hands and oils aromatherapy

Shore way to relax

Hands and Oils Aromatherapy shop, Redcar, which opened its doors to the public one year ago, is celebrating its first year by introducing a revolutionary new treatment from the tropics, known as Lava Shell Massage.

Lava Shell Massage is a deeply comforting and relaxing body massage which uses heat to soothe aches and pains providing all the benefits of a hot stone massage with the added bonus of being eco-friendly.

Owner, 43 year old, Tracey Holmes who says, they are the first in the North East to offer this treatment, now provides and fixes acylic and fiberglass nails which she started  at the end of July, and will soon be offering ‘product making classes’ from September .

Assistant Jennifer Cave who started working for Tracey in December 2008 has recently qualified at Redcar College while her daughter Lauren who works Saturdays, is planning to train as a hairdresser.

Lava Shell Massage called 'shell' because the therapist uses naturally self-heating Tiger Clam shells from the sun kissed shores of the South Pacific.

Tracey said: We use  minerals imported from America which produce heat.”

Shells rubbed  smooth by sand, are heated from the inside with the life energy of the ocean.  Each and every Lava Shell is 100% real Tiger Striped Clam Shell, ecologically harvested from the crystal waters of Polynesia.   The shell is composed of calcium carbonate. When activated, heated ions are released to naturally soothe and calm the client.

Lava shells are not powered by external equipment, electricity or batteries. It is powered by an innovative mixture of natural minerals including algae, dried sea kelp blended with Dead Sea salt and essential oils. This blend of ingredients inside the shell, known as Lava Gel, creates a chemical reaction which creates heat and can reach between 120 degrees to 125 degrees and can last  between one or two hours.

The lava shells are made of calcium carbonate, the same material found in our teeth and bones. When the shell heats up, it gives off calcium ions directly onto the skin during the massage process. This helps to regulate the skin's natural renewal process, leaving the skin looking firmer and healthier.

The therapist uses between one and four shells which have a smooth side to deliver a deep and soothing effect. The shells are held in the palm of the therapist's hand while they use light Swedish massage strokes to ease and tease away any muscle tension that may be lingering.

The Enterprise team supported Tracey with funding for her equipment, and business advice.