Shizuka comes to the rescue this winter with tips for caring for dry skin.  Special winter spa packages are available through February 29th, 2008.  Click here for more details.

Tip #1: Hydrate your skin from the inside and outside

Winter weather brings lower levels of humidity and added dryness from indoor heating units.  Combat that itchy winter dryness by first remembering to drink water.  Drinking eight to ten glasses of water daily helps your skin to retain proper moisture.  It can also help in controlling physical fatigue, excessive hunger pangs, and maintaining a proper metabolism.  Hydrate your skin from the outside by using moisture-rich products appropriate for your skin type.  Remember that skin care, like your wardrobe, must transition with the seasons.

Tip #2: Combat dry skin with a body wrap

SHIZUKA new york's body treatment, the Coffee Break Mud Wrap (50 min, $160), exfoliates dead cells as it hydrates the skin, detoxifies the body, and relaxes the mind.  The aroma of ground Arabica coffee is sure to awaken your senses as it soothes your parched winter skin.  This treatment is perfect when followed immediately by a therapeutic massage.

Tip #3: A Hot Stone Massage soothes tense muscles

Volcanic Basalt stones transfer heat deep into tense and cold winter muscles bringing greater circulation and an overall sense of wellbeing.  A Shizuka NY Hot Stone Massage is a soothing winter remedy that is great in combination with a body wrap, or Far Infrared Sauna session (see below).

Tip #4: Detoxify with an Infrared Sauna session

Use of the Shizuka New York Infrared Sauna is free with any facial, massage, and body treatment.  Far infrared radiation penetrates deep into the skin and muscles, helping the body to release toxins.  Long-term studies have shown improvement in conditions as diverse as mild depression and chronic muscle pain.   Without treatment, sauna sessions are $40 and include complimentary towel service and use of Shizuka NY's Swiss steam shower.

Tip #5: Treat yourself with an at-home spa treatment

This easy DIY treatment is great for those prone to "winter itch."  Soothing oatmeal helps to calm dry, irritated skin, while honey and milk provide moisture and brighten the skin.  You can feel confident knowing exactly what went into this homemade body treatment.

Hydrating Oatmeal Body Mask (Click here for printable version)

Ingredients:

1 cup Prepared Oameal (leftover from breakfast is perfect)

1 cup Whole Milk (please do not substitute skim)

3 tbsp Honey

A few drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)

After cleansing your body, restart your shower or bath water on hot, and close the bathroom door to collect steam.  Combine the prepared oatmeal, whole milk, honey, and essential oil in a food processor and process until smooth.  Transfer the mixture to a bowl and microwave for 30 – 60 seconds, until warm, but not scorching.  Return to your bathroom with the heated mask.  Massage the mask into your skin in the steam-filled bathroom and let it sit for up to 5 minutes.  Lower the water temperature to warm, and rinse off.  Lightly towel-dry your body and immediately apply your favorite moisturizer.