Slapping on some sunscreen first thing in the morning is going to protect you from the sun’s rays all day long—no matter what the SPF says. Over one million Americans will be diagnosed this year with skin cancer this year due primarily to sun exposure. That’s a number that could come down if had a better understand of how to use sun-blocking products.

Sunscreen does not give you immunity to the sun's damaging rays; sunscreen simply delays burning. All the other often noted aides—hats, shade, protective clothing, and staying out of the sun during peak midday hours should be utilized too. Use a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and use it 365 days a year on all exposed skin, whether it's a cloudy January day or a sunny July one because all solar exposure is cumulative.

Another big misconception is that a sunscreen with a SPF rating of 30 or more will protect you for five hours. Remember, your sunscreen wears of when you sweat, rub against things such as clothing and if you go swimming. That time can be dramatically shortened. Re-apply 20 minutes before you head outside. If you must be in the sun all day long, make sure you stay as covered as possible and apply about 1 ounce of a broad spectrum sunscreen every 2 hours. Re-apply whenever you get out of the water when swimming.

Also remember to teach your children about proper skin protection. Burns suffered early in life increase the chances of skin cancer later on. And always keep babies well covered and in out of direct sunlight as much as possible.

Looking for a relaxing way to get together with friends? Think Spa.

Sometimes there's nothing like spending a relaxing afternoon in a spa, but being able to spend this time with friends makes for a fabulously indulgent, girls day out.

With our new Group Suite its more fun than ever to bring a group of girls to celebrate a birthday, a pre-wedding day (who doesn't need it after the reheasal dinner!) chill out or even take along your mother for some of that long sought after "quality time".

A truly luxurious spa experience is here to be had. Our facilities and professional staff are excellent and will surely make for a fantastic present or surprise.

To find out more, call our Group Coordinator at (408) 354-5901

What makes a hair cut great?

The answer to that question is your ability to style it yourself. The tools you use to recreate the style can make it easier to achieve a salon finish. Tools like a blow-dryer and brush can really make or brake how well you are able to finish the style. Styling products make a huge difference in shine, volume and control.

A great detangler that you can use on wet or dry hair before you go out in the sun and after sun exposure is the Kérastase's Voile Protector.

To keep your hair shiny and healthy during blow drying try the Lait Nutresculpt, it's a hair creme that protects the the hair during the blow drying process.

If your hair needs a little volume, Volumeactive Mousse will plump up the hair from root to ends.

When you want to control unruly curl, the Oléo Relax will smooth and soften the hair, it also works well for a a boost of shine.

When hair is short and you need some definition try the Vinyle Nutri-trisculpt, it enhances and illuminates the style.

USe the Double Force hair spra, too. It gives wonderful hold and shine as well as UV protection.

Hard styling tools to try:

Ionic/ceramic hair dryers use infra-red technology to dry the hair quickly giving the hair an amazing shine.

Try a large ceramic curling iron to create bouncy ringlets and luscious wave, it uses the same infra-red technology that lays the cuticle of the hair flat.

For those of you that like to walk a straight line, a ceramic flat will smooth, flatten and defrizz unruly wavy or curly hair.

Of course the foundation of any great style is your ability to communicate to your stylist what you are looking for, a great consultation will equal great results. Please feel free to speak to any of our wonderful stylists at Aqua Salon!