go, to and fro
4. excessive amounts of jumping up and down and clapping { I do this quite often I'm afraid }
5. Shushzing cat hair off the couch, the bed, the cats...

K, so, here's how to win one of 3 HUBUNGOUS prizes to Tres Belle Spa:
http://www.brokelyn.com/rate-your-favorite-local-biz-to-win-a-spa-package-from-google/

I hope YOU win.

Peas&Love,
Allison

Your scalp is skin! or Why you need a one-seeded drupe in your life.

2012-01-29T12:20:00.001-05:00

I was Donnie and Marie obsessed as a girl growing up in CT. I can't say I actually remember the film "Goin' Coconuts" but, the title has popped into my mind at times, for no reason. Brushing my teeth, Goin' Coconuts! Off to the supermarket, Goin' Coconuts! Yearly pap-smear, Goin' Coconuts!

I use coconut on a weekly basis for at home skincare and wellness and thought I would share with you the benefits of this dang sexy one-seeded drupe. Yeah, that's right.

Winter weather can wreak havoc on the skin and um, your scalp is skin! Sometimes we forget, our scalps need stimulation and hydration just the same as the skin on your face and bod. To use Coconut Oil on your scalp is to nourish it, stimulate hair growth, to prevent breakage, and heal insect bites and even scalp break-outs. Coconut oil is comprised of essential fatty acids such as capric, caprylic, and linoleic. In other words: all the good stuff.

Many coconut oil offerings out there have been blended with other ingredients, making them not so "pure". I like Virgin Coconut Oil from www.AgbangaKarite.com It is pure and lasts a long time.

Here's how I use it in my hair:

Heat 1 teaspoon CO
After checking to make sure it's not too hot grab a cotton swab
Dip the cotton swab in the warm oil and seperate hair to expose scalp
GENTLY dab or run oil soaked cotton swab along scalp line
Continue this process until most of the scalp has been gently treated
GENTLY massage scalp, helping warm CO to penetrate { please remember to massage GENTLY, you're not rubbing a sore muscle. Being too rough on your scalp may cause future irritation.}

Here's the glamorous part:
Use a shower cap or a plastic bag and cover your head, then wrap a sweater or towel over it to create a little head cocoon. Leave on for approximately 20 minutes. GENTLY wash your hair [ with a shampoo free of sulfates, a major cause of scalp problems ] condition, style as usual.

Try this once a week, and stop washing your hair so much!
Peas and Love,
Allison

There are probably bugs in that, not to mention dry cleaning fluid.

2012-01-24T12:54:00.000-05:00

As warned by Senator Edward Kennedy at the 1997 Senate Hearings on the FDA Reform Bill, "The cosmetics industry has borrowed a page from the playbook of the tobacco industry by putting profits ahead of public health."

This warning remains current.

There is weird sh*t not only only in your cosmetics, and by cosmetics I don't just mean lipstick and stuff, I mean lotions, shampoos, and deodorants too. Parabens are chemical preservatives found in everyday items and their safety is one of the most debated topics in the beauty and wellness industry. Parabens are often found in small percentages in products but, they are products we use EVERYDAY. On average we use around 12 products containing parabens each and everyday. My interest and concern began after reading an article about Johnson and Johnson's "No More Tears" baby shampoo. Here's an exerpt:

"The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics must be congratulated for securing a 11/15/11 agreement with Johnson & Johnson "for reducing or gradually phasing out trace amounts of potentially cancer-causing chemicals" from Baby Shampoo, "one of its signature products." However, this agreement is limited and restricted to the U.S. market.There are three carcinogenic ingredients in Johnson & Johnson's Baby Shampoo, dioxane, formaldehyde and nitrosamine. Dioxane is a well-recognized carcinogenic contaminant in alcohol ethoxylates, a group of four ingrediens -- laureths, oleths, polyethylene glycol and polysorbates. The second ingredient, quaternium, is a precursor of two carcinogens, formaldehyde and nitrosamine. Johnson & Johnson has committed to "reducing or gradual phasing out" dioxane and formaldehyde in their U.S., but not in their international, products. A third carcinogen, not recognized by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, is nitrosamine, also of quaterniums, besides other precursors." -Samuel S. Epstein, Cancer prevention expert, Prof. emeritus at U. of IL School of Public Health, Chicago IL

As warned by Senator Edward Kennedy at the 1997 Senate Hearings on the FDA Reform Bill, "The cosmetics industry has borrowed a page from the playbook of the tobacco industry by putting profits ahead of public health." This warning remains current.

Look HERE to see a list of "Gross Me Out The Door" ingredients on Discovery.com.

There are probably bugs in that, not to mention dry cleaning fluid.

2012-01-24T12:02:00.000-05:00

Happy National Popcorn Day,Vegan Style!

2012-01-19T10:32:00.000-05:00

Happy National Popcorn Day!

Now, here's a day that I can get down with. I LOVE popcorn. I'm not talking about that microwave in a bag stuff, I'm talking organic pop-it on the stove top REAL popcorn. If you've fallen prey to the "bag", take 2 minutes and make it from scratch, it's also more economical. I actually USE popcorn, that's right. I'm a total user. I use it as a delivery system for all sorts of healthy spices, esp. when I'm under the weather. Here's my simple vegan recipe for super healthy "cheesy" p-corn bursting with flavor:

U need:
1/2 cup organic popcorn kernels
a few tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons Earth Balance [ U may leave it out but, WHY?! ]
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon or more of organic cayenne pepper
sea salt to taste

U do:
Coat the bottom of a tall pot with vegetable oil as, it's a good high heat oil. I do NOT use olive oil as, it burns and when you use EVOO for intense heat, it may release toxins, no bueno.

Ok, pan coated, put 2 kernels of popcorn in the pot, put stove on medium heat and cover.

Once the 2 kernels have popped, add the rest and cover. Move the pan back & forth NON-STOP as the kernels begin to burst open in the pan. Keep moving that pan! I mean it!

When the popping stops, remove from heat immediately and dump the hot popcorn into a bowl.

Add Earth Balance to the hot pan and once it melts, pour it over the pcorn, then add in the remainder of ingredients and eat, eat, eat.

Here are some reasons that Cayenne kicks major tush:

It can kill cancer cells in the prostate, lungs, and pancreas, immediately stop a heart attack within 30 seconds, cleans arteries, and rebuilds stomach tissue.

Here are some reasons why Nutritional Yeasts totally rules:

It tastes amazing, like cheese. It is rich in B12, folic acid and amino acids, helps regulate blood sugar, and it might actually help relieve stress!

Get Poppin'!

XO, Allison

Inspiration & Twiggy

2011-12-09T12:50:00.098-05:00

I flip flopped.

It was not easy for me to transition to a mostly vegan lifestyle. I was able to disconnect from what I was eating, as most of us do. Although being severely allergic to dairy foods, they comforted me. I learned from my friend, Alex Jamieson of DeliciousVitality that cheese contains casomorphines which she says "act like opium, to calm us down". I know a lot of non-veg folks who get a bit defensive when they find out you "don't eat meat". I think it's because they think maybe you are judging them because they do eat meat. Most of us, some of us, are not judging. For me, it's been a personal journey that I have been working on for years. I flip flopped. I celebrate, now that I have found the right "fit". After a lifetime of stomachaches, I feel insanely healthy and alive. I also love animals and stopped allowing myself the disconnect between animals and meat.

Inspiration:

Chloe Jo at GirlieGirl Army. Years ago someone told me to sign up for her newsletter. It is because of reading her posts, those of her guest bloggers and the amazing work for animals that she does, that I started to consider a cleaner, greener , more meaningful way to live. People trust Chloe Jo and listen to her. This is a tree-hugger in heels, someone who might join the drum-circle but arrive perfectly coiffed.
Get on her newsletter by going to her site. www.GirlieGirlArmy.com

LISTEN: Shop this Eco-Ebay store to benefit GGA's mascot pit, Twiggy who has had extensive cancer surgery and will require expensive treatment!

Katie and Troy from Raven and Crow Studio have devoted their incredible design talents to promoting peace and love [ and fabulousness mind you] for all creatures. Their commitment to veganism and "just enough push but not harsh to turn you away" activism matters.Check out their gorgeous site www.RavenandCrowStudio.com

This moving documentary from PBS on crows is marvelous!
http://video.pbs.org/video/1621910826/

Gert Baraybar-Tray and Julio Baraybar-Tray remind me everyday why I don't eat animals. Their love for one another is awe-inspiring. You will rarely see one with out the other. It was love at first site. They slept next to each other the very day we adopted Gert. They are my kids.

If we all took a small step towards being more aware, we'd really get somewhere.

Brooklyn Flea-gan.

2011-12-05T10:17:00.001-05:00

It's definitely "meat at first site" in the basement of the Brooklyn Flea at One Hanson Place but today, I decided to dig a little deeper. It's like Dee Snyder from Twisted Sister sang "I wanna nosh [ NOSH!]. I want. To. Nosh." I'm like a dog. I'm food motivated. I don't give a hank about your earrings from the 70's or your eco-friendly croched hats, if I can't get snacks. I didn't taste everything but I did ask alot of questions to make sure everything I am listing in this blog post is vegan. After all, most vegetable soups are made w/ chicken stock, like the "beans and greens" one I almost got today. [insert wah wah wah trombone]

After sticking out my bottom lip and staring at my shoes for a few seconds, I cheered myself up with insanely delish sea-salt chocolate from Fine & Raw. Happy but hungry, my girlfriend Maria suggested I ask about the tamales at Solber Pupusas. I was informed that the "bean tamale" has no animal ingredients whatsoever, and I ate. I do wish they had ballsier hot-sauce than Tabasco but alas, it was really really flavorful. Not yet ready to put the breaks on my nosh and still being hungry after sharing my tamale with Maria, I saw "Butternut Squash Soup" on the board at Table Tales. No dairy and no animal stock just rich and creamy vegan soup.

Satiated, happy and full, we headed back upstairs to browse, and by "browse" I mean sample all of the salsa's at the Brooklyn Salsa Company. They have one named for each borough and a seasonal one too. We tasted every single one, a few times, hoping the guy behind the table wouldn't notice us basically "pigging out" while he chatted up 2 foxes from the Bronx. We settled on the seasonal option called The Harvest. A thick blend of Butternut Squash w/ Coconut milk and spices would be great for simmering left overs. Licking our plates later [yeah, that's right], we knew we made the right choice.

There are other things that are vegan that you can get at the flea. Here's a list:

AsiaDog has an Eve's vegan hot dog.
la Esquina offers salsa featured in The New York Times.
Tin Mustard offers mustard created by classically trained chefs.
McClures offers pickled pickles, chips and "Knock Yer Socks Off" Blood Mary Mix.

Get Stuffed.

XO,

Allison

No big whoop, not even a minuscule whoop.

2011-12-01T19:56:00.000-05:00

Ok, so the last time I bought tofu was probably 10 years ago. The mush, the mess, the draining, the water changing...I gave up. I have ordered tofu in restaurants but since taking the vegan plunge, I have found I prefer seitan. Tonight changed all that. As I have done for over 20 years I was strolling the isles at Perelandra and saw WildWood SUPER FIRM Tofu. What the HANK is "Super Firm"?! It's not listed on either one of their sites but I swear I'm not having an acid flash back. I bought it. I have the receipt.

What I did:

I gave the brick of tofu a little squeeze w/ a paper towel. No setting an entire set of Encyclopedia Britannica's on this mutha. A SQUEEZE. No more. No Less.That's it. No big whoop, in fact, no whoop at all, not even a minuscule whoop.

I sliced it thin and browned the strips in canola oil. I removed the browned strips and set 'em aside. They were all crispy-n-stuff. They were kind of delightful.

I sauteed lots of garlic and onion and then added strips of Swiss Chard. Oh, I love this green. So easy to cook w/ a little kick.

I added the tofu back to the pan and poured in some Curry Love Sauce, nutritional yeast, red pepper flakes and let it simmah, for like 5 minutes.

Then I ate it.
Then I told you.

Now YOU do it, and tell ME. Toot! Toot!

Have you always wanted to be an activist? Go Shopping!

2011-11-16T14:04:00.000-05:00

Activism comes in many different forms.

On Saturday Nov. 26 American Express is giving you $25 to be an activist in your very own community. By participating in Small Business Saturday, you'll make conscious purchases that will help keep your 'hood alive and thriving. Tres Belle Spa is proud to be a small Brooklyn business, and super excited to participate in this event.

It hurts us all when a local shop goes out of business. Do something about it, shop locally.

This Sunday, join Tres Belle BFF's Michelle Bridal at "A Brooklyn Wedding".

RSVP www.abklynwedding.com

Fall Into Flowers

2011-11-03T10:59:00.000-04:00

At Tres Belle, we have created an exclusive facial for

you that is so drenched in aromatic goodness,

you'll think you've fallen into flowers.

Tata Harper skincare has been fast-tracked as a must-have for

women who no longer want to sacrifice their health but still want products that

deliver real results derived from the latest science and technology for preventative care, nourishment and anti-aging.

Formulated with world class ingredients handpicked from

exotic locales, the line’s no-nonsense 100% toxin-free purity is chocked full of Plant Power! You might say Tata Harper has taken the granola out of the natural product movement and replaced it with powerful beauty products that work and are glamorous to use.

The line is produced from start to finish at Julius Kingdom, the families 1,200-acre organic farm, in Vermont’s Champlain Valley. Nothing is outsourced.
100% of Tata’s products are proprietary formulas, manufactured and distributed directly from Vermont and are now available to YOU.

The name in GREEN ANTI-AGING,

now at TRES BELLE.

Women: Food, Money and Sex. {and chocolate! C'mon.}

2011-10-28T12:45:00.001-04:00

A One Day Event For Women. Food, Money & Sex.

3 Top Experts:

Tres Belle BFF, Alex Jamieson,

Vinca Heart and Rainbow Geffner.

Sponsored by Topricin, Babeland and Tres Belle Spa.

Life is beautiful and satisfying, when you're on the right path.

Guy Goops, a tale of Manscaping.

2011-10-14T14:39:00.000-04:00

Most "beauty" blogs are written by and for Women. Step up Caballero's! We know you have your "go-to" products, your "goops" and your routines. I will never forget when Dad and I started our spa, he threw his hands into the air proclaiming, "I'm a beauty Guy!". We've got plenty a "tough guy" that show up for laser hair removal, after years of swimming in t-shirts [ we assume they're in swimtrunks too but we have no data to prove this]. We also have skin care fanatics in the form of big burlies who know that great looking and healthy skin is well, SEXY.

Everyone notices your skin. It's hot when you look like you give a shit.

READ THIS: Real Review, Real Man

“Hi, this is a review of Tres Belle from a guy's perspective, for all of you guys out there. Tres Belle already gets superlatives from the ladies - but hey, you men-folk...don't be afraid to spa out. It's true - you *can* get an awesome facial at Tres Belle while keeping your rad machoness intact. The decor is very muted and Zen-cool. No frilly pink bunting in this place. And the music selection is highly eclectic: Massive Attack, Bjork, Herbalizer. So you won't feel like you just entered some Lifetime movie starring Meredith Baxter Birney (no shade though, I loved Kate's Secret as a kid). But that's just art direction. The service Tres Belle provides is amazing. I've been several times now for laser hair removal (no, it's not cool to have Yoda ears, no matter how much of a geek you are) and it was painless and the results were immediate and lasting. As for facials, that's where the money is. No joke, Allison's team is amazing. Last time I went, besides the treatments and thorough cleansing, I also got a KILLER Japanese pressure-point face massage. I'm getting chills just thinking about it. You know you've thought about it before. So go ahead. Just do it. Make an appointment. I guarantee you will become addicted. In a really masculine way.” -Justin Nuttall

Erase Hate

2011-10-11T23:02:00.000-04:00

On October 12, 1998 Matthew Shepard died surrounded by his family. The way he lived his life and the way he died inspired hundreds of thousands to try and turn hate and violence into, acceptance and understanding. Here's a New York Times reference for interviews, events and legislation since Matthew's death in 1998.

The Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act: Signed by President Obama

James Byrd, Jr. was lynched by white supremacists and also died in 1998.

Do you or someone you know have breasts?

2011-10-10T22:06:00.000-04:00

A reminder that we are raising $ for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is the month of October. Please only click the link if you have breasts, know someone with breasts or like saying "breasts" out loud. Thank you.

http://tresbellebuzz.blogspot.com/2011/09/breast-cancer-awareness-month-includes.html

Sinus Sufferers Sip "Silly Soup" OR "'Tis The Season."

2011-10-10T12:45:00.001-04:00

My face hurt when I woke up yesterday. Sinus Season. I'm sure many readers can relate to the first thought that popped into my mind as I wiped my uninsured eyes, "I don't have the money for this". Whether you turn to "at home" remedies because you're really a "hippie at heart" like me, or because you are "forced" to be your own doctor, I'm here to share some things that have worked for me. I've done the research so you don't have to.

Disclaimer: Some of these remedies might not work for you at all. If you feel still icky and need a giggle watch the video at the bottom of the page. A little "Miss Honey" never hurt anyone, as far as I know.

Nasal Lavage, Darling. Sounds fancy.Works.

Acupressure facial massage

Green Tea

Tomato Tea is DELISH and it worked for me. All of the ingredients are STRONG antioxidants. This drink contains honey, which is not vegan. If you're vegan, leave the honey out. Boom.

Source Naturals "Wellness Formula" which I got at my local health food oasis: Perelandra . I take 3 in the morning, 3 in the afternoon and 3 before bed. Note: You will get gas.

Extras:
Eat Organic Fruits and Vegetables, take it from the Mayo Clinic.

Dry Brushing used in conjunction with any of the above will help accelerate the release of toxins.

HEPA Air Purifier

Chiropractic is thought by many to be a great preventative to illness. I see Dr. Lila Wolfe.

VIDEO

You'll go Gaga.

2011-10-06T18:46:00.000-04:00

I'm not only gaga, I'm totally Lady Gaga for "dry brushing". What the hank is dry brushing, you ask? Just what it sounds like but not really what it seems like, which is painful but, it's not. Trust me, I have super sensitive skin. I was looking for an alternative to my popular post "Coffee in the Shower". I was lusting { as we all have at one time or another } for a skin detox type of experience. I always wondered what those long handled blonde-wood brushes were for, all nestled amongst the shower accessories at Park Natural in Brooklyn. They're for dry brushing, a total pre-shower skin trip, Mon! I scurried on home, got into my birthday suit and brushed firmly yet gently, from my feet, up my legs, belly, arms, ALL the while moving the brushstrokes towards my heart, for about 10 minutes. It felt amazing. It was unlike any other sensation I've ever experienced. After treating myself to a long[ish] shower, I felt so clean and fresh. My skin felt "alive" and was like BUTTAH. It glowed. Dry brushing has a ton of benefits besides detoxifying, it may help with cellulite, digestion, premature skin aging and more.
Brusha, Brusha, Brusha.

How a tweet almost lead to a heart-attack

2011-10-04T17:25:00.000-04:00

Sandra Bernhard and I tweeted about Orange Julius. I almost died. I met her before in Diesel, {you know the one across from Bloomies} when Diesel were the "it" pant. They might not be the "it" pant now but, I'll be damned if she and I weren't perusing the racks on Lex some years back.

The term "Real" was a code word in the 70's for Gay. Sylvester sang a HUGE Gay dance anthem called "Mighty Real", which Sandra covered BEAUTIFULLY. The term is also used through-out the film "Paris is Burning".

Yes, I own Tres Belle Spa. Go put on some sunscreen.

xo,

Allison

Breast Cancer Awareness Month, includes photo of actual breasts!

2011-09-27T00:06:00.008-04:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
The American Cancer Society is sponsoring an event called Brooklyn Goes Pink. Different businesses from around the borough, including Tres Belle Spa, are choosing to label an "item" or "Menu offering" as a "pink" item and donating portions of sales from that particular item to help Brooklyn families touched by cancer.
Read about Tres Belle Spa's "pink" ite m, it's described as sensual.
You might also go home with a free gift.

Photo By Robert Mapplethorpe

Check the tap water quality in your 'hood.

2011-09-09T09:11:00.004-04:00

Our bodies are made up of up to 90% water. As we age, the amount decreases due to hormonal changes. If you live in NYC, your tap water might come out looking more like watered down milk than a prancing spring and yet, folks claim that our city water is among the cleanest. According to NYC.Gov, it's "world renowned." Replenishing the bodies water on a daily basis is the easiest "no-brainer" cleanse out there. Water cleans and hydrates from the inside out, keeping skin healthy and young looking. Hydration in the skin "plumps" out fine lines and helps balance oil production, in a sense "normalizing" the skin's tone.

Use this website to check the quality of the water in your area:
What's On Tap?

Sun Damage Manage

2011-09-07T13:33:00.006-04:00

<- BEFORE

AFTER->

No matter how diligent you were this summer about shmearing your 'screens, it's likely you've got some sunspots here and there. Sunspots are a sign of sun damage and may appear on areas of the body that have been exposed to the sun. Sunspots make the skin look aged and dull. If they bother you, there's help! Photofacials are the most effective and quickest way to remedy your spotty situation. BONUS: Photofacials also stimulate cell turn-over, boosting collagen and elastin!

Tres Belle Spa is offering a 10% discount on already discounted Photofacial packages. It doesn't hurt to take a peek! http://www.tresbellespa.com/promo.asp

Gee, your face tastes terrific!

2011-08-18T17:57:00.004-04:00

I know we've covered some great 'fridge items that work well for the skin. Today we taWk: HONEY. Why honey, Hon? You might notice that during the summer your face goes all kinds of bonkers and gets all cranky/zitty/icky? There are many reasons like heat, humidity, and also some sunscreens. Yes, we all try to reach for the good stuff like Skinceuticals but let's face it: when you've been at the beach sweating for hours and the only thing around is the waterproof thick goopy goop in the bright green tube, ya go for it. It IS after all, better to deal with a clogged pore than a bad burn.

Honey works as a natural antiseptic, killing of fungus {there's a fungus among us, sorry! Couldn't resist} and bacteria. It also holds hydration which is essential to keep skin clear and bright. Honey also encourages cell renewal and gentle exfoliation. Hey, if it was good enough for Cleopatra...

"Mothers" of any gender welcome.

2011-04-30T13:25:00.005-04:00

May is Mother's Month at Tres Belle!

What's that mean?! It means our incredible Mom's Day spectacular lasts all month and includes what beauty editors are calling "the most luxurious facial ever" PLUS free samples PLUS a chance to win a free night stay in Brooklyn! Oh and, 10% of proceeds go to the American Cancer Society!

We are sensitive to the fact that Mother's come in all shapes, sizes and genders.

Find out more about celebrating the "Mother" in your life HERE.

Don't chuck your duds.

2011-04-21T16:10:00.003-04:00

Resell 411: How to turn your wardrobe rejects into fast cash.

A guide from Refinery29.

Day & Night, Night & Day.

2011-04-20T21:56:00.007-04:00

Many clients and friends often ask why there are creams for day and creams for night.

Day Cream

Day cream not only keeps the skin hydrated, it also protects. Each day our skin is exposed to free radicals such as pollution and sun. Many day creams and lotions contain SPF but a separate sunscreen applied after your day cream will ensure the best protection on a much broader scale.

Night Cream

It's not just your body that repairs itself at night, it's your skin too. It's the when time the face is most relaxed to allow nutrient rich creams to penetrate deeply below the dermis. Many night products also contain ingredients which might irritate the skin if used during the day.

Pink and Black Tie Gala

2011-01-17T21:24:00.000-05:00

Pink and Black Tie Gala

Gimme $25

2010-11-19T10:48:00.004-05:00

Next Saturday is "Small Business Saturday" sponsored by American Express. What's that mean? It means, Amex will give a $25 statement credit to 100,000 card members who...
Read more...

Tres Belle Wins 3 Awards for 2010!

2010-11-09T13:30:00.004-05:00

Votes tabulated on Citysearch and we walk away with:

*Best Spa in NYC*

*Best Laser Hair Removal Brooklyn*

*Best Facial NYC*

I would like to thank my longtime staff for their dedication to the spa. Everyday our clients are greeted with kindness and professionalism. I appreciate your hard work and loyalty. I am so proud of my team! GO TEAM! Thank You Oksana, Yoshie and Steven.

Oprah says many Women wear the wrong bra size. Tres Belle says most Women use the wrong skin care products.

2010-10-27T17:17:00.008-04:00

Are you wearing the wrong bra size? Oprah, says you just might be!

Chances are you're using the wrong products for your skin too. It's important not only for the look of your skin but also for skin health, that your skin type be properly determined by a professional. Many clients come to Tres Belle Spa assuming that because their skin is shiny, it's oily. Usually these clients have skin that's dehydrated. Proper moisture from a product such as Skinceuticals "Hydrating Gel B5" balances oil production and moisture levels. Balanced skin looks and feels cleaner and clearer. If you'd like a free skin type assessment at Tres Belle please email allison@TresBelleSpa.com with "What's My Skin Type" in the subject line. We're happy to provide you with some free skin care samples to help you achieve great skin health.

Dangerous Beauty

2010-10-24T10:45:00.002-04:00

Permanent Makeup May Cause Permanent Problems

Getting makeup permanent tattooed on your face could be risky.
Published: October 22, 2010
by Julie Rovner
If you can't draw a straight line with an eyeliner to save your life (like me), you may have been tempted by one of those alluring ads for permanent makeup. At least I was tempted until I read an article recently by Consumer Reports medical advisor Orly Avitzur about what can go wrong.
So while you can get your eyelids, brows, lips, even cheeks permanently "made up" at your local spa, nail salon, or doctor's office, what you're really getting is a tattoo.

And just like a body tattoo, Dr. Avitzur writes, "If you have a change of heart, permanent makeup is neither easy, nor inexpensive to remove, and, as it turns out, it's quite risky, too."
How can permanent makeup be risky? Well, to start with, it may not look like what you expected. One unhappy poster on an Internet bulletin board says about her eyebrows: "Mine is uneven (one side thick, one thin), one dark, one light, and the ends are pointy like Spock on Star Trek."

But problems with permanent makeup can literally run more than skin deep. According to both Consumer Reports and the Food and Drug Administration, complications can include infection, allergic reactions, and development of growths such as granulomas and even keloids.
Those, however, are to be expected with any tattoo. More surprising are reports of complications related to the metallic inks in permanent makeup.
The inks can sometimes cause pain or inflammation during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures, and they may have a tendency to oxidize, also known as "rust."

It's not clear how often complications occur. The FDA says it's received more than 150 reports, while the founder of the American Academy of Micropigmentation -- a trade group for permanent makeup providers -- says he can count "only a handful."
If you still want to try it, be sure you find a certified provider.
As for me, I think I'd rather draw a crooked line I can wipe off over than a rusty one I can't. [Copyright 2010 National Public Radio]

Micro-A-GoGo

2010-10-22T16:26:00.002-04:00

Get a fresh face for Fall with Tres Belle's Microdermabrasion special.

Check it:http://www.tresbellespa.com/promo.asp

Coffee in the shower

2010-10-18T17:22:00.005-04:00

Grape Seed Oil is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from premature aging, is effective in fighting acne and it can even shrink varicose veins. The reason we LOVE LOVE LOVE it for the skin is that it penetrates to a clean silky finish. Olive oil is also a wonderful treat for the body and skin but, she greasy! Okay?!

After you finish brewing your morning cuppa, take the warm grinds and mix in a bit of Grape Seed oil and your favorite essential oil. Boom. Body scrub goodness!

Boobies is not a four-letter word

2010-10-14T13:22:00.004-04:00

I am so honored that the incredible Keep A Breast Foundation has asked Tres Belle Spa to host Women newly diagnosed with breast cancer for an afternoon of spirit building and wellness. More details coming soon! Sophia Loren's "keeping a breast", that's for sure!

Vote for a Sis'

2010-10-06T13:14:00.002-04:00

Our family spa is up for some Best Of Citysearch awards! We hope to have your support this year as, we are up against the big guys! Please nominate Tres Belle in the following categories:
BEST Spa
BEST Laser Hair Removal
BEST Facials

All that is needed is your name and email. VOTE HERE

Thanks in advance for helping to support Women owned small business.

Free vet visit, pet required.

2010-10-02T23:32:00.004-04:00

I got a free visit at a new animal hospital on Atlantic Ave. near Hoyt. Good thing too because little Gert had some tummy troubles. Thanks to the good folks at One Love Animal Hospital she's on her way to happier and healthier times. The vets there were so nice they let her come for an exam even though they were still in construction and not set to open for 5 more days. Take your furry for a visit. It's FREE!

This is Gert:

This is the coupon:

Bambi, my hero.

2010-10-01T13:47:00.000-04:00

"Do Gay Americans Deserve To Be Happy?
http://www.outimpact.com/features/news-features/opeds/gay-americans-deserve-happy-commentary

She certainly can "Can-Can"...

2010-09-22T13:18:00.000-04:00

Sippin' on Gin and Soup

2010-09-20T11:02:00.000-04:00

Saveur: 15 Fall Vegetable Soups

The Latest

2010-09-16T10:58:00.002-04:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/The-Latest.html?soid=1102390302859&aid=AP3mWuygj2E

Tres Belle Back to School Spesh, Peep it! Book it!

2010-09-15T14:06:00.004-04:00

Back to School for the kids, back to the SPA for YOU! Take $25 off any facial PLUS get a FREE eyebrow shape! This amazing deal is valid Tues-Fri 11a-3p by appointment.

BOOK YOUR OWN:http://www.tresbellespa.com/contact.asp

Goodie Bag Goodness

2010-09-10T16:06:00.002-04:00

Fashion's Night Out is tonight! Grab that Goodie Bag, and find a Tres Belle treat by attending some glammy get together's Brooklyn style.

Visit our pals at
Bump Brooklyn- the real deal when it comes to cool clothes for the preggers fashion horse!They're participating in a HUGE Bergen Street block party in park Slope. Get boozy near Babeland, they're right next door! We LOVE these Mamas!

theBanquet- Miranda Bennet's dreamy designs and warm energy will make you feel right at home and she's seriously cute as a button! Innovative jewelry designs by Pamela Johnston's Plume will give a little edgy glam to any look and have everyone asking "Where'd ya get that???!" Get in there and taste their house infused tequila! Ole! Find 'em on Atlantic Ave bet. Hoyt/Bond.

Re/Dress- Big girls don't cry or try to be skinny girls at Re/Dress, Deb Malkin's store that celebrates curvy bods sizes 14 and up. Adorable vintage clothing, bags, shoes and an unabashed queer and friendly staff make this the perfect place to party. The first 50 to arrive get a free Goodie Bag! Find 'em on Boerum Place bet. Pacific/Bergen!

Tres Belle Spa now has a Press Page. That's right.

2010-08-27T23:27:00.001-04:00

Tres Belle Petite Medi-Spa - Day Spa Press in Brooklyn, NY

Dance Break!

2010-08-27T14:33:00.000-04:00

Tamara's talking "stuff" about us

2010-08-25T17:14:00.006-04:00

http://semicolonsmile.blogspot.com/2010/05/tres-belle.html?spref=fb

Oogy

2010-08-24T14:03:00.000-04:00

Whales don't belong in pools anymore than elephants belong in the Bronx

2010-08-23T21:42:00.001-04:00

SeaWorld fined $75,000 for safety violations - CNN.com

Touching Strangers

2010-08-23T17:46:00.002-04:00

Richard Renaldi asked 2 or more strangers on the street to pose together for a photo with the stipulation that they must touch each other in some way. The results are pretty moving.

http://www.renaldi.com/photographs/touching/

Refinery29 feature! Hot 'Hood: Our Guide To 5 Must-Stops In Boerum Hill, Brooklyn

2010-08-22T11:56:00.001-04:00

Hot 'Hood: Our Guide To 5 Must-Stops In Boerum Hill, Brooklyn

Just because Bunnies...

2010-08-22T11:33:00.003-04:00

Matthew: You probably get more pimples from all that makeup you're wearing. Maria: Make-up hides my pimples. Matthew: Sorry. {Trust by Hal Hartley}

2010-08-21T15:11:00.007-04:00

Was just thinking about indie filmmaker and cool kid Hal Hartley. I loooved his films and watched them obsessively in my 20's. The scene quoted in the title of this blog post made me think of pimples. Then I thought about a really wonderful review that Tres Belle got praising our acne facial:

Best facials I've EVER had!! GO GO GO!!
2010-04-17 13:19:00.0 Posted by ChevyEvy

Ladies and Gentlemen, the long and exhausting search is over. I?ve been battling with my skin for years. Not in the way that those fresh-faced liars in the Proactiv commercials have ? we?re talking big pores, cystic acne, blackhead central, painful bumps, whiteheads and every now and then, a random sprinkling of acne. It?s tragic. I?ve tried every product ever made (you should see my bathroom) and have gotten facials in quite a few places. For my last birthday, my family asked what I wanted as a gift. I pointed at my face and said, ?Fix it!? After a bit of research, my brother found Tres Belle. I?d booked an appointment with what seemed to be the friendliest staff member. Skeptically, I figured they were just happy to have someone come in and overcharge. My first facial (and each one following) was with Yoshie. I believe God put her on this earth for me. She?s a very sweet and approachable woman filled to the rim with knowledge. I instantly felt comfortable as she told me about her skin issues and how she took care of them. There?s nothing like hearing it from someone who?s been in your shoes. She extracted my face the way I would (if I could) ? getting every single last sucker. She wasn?t lazy about it like most facialists I?ve been to, giving up on certain blemishes or areas. She understood, very organically, how each procedure felt and adjusted her technique to accommodate without my having to say a word. She also talked to me. This is something I?d never experienced with a facialist before. She explained how my skin operates and what I can and should do to make it better. After years of treating my skin the wrong way ? I can finally start preventing it rather than just treating it after the fact! I also really like that no one ever tries to talk you into buying their line of products ? any and every last place I?d ever been to would do it right after my facial. My blackheads are a thing of the past at this point and my skin is clearing up quite noticeably. I?m doing a few more and then moving on to a Photo Facial so that I can get rid of my acne scarring. I cannot wait! The owner, Allison, had a similar story to that of Yoshie?s. I sat with her for well over an hour past my appointment just talking. She gave me a lot of helpful tips about diet and products (things I didn?t know ? after all these years of terrible skin!) She?s so personable and funny. She really cares and does an amazing job at making you feel like you?re important, even when there are other customers in the spa. I?m recommending this place to everyone I know ? whether or not they have acne. They offer a lot of other services that I?m sure once my skin problems disappear, I?ll be trying! GO! GO! GO!

Book one: http://www.tresbellespa.com/contact.asp

Consider donating to the Adrienne Shelly Foundation: http://www.adrienneshellyfoundation.org/home

If tickling a Slow Loris is wrong, I don't wanna be right.

2010-08-21T14:12:00.002-04:00

Dance Break!

2010-08-21T13:47:00.000-04:00

Take a peek and send a buck, Darling.

2010-08-21T12:25:00.004-04:00

Good friend Laura Arena's latest endeavor.

"...My intention is to curate a show exhibiting both Palestinian and Israeli artists together in a venue either in New York City or Berlin, Germany..."

This project will only be funded if at least $800 is pledged by Saturday Sep 18, 5:14pm EDT.

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/324007573/the-middle-east-project

The Kindness of Ravens

2010-08-20T11:16:00.002-04:00

Maria and I recently met smarty-pants design team Troy and Katie from Raven and Crow Studio at a reception at the Nu Hotel Brooklyn. Maria was chosen as 1 of 5 Brooklyn artists to have her work displayed at the hotel. Troy wrote a great piece on the evening including juicy bits about a weepy Marty Markowitz's near melt-down ala Aretha Franklin.

http://kindness.ravenandcrowstudio.com/2010/08/journal-of-movement-of-world_19.html

Now this is an entrance! [ 29 seconds in ]

2010-08-19T10:31:00.000-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WrW0kySM6CE&feature=player_embedded#at=38

The Latest

2010-08-18T15:35:00.000-04:00

http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs015/1102390302859/archive/1103623570179.html

Beauty News NYC gotta 'love jones" for Tres Belle!

2010-08-17T14:28:00.000-04:00

http://www.beautynewsnyc.com/spa/tres-belle-spa-the-gem-of-brooklyn/

If wanting to tickle a Slow Loris is wrong, I don't wanna be right.

2010-03-30T19:29:00.000-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9f-6jygRJk